Conakry in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Conakry

32°C (89°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) total, making it ideal for exploring outdoor markets and walking tours around the Peninsula and Kaloum districts
Harmattan winds from the Sahara create clearer skies and better visibility, perfect for photography at Mount Kakoulima (1,007m/3,304ft) and coastal viewpoints
Cultural calendar peaks with traditional wrestling matches and local celebrations before Ramadan begins, offering real feels at Stade du 28 Septembre
Hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to December holiday pricing, with availability improving significantly after European winter holiday departures

Considerations

Harmattan winds bring dust from the Sahara, reducing air quality and requiring frequent cleaning of camera equipment and electronics
Afternoon temperatures can feel oppressive at 32°C (89°F) with 70% humidity, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable without proper hydration
Limited rainfall means dust accumulation on roads and in markets, particularly affecting those with respiratory sensitivities

Best Activities in February

Peninsula Markets and Colonial Architecture Walking Tours

February's dry weather makes walking the Peninsula's steep streets comfortable in early morning hours. The Marché Niger and Marché Kaloum are at their most busy, with seasonal produce like mangoes and cashews at peak quality. Minimal rainfall means cobblestone streets are safe to navigate, and colonial buildings offer clear photo opportunities without weather interference.

Booking Tip: Book guided walking tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed local guides. Typical cost ranges from 150,000-300,000 GNF per person for 3-4 hour tours. Start tours by 8am to avoid afternoon heat. Current tour options available in booking section below.

Mount Kakoulima Day Hiking

Clear Harmattan skies provide exceptional visibility from Mount Kakoulima's 1,007m (3,304ft) summit. February's cooler morning temperatures around 23°C (73°F) make the 6-8 hour trek manageable. Dry trails reduce slip hazards, and you'll encounter seasonal wildflowers that only bloom during the dry months.

Booking Tip: Arrange through certified mountain guides 10-14 days ahead. Costs typically range 400,000-600,000 GNF including transport from Conakry. Groups of 4+ get better rates. Essential to start pre-dawn for summit sunrise. See current mountain tour options below.

Iles de Los Island Hopping

February's calm seas and clear skies create ideal conditions for boat trips to Roume, Tamara, and Corail islands. Water visibility reaches 15-20m (49-66ft) for snorkeling, and beaches are accessible without weather delays. Fewer storms mean reliable daily departures from Conakry Port.

Booking Tip: Book island excursions 7-10 days ahead through licensed boat operators at Port Autonome. Full-day trips cost 250,000-400,000 GNF per person including lunch. Morning departures (8-9am) offer calmest seas. Current island tour availability in booking widget below.

Traditional Wrestling Events and Cultural Experiences

February marks peak wrestling season before religious observances begin. Weekly matches at Stade du 28 Septembre showcase authentic Guinean culture. The cooler evening temperatures make outdoor events comfortable, and clear skies ensure events run on schedule without rain delays.

Booking Tip: Wrestling matches occur Saturdays and Sundays, tickets 20,000-50,000 GNF at venue. Cultural center performances book up quickly - reserve 1 week ahead. Evening events start 6pm when temperatures drop to 25°C (77°F). Check current cultural event availability below.

Conakry Grand Mosque and Religious Architecture Tours

February's clear air improves visibility of architectural details at Conakry this destination and surrounding Islamic monuments. Lower humidity makes walking between sites more comfortable, and stable weather ensures sites remain open daily. Pre-Ramadan period offers insights into local preparation rituals.

Booking Tip: Religious site tours require modest dress and advance arrangement with local Islamic cultural guides. Tours cost 100,000-200,000 GNF for half-day experiences. Best visited 9-11am or after 4pm. Respect prayer times - Friday midday visits not recommended. Current cultural tours listed below.

Guinean Cuisine Cooking Classes and Market Tours

February brings peak season for local ingredients - fresh mangoes, bissap flowers for juice, and dried fish from coastal villages. Market tours in dry weather let you explore spice vendors and ingredient sources comfortably. Cooking classes can use outdoor spaces thanks to minimal rainfall.

Booking Tip: Book cooking experiences 5-7 days ahead through cultural centers or hotels offering culinary programs. Classes range 200,000-350,000 GNF including market tour and meal. Morning market tours (7-9am) offer freshest ingredients before heat builds. See current culinary experiences below.

February Events & Festivals

Mid to Late February

Pre-Ramadan Traditional Wrestling Championships

Major wrestling tournaments featuring Guinea's top athletes competing at Stade du 28 Septembre. Accompanied by traditional drumming, dancing, and ceremonial dress displays. This is Guinea's most popular sport shown with authentic cultural pageantry.

Throughout February

Harmattan Festival Cultural Celebrations

Local communities celebrate the clear skies and cooler temperatures brought by Harmattan winds. Features traditional music performances, storytelling, and seasonal food preparations unique to this dry period.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

N95 or KN95 dust masks - Harmattan winds carry Sahara dust reducing air quality, especially for those with respiratory issues

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts - protect from UV index 8 sun while staying cool in 32°C (89°F) temperatures

Quality moisturizer and lip balm - 70% humidity combined with dust creates dehydrating conditions for skin

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - dusty cobblestones in markets and Peninsula streets become slippery

Portable water bottles (2 liters minimum) - high temperatures require 3-4 liters daily hydration for outdoor activities

Light rain jacket - despite dry season, 10 rainy days means occasional afternoon showers lasting 30-45 minutes

Electrolyte supplements or rehydration salts - preventing heat exhaustion during market walks and hiking

Camera lens cloths and protective cases - dust accumulates quickly on electronics requiring frequent cleaning

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 with reflected sun from concrete surfaces

Quick-dry pants and moisture-wicking undergarments - comfortable for humidity and unexpected rain

Insider Knowledge

Start outdoor activities by 7am - locals avoid midday heat between 11am-4pm, using this time for indoor socializing or rest

Buy mangoes and cashews in February when they're at peak ripeness and lowest prices - street vendors offer best quality near Marché Niger

Book accommodations in Kaloum district over Peninsula for February - better air circulation reduces dust accumulation and offers easier market access

Carry small denomination bills (5,000-20,000 GNF notes) - market vendors and taxi drivers rarely have change for large bills, especially during dry season when tourism drops

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating dust impact - tourists often skip dust masks and struggle with respiratory irritation, dirty clothes, and camera equipment damage

Scheduling outdoor activities during midday heat - 32°C (89°F) with 70% humidity becomes dangerous without proper preparation and hydration

Overpacking rain gear - seeing '10 rainy days' leads to excessive rain preparation, but February showers are brief and light compared to wet season