Humidity can be the invisible villain in our lives, turning a pleasant breeze into a sticky ordeal and our much-loved hairdos into a frizzed-out mess. But for some cities, high humidity isn’t just a passing annoyance— it’s a way of life. Whether you’re a weather enthusiast curious about the extremes or a traveler planning a unique escape, the high humidities found in these cities are sure to captivate and even challenge you.
Table summarizing the top 10 most humid cities in the world
| City | Country | Average Yearly Humidity (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Libreville | Gabon | 84.1 |
| Balikpapan | Indonesia | 85.4 |
| Macapá | Brazil | 84.5 |
| Singapore | Singapore | 82 |
| Colombo | Sri Lanka | 79 |
| Port Moresby | Papua New Guinea | 78 |
| Cartagena | Colombia | 84 |
| Paramaribo | Suriname | 83 |
| Khulna | Bangladesh | 76 |
| Lagos | Nigeria | 88 |
1. Libreville, Gabon
Libreville is ranked first on our list in the equatorial zone of West Africa, ensuring a consistently high humidity level. With an average yearly humidity of over 84.1%, it’s no wonder that tourists often refer to the climate as oppressive due to its heavy, damp feel. Here, the humidity combines with the area’s staggering biodiversity to create a lush, rainforest-like environment that is the very definition of equatorial.
2. Balikpapan, Indonesia
Located on the eastern coast of Borneo, Balikpapan is a major seaport that experiences a tropical rainforest climate with spectacular levels of humidity. The city is the gateway to an extremely humid paradise and records annual humidity levels exceeding 85.4%. This makes for both vibrant natural scenery and living conditions that necessitate a close relationship with dehumidifiers.
3. Macapá, Brazil
Serving as the capital of the Amapá state, Macapá sits precisely on the equator, ensuring the city faces can reach an average humidity of around 84.5%. The equatorial heat is moderated somewhat by the Amazon Rainforest and the Amazon River, though this doesn’t offer much respite. With such high humidity, be prepared for hot, wet weather throughout the year.
4. Singapore
Famously known as the “Lion City” or the “Garden City,” Singapore’s lush environs are primarily due to high humidity. With annual averages hovering around 82%, this tiny island at the tip of the Malay Peninsula is a top contender for the world’s most humid locales. This high humidity and consistent year-round temperatures mean that an umbrella is as essential as your wallet when heading out.
5. Colombo, Sri Lanka
The largest city on the teardrop-shaped island at the southern tip of India, Colombo encounters massive humidity throughout the year. The average annual humidity is over 79%, but this level can skyrocket during monsoon periods. The effect on Colombo’s colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage is palpable, as the city takes on an almost mystic quality in the mist and rain.
6. Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
The capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby, offers a unique blend of diverse cultures and high humidity, reaching over 78% on average. Located along the southeastern coast of the island of New Guinea, it’s also one of the closest cities to the rainforests of the region. This means lush greenery, spectacular wildlife, and, of course, a muggy atmosphere.
7. Cartagena, Colombia
A hot spot for history, culture, and yes, humidity, Cartagena is a city on the northern coast of Colombia known for its stunning colonial architecture and as a UNESCO World Heritage site. With an annual humidity level typically over 84%, visitors can expect to experience tropical maritime air and an endless summer wardrobe.
8. Paramaribo, Suriname
Paramaribo, the lively capital of the small South American country of Suriname, is enriched by its colonial Dutch and English influences, and of course, its high humidity. Humidity levels here exceed 83% on an annual basis, framing its iconic pastel-colored wooden structures with a film of tropical moisture that’s sure to leave an indelible mark on any visitor.
9. Khulna, Bangladesh
Located on the banks of the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers and at the intersection of other canals, Khulna is known as the gateway to the Sundarbans, the world’s largest tidal forest. With an annual humidity averaging over 76%, Khulna exemplifies the intense humidity found in the Ganges Delta area, creating an environment that is both challenging and spectacular.
10. Lagos, Nigeria
Rooted in a rich historical and cultural background, Lagos is Nigeria’s largest city and one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. It also ranks as one of the world’s most humid cities due to its location near the equator, with yearly humidity levels exceeding 88%. The humidity, combined with Lagos’ urban hustle and bustling metropolis, creates a unique blend of sticky and vibrant atmosphere.
Regardless of the high humidity challenges, each of these cities offers an unmatched, vibrant, sultry life experience. From the rich cultures and lush ambiance to how the residents and wildlife have adapted, these cities are a testament to the resiliency of communities living in the most humid climates. If you’re a traveler searching for unique environments or a weather enthusiast fascinated by the planet’s extremes, consider exploring these top 10 cities for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
