Melekeok in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Melekeok

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

262 mm (10.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Optimal water visibility for diving and snorkeling - November sits between major storm seasons with clearest waters at 15-20 m (49-66 ft) visibility around outer reefs
Mangrove wildlife activity peaks as migratory birds arrive from northern routes, making kayak tours through Ngardmau waterways exceptionally rewarding
Traditional taro harvest season brings authentic cultural experiences - locals invite visitors to participate in community harvests and traditional cooking demonstrations
Lowest accommodation rates of the year - resort prices drop 25-40% compared to dry season peaks, with many properties offering November-specific packages

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly around 2-4 PM on 60% of days, lasting 45-90 minutes with little warning for outdoor activities
High humidity makes physical activities feel more strenuous - hiking the Ngardmau Falls trail feels significantly harder than in drier months
Some outer island day trips may be cancelled on short notice due to rough seas, particularly to Palau and Palau with cancellation rates around 20%

Best Activities in November

Rock Islands Kayaking Expeditions

November's variable weather creates dramatic cloud formations over the Palau, perfect for photography. Morning tours (7-11 AM) avoid afternoon storms while catching optimal lighting through the mushroom-shaped limestone formations. Water levels are ideal for accessing hidden lagoons that become too shallow in dry season.

Booking Tip: Book morning departures 5-7 days ahead through established operators with weather contingency policies. Tours typically cost $85-120 per person including equipment and guide. Look for operators offering rescheduling guarantees for weather cancellations.

Jellyfish Lake Snorkeling Tours

November brings the highest jellyfish populations as cooler waters increase their activity levels. The non-stinging golden jellyfish are most active during morning hours (8-11 AM), creating optimal viewing conditions before afternoon weather patterns develop.

Booking Tip: Reserve 10-14 days ahead as daily visitor numbers are limited to protect the ecosystem. Expect to pay $75-95 per person including marine park fees. Choose operators with marine biologist guides for enhanced educational value.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

November taro harvest season offers authentic cultural immersion opportunities rarely available other times of year. Participate in traditional harvesting techniques, learn ancestral cooking methods, and witness community cooperation practices that define Palauan culture.

Booking Tip: Arrange through community-based tourism programs 1-2 weeks ahead, typically $45-65 per person including traditional lunch. Morning tours (9 AM-2 PM) work best around harvest schedules and afternoon weather patterns.

Capitol Complex Historical Tours

November's cooler mornings make walking tours of Melekeok's government buildings comfortable before midday heat. The architectural significance and political history are best appreciated during guided tours that explain Palau's unique democratic transition and traditional leadership integration.

Booking Tip: Schedule morning tours (8-10 AM) to avoid afternoon storms. Book 3-5 days ahead through licensed cultural guides, typically $25-40 per person. Combine with nearby traditional village visits for full-day cultural immersion.

Ngardmau Waterfall Hiking Adventures

November rainfall keeps the 9 m (30 ft) waterfall at peak flow while morning departures avoid both afternoon storms and peak heat. The 2.4 km (1.5 mile) jungle trail showcases diverse endemic species most active during November's moderate temperatures.

Booking Tip: Start early (7-8 AM) to complete the 3-4 hour round trip before weather changes. Book with guides familiar with seasonal trail conditions, typically $55-75 per person. Waterproof hiking boots essential for muddy trail sections.

Blue Corner Drift Diving Expeditions

November offers optimal diving conditions at Palau's premier shark site with water temperatures at comfortable 28-29°C (82-84°F) and currents bringing nutrient-rich waters that attract large pelagic species. Visibility reaches 20-25 m (66-82 ft) between storm systems.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through PADI-certified operators with safety boats. Two-tank dives typically cost $120-160 per person. Advanced Open Water certification required due to strong currents and 30 m (98 ft) maximum depth.

November Events & Festivals

November 9

Independence Day Celebrations

November 9th marks Palau's independence with traditional dancing, local food festivals, and cultural demonstrations in Melekeok. The Capitol Complex hosts official ceremonies while villages throughout Palau organize community celebrations showcasing traditional crafts and storytelling.

Throughout November

Traditional Taro Harvest Festival

Community celebrations throughout November mark the taro harvest season with traditional cooking competitions, cultural storytelling, and hands-on demonstrations of ancestral farming techniques. Villages rotate hosting duties, creating multiple opportunities for cultural participation.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket with hood - afternoon storms develop rapidly and last 45-90 minutes with minimal shelter available on outdoor excursions

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ in waterproof containers - UV index of 8 requires strong protection, and many areas prohibit chemical sunscreens

Waterproof hiking boots with good tread - November rainfall creates muddy, slippery conditions on jungle trails like Ngardmau Falls

Lightweight merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking shirts - avoid cotton which stays wet in 70% humidity conditions

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - essential for water activities and sudden rain exposure

Insect repellent with DEET 25-30% - November's moisture increases mosquito activity, particularly in mangrove areas

Quick-dry shorts and lightweight pants - versatility needed for changing weather and cultural site visit requirements

Water shoes with secure straps - rocky coastlines and coral protection require sturdy footwear for water activities

Small daypack with rain cover - daily weather changes require carrying extra layers and protection

Electrolyte supplements or powder - high humidity and physical activities increase dehydration risk significantly

Insider Knowledge

Morning activities (7-11 AM) offer the best weather windows - locals plan all outdoor work during these hours to avoid afternoon storms and peak heat

Taro season brings community invitations - staying in village guesthouses during November often leads to spontaneous invitations to participate in harvest activities and traditional feasts

November accommodation rates drop significantly but book early anyway - many smaller properties close for maintenance, reducing available rooms despite lower demand

Local fishing boats offer the most affordable island transfers - negotiate directly with fishermen at Melekeok dock for trips to nearby islands at 30-50% less than tour operators

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 1 PM without backup plans - afternoon storms are predictable but tourists often ignore weather patterns and lose entire afternoon experiences

Packing only synthetic fabrics - while quick-dry materials help with rain, they become uncomfortably hot and retain odors in Palau's high humidity environment

Expecting reliable internet for last-minute bookings - November's variable weather makes advance planning essential, but many visitors try to book activities day-of when operators are already committed or weather-delayed