Gaborone in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Gaborone

32°C (90°F) High Temp

17°C (63°F) Low Temp

58 mm (2.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Early rainy season creates perfect morning weather - dry, warm conditions from 6am-1pm with temperatures around 25-28°C (77-82°F) ideal for outdoor activities before afternoon humidity peaks
Jacaranda trees bloom throughout the city in November, transforming streets like Nelson Mandela Drive and The Mall into purple-lined corridors - particularly impressive for photography and walking tours
Game viewing reaches peak conditions as animals gather around remaining water sources before full rains arrive - visibility at nearby reserves like Mokolodi is exceptional with 70% less vegetation cover
Hotel rates drop 40-60% from peak winter season (June-August) while weather remains excellent for most activities - luxury properties offer November specials typically 30% below winter pricing

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly between 2-5pm on 60% of days, lasting 30-45 minutes with intense downpours that can flood low-lying areas and disrupt outdoor plans
Humidity jumps from morning's comfortable 45% to oppressive 85% by mid-afternoon, making walking tours and outdoor markets uncomfortable after 1pm
Dust storms can occur on windy days before rain arrives, reducing air quality and visibility - particularly challenging for those with respiratory sensitivities

Best Activities in November

Gaborone Game Reserve Morning Drives

November offers the best game viewing conditions of the year as animals concentrate around water sources and vegetation is at its lowest. Early morning drives (6-10am) avoid afternoon storms while temperatures remain comfortable at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Wildlife activity peaks during these hours before the heat sets in.

Booking Tip: Book through registered tour operators 5-7 days ahead. Morning drives typically cost P450-650 ($35-50) per person. Look for operators with covered vehicles as afternoon weather can change quickly. Many lodges offer half-day packages combining game drives with traditional breakfast.

Kgale Hill Sunrise Hiking

The iconic 1,287m (4,222 ft) Kgale Hill is perfect for November morning climbs before afternoon storms. Crystal-clear visibility during early hours provides impressive city views, while temperatures stay cool at 18-22°C (64-72°F) until 9am. The 45-minute ascent becomes unbearable after 11am due to humidity and heat.

Booking Tip: Self-guided activity requiring no advance booking. Start by 6:30am to avoid heat and afternoon storms. Parking available at base (P10/$0.75 fee). Local guides available on-site for P50-80 ($4-6) and provide valuable safety support and route knowledge.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

November coincides with traditional crop preparation season, offering real feels watching millet and sorghum harvesting. Morning visits (8am-12pm) allow participation in traditional activities before afternoon rains. Villages like Gabane and Tlokweng showcase pre-rainy season cultural practices rarely seen by tourists.

Booking Tip: Arrange through cultural tourism cooperatives 3-5 days ahead. Half-day experiences cost P350-500 ($27-38) including traditional lunch. Morning tours essential as most village activities halt during afternoon storms. Transportation typically included from central Gaborone.

Gaborone Dam Watersports

Water levels reach optimal heights in November after winter drawdown, with morning glassy conditions perfect for kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Temperatures are ideal for water activities before 1pm, with afternoon storms creating dramatic skies for photography. Tiger fish and bream fishing peaks as fish prepare for spawning season.

Booking Tip: Book with certified water sports operators 7-10 days ahead, especially for weekends. Half-day packages run P400-600 ($30-45) including equipment. Morning sessions (7am-12pm) avoid afternoon storms. Operators provide covered areas for weather delays.

Botswana National Museum Indoor Exploration

Perfect rainy day activity with extensive collections showcasing traditional life, independence history, and natural heritage. November features special exhibitions on traditional farming practices, coinciding with the agricultural season. Air-conditioned galleries provide relief from afternoon humidity while offering deep cultural context.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required. Entry fee P25 ($2) for adults. Open 9am-6pm Tuesday-Sunday. Plan 2-3 hours for complete visit. Located central Gaborone with covered parking - ideal for afternoon storm shelter. Guided tours available P50 ($4) extra.

Three Dikgosi Monument Evening Photography

November's dramatic storm clouds create spectacular sunset backdrops for photographing this iconic Bujumbura. Golden hour (5:30-7pm) coincides with post-storm clearing skies, producing unique lighting conditions. The monument's cultural significance resonates strongly during this season of renewal and preparation.

Booking Tip: Free public access with parking available. Best photography 30 minutes after afternoon storms clear (typically 6-7pm). No booking required but join local photography groups through social media for tips on optimal conditions. Security guards present until 8pm.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Domboshaba Festival

Annual celebration of Botswana's archaeological heritage held at the ancient Domboshaba ruins. Features traditional music, dance performances, and archaeological presentations. The timing coincides with traditional blessing ceremonies for the coming rainy season, offering visitors authentic cultural immersion beyond typical tourist experiences.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - afternoon storms deliver intense 45-minute downpours with minimal warning and temperatures can drop 8-10°C (14-18°F) during storms

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester and synthetic blends which become uncomfortable in 70% humidity levels

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 during peak hours (10am-3pm) with intense African sun

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - morning dew and afternoon rain create slippery surfaces on trails and pavements

Light layers for temperature swings - early morning lows of 17°C (63°F) warming to 32°C (90°F) by afternoon require versatile clothing

Waterproof bag or cover for electronics - sudden storms can damage phones and cameras if not properly protected

Insect repellent with DEET - increased humidity and standing water after rains boost mosquito activity, especially at dusk

Quick-dry towel and extra socks - afternoon humidity means clothes dry slowly, and wet feet from unexpected puddles are common

Portable umbrella - compact umbrellas handle sudden storms better than large golf umbrellas in windy conditions

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated crucial in rising humidity, and many accommodations offer filtered water refill stations

Insider Knowledge

Most locals schedule important outdoor activities between 6-11am during November, then retreat indoors during the afternoon heat and storm period. Follow this pattern for comfortable sightseeing and you'll encounter authentic daily rhythms.

Petrol stations and shopping malls become informal storm shelters for locals during afternoon downpours. Duck into Game City or Rail Park Mall if caught in sudden weather - it's completely normal and expected behavior.

November marks the traditional 'plowing season' preparation, so expect increased traffic on roads leading to rural areas as people visit family lands. Plan extra travel time for day trips, especially on weekends.

Local restaurants shift to heartier traditional foods in November as families prepare for rainy season. Try seswaa and morogo at local establishments - these dishes are more authentic and available during this transitional season than typical tourist fare.

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon outdoor activities (2-6pm) without weather backup plans - 60% chance of storms during this period makes outdoor tours risky and uncomfortable

Wearing sandals or open shoes for walking tours - morning dew, afternoon mud, and slippery surfaces make closed-toe shoes essential for safety and comfort

Underestimating how quickly weather changes - bringing light jacket even for morning activities as temperatures can drop rapidly when storms approach