Abidjan in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Abidjan

26.7°C (80°F) High Temp

21.7°C (71°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season peak with minimal rainfall (0.0mm) making it ideal for walking tours through Dakar and Cocody districts without mud or flooding concerns
Comfortable evening temperatures (21.7°C/71°F) perfect for experiencing Abidjan's renowned nightlife scene in Zone 4 and Marcory areas from 8pm onwards
Harmattan winds from the north provide natural air conditioning during midday heat, reducing the oppressive humidity common in other months
Festival season with Fête du Dipri celebrations in surrounding villages and increased cultural performances at Brazzaville

Considerations

Peak tourist season drives accommodation prices up 40-60% compared to May-June, with beachfront hotels in Grand-Bassam fully booked
High UV index (8) combined with equatorial sun requires constant sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor activities to early morning (6-9am) and evening (5-8pm)
Dust from Harmattan winds can aggravate respiratory conditions and creates hazy conditions affecting photography and distant views of Ébrié Lagoon

Best Activities in August

Ébrié Lagoon Boat Tours and Island Hopping

August's dry conditions and calm lagoon waters create perfect visibility for spotting traditional Akan fishing villages and mangrove ecosystems. Morning tours (7-10am) avoid midday heat while afternoon tours (4-7pm) offer spectacular sunset views over the lagoon. Water levels are optimal for accessing smaller islands unreachable during rainy season.

Booking Tip: Book lagoon tours 5-7 days ahead through certified marine operators at Port Bouët or Treichville marinas. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA per person including guide and traditional lunch. Look for operators with life jackets and radio communication. Peak demand is weekends.

Grand-Bassam Colonial Architecture Walking Tours

August's dry weather eliminates the flooding that often affects Grand-Bassam's historic Quarter France during rainy months. The UNESCO World Heritage colonial buildings are fully accessible, and dust-free conditions are perfect for photography. Early morning tours (7-10am) provide comfortable temperatures for the 2-3 hour walks through former French administrative buildings.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free, but certified guides cost 5,000-8,000 CFA for 3-hour tours. Book through Grand-Bassam Cultural Center or arrange day before arrival. Combine with beach time at nearby Ivory Coast for full-day experience. Weekend guide availability is limited.

Traditional Market Food Tours in Adjamé and Treichville

August brings seasonal fruits like rambutan and African star apple to local markets. Dry conditions mean cleaner market floors and reduced risk of food contamination. Evening market tours (5-8pm) coincide with peak activity when vendors offer samples and prices drop for end-of-day sales. Perfect humidity for street food that doesn't spoil quickly.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours cost 8,000-15,000 CFA including tastings and transport between markets. Book through licensed food tour operators who know vendor relationships and safe eating spots. Avoid unlicensed guides who may take you to overpriced tourist traps. Start at Adjamé Market main entrance.

Banco National Park Wildlife Walks

August's dry season concentrates wildlife around permanent water sources, increasing animal sighting opportunities. Dusty trails are well-marked and accessible without 4WD vehicles needed during rains. Early morning walks (6-9am) offer best chances to spot forest elephants, colobus monkeys, and over 200 bird species before afternoon heat.

Booking Tip: Park entry is 2,000 CFA per person, guided walks cost additional 5,000-10,000 CFA for 3-4 hours. Book guides at park entrance or through Abidjan tourism office. Bring water and snacks as facilities are limited. Best accessed by taxi (30-40 minutes from Niamey).

Contemporary Art Gallery Tours in Zone 4

August coincides with end-of-season exhibitions at major galleries before September closures. Air conditioning provides relief from outdoor heat while exploring Côte d'Ivoire's thriving contemporary art scene. Many galleries host opening receptions on Thursday evenings (7-10pm) with complimentary palm wine and local appetizers.

Booking Tip: Gallery entry is typically free, private curator tours cost 3,000-6,000 CFA per person for 1-2 hours. Visit Galerie Cécile Fakhoury and LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery consecutively as they're within walking distance. Thursday evening openings require advance registration through gallery websites.

Sassandra River Mangrove Kayaking

Low water levels in August reveal extensive mangrove root systems and create calm paddling conditions perfect for beginners. Wildlife activity peaks during dry season as animals concentrate near water sources. Afternoon tours (3-6pm) offer cooler temperatures and dramatic lighting for photography of traditional fishing techniques.

Booking Tip: Full-day kayak tours including transport from Abidjan cost 20,000-35,000 CFA per person with equipment and lunch included. Book through eco-tour operators with proper insurance and safety equipment. Tours run minimum 4 people, maximum 12. Reserve 10-14 days ahead for weekend trips.

August Events & Festivals

Mid to Late August

Festival des Masques (Mask Festival)

Traditional Akan and Baoulé mask performances take place in villages around Abidjan with elaborate dancing and storytelling. Local communities welcome visitors for authentic cultural exchange and traditional palm wine ceremonies.

Throughout August

Marché des Arts Independence Day Celebrations

Extended art market celebrations leading up to Independence Day feature increased vendor participation, cultural performances, and special exhibitions of traditional Ivorian crafts, textiles, and sculptures in Treichville.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

High SPF 50+ sunscreen and zinc oxide stick - UV index reaches 8 and equatorial sun is intense even with 70% humidity creating false sense of coolness

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts in light colors - protects from sun while allowing airflow, essential for 26.7°C (80°F) daytime temperatures

Breathable hiking boots with closed toe - protects feet on dusty Harmattan-affected trails and uneven Abidjan sidewalks

Light rain jacket or packable poncho - despite low rainfall, brief afternoon showers occur 10 days per month and can be intense

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential for lagoon boat trips and outdoor market visits, Harmattan winds can be strong

Insect repellent with 20% DEET minimum - evening activities near Ébrié Lagoon have increased mosquito activity

Electrolyte powder or tablets - 70% humidity combined with walking tours causes significant perspiration and dehydration risk

Dust mask or breathable scarf - Harmattan winds bring Saharan dust that can irritate breathing during outdoor activities

Portable phone charger/power bank - frequent use of GPS and translation apps in 26.7°C (80°F) heat drains batteries quickly

Quick-dry pants in dark colors - hides dust accumulation from Harmattan winds while remaining comfortable in humid conditions

Insider Knowledge

Local Abidjanais avoid outdoor activities between 11am-4pm during August - follow their lead and schedule indoor activities like art galleries and shopping malls during peak heat hours

Taxi prices increase 25-30% in August due to high tourist demand - negotiate fixed prices before entering or use newer ride-sharing apps like Yango which have set rates

Traditional restaurants serve seasonal dishes like sauce graine with fresh palm nuts in August - ask for 'plat du jour' rather than tourist menus for real feels at half the price

Evening breezes start precisely around 6pm near Ébrié Lagoon - time your waterfront dining and walking for maximum comfort and dramatic sunset photography opportunities

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation in Dakar business district instead of residential areas like Cocody or Riviera - business hotels empty on weekends and lack authentic neighborhood restaurants

Wearing synthetic fabrics instead of cotton or linen - polyester becomes unbearably sticky in 70% humidity and shows sweat stains prominently

Planning full-day outdoor itineraries without accounting for midday heat - most attractions close 12-3pm and afternoon heat is oppressive for walking