Roseau in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Roseau

31°C (87°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season with 8+ hours daily sunshine despite 10 rain days - showers are brief tropical bursts that cool temperatures and create dramatic lighting for photography
Post-hurricane season stability means consistently calm seas (wave heights under 1m/3ft) ideal for diving, snorkeling, and whale watching without motion sickness concerns
Humpback whale migration peak - 90% sighting success rates for tours departing between 7-10am when seas are glassy smooth
Tourist crowds 40% lower than December-March peak season, meaning no booking queues for Titou Gorge, better photo opportunities at Emerald Pool, and easier parking at Dominica

Considerations

Brief afternoon thunderstorms (2-4pm) occur 60% of days, lasting 20-45 minutes with heavy downpours that can flood some coastal roads temporarily
Higher humidity (70%) makes hiking feel more strenuous - trails like Dominica require 30% more water and electrolytes than dry season attempts
Some mountain roads become muddy and slippery after rain, requiring 4WD vehicles for destinations like Freshwater Lake and requiring extra travel time

Best Activities in November

Whale Watching Tours

November is peak humpback whale migration season with 90% sighting success rates. Calm post-hurricane season seas (waves under 1m/3ft) make for comfortable 3-4 hour tours. Best departure times are 7-10am when seas are glassy. Tours typically spot mothers with calves, breaching, and tail slapping behaviors most active in morning hours.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead for morning departures (highest success rates). Tours cost typically US$65-85 per person including equipment. Look for operators with hydrophones for whale song listening and certified marine biologists as guides. Reference booking widget for current tour options with live availability.

Rainforest Canopy Tours and Zip-lining

November's variable weather creates perfect canopy conditions - occasional light mist adds mystical atmosphere while brief afternoon showers cool temperatures for comfortable harness wear. Post-rain forest comes alive with increased bird activity and fresh scents. Cloud cover reduces harsh shadows for better wildlife photography.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots (8am-12pm) to avoid afternoon rain windows. Tours typically cost US$45-70 including all safety equipment. Choose operators with covered platforms for weather protection and multiple route options. Book 5-7 days ahead for preferred time slots through certified adventure tour companies.

Diving and Snorkeling Expeditions

Post-hurricane season brings excellent underwater visibility (25-30m/80-100ft) and calm conditions perfect for both beginners and advanced divers. Water temperature holds steady at 28°C (82°F). November offers best conditions for Champagne Reef's bubble diving and Scott's Head Marine Reserve without strong currents.

Booking Tip: Two-tank dives typically cost US$85-120, snorkeling trips US$40-60. Book 10-14 days ahead for weekend slots. Look for PADI-certified operators with recent safety certifications and modern equipment. Morning departures (8-9am) offer best visibility before any afternoon weather changes.

Waterfall and Hot Springs Tours

November's occasional rain keeps waterfalls at optimal flow without dangerous flood levels. Dominica, Emerald Pool, and Zimbabwe offer perfect swimming conditions with refreshing natural pools. Hot springs like Screw's Saint Lucia provide perfect contrast to cooling rain showers.

Booking Tip: Half-day waterfall tours typically cost US$35-55 including transportation and guide. Book morning tours (8am starts) to complete before afternoon rain windows. Choose tours combining multiple falls with hot springs for weather flexibility. Guided tours recommended for proper trail navigation after rain.

Cultural Walking Tours and Market Visits

November timing coincides with post-harvest celebrations and preparation for Independence Day festivities. Roseau Market bustles with seasonal produce like breadfruit, dasheen, and fresh spices. Walking tours can easily duck into covered areas during brief afternoon showers, making this perfect weather-flexible activity.

Booking Tip: Walking tours typically cost US$25-40 for 2-3 hours including market tastings. Best timing is 9am-12pm before afternoon heat and potential rain. Book with guides who include covered market visits and indoor cultural sites for weather protection. Friday and Saturday market days offer most variety.

Botanical Gardens and Nature Walks

November's mix of sun and rain creates ideal botanical conditions with lush growth and active wildlife. Dominica Botanic Gardens showcase peak flowering of many species. Nature walks benefit from cooled post-rain temperatures and increased bird activity during clear periods between weather changes.

Booking Tip: Garden entrance typically costs US$3-5, guided nature walks US$20-35. Plan flexible timing around weather - gardens provide covered areas and pavilions. Best photography light occurs just after rain showers. Choose guided walks that include multiple indoor/covered stops for weather protection.

November Events & Festivals

November 3rd and surrounding weekend

Independence Day Celebrations

November 3rd marks Dominica's Independence Day with parades, cultural performances, traditional food festivals, and calypso competitions throughout Roseau. Street parties feature local bands, traditional quadrille dancing, and authentic Dominican cuisine. The celebration extends over the long weekend with various cultural events.

First Monday in November

Community Day Festival

First Monday in November features Community Day celebrations with village festivals across the island. Local communities showcase traditional crafts, organize hiking groups to waterfalls, and host communal meals. Excellent opportunity to experience authentic Dominican culture outside tourist areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon storms bring 15-20 minute downpours with 70% humidity making waterproof-breathable fabrics essential

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index of 8 means burns in 15 minutes, plus marine park regulations require eco-friendly formulas

Moisture-wicking hiking shirts in light colors - 70% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable, synthetic blends dry quickly after rain exposure

Waterproof hiking boots with aggressive tread - trails become slippery clay after rain, ankle support crucial for uneven volcanic terrain

Dry bags in multiple sizes - essential for electronics, documents, and spare clothes during boat tours and hiking in variable weather

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - post-rain conditions increase mosquito activity, especially near waterfalls and forest areas

Portable power bank in waterproof case - humidity and brief power outages during storms make backup power essential for devices

Lightweight long pants for evening - temperature drops to 23°C (73°F) and long sleeves provide mosquito protection during sunset hours

Microfiber towel - regular towels won't dry in 70% humidity, microfiber essential for quick drying between activities

Water shoes with drainage - rocky coastlines and waterfall pools require foot protection, drainage crucial for comfort in wet conditions

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations on hillsides rather than coastal areas - better drainage during rain, cooler temperatures, and impressive post-storm rainbow views over the Caribbean Sea

Carry EC dollars in small bills - many tour operators, market vendors, and local transport prefer cash, and credit card machines often fail during brief power outages from storms

Plan indoor alternatives for 2-4pm daily - this is peak thunderstorm window, perfect time for museum visits, covered market exploration, or spa treatments at hotels

Local buses (called 'H' plates) increase frequency during clear weather windows - flag them down immediately after rain stops for cheapest transportation between towns

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 1pm without weather contingency plans - afternoon storms are predictable and can strand hikers on mountain trails

Bringing only cotton clothing expecting tropical heat - 70% humidity means cotton stays wet all day, causing chafing and discomfort during activities

Underestimating driving times in November - wet roads require slower speeds, and some mountain routes become temporarily impassable during heavy downpours