Djibouti in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Djibouti
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak diving season at Moucha Island - water visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) with calm seas and water temperatures of 26°C (79°F)
- Optimal weather for Lac Assal visits - dry conditions make the 155 m (509 ft) below sea level descent comfortable with minimal mud on access roads
- Whale shark season in Gulf Of Tadjoura - February offers 70% sighting probability with cooler morning water temperatures bringing plankton closer to surface
- Perfect conditions for Ardoukoba Volcano hiking - cool early morning temperatures of 18-20°C (64-68°F) before 9am, with clear visibility across the Afar Depression
Considerations
- Extremely high UV exposure - index reaches 10+ daily with minimal cloud cover, requiring constant sun protection and limiting midday outdoor activities
- Accommodation prices peak 40-60% higher than low season due to European winter escape tourism and diving season demand
- Strong Khamsin desert winds (40-60 km/h or 25-37 mph) create sandstorms that can disrupt domestic flights and make Lake Abbe visits uncomfortable
Best Activities in February
Gulf of Tadjoura Whale Shark Diving
February marks peak whale shark season with 70% encounter rates. Water temperature of 26°C (79°F) and excellent 25-30 m (82-98 ft) visibility make this the year's best diving month. Morning departures (6-7am) avoid afternoon winds and offer calmer surface conditions. The convergence of Red Sea currents brings nutrient-rich waters that attract these giants near Djibouti City.
Lac Assal Salt Lake Expeditions
February's dry weather provides optimal road conditions to reach Africa's lowest point at 155 m (509 ft) below sea level. Morning temperatures of 25-28°C (77-82°F) make the descent comfortable before heat intensifies. Salt formations are most photogenic with clear skies, and the access road from Route Nationale 1 remains passable throughout the month.
Moucha Island Marine Excursions
Peak season for this coral island 7 km (4.3 miles) off Djibouti port. February offers the calmest seas with 1-2 m (3-6 ft) waves and crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling over pristine coral reefs. Water temperature reaches ideal 26-27°C (79-81°F). Regular ferry service operates daily with 45-minute crossings.
Lake Abbe Alien Landscape Tours
February's clear skies showcase this otherworldly landscape of limestone chimneys and flamingo colonies. Early morning visits (sunrise at 6:30am) offer cooler temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and dramatic lighting. The 250 km (155 miles) drive from Djibouti City requires 2-3 days for proper exploration including overnight camping under exceptional star visibility.
Djibouti City Cultural Walking Tours
February's bearable morning temperatures make exploring the capital's blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Somali-Afar culture comfortable before 10am. The Central Market is most active during cooler hours, and the historic European Quarter offers shaded walking routes. Afternoon exploration focuses on air-conditioned venues like the National Museum.
Ardoukoba Volcano Hiking
February offers ideal conditions for exploring this young volcano formed in 1978. Early morning hikes (start 6am) provide temperatures of 18-20°C (64-68°F) with clear views across the Afar Depression toward Ethiopia. The 2-hour moderate hike covers 4 km (2.5 miles) over relatively easy terrain to reach the crater rim at 298 m (978 ft) elevation.
February Events & Festivals
Festival of Nomadic Cultures
Annual celebration of Afar and Somali traditions featuring traditional dance, poetry, and camel racing. Held in various locations around Djibouti City with the main venue at Stade du Ville. Features traditional coffee ceremonies, handicraft exhibitions, and cultural performances.