Things to Do in Liberia in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Liberia

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Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Rainy season is ending - by late November expect 40% fewer rainy days compared to September-October, with most rain falling predictably in late afternoon (3-6pm), leaving mornings clear for activities
Lush green landscapes at peak beauty - waterfalls like Kpatawee Falls are at maximum flow (triple the dry season volume), and the countryside is brilliantly green after months of rain
Significantly lower accommodation costs - expect 25-35% discounts compared to December-February dry season rates, with excellent availability at guesthouses in Monrovia and beach lodges in Robertsport
Sea turtle nesting season continues - November is prime time to witness endangered leatherback turtles nesting on beaches between Robertsport and Buchanan, with peak activity in early morning hours (5-7am)

Considerations

Unpaved roads become extremely challenging - rural roads outside Monrovia can be muddy and sometimes impassable, particularly routes to Sapo National Park and interior Lofa County, adding 2-3 hours to journey times
High humidity makes physical activities exhausting - 85% humidity combined with 30°C (86°F) temperatures means even moderate hiking feels strenuous, and clothing rarely dries completely
Limited domestic tourism infrastructure - November sees minimal international visitors, so some beach lodges and tour operators reduce services or close midweek, requiring advance confirmation of availability

Best Activities in November

Robertsport Surfing Sessions

November brings consistent southwest swells to Robertsport's Fisherman's Point and Cotton Trees breaks, with wave heights reaching 1.2-2 m (4-6.5 ft). Water temperature stays warm at 26°C (79°F), and morning sessions (6-10am) happen before afternoon rains. The rainy season keeps crowds minimal - you'll often have waves to yourself. This is when experienced surfers find the best conditions before the dry season crowds arrive in December.

Booking Tip: Board rentals typically cost 150-250 Liberian dollars per day (roughly 15-25 USD equivalent). Book accommodations at beachfront lodges at least 2 weeks ahead as options are limited. Look for lodges that include surf guides familiar with tide schedules and reef breaks. Morning sessions are essential - afternoons bring wind and rain.

Monrovia Historical Walking Tours

November mornings (8-11am) offer the best window for exploring Monrovia's historical sites before afternoon rains. Visit Providence Island where freed American slaves first landed in 1822, the Centennial Pavilion, and Ducor Palace Hotel ruins with panoramic city views. The overcast skies actually make photography better by reducing harsh shadows. With minimal tourists, you'll have meaningful conversations with local guides who lived through Liberia's recent history.

Booking Tip: Walking tours typically range 500-800 Liberian dollars (approximately 50-80 USD equivalent) for 3-4 hours including transport between sites. Book through established cultural organizations or hotel concierges rather than street approaches. Start by 8am to complete tours before 1pm when rain probability increases. Bring cash in small denominations for guide tips.

Kpatawee Waterfalls Hiking

Located 130 km (81 miles) northeast of Monrovia in Bong County, Kpatawee Falls is spectacular in November when water volume peaks after the rainy season. The 30 m (98 ft) cascade is at its most powerful, and the surrounding forest is vibrant green. The 45-minute hike from the village requires sturdy waterproof boots as trails are muddy. Plan for early morning departures (6am from Monrovia) to arrive by 9am and complete the hike before afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost 2,000-3,500 Liberian dollars (approximately 200-350 USD equivalent) including 4WD transport, local guide, and village entry fees. Book through Monrovia-based tour operators at least 5-7 days ahead. Ensure your vehicle is a proper 4WD - sedans cannot handle November road conditions. Pack waterproof bags for electronics and bring water shoes for swimming at the base.

Sea Turtle Conservation Night Patrols

November is peak nesting season for critically endangered leatherback turtles along Liberia's coast, particularly beaches between Robertsport and Buchanan. Join conservation patrols between 10pm-3am to witness 180 kg (400 lb) females coming ashore to lay eggs. These patrols actively protect nests from poaching and collect vital research data. The experience is profound and directly supports conservation efforts. Rain rarely interferes with night patrols.

Booking Tip: Conservation patrol participation typically costs 300-600 Liberian dollars (approximately 30-60 USD equivalent) with proceeds supporting protection programs. Contact conservation organizations at least 10-14 days ahead as patrol schedules depend on tide cycles and moon phases. New moon periods (late November 2025) offer best visibility. Bring red-light flashlights only - white light disturbs turtles. Expect to walk 3-5 km (1.9-3.1 miles) on sand.

Monrovia Market and Street Food Exploration

November brings seasonal foods to Monrovia's markets - fresh cassava, palm butter ingredients, and abundant seafood. Waterside Market and Red Light Market are most active 7am-2pm before rains. Try cassava leaf stew, palm butter with rice, and fresh grilled barracuda. The humidity keeps food vendors operating under covered stalls, making rain less disruptive. This is when locals shop for ingredients, so you'll experience authentic market culture without tourist crowds.

Booking Tip: Food tours through markets typically cost 400-700 Liberian dollars (approximately 40-70 USD equivalent) for 3-4 hours including tastings. Morning tours (7-11am) are essential before afternoon heat and rain. Look for guides who are actual Monrovia residents with family market connections. Budget an additional 200-300 Liberian dollars for purchasing items. Bring small bills and waterproof bag for purchases.

Sapo National Park Wildlife Tracking

West Africa's largest intact rainforest is extraordinarily lush in November, though access requires serious commitment. The 1,804 sq km (697 sq mile) park protects pygmy hippos, forest elephants, and chimpanzees. November's wet conditions make wildlife tracking challenging but rewarding - animals congregate near water sources. This is for adventurous travelers only - expect muddy trails, basic camping, and 6-8 hour drives each way from Monrovia on difficult roads. Multi-day trips are essential.

Booking Tip: Multi-day Sapo expeditions typically cost 8,000-15,000 Liberian dollars (approximately 800-1,500 USD equivalent) for 3-4 days including 4WD transport, camping equipment, guides, and permits. Book at least 3-4 weeks ahead through specialized operators with park authority connections. November requires experienced guides with wet season knowledge. Bring waterproof camping gear, water purification, and antimalarial medication. Roads may be impassable after heavy rains - build flexibility into schedules.

November Events & Festivals

First Thursday of November (November 6, 2025)

National Thanksgiving Day

Celebrated the first Thursday of November, this uniquely Liberian holiday reflects the nation's historical ties to the United States. Churches hold special services, families gather for large meals featuring jollof rice and chicken, and communities organize football matches. In Monrovia, expect reduced business hours and public offices closed. This offers genuine cultural immersion - if you're invited to a family celebration, accept. It's one of Liberia's most important holidays.

Late November (weekends)

Independence Day Preparations

While Independence Day is July 26th, late November sees communities beginning preparations for the following year's celebrations - practicing traditional dances, repairing costumes, and rehearsing performances. In villages outside Monrovia, you might witness these rehearsals, particularly on weekend afternoons. It's an unexpected window into cultural traditions without the crowds of actual Independence Day.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants (not jeans) - cotton denim stays wet for days in 85% humidity, while synthetic fabrics dry in 2-3 hours even without direct sun

Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support - not sneakers or sandals. Muddy trails require traction and protection, especially for Kpatawee Falls and forest walks

Two lightweight rain jackets - one for wearing, one as backup. Afternoon storms last 45-90 minutes and jackets rarely dry overnight in November humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen in waterproof packaging - despite clouds, UV index reaches 7 and reflected light from wet surfaces increases exposure. Reapply every 90 minutes

Antimalarial medication started before arrival - November's standing water increases mosquito populations. Bring DEET 30%+ repellent and sleep under bed nets

Waterproof phone pouch and dry bags - protect electronics during boat trips, waterfall visits, and sudden downpours. Silica gel packets help absorb moisture

Merino wool or synthetic blend socks (pack 6-8 pairs) - your feet will be wet frequently. Wool prevents blisters better than cotton when damp

Headlamp with red light setting - essential for turtle patrols and rural areas with limited electricity. Bring extra batteries as humidity drains power faster

Cash in small US dollar bills (1s, 5s, 10s) - ATMs in Monrovia are unreliable, and rural areas operate cash-only. Keep bills in waterproof pouches

Oral rehydration salts and basic medications - combination of heat, humidity, and unfamiliar food can cause dehydration. Pharmacies outside Monrovia have limited stock

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations that confirm November availability in writing - many beach lodges and guesthouses list themselves as open year-round online but actually close weekdays during rainy season. Call or email directly 2-3 weeks before arrival to confirm someone will be there.

Plan activities for 7am-1pm window - this is when Liberians do outdoor work during rainy season. Afternoon rains arrive predictably between 3-6pm. Restaurants and shops often close 2-4pm. Adjust your schedule to local rhythms rather than fighting the weather.

Hire drivers who know November road conditions - not all 4WD vehicles are equal, and not all drivers have wet season experience. Ask specifically about recent trips on your intended routes. Roads to Robertsport and Buchanan are manageable; routes to Sapo or Lofa County require specialized knowledge and equipment.

Bring more cash than you think necessary - November sees fewer money transfer services operating, and ATMs in Monrovia frequently run empty. Budget 30% more than planned and keep emergency cash separate from daily money. US dollars are widely accepted alongside Liberian dollars.