Think you can handle the heat? The earth is home to some scorching hotspots that will leave you sweating and sizzling.
How do you define the ‘hottest’ country? Is it the one that boasts the highest single temperature ever recorded, like Kuwait?Or perhaps the country with the highest temperature in modern history, such as the United States?Maybe it’s the place with the highest average summer heat?
The debate could go on, but for this article, we’ll focus on countries with the hottest average year-round temperatures over the past 30 years. Join us on a sweltering tour around the globe as we uncover the world’s hottest countries.
Average Temperature (C)
Top 10 Hottest Countries
Let’s take a look at ‘top ten’ list of the hottest countries in the world:
Gambia
Gambia#10 in Hottest Countries
Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa. With its subtropical climate, the temperature remains consistently warm throughout the year. The endless sunshine, sandy beaches, and vibrant local culture make it an attractive destination for sun-seeking nomads.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
27.97°C / 82.35°F
Qatar
Qatar#9 in Hottest Countries
This small yet affluent Middle Eastern nation is known for its scorching desert climate. Summer temperatures often soar above 45°C (113°F). Qatar's modern cities, like Doha, offer air-conditioned comfort as an oasis amidst the heat.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.02°C / 82.44°F
Palau
Palau#8 in Hottest Countries
This tiny tropical island paradise in the Pacific Ocean boasts a consistently warm climate year-round. Palau has diverse marine life and lush, unspoiled landscapes. It’s the perfect getaway for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure in a warm setting.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.04°C / 82.47°F
Bahrain
Bahrain#7 in Hottest Countries
An archipelago in the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain experiences high temperatures throughout the year. It has a unique blend of ancient history and modern architecture and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. In addition, it’s a fascinating melting pot for digital nomads who don't mind the heat.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.23°C / 82.81°F
Mauritania
Mauritania#6 in Hottest Countries
Mauritania is located in West Africa with a largely desert climate and soaring temperatures. Are you adventurous enough to brave the relentless heat? If so, its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.34°C / 83.01°F
Djibouti
Djibouti#5 in Hottest Countries
Djibouti is known for its sweltering climate and is between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Despite the heat, this small nation offers striking landscapes. It might be the otherworldly Lake Assal and a strategic location that attracts international business.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.38°C / 83.08°F
Tuvalu
Tuvalu#4 in Hottest Countries
Tuvalu is a remote Polynesian island nation. It’s not only one of the smallest countries in the world but also one of the hottest. However, its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters make it an enticing destination if you don't mind the tropical heat.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.45°C / 83.21°F
Senegal
Senegal#3 in Hottest Countries
This West African nation's warm climate is due to its location near the equator. Senegal's mix of bustling cities, such as Dakar, offers a diverse and culturally rich experience for digital nomads.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
8.65°C / 83.57°F
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso#2 in Hottest Countries
Another West African country, Burkina Faso, is characterized by its hot, arid climate. Despite the heat, lively festivals and warm, hospitable people make it an intriguing destination.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.71°C / 83.68°F
Mali
Mali#1 in Hottest Countries
Claiming the title of the hottest country in the world, Mali's unforgiving climate doesn't deter the resilient spirit of its people. This landlocked West African nation offers a rich history and vibrant culture. Stunning landscapes are well worth exploring despite the heat.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
28.83°C / 83.89°F
🥤 Staying cool and hydrated ⏰ Adjusting your work schedule 🏠 Choosing the right accommodation 👕 Dressing for the climateAdapting to Extreme Heat: Tips and Tricks
Always have a water bottle nearby, and remember to take regular sips to stay hydrated. Choose light, refreshing beverages instead of heavy, sugary drinks.
Try to work during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late evenings. Plus, take breaks during the hottest hours to prevent heat exhaustion.
Prioritize places with good ventilation, air conditioning, or ceiling fans. Ensure you have sufficient shade, and consider buying blackout curtains to keep the heat out.
Look for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Wearing loose-fitting clothing in light colors can keep you cool when it's hot outside.
World’s Hottest Country
Two African nations, Mali and Djibouti, emerge as the frontrunners in the race for “World’s hottest country.”
Mali is nestled in the vast expanses of the Sahara Desert, with an average temperature of 83.1 degrees Fahrenheit (28.4 degrees Celsius). This temperature makes it one of the hottest spots on the continent. Meanwhile, the tiny East African nation of Djibouti claims a yearly average temperature of 83.3 degrees Fahrenheit (28.5 degrees Celsius). So Djibouti earns the reputation of being the hottest country in the world.
Conclusion
These are the hottest destinations in the world, along with tips on how to cope with the heat. Who knows, when life takes you to one of these destinations.
I’ve only had a chance to visit two of the countries on the list: Mali and Qatar.
It was December when I went to Qatar. Supposedly it was the best month to be there, as the heat is the most bearable. I still recall the heat hitting my face like a slap every time I left my hotel. Nevertheless, they had managed to make a quite entertaining city in the middle of all that heat.
There are a few tips to make life easy in these sweltering hotspots. Embracing a location-independent lifestyle and adapting to the heat can make the experience even more rewarding.
If it’s been an interesting read for you, let’s check out these articles as well:
Hottest States in the US in 2023
Best Countries to Live in 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot is the hottest country on Earth?
Mali, the hottest country on Earth, has an average annual temperature of 28.83°C / 83.89°F. While this may not seem excessively hot, it's important to remember that these are overall averages, including day and night temperatures across all seasons. For instance, Timbuktu, Mali, sees daily highs averaging between 97°F and 108°F from March to mid-October.
Where are the Earth's hottest countries?
Generally, countries closer to the equator experience warmer year round average heat. As one moves further from the equator towards the poles, the seasonal weather variation and range of temperatures increase, including colder winters.
Why are temperate countries cooler?
Countries near the equator experience hotter temperatures due to the Earth's shape and axial tilt. The spherical nature of Earth causes sunlight to strike the equator more directly, concentrating heat in a smaller area. The axial tilt also affects the angle at which sunlight strikes different parts of the Earth, resulting in the changing seasons.
Do changes in climate correspond to national borders?
Geographical features, not political boundaries, influence climate and weather patterns. National borders have no direct impact on climate, weather, or temperature. Climates can vary greatly between and within countries, particularly in large nations like the United States or Russia.
Are the world's hottest countries getting hotter?
The entire planet is getting hotter, which means every country, from the hottest to the coolest, will likely see a rise in average annual temperatures. Recent studies from organizations like NASA and the NOAA have provided substantial evidence of human-induced global warming and climate change. However, many questions still remain about how much temperatures will rise and how we can address these challenges.
What are the hottest countries in the world?
The hottest countries in the world are typically located in equatorial regions or desert areas. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, Sudan, and Iraq are known to have some of the highest temperatures in the world.
Which country has the hottest temperature ever recorded?
The hottest temperature ever recorded was in Furnace Creek Ranch, Death Valley National Park, California, United States, where a temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius) was recorded on July 10, 1913.
What is the average yearly temperature in the hottest countries?
The average yearly temperature in the hottest countries varies, but it is generally around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. The extreme temperatures can lead to challenges for people living in these areas, particularly regarding agriculture and water availability.
Do the hottest countries experience extreme weather events?
Yes, the hottest countries often experience extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and sandstorms. In some areas, high temperatures and drought can lead to wildfires, while heavy rainfall can cause flash floods in others.
What are the summer temperatures like in the hottest countries?
Summer temperatures in the hottest countries can reach extreme levels, with some areas experiencing temperatures well above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This can make it easier for people in a hot country to go about their daily activities if they take precautions to stay cool.
What is the hottest capital city in the world?
There is no single "hottest country" in the world, as many countries experience similar high temperatures. However, some countries with the highest average yearly temperatures include Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, all of which have capital cities with hot climates. The capital city of Kuwait is Kuwait City, the capital of the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi, and the capital of Bahrain is Manama.
What are the five hottest countries in the world?
- Mali
- Burkina Faso
- Senegal
- Tuvalu
- Djibouti
Which is the hottest country in Asia?
Ready for a sizzle? In Asia, Kuwait takes the crown as the hottest country. It's not just hot; it's like Mother Nature cranked up the thermostat to the max! If you're planning a trip there, better pack light clothes and a lot of sunscreen. Maybe even a portable fan!
Is Australia hotter than Africa?
Africa, specifically Ethiopia, Sudan, and Mali, often experiences extreme heat. However, Australia's highest temperatures don't typically reach the same highs as the hottest parts of Africa. So, while Australia has its fair share of hot spots, Africa still wins the 'who's hotter' contest.
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