Bamako in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Bamako

35°C (95°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration - mornings start at 18°C (64°F), ideal for walking markets and historic sites before the afternoon heat peaks
Post-rainy season clarity means the Niger River is at its most photogenic, with clear views from Pont des Martyrs and optimal conditions for river tours
Festival season begins - locals celebrate the end of rainy season with increased cultural activities, traditional music performances, and artisan market displays
Dust levels are minimal compared to December-March, making photography and outdoor dining significantly more comfortable

Considerations

Afternoon temperatures can spike to 35°C (95°F) making midday sightseeing uncomfortable - you'll need 2-3 hour indoor breaks daily
Humidity at 70% means clothes feel damp and sticky, especially synthetic fabrics - cotton and linen are essential but take longer to dry
Intermittent power outages are more frequent as the city transitions from rainy season infrastructure stress - backup plans for air conditioning are crucial

Best Activities in November

Niger River Cultural Boat Tours

November's post-rainy season offers the clearest river views and optimal water levels. Traditional pinasse boats navigate easily, and riverside villages are accessible. Morning departures at 7am capitalize on cool temperatures and golden light. Water temperature is perfect for brief stops.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed river guides. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA per person for half-day trips. Look for operators with life jackets and covered boats. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Grand Marché and Artisan Quarter Walking Tours

Cool mornings (18-22°C/64-72°F) make market exploration comfortable before 10am. November brings post-harvest celebrations, meaning markets are full of seasonal textiles, crafts, and foods. The dust hasn't yet settled from dry season, keeping visibility high for photography.

Booking Tip: Self-guided or book local cultural guides 2-3 days ahead. Guided tours range 8,000-15,000 CFA for 3-4 hours. Start by 8am latest. Licensed guides carry city identification and know market vendor partnerships.

Traditional Music and Dance Venue Tours

November marks the beginning of Mali's premier music season. Venues like Palais de la Culture host more frequent performances as artists prepare for festival season. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable levels perfect for outdoor concerts and traditional performances.

Booking Tip: Book performance tickets 1-2 weeks ahead through cultural centers. Evening events typically cost 5,000-12,000 CFA. Look for venues with covered areas for occasional light rain. Check current performances in booking section below.

National Museum and Historical Site Tours

Indoor cultural activities are essential during November's hot afternoons. The Banjul's air conditioning provides relief while showcasing Mali's heritage. Combine with nearby sites during cooler morning or late afternoon hours.

Booking Tip: Museum entry typically 2,000-3,000 CFA. Private cultural guides cost 10,000-20,000 CFA for half-day historical tours. Book guides through museum or cultural ministry contacts. No advance booking needed for entry.

Bamako Hills and Point G Observatory Excursions

November's clear post-rainy season skies offer exceptional city views from Point G and surrounding hills. Cooler morning temperatures make the climbs manageable. Avoid midday - start by 7am or after 4pm when temperatures drop below 30°C (86°F).

Booking Tip: Self-guided or hire local guides for 5,000-8,000 CFA. Bring 2-3 liters of water per person. Four-wheel drive vehicles available for 25,000-35,000 CFA including driver. See current transport options in booking section below.

Traditional Textile and Craft Workshop Visits

November's moderate humidity (70%) is ideal for visiting working textile workshops without the extreme dryness that affects fabric handling later in the dry season. Many artisans increase production preparing for holiday and festival seasons.

Booking Tip: Arrange visits through artisan associations 3-5 days ahead. Workshop visits typically cost 3,000-8,000 CFA per person. Half-day experiences including hands-on activities range 12,000-20,000 CFA. Morning visits recommended before heat peaks.

November Events & Festivals

Mid to Late November

Festival des Arts et de la Culture

Annual celebration marking the end of rainy season with traditional music, dance, and artisan displays throughout the city. Local musicians perform in various venues, and craft markets expand their offerings.

Variable based on lunar calendar

Tabaski Preparation Markets

If Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) falls in November or early December, special markets and cultural preparations begin mid-month. Traditional clothing, decorative items, and ceremonial goods fill expanded market areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing only - avoid polyester or synthetic blends in 70% humidity as they become uncomfortable quickly

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with minimal cloud cover in post-rainy season

Light rain jacket or umbrella - brief afternoon showers occur 10 days in November, typically lasting 20-30 minutes

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with breathable fabric - essential for dusty market floors and uneven historic district streets

Portable fan or cooling towel - indoor spaces may lack air conditioning during afternoon temperatures of 35°C (95°F)

Water purification tablets or reliable water bottles - increased fluid needs due to heat and humidity

Mosquito repellent with DEET - post-rainy season means higher mosquito activity in evening hours

Power bank and universal adapter - electricity fluctuations are common during seasonal transition period

Loose-fitting long sleeves for cultural sites - many venues require covered arms, and light fabric provides sun protection

Quick-dry underwear and socks - humidity means longer drying times for all clothing items

Insider Knowledge

Schedule indoor activities between 11am-4pm when outdoor temperatures peak - locals retreat to air-conditioned spaces or covered markets during this time

November is when seasonal fruits like mangoes start appearing in markets - prices are high but quality is exceptional as early harvest begins

The CFA franc exchange rate is often more favorable in November as tourist season hasn't peaked - change money at official banks for better rates

Local buses and shared taxis are less crowded in November mornings before 8am - optimal time for reaching markets and cultural sites

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing during midday hours (11am-4pm) when temperatures reach 35°C (95°F) - locals avoid this time entirely

Packing only synthetic clothing thinking it will dry faster - cotton and linen are essential for comfort in 70% humidity

Assuming rain gear is unnecessary because rainfall is low - brief intense showers still occur 10 days per month and can soak you completely