North Africa in November: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Mediterranean Coast (northern Morocco, northern Algeria, Tunisia, coastal Libya, northern Egypt)

November is often the wettest month on the western coast; Rabat, Casablanca and Algiers see regular rain and rougher seas, while Tunisia tends toward milder, sunnier intervals. Alexandria and northern Egypt remain largely dry but cool, with crisp mornings; terraces and outdoor cafés are quieter. Travellers should plan indoor alternatives for stormy days and be prepared for earlier sunsets and cooler evenings.

Atlas & Rif Highlands (Morocco, northern Algeria, Tunisia)

Clouds and early snowfalls arrive in December at elevation, with ski areas sometimes reopening after autumn closures; low foothills are cool and wet. Mountain roads in Algeria and Morocco can be affected by storm closures so plan padding in itineraries. This is a quiet, economical time to experience mountain towns if you have wet-weather gear and flexible plans.

Sahara Desert & Oases (Western Sahara, Mauritania, southern Morocco, southern Algeria, southern Libya, Egyptian Western Desert)

Late autumn in November produces crisp days and cool nights, excellent for photographing desert landscapes and exploring off-the-beaten-track oases; markets and local communities resume activity after summer’s quiet. Road conditions improve and tour operators fully resume regular services. Pack warm sleeping layers for nights in the dunes and a windproof jacket for early-morning sandstorms that can still occur.

Nile Valley & Delta (Egypt - Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan)

November cools noticeably - Cairo and Alexandria see mild days and crisp evenings, while Upper Egypt is pleasantly warm during daylight hours and cool at night. This is one of the best months for a Nile cruise and temple visits: fewer heat-related restrictions and excellent light for photography. Bring a jacket for evenings and early-morning balloon rides over the Valley of the Kings.

Red Sea Coast & Eastern Desert (Egypt’s Red Sea resorts, eastern Libya/Cyrenaica coast)

November returns to mild, warm days and clear water that accommodates year-round diving in many spots; temperatures drop only slightly from their October peaks and nights are pleasantly cool. This is a top month for diving and sailing charters because the sea state is reliably calm and skies are clear. Bring a light fleece for evenings and enjoy the quieter marina atmospheres.