Things to Do in Senegal in November

November Weather in Senegal

32°C (90°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

15 mm (0.6 inches) Rainfall

45% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect weather conditions: 32°C (90°F) highs with only 2 rainy days and 45% humidity - ideal for all outdoor activities from dawn to dusk
Peak migratory bird season at Djoudj National Park with over 350 species including flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants arriving from Europe
Optimal ocean conditions: 26°C (79°F) water temperature with minimal waves, perfect visibility for diving at Gorée Island and fishing excursions
Cultural calendar peak: Traditional wrestling season (lutte traditionnelle) and harvest festivals across rural villages, plus cooler evenings perfect for outdoor concerts

Considerations

Harmattan winds bring dust from the Sahara, reducing visibility to 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 miles) on some days and affecting photography
High season pricing: accommodation rates increase 40-60% compared to rainy season months, especially in Dakar and Saly
Intense UV exposure with index of 9 - sunburn can occur in just 15 minutes without protection

Best Activities in November

Gorée Island Historical Tours

November's dry weather and calm seas make the 20-minute ferry ride comfortable every day. The 32°C (90°F) temperature is perfect for walking the cobblestone streets without the oppressive humidity of other months. UNESCO World Heritage sites are easily accessible, and the clear skies provide excellent photography conditions of the colonial architecture. Ocean breezes keep the island 3-4°C cooler than mainland Dakar.

Booking Tip: Book ferry tickets 2-3 days ahead during November high season. Typical day tours cost 15,000-25,000 CFA (roughly $25-40). Morning departures at 8am avoid afternoon crowds. Look for certified guides with official badges from the Gorée Island Museum.

Djoudj National Park Bird Watching

Peak migration season brings over 350 bird species from Europe, including massive flocks of flamingos and white pelicans. November's dry conditions mean birds concentrate around remaining water sources, guaranteeing spectacular viewing. The 19°C (66°F) morning temperatures are perfect for 4am starts when bird activity peaks. Clear skies provide excellent photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 days ahead through licensed eco-guides. Full day tours typically cost 35,000-50,000 CFA ($55-80) including boat and guide. Start before sunrise for best wildlife viewing. Ensure operator provides binoculars and has official park permits.

Traditional Wrestling (Lutte) Experiences

November marks peak wrestling season when cooler evening temperatures make outdoor matches comfortable. Major bouts happen every weekend in Dakar's arenas, and village tournaments occur throughout rural Senegal. The cultural significance is highest during harvest season, with elaborate pre-match ceremonies and traditional music that tourists rarely experience other times of year.

Booking Tip: Village tournaments are free but require local contacts - arrange through cultural tour operators 1 week ahead. Dakar arena matches cost 5,000-15,000 CFA ($8-25). Look for operators who can arrange meetings with wrestlers and explain cultural significance.

Sine-Saloum Delta Mangrove Tours

November's low rainfall means optimal boat conditions through the delta's 200 km (124 miles) of waterways. Dry season concentrates wildlife around water sources - expect to see manatees, dolphins, and over 250 bird species. The 26°C (79°F) water temperature is perfect for swimming at shell island beaches. Clear skies provide stunning sunset photography from traditional pirogues.

Booking Tip: Book pirogue tours 5-7 days ahead through operators in Toubacouta or Ndangane. Full day tours with lunch typically cost 25,000-40,000 CFA ($40-65). Ensure operator provides life jackets and has radio communication for remote areas.

Sahel Desert Excursions

November offers the only comfortable desert conditions with 32°C (90°F) days and cool 19°C (66°F) nights perfect for camping under clear stars. Harmattan winds create dramatic dune formations near Lompoul Desert. The dry conditions mean 4WD access to remote Fulani villages for authentic cultural exchanges impossible during wet months.

Booking Tip: Book multi-day desert tours 10-14 days ahead as local guides get busy during peak weather. 2-day camping experiences typically cost 45,000-65,000 CFA ($75-105) including meals and transport. Verify operator provides proper camping equipment and emergency communication.

Saint-Louis Architecture and Jazz Tours

November's comfortable temperatures and minimal rain make walking tours of this UNESCO World Heritage city ideal. Colonial architecture photography benefits from clear skies and dramatic lighting. The famous Saint-Louis Jazz Festival often extends activities into November, and cooler evenings are perfect for riverside concerts and traditional music sessions.

Booking Tip: Book architectural tours through certified local guides 3-5 days ahead. Walking tours typically cost 12,000-20,000 CFA ($20-33) for half-day. Evening jazz experiences cost 8,000-15,000 CFA ($13-25). Look for guides registered with Saint-Louis Tourism Office.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Dak'Art Biennale Preparation Events

November features preliminary exhibitions and artist workshops leading up to the major contemporary African art biennale. Gallery openings, artist studio visits, and cultural discussions happen throughout Dakar's vibrant art districts.

Mid to Late November

Traditional Harvest Festivals

Rural communities across Senegal celebrate successful harvests with traditional music, dance, and ceremonies. Each village has different dates, but November sees the highest concentration of authentic cultural celebrations rarely witnessed by tourists.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 9 and reflection off sand/water intensifies exposure

Lightweight dust mask or bandana - Harmattan winds carry Sahara dust reducing visibility some days

Breathable cotton long sleeves - protect from sun while staying cool in 32°C (90°F) temperatures

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets in Gorée and Saint-Louis can be slippery

Light jacket for evenings - temperatures drop to 19°C (66°F) and ocean breezes add wind chill

Waterproof phone case - boat trips to islands and delta tours involve water spray

Binoculars - essential for bird watching at Djoudj and wildlife spotting in mangroves

Power bank and universal adapter - frequent power outages outside Dakar, especially during peak tourist season

Quick-dry clothing - 45% humidity still means sweating during midday activities

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes active around water sources despite dry conditions

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Dakar's Plateau district by September - popular boutique hotels fill completely during November's peak season, forcing last-minute visitors to stay 15-20 km (9-12 miles) outside the city

Carry small CFA bills (1,000 and 2,000 notes) - rural tours and village visits rarely have change for large denominations, and mobile money isn't accepted everywhere yet

Schedule morning activities from 6-10am and resume after 4pm - even locals avoid midday sun during November's peak UV period

Learn basic Wolof greetings beyond French - 'Nanga def' (how are you?) opens doors in rural areas that remain closed to French-only speakers, especially during cultural tours and village visits

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the dust - tourists pack white/light clothes that show every speck of Harmattan dust, making laundry a daily necessity instead of weekly

Booking same-day island ferries - November's popularity means Gorée Island ferries sell out by noon, leaving tourists stranded in Dakar with no backup plans

Skipping malaria prevention - the dry weather fools visitors into thinking mosquitoes aren't a risk, but mangrove and delta tours still require prophylaxis