The Red City offers a perfect balance of warm days to cool nights, gentle breezes and star studded skies. The comfortable temperatures, clear skies, rich dunes and bright culture, all make Marrakech a place to be no matter which culture you belong to.
While there is no wrong time to visit Marrakech considering the enchanting views, the rich streets, amazing cuisine and handmade cultural goods, the right choice of weather makes the entire trip worth it. Especially during the spring season, the region is filled with tourists who are amazed by the skies and chatter in the street.
On the contrary, the hot months of June and July make it tough to spend time out in the open streets, but the beauty of the Red City doesn’t fail to amaze anyway. We recommend you visit Marrakech during the right weather as it can amaze you in many ways. In this article, we will discuss the best time of year to visit Marrakech so your trip becomes comfortable and relaxed.
What is the best time to go to Marrakech?
Not just the best weather adventure-wise, but the right weather to keep you cool in the Red City. The kind of weather which makes your endless market stroll memorable gives you plenty of time to shop and chat with the locals while enjoying the local delicacies at the most. Visiting Marrakech during such a season makes your entire trip worth the distance, the money and the time spent. While we love a Marrakech trip during the bright Christmas and happening New Year, a trip around the spring season has its charm.
So without further ado, let’s explore the best weather to visit Marrakech whether you are a first-time traveller or want a pleasant season this time around.
March to May
There are several reasons why people choose to visit the Red City for their yearly holiday. If you are a fan of pleasant weather, rooftop views and memorable evenings then the three month window from March to May is your best bet. This is when the sun finally starts to warm up the atmosphere and you can actually enjoy the time sitting out in the open.
From early March, temperatures, especially at night, start to rise, making evenings perfect for dining on rooftop terraces while the scent of orange blossoms fills the air. By May, as you explore the art galleries and architecture of Gueliz, don’t miss the jacaranda trees that add vibrant colour along the main avenues. During Easter, the city becomes crowded with travellers, so it’s advisable to have a general plan, particularly for popular spots like Jardin Majorelle, where timed-entry tickets must be booked in advance.
As summer hits in June, temperatures can soar to 45ºC, prompting many to escape to the cooler High Atlas Mountains, just visible from the medina rooftops, where the temperature is a refreshing 10ºC. The city comes alive again in early autumn as locals return to their busy routines and galleries unveil new exhibitions. With increased tourist activity during Europe’s half-term holidays, it’s best to book accommodations, guides, and restaurants well ahead of time.
The December Style
As the new year approaches so does searches for the best and most famous travel destination of the year. At this time many tourists choose Morocco due to the vibrant nightlife around late December and early January. The New Year fireworks are mesmerizing, and party time in Morocco is never dull, safe to say Marrakech in February has a whole new vibe. If you are a fan of fun-filled New Year Celebrations then Marrakech is your ultimate choice.
However, you will be greeted with expensive tickets, high-fare accommodations and a crowd at the airport. As for adventures, there are lots of art galleries, desert rides, fireworks displays and clubs to seal the day. Not to forget, you will love restaurant excursions during this time of the year.
During the Monsoon Season
From June to August, Marrakesh attracts Moroccan expatriates returning for summer holidays, with weddings being a popular celebration. This is also the best time to find deals on riads and hotels, especially those with pools and air-conditioning, which are essential for staying cool. The Palmeraie’s hotels and resorts are ideal for poolside relaxation under the scorching sun.
For exploring the medina or Gueliz, it’s best to start your day early and retreat to the pool during the hottest part of the afternoon. Later in the evening, you can still go out and explore the city a bit more. While the summer nights are too warm to stay out in the open, there is no reason you should be staying indoors, especially in Morocco.
Some Factors to Consider for the Best Time to Visit Marrakech
The answer to the question of how long to spend in Marrakech depends greatly on the timeline you choose for your tripl. The weather, highs and lows in the temperature, windy or quiet all greatly govern how hospitable Morocco is going to be weather-wise. This means that whether you choose Marrakech in February or December, the activities and the number of days spent in the city will vary accordingly. Hence you can have different types of trips to Marrakech during different months of the year.
To choose the most ideal travel plan for your Morocco trip, here are some factors that impact the best time to visit Marrakech based on your travel goals!
Cultural Festivals
Marrakesh hosts a range of vibrant cultural festivals throughout the year, like the Marrakech International Film Festival and the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music. These events offer an immersive cultural experience with music, art, and traditional performances. Visiting during these times provides a unique glimpse into Morocco’s rich heritage.
Moderate Weather
The best time to experience Marrakesh’s moderate weather is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Daytime temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 20ºC to 30ºC making it perfect for outdoor exploration. The cooler evenings make it ideal for rooftop dining and evening strolls. If you enjoy long walks, strolling in the Bazaars and trying out local cart cuisine, then autumn or spring season is the safest choice.
Cheap Accommodations
Accommodation prices tend to drop during the summer months when the heat keeps many tourists away. This is when you’ll find more affordable riads, hotels, and resorts, offering deals for those willing to brave the high temperatures. It’s an excellent time for budget-conscious travellers looking to enjoy luxury for less.
Less Crowd
Visiting during the off-peak months, such as late spring and fall, means fewer tourists crowding popular sites like Jardin Majorelle and the souks. This allows for a more relaxed experience and the opportunity to fully appreciate the city’s beauty without the overwhelming tourist rush.
Festive Atmosphere
Marrakesh comes alive with energy during major holidays, like Eid and New Year’s, with festive markets, special events, and celebrations. This is the time to experience the city at its most lively and vibrant, with local traditions and celebrations adding to the charm.
Cooler Mountain Escape
During the scorching summer months, the nearby High Atlas Mountains offer a refreshing escape from the heat of Marrakesh. A short trip to the mountains provides cooler temperatures and a chance for hiking, making it the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts looking to cool off and explore the natural beauty of the region.
Morocco – An Evergreen Destination for Every Season
Morocco is a culturally rich, vibrant, lively and refreshing tropical travel destination for all year-round tourists. Though some seasons make Morocco more appealing and comfortable for people visiting from across the world, the choice to book your Marrakech trip comes down to personal choice. Either way, the city is pleasant to visit, with lots of tourist attractions and beautiful scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which activities are best during hot summer, besides pool and evening?
You can enjoy indoor activities. There are many. You can explore museums, art galleries, and air-conditioned shops.
Q2: Do religious holidays beyond New Year’s impact travel plans?
Yes, the country might shut down during festive holidays. But there are many activities that you can enjoy regardless.
Q3: What are typical accommodation costs during peak versus off-peak seasons?
Like any other country, the peak seasons here too are more expensive. However, you can enjoy cheaper deals during off-peak (summer).
