Lome in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Lome

33°C (92°F) High Temp

25°C (77°F) Low Temp

15 mm (0.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season peak - February has the lowest rainfall of the year at just 15 mm (0.6 inches), perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration
Optimal temperature balance - daily highs of 33°C (92°F) are hot but manageable, while evening lows of 25°C (77°F) create comfortable conditions for night markets and coastal walks
Clear visibility for photography - minimal dust and rain create exceptional clarity for capturing Lomé's coastline and architectural contrasts
Festival season convergence - February coincides with traditional Ewe cultural celebrations and the tail end of harmattan season activities

Considerations

Peak tourist pricing - February's optimal weather drives accommodation rates up 40-60% compared to rainy season months
Intense midday UV exposure - UV index of 8 requires serious sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor activities to early morning (6-9am) and late afternoon (4-7pm)
Harmattan dust residue - while the worst of the dry dusty winds from the Sahara are ending, occasional hazy conditions can still affect sensitive respiratory systems

Best Activities in February

Grand Marché and Akodessewa Fetish Market Cultural Tours

February's dry conditions make navigating Lomé's sprawling markets comfortable without mud or flooding. The 70% humidity is manageable in early morning hours (7-10am) when vendors are setting up and locals shop before the heat peaks. This is prime season for photographing traditional crafts and textiles without rain damage concerns.

Booking Tip: Book cultural walking tours 5-7 days ahead through certified guides. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA francs ($25-40) for 3-4 hours. Look for guides registered with Togo Tourism Ministry. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Lake Togo and Togoville Excursions

February's minimal rainfall ensures Lake Togo is at stable levels with clear waters perfect for pirogue rides and fishing village visits. The 25°C (77°F) morning temperatures make the 35 km (22 mile) journey from Lomé comfortable, and you'll avoid the muddy conditions that plague the lake region during rainy months.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost 20,000-35,000 CFA francs ($32-56) including transport and boat rides. Book through hotel concierges or licensed operators 3-5 days ahead. Tours run 8am-5pm to avoid afternoon heat. See current options in booking section below.

Kpalimé Mountain and Waterfall Hiking

February's dry season provides the safest conditions for hiking the 120 km (75 mile) route to Togo's mountainous region. Waterfalls are still flowing from December rains but trails are dry and stable. The cooler mountain temperatures offer relief from coastal humidity, with highs around 28°C (82°F) at 500 m (1,640 ft) elevation.

Booking Tip: Multi-day excursions cost 45,000-75,000 CFA francs ($72-120) including transport and accommodation. Book 10-14 days ahead as February is peak hiking season. Essential to use experienced guides familiar with trail conditions. See current tour options in booking section below.

Aneho Colonial Architecture and Beach Tours

The historic former capital 45 km (28 miles) east of Lomé is perfect for February exploration. Dry conditions preserve the delicate colonial German and French buildings for photography, while the coastal location provides sea breezes that moderate the 33°C (92°F) temperatures. Beach access is optimal with calm Atlantic conditions.

Booking Tip: Day tours typically cost 18,000-28,000 CFA francs ($29-45) including transport and guide. Book 3-7 days ahead through licensed cultural heritage guides. Combine with beach time for full-day experiences. See current options in booking section below.

Atlantic Coast Fishing Village Experiences

February's calm seas and dry weather create ideal conditions for visiting traditional fishing communities along Lomé's coast. Morning fish market activities (5-8am) coincide with cooler temperatures, and you can witness traditional net-making and boat-building without rain disruptions. The 15 mm (0.6 inches) monthly rainfall means coastal roads remain accessible.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours cost 12,000-20,000 CFA francs ($19-32) and should start by 6am to catch fishing boat arrivals. Book through community-based tourism operators 2-3 days ahead. See current options in booking section below.

Vodou Temple and Spiritual Site Visits

February's stable weather conditions provide respectful visiting opportunities to active spiritual sites around Lomé. The dry season coincides with important ceremonial periods in Ewe traditional calendar, offering authentic cultural experiences. Clear skies and minimal rain ensure ceremony schedules remain unchanged.

Booking Tip: Spiritual tours cost 15,000-30,000 CFA francs ($24-48) and require advance permission arrangements. Book 7-14 days ahead through cultural centers or certified guides familiar with protocol. Afternoon visits (3-6pm) often preferred by communities. See current options in booking section below.

February Events & Festivals

Mid February

Ewe Traditional New Year Celebrations

Many Ewe communities celebrate traditional new year ceremonies in February, featuring drumming, dancing, and ancestral rituals. These authentic cultural events occur in villages around Lomé and offer genuine insight into local spiritual practices.

Late February

Harmattan Season Closure Festivals

Local communities celebrate the end of the dusty harmattan season with thanksgiving ceremonies and community gatherings. These mark the transition into the most pleasant weather period of the year.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and coastal reflection intensifies exposure

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts - protect from sun while staying cool in 70% humidity

Quality sunglasses with UV protection - essential for bright coastal conditions and occasional harmattan dust

Light rain jacket or umbrella - while only 15 mm (0.6 inches) expected, brief afternoon showers still occur 10 days

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes - for market visits and protection from occasional dust and debris

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes remain active in evening hours despite dry conditions

Electrolyte replacement tablets - important for maintaining hydration in 33°C (92°F) daytime heat

Light scarf or bandana - useful for occasional dust protection and respectful temple/market visits

Portable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial with high temperatures and moderate humidity

Insider Knowledge

Shop at Niamey between 7-9am when temperatures are coolest at 25°C (77°F) and vendors offer best selection before tourist crowds arrive

Locals take afternoon rest from 12-3pm during peak heat - plan indoor activities like museums or restaurant meals during these hours

February is mango season in Togo - street vendors sell perfectly ripe local varieties for 200-500 CFA francs that are unavailable other times of year

Motorcycle taxi (zémidjan) fares increase 20-30% during February peak season - negotiate prices beforehand and expect 1,000-1,500 CFA francs for cross-city trips

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing between 11am-3pm when temperatures peak at 33°C (92°F) and UV index is highest - schedule these activities for early morning or late afternoon

Assuming all of February is completely dry - those 10 rainy days can still bring sudden 20-30 minute downpours that flood streets temporarily

Booking accommodation last-minute - February's optimal weather means hotels fill up and prices increase 40-60% compared to rainy season rates