Khartoum in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Khartoum

35°C (96°F) High Temp

22°C (71°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Post-rainy season clarity makes November perfect for Blue and Juba photography - visibility reaches 15 km (9.3 miles) on most days compared to 5 km (3.1 miles) during summer haze
Cooler evenings at 22°C (71°F) allow comfortable exploration of Souq al-Arabi after 5pm when temperatures drop and vendors become more negotiable with prices
November marks prime archaeological season - excavation sites like Sudan Pyramids operate full schedules with expert guides available daily instead of limited summer hours
Traditional coffee ceremony season peaks in November when families gather outdoors - temperatures are ideal for participating in 2-3 hour ceremonies that would be unbearable in summer heat

Considerations

Sandstorms can still occur 3-4 days per month in November, drastically reducing visibility to under 100 m (328 ft) and forcing indoor activities for 6-12 hour periods
Tourist infrastructure remains limited post-conflict - many international hotel chains still closed, requiring advance booking at local establishments that may lack consistent power during 35°C (96°F) afternoon peaks
November sits at the tail end of malaria season with standing water from recent rains - mosquito activity peaks between 6-9pm requiring diligent protection measures

Best Activities in November

Nile Confluence Boat Tours

November's clear skies and 22°C (71°F) morning temperatures make this the ideal month to witness where Blue and Juba rivers merge. Water levels stabilize post-flood season, creating perfect conditions for photography and swimming stops. Morning tours (7-10am) avoid afternoon heat peaks.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed river operators. Tours typically cost 8,000-15,000 SDG per person. Look for boats with shade covers and life jackets. Reference booking widget below for current tour availability.

Meroe Archaeological Site Visits

November marks peak excavation season with comfortable 28°C (82°F) midday temperatures for pyramid exploration. Archaeological teams are active, offering insights unavailable other months. The 200 km (124 mile) journey north becomes pleasant with cooler weather and clear roads post-rainy season.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips typically cost 25,000-40,000 SDG including transport and guide. Book 10-14 days ahead as vehicle availability is limited. Ensure 4WD vehicles for desert sections. See current tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Souq Cultural Immersion

November evenings create perfect conditions for extended souq exploration. After 4pm, temperatures drop to comfortable levels and local activity peaks. Spice vendors, traditional craftsmen, and tea houses operate full schedules. November coincides with pre-winter stocking season, offering wider merchandise selection.

Booking Tip: Cultural walking tours typically cost 5,000-10,000 SDG for 3-4 hours. Book through cultural centers or guesthouses. Look for guides who speak local Arabic dialects. Morning tours (8-11am) best for avoiding heat.

Blue Nile Sailing Excursions

November's consistent winds and stable weather patterns create ideal sailing conditions on the Sudan. Traditional felucca boats operate comfortable sunset trips starting at 4pm when temperatures cool to 28°C (82°F). Clear skies provide excellent visibility for wildlife spotting along riverbanks.

Booking Tip: Half-day sailing typically costs 12,000-20,000 SDG per boat (up to 6 people). Book through riverside operators in Khartoum North. Ensure boats have updated safety equipment. Reference current options in booking widget below.

Sudanese Cooking Class Experiences

November's moderate temperatures make outdoor cooking classes feasible. Traditional dishes like kisra and ful medames are prepared using seasonal ingredients available post-harvest. Classes often include market visits in comfortable morning temperatures before 11am heat peaks.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes typically cost 8,000-15,000 SDG including ingredients and meal. Book through cultural centers or recommended local families. 4-5 hour experiences include market shopping and meal sharing. Look for classes including traditional coffee ceremony.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Khartoum International Fair

Annual trade and cultural exhibition showcasing Sudanese crafts, agriculture, and regional products. Features traditional music performances, food stalls, and artisan demonstrations. Perfect introduction to Sudanese culture with comfortable November evening temperatures for outdoor exhibits.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long pants and long sleeves in cotton or linen - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable, plus coverage protects from UV index 8 sun exposure

High-factor sunscreen SPF 50+ - November sun intensity reaches dangerous levels between 10am-4pm at Khartoum's latitude

Dust mask or lightweight scarf - sandstorms reduce visibility to 100 m (328 ft) and fine dust penetrates everywhere during 3-4 monthly dust events

Insect repellent with DEET 25%+ - mosquito activity peaks 6-9pm in post-rainy season conditions with standing water present

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential for archaeological site visits and outdoor activities during 35°C (96°F) afternoon temperatures

Lightweight rain jacket - despite low monthly rainfall, November storms are intense and brief with limited shelter available

Comfortable closed-toe shoes - sandy conditions and uneven surfaces at historical sites require sturdy footwear with good ankle support

Electrolyte supplements - high temperatures and humidity cause rapid dehydration, especially during walking tours exceeding 2 hours

Power bank and universal adapter - electricity supply can be intermittent during peak afternoon demand in 35°C (96°F) heat

Cash in small denominations (SDG) - card acceptance remains limited, and exact change facilitates market transactions and tip payments

Insider Knowledge

Local families begin outdoor socializing in November after summer isolation - join evening tea gatherings in residential areas starting around 6pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels

November pre-winter shopping season offers best souq prices as merchants clear inventory - negotiate prices down 30-40% from initial offers, especially after 4pm

Traditional coffee ceremonies move outdoors in November - look for small groups with charcoal braziers in neighborhood courtyards between 3-6pm for authentic cultural immersion

River taxi services between Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri operate extended schedules in November due to comfortable weather - cost 200-500 SDG per crossing versus expensive road transport

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 11am-3pm when temperatures peak at 35°C (96°F) - even November requires careful timing with early morning or late afternoon plans

Bringing only summer clothing - November nights can drop to 22°C (71°F) requiring light layers, and cultural sites require conservative coverage regardless of temperature

Assuming November means no malaria risk - standing water from recent rains maintains mosquito breeding grounds, making prevention essential through December