Hottest Countries in the World in 2023
Think you can handle the heat? The earth is home to some scorching hotspots that will leave you sweating and sizzling.
But how do you define the ‘hottest’ country? Is it the one that boasts the highest single temperature ever recorded, like Kuwait with its scorching 53.2°C (127.7°F) day in June 2021?
Or perhaps the country with the highest temperature in modern history, such as the United States’ 56.7°C (134°F) in Death Valley back in 1913?
Maybe it’s the place with the highest average summer heat, ignoring winter temps altogether?
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 from sun-drenched deserts to steamy tropical rainforests.
Top 10 Hottest Countries
Let’s take a look at the top ten hottest countries that made it to our ‘top ten’ list:

Gambia
Gambia, the smallest country on mainland Africa, makes it to our list at number 10. 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.

Qatar
This small yet affluent Middle Eastern nation is known for its scorching desert climate. With summer temperatures often soaring above 45°C (113°F), Qatar's modern cities, like Doha, offer air-conditioned comfort as an oasis amidst the heat.

Palau
This tiny tropical island paradise in the Pacific Ocean boasts a consistently warm climate year-round. Palau's diverse marine life and lush, unspoiled landscapes make it the perfect getaway for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure in a warm setting.

Bahrain
An archipelago in the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain experiences high temperatures throughout the year. Its unique blend of ancient history and modern architecture, coupled with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, make it a fascinating melting pot for digital nomads who don't mind the heat.

Mauritania
Located in West Africa, Mauritania features a largely desert climate with soaring temperatures. Its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination for those adventurous enough to brave the relentless heat.

Djibouti
Sandwiched between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, Djibouti is known for its sweltering climate. Despite the heat, this small nation offers striking landscapes, such as the otherworldly Lake Assal, and a strategic location that attracts international business.

Tuvalu
Tuvalu, a remote Polynesian island nation, is not only one of the smallest countries in the world but also one of the hottest. However, its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture make it an enticing destination for those who don't mind the tropical heat.

Senegal
This West African nation's warm climate is due to its location near the equator. Senegal's mix of bustling cities, such as Dakar, and serene coastal villages offer a diverse and culturally rich experience for digital nomads and travelers.

Burkina Faso
Another West African country, Burkina Faso, is characterized by its hot, arid climate. Despite the heat, the country's lively festivals and warm, hospitable people make it an intriguing destination for those willing to embrace the challenge.

Mali
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, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes that are well worth exploring, despite the heat.
Adapting to Extreme Heat: Tips and Tricks
🥤 Staying cool and hydrated
Keep a water bottle handy at all times, and make sure to sip frequently to stay hydrated. Opt for light, refreshing beverages over heavy, sugary drinks.
⏰ Adjusting your work schedule
Consider working during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late evenings, and taking breaks during the hottest hours to avoid heat exhaustion.
🏠 Choosing the right accommodation
Look for lodgings with proper ventilation, air conditioning, or at least ceiling fans. Make sure there’s adequate shade, and consider investing in blackout curtains to keep the heat out.
👕 Dressing for the climate
Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Loose-fitting clothing in light colors will help you stay cool and comfortable in the heat.
Conclusion
Above, we presented you the hottest destinations in the world, along with tips on how to cope with the heat if life takes you to one of these destinations. Adapting to the heat and embracing a location-independent lifestyle can make life in these sweltering hotspots not just bearable but also rewarding.
Related Articles
FAQs
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 temperatures year-round. 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?
Climate and weather patterns are influenced by geographical features, not political boundaries. 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 in terms of 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 in others, heavy rainfall can cause flash floods.
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 difficult for people in a hot country to go about their daily activities without taking precautions to stay cool.
What is the hottest capital city in the world?
There is no single "hottest country" in the world, as there are many countries that experience similar high temperatures. However, some of the 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.