Brazil, South America
Rio de Janeiro in November
The wet season starts, with more frequent afternoon rain. Prices still reasonable before December.
The straight answer
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Rio de Janeiro. The wet season starts, with more frequent afternoon rain. Prices still reasonable before December.
- Weather
- Warm and humid, highs near 84F (29C), storms
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Rio de Janeiro
November is the start of Rio's wet season. Highs climb to about 84F (29C), the air turns humid, and afternoon storms become more frequent. Mornings are often bright, and the beaches get busier as the city warms up for summer. Prices are still reasonable, since the December rush has not begun.
It suits flexible travelers who want summer warmth before summer prices and can plan around afternoon rain. If you want dry trails and clear views, go in May, August or September instead. Families wanting calm, predictable days will also do better in those months.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Rio de Janeiro this month.
Summer warmth at shoulder prices
The beaches heat up and the water warms, but hotel rates have not yet jumped for the holidays.
Morning beach sessions
Storms tend to come later, so mornings on Copacabana and Ipanema are often sunny and calm.
Lapa before the holiday crush
Warm nights bring the samba clubs to life, without the December crowds.
What to pack for November
- A packable rain shell for afternoon storms
- High SPF sunscreen
- Quick-dry clothes and a spare pair of sandals
- Insect repellent for evenings and forest trails
Our timing tip
Book any Tijuca hike or viewpoint trip for early morning, and keep a museum or long lunch in reserve for the afternoon storm.
Book Rio de Janeiro for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Rio de JaneiroOpens a hotel search for Rio de Janeiro in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Rio de JaneiroWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Rio de JaneiroTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Rio de Janeiro for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado
Take the cog train through the forest to the statue. Go early in the morning on a clear day; clouds often cover the peak by afternoon.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Two cable cars climb to the summit. Sunset is the classic time, but it is also the busiest.
Ipanema and Copacabana beaches
Each posto (lifeguard station) has its own crowd. Keep valuables minimal and watch for strong currents.
Tijuca National Park
Hike to Pedra Bonita or Pedra da Gavea for views over the city and coast. Go with a guide on the longer trails.
Santa Teresa and the Selaron Steps
A hilltop neighborhood of artists and old mansions, and the tiled staircase that links it to Lapa.
Museu do Amanha
A striking science museum in the revitalized port area, focused on sustainability and the future.
Beat the crowds
- Visit Christ the Redeemer on the first train of the morning on a clear day.
- Go to Sugarloaf in the late morning instead of at sunset to avoid the longest lines.
- May, June, August, and September offer the best weather-to-price ratio.
- For Carnival, consider the smaller street blocos in neighborhoods like Santa Teresa for a less overwhelming experience.
Know before you go
- During Carnival, much of the city closes for business, traffic is disrupted, and many streets are taken over by blocos.
- Heavy summer storms can cause flooding and landslides, disrupting traffic and closing some hillside trails.
- Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf operate daily, but low clouds can mean zero visibility; check the webcams or weather before you go.
- The water off Rio's beaches is coolest in winter, around 70F (21C), and strong currents can close beaches to swimming.
Rio de Janeiro in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Rio de Janeiro. The wet season starts, with more frequent afternoon rain. Prices still reasonable before December.
What is the weather like in Rio de Janeiro in November?
Warm and humid, highs near 84F (29C), storms.
Is Rio de Janeiro crowded in November?
Crowds in Rio de Janeiro are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Rio de Janeiro.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
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