East Timor in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in East Timor

32°C (91°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Peak visibility season for diving and snorkeling - calm seas with 25-30m (82-98 ft) underwater visibility at Cristo Rei and Atauro Island before monsoon season begins
Mango and breadfruit harvest season creates abundant fresh local produce in markets, with prices 30-40% lower than imported goods during this fertile period
Comfortable evening temperatures of 24°C (75°F) make outdoor dining and night markets enjoyable without the oppressive heat of dry season months
Optimal hiking conditions in mornings before 11am when temperatures are 26-28°C (79-82°F) - perfect for Mount Ramelau ascents and Jaco Island treks

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days can disrupt outdoor activities between 2-5pm, requiring flexible scheduling and indoor backup plans
High humidity at 70% makes cotton clothing stick uncomfortably and increases perceived temperature by 3-5°C (5-9°F) above actual readings
UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor time to early morning and late afternoon hours

Best Activities in November

Atauro Island Marine Adventures

November offers the calmest seas before December's rougher conditions begin. Water temperature stays at comfortable 27°C (81°F) with minimal current, making it ideal for both beginner and advanced divers. Whale watching success rates peak at 80% as sperm whales migrate through deeper waters. Morning departures (7am-2pm) avoid afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Reserve 7-10 days ahead through certified dive operators. Full day trips typically cost $45-65 USD including equipment and lunch. Choose operators with safety certifications and check current tour availability in the booking section below.

Dili Sunrise Mountain Biking

Cool morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) create perfect cycling conditions before heat and humidity build. November's drier roads offer better traction than wet season months. Popular routes include Cristo Rei coastal path (12 km/7.5 miles) and Dare Memorial climb (8 km/5 miles vertical).

Booking Tip: Start tours by 6am to finish before 11am heat. Bike rental typically costs $15-25 USD per day. Book through established operators offering quality mountain bikes and safety equipment - see current options in booking section below.

Traditional Coffee Plantation Tours

November marks the beginning of coffee cherry harvest season in Ermera and Ainaro districts. Plantations at 800-1200m (2625-3937 ft) elevation enjoy cooler temperatures and showcase traditional processing methods. Morning visits offer tastings of the new harvest before afternoon rains.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead for authentic plantation experiences. Day trips typically cost $35-50 USD including transport from Dili and tastings. Choose tours that support local cooperative farmers - current plantation tours available through booking section below.

Jaco Island Pristine Beach Exploration

November's moderate rainfall keeps this uninhabited island lush while seas remain calm enough for comfortable boat transfers. The sacred island offers untouched beaches and excellent snorkeling in 28°C (82°F) waters. Morning visits maximize clear weather windows.

Booking Tip: Weather-dependent trips require flexible booking 3-5 days ahead. Full day excursions typically cost $40-60 USD including boat transfer and snorkeling gear. Select operators with weather contingency policies - see available island tours in booking section below.

Maubisse Highland Trekking

November's cooler temperatures at 1400m (4593 ft) elevation create ideal trekking conditions with daytime highs of 22-24°C (72-75°F). Clear morning visibility showcases panoramic views before afternoon clouds roll in. Local guesthouses offer traditional highland cuisine with seasonal vegetables.

Booking Tip: Mountain weather changes rapidly - book guides familiar with November conditions 5-10 days ahead. Multi-day treks cost $25-40 USD per person per day including meals and basic accommodation. Current highland trekking options available through booking section below.

Traditional Tais Weaving Cultural Immersion

November's indoor cultural activities provide perfect rainy afternoon alternatives. Suai and Viqueque regions showcase traditional textile weaving during post-harvest season when artisans have more time for demonstrations. Comfortable humidity levels make workshop participation enjoyable.

Booking Tip: Cultural centers offer half-day workshops for $20-35 USD including materials and instruction. Book 2-3 days ahead through community-based tourism operators. See current cultural workshops and experiences in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

November 12th

Santa Cruz Memorial Commemoration

November 12th marks the anniversary of the 1991 Santa Cruz massacre with memorial services, cultural performances, and educational exhibitions at the Santa Cruz Cemetery in Dili. Local communities gather for remembrance ceremonies and traditional music performances.

Mid to Late November

Coffee Harvest Festivals

Various mountain communities in Ermera, Liquica, and Ainaro celebrate the beginning of coffee harvest season with traditional blessing ceremonies, coffee cupping sessions, and cultural dances. Each district holds celebrations on different weekends throughout the month.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry synthetic shirts and shorts - 70% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable and slow to dry between afternoon showers

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon storms last 30-45 minutes with moderate intensity but high wind

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 causes burns within 15 minutes of unprotected exposure

Closed-toe water shoes for rocky coastlines and reef walking during low tide explorations

Insect repellent with DEET 20%+ for morning and evening outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most active

Portable phone charger and waterproof phone case - afternoon humidity and occasional power outages in remote areas

Lightweight long pants for evening dining and cultural site visits where modest dress is expected

Comfortable hiking boots for mountain treks - trails above 800m (2625 ft) can be muddy and slippery

Small daypack with waterproof liner for daily excursions and protection during sudden downpours

Cash in small USD bills - ATMs are limited outside Dili and many local operators prefer US currency

Insider Knowledge

Local markets in Dili's Comoro area offer the best selection of seasonal fruits like rambutan and mangosteen from 6-8am before tourist buses arrive and prices increase 20-30%

Microlet shared taxis stop running during heavy afternoon rains (usually 2-4pm) - plan indoor activities or arrange private transport for this window

Restaurant portions are typically large enough for two people - ordering one main dish and sharing reduces costs by 40% while supporting the local custom of communal eating

November's shoulder season means government offices and cultural sites maintain regular hours unlike holiday periods - perfect timing for visa extensions or cultural center visits

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 2-5pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely, resulting in cancelled plans and rushed indoor alternatives

Wearing dark cotton clothing that absorbs heat and retains moisture in 70% humidity, causing discomfort during walking tours and cultural visits

Expecting European-style infrastructure reliability during rainy periods - power outages and internet disruptions are common and require flexible planning