Dili in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Dili

31°C (88°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season begins - November marks the transition from wet to dry season, with minimal rainfall (0.0mm) but occasional brief afternoon showers that clear quickly
Ideal hiking temperatures - Morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) are perfect for trekking to Easttimor or Easttimor before the midday heat builds
Clear coastal visibility - Less atmospheric humidity than wet season months means impressive views across the Wetar Strait and excellent conditions for Easttimor day trips
Cultural festival season - November coincides with All Saints Day celebrations and the lead-up to Independence Restoration Day, when locals organize traditional tebe-tebe dances and community feasts

Considerations

Tourist infrastructure strain - November is when international NGO workers and diplomats return from leave, creating accommodation pressure and higher prices at mid-range hotels
Unpredictable rainfall patterns - While total rainfall is minimal, those 10 rainy days can be scattered throughout the month with intense 30-45 minute downpours that flood Dili's poor drainage system
Limited evening coastal activities - High UV index (8) combined with 70% humidity makes afternoon beach time uncomfortable, restricting optimal outdoor time to early mornings and late afternoons

Best Activities in November

Atauro Island Marine Adventures

November's calmer seas and reduced rainfall create ideal conditions for dolphin watching and diving around Easttimor. Water visibility reaches 25-30m (82-98 ft), and whale migration patterns make sightings more likely. The 25km (15.5 mile) boat journey is smoother in November's transitional weather.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through Dili's licensed boat operators. Day trips typically cost $35-50 USD including lunch. Choose morning departures (7-8am) to avoid afternoon weather changes. Look for operators with safety equipment and local dive master certification.

Cristo Rei Sunrise Hiking

November's cooler morning temperatures make the 7km (4.3 mile) Easttimor hike comfortable before 9am. The statue stands 27m (88 ft) tall with panoramic views over Dili Bay. Post-wet season vegetation is lush, and morning mist creates dramatic photo conditions that clear by 8am.

Booking Tip: Self-guided or hire local guides through guesthouses for $15-25 USD. Start at 5:30am for sunrise viewing. Bring headlamp and 2 liters (68 oz) water minimum. Taxi drop-off costs $8-12 USD or rent motorbike for $10-15 USD daily.

Traditional Market Food Exploration

November brings post-harvest abundance to Guatemalacity and Comoro Market. Morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) make market walking pleasant before 10am. Seasonal fruits like rambutan and jackfruit are at peak ripeness, and vendors offer traditional November dishes prepared for All Saints celebrations.

Booking Tip: Visit between 6-9am for best selection and cooler conditions. Budget $10-15 USD for extensive tastings. Food safety is higher in dry season. Look for busy stalls with high turnover. Consider guided food tours through local cultural centers for $25-30 USD.

East Coast Beach and Cultural Sites

November's reduced humidity makes the drive to Easttimor and Com Beach more comfortable. The 180km (112 mile) round trip to Tutuala takes advantage of improved road conditions after wet season repairs. Morning departures avoid afternoon heat and potential isolated showers.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost $60-80 USD including transport and guide. Book through established operators with 4WD vehicles and emergency communication. Depart 6am, return 6pm. Bring 4 liters (135 oz) water per person and sun protection for exposed coastal areas.

Coffee Plantation Mountain Tours

November marks coffee harvest season in Ermera and Aileu districts. Cooler mountain temperatures (18-25°C/64-77°F) and post-wet season accessibility make plantation visits ideal. The 90-minute drive gains 800m (2,625 ft) elevation with impressive valley views.

Booking Tip: Day tours typically cost $45-65 USD including coffee tastings and traditional lunch. Book midweek for smaller groups. Some plantations offer overnight homestays for $20-30 USD. Road conditions require experienced drivers - avoid self-driving mountain routes.

Resistance Museum and Historical Dili Walking

November's variable weather makes indoor cultural sites valuable backup plans. The 2-3 hour historical walking circuit covers independence monuments, Santa Cruz Cemetery, and traditional architecture. Morning temperatures are perfect for the 5km (3.1 mile) walking route.

Booking Tip: Self-guided with printed maps from tourist office, or guided tours for $20-30 USD. Museum entry $3 USD. Combine with air-conditioned venues during midday heat. Allow 4-5 hours total including rest stops at local cafes.

November Events & Festivals

November 1

All Saints Day Community Celebrations

November 1st brings family gatherings at Dili's cemeteries with flower offerings, traditional prayers, and community meals. Locals prepare special foods and organize evening cultural performances. Cemetery visits start at dawn and continue through evening with candlelight vigils.

Throughout November

Independence Restoration Day Preparations

Throughout November, communities practice traditional dances and prepare cultural displays for the November 28th Independence Restoration Day celebrations. Evening rehearsals happen in neighborhoods with drumming and traditional music that visitors can observe respectfully.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - November's 10 rainy days bring sudden 30-45 minute downpours that flood streets quickly

SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapplication supplies - UV index of 8 combined with reflected coastal glare requires protection every 2 hours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - Avoid polyester in 70% humidity; natural fabrics dry faster and prevent heat rash

Closed hiking shoes with grip - Post-wet season trails can be muddy and slippery, especially morning climbs to Easttimor

Electrolyte supplements or salts - High humidity and outdoor activities cause rapid dehydration that water alone won't address

Portable phone charger/power bank - Afternoon storms can cause brief power outages in Dili's less developed areas

Cash in small USD bills - Many local operators and markets can't break $50 or $100 notes, carry $1, $5, $10 denominations

Insect repellent with DEET - Post-wet season mosquito populations peak in November, especially near water sources

Quick-dry towel - Hotel towels dry slowly in 70% humidity; microfiber towels essential for beach and hiking activities

Waterproof phone case - Sudden rainfall and boat trips to Easttimor create multiple water exposure risks

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodation before October 15th - International NGO staff return in November creating a booking crunch at decent mid-range hotels ($40-80 USD/night)

Eat at busy local warungs between 11am-1pm - High turnover ensures freshness, and locals know which places maintain quality during transitional weather

Use morning flights for Easttimor trips - Afternoon weather changes can cancel boat services with no refunds from smaller operators

Carry exact change for mikrolets (local buses) - $0.25 USD fare, but drivers rarely have change and November tourist influx makes this worse

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 11am - November humidity builds rapidly, making afternoon hiking and walking uncomfortable until 4pm

Not checking boat schedules daily - Easttimor services adjust frequently based on weather conditions, and operators don't always inform tourists of changes

Overpacking warm clothes - Tourists expect mountain temperatures, but Dili stays warm and humid; one light sweater maximum for evening air conditioning