Tripoli in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Tripoli

28°C (82°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

45mm (1.8 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Ideal temperature range 18-28°C (64-82°F) - warm enough for outdoor exploration without summer's scorching heat above 35°C (95°F)
Minimal rainfall at 45mm (1.8 inches) means only 3 rainy days versus December's 12+ rainy days - perfect for walking the Medina
Post-harvest season brings fresh olive oil, dates, and citrus fruits to local markets at peak quality and lowest prices
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than peak winter months while weather remains excellent

Considerations

Occasional desert winds (Ghibli) can bring dust storms lasting 1-2 days, reducing visibility and coating everything in fine sand
Evenings cool quickly after sunset - temperature drops 8-10°C (14-18°F) within two hours, catching many visitors unprepared
Some coastal boat operators reduce schedules as tourist season winds down, limiting options for island excursions

Best Activities in November

Old Medina Walking Tours

November's 25°C (77°F) average daytime temperature is perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Medina's narrow alleyways. Unlike summer when afternoon heat makes walking unbearable, or winter when rain disrupts outdoor plans, November offers ideal conditions. The souks are less crowded as peak tourist season hasn't begun, allowing genuine interactions with local artisans.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours (8am-11am) through certified guides - typically 80-120 LYD per person for 3-hour experiences. Afternoon tours work well too since temperatures rarely exceed 28°C (82°F). See current tour options in the booking section below.

Archaeological Site Excursions

Leptis Magna and Sabratha are spectacular in November's mild weather. Summer heat makes exploring these exposed sites dangerous (temperatures exceed 40°C/104°F), while November allows comfortable full-day exploration. The golden hour light at 5pm creates perfect photography conditions for the Roman ruins.

Booking Tip: Full-day archaeological tours typically cost 200-300 LYD including transport and guide. Book 7-10 days ahead as local operators have reduced schedules. Pack water and snacks as site facilities are limited.

Traditional Hammam Experiences

November's moderate temperatures make hammam visits more comfortable than summer's sweltering heat. Local hammams are less crowded as Ramadan preparations haven't begun, and you'll experience authentic rituals alongside locals rather than tourist groups.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammams charge 30-60 LYD for full treatments. Visit Thursday or Friday afternoons when locals frequent them most. No advance booking needed for public hammams, but private sessions require 24-hour notice.

Coastal Fishing Village Tours

November marks the end of fishing season, meaning villages like Tajura showcase traditional boat-building and net-mending activities. Waters are still warm enough at 22°C (72°F) for brief swimming, but crowds have disappeared. Local restaurants serve fresh catch at significantly lower prices than summer months.

Booking Tip: Half-day coastal tours typically range 100-180 LYD per person including lunch. Some operators reduce schedules after mid-November, so book within first two weeks. Local minibus transport costs 15-25 LYD if traveling independently.

Desert Edge Camping

November offers perfect desert camping weather - warm 25°C (77°F) days and cool 15°C (59°F) nights without winter's harsh winds or summer's dangerous heat. Clear skies provide exceptional stargazing, and Berber guides are more available as tourist season transitions.

Booking Tip: Two-day desert camping experiences cost 300-500 LYD including meals, transport, and equipment. Book minimum 14 days ahead as good guides fill up quickly. Verify operator includes proper cold-weather sleeping gear for nighttime temperatures.

Spice Market Food Tours

November brings harvest season's best produce to Tripoli's markets. New olive oil, fresh dates, and preserved lemons are at peak quality. Cooler morning temperatures make market walking comfortable, and vendors have time for conversations as tourist rushes haven't begun.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours typically cost 60-100 LYD for 3-hour experiences including tastings. Independent exploration works well too - arrive by 8am for best selection and cooler temperatures. See current food tour options in the booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Olive Harvest Festival

Local communities celebrate the olive harvest with traditional music, dancing, and fresh oil tastings. Family-run farms outside Tripoli open to visitors, offering hands-on harvesting experiences and traditional meals featuring new oil.

Mid November

Date Palm Harvest Celebrations

Oasis communities host small festivals celebrating date harvests. Visitors can participate in traditional date processing, taste varieties unavailable in markets, and experience authentic Berber hospitality.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering clothing essential - temperature swings 10°C (18°F) between day/night require t-shirts AND warm sweater

Lightweight scarf or wrap for evening temperature drops and entering religious sites

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support for uneven Medina cobblestones and archaeological sites

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 6 even in mild November weather, especially near coastal areas

Light rain jacket for the 3 expected rainy days - showers are brief but can be heavy

Dust mask or bandana for occasional Ghibli wind events that bring desert sand

Power bank - electricity can be intermittent, especially during windy weather

Cash in small denominations - many local vendors don't accept cards or large bills

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for mosque visits and conservative areas

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated important even in moderate temperatures

Insider Knowledge

November mornings (7am-10am) offer the best light and temperatures for photography, plus markets have full selection before daily sellouts

Local families begin wedding season preparations in November - you might witness traditional henna ceremonies in residential Medina areas

Thursday afternoons feature weekly livestock markets in surrounding villages - authentic cultural experience rarely mentioned in guides

November's clear skies make rooftop terraces perfect for sunset viewing - many riads offer rooftop access for small tips even if you're not staying there

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating evening temperature drops - visitors regularly get cold after sunset when temperature falls 8-10°C (14-18°F) within two hours

Scheduling outdoor activities for late afternoon without checking for Ghibli winds - desert dust storms can appear suddenly and last 1-2 days

Assuming summer operating hours continue - many tourist services reduce schedules after October, so confirm hours before traveling to sites