Accra in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Accra

32°C (89°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

38 mm (1.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect harmattan winds begin - November marks the start of Ghana's coolest, driest season with humidity dropping from 85% to 70% and refreshing northeastern breezes making outdoor exploration comfortable
Peak cultural season with traditional festivals - November coincides with harvest festivals across Greater Accra, including authentic Ga Homowo celebrations and the spectacular Aboakyir antelope hunt in nearby Winneba
Ideal beach conditions at Labadi and Kokrobite - reduced rainfall means consistent beach days with calmer Atlantic waters and comfortable temperatures for both relaxation and water activities
Photography golden hour extends longer - clearer skies and reduced haze from harmattan winds create exceptional lighting conditions for capturing Accra's busy street life and colonial architecture

Considerations

Dust from Saharan harmattan winds affects air quality - while bringing cooler temperatures, these winds carry fine dust particles that can irritate eyes and respiratory systems, especially for those with allergies
Higher accommodation prices during cultural peak season - November festivals and improved weather drive up hotel rates by 20-30% compared to rainy season months
Increased crowds at major attractions - Minsk, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, and Makola Market become significantly more crowded as both international visitors and domestic tourists increase

Best Activities in November

Cape Coast Castle Historical Tours

November's clearer skies and comfortable temperatures make the 150 km (93 mile) journey to Cape Coast ideal for exploring Ghana's UNESCO World Heritage slave castles. The reduced humidity makes the emotionally intense underground dungeons more bearable, while harmattan winds provide relief during outdoor portions of tours. This is culturally significant as November marks the beginning of traditional remembrance season.

Booking Tip: Book castle tours 7-10 days ahead as November is peak season for heritage tourism. Full-day trips typically cost GHS 300-500 ($25-40) including transport from Accra. Look for licensed guides certified by Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. See current tour options in booking section below.

Shai Hills Wildlife Safari

The harmattan season transforms Shai Hills into prime wildlife viewing territory - animals are more active in cooler morning temperatures, and reduced vegetation makes spotting baboons, ostriches, and antelopes easier. November's clear visibility extends viewing distances up to 15 km (9.3 miles) across the savanna grasslands just 60 km (37 miles) from Accra.

Booking Tip: Early morning departures (6 AM) are essential for optimal wildlife viewing. Day trips typically cost GHS 200-350 ($17-30) including park fees and guide. Book with operators offering insured 4WD vehicles for the rocky terrain. See current safari options in booking section below.

Volta River Traditional Canoe Expeditions

November's stable weather patterns make this the safest month for multi-day river journeys to Akosombo Dam and traditional fishing villages. Water levels are optimal after rainy season completion, while harmattan winds keep insects at bay during evening camping portions. Cultural encounters with riverside communities peak during post-harvest celebration period.

Booking Tip: Multi-day river expeditions cost GHS 800-1,200 ($65-100) per person including camping gear and meals. Book 14-21 days ahead through operators with safety certifications and emergency communication equipment. Single-day canoe trips available for GHS 150-250 ($12-20). See current river tour options in booking section below.

Accra Street Food Walking Tours

November's comfortable evening temperatures and cultural festival season create the perfect storm for authentic street food experiences. Traditional harvest foods like fresh palm nuts, roasted corn, and seasonal fruits peak in availability. The 70% humidity level is ideal for walking 3-5 km (1.9-3.1 miles) through neighborhoods like Jamestown and Osu without excessive sweating.

Booking Tip: Evening food tours (5-9 PM) cost GHS 80-150 ($7-12) per person and cover 8-12 food stops. Book with guides who speak local Ga language for authentic vendor interactions. Avoid tours during midday heat - evening temperatures of 26°C (79°F) are optimal. See current food tour options in booking section below.

Aburi Botanical Gardens Mountain Hiking

The cooler harmattan weather makes the 30 km (18.6 mile) journey to Aburi's 457 m (1,500 ft) elevation incredibly pleasant. November's reduced rainfall means well-maintained hiking trails through Ghana's oldest Botanical Gardens, established in 1890. Morning temperatures at altitude drop to comfortable 22°C (72°F), perfect for exploring rare indigenous plant species and canopy walks.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips to Aburi typically cost GHS 120-200 ($10-17) including transport and entrance fees. Go early morning (7 AM departure) to avoid afternoon crowds and heat. Look for operators offering stops at traditional Aburi wood carving villages. See current mountain tour options in booking section below.

Lake Volta Houseboat Cultural Immersion

November marks the beginning of fishing festival season on the world's largest artificial lake. Traditional fishing communities celebrate successful harvests while water levels remain stable from rainy season. Overnight houseboat experiences offer authentic cultural exchange with Ewe and Akan fishing families, enhanced by comfortable sleeping conditions in November's moderate nighttime temperatures.

Booking Tip: Houseboat experiences cost GHS 400-650 ($33-55) per person for overnight trips including meals and cultural activities. Book through community-based tourism operators 10-14 days ahead. Single-day lake tours available for GHS 180-280 ($15-23). See current Lake Volta options in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Ga Homowo Festival Extension Celebrations

While main Homowo occurs earlier, November features extended celebrations in Greater Accra communities. Traditional drumming, dancing, and sharing of kpokpoi (traditional corn dish) continues in neighborhoods like Teshie and Nungua. Authentic cultural immersion opportunity with minimal tourist crowds.

Early November

Winneba Aboakyir Antelope Festival

One of Ghana's most spectacular traditional festivals occurs in nearby Winneba, 60 km (37 miles) from Accra. Two competing groups hunt live antelopes in ritualistic ceremony dating back 500 years. The festival includes colorful parades, traditional music, and authentic cultural performances rarely seen by international visitors.

Throughout November

Independence Square National Remembrance Events

November hosts various remembrance ceremonies and cultural performances at Black Star Square. These events commemorate Ghana's independence struggle and feature military parades, traditional dances, and speeches by national leaders. Excellent opportunity to witness Ghanaian patriotic culture firsthand.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight dust masks or bandanas - harmattan winds carry Saharan dust particles that can irritate airways and eyes, especially during early morning and evening hours

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index of 8 combined with harmattan's clear skies creates intense sun exposure, particularly dangerous near Labadi Beach's reflective sand

Moisture-rich eye drops and lip balm - 70% humidity combined with dust-laden winds quickly dries mucous membranes, causing discomfort during outdoor activities

Breathable cotton long-sleeves for evening - while days reach 32°C (89°F), evening temperatures drop to 24°C (76°F) with cool harmattan breezes making light layers essential

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - November's occasional 38mm (1.5 inches) of rainfall creates slippery surfaces on Accra's concrete sidewalks and market floors

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - brief afternoon showers occur 10 days in November, typically lasting 15-30 minutes but intense enough to soak through cotton clothing

Power bank and waterproof phone case - exploring 3-5 km (1.9-3.1 mile) walking routes in neighborhoods like Osu and Jamestown requires navigation apps and photography capabilities

Cash in small denominations - street food vendors and tro-tro transport operators rarely accept cards, typical meals cost GHS 5-15 ($0.40-1.25) requiring exact change

Insect repellent with DEET - while harmattan reduces mosquito activity, early evening hours around 6-7 PM still see increased insect activity in coastal areas

Reusable water bottle with filter - staying hydrated in 32°C (89°F) heat requires 3-4 liters daily, while filtered water reduces risk from inconsistent tap water quality in some neighborhoods

Insider Knowledge

November shopping advantage - local markets like Makola and Kaneshie overflow with fresh harvest produce. Palm nuts, plantains, and yams cost 30-40% less than imported options. Locals buy palm oil directly from producers during this season for year-round cooking needs.

Transportation timing secrets - tro-tro shared taxis run most efficiently 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM when commuter demand fills vehicles quickly. Outside these hours, expect 15-20 minute waits. AC buses to Cape Coast depart hourly from Kaneshie station, but locals book 6 AM departure for coolest travel conditions.

Festival etiquette that locals appreciate - bring small gifts like kola nuts (available at any market for GHS 2-5) when attending traditional ceremonies. Remove shoes before entering shrine areas, and always ask permission before photographing ritual activities. Chiefs and elders should be greeted with both hands extended.

Hidden cultural experience - November evenings feature impromptu drumming sessions at Labadi Beach around sunset (6:30 PM). Local Ga communities gather for traditional performances that tourists rarely discover. Bring small bills to appreciate musicians - GHS 5-10 contributions are customary and deeply appreciated.

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating harmattan dust impact - tourists often skip eye protection and suffer painful irritation during outdoor activities. Always carry sunglasses and flush eyes with clean water after dust exposure, particularly after visits to Minsk or coastal areas where winds are strongest.

Overpacking rain gear for November - while 10 rainy days sounds significant, November showers are brief afternoon affairs lasting 15-30 minutes. Heavy rain jackets and waterproof boots are unnecessary and create overheating in 32°C (89°F) temperatures.

Missing cultural protocol at November festivals - visitors often wear shorts and tank tops to traditional ceremonies, which is considered disrespectful. Cover shoulders and knees, avoid bright colors that compete with ceremonial dress, and never photograph without explicit permission from organizers.