Algeria - Things to Do in Algeria in November

Algeria in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Algeria

25°C (77°F) High Temp
20°C (68°F) Low Temp
51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

  • Perfect shoulder season temperatures - daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) are ideal for exploring without summer's brutal heat of 35°C+ (95°F+)
  • Ramadan typically falls outside November, meaning restaurants operate normal hours and cultural sites have standard schedules
  • Minimal rainfall with only 51mm (2.0 inches) across 10 days - brief afternoon showers that rarely disrupt full-day activities
  • Sahara Desert conditions are optimal - cool enough for comfortable camel trekking and overnight camping without freezing nighttime temperatures

Considerations

  • Variable weather patterns mean you'll experience both warm humid days and surprisingly cool evenings requiring layered clothing
  • Tourist shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 20-30% more than summer months but still below December-February peak rates
  • Mediterranean coastal areas can be unpredictable with sudden weather changes affecting ferry schedules to offshore destinations

Best Activities in November

Sahara Desert Overnight Expeditions

November offers the sweet spot for desert exploration - daytime temperatures of 25°C (77°F) make camel trekking comfortable while nighttime lows of 12°C (54°F) are perfect for campfire gatherings without the bone-chilling cold of winter months. Sand dune climbing is manageable without summer's scorching heat.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead through licensed desert guides. Expect to pay 8,000-12,000 DZD for 2-day/1-night trips including transport from major cities. Look for operators providing proper camping equipment and experienced Tuareg guides. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Kasbah and Roman Ruins Exploration

Moderate temperatures make November ideal for extensive archaeological site visits. You can spend 4-6 hours exploring Timgad or Djémila without heat exhaustion. Early morning visits (8-11am) offer the best lighting for photography before afternoon humidity peaks at 70%.

Booking Tip: Independent exploration is possible, but guided tours (3,000-5,000 DZD per day) provide crucial historical context. Book cultural tours 7-10 days ahead. Many sites have limited shade, so plan for morning starts. Current guided tour options available in booking section below.

Mediterranean Coastal Hiking

Algiers to Tipaza coastal trails are perfect in November's moderate climate. The 15km (9.3 mile) coastal path takes 4-5 hours with comfortable temperatures and minimal risk of heat stroke. Sea breezes help with humidity management.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking is common, but organized coastal tours (2,500-4,000 DZD) include transportation and local insights. Book accommodation in coastal towns 10-14 days ahead as November is popular for hiking groups. Check current coastal tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Hammam and Thermal Springs

November's variable temperatures make thermal experiences particularly appealing. After cool mornings exploring cities, afternoon hammam sessions provide perfect warmth. Hammam Melouane and other traditional baths see fewer crowds than peak season.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammams cost 500-1,500 DZD for full treatments. No advance booking needed for public baths, but private sessions should be arranged Easttimor-day. Thermal spring resorts near Biskra offer overnight packages (8,000-15,000 DZD). See wellness tour options in booking section below.

Atlas Mountains Day Treks

November temperatures make Aurès Mountains accessible for day hikes without winter snow or summer heat. Trails around Chelia peak offer impressive views with comfortable hiking conditions. Altitude gains of 800m (2,625 ft) are manageable in moderate temperatures.

Booking Tip: Mountain guides cost 4,000-6,000 DZD per day for groups up to 6 people. Book 5-7 days ahead through mountain associations in Batna or Arris. Equipment rental available locally. Current mountain tour options in booking section below.

Oran and Western Coast Cultural Tours

November's pleasant weather makes Oran's walking tours comfortable. The city's French colonial architecture and busy music scene are best experienced on foot. Afternoon temperatures rarely exceed 26°C (79°F), perfect for exploring the Medina and modern districts.

Booking Tip: Cultural walking tours range 2,000-4,000 DZD for half-day experiences. Music venue tours (including raï heritage sites) cost 3,000-5,000 DZD. Book 5-10 days ahead, especially for specialized music tours. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Timgad International Festival of Theatre

Annual theatrical celebration held in the Roman amphitheater ruins. International and Algerian productions perform against ancient stone backdrops. Comfortable November evenings make outdoor performances particularly magical.

Late November

Date Harvest Festival in Biskra

Celebration of the date palm harvest with traditional music, dance, and date variety tastings. Local families open their oasis gardens to visitors for authentic cultural exchanges.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long pants and long sleeves - 70% humidity makes cotton and linen essential, avoid polyester which traps moisture
Light jacket or fleece - evening temperatures can drop 8-10°C (14-18°F) from daytime highs, especially in desert areas
SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even with November's moderate temperatures
Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - uneven ancient ruins and cobblestone medinas require sturdy footwear
Light rain jacket - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be sudden, waterproof rather than water-resistant
Moisture-wicking socks - humidity combined with extensive walking can cause blisters in cotton socks
Wide-brimmed hat - essential for desert excursions and archaeological site visits with limited shade
Layers for desert trips - temperature swings of 15°C (27°F) between day and night require versatile clothing options
Modest clothing for religious sites - lightweight pants and shirts that cover shoulders, culturally appropriate and comfortable
Portable water bottle with purification tablets - staying hydrated is crucial even in moderate temperatures

Insider Knowledge

November coincides with olive harvest season - local families often invite visitors to participate in traditional olive picking, providing authentic cultural experiences not found in guidebooks
Book desert tours departing Wednesday-Thursday for better prices - weekend departures cost 20-30% more as Algerian families take short breaks
Afternoon prayers (Asr) around 3:30pm cause 30-minute closures at major mosques and some museums - plan site visits accordingly
Local buses to archaeological sites run most frequently 8am-2pm - afternoon services are limited and can leave you stranded until evening

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only summer clothes - November evenings, especially in mountainous areas, require warm layers as temperatures can drop to 12°C (54°F)
Assuming all restaurants serve alcohol - many establishments don't serve alcohol regardless of tourist areas, research beforehand or ask discretely
Booking desert tours without checking group composition - mixed international groups often have better English-speaking guides than local family groups

Activities in Algeria