Saotome in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Saotome
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect diving and snorkeling conditions - November marks the beginning of dry season with 25m+ (82ft) underwater visibility at the Ilhas das Rolas and visibility peaks that last through April
- Optimal hiking weather with morning temperatures at 24°C (75°F) and humidity dropping to 65% before 9am, making the 8km (5 mile) Pico de São Tomé trek comfortable before afternoon heat
- Peak cocoa harvest season means chocolate plantation tours include fresh pod tastings and witnessing traditional fermentation processes that only happen October through December
- Sea turtle nesting season continues through November at Saotomeandprincipe - witnessing olive ridley and leatherback nesting occurs 4-5 nights per week with guided conservation tours
Considerations
- Accommodation prices increase 40-60% from October rates as dry season begins - book 6-8 weeks ahead to secure better rates before European winter escape bookings surge
- Afternoon rain showers still occur 10 days of the month, typically 2-4pm, lasting 45-90 minutes and can cancel boat transfers to Principe Island with 24-48 hour delays
- Limited flight availability with TAP Air Portugal reducing November frequencies - only 3 weekly flights from Lisbon compared to 5 in peak months, making last-minute bookings difficult
Best Activities in November
São Tomé Island Diving Expeditions
November offers the year's best underwater conditions with 25-30m (82-98ft) visibility and calm seas. Water temperature reaches 27°C (81°F) with minimal current. The transitional month brings both resident reef species and migrating pelagics. Morning dives (7am-12pm) avoid afternoon weather windows.
Cocoa Plantation Cultural Tours
November coincides with peak harvest and fermentation season. Experience pod opening, bean fermentation processes, and traditional drying methods only visible during harvest months. Roça São João and Roça Água Izé offer authentic working plantation experiences with fresh chocolate tastings.
Pico de São Tomé Hiking Adventures
November's lower humidity and cooler mornings make the 8km (5 mile) summit trek ideal. Start at 5am to reach the 2,024m (6,640ft) summit by 10am before cloud cover. Crystal-clear views of both islands and the Gulf of Guinea. Requires good fitness and proper gear.
Príncipe Island Nature Expeditions
November weather windows allow reliable boat transfers to UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Príncipe. Endemic bird watching peaks as migratory species overlap with residents. The 3-day minimum stay maximizes chances despite occasional transfer delays from afternoon weather.
Sea Turtle Conservation Tours
November continues peak nesting season for olive ridley and leatherback turtles at Saotomeandprincipe. Night tours (8pm-2am) offer 70-80% nesting encounter success rates. Participate in conservation monitoring and protection programs with local communities.
Traditional Fishing Village Experiences
November's calmer morning seas allow participation in traditional fishing methods with local communities. Learn net fishing, fish processing, and enjoy beach-to-table meals. Cultural exchange programs support village development while providing real feels.
November Events & Festivals
Festival Nacional de Chocolate
Annual celebration of São Tomé's cocoa heritage coinciding with harvest season. Features chocolate competitions, traditional music, cultural performances, and plantation tours. Local artisans demonstrate bean-to-bar processes and offer tastings of rare Nacional cacao varieties.
Dia da Independência Cultural Events
Independence Day celebrations on November 12th include traditional dance performances, local food festivals, and cultural exhibitions in São Tomé city. Street festivals showcase Santomean music, art, and cuisine with community participation.