Month by month
| Month | Afternoon | Sea | Rain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30.4 °C | 28.4 °C | 5 days | Ideal — one of the best times of year |
| February | 30.6 °C | 28.7 °C | 8 days | Ideal — one of the best times of year |
| March | 30.3 °C | 29.2 °C | 15 days | Possible, with trade-offs |
| April | 30.4 °C | 29.5 °C | 15 days | Possible, with trade-offs |
| May | 29.6 °C | 29.5 °C | 21 days | Unfavourable season |
| June | 27.9 °C | 28.1 °C | 25 days | Unfavourable season |
| July | 26.8 °C | 26.3 °C | 18 days | Possible, with trade-offs |
| August | 26.6 °C | 25.5 °C | 15 days | Possible, with trade-offs |
| September | 27.2 °C | 26.6 °C | 22 days | Unfavourable season |
| October | 28.3 °C | 28 °C | 24 days | Unfavourable season |
| November | 29.5 °C | 29.1 °C | 19 days | Unfavourable season |
| December | 30.3 °C | 28.6 °C | 7 days | Ideal — one of the best times of year |
Before you go
Three things to check once you have picked your dates.
Entry
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check them before booking.
Safety
Some areas advised against
The country is open, but parts should be avoided.
Official advice updated 15 December 2025
Health
Recommended vaccinations, water quality, mosquitoes: advice depends on the country and the season. Some vaccines need time before departure.
Beau Fixe is not a safety or health authority. These notes summarise public advisories and link to their source; only the competent authorities are authoritative. Alert levels: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (gov.uk), Open Government Licence v3.0.
FAQ
Can you swim in Cotonou in March?
The sea averages 29.2°C in March — yes, pleasant swimming.
How hot is Cotonou in March?
Expect 30.3°C in the afternoon and 27°C at night, averaged over the last 10 years.
Does it rain a lot in Cotonou in March?
Around 15 days with rain (≥ 1 mm) in the month — 47% of days.