Things to Do in Mozambique in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Mozambique
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Green season transformation - November marks the start of the rains, turning the landscape spectacularly lush after months of dry conditions. The bush comes alive, migratory birds arrive in huge numbers, and wildlife viewing actually improves as animals become more active with the cooler mornings and fresh vegetation
- Significantly lower prices across the board - you're looking at 30-40% discounts on lodges compared to the July-October peak season. Beach resorts in the Bazaruto and Quirimbas archipelagos drop their rates substantially, and you'll have far more negotiating power for multi-night stays
- Dramatically fewer tourists - the South African school holiday crowds have gone home, and you'll often have entire beaches, dive sites, and snorkeling spots virtually to yourself. Resorts that were fully booked in August now have maybe 20-30% occupancy
- Perfect marine conditions in the early part of the month - the first two weeks of November typically offer excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling (20-30m or 65-100ft) before the rains really kick in. Water temperatures are still warm at 24-26°C (75-79°F), and you're catching the tail end of whale shark season in Tofo
Considerations
- Increasing rainfall and humidity as the month progresses - early November might see 2-3 rainy days, but by late November you're looking at rain 40-50% of days. These are usually afternoon thunderstorms lasting 1-2 hours rather than all-day drizzle, but they can disrupt boat transfers to islands and make dirt roads temporarily impassable
- Some lodges and dive operators close for the season - particularly in more remote areas like the Quirimbas, certain properties shut down from mid-November through December for maintenance. Always confirm your specific lodge or operator is open before booking
- Increased malaria risk with the onset of rains - November sees mosquito populations surge as standing water appears. You'll need to be more vigilant about prophylaxis and repellent compared to the dry winter months, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas
Best Activities in November
Bazaruto Archipelago island hopping and marine activities
Early November is actually ideal for exploring this stunning chain of islands before the full wet season arrives. Water visibility is still excellent at 15-25m (50-82ft), and you'll encounter far fewer boats at popular snorkeling sites like Two Mile Reef. The dhow sailing conditions are perfect - consistent winds without the choppiness that comes later in the rainy season. Dugong sightings peak during this transition period as seagrass beds flourish with the first rains.
Tofo Beach diving and whale shark encounters
November sits right at the transition between whale shark season (which peaks September-October) and manta ray season (December-April), so you've got a decent shot at both if you time it right. The first half of November still sees occasional whale sharks, while early manta arrivals start appearing. Visibility ranges 10-20m (33-66ft) - not the absolute best, but perfectly adequate for the incredible marine life. Water temperature is a comfortable 24-26°C (75-79°F), so a 3mm wetsuit is plenty.
Gorongosa National Park wildlife safaris
This is when Gorongosa truly shines - the transformation from dry season to green season happens rapidly in November, and the wildlife viewing is exceptional. Elephants and buffalo congregate around remaining water sources in early November before dispersing with the rains, making them easier to spot. The birdlife explodes with migrants arriving - you're looking at 400+ species active this month. Morning temperatures are pleasant at 20-24°C (68-75°F) before the midday heat, and the afternoon storms create dramatic photographic conditions.
Quirimbas Archipelago kayaking and cultural island visits
The northern Quirimbas offer a completely different vibe from Bazaruto - more remote, more cultural, and spectacularly beautiful as the mangroves green up with November rains. Sea kayaking between islands is fantastic in early November with calm morning conditions, and you can visit traditional fishing villages on islands like Ibo with its crumbling Portuguese colonial architecture. The humidity sits around 70-75%, but morning paddling (6-10am) before the heat builds is genuinely pleasant.
Maputo city cultural exploration and Ponta do Ouro day trips
Maputo comes alive in November as the heat builds and the city's outdoor cafe culture shifts to early morning and evening hours. The jacaranda trees start blooming toward month-end, creating purple-lined streets throughout the city center. It's an excellent base for exploring the Iron House designed by Eiffel, the Central Market, and the revitalized waterfront, then escaping to Ponta do Ouro (2.5 hours or 120km/75 miles south) for excellent diving and dolphin encounters in still-clear waters.
Niassa Reserve wilderness walking safaris
For serious safari enthusiasts, Niassa in November offers one of Africa's most authentic wilderness experiences. This massive reserve (42,000 sq km or 16,000 sq miles) sees maybe a few dozen tourists all month. The walking safaris are exceptional as temperatures moderate with cloud cover and early rains, making 3-4 hour walks genuinely comfortable in the 24-28°C (75-82°F) morning temperatures. Wildlife concentrations around the Lugenda River are excellent, and you'll see virtually no other visitors.
November Events & Festivals
Maputo Music Festival (Festival de Música de Maputo)
Typically held in early November, this multi-day event showcases Mozambican and Southern African musicians across various venues in Maputo. You'll hear everything from traditional marrabenta to contemporary Afro-fusion. It's not heavily touristed - mostly locals and expats - which makes it feel authentic. Venues include the Franco-Mozambican Cultural Center and various outdoor stages around the city.