Nestled between the Sahara desert and the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas, Marrakech enjoys a semi-arid climate that gives it unusual weather: more than 300 days of sunshine a year, intense summers and mild winters that often surprise European visitors. Here is our complete guide, written by a team that lives in the medina 365 days a year.
The essentials in 30 seconds
- Best periods: March-May and September-November, the best balance between weather, crowds and prices.
- Tight budgets: January, February and November, few tourists and the lowest prices.
- Summer: July-August, up to 40°C during the day, but a unique nightlife atmosphere.
- Winter: sunny days around 17-18°C, cool evenings.
Contents
- The weather month by month
- Which period suits your profile?
- The chergui, the desert wind
- At Riad Palau, every season is beautiful
- Frequently asked questions
1. Marrakech weather month by month
January, mild and bright
- Temperatures: 8°C at night / 18°C during the day
The coldest month of the year, but nothing like a European winter. Days are sunny and pleasant for sightseeing. Bring a coat for the evenings. Very few tourists: prices are at their lowest.
February, spring begins
- Temperatures: 9°C at night / 20°C during the day
The almond trees are in bloom in the Atlas valleys. The air is still fresh but the days are getting longer. Excellent value for money, a quiet medina.
March, the best period begins
- Temperatures: 11°C at night / 23°C during the day
Spring sets in. The gardens of Marrakech (Majorelle, Menara, Agdal) are at their most beautiful. Ideal weather for cultural visits and excursions. Visitor numbers rise: book ahead.
April, full high season
- Temperatures: 13°C at night / 26°C during the day
One of the best months to visit Marrakech. Pleasant warmth, constantly blue skies, beautiful light. The Dades roses are in bloom in the valley. Very high demand: book several weeks ahead at Riad Palau.
May, hot but still pleasant
- Temperatures: 16°C at night / 31°C during the day
The heat rises but remains bearable. Mornings are cool, ideal for sightseeing. Avoid going out between 12 and 4 pm.
June, summer sets in
- Temperatures: 20°C at night / 38°C during the day
The heat becomes serious. Bring light clothing and high sun protection, and drink regularly. The upside: fewer tourists and lower prices.
Our tip: in the middle of the day, our patio with its pool is the ideal refuge.
The patio and its pool, a cool refuge in summer.
July, the hottest month
- Temperatures: 22°C at night / 40°C during the day
Frequent heatwaves that can exceed 42°C. Not recommended for intensive sightseeing. On the other hand, the nights stay lively: the medina comes back to life after 8 pm and until very late. A unique festive atmosphere.
August, intense heat, lively nights
- Temperatures: 22°C at night / 39°C during the day
Similar to July. Locals live at night. The souks come alive after sunset and the terraces are packed at 10 pm. For travellers used to extreme heat.
September, good weather returns
- Temperatures: 18°C at night / 34°C during the day
The heat gradually eases. From mid-September conditions become excellent again. One of the best months to combine the beach (Essaouira, 2h30 away) and the medina. Demand picks up again.
October, autumn high season
- Temperatures: 14°C at night / 28°C during the day
Along with April, the ideal month. Perfect temperatures, golden light, vegetation still green after the first rains. Perfect for hiking in the Atlas and desert excursions. Book early.
November, mild and calm
- Temperatures: 10°C at night / 22°C during the day
Visitor numbers fall, and so do prices. Mild, pleasant weather. A few rainy days are possible but usually short. An excellent month for an authentic stay without the crowds.
December, mild winter and Christmas in Marrakech
- Temperatures: 7°C at night / 17°C during the day
Marrakech is a very popular Christmas destination for Europeans, and for good reason: sunny, mild days, cool evenings by the fire in the riads, a warm atmosphere. Book very early for the holidays.
2. Which period suits your profile?
- You want to avoid crowds and find the best prices: January, February, November.
- You want the best of Marrakech without compromise: March-April or October.
- You love heat and nightlife: July-August.
- You are travelling with children: April, May, October.
- You are planning hikes in the Atlas: March, April, October, November.
- You want to combine Marrakech and the desert: October, November, March.
Whatever the season, your riad awaits. Moroccan breakfast served on the terrace or in the patio, activity advice adapted to the season. Check availability and book direct, best rate guaranteed.
3. The chergui, the desert wind
A weather phenomenon to know about before your stay: the chergui. This hot, dry wind from the Sahara can occur in any season, but especially in spring and summer. Within a few hours, temperatures can jump by 10°C and the air becomes very dry.
- Duration: usually 24 to 48 hours
No need to worry: it is just Morocco reminding you how close the desert is.
4. At Riad Palau, every season is beautiful
Our riad is designed for every season. In summer, the patio with its pool and the thick rammed-earth walls keep it naturally cool. In winter, the rooms are heated and the riad takes on a particularly warm, intimate atmosphere. In every season, the Moroccan breakfast served on the terrace or in the patio remains a special moment.
The riad's terrace, for breakfast in the sun.
Our tip: whatever time of year you visit, our team will advise you on the best activities, excursions suited to the season and the places of the moment.
Frequently asked questions
Does it rain a lot in Marrakech?
No. Marrakech receives an average of 240 mm of rain a year, less than Paris in two months. Rain is concentrated between November and March, in short showers.
Do you need sun protection even in winter?
Yes. At 31° north latitude, the sun is strong even in January. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended all year round.
Can you swim in the riad's pool?
Our pool is not heated. It is pleasant from June to October. Outside this period it is mainly decorative and not really suitable for swimming.
In short
Marrakech can be visited all year round, but March-May and September-November offer the best balance between weather, crowds and prices. Winter is ideal for tight budgets and travellers avoiding the crowds. Summer offers a unique nightlife atmosphere, as long as you can handle the heat.
Ready to choose your dates? Book your stay direct, best rate guaranteed.
