When you plan a trip to Morocco, the weather in Marrakech really shapes your experience. The city gets long, hot summers and mild winters, with just a little rain all year. If you want comfortable weather, head to Marrakech in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when daytime temperatures feel warm but not overwhelming.
In these seasons, you can lose track of time wandering the medina, browsing souks, or just relaxing in a riad courtyard without sweating through your clothes. Spring brings out blooming gardens and bursts of purple jacaranda trees. Autumn has clear skies and cool evenings, so strolling through Djemaa el-Fna feels extra nice.
If you’re hoping to dodge the biggest crowds or snag better prices, winter works well. You get mild days and fewer tourists, though nights can be surprisingly chilly. Summer? It turns up the heat to the extreme—maybe too much for sightseeing, unless you’re all about lounging by a pool.
Overview of Marrakech’s Climate
People call Marrakech the Red City for a reason. Its hot semi-arid climate comes from being so close to the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. You’ll notice long, dry summers and mild winters, with big temperature swings between day and night. Rain doesn’t show up much, but seasonal changes still matter for travel plans.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Spring and autumn really deliver the best weather. From March to May, you’ll see daytime temperatures between 15–29°C (59–84°F). Gardens come to life, and it’s perfect for exploring the medina or taking a day trip to the Atlas Mountains.
Summer, stretching from June to August, gets seriously hot. Highs often soar past 38°C (100°F), and July sometimes tops 45°C (113°F). Walking around outdoors at midday feels rough, but hotel pools and shady courtyards give you a break.
Autumn, from September to November, cools things down to 11–32°C (52–90°F). Clear skies and harvest time make it a great season for cultural events and getting outdoors.
Winter, from December to February, feels mild compared to Europe or North America. Daytime highs reach 20°C (68°F), but nights can drop near 6°C (43°F). You’ll want warm layers after sunset, especially if you’re staying in a riad with an open courtyard.
Temperature Variations Throughout the Year
Marrakech swings wildly between day and night temps. In summer, you might see a 15°C (27°F) difference, with blazing afternoons and much cooler evenings. That’s just part of life in a desert-influenced city.
July and August bring the most heat. Average highs stick around 37–38°C (99–100°F), but the occasional heatwave can push things higher. You’ll need air conditioning and shade to stay sane.
January is the coldest month. Daytime highs average 19°C (66°F), and nights can slip down to 6°C (43°F). Snow almost never falls in the city, but the High Atlas Mountains nearby often get heavy snow.
April, May, September, and October feel the most balanced. Temperatures hover in the low to mid-20s °C (70s °F), so you can comfortably explore markets, gardens, and historic spots.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
Rain barely makes an appearance in Marrakech. The city averages only about 250–300 mm (10–12 inches) of rain per year, and most of it falls between November and February. Showers usually don’t stick around long and are followed by blue skies.
Summer is basically bone dry. June, July, and August can go by with almost no measurable rain. The air gets dusty, especially when desert winds sweep through.
Humidity stays low nearly all year, which means even high temperatures don’t feel as stifling as they do in coastal places. Still, the dryness can be tough, so keep water handy and don’t skimp on sunscreen.
In winter, humidity picks up a little with the rain, but it’s still much drier than northern Europe or the Mediterranean. A rain jacket can come in handy, but heavy storms are rare.
Spring in Marrakech: March to May
Spring brings some of the most comfortable conditions you’ll find in Marrakech. Days are warm, evenings are cool, and gardens all over the city burst into bloom. The city also comes alive with cultural events and lively markets, so you get to see the Red City at its best.
Ideal Conditions for Exploring the City
From March through May, daily highs usually sit between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F). It’s easy to walk the medina, check out gardens like Jardin Majorelle, or hang out in rooftop cafés without melting in the heat.
Rain is light and doesn’t stick around, so your outdoor plans rarely get interrupted. Evenings, especially in April, can get a bit chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
Clear skies and mild temperatures make this the best time for day trips. You can hike in the Atlas Mountains, explore nearby valleys, or tour palaces and mosques without the tough sun that shows up later in the year.
Spring Events and Festivals
Spring often lines up with cultural and artistic events that spotlight Moroccan traditions. You might catch music and dance performances, food markets, or regional fairs that invite both locals and visitors.
Depending on the year, religious and seasonal celebrations also pop up. These events let you experience Marrakech beyond the usual tourist trail, with real gatherings in public squares and community spots.
Markets get especially lively in spring. Fresh oranges, figs, and herbs fill the stalls, and the air smells like blossoms. This seasonal vibe makes wandering the souks more colorful and fun than at other times.
Tips for Visiting During Spring
Book your place to stay early, since spring is one of the busiest travel seasons. Riads in the medina fill up fast, and prices climb with demand. If you reserve a few months ahead, you’ll get better choices and deals.
Pack layers, since temperatures shift from day to night. Comfortable shoes are a must for those cobblestone streets and busy markets.
To dodge the biggest crowds, hit popular spots like Jemaa el-Fnaa or Bahia Palace in the morning. If you’ve got more time, think about pairing Marrakech with a quick trip to the coast or mountains—spring weather is great there too.
Summer in Marrakech: June to August
Summer cranks up the heat in Marrakech, but you’ll also find quieter streets, cheaper hotels, and some unique ways to experience the city and its surroundings. With a bit of planning, you can still enjoy cultural sites, day trips, and evening outings while steering clear of the harsh midday sun.
Heat and How to Stay Comfortable
Daytime temperatures in summer often shoot above 40°C (104°F). The dry desert air makes it less sticky than you might expect, but it’s still a challenge if you’re outside for long. Nights drop a bit, usually into the mid-20s°C (70s°F), but they’re still warm.
To stay comfortable, get your outdoor exploring done early or after sunset. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the city feels like an oven, so that’s a good time to check out museums, palaces, or just chill in a shaded courtyard.
Pick a place to stay with air conditioning and a pool. Many traditional riads don’t have reliable cooling, so double-check before you book. Go for light, breathable clothes—think cotton or linen. And don’t forget an insulated water bottle, since dehydration sneaks up fast.
Need to escape the heat? Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, where it’s often 10–15°C cooler than in the city.
Popular Summer Activities
Even with the heat, summer lets you enjoy Marrakech at a slower, quieter pace. Early mornings are perfect for exploring the souks or visiting landmarks like Bahia Palace and the Koutoubia Mosque before the crowds and the sun get intense.
Evenings in Jemaa el-Fnaa square come alive with food stalls, storytellers, and street performers. The air cools off, so you can soak up the energy without feeling wiped out.
It’s also a good season for camel rides just outside the city. Short treks in the Palmeraie are popular, and if you’re up for it, longer overnight trips into the desert mean you get cooler evenings.
If you’re into nature, the Atlas Mountains offer hiking, waterfalls, and visits to small Berber villages. It’s a refreshing escape from the city’s heat and shows a totally different side of Morocco.
Travel Costs and Crowds in Summer
Summer counts as the low season in Marrakech, since many travelers avoid the extreme heat. You’ll find lower hotel rates than in spring or autumn, sometimes with big discounts at mid-range and luxury places.
Attractions are less crowded, so you can explore spots like the Saadian Tombs or the Museum of Marrakech without lines or noise. Wandering around feels more relaxed if you pace yourself.
Flights might be cheaper too, though it depends on where you’re coming from. Restaurants and shops stay open, but some outdoor markets slow down during the hottest hours.
If you’re on a budget and can handle the heat, summer gives you good value and a much calmer vibe.
Autumn in Marrakech: September to November
Autumn in Marrakech means warm days, cooler nights, and fewer crowds than you’ll see in summer. You get comfortable weather for sightseeing, harvest festivals, and outdoor trips into the surrounding landscapes.
Weather Advantages in Fall
From September to November, daytime highs usually land between 25°C and 28°C (77°F–82°F). Nights cool down to the mid-teens Celsius, so bring a light jacket for evenings.
Humidity stays low, and rain is rare, though you might catch a quick shower in late autumn. The milder climate makes walking the souks or visiting gardens like Majorelle much more pleasant than in summer.
Clearer skies make this a great time to visit the Atlas Mountains for day trips. The lower heat and manageable temps make hiking and exploring safer and more enjoyable.
Events and Local Experiences
Autumn lines up with a few cultural and seasonal events. In October, the Date Festival in southern Morocco celebrates the harvest with tastings, music, and traditional performances.
November brings the International Film Festival of Marrakech, attracting filmmakers and movie lovers from all over. Screenings and events pop up around the city, adding a modern twist to your visit.
Markets and food stalls change with the season. You’ll see fresh olives, citrus fruits, and dates everywhere. Eating at a riad or local restaurant often means dishes made with these autumn ingredients.
Recommended Activities for Autumn
With the comfortable weather, autumn is a great time for camel rides in the nearby desert. The cooler evenings let you enjoy longer treks without worrying about the heat.
Exploring the Atlas Mountains is another highlight. You can join guided hikes, visit Berber villages, or just take in the views—there’s usually less haze than in summer.
Inside Marrakech, autumn is perfect for slow strolls through the Medina, checking out historical sites like the Bahia Palace, or relaxing in a hammam. The mix of mild weather and cultural events gives you tons of options to enjoy the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Winter in Marrakech: December to February
Winter in Marrakech brings mild daytime warmth, crisp evenings, and fewer crowds. You can check out the city’s landmarks in comfort, enjoy seasonal cultural experiences, and reach the snow-covered Atlas Mountains easily for outdoor adventures.
Mild Days and Cool Nights
From December through February, daytime temperatures usually hover around 16–20°C (60–68°F). It’s a great time to walk the medina, visit gardens, or tour palaces without the summer heat weighing you down.
Evenings cool off quickly, with lows dropping to 5–8°C (41–46°F). You’ll want a light jacket or sweater after sunset. Many riads and hotels light fireplaces during winter, which feels pretty cozy after a day outside.
Rain can happen, especially in January, but showers are short. Most days bring clear skies, so you get great views for photos or rooftop sunsets over the city and the distant mountains.
Best Winter Activities
Winter’s honestly a great time for sightseeing—you won’t have to deal with the brutal summer heat. You can wander around Jemaa el-Fnaa, check out the souks, and pop into historical spots like the Bahia Palace or Saadian Tombs without breaking a sweat.
If you love food, winter just makes Moroccan dishes like tagine and harira taste even better. Those warm, hearty meals really hit the spot on chilly nights.
Many hotels offer hammams, so you can unwind in a steamy room and try out traditional treatments. It’s a classic way to relax after a day out.
Shopping in the souks feels easier in winter. The crowds thin out, so bargaining with vendors isn’t as rushed, and you get more time to browse carpets, lanterns, and ceramics.
Day Trips to the Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains sit just a short drive from Marrakech, and in winter, they look especially dramatic. Snow usually covers the peaks, which really stands out against the palm-filled plains around the city.
You can head to villages like Imlil. Trails there lead right into the High Atlas, and even a short hike gives you a stunning view of snow-capped Mount Toubkal, which is North Africa’s highest peak.
For winter sports, give Oukaïmeden a try—it’s one of Africa’s rare ski resorts. Sure, the facilities are basic, but skiing here is something you won’t forget.
If you’d rather take it easy, you can book a guided mule ride or sip tea with Berber families. It’s a nice way to soak up the culture and scenery at the same time.
Best Time for Specific Experiences
Weather in Marrakech really shapes how you experience the Red City and its surroundings. Desert trips, mountain hikes, and local gatherings all depend on the season’s temperatures and conditions.
Choosing the right time? That can make a big difference for comfort and safety.
Camel Rides and Desert Excursions
Camel rides and overnight desert tours feel best in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Daytime highs stay warm but not unbearable, usually around 25–30°C (77–86°F).
Clear skies make sunsets and stargazing far more enjoyable.
In summer, desert temperatures can soar past 40°C (104°F). If you go then, plan rides at sunrise or sunset and skip the midday heat.
The Agafay Desert sits closer to Marrakech and offers cooler evenings, so it’s a practical option.
Winter brings crisp days and very cold nights. You’ll want warm layers if you plan to camp in the desert.
The experience feels quieter and less crowded, but the sharp temperature drop after sunset can really catch travelers off guard.
Tip: Book camel rides early in the day or late afternoon to dodge the harshest sun.
Atlas Mountains Adventures
The Atlas Mountains offer a break from Marrakech’s heat. Spring and autumn are the best times for hiking, with daytime highs around 20–25°C (68–77°F).
Trails are clear, wildflowers bloom in spring, and the views are perfect for photography.
In summer, the mountains stay 10–15 degrees cooler than Marrakech, even when the city hits 40°C. That makes it a good season for day trips and village visits.
Winter turns the High Atlas into a snowy wonderland. You can ski in places like Oukaïmeden, but some trails might be blocked by snow.
Lower valleys usually stay open for short hikes and cultural visits.
Note: Weather can change fast at higher altitudes, so bring layers and sturdy shoes.
Cultural Festivals and Events
Marrakech hosts cultural events all year, but spring and autumn are the most comfortable months to enjoy them. The mild weather lets you spend more time outdoors without feeling worn out.
Spring often brings music and art festivals, plus lively food markets. The nice weather makes it easy to catch performances all over the city.
In autumn, photography tours and cooking classes are popular. The golden light and moderate temperatures create ideal conditions, and you’ll usually find fewer crowds than in spring.
Winter feels quieter but still has local celebrations and New Year gatherings. Evenings get cold, so plan for indoor venues or heated riads if you’re heading out.
Key advice: Always check festival dates ahead of time—they can shift a bit each year.
Travel Tips for Weather in Marrakech
Marrakech weather swings a lot from season to season. Hot summers, mild springs and autumns, and chilly winter nights mean you need to prep for changes.
Getting ready for the weather keeps you comfortable and lets you enjoy the city’s outdoor spots without any hassle.
Packing Recommendations
Pack clothes that match the season. In spring and autumn, lightweight layers work best. Days are warm, but evenings can cool off quickly.
A light jacket or sweater comes in handy for rooftop dinners or desert trips.
During summer, expect serious heat. Loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen help you stay cooler.
A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are must-haves.
In winter, days stay pleasant, but nights drop fast. Bring a warm jacket, scarf, and closed shoes.
Many riads and hotels don’t have much heating, so extra layers help indoors too.
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes for the medina’s uneven streets. A small umbrella is rarely needed, since rain is low, but a reusable water bottle is always smart to have.
Dealing with Sandstorms and Sun Exposure
Marrakech sits near the Sahara, so you might run into dust or sand-laden winds, especially in late spring. These storms don’t last long but can bother your eyes and lungs.
Carrying a lightweight scarf or face covering can help protect you during sudden gusts.
The sun is intense all year. UV levels stay high, even in winter, so daily sunscreen is a must.
Pick SPF 30 or higher and reapply if you’re outside for hours. Sunglasses with UV protection are necessary too.
If you’re sightseeing, plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harshest sun between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.
For desert trips, pack lip balm with SPF and moisturizers to fight off the dry air.
Adapting to Local Weather Patterns
Marrakech weather has a pretty clear rhythm. Summers hit with very high temperatures, often soaring above 40°C (104°F).
Locals usually rest during midday, then come back to life in the evening. Honestly, you’ll want to do the same if you hope to dodge that intense heat.
Spring and autumn feel comfortable, but sudden temperature drops at night might catch you off guard. If you’re planning a late night, just toss a light jacket in your bag.
Winters stay mild but variable. Some days feel sunny and close to 20°C (68°F), but nights can dip down near freezing.
Traditional riads usually don’t have much heating, so brace yourself for some chilly indoor moments.
Rain doesn’t show up often, but if it does, it’s probably between November and February. Showers pass quickly, but those old streets can get slippery in a hurry.
If you’re visiting then, waterproof or quick-dry shoes will make your life easier.