Our advice for the adventurous hoping to travel in November: aim high. From the ‘Roof of Africa’ to a Nicaraguan volcano, Thailand’s lofty rice paddies to Oregon’s snow-capped Mt. Hood, you’ll find your kicks when you see, scale, and ski down these stunning landscapes. Head for the hills and find unforgettable thrills with these travel suggestions from GoTravelDaily experts.
Trek Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains for a Unique High
Ethiopia is celebrated as the ‘Roof of Africa’ – it has more mountains than any other country on the continent. Its highest peak, 15,157ft (4620m) Ras Dashen, is nestled within Ethiopia’s most striking landscape, the Simien range. Geologically speaking, there’s nowhere else like this extraordinary swath of basaltic peaks, pinnacles, gullies, and escarpments, which have been eroded over millions of years. It’s prime trekking terrain, with options ranging from day hikes along ancient paths to a two-week traverse. All routes reveal jaw-dropping views, tiny time-warp villages, and, with luck, endemic wildlife – from walia ibex to gelada monkeys. The dry month of November, when the countryside is still lush from the rains, is an ideal time for exploration.
Trip plan: From the capital Addis Ababa, travel north via Gondar’s castles and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to Debark (the Simiens’ hub). Here, arrange a multi-day hike; for instance, spend five to ten days hiking from Sankaber to Ras Dashen via the Geech Abyss and the breathtaking Imet Gogo lookout.
Need to know: Altitude sickness can be common in Ethiopia – even Addis Ababa is at 7726 ft (2355m). Stay well-hydrated and acclimatize before engaging in strenuous activities.
Through the year: Mar–Apr: warming; May–Jun: warmer, some rain; Jul–Oct: rainy (Jul–Aug: wettest); Nov–Feb: dry, cool.
Visit Nicaragua for Active Volcanoes and Activities Galore
Nicaragua has a multitude of attractions – colonial towns, beaches, wildlife, and adventures – while maintaining fewer tourists. This destination is particularly suitable for families, owing to a wealth of available activities (zip lining, river kayaking, volcano boarding), a relaxed vibe, and a population that adores children. November is an excellent month, with the countryside revitalized from recent rains yet the weather dry and warm (20–28°C; 68–82°F). You might even have the chance to witness olive ridley turtles nesting at Isla Juan Venado (they typically arrive from August to December).
Trip plan: From the capital Managua, head to colonial León. From there, visit Isla Juan Venado and ascend the active slopes of Cerro Negro volcano. Veer south for surf lessons at Pacific-coast Playa los Cardones. Stop at a cacao plantation en route to Lake Nicaragua and volcanic Ometepe Island. Then delve into the cloud forest for zip lining and spotting monkeys, take carriage rides around picturesque Granada, and consider a short flight to the Corn Islands for Caribbean snorkeling and relaxation.
Need to know: Nicaraguan currency is the córdoba; many places accept US dollars.
Through the year: May–Jun: hot, rains start; Jul–Oct: wettest (Sep–Oct: worst); Nov–Apr: dry, warm.
Head to Oregon’s Cascade Range for Early Ski Fun
Mt. Hood, an 11,250ft (3429m) stratovolcano amid the Cascade Range, boasts North America’s longest ski season. Skiing is possible as early as mid-June. However, the winter season typically begins in early November, as snow starts to accumulate and the full range of pistes becomes accessible. Mt. Hood’s Timberline ski area features 41 runs (25% beginner, 50% intermediate, 25% advanced), alongside the Pacific Northwest’s longest vertical drop. Furthermore, the historic Timberline Lodge, built in 1937 as part of a public works program during the Great Depression, is now designated as a National Historic Landmark. It serves as the state’s only ski-in hotel and has appeared in Kubrick’s film The Shining (1980). It provides an atmospheric place to stay whether you’re a ski enthusiast or not.
Trip plan: Enjoy nightlife in Portland before heading to Timberline. Group and private ski/snowboard lessons are available, along with fantastic amenities such as a sauna, hot tub, and heated outdoor pool (open year-round).
Need to know: Timberline is located 62 miles (100km) east of Portland; Mount Hood Express buses operate from Sandy (east of Portland) to the lodge.
Through the year: Jun–Aug: summer skiing; Sep–Oct: potential skiing, dependent on conditions; Nov–May: snow.
Escape to the Hills in Northern Thailand
Northern Thailand, known as Lanna – ‘the land of a million rice fields’, is characterized by cool, mountainous terrain enriched with terraced paddies, fruit trees, and lush jungle. This beautiful region serves as an ideal retreat in November: rains have just ended, leaving everything vibrant and green, while temperatures remain comfortable (23–26°C; 73–79°F); it can get quite chilly from December to February. The laid-back city of Chiang Mai serves as the main hub – engage in a cooking course, haggle at the markets, and arrange excursions into the surrounding hills. Head to Mae Sariang (near the Burmese border) or the Golden Triangle (north of Chiang Rai) for treks amidst waterfalls and local hill tribes. Staying with families in their bamboo stilthouses provides greater insight; witness their unique dress and partake in traditional activities such as cooking or tea picking. While in the north, cycling among rice paddies and exploring ancient ruins is also an option, along with admiring the historical teak houses of Lampang and Phrae.
Trip plan: Fly (70 minutes) or take the train (13 hours) from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Set aside three to four days for hill-tribe treks; consider seven to ten days for more extensive exploration. If you desire beach time, consider adding a visit to Phuket, which is lovely in November.
Need to know: The Loi Krathong festival, where candlelit baskets are floated downriver, generally occurs in November (in 2019, it was held from 11–13 November). It’s best experienced in the northern region.
Other months: Mar–May: hot; Jun–Oct: wet; Nov–Feb: cool, dry.
Article first published September 2017, and last updated September 2019
