Malawi in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Malawi

28°C (82°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

180mm (7.1 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Green season transforms landscapes - waterfalls at full power and countryside lush after dry season
Tourist numbers drop 40% compared to dry season, meaning better prices and less crowded attractions
Perfect wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water sources and migrant birds arrive
Mango season begins with roadside vendors selling fresh fruit for MK50-100 ($0.05-0.10) per piece

Considerations

Daily afternoon thunderstorms lasting 1-3 hours can disrupt outdoor activities between 2-5pm
Rural roads become challenging with 4WD required for many northern destinations
Lake activities affected by choppy conditions and reduced visibility for snorkeling

Best Activities in November

Liwonde National Park Wildlife Viewing

November marks the beginning of the best game viewing season as animals concentrate around the Shire River. Elephants, hippos, and crocodiles are easily spotted, while migrant birds arrive from Europe. Morning safaris (6-10am) avoid afternoon rains and offer cooler temperatures around 22°C (72°F).

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead as lodges fill quickly during green season. Game drives cost MK45,000-75,000 ($45-75) per vehicle. Choose operators with covered vehicles for sudden rain showers. Morning drives are most productive.

Chongoni Rock Art Cultural Tours

November's cloud cover provides ideal conditions for exploring UNESCO rock art sites without harsh sun exposure. The 2-3 hour hikes are comfortable in morning temperatures of 20°C (68°F) before afternoon rains. Local guides share Chewa cultural stories enhanced by the mystical atmosphere of gathering clouds.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours range MK25,000-40,000 ($25-40) including guide and transport. Book through community tourism groups for real feels. Start early (7am) to complete tours before afternoon storms.

Majete Wildlife Reserve Big Five Safaris

November offers exceptional predator sightings as lions and leopards are more active in cooler, cloudy weather. The reserve's successful conservation program means guaranteed wildlife encounters, while green season pricing makes luxury lodges 30% cheaper than peak months.

Booking Tip: All-inclusive packages range MK180,000-350,000 ($180-350) for 2 days. Book directly with lodges for green season discounts. Afternoon game drives work well despite rain risk as animals remain active in overcast conditions.

Lake Malawi Snorkeling and Kayaking

November's warmer lake temperatures of 26°C (79°F) make water activities comfortable despite occasional afternoon choppiness. Morning sessions offer glass-calm conditions perfect for spotting endemic cichlid fish. Cape Maclear and Nkhata Bay provide sheltered bays when main lake gets rough.

Booking Tip: Equipment rental costs MK8,000-15,000 ($8-15) per day. Choose morning slots (8am-noon) for best conditions. Lake lodges offer protected coves for activities during afternoon weather. Book equipment night before to secure morning slots.

Mulanje Massif Tea Estate Tours

November's regular rainfall creates perfect conditions for touring lush tea plantations. Afternoon mists on Mulanje Mountain create dramatic backdrops for photography, while estate tours explain how November rains affect tea quality. Indoor factory tours provide shelter during daily downpours.

Booking Tip: Estate tours cost MK12,000-20,000 ($12-20) including tea tasting. Book through established estates with covered facilities. Combine with indoor cultural centers for rainy afternoon backup plans. Mountain hiking requires proper rain gear and experienced guides.

Traditional Village Homestays

November marks planting season, offering real feels participating in agricultural activities. Cool morning temperatures make farm work comfortable, while afternoon rains provide natural break times for cultural discussions indoors. Witness preparation for upcoming growing season firsthand.

Booking Tip: Homestays range MK15,000-35,000 ($15-35) per night including meals. Book through community tourism organizations ensuring fair payment to families. Bring mosquito nets as November rains increase mosquito activity. Cultural sensitivity training recommended.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Tumaini Festival

Africa's only refugee-led arts festival brings together local and international artists in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. Features music, poetry, visual arts, and cultural exchange programs showcasing resilience and creativity.

Late November

Mango Season Opening Markets

Local markets across southern Malawi celebrate the first mango harvests with special fruit festivals. Vendors compete for best varieties while traditional dancers perform. Sample over 20 local mango types not found elsewhere.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof daypack cover - afternoon storms dump 25mm (1 inch) in 30 minutes

Quick-dry pants and shirts - cotton takes hours to dry in 75% humidity

Lightweight rain poncho - umbrellas useless in thunderstorm winds

Waterproof phone case - essential for lake activities and unexpected downpours

High-SPF sunscreen (50+) - UV index of 9 burns skin in 10 minutes despite clouds

Insect repellent with DEET - post-rain mosquito activity peaks at dusk

Closed-toe shoes that drain - Crocs or water shoes for muddy conditions

Headlamp with extra batteries - power outages common during storms

Malaria prophylaxis - consult doctor as November rains increase mosquito breeding

Cash in small bills - rural ATMs often out of service during rainy season

Insider Knowledge

Local buses stop running during heavy afternoon rains (2-5pm) - plan travel for morning departures when roads are driest

November is when locals harvest bamboo for construction - ask to join community building projects for authentic cultural exchange

Lake Lodge owners offer 'rain discounts' for flexible travelers - ask about same-day rate reductions if weather looks stormy

Afternoon rain creates perfect conditions for indoor activities - November is when locals gather for storytelling and traditional crafts

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling lake activities for afternoons when wind picks up - book morning slots between 7am-11am for calmest conditions

Not bringing proper rain gear then buying overpriced equipment in tourist areas - quality rain jackets cost 3x more in Lilongwe than home

Assuming all roads remain accessible - northern routes to Nyika require 4WD and local knowledge during November rains