Port Vila in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Port Vila

29°C (84°F) High Temp

21°C (69°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect sailing conditions with consistent southeast trade winds averaging 15-20 knots - ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors without the intensity of cyclone season
Shoulder season pricing means accommodation costs drop 25-40% compared to peak July-August period, with many resorts offering extended stay packages
Sea temperature reaches optimal 26°C (79°F) for snorkeling and diving, with 25-30m (82-98ft) visibility as plankton blooms subside after October rains
Mango season peaks in November - local varieties like Nam Doc Mai and Philippines are at their sweetest, available at markets for 50-80 vatu per kilo

Considerations

Variable weather patterns mean some days have brief but intense afternoon showers (20-30 minutes) that can disrupt outdoor lunch plans - indoor venues fill quickly
Humidity consistently above 70% makes midday activities feel more strenuous than temperature suggests - early morning starts become essential
Some outer island tours may be cancelled 2-3 days per month due to choppy seas during weather transitions

Best Activities in November

Efate Island Circumnavigation Tours

November's stable weather and calm seas create perfect conditions for full-island tours. The 132 km (82 mile) coastal route offers impressive views without the harsh winds of dry season or heavy rains of peak wet season. Morning departures avoid afternoon heat buildup.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators. Tours typically cost 8,000-12,000 vatu and include lunch. Look for operators with covered vehicles and flexible timing for weather. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Port Vila Harbor Kayaking and Snorkeling

The harbor's protected waters and November's moderate winds create ideal conditions for beginner kayakers. Water clarity improves significantly after October's settling period, revealing coral gardens just 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 miles) from the city center.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost 4,500-6,500 vatu. Book morning sessions (8am-12pm) to avoid afternoon weather changes. Equipment and basic instruction included with reputable operators. Check current availability in the booking widget below.

Cascade Waterfall Hiking Expeditions

November strikes the perfect balance - waterfalls maintain good flow from October rains without dangerous flood conditions. The 3-hour trek through tropical forest benefits from moderate humidity and fewer mosquitos than wet season months.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes typically cost 3,500-5,000 vatu including transport. Start early (7am departure) to complete the 8 km (5 mile) round trip before midday heat. Sturdy hiking boots essential for 200m (656ft) elevation gain. Current tours available below.

Ekasup Cultural Village Experiences

November coincides with custom ceremonies and traditional food preparation using seasonal ingredients. The village's tree house tours and cultural demonstrations benefit from comfortable temperatures and the community's post-harvest availability.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours cost 2,500-3,500 vatu for 2-3 hours. Afternoon sessions (2pm-5pm) work well as village activities peak after lunch. Book through village-approved operators who contribute to community funds. See booking options below.

Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary Diving

November offers exceptional underwater visibility reaching 30m (98ft) as post-rain sediment settles. The world's only underwater post office operates in ideal conditions, with calm seas making this perfect for both beginners and certification dives.

Booking Tip: Diving packages range 8,500-15,000 vatu depending on certification level and equipment needs. Book 5-7 days ahead during November's moderate demand. Two-tank dives include gear and boat transport. Current diving tours available in the booking section.

Iririki Island Resort Day Passes

The short ferry ride and island facilities provide perfect respite during November's variable weather. Indoor and outdoor dining options, plus the island's elevated position offers cooling breezes that city venues lack during humid spells.

Booking Tip: Day passes cost 2,000-3,000 vatu including ferry and basic amenities. Book directly or through hotel concierges. Passes include pool access and restaurant privileges. Weather-flexible option when outdoor tours cancel. Check current packages below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Vanuatu Cultural Festival

Annual celebration of traditional music, dance, and crafts from all six provinces. Features authentic lap lap cooking demonstrations, string band competitions, and traditional weaving workshops. Takes place across multiple venues in Vanuatu.

Late November

Kauri Festival

Showcases contemporary Ni-Vanuatu art, music, and performance alongside traditional culture. Local artists display work at the Vanuatu Cultural Centre and various galleries around town. Evening performances feature fusion of traditional and modern styles.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight merino wool or moisture-wicking synthetic shirts - cotton becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity and takes hours to dry

Quick-dry shorts and pants - November's brief showers mean wet clothing needs to dry fast, synthetic materials dry 3-4x faster than cotton

Reef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 causes burns in 15-20 minutes, and coral-damaging chemicals are increasingly restricted

Packable rain jacket or poncho - afternoon showers arrive suddenly and last 20-30 minutes, often when you're furthest from shelter

Breathable hiking boots with good grip - waterfall and volcano hikes involve muddy, slippery sections especially after rain

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitos are most active during November's humid evenings, particularly near water

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - essential for snorkeling, kayaking, and protecting electronics during sudden downpours

Light cardigan or long sleeves for air-conditioned restaurants - indoor venues over-compensate for humidity, creating 10-15°C (18-27°F) temperature differences

Reef shoes or water shoes - rocky coastlines and coral areas require protection, and November's calm seas encourage more water activities

Power bank and universal adapter - humidity can affect battery life, and outlets use Type I (Australian) plugs exclusively

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (tap taps) run most frequently 6am-9am and 4pm-7pm when locals commute - perfect timing to avoid midday heat while getting authentic transport experience for 150 vatu

Thursday and Saturday markets open at dawn (5:30am) for best selection of seasonal produce - mangoes, breadfruit, and fresh coconuts are peak quality and lowest priced before tourist crowds arrive

Many restaurants offer 'yachtie specials' during November shoulder season - substantial meals for 1,500-2,500 vatu aimed at visiting sailors, often better value than tourist menus

Book accommodation on the windward (southeast) side of town for natural cooling - properties like those along Kumul Highway get consistent trade wind breeze reducing need for air conditioning

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking outdoor activities for midday (11am-3pm) when humidity makes 29°C (84°F) feel like 35°C (95°F) - locals schedule everything for early morning or late afternoon

Packing only cotton clothing - it stays wet for hours in 70% humidity and becomes uncomfortable quickly, synthetic or merino materials essential

Assuming rain means cancelled plans - November showers are typically brief and localized, many activities continue with proper rain gear