Things to Do in Lilongwe in November

November Weather in Lilongwe

29°C (84°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

64 mm (2.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - only 10 rainy days and 64mm (2.5 inches) total, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring on foot
Jacaranda trees bloom throughout the city creating stunning purple canopies along major roads like Presidential Way and Kamuzu Procession Road
Low tourist season means better accommodation rates (typically 30-40% lower than July peak season) and authentic local experiences without crowds
Comfortable temperatures of 18-29°C (64-84°F) perfect for walking between City Centre attractions and outdoor markets without the October heat

Considerations

Occasional afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor plans for 1-2 hours, though they're brief and cooling
Some rural roads to tobacco estates become dusty as farmers prepare for planting season, affecting day trips outside the city
Limited international flight options compared to peak season, with fewer direct connections and higher airfares from major hubs

Best Activities in November

Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and Nature Sanctuary Visits

November's dry weather and mild temperatures make this perfect for exploring the 180-hectare wildlife centre. Animals are more active in the cooler morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F), and the clear visibility means excellent wildlife photography. The sanctuary's walking trails are in perfect condition without mud from heavy rains.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically MK 3,000-5,000 for international visitors. Visit early morning (7-9am) for best wildlife viewing. No advance booking needed for individual visits, but group tours require 2-3 days notice. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Old Town Cultural Walking Tours

November's comfortable temperatures and low humidity make walking through Old Town's markets and craft centers enjoyable throughout the day. The traditional architecture photography is enhanced by dramatic afternoon light, and local artisans are active preparing crafts for the December holiday season.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, guided cultural tours typically cost MK 15,000-25,000 for half-day experiences. Book through licensed cultural guides 3-5 days ahead. Local craft purchases support community projects directly.

Lake Malawi Day Trips from Lilongwe

November offers perfect lake conditions with calm waters and excellent visibility for swimming and snorkeling. The 120 km (75 mile) drive to Salima takes 2 hours on good dry-season roads, and lake temperatures are ideal at 24°C (75°F). Fish populations are active before the rainy season spawning period.

Booking Tip: Full-day lake trips typically cost MK 35,000-50,000 including transport and lunch. Book 5-7 days ahead during November as it's popular with locals. Operators provide snorkeling gear, but bring your own towel and sunscreen SPF 50+.

Tobacco Farm and Agricultural Tours

November is post-harvest season, perfect for learning about Malawi's tobacco industry without the intense activity of harvest time. Farmers are available for educational tours, and the cured tobacco barns showcase the complete process. Roads to estates are accessible and dust-free after October rains.

Booking Tip: Agricultural tours cost MK 20,000-30,000 per person through organized operators. Require 1 week advance booking as farms coordinate schedules. Tours include traditional lunch and local transport. Best experienced Tuesday-Thursday when processing is active.

Dzalanyama Forest Reserve Hiking

November provides ideal hiking conditions with comfortable temperatures and clear forest paths. Located 45 km (28 miles) southwest of Lilongwe, the reserve offers excellent birdwatching as migratory species arrive for the wet season. Streams are low and easily crossed, making remote trails accessible.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are MK 2,000 per person, guided hikes cost MK 12,000-18,000 for full-day experiences. Book guides through the reserve office 2-3 days ahead. Bring sturdy hiking boots for rocky terrain and water purification tablets for stream water.

Local Market and Food Experience Tours

November showcases the best of Malawi's dry season produce before new crops arrive. Lilongwe Central Market offers peak variety of groundnuts, maize, and dried fish. Cooking classes feature traditional nsima preparation and seasonal vegetable dishes, enhanced by comfortable kitchen temperatures.

Booking Tip: Market tours with cooking experiences typically cost MK 18,000-28,000 per person for 4-hour programs. Book 3-4 days ahead with certified food guides. Tours include market shopping, cooking instruction, and full meal. Vegetarian options always available.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Jacaranda Blooming Season

Lilongwe's iconic jacaranda trees reach peak bloom in November, creating spectacular purple canopies throughout the city. Presidential Way and Kamuzu Procession Road offer the most dramatic displays. Local photographers gather at dawn and sunset for optimal lighting.

Mid to Late November

Traditional Harvest Thanksgiving Ceremonies

Rural communities near Lilongwe hold traditional ceremonies thanking ancestors for successful tobacco and maize harvests. Visitors can observe authentic Chewa cultural practices including traditional drumming, dancing, and communal feasting.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts - protect against UV index of 8 while staying cool in 29°C (84°F) afternoon heat

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon thunderstorms last 1-2 hours but can be intense

Sturdy walking sandals with good grip - for navigating Old Town's uneven stone paths and market areas

High SPF sunscreen (50+) - November sun is intense with limited cloud cover during dry season

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes are active in early evenings around 18°C (64°F) temperatures

Light sweater or fleece - morning temperatures drop to 18°C (64°F) and buildings aren't heated

Breathable hiking boots - essential for forest reserve trails and rocky terrain outside the city

Quick-dry clothing - humidity at 70% means clothes dry slowly in accommodation

Portable water purification tablets - for rural excursions where bottled water isn't available

Dust mask or bandana - roads outside Lilongwe can be dusty during dry season agricultural activities

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations before October 15th for November visits - conference season creates unexpected demand and prices can jump 40% after mid-October

Exchange money at forex bureaus in City Centre rather than banks - rates are typically 5-8% better and no queuing, but only accept crisp US dollar bills printed after 2013

Visit wildlife sanctuaries between 7-9am when animals are most active - afternoon heat makes them retreat to shade, and entry fees are the same regardless of timing

Negotiate taxi fares before getting in - standard rate from airport to City Centre is MK 8,000-10,000, but drivers often quote MK 15,000+ to international visitors

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating afternoon sun intensity - many tourists get severe sunburn thinking November is 'mild' but UV index reaches 8 with minimal cloud cover

Not bringing cash - most local businesses, markets, and small tour operators only accept Malawi Kwacha, and ATMs frequently run out of money on weekends

Planning outdoor activities during 1-3pm peak heat - even at comfortable 29°C (84°F), direct sun and 70% humidity make midday activities exhausting