Lome - Things to Do in Lome in November

Lome in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Lome

33°C (91°F) High Temp
24°C (76°F) Low Temp
20mm (0.8 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

  • Post-rainy season clarity creates exceptional beach visibility at Lomé's coastline - water is clearest from October through December
  • Harmattan winds begin in late November, dropping humidity from 85% to 70% and making outdoor exploration significantly more comfortable
  • Yam festival season brings incredible street food variety - roasted yams with spicy sauces appear at every corner for 500-1000 CFA
  • Tourist crowds are at yearly minimum while weather remains excellent - beaches and markets feel authentically local rather than tourist-heavy

Considerations

  • Occasional brief downpours (10-15 minutes) can disrupt outdoor plans, though they're predictable between 2-4pm most days
  • Some coastal roads still have puddles from October rains, making motorcycle taxi rides bumpier than usual
  • Hotel prices start climbing mid-month as December holiday bookings increase - early November rates are 30-40% lower than late November

Best Activities in November

Grand Marché du Lomé Morning Tours

November's lower humidity makes the covered market significantly more comfortable for extended browsing. Local vendors showcase seasonal produce including fresh palm nuts and harvested yams. The 6am-10am window is perfect before afternoon heat builds - temperatures stay around 26°C (79°F) during these hours.

Booking Tip: Join cultural walking tours that depart 7am daily, typically 8000-12000 CFA per person. Book 3-5 days ahead through your accommodation. Look for guides who speak both Ewe and French for deeper cultural insights.

Aného Lagoon Fishing Village Excursions

November's calm waters and clear skies create ideal conditions for lagoon exploration. Traditional pirogue rides showcase stilt fishing techniques while avoiding rainy season navigation challenges. Morning mists lift by 8am revealing spectacular bird activity.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost 15000-25000 CFA including transport and boat ride. Book through licensed operators 7-10 days ahead. Ensure boats have life jackets and experienced local guides familiar with seasonal water conditions.

Togoville Historical Lake Tours

Lake Togo's water levels are optimal in November after rainy season replenishment but before dry season lowering begins. The historic German colonial architecture is best photographed in November's softer light with reduced dust in the atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Half-day excursions range 18000-28000 CFA with boat transport across Lake Togo. Book 5-7 days ahead and confirm departure times - morning trips (8am-12pm) offer best lighting and cooler temperatures around 28°C (82°F).

Lomé Beach Sunrise Photography Walks

November offers the year's most dramatic sunrise conditions with Harmattan dust creating spectacular orange and pink skies around 6:15am. Beach temperatures are comfortable at 24°C (75°F) during sunrise hours, perfect for extended photography sessions.

Booking Tip: Photography tours typically 6000-10000 CFA for 2-3 hours starting 5:45am. Local photographers offer equipment guidance and cultural context. Book 2-3 days ahead and confirm weather conditions the evening before.

Kpalimé Mountain Day Trips

November marks the beginning of optimal hiking weather with reduced rainfall and temperatures 5-7°C (9-13°F) cooler than coastal Lomé. Waterfalls are still flowing from October rains while trails become more accessible as mud dries.

Booking Tip: Full day mountain excursions cost 20000-35000 CFA including transport and guide. Book 10-14 days ahead as November popularity increases. Confirm vehicle condition for 120km (75-mile) journey and mountain terrain navigation.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Yam Festival Celebrations

Traditional harvest celebrations throughout November feature elaborate yam preparation ceremonies, drumming competitions, and community feasts. Each neighborhood hosts different celebration dates, creating nearly continuous festival atmosphere across the city.

Late November

Guin Festival Preparations

November marks intensive preparation for December's major Guin celebration, with traditional craft demonstrations, costume making workshops, and musical rehearsals visible throughout Lomé's cultural quarters.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers last 10-15 minutes but can be intense with 20mm (0.8 inches) monthly rainfall
Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity
SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with strong reflection off coastal sand and water
Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - some coastal paths remain slippery from recent rains
Light cotton long sleeves for evening - temperatures drop to 24°C (76°F) and mosquito activity increases after sunset
Waterproof phone case or bag - sudden showers can damage electronics despite brief duration
Insect repellent containing DEET - November's humidity creates ideal mosquito breeding conditions
Quick-dry shorts and shirts - high humidity means clothing takes longer to air dry
Small daypack with waterproof cover - essential for market visits and sudden weather changes
Comfortable closed-toe shoes - for motorcycle taxi rides and uneven market terrain

Insider Knowledge

Visit Niamey between 6-10am when vendors offer free tastings of seasonal fruits and temperatures stay comfortable around 26°C (79°F)
November is when locals harvest palm wine - ask at neighborhood bars for fresh batches that haven't appeared in tourist areas yet
Motorcycle taxi prices increase 25% during November afternoon rains (2-4pm) - plan indoor activities or walking during these hours
Beach vendors sell the year's best grilled fish in November when fishing conditions are optimal - look for smoking setups around 5pm along Ramatou Beach

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 2-4pm when brief but intense showers are most likely - plan museum visits or covered market time instead
Booking accommodations after November 15th when December holiday pricing begins - early November rates are 30-40% lower
Wearing heavy fabrics or dark colors in 70% humidity - locals prefer light cotton and linens for comfort during November's warm days

Activities in Lome