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Is a visit to Morocco’s famous Marrakech city on your to-do list? Marrakech is like no other city and has its unique vibe. And it also happens to be one of my favorite places (though I wish I’d have spent more than 4 nights there)!
It’s easy to get lost in the maze of attractions, people, and intriguing cultures that fill the city’s busy streets. It should be no surprise that tourists consider Marrakech a top destination, given the city’s lively street markets, delicious cuisine, and hospitable residents.
Whether you wish to have a crowd-free vacation, save money on flights and lodging, or experience the best weather possible, we’ll show you when to go to this gem of a city. Let us be your guide!
Why You Should Visit Marrakech
Marrakech is a place where the modern and the traditional naturally blend. The major tourist attraction within Medina’s towering red walls is simply taking in the ambiance.
You’ll see snake charmers and suave store salespeople trying to compete for your attention amidst a dazzling bustle. The city’s street markets are the best place to go shopping in Morocco. Here you’ll find a wide variety of handicrafts.
Furthermore, Marrakech is home to Morocco’s most popular historical structures featuring picturesque decorations.
The city also serves as the entry point into the High Atlas region, the country’s most popular destination for outdoor activities such as climbing, mountain biking, trekking, and more. You can take advantage of the numerous Marrakech day tours to get close to the mountain.
Overall Best Time to Visit Marrakech
Le Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech, Morocco – November 14, 2017: Amazing tropical garden in Marrakech, Morocco/Balate Dorin/Shutterstock
The best time to visit Marrakech is spring (March through May) and fall (September through November). Springtime is colorful and bursting with vivid colors.
The weather is perfect, with favorable temperatures and flowers blooming. March, April, and May offer pleasant weather for sightseeing, and it’s warm enough to sunbathe by the pool.
Whereas Marrakech doesn’t receive heavy rainfalls, March is the wettest month. But don’t let that discourage you from visiting in March. The average monthly rainfall is about one to two inches, even during the wet season.
Smart travelers who understand that summer’s temperatures might get quite unbearable may prefer visiting in the spring. September to November features a combination of warm and chilly temperatures.
Because the fall season doesn’t start early in Marrakech, you shouldn’t anticipate cooler weather till the end of September. Prickly pears are in plenty in September.
If you enjoy eating exotic fruits, vendors have them all over. October is by far Marrakech’s most pleasant month in terms of weather. The fall season officially begins, marking a break from the heat and dust while bringing fresh dates (one of my favorite fruits) to the street markets.
The skies are usually clear, so you can go on excursions and relax on a hotel’s rooftop. November is safe for desert traveling, and the city fills with tourists.
Cheapest Time to Visit Marrakech
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The cheapest time to visit Marrakech is from November to February. Marrakech’s skies are usually clear during this time, but temperatures may drop drastically once the sun sets.
Outside the holiday season, lodgings give fair rates, and popular attractions like the Jardin Majorelle have fewer queues. Marrakech’s average temperature in January is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the coldest month of the year.
Furthermore, it’s among the months that receive the most rainfall. Evenings might get a bit chillier than anticipated, so bring warm clothing. New Year is a peak time for hotel rates, but they return to off-season levels by the end month.
Marrakech receives low tourist turnouts in February. It’s an excellent time to go on excursions in the surrounding desert or to the adjacent Atlas Mountains for skiing.
The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is held in February at one of Marrakech’s most opulent riads, La Mamounia, giving visitors a glimpse into the city’s diverse heritage.
Winter accommodation rates skyrocket in December since most Europeans chose to spend the Christmas holidays in Morocco rather than in their snowy and frigid home nations.
But it’s possible to land a fair deal on your accommodation if you make your reservation in advance. To pay less on your flight, use alternative routes, try out budget airlines, or book the flight before.
Least Busy Time to Visit Marrakech
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The least busy time to visit Marrakech is January and February. The desert is excellent for day trips in January and February because precipitation is a bit low.
It may rain more than usual in Marrakech, but if you bring an umbrella with you, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting around. The average daytime temperature is roughly 68 degrees Fahrenheit, while the nighttime temperature can drop to freezing.
There are fewer tourists during this time, although most attractions and hotels remain open. The markets in Marrakech are much more manageable and less busy now, making it an excellent time to enjoy your holiday shopping.
The north coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate with moderate, rainy winters (about 53 degrees Fahrenheit on average). The Sahara has the harshest conditions during this time, with hot, dry days and freezing nights.
The Atlas Mountains have dense snow. So, if you’re an ardent hiker, you can enjoy some snow-trekking experience. You can browse the airline’s website in incognito mode to get cheaper flights. Consider signing up on the airline mail list to know when they offer discounts.
Worst Time to Visit Marrakech
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The worst time to visit Marrakech is the summer months, typically from June through August. They’re not the greatest months to make your trip if you can’t stand high temperatures.
Temperatures average at about 68 degrees, but they can go up to around 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures begin to rise in June, but July and August get the least comfortable. Since the weather is so harsh in the summer, you might expect fewer tourists around.
The heat doesn’t discourage most daring travelers from visiting Marrakech because it coincides with the European holiday season. Expect to encounter large tourist crowds and expensive hotel rates.
If you insist on visiting Marrakech during this time of the year, remember to pack some light, breathable fabrics so you won’t be sweating the whole time profusely. You should set your alarm early to take advantage of the cooler morning hours.
After mid-day, it’s advisable to relax by the hotel pool while planning your lunchtime visit to some of Marrakech’s finest eateries and indulging in authentic Moroccan cuisine. When the sun goes down, you may stroll around Jamaa el Fna and enjoy a cup of mint tea while you’re there.
Things to Consider
When planning your visit to Marrakech, you should consider a few things to ensure you create a memorable experience.
They include:
- Safety. Generally, Marrakech is a safe city to visit. However, it’s still important to remain vigilant of your surroundings, particularly at night. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry as it may attract unwanted attention.
- Language. Most people here speak Moroccan Arabic and French. Most hotels and restaurants will have English staff, but it’s a good idea to learn French before visiting.
- Transportation. The most popular way to get around Marrakech is by taxi or by public bus. Taxis are usually affordable and readily available, but ensure you agree on the fare before getting in.
- Accommodation. Marrakech is home to many lodging options. You can choose from modern hotels, budget hostels, or riads. Staying in a riad is a great way to experience the city’s culture like a local.
- Money. It may be challenging to locate an operational ATM in Marrakech, but there are several in Medina. Consider traveling with enough cash. Split your money in half and change some into local currency for paying transport.
- Culture. Wearing revealing clothing is frowned upon because Morocco is a Muslim state. You don’t have to cover your head as a tourist, but it’s still polite to dress modestly to avoid attracting attention.
- Food. You’d have to write a book to cover all the incredible dining places in Marrakech. You’ll come across street stalls, affordable cafes, and upscale restaurants.
- Be ready. Marrakech is a beautiful city, but more than anything else, it’s a bustling place full of noise. You’ll also see many beggars, donkeys, and people carrying food. It’s not the paradise that one might imagine it to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Here are the most popular questions travelers ask before visiting Marrakech:
How many days in Marrakech is enough?
Since Marrakech is Morocco’s fourth biggest city and among the state’s popular tourist destinations, you’ll have to spend at least 2-3 days there. That’s enough time to see the major attractions and explore the streets of Medina. But I'd suggest taking at least 5-6 days, in order to see Fez as well.
What money do I need in Marrakech?
Morocco uses the dirham as its official currency. The dirham is a closed currency, meaning the only way to acquire it is to travel to Morocco and make an exchange physically.
Can you drink alcohol in Marrakech?
Restaurants, pubs, and permitted tourist areas serve alcohol. Nevertheless, alcohol consumption in the street or anywhere else is illegal and can result in apprehension.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
Yes, Marrakech is a safe tourist destination. But as you would in any other new place, maintain vigilance and take safety precautions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items, and don’t walk alone at night. Ensure to check in with your home country’s travel advisories beforehand.
Do I need a visa for Morocco?
You’ll need to present a valid passport with at least one blank page. A visa isn’t necessary for stays that are less than ninety days.
What can you not wear in Marrakech?
Although there is no hard and fast rule on what visitors should wear, you should avoid shorts or other revealing clothes to show respect for the local culture. Whereas you’ll come across tourists wearing more revealing clothes, it is advisable to dress well in Marrakech.
What area of Marrakech is best to stay in?
Medina is the ideal place to stay in Marrakech for tourists, particularly first-timers. The neighborhood offers easy access to many of the city’s iconic sights, including the 19th-century Bahia Palace. In addition, Medina is safe to stay in, especially for families with kids.
So, When Should You Visit Marrakech?
The best time to visit Marrakech is in the fall or spring when the temperatures are comfortable. Winter is a great time to enjoy the city’s attractions with fewer people and mild temperatures.
If you can, try not to visit the city in the summer since the heat will render sightseeing a terrible ordeal. Marrakech is one of Morocco’s stunning cities that draws tourists from all over the world.
With its vibrant street markets and stunning architecture, it’s no surprise that people come from far to get a taste of Moroccan culture. But don’t let them have all the fun — book your trip to Marrakech today!