Monrovia in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Monrovia
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season begins - rainfall drops to nearly zero making it ideal for outdoor exploration and beach activities without constant weather disruptions
- Tourist crowds are at their lowest before December holiday rush - attractions have shorter lines and restaurants are easier to book
- Hotel rates are 30-40% lower than peak season (December-February) with excellent availability at top properties
- Perfect visibility for diving and snorkeling - post-rainy season water clarity is at its annual best with 25-30m (82-98ft) visibility
Considerations
- Extreme heat and humidity make midday outdoor activities exhausting - temperatures feel like 95°C (203°F) between 11am-3pm
- Harmattan dust from the Sahara creates hazy skies and reduces air quality, particularly affecting those with respiratory sensitivities
- Limited cultural events compared to dry season peak months - many festivals and celebrations happen later in the season
Best Activities in November
Early Morning Market Tours and Food Walks
November's cooler morning temperatures (24°C/75°F at 6am) make this the perfect time to explore Waterside Market and Red Light area food stalls. Local vendors are freshest before 9am, and you'll avoid the crushing midday heat while sampling palm butter, cassava bread, and fresh fish. The dry weather means markets are fully operational without mud or flooding concerns.
Robertsport Surfing and Beach Activities
November brings consistent offshore winds and cleaner swells to Liberia, 45km (28 miles) from Monrovia. The dry season eliminates river runoff, creating clearer water and better surf conditions. Mornings offer glassy waves perfect for beginners, while afternoons bring stronger swells for experienced surfers. Beach temperatures are manageable before 11am.
Sapo National Park Wildlife Viewing
November marks the beginning of optimal wildlife viewing as animals congregate around permanent water sources. The dry weather makes forest trails accessible and reduces mosquito populations significantly. Early morning forest walks (starting 5:30am) offer the best chance to spot forest elephants, pygmy hippos, and over 590 bird species in cooler temperatures.
Ducor Palace Hill Historical Tours
The iconic abandoned hotel becomes accessible in November's dry conditions with clearer paths and stable weather for urban exploration photography. Late afternoon tours (4-6pm) offer impressive sunset views over Monrovia while avoiding peak heat. The reduced humidity makes the climb to upper floors more bearable for photography enthusiasts.
Providence Island Cultural Heritage Tours
November's calm waters make boat transport to this destination reliable and comfortable. This historic settlement site of freed American slaves offers crucial Liberian history without crowds. The dry season reveals archaeological features and makes coastal walks around the 2km (1.2 mile) perimeter pleasant in morning hours.
Firestone Plantation and Rubber Processing Tours
The world's largest rubber plantation becomes fully accessible in November as roads dry out from rainy season flooding. Educational tours show the complete rubber tapping and processing cycle, most active in dry season mornings. The 480km² (185 square mile) plantation offers insight into Liberia's economic history and current industrial operations.
November Events & Festivals
Liberian Independence Celebration Preparations
Throughout November, communities begin preparing for July 26th Independence Day with traditional craft workshops and cultural practice sessions. Visitors can observe mask carving, traditional dance rehearsals, and storytelling sessions in various neighborhoods, offering authentic cultural immersion without tourist-focused presentations.