The dry season finally arrives in November, bringing heaps of sunshine and agreeable temperatures. Plus, this month Cuba hosts some of the most popular festivals of the year. The tourist floodgates begin to open also, but not so much than Cuba feels crowded, and expect higher hotel and other rates than in prior months.
November in Cuba: A Comprehensive Guide
## Weather in November
As November graces Cuba, the heavy rains of the summer season gradually subside, although the possibility of occasional showers still lingers in the air. Temperatures begin to mellow into what many consider a “Goldilocks zone”—not too hot, not too cold, but just right! Travelers can anticipate average temperatures hovering around 75°F (24°C), with the average maximum reaching approximately 84°F (29°C) in the vibrant capital city of Havana. Venture eastward to cities like Camagüey and Santiago de Cuba, and other destinations within the Oriente region, and you might experience temperatures that are just a couple of degrees warmer.
However, there is one exception to this delightful weather pattern: Baracoa. Unlike the rest of the island, Baracoa experiences its highest rainfall of the entire year during the winter months, specifically October, November, and December. During this period, rain can fall in torrents, potentially impacting outdoor activities. Nevertheless, for the majority of Cuba, November presents a truly wonderful time to explore its many charms.
## Crowds and Costs in November
The influx of visitors to Cuba sees a noticeable uptick by late November, signaling the approaching peak tourist season. However, the full force of the high season doesn’t arrive until the following month, when “snowbirds” from Canada and northern Europe descend upon the island seeking refuge from the frigid temperatures back home. Many of these travelers flock to the all-inclusive resorts located in popular destinations such as Varadero and other stunning beach resorts. It’s worth noting that these all-inclusive resorts can become quite crowded and boisterous, often featuring piped-in music and organized group activities.
As demand increases, hotel rates and airfares tend to rise during this period. Securing accommodations, particularly in the most sought-after lodgings, can become challenging, as they often fill up by late November. Therefore, meticulous planning and early bookings are highly recommended for those intending to visit Cuba during this month.
## Where to Embark on Your Cuban Adventure in November
With the exception of Baracoa, practically every corner of Cuba offers an enticing experience in November, thanks to the agreeable weather conditions that prevail throughout the island. Canadian and European visitors, eager to escape the winter chill, often prioritize beach vacations, with Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Cayo Levisa emerging as prime destinations. However, it’s important to note that Cayo Levisa lacks a resident Cuban community.
For those seeking a blend of sun-soaked relaxation, exhilarating snorkeling adventures, and immersive cultural experiences, Varadero and Guardalavaca are excellent choices. From Varadero, you can easily embark on excursions to the nearby cities of Matanzas and Cárdenas, while from Guardalavaca, you can explore the captivating cities of Holguín and Banes. These excursions provide a fantastic opportunity to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Cuba while enjoying the pleasures of a beach vacation.
The well-trodden Havana-Viñales-Cienfuegos-Trinidad circuit, a favorite among tourists, tends to become exceptionally crowded by December. Therefore, November presents an opportune moment to experience these iconic destinations before the tourist throngs arrive. Moreover, a visit to Viñales during November coincides with the tobacco-planting season, adding a unique layer of cultural interest to your exploration. And in Cienfuegos, you’ll have the chance to partake in the city’s most significant annual festival, a vibrant celebration of the music of the legendary Benny Moré.
## What Activities Await You in Cuba in November?
Havana comes alive in November with a host of major events that capture the city’s vibrant spirit. One of the most anticipated is the Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano, a celebration of Latin American cinema that draws locals in droves to movie theaters throughout the city. Many of the films screened are subtitled, making them accessible to international audiences. Combine your cinematic adventures with visits to museums, historical sites, and other iconic landmarks. The Cine Yara, prominently located atop La Rampa (Calle 23 & L), serves as a key venue for the festival and is conveniently situated across the street from Coppelia, an iconic ice cream parlor where you can indulge in a sweet treat alongside the locals.
With relatively light traffic and the absence of the overwhelming crowds that descend upon Cuba in December, November presents an ideal time for an unforgettable road trip that spans the length of the island. Embark on a journey along the Carretera Central, heading eastward all the way to Santiago de Cuba, and discover a plethora of captivating destinations along the way. For a memorable round-trip experience, consider returning via the Circuito Norte—the north coast road—and making detours across the pedraplenes (causeways) to the idyllic islands of Cayo Coco and Cayos de Villa Clara.
## November Events in Cuba
**Festival del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano, Havana:** Cubans are avid movie enthusiasts, and their passion for cinema is evident during the New Latinamerican Movie Festival. This prestigious event showcases avant-garde films from across the Americas, attracting large audiences and transforming Havana into a cinematic hub. While Havana serves as the primary venue, other cities throughout Cuba also participate in the festival.
**Festival Internacional de Música Benny More, Cienfuegos:** The captivating Caribbean port city of Cienfuegos erupts in a whirlwind of festivities as it celebrates the life and legacy of Benny Moré, an iconic composer, bandleader, and singer revered as one of the greatest figures in Cuban music history.
**Havana Classical Music Festival, Havana:** Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music as concert halls, churches, and cultural centers throughout Havana host captivating performances of classical and chamber music. This festival pays homage to Estebán Salas, a prominent 18th-century Cuban composer.
**Marahabana Marathon:** Join thousands of Cubans and international runners as they participate in Cuba’s annual marathon race, a challenging and exhilarating event that also includes 5km and 10km races. The day before the marathon, witness the vibrant Maracuba, a mass participation event that sees tens of thousands of Cubans taking a lap around the course.
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