Things to Do in Burkina Faso in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Burkina Faso

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Peak safari season - wildlife congregates around permanent water sources as temporary pools dry up, making game viewing exceptional at parks like Arly and W National Park
Harmattan winds begin bringing clear, dust-free skies perfect for photography and comfortable evenings that drop to 20°C (68°F) - ideal for outdoor dining and cultural events
Post-harvest festival season brings authentic celebrations like Fête des Masques in various villages, when communities celebrate successful harvests with traditional mask dances and ceremonies
Road conditions are at their annual best - all major routes are passable after rainy season maintenance, making it the optimal time for overland travel to remote areas like the Sahel region

Considerations

Daytime temperatures still reach 37°C (98°F) making midday activities uncomfortable - outdoor sightseeing is only pleasant before 10am and after 4pm
Tourist infrastructure pricing peaks as this is prime season - accommodation rates increase 40-60% compared to rainy season, and domestic flights become scarce
Dust levels begin increasing as Harmattan winds strengthen, which can trigger respiratory issues and reduce visibility for landscape photography by late November

Best Activities in November

Wildlife Viewing in National Parks

November marks peak safari conditions as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. Early morning game drives (6-10am) offer the best wildlife viewing before temperatures soar. Elephants, hippos, and various antelope species are easily spotted. The dry conditions mean excellent road access to remote areas of the parks.

Booking Tip: Book park accommodations 6-8 weeks ahead as capacity is limited and this is peak season. Entry fees range 5,000-8,000 CFA francs per day. Choose operators with 4WD vehicles and early morning departure times. See current safari options in the booking section below.

Traditional Festival Experiences

November brings post-harvest celebrations across rural communities. Villages host mask festivals and traditional ceremonies that aren't tourist performances but authentic cultural events. The comfortable evening temperatures make overnight village stays pleasant.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA francs per day including transport and local guide. Book through cultural associations or community-based tourism operators at least 2 weeks ahead to ensure village coordination. Reference booking widget for current cultural tour options.

Handicraft Market Tours and Artisan Workshops

November's lower humidity makes exploring covered markets comfortable, and artisans are active preparing items for holiday seasons. Bronze casting, pottery, and textile workshops are ideal during cooler morning hours. This is prime season for purchasing authentic crafts before international demand peaks.

Booking Tip: Half-day market tours range 8,000-12,000 CFA francs including transport and guide. Morning tours (8am-12pm) are most comfortable before midday heat. Look for guides with artisan connections who can arrange workshop visits. Check current tour options in the booking section.

Historical Site Exploration

Ancient sites like the ruins of Loropéni and traditional architecture tours are perfect in November's dry conditions. Clear skies provide excellent photography conditions, and the lack of rain means all archaeological sites are accessible via improved road conditions.

Booking Tip: Full-day historical tours typically cost 18,000-28,000 CFA francs including transport, entry fees, and guide. Early morning departures are essential to avoid midday heat. Choose operators with archaeological expertise and comfortable vehicles. See booking options below for current tours.

Rural Village Homestays

November offers ideal conditions for experiencing rural life - harvest season activities, comfortable sleeping temperatures, and minimal rain disruption. Participate in traditional farming practices, cooking, and evening storytelling sessions under clear skies.

Booking Tip: Village homestays range 10,000-20,000 CFA francs per person per night including meals and activities. Book through responsible tourism organizations at least 3 weeks ahead for proper community preparation. Bring mosquito nets and basic medical supplies.

Sahel Region Desert Expeditions

Northern Sahel regions become accessible in November with excellent road conditions and clear weather. Camel trekking, nomadic community visits, and desert camping are optimal before December's heavy dust storms. Nighttime temperatures are perfect for desert camping.

Booking Tip: Multi-day desert expeditions cost 35,000-55,000 CFA francs per person for 2-3 days including meals, camping equipment, and guides. Book with experienced operators who have emergency communication equipment. Tours require advance planning of 4-6 weeks. Check current expedition options in booking section.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Fête des Masques (Mask Festivals)

Various communities celebrate successful harvests with elaborate mask ceremonies featuring traditional dances, music, and spiritual rituals. Each village has its own unique masks and customs, making this authentic cultural immersion rather than tourist entertainment.

Mid November

National Culture Week

Annual celebration of Burkinabé arts, crafts, music, and literature typically held in Ouagadougou with exhibitions, performances, and artisan demonstrations. Features work from all ethnic groups and regions of the country.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts and pants in natural fibers - protect from intense UV (index 8) and provide comfort in 70% humidity without trapping heat

Wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses - essential for midday temperatures reaching 37°C (98°F) with minimal shade in rural areas

High-SPF sunscreen (50+) and after-sun lotion - UV intensity remains high throughout the day, even during cooler morning hours

Light sleeping bag or liner rated for 20°C (68°F) - nights can be surprisingly cool, especially in northern regions and desert areas

Dust masks or bandanas - Harmattan winds begin bringing Sahara dust, particularly affecting those with respiratory sensitivities

Quick-dry clothing for occasional light showers - 10 rainy days mean brief but regular precipitation, usually lasting 30-45 minutes

Comfortable closed-toe shoes for dusty conditions - sandals become impractical as dust levels increase throughout the month

Portable water bottles with purification tablets - staying hydrated is critical in high temperatures, and rural water sources may need treatment

Mosquito repellent and nets - despite dry conditions, mosquitoes remain active during evening hours when temperatures cool

Power bank and universal adapter - electricity can be unreliable in rural areas, and you'll need devices for navigation and communication

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (cars rapides) run most frequently 6-10am and 4-7pm to avoid midday heat - plan intercity travel during these windows for comfort and better availability

November mango season brings the sweetest varieties to local markets - try 'Amélie' and 'Kent' mangoes that peak this month and cost 100-200 CFA francs each

Village chiefs must be greeted before any photography or cultural activities - bring kola nuts (500-1,000 CFA francs) as traditional gifts to show respect

Mobile money (Orange Money/Moov Money) is widely accepted even in remote villages - load your account in cities as rural ATMs are unreliable during peak season