Peter MokoenaThe hottest places in the world are usually sun-scorched deserts, but you would be surprised to find that tropical islands, lush forests, and plains all feature in this list of cooking hot places on earth. In fact, some countries experience heat not just seasonally—but year-round.
These are the places where the sun reigns supreme, the air shimmers, and the climate shapes daily life. Whether it’s the dry winds of the Sahara or the humid haze of the Pacific, the world’s hottest countries offer a fascinating glimpse into how geography and weather collide.
Interestingly, the heat defines culture, lifestyle, and resilience. Whether you’re chasing warmth or simply curious about global climate extremes, this list is your passport to the planet’s most sun-drenched destinations.
Top 50 Hottest Countries In The World
1. Burkina Faso 🇧🇫
Burkina Faso tops the list as the hottest country in the world, with an average annual temperature of 29.94°C. Located in West Africa, it’s landlocked and largely flat, with dry winds from the Sahara intensifying the heat—especially during the Harmattan season. The climate is semi-arid, and rainfall is scarce. Despite the extreme temperatures, the people of Burkina Faso have adapted with traditional architecture, seasonal farming, and cultural resilience that thrives under the sun.
2. Mali 🇲🇱
Mali ranks second, with an average temperature of 29.69°C. Situated deep in the Sahara’s embrace, Mali experiences relentless heat, especially in its northern desert regions. The thermal equator passes through the country, contributing to its scorching climate. Southern Mali is more humid and green, but the north remains arid and sun-drenched. Traditional mud-brick buildings and flowing garments help locals cope with the heat. Mali’s climate shapes its agriculture, architecture, and daily rhythms.
3. Aruba 🇦🇼
Aruba, a Caribbean island near Venezuela, enjoys year-round warmth with an average temperature of 29.63°C. Its dry climate and constant trade winds make it one of the hottest yet most comfortable places to live or visit. Unlike tropical rainforests, Aruba’s landscape is desert-like, with cacti and rugged coastlines. Tourism thrives here, thanks to its sunny skies and turquoise waters. Aruba’s heat is tempered by breezes, making it a paradise for sun-seekers.
4. Senegal 🇸🇳
Senegal’s average temperature of 29.41°C places it among the hottest countries globally. Located in West Africa, it features a mix of dry Sahel and humid coastal zones. The capital, Dakar, benefits from Atlantic breezes, but inland regions endure intense heat. Senegal’s climate supports drought-resistant crops and a vibrant culture adapted to the sun. Traditional clothing, shaded markets, and siesta hours reflect how locals live in harmony with the heat.
5. Tuvalu 🇹🇻
Tuvalu, a tiny island nation in the Pacific, has an average temperature of 29.37°C. Its equatorial location ensures constant warmth, with minimal seasonal variation. Surrounded by ocean, Tuvalu experiences high humidity and intense sun. The heat is softened by sea breezes, but rising temperatures and sea levels pose challenges. Tuvalu’s culture is deeply tied to the ocean, and its people have adapted with open-air homes and communal living that embrace the tropical climate.
6. Djibouti 🇩🇯
Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa, averages 29.34°C annually. Its arid landscape and low elevation contribute to extreme heat, especially in summer when temperatures can exceed 41°C. Coastal areas offer slight relief, but the interior is harsh and dry. Djibouti’s climate is shaped by desert winds and minimal rainfall. Despite the heat, it’s a strategic hub with a resilient population that has adapted through architecture, hydration rituals, and heat-conscious daily routines.
7. United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪
The UAE averages 29.17°C, with blistering summers that often exceed 45°C. Its desert climate is dry and intense, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Modern infrastructure includes air-conditioned malls, shaded walkways, and cooling technologies. Traditional Emirati homes used wind towers for ventilation long before AC. The UAE’s heat defines its architecture, lifestyle, and even work hours, with many activities shifting to cooler evenings and nights.
8. Guinea-Bissau 🇬🇼
Guinea-Bissau, in West Africa, has an average temperature of 29.07°C. Its tropical climate is hot and humid, with a rainy season that brings brief relief. The country’s low elevation and proximity to the Atlantic contribute to its warmth. Agriculture thrives on crops like cashews and rice, adapted to the climate. Traditional homes use natural ventilation, and daily life is structured around the heat. Guinea-Bissau’s culture embraces the sun with music, color, and community.
9. Oman 🇴🇲
Oman’s average temperature of 29.03°C reflects its desert terrain and coastal humidity. Summers are brutally hot, especially inland, with temperatures soaring past 45°C. Coastal cities like Muscat experience high humidity, while the interior remains dry. Oman’s architecture uses thick walls and shaded courtyards to combat heat. Traditional clothing and midday rest periods help locals adapt. Despite the heat, Oman’s landscapes—from dunes to mountains—offer stunning beauty shaped by the sun.
10. Mauritania 🇲🇷
Mauritania, bordering the Sahara, averages 28.98°C annually. Its climate is dominated by dry winds, minimal rainfall, and vast desert expanses. The heat is relentless, especially in the north, where sandstorms are common. Nomadic traditions and desert architecture reflect centuries of adaptation. Mauritania’s people use flowing robes, shaded tents, and strategic movement to navigate the sun. The country’s culture and economy are deeply tied to its climate, making it a true desert nation.
11. Gambia 🇬🇲
Gambia, nestled along the West African coast, averages 28.87°C annually. Despite its small size, it packs a hot punch, especially inland where the sun dominates. The Gambia River moderates temperatures slightly, but humidity remains high. Locals adapt with lightweight clothing and shaded compounds. The heat influences agriculture, with crops like groundnuts thriving. Tourism flourishes thanks to warm beaches and wildlife. Gambia’s climate shapes its rhythm—early mornings and evenings are prime time for activity.
12. Benin 🇧🇯
Benin’s average temperature of 28.79°C places it firmly among the hottest nations. Located in West Africa, it features a mix of coastal humidity and inland aridity. The Harmattan winds bring dry heat from the Sahara, while the south experiences tropical warmth. Traditional homes use clay and palm thatch for cooling. Agriculture is adapted to the heat, with yams and cassava as staples. Benin’s vibrant culture, from music to markets, thrives under the blazing sun.
13. Cambodia 🇰🇭
Cambodia, in Southeast Asia, averages 28.75°C. Its tropical monsoon climate brings sweltering heat and high humidity, especially before the rains. The Mekong River and Tonlé Sap Lake offer some cooling, but cities like Phnom Penh can feel like steam rooms. Traditional Khmer architecture uses open spaces and elevated floors for ventilation. The heat shapes daily life, with midday breaks and evening gatherings. Cambodia’s temples, cuisine, and festivals pulse with energy despite the tropical blaze.
14. Ghana 🇬🇭
Ghana’s average temperature of 28.71°C reflects its location near the equator. The climate varies from humid coastal zones to dry savannahs inland. Harmattan winds bring dusty heat from the Sahara, while the south sees tropical rains. Ghanaian homes often feature wide eaves and open courtyards to combat heat. Agriculture thrives with cocoa, maize, and cassava. The warmth fuels a lively culture—music, dance, and street life flourish in the golden glow of Ghana’s sun.
15. Qatar 🇶🇦
Qatar’s desert climate averages 28.65°C, with summer highs often exceeding 45°C. Located on the Arabian Peninsula, it’s one of the hottest places on Earth. The heat is dry and intense, with minimal rainfall. Modern infrastructure includes air-conditioned stadiums, shaded walkways, and cooling systems. Traditional architecture used wind towers and thick walls for insulation. Qatar’s lifestyle adapts with evening activities and indoor spaces. The heat defines its urban planning, culture, and even its global sporting ambitions.
16. Niger 🇳🇪
Niger, deep in the Sahel, averages 28.62°C. Its vast desert terrain and low rainfall make it one of the hottest and driest countries. The Sahara dominates the north, while the south sees brief rainy seasons. Nomadic traditions and mud-brick architecture reflect centuries of adaptation. Water conservation and shaded living are essential. Despite the harsh climate, Niger’s people maintain vibrant cultural practices, from Tuareg festivals to Hausa markets, all shaped by the relentless sun.
17. Sudan 🇸🇩
Sudan’s average temperature of 28.59°C stems from its location between the Sahara and the Nile. Northern Sudan is arid and scorching – it is among the hottest places in the world. However, it is only on number 17 because of the south – which is more tropical. The heat influences everything—from agriculture to architecture. Traditional homes use thick walls and small windows to stay cool. The Nile provides vital irrigation and relief. Sudanese culture thrives despite the heat, with music, storytelling, and communal living offering comfort and connection under the blazing sky.
18. Nigeria 🇳🇬
Nigeria, can get boiling hot – it averages 28.57°C, but can sometimes reach 40.°C. Its climate ranges from humid coastal zones to dry savannahs and arid north. The Harmattan season brings dusty heat, while the rainy season offers brief respite. Nigerian cities bustle with life despite the warmth, and traditional homes use ventilation and shading to stay cool. Agriculture adapts with crops like millet and cassava. The heat fuels a dynamic culture—music, fashion, and street food all thrive in Nigeria’s sun-soaked rhythm.
19. Chad 🇹🇩
Chad’s average temperature of 28.51°C reflects its desert and Sahelian geography. The north is dominated by the Sahara, while the south sees seasonal rains. The heat is dry and intense, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C. Nomadic lifestyles, mud dwellings, and shaded compounds help locals adapt. Water scarcity shapes daily life. Despite the harsh climate, Chad’s cultural diversity—from Arab to Sub-Saharan traditions—flourishes in the sun-drenched landscape.
20. Togo 🇹🇬
Togo, a slender West African nation, averages 28.47°C. Its climate shifts from humid coastlines to dry savannahs inland. The Harmattan winds bring dry heat, while the rainy season offers brief relief. Traditional homes use clay and palm materials for cooling. Agriculture thrives with crops like maize and yams. Togo’s culture is vibrant—music, dance, and festivals pulse with energy. The heat shapes daily life, with early mornings and shaded afternoons as key rhythms.
21. Eritrea 🇪🇷
Eritrea, located in the Horn of Africa, averages 28.45°C. Its climate ranges from coastal humidity along the Red Sea to dry, mountainous inland regions. The heat is intense year-round, especially in lowland areas like Massawa, one of the hottest cities globally. Traditional homes use thick stone walls and shaded courtyards to stay cool. Eritreans adapt with early morning routines and siestas. Despite the heat, Eritrea’s culture and resilience shine through its music, cuisine, and community life.
22. Somalia 🇸🇴
Somalia’s average temperature of 28.33°C reflects its arid and semi-arid climate. Located in the Horn of Africa, it experiences scorching heat, especially in central and northern regions. Coastal areas offer some relief via sea breezes. Traditional Somali homes use open layouts and natural materials for cooling. The heat shapes daily life, with activities often paused during peak sun hours. Somalia’s nomadic heritage and coastal trade culture have long adapted to the challenges of extreme warmth.
23. Singapore 🇸🇬
Singapore averages 28.27°C, with high humidity and minimal seasonal variation. Located near the equator, it’s hot and sticky year-round. Urban heat is intensified by dense development, but greenery and water features help mitigate it. Air conditioning is ubiquitous, and public spaces are designed for thermal comfort. Singapore’s tropical climate supports lush biodiversity and vibrant street food culture. Despite the heat, the city-state thrives with innovation, blending nature and technology to stay cool and livable.
24. Micronesia 🇫🇲
Micronesia, a Pacific island nation, averages 28.23°C. Its equatorial location ensures constant warmth and high humidity. The islands are surrounded by ocean, which moderates the heat but adds moisture. Traditional homes are open-air and elevated to catch breezes. The climate supports rich marine life and tropical agriculture. Micronesia’s culture embraces the sun, with fishing, storytelling, and communal living deeply tied to nature. Despite rising temperatures, islanders maintain harmony with their environment.
25. Palau 🇵🇼
Palau’s average temperature of 28.21°C makes it one of the hottest island nations. Located in the western Pacific, it’s warm and humid year-round. The ocean provides some cooling, but the tropical sun dominates. Palau’s lush forests and coral reefs thrive in this climate. Traditional homes use natural ventilation and raised platforms. The heat shapes daily rhythms, with early activities and shaded rest. Palau’s culture celebrates nature, with deep respect for land, sea, and sun.
26. Maldives 🇲🇻
The Maldives averages 28.19°C, with tropical warmth and high humidity. Spread across the Indian Ocean, its low-lying islands are sun-drenched and sea-kissed. The heat is tempered by ocean breezes, but climate change brings rising temperatures and sea levels. Traditional Maldivian homes use coral stone and open designs for cooling. Tourism thrives on the sunny climate, with beach resorts and diving spots. The Maldives’ culture blends island serenity with resilience in the face of warming seas.
27. Marshall Islands 🇲🇭
The Marshall Islands average 28.17°C, with a tropical marine climate. Located in the central Pacific, they experience consistent warmth and humidity. The islands are flat and vulnerable to sea-level rise, but the heat is moderated by ocean winds. Traditional homes are built for airflow and shade. The climate supports coconut and breadfruit farming. Marshallese culture is deeply tied to the sea, with navigation, fishing, and storytelling adapted to the rhythms of sun and surf.
28. Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) 🇨🇮
Ivory Coast averages 28.15°C, with a mix of coastal humidity and inland heat. Located in West Africa, it experiences tropical warmth year-round. Rainy seasons bring brief relief, but the sun dominates. Traditional homes use clay and thatch for cooling. Agriculture thrives with cocoa, coffee, and cassava. The heat shapes daily life, with early work hours and shaded markets. Ivory Coast’s vibrant music, fashion, and cuisine pulse with energy under the golden sun.
29. Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka’s average temperature of 28.13°C reflects its tropical monsoon climate. Located in South Asia, it’s hot and humid, especially in coastal and lowland areas. The central highlands offer cooler relief. Traditional homes use open courtyards and clay tiles for ventilation. The heat supports lush agriculture—tea, rice, and spices flourish. Sri Lankan culture embraces the climate with colorful festivals, beach life, and spicy cuisine. Despite the warmth, the island remains a paradise of biodiversity.
30. Thailand 🇹🇭
Thailand averages 28.11°C, with a tropical climate that’s hot and humid year-round. The central plains and southern coasts are especially warm, while the north sees cooler winters. Traditional Thai architecture uses open spaces and elevated floors to stay cool. The heat fuels a vibrant street life—markets, food stalls, and festivals thrive in the sun. Thailand’s agriculture, from rice paddies to fruit orchards, is shaped by the climate. The warmth is woven into its culture and hospitality.
31. Suriname 🇸🇷
Suriname, in northern South America, averages 28.09°C. Its equatorial location ensures year-round heat and humidity. The country is blanketed by tropical rainforest, which adds moisture to the air. Traditional homes use wide eaves and open designs for airflow. The heat supports rich biodiversity and agriculture, including rice and bananas. Suriname’s culture blends Indigenous, African, and Dutch influences, with daily life shaped by the sun’s rhythm and the cooling shade of the jungle canopy.
32. Saint Lucia 🇱🇨
Saint Lucia averages 28.07°C, with a tropical climate that’s warm and humid year-round. Located in the eastern Caribbean, it enjoys steady trade winds that soften the heat. The island’s volcanic terrain adds elevation-based variation, with cooler temperatures in the mountains. Traditional homes use open-air designs and shutters for ventilation. Tourism thrives on the sunny climate, with beach resorts and rainforest hikes. Saint Lucia’s culture celebrates the sun through music, festivals, and vibrant island life.
33. Brunei 🇧🇳
Brunei, on the island of Borneo, averages 28.05°C. Its equatorial climate brings high humidity and frequent rain, but the heat remains constant. The country is lush with rainforest, and traditional homes are built on stilts with open layouts to catch breezes. Brunei’s wealth allows for modern cooling infrastructure, but traditional practices still endure. The heat supports tropical agriculture and a rich ecosystem. Brunei’s culture blends Islamic tradition with nature’s rhythm, thriving under the tropical sun.
34. Guinea 🇬🇳
Guinea’s average temperature of 28.03°C reflects its West African location. The climate ranges from humid coastal zones to dry savannahs inland. Rainy seasons bring brief relief, but the heat dominates. Traditional homes use clay and thatch for cooling. Agriculture thrives with rice, cassava, and coffee. Guinea’s culture pulses with music, dance, and community gatherings, often held in the cooler evenings. The sun shapes daily life, from market hours to farming routines.
35. Bahrain 🇧🇭
Bahrain averages 28.01°C, making it the hottest country in the Middle East. Located in the Persian Gulf, it experiences dry, scorching summers with temperatures often exceeding 45°C. Humidity adds to the discomfort, especially near the coast. Modern infrastructure includes air-conditioned buildings and shaded walkways. Traditional homes used wind towers and thick walls for cooling. Bahrain’s culture adapts with evening activities and indoor gatherings. The heat influences everything—from architecture to social customs.
36. Sierra Leone 🇸🇱
Sierra Leone’s average temperature of 27.98°C reflects its tropical coastal climate. Located in West Africa, it’s hot and humid year-round, with rainy seasons offering brief relief. The Atlantic Ocean moderates the heat slightly. Traditional homes use natural materials and open designs for ventilation. Agriculture thrives with rice, cocoa, and palm oil. Sierra Leone’s culture embraces the warmth with vibrant music, beach life, and community spirit. The sun shapes both work and celebration.
37. Kuwait 🇰🇼
Kuwait averages 27.96°C, but summer temperatures often soar above 50°C, making it one of the hottest places on Earth. Located in the Arabian Peninsula, its desert climate is dry and intense. Modern life relies heavily on air conditioning and shaded infrastructure. Traditional homes used courtyards and thick walls for insulation. The heat influences daily schedules, with many activities shifting to cooler evenings. Kuwait’s culture and economy have adapted to thrive despite the extreme warmth.
38. El Salvador 🇸🇻
El Salvador’s average temperature of 27.94°C reflects its tropical climate. Located in Central America, it’s warm year-round, with coastal humidity and inland heat. The rainy season brings cooling showers, but the sun dominates. Traditional homes use clay tiles and open courtyards for ventilation. Agriculture thrives with coffee, sugarcane, and maize. El Salvador’s culture pulses with energy—festivals, street food, and music flourish under the sun. The heat shapes both rural and urban rhythms.
39. Trinidad and Tobago 🇹🇹
Trinidad and Tobago average 27.92°C, with a tropical climate that’s hot and humid year-round. Located in the southern Caribbean, the islands enjoy trade winds that temper the heat. Rainy seasons bring lush greenery and brief cooling. Traditional homes use open layouts and shaded verandas. The heat supports vibrant agriculture and biodiversity. Trinidad and Tobago’s culture—Carnival, calypso, and cuisine—thrives in the warmth, with daily life shaped by the rhythm of the sun and sea.
40. Grenada 🇬🇩
Grenada averages 27.90°C, with a tropical climate that’s warm and humid throughout the year. Located in the southeastern Caribbean, it’s known as the “Spice Island” for its nutmeg and cinnamon production. The heat supports lush vegetation and vibrant agriculture. Traditional homes use breezy designs and shaded porches. Tourism flourishes thanks to sunny beaches and rainforest hikes. Grenada’s culture blends African, French, and Caribbean influences, all thriving under the golden glow of the tropical sun.
41. Central African Republic 🇨🇫
The Central African Republic averages 27.88°C, with a tropical climate that’s hot and humid year-round. Rainy seasons bring brief cooling, but the sun dominates most of the year. The country’s vast savannahs and forests thrive in the heat. Traditional homes use mud bricks and thatched roofs for insulation. Agriculture includes cassava, maize, and peanuts. Despite challenges, the warmth supports a rich cultural tapestry of music, dance, and storytelling rooted in community and resilience.
42. Barbados 🇧🇧
Barbados averages 27.86°C, with a tropical marine climate that’s warm and breezy. Located in the eastern Caribbean, it enjoys steady trade winds that temper the heat. Rainy seasons bring lush greenery and brief relief. Traditional homes use open layouts and shutters for ventilation. Tourism thrives on the sunny climate, with beach resorts and cultural festivals. Barbados’ vibrant culture—calypso, cricket, and cuisine—flourishes under the golden Caribbean sun.
43. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 🇻🇨
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines average 27.84°C, with a tropical climate that’s hot and humid year-round. The islands enjoy cooling trade winds and lush vegetation. Traditional homes are built for airflow and shade. Agriculture includes bananas, coconuts, and spices. The heat supports vibrant marine life and tourism. The culture blends African, European, and Indigenous influences, with music, festivals, and beach life thriving in the warmth of the sun.
44. Solomon Islands 🇸🇧
The Solomon Islands average 27.82°C, with a tropical rainforest climate. Located in the South Pacific, they experience high humidity and consistent warmth. Rainfall is frequent, but the sun dominates. Traditional homes are raised and open to catch breezes. The heat supports rich biodiversity and subsistence farming. Solomon Islander culture is deeply tied to nature, with fishing, canoeing, and storytelling forming the rhythm of life under the tropical sun.
45. Venezuela 🇻🇪
Venezuela averages 27.80°C, with a diverse climate ranging from coastal heat to cooler highlands. The lowland regions and Caribbean coast are especially warm. Traditional homes use clay tiles and shaded courtyards. Agriculture includes coffee, cocoa, and tropical fruits. The heat fuels a lively culture—music, dance, and street life flourish. Despite economic challenges, Venezuelans embrace the sun with resilience and joy, celebrating life in vibrant colors and rhythms.
46. Seychelles 🇸🇨
Seychelles averages 27.78°C, with a tropical marine climate that’s warm and humid year-round. Located in the Indian Ocean, the islands enjoy sea breezes and lush vegetation. Traditional homes use open designs and natural materials. Tourism thrives on the sunny climate, with pristine beaches and coral reefs. Seychelles’ culture blends African, French, and Asian influences, with music, cuisine, and community life shaped by the rhythm of the sun and sea.
47. Antigua and Barbuda 🇦🇬
Antigua and Barbuda average 27.76°C, with a tropical climate moderated by trade winds. Located in the eastern Caribbean, the islands are sun-drenched and breezy. Traditional homes use shutters and elevated designs for cooling. The heat supports tourism, agriculture, and vibrant marine life. The culture celebrates warmth through Carnival, calypso, and cricket. Daily life flows with the sun, from beach outings to evening gatherings under starry skies.
48. Saint Kitts and Nevis 🇰🇳
Saint Kitts and Nevis average 27.74°C, with a tropical climate that’s hot and humid year-round. The islands enjoy cooling breezes and lush landscapes. Traditional homes use open-air designs and shaded verandas. Agriculture includes sugarcane, fruits, and vegetables. The heat supports tourism and outdoor living. The culture blends African, British, and Caribbean influences, with music, festivals, and community life thriving in the warmth of the sun.
49. Guyana 🇬🇾
Guyana averages 27.72°C, with a tropical climate that’s hot and humid. Located in South America, it features rainforests, rivers, and savannahs. Traditional homes use stilts and open layouts for ventilation. Agriculture includes rice, sugar, and tropical fruits. The heat shapes daily life, with early work hours and shaded rest. Guyanese culture blends Indigenous, African, Indian, and European traditions, thriving in the warmth with vibrant food, music, and storytelling.
50. Philippines 🇵🇭
The Philippines averages 27.70°C, with a tropical maritime climate. Its 7,000+ islands experience high humidity and consistent warmth. Rainy seasons bring brief relief, but the sun dominates. Traditional homes use bamboo, nipa, and open designs for cooling. Agriculture includes rice, coconuts, and mangoes. Filipino culture embraces the heat with fiestas, beach life, and street food. Despite typhoons and rising temperatures, the spirit of the Philippines shines brightly under the sun.
Closing: More Than Just Degrees
Heat isn’t just a number—it’s a way of life. In the world’s hottest countries, people adapt with architecture, clothing, cuisine, and customs designed to thrive under the sun. These nations showcase human ingenuity in the face of climate extremes, offering lessons in sustainability, endurance, and cultural richness.
As global temperatures rise and climate conversations intensify, understanding these hot zones becomes more than trivia—it’s essential. Whether you’re planning a tropical escape or studying climate trends, this list is a tribute to the places where the sun never takes a holiday.
Here’s to the heat—and the people who live it every day.