Yamoussoukro in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Yamoussoukro

87°F (31°C) High Temp

68°F (20°C) Low Temp

1.4 inches (36 mm) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season timing - fewer crowds at the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (only 200-300 daily visitors vs 600+ in dry season) with comfortable morning temperatures of 68-75°F (20-24°C) for photography
Lush green landscapes after October rains - the Bangui gardens and surrounding savanna are at their most photogenic, with baobab trees in full foliage and busy contrast for photography
Lower accommodation rates - hotel prices drop 25-40% compared to December-February peak season, with luxury options like Hotel Président starting around $85-120/night instead of $150+
Optimal driving conditions to nearby attractions - roads to Abidjan (240 km/149 miles) are in excellent condition post-rainy season maintenance, with clear visibility and moderate traffic

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days throughout the month - typically 2-3pm lasting 30-45 minutes, which can disrupt outdoor basilica tours and Bangui visits
High humidity levels at 70% make midday exploration uncomfortable - temperatures feel like 95°F (35°C) between 11am-3pm, requiring strategic timing of outdoor activities
Limited evening entertainment options - most local restaurants close by 9pm, and cultural performances are infrequent compared to festival months in December-January

Best Activities in November

Basilica of Our Lady of Peace guided tours

November's cooler mornings (68-75°F/20-24°C) make the 30-minute basilica tour comfortable, with fewer crowds allowing better access to the dome elevator and interior photography. The contrast between the modern architecture and lush post-rainy season surroundings creates impressive photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours 5-7 days ahead through the basilica office. Tours cost 2,000-3,000 CFA francs ($3-5) and run every hour from 8am-4pm. Morning slots (8-10am) offer the best lighting and coolest temperatures. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Presidential palace and Crocodile Lake visits

The artificial lake behind the Bangui is most impressive in November when water levels are high from recent rains. Sacred crocodiles are more active in the moderate temperatures, and the surrounding gardens are lush green. Best visited early morning when crocodiles bask on shores.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for lake viewing (free), but Bangui exterior tours cost 1,500-2,500 CFA francs ($2.50-4). Local guides available on-site 7am-5pm. Avoid midday heat - optimal viewing times are 7-9am and 4-6pm.

Traditional village cultural experiences

November coincides with post-harvest cultural activities in nearby Baoulé villages (15-25 km/9-16 miles from city center). Cooler evening temperatures make traditional dance performances and craft workshops more comfortable for visitors unfamiliar with tropical heat.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local cultural centers 3-5 days ahead. Half-day village experiences typically cost 8,000-15,000 CFA francs ($13-25) including transport and meals. Most real feels are in villages like Akoupé and Toumodi, 30-45 minutes drive from Yamoussoukro.

Yamoussoukro to Abidjan road trip exploration

November offers ideal conditions for the scenic 240 km (149 mile) drive to Abidjan, with clear post-rainy season roads and lush forest canopy. Perfect for exploring cocoa plantations and traditional markets in towns like Tiébissou and Toumodi along the way.

Booking Tip: Car rentals typically cost 25,000-40,000 CFA francs ($40-65) per day with driver, or 15,000-25,000 CFA francs ($25-40) self-drive. Book through hotel concierge services 7-10 days ahead. Fuel costs approximately 8,000 CFA francs ($13) for round trip.

Local market and street food tours

November's moderate humidity makes walking through bustling local markets more pleasant. This is mango season, and local specialties like attiéké (cassava couscous) and grilled fish are at their freshest. Evening food tours (5-8pm) avoid midday heat while experiencing authentic Baoulé cuisine.

Booking Tip: Self-guided market visits are free, but guided food tours cost 5,000-10,000 CFA francs ($8-16) per person for 3-4 hours including tastings. Local guides available at major markets from 6am-8pm. Evening tours (5-8pm) offer cooler temperatures and more food variety.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November weekends

Baoulé Harvest Celebrations

Traditional thanksgiving ceremonies in surrounding villages celebrate the end of cocoa and yam harvests. Features authentic drum performances, traditional dance, and communal feasts with locally grown foods. Most villages hold celebrations on weekends throughout November.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms last 30-45 minutes but can be intense, and you'll want protection when visiting outdoor attractions

Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester which traps heat in 70% humidity conditions, making the 87°F (31°C) feel much hotter

Sturdy walking shoes with good grip - post-rainy season surfaces around the basilica and Bangui can be slippery on stone walkways

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even during partly cloudy conditions, and reflection off the white basilica intensifies exposure

Moisture-wicking socks and underwear - essential for comfort during humid mornings (75-80% humidity before 10am)

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes are more active after recent rains, especially around Crocodile Lake and village areas

Portable phone charger - humidity can drain battery faster, and you'll want full power for basilica interior photography

Light cotton scarf - useful for temple visits and protection from air conditioning in hotels and restaurants

Cash in small CFA franc denominations - most local guides and market vendors don't accept cards or large bills

Electrolyte tablets or powder - easy to become dehydrated in humid conditions, especially during afternoon outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Visit the basilica dome elevator between 8-9am - locals know this is when the morning haze lifts but afternoon clouds haven't formed, offering the clearest panoramic views of the city and Bangui grounds

Eat lunch at local 'maquis' (outdoor restaurants) between 12-1pm when they serve the freshest attiéké and grilled fish - tourists usually miss this peak serving time by eating at hotel restaurants instead

November is when locals harvest palm wine from nearby villages - ask your hotel concierge about authentic palm wine tasting experiences (typically 2,000-3,000 CFA francs/$3-5) that aren't advertised to tourists

The Bangui grounds are most accessible on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 8-11am) when security is relaxed and you can get closer to the exterior gates for photos - avoid weekends when it's completely restricted

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when humidity makes 87°F (31°C) feel like 95°F (35°C) - locals retreat indoors during these hours and you should too

Wearing dark clothing which absorbs heat and shows sweat stains prominently in humid conditions - light colors reflect heat and are more comfortable for walking tours

Not carrying small CFA franc bills - most local experiences, guides, and market vendors can't break large denominations, and credit cards aren't widely accepted outside major hotels