Basseterre in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Basseterre

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

140 mm (5.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Post-hurricane season calm with settled trade winds averaging 15-20 kph (9-12 mph), perfect for snorkeling and sailing excursions around the island
Tourism shoulder season means 30-40% lower accommodation rates and significantly fewer cruise ship crowds at popular sites like Brimstone Hill Fortress
Prime turtle watching season at Sandy Bank Bay - hawksbill and green turtles are most active during November's cooler evening temperatures
Sugar harvest festival season brings authentic local celebrations and fresh cane juice at roadside stands throughout the island

Considerations

Occasional tropical showers averaging 20-30 minutes can interrupt outdoor activities, typically occurring between 2-5pm
Higher humidity levels at 70% make midday activities feel more strenuous than morning or evening excursions
Some beachside restaurants reduce operating hours during shoulder season, with several closing on Mondays and Tuesdays

Best Activities in November

Brimstone Hill Fortress Cultural Tours

November's lower humidity and gentle trade winds make exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site ideal. Morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) are perfect for the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) walking tour. Fewer cruise ship crowds mean better photo opportunities and more personal interaction with local guides.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours (8:30-10:30am) to avoid afternoon showers and heat. Entry costs EC$15 (US$6) for adults. Guided tours typically cost EC$40-60 (US$15-22) and should be booked 2-3 days ahead through certified heritage guides.

Catamaran Sailing and Snorkeling

November's stable weather patterns and 24-26°C (75-79°F) water temperatures create perfect conditions for sailing. Post-hurricane season brings clearest water visibility of the year, often exceeding 30m (98 feet) at popular snorkel spots around Nevis.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost EC$200-300 (US$75-110) and should be booked 5-7 days ahead during shoulder season. Morning departures (9am) offer calmer seas before afternoon breezes pick up around 2pm.

Scenic Railway Heritage Train

The 30 km (18.6 mile) narrow-gauge railway journey is most comfortable in November's moderate temperatures. Clear skies provide unobstructed views of neighboring islands, and the 3-hour journey includes plantation ruins tours that are pleasant in 70% humidity rather than peak season's 85%+.

Booking Tip: Tours run Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday only during November. Tickets cost EC$230 (US$85) for adults and frequently sell out 10-14 days ahead. Book morning departures to avoid potential afternoon showers.

Turtle Watching at Sandy Bank Bay

November marks peak hawksbill and green turtle activity as they prefer the slightly cooler evening water temperatures. Best viewing occurs during evening high tides when turtles come closer to shore to feed on sea grass beds.

Booking Tip: Evening tours (6:30-8:30pm) cost EC$80-120 (US$30-45) per person. Book with marine conservation groups for educational experiences. Success rates are highest on calm evenings - check weather 24 hours ahead.

Mount Liamuiga Volcano Hiking

Cooler November temperatures make the challenging 5 km (3.1 mile) round-trip hike more manageable. Early morning starts at 6am take advantage of 22-24°C (72-75°F) temperatures before the 30°C (86°F) midday heat. Clearer post-hurricane season skies offer better crater rim views.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost EC$150-200 (US$55-75) and require advance booking with certified eco-tour operators. Bring 3+ liters of water and start before 7am. Tours often cancel during afternoon rain, so morning bookings are essential.

Local Food Market Tours

November's sugar harvest brings fresh cane juice, seasonal root vegetables, and traditional preserves to local markets. Saturday morning Basseterre Market is most active from 6-10am when temperatures are coolest and selection is best.

Booking Tip: Self-guided market visits are free, but guided food tours cost EC$100-150 (US$40-55) and include tastings at 5-6 vendors. Book Friday evening for Saturday tours, as popular guides fill up quickly during harvest season.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November weekends

Sugar Harvest Festival

Local communities celebrate the traditional sugar cane harvest with weekend festivals featuring fresh cane juice, traditional music, and cultural demonstrations. Not a formal tourist event, but authentic cultural experience at various villages.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers average 20-30 minutes and occur on 10 days during November

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even during shoulder season, and reflection off water intensifies exposure

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity

Comfortable hiking boots for volcano and fortress tours - trails can be muddy after rain showers

Quick-dry swimwear - allows for spontaneous snorkeling opportunities when weather clears

Insulated water bottle holding at least 1 liter (34 oz) - staying hydrated is crucial for outdoor activities

Light long-sleeve shirt for evening turtle watching - provides sun protection and mosquito barrier

Waterproof phone case for boat trips and water activities

Small daypack that can fit under catamaran seating - typically 20-25 liters (1,200-1,500 cubic inches)

Cash in Eastern Caribbean dollars - many local vendors and small tour operators don't accept cards

Insider Knowledge

Local buses run on 'island time' but are reliable - the main route costs EC$2.50 and connects all major attractions, running every 30 minutes from 6am-8pm

Cruise ship schedules drastically affect crowds - check the port authority website before booking major attractions, as Wednesday and Thursday typically see 2-3 ships simultaneously

Many locals take vacation during the first two weeks of November after hurricane season ends, so some family-run restaurants and small shops may have irregular hours

The strongest WiFi on the island is at Timothy Beach Resort's restaurant - order a drink and use their connection for booking activities or checking weather updates

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking outdoor activities for 2-5pm when afternoon showers are most likely - morning and evening excursions have much higher success rates

Underestimating hiking difficulty in tropical humidity - even moderate trails require twice the water you'd normally carry

Expecting all restaurants to be open during shoulder season - call ahead or have backup dinner plans, especially for Sunday and Monday evenings