Algiers in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Algiers

21°C (70°F) High Temp

10°C (50°F) Low Temp

101.6 mm (4.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect Mediterranean climate - daily highs of 21°C (70°F) make walking the Casbah comfortable without summer's exhausting 35°C+ (95°F+) heat that forces midday breaks
Ramadan crowds have dispersed and summer European tourists are gone - major sites like Martyrs' Memorial and this destination see 40% fewer visitors than peak months
Local cultural season peaks - November marks wedding season and harvest festivals in surrounding Mitidja Plain, offering real feels unavailable other months
Ideal hiking weather for Chrea National Park - crisp mornings at 10°C (50°F) warm to perfect 18°C (64°F) by afternoon, with clear Atlas Mountain views before winter fog arrives

Considerations

Unpredictable rain patterns - November averages 10 rainy days with sudden afternoon downpours lasting 45-90 minutes that can disrupt outdoor mosque visits and market browsing
Sea temperature drops to 18°C (64°F) making Mediterranean beaches uncomfortable for swimming - coastal restaurants start closing terraces by 6 PM
Daylight shrinks rapidly - sunset moves from 5:45 PM early November to 5:15 PM late November, limiting afternoon exploration time in Casbah's narrow alleys

Best Activities in November

Casbah Walking Tours and Historical Exploration

November's mild temperatures make navigating the UNESCO World Heritage Casbah's steep stone staircases and narrow passages comfortable all day. Morning temperatures of 15°C (59°F) are perfect for the 2-3 hour climbs between upper and lower Casbah levels. Reduced tourist numbers mean better access to Ketchaoua Mosque and Dar Hassan Pacha palace courtyards. Local guides are more available and relaxed without summer rush.

Booking Tip: Book certified guides through ONAT (National Tourism Office) 5-7 days ahead. Tours typically cost 3,000-5,000 DZD and include mosque entry permits. Avoid unmarked guides - legitimate operators carry official badges and insurance. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Atlas Mountains Day Trips and Hiking

November offers ideal conditions for Chrea National Park and Blida region exploration. Morning temperatures of 8-12°C (46-54°F) at altitude are perfect for hiking without summer's dangerous heat. Clear autumn air provides spectacular views toward Mediterranean coast 50 km (31 miles) away. Cedar forests show autumn colors unique to this season. Snow hasn't arrived yet but will by December.

Booking Tip: Book mountain excursions 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators with 4WD vehicles. Day trips typically cost 4,500-7,000 DZD including transport and guide. Ensure operators provide warm weather gear for altitude changes. Current mountain tour options available in booking section below.

Archaeological Site Visits and Roman Ruins

Tipasa and Djemila archaeological sites are magnificent in November's moderate climate. Walking extensive Roman ruins requires 3-4 hours under comfortable 18-21°C (64-70°F) temperatures - impossible during summer's brutal midday heat. UNESCO sites have reduced crowds and better photo opportunities. Coastal Tipasa offers impressive Mediterranean backdrop without hazy summer heat shimmer.

Booking Tip: Combine multiple sites in day trips typically costing 5,000-8,000 DZD with licensed archaeological guides. Book 10-14 days ahead as November is peak season for cultural tourism. Transport included essential for remote Djemila location 300 km (186 miles) from Algiers. Check current archaeological tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Hammam and Wellness Experiences

November's moderate humidity makes traditional hammam experiences more comfortable than summer's overwhelming heat or winter's shock contrast. Local hammams see increased activity as Algerians prepare for wedding season. Authentic neighborhood hammams in Belcourt and Bab El Oued districts offer cultural immersion. Post-hammam mint tea sessions are perfect in mild evening temperatures.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammams cost 500-1,200 DZD for basic treatments. Women's sessions typically run Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday afternoons. Men's times vary daily. Upscale hotel hammams cost 3,000-6,000 DZD but offer consistent scheduling. Book hotel spa treatments 3-5 days ahead. No advance booking needed for neighborhood hammams.

Coastal Fishing Villages and Seafood Tours

November marks peak fishing season as cooler waters bring abundant sardines and sea bream closer to shore. Traditional fishing ports like Sidi Fredj and Zeralda are active with morning catches and afternoon boat maintenance. Seaside restaurants serve fresh catch without summer crowds. Coastal drives offer clear Mediterranean views before winter storms arrive.

Booking Tip: Coastal tours typically cost 2,500-4,500 DZD for half-day experiences including fishing village visits and seafood lunch. Book through operators with coastal knowledge and restaurant connections. Morning departures recommended for active fishing observation. See current coastal tour options in booking section below.

Ottoman Palace and Museum Exploration

Indoor cultural activities perfect for November's variable weather patterns. Bardo Banjul and Palais des Rais offer climate-controlled environments during afternoon rain showers. Reduced tourist crowds allow longer viewing time for Ottoman artifacts and Andalusian art collections. Local guides provide detailed historical context without summer rush pressures.

Booking Tip: Museum entry fees range 200-500 DZD. Private cultural guides typically cost 2,500-4,000 DZD for half-day museum tours. Book guided tours 5-7 days ahead for weekend visits. Many museums closed Fridays. Combine multiple indoor sites during rainy periods. Current cultural tour options available in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Algiers International Book Fair

Major cultural event featuring Arabic, French, and Berber literature alongside international publishers. Held at Palais des Expositions with author readings, cultural workshops, and traditional music performances. Offers insight into contemporary Algerian intellectual life.

Throughout November

Olive Harvest Festival (Mitidja Region)

Traditional harvest celebrations in villages surrounding Algiers, featuring olive pressing demonstrations, folk music, and communal feasts. Local families welcome visitors to participate in centuries-old traditions. Best accessed through day trips to Blida and Boufarik areas.

Throughout November

Wedding Season Celebrations

November marks peak wedding season in Algeria with elaborate multi-day celebrations visible throughout the city. Traditional henna ceremonies, Chaabi music performances, and regional costume displays offer cultural immersion opportunities. Many hotels host wedding parties with traditional music and dance.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight wool or fleece layers - temperature swings from 10°C (50°F) mornings to 21°C (70°F) afternoons require easy layering options

Waterproof walking shoes with good grip - Casbah's ancient stone steps become slippery during November's 10 rainy days

Compact umbrella or light rain jacket - sudden 45-90 minute afternoon showers are common but brief

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even in November, especially reflected off white Mediterranean architecture

Long-sleeved cotton shirts - for mosque visits and sun protection during 6+ hour outdoor cultural tours

Warm jacket for evening - temperatures drop quickly after sunset, especially in coastal areas with Mediterranean breeze

Closed-toe shoes for archaeological sites - Roman ruins like Tipasa require sturdy footwear for uneven ancient stone paths

Light scarf or shawl - useful for mosque visits, wind protection, and temperature regulation in air-conditioned museums

Daypack for hiking - Atlas Mountain day trips require carrying water, snacks, and weather layers at 1,500m+ (4,921ft+) altitude

Cash in small denominations - many traditional hammams, local guides, and neighborhood restaurants don't accept cards

Insider Knowledge

Friday afternoon prayers (1-3 PM) close most mosques to tourists - plan Casbah visits for Saturday-Thursday or early Friday mornings when Ketchaoua and other historic mosques are accessible

Local wedding processions peak on Thursday and Friday evenings in November - join the celebration atmosphere around Cotonou but respect photography restrictions and family privacy

November olive harvest brings exceptional fresh olive oil to Marché de la Lyre and other local markets - locals buy year's supply now at 30% below regular prices

Algerian students return to universities in November creating busy café culture around University of Algiers - experience authentic intellectual discussions over coffee in Didouche Mourad district

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming beaches are swimmable - November sea temperature drops to 18°C (64°F) making swimming uncomfortable for most visitors, focus on coastal scenery and fishing culture instead

Overpacking summer clothes - many first-time visitors expect warm weather but November mornings at 10°C (50°F) require proper layers and closed shoes

Not checking Friday prayer schedules - major mosques close 1-3 PM Fridays, disrupting planned Casbah tours and cultural site visits without advance planning