Banjul in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Banjul

93°F (34°C) High Temp

72°F (22°C) Low Temp

0.1 inches (2.5 mm) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) across the month, making it ideal for outdoor activities and river excursions along the Gambia River
Perfect temperatures for walking Albert Market and exploring downtown - 72°F to 93°F (22°C to 34°C) range means comfortable early morning and evening exploration
Excellent bird watching season as migratory species arrive - over 200 species visible at Tanbi Wetland Complex just 5 km (3.1 miles) from city center
Lower accommodation costs compared to peak European winter months - hotels typically 20-30% cheaper than December-February rates before tourist high season begins

Considerations

Increasing temperatures throughout the month can make midday activities uncomfortable - expect 90°F+ (32°C+) between 11am-4pm most days
Harmattan winds begin bringing dust from the Sahara, reducing air quality and visibility some days, particularly affecting photography
Limited cultural events compared to harvest season months - most traditional festivals occur earlier in the dry season

Best Activities in November

Gambia River Boat Excursions

November's low rainfall and calm conditions make river trips ideal. Water levels are perfect for accessing smaller tributaries and creek systems. Morning temperatures of 72-80°F (22-27°C) provide comfortable conditions for wildlife spotting including hippos, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. The dry season concentrates animals around water sources, improving wildlife viewing significantly.

Booking Tip: Book through licensed operators at Denton Bridge or nearby ferry terminals. Trips typically cost 800-1,500 dalasi ($15-28 USD) for half-day excursions. Book 3-5 days ahead during November as demand increases. Look for operators with life jackets and radio communication. See current tour options in booking section below.

Albert Market and Downtown Walking Tours

Perfect weather window for exploring Banjul's compact 2 km² (0.8 mi²) city center. November's moderate humidity (70%) and manageable temperatures make the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) walk from ferry terminal to Albert Market comfortable in early morning or late afternoon. Dry conditions mean dusty streets are more manageable, and outdoor food vendors operate at full capacity.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration works well, but guided tours provide cultural context and language assistance. Cultural walks typically cost 300-600 dalasi ($6-12 USD) for 2-3 hours. Start before 9am or after 4pm to avoid peak heat. Licensed guides available at Arch 22 or through hotel concierges.

Tanbi Wetland Complex Bird Watching

November marks the arrival of Palearctic migrants joining resident species - optimal birding season begins. The wetlands, just 5 km (3.1 miles) from central Banjul, offer 200+ species visibility. Dry season water levels concentrate birds, and cooler morning temperatures (72-78°F/22-26°C) mean active bird behavior extends later into morning hours.

Booking Tip: Independent birders can access via shared taxi (20-30 dalasi/$0.40-0.60), but guided tours provide species identification expertise. Birding tours cost 1,000-2,000 dalasi ($19-38 USD) including transport and guide. Book through ornithology associations or eco-lodges. Binoculars rentals available for 100 dalasi ($2 USD) daily.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool Day Trips

November's dry conditions make the 30 km (18.6 mile) journey to Gambia more comfortable, and reduced water levels mean crocodiles are more concentrated and visible. The sacred pool experience combines cultural education with wildlife encounter. Comfortable temperatures until midday make morning departures ideal.

Booking Tip: Combine with Gambia Market for full-day cultural immersion. Transport plus guided pool visit typically costs 800-1,400 dalasi ($15-26 USD). Shared bush taxis cost 50-75 dalasi ($1-1.50) each way, but private transport recommended for time flexibility. Book through hotel arrangements or see current options in booking section below.

Abuko Nature Reserve Excursions

The 1 km² (0.4 mi²) reserve, 20 km (12.4 miles) from Banjul, offers concentrated wildlife viewing in November's dry season. Animals concentrate around permanent water sources, and the 2.5 km (1.6 mile) nature trail is comfortable in November's moderate temperatures. Primate viewing is excellent as troops remain active in cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Entry fee 100 dalasi ($2 USD) plus transport costs 400-800 dalasi ($8-15 USD) return. Combine with nearby attractions like Lamin Lodge for full-day nature experience. Tours including transport and guide typically 1,200-2,000 dalasi ($23-38 USD). Morning departures essential to avoid afternoon heat.

Traditional Fishing Village Visits

November's calm river conditions mean fishing boats operate on regular schedules, and the dry season brings increased fish catches. Villages like Barra (accessible by 30-minute ferry) showcase traditional Gambian fishing culture. Comfortable temperatures make walking through villages and fish markets pleasant, especially during morning landing times (6-9am).

Booking Tip: Ferry to Barra costs 25 dalasi ($0.50) one way. Cultural village tours with local guides typically 500-1,000 dalasi ($10-19 USD) including traditional lunch. Timing crucial - visit during morning fish landings (6-9am) for real feel. Arrange through cultural centers or see current community tourism options in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

West African Bird Migration Peak

November marks the peak arrival of European and North African migratory birds to The Gambia's wetlands and forests. Over 150 Palearctic species arrive, joining 400+ resident species. Professional birding groups organize dawn chorus walks and specialized photography sessions.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeved cotton shirts - protect against 93°F (34°C) midday sun while allowing air circulation in 70% humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 requires serious sun protection, especially on river excursions with water reflection

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - evening mosquito activity increases near wetlands and river areas despite dry conditions

Light rain jacket or umbrella - 10 rainy days with brief afternoon showers lasting 15-30 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - dusty conditions and uneven surfaces in Albert Market and downtown areas

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat and moisture in humid conditions

Light sweater for early mornings - temperatures drop to 72°F (22°C) during dawn river trips and bird watching

Dust mask or bandana - harmattan winds bring Saharan dust, affecting air quality on some days

Waterproof bag for electronics - protect cameras and phones during river excursions and brief rain showers

Reusable water bottle - stay hydrated in warm conditions, refill at hotels and restaurants with filtered water

Insider Knowledge

Best photography light occurs 6:30-8:30am and 5:30-6:30pm - harsh midday sun creates poor contrast, and dust from harmattan winds reduces clarity

Albert Market vendors expect negotiation - start at 30-40% of asking price for crafts and textiles, but food prices are generally fixed

Shared taxis (car rapides) cost 15-25 dalasi ($0.30-0.50) for city trips but operate on local time - add 30-45 minutes buffer for connections

Many restaurants close 3-5pm during hot afternoons - plan lunch before 2pm or wait until evening service resumes around 6pm

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 11am-4pm heat - temperatures reach 90-93°F (32-34°C) with high humidity making exertion uncomfortable

Not carrying small denomination dalasi notes - many vendors, taxis, and small restaurants cannot change 500 or 1,000 dalasi notes

Expecting Western-style punctuality - Gambian time operates more flexibly, so build buffers into schedules and confirm meeting times day before