Things to Do in Nicaragua in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Nicaragua
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Fewer crowds at major attractions - November sits between high tourist seasons, meaning 40% fewer visitors at Granada and San Juan del Sur compared to December-January
- Lush, green landscapes from recent rains - the countryside is at its most photogenic after the wet season, with waterfalls at full flow and volcanic slopes emerald green
- Perfect surfing conditions on Pacific coast - consistent 1.2-1.8m (4-6 ft) swells with offshore winds, water temperature at comfortable 27°C (81°F)
- Ideal wildlife viewing - many species are active before dry season dormancy, and clearer trails after October's heaviest rains make hiking more accessible
Considerations
- Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms - roughly 60% of days see 1-2 hour downpours between 2-4pm, which can disrupt outdoor plans and make some rural roads temporarily impassable
- High humidity makes heat feel more intense - 70% humidity combined with 31°C (88°F) temperatures creates a feels-like temperature of 35°C (95°F) during midday
- Some remote attractions may have limited access - secondary roads to places like Río San Juan can be muddy, and boat schedules to Solentiname Islands are weather-dependent
Best Activities in November
Volcano hiking and crater exploration
November offers ideal conditions for volcano access with trails dried out from October's heavy rains but landscapes still lush. Masaya crater provides dramatic nighttime lava viewing without dry season dust clouds, while Concepción and Maderas on Ometepe Island offer clear summit views before December's peak crowds. Morning hikes (6am starts) avoid afternoon storms and intense heat.
Colonial city walking and cultural immersion
November's weather is perfect for exploring Granada and León's colonial architecture. Morning temperatures of 23-26°C (73-79°F) make walking comfortable, while afternoon rain storms provide natural breaks for museum visits and café stops. The cities are less crowded than peak season, allowing for better photography and more authentic local interactions.
Pacific coast surfing and beach activities
November delivers some of Nicaragua's best surf conditions with consistent swells, offshore winds, and fewer crowds than dry season months. San Juan del Sur and surrounding beaches like Maderas and Hermosa have ideal 1.2-1.8m (4-6 ft) waves. Water temperature stays warm at 27°C (81°F), and afternoon storms typically hit inland, leaving beaches sunny.
Coffee farm tours and highland exploration
November marks the beginning of coffee harvest season in regions like Matagalpa and Jinotega. Farm tours showcase the picking process, and cooler highland temperatures (18-24°C/64-75°F) provide relief from coastal humidity. The landscapes are lush from recent rains, and morning fog creates dramatic scenery perfect for photography.
Lake Nicaragua island exploration
November's moderate rainfall leaves Lake Nicaragua's islands accessible while maintaining lush vegetation. Ometepe Island offers ideal conditions for nature walks, petroglyphs viewing, and volcano hikes. Ferry schedules are more reliable than during heavy October rains, and accommodation prices haven't reached December peak levels.
Wildlife watching and nature reserves
November is excellent for wildlife observation as animals are active before dry season water scarcity. Reserves like Mombacho and Indio Maíz show peak biodiversity with recent rains supporting abundant bird and mammal activity. Cloud forests are particularly rewarding with morning mist creating ideal conditions for spotting howler monkeys and exotic birds.
November Events & Festivals
La Purísima Celebrations
Nicaragua's most important religious celebration honoring the Virgin Mary takes place throughout November, culminating December 8th. November features neighborhood altars, traditional music, and nightly processions. Visitors can participate in altar visits where locals offer traditional foods and drinks for free - a unique cultural immersion opportunity.
Coffee Harvest Festivals
Highland regions celebrate the beginning of coffee harvest with local festivals featuring traditional music, dance, and coffee competitions. Matagalpa and Jinotega host the largest celebrations with opportunities to participate in picking contests and taste fresh harvest coffee preparations.