Things to Do in Puebla in November

November Weather in Puebla

24°C (75°F) High Temp

10°C (50°F) Low Temp

8mm (0.3 inches) Rainfall

45% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperature range of 10-24°C (50-75°F) makes all-day walking comfortable without overheating - ideal for exploring the historic center's cobblestone streets
Minimal rainfall (only 2 rainy days) means outdoor activities like climbing Cholula Pyramid or visiting archaeological sites proceed without weather delays
Crystal-clear mountain air provides stunning views of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes - visibility reaches 50+ km (31+ miles) on most November days
Peak season for traditional Mexican hot chocolate and seasonal mole preparations as restaurants prepare for Day of the Dead celebrations

Considerations

Significant temperature swings from 10°C (50°F) at dawn to 24°C (75°F) by afternoon require layered clothing and constant adjustments
High altitude at 2,135m (7,005 ft) combined with dry air causes dehydration faster - first-time visitors often underestimate water needs
Post-Day of the Dead period means some traditional celebrations wind down by mid-November, reducing cultural event opportunities

Best Activities in November

Great Pyramid of Cholula Archaeological Tours

November's dry conditions and moderate temperatures make climbing Mexico's largest pyramid by volume comfortable. The 15km (9.3 miles) from central Puebla offers clear volcano views impossible during rainy season. Morning temperatures of 15°C (59°F) prevent overheating during the 45-minute climb to Nuestra Señora de los Remedios church on top.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through certified archaeological guides. Tours typically cost 800-1,200 pesos including transportation. Morning departures (8-9am) offer best lighting and cooler temperatures. Look for guides certified by INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History).

Puebla Historic Center Walking Tours

November's 45% humidity and comfortable 18-22°C (64-72°F) midday temperatures make 3-4 hour walking tours of the UNESCO World Heritage center pleasant. The dry season means cobblestone streets aren't slippery, and clear skies showcase the baroque architecture's intricate details without harsh summer glare.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work well in November weather, or book certified guides through the Puebla Tourism Office. Professional guides cost 1,500-2,500 pesos for groups up to 8 people. Start tours at 10am when temperatures reach comfortable levels but before afternoon crowds.

Talavera Pottery Workshop Experiences

November's stable humidity levels create ideal conditions for ceramics work - the dry air helps pieces set properly without cracking. Traditional workshops in the Uriarte and Luz neighborhoods operate comfortably with open windows, and the moderate temperatures make kiln areas bearable for extended visits.

Booking Tip: Book authentic workshops 10-14 days ahead during November as this is prime season for pottery making before holiday orders. Workshops cost 1,200-2,000 pesos for 3-4 hour experiences. Seek workshops certified by the Consejo Regulador de Talavera for authentic techniques.

Popocatépetl Volcano Viewing Tours

November offers the year's clearest volcano views with minimal cloud cover and exceptional air quality. The 70km (43 miles) to viewpoints at Paso de Cortés becomes comfortable in moderate temperatures, and the dry season eliminates muddy hiking conditions. Sunrise tours at 5am start at just 8°C (46°F).

Booking Tip: Book volcano tours 7-10 days ahead as November is peak viewing season. Tours cost 2,200-3,500 pesos including transportation and guide. Choose operators with liability insurance and emergency equipment. Verify current volcanic activity levels with CENAPRED before booking.

Puebla Street Food and Market Tours

November's cooler temperatures make sampling hot foods like cemitas, chalupas, and mole comfortable without overheating. The dry season means outdoor markets operate fully with all stalls open. Mercado de Sabores Poblanos and El Parian market buzz with pre-holiday food preparations and seasonal specialties.

Booking Tip: Morning food tours (9-11am) work best when temperatures are mild and food is freshest. Tours cost 900-1,500 pesos for 3-4 hours including tastings. Look for guides certified in food safety and familiar with vendor Spanish for authentic interactions.

Africam Safari Day Trips

Located 17km (10.5 miles) from Puebla, November's moderate temperatures keep animals active throughout the day. The dry season means better road conditions through the 5km (3.1 miles) safari route, and clear skies provide excellent photography conditions. Animals are more visible with reduced vegetation after the rainy season ends.

Booking Tip: Visit midweek in November for smaller crowds and more active animals. Entry costs 350-450 pesos per person plus vehicle fees. Plan 4-5 hours total including travel time. Bring layers as temperatures drop quickly at 2,100m (6,890 ft) elevation when clouds appear.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Festival Internacional de Puebla

This cultural festival features international and Mexican artists performing in historic venues throughout the city. Theater, music, and dance performances take advantage of November's pleasant weather for outdoor stages in plazas and courtyards.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - temperatures swing 14°C (25°F) daily, pack t-shirts, long sleeves, and a warm jacket for early morning/evening

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets in historic center become slippery with morning dew

High-SPF sunscreen (30+) - UV index of 6 at 2,135m (7,005 ft) elevation burns skin quickly despite moderate temperatures

Lip balm and moisturizer - 45% humidity and high altitude cause rapid dehydration of skin and lips

Water bottle (1+ liter capacity) - altitude and dry air require 3-4 liters daily, much more than visitors expect

Light scarf or shawl - essential for visiting churches (modest dress required) and evening temperature drops

Portable phone charger - cold morning temperatures drain batteries faster at high altitude

Cash in small bills - many traditional markets and food vendors don't accept cards, especially for purchases under 100 pesos

Altitude sickness medication - even healthy visitors can experience headaches at 2,135m (7,005 ft), especially first 24-48 hours

Insider Knowledge

Visit Cholula in the afternoon (2-4pm) when west-facing slopes offer the best photography lighting and Popocatépetl views become crystal clear

Locals eat the heaviest meal at 2-3pm when temperatures peak, then switch to hot drinks and lighter foods as evening temperatures drop - follow this pattern to stay comfortable

November is when abuela recipes for mole poblano get passed down - many families prepare massive batches for upcoming holidays, creating exceptional restaurant quality citywide

The week after Day of the Dead (November 8-15, 2025) offers the best hotel rates as international tourists leave but weather remains perfect - book this window for 30-40% savings

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating altitude effects - visitors often skip the first day rest period and push too hard, leading to headaches and fatigue that ruin the entire trip

Wearing only cotton layers - November's temperature swings require moisture-wicking base layers since you'll sweat during afternoon walks and freeze in pure cotton when evening hits

Planning outdoor activities only during 'warm' afternoon hours - mornings from 8-11am offer the most comfortable temperatures and best light for photography, plus smaller crowds