Advice about the climate and tourism.
Marrakech is an all year round destination. It has a high desert climate, so it has pleasant weather most of the time.
During the summer months, temperatures can reach a staggering 45°C or higher, which a lot of visitors find unbearably hot. The winter months can be moderately warm and sunny, feeling chillier in the evenings.
The best time to go is during the spring, from March till May or in autumn, from September till November. Springtime sees warm, sunny weather, and you can still dine on the rooftops in the evening. However, I would recommend taking a lightweight jacket or jumper to throw on because the temperature can drop after sunset.
March is the wettest month experiencing 12mm of rain over a day and the occasional storm. Be prepared by carrying an umbrella and wearing sensible footwear.
June is the driest month with 1mm of rainfall over one day, but temperatures in June and July do soar, and it can become exceedingly hot. This makes excursions and sightseeing activities more uncomfortable if you’re not used to walking around in that kind of heat.
Suncream is essential whichever time of year you decide to visit because you can not underestimate the power of the hot Moroccan sun. Carrying bottled water with you is important too so that you don’t become dehydrated.
If you prefer going when there are fewer tourists, I would suggest January to February. The climate is still warm and sunny, with average highs of 19°C and lows of 6°C in the evening. This would be an ideal time to visit if you’re put off by huge crowds of tourists and long queues at popular sightseeing destinations.
Another thing to consider is that Ramadan takes place between February and April, so some stores and restaurants may be closed. Many do stay open, but the vibe can feel different due to the locals fasting throughout the day.
I choose to visit in March, late September, or early October.
In springtime, the Jacaranda trees along the main roads in Gueliz look really beautiful, and the air is really fragrant at this time of year. March can be quite hot, and heavy thunderstorms are also frequent. The sky can look very dramatic and holds its own kind of beauty just before a storm breaks over the city.
Springtime can still be very busy with tourists, and the souks are bustling with life. For me, that is part of the fun, but for some people, the crowds can be too much.
September can be humid. I found it challenging to walk around the palaces and stand in long queues between 3.00pm and 7.00pm, when it becomes particularly warm and sticky, so try to get most of your sightseeing done in the early morning. Afternoons can be a good time to relax by the pool or take a nap until the temperature cools down.
If you do decide to visit during the summer months, here are a few suggestions to help you cope with the heat.
Plan to visit tourist attractions in the morning as soon as they open. If you pre book, you will avoid waiting in long queues in the heat, and there will be fewer people around.
Pace yourself. You don’t have to rush around. Many places stay open quite late in the evening. Alternate between sightseeing and finding places in the shade to have a long rest with a cool drink to avoid too much sun exposure. There are plenty of beautiful spots with banana trees and beautiful tall palms to relax beneath.
Wear natural fibres like cotton or linen clothing. They are breathable and perfect for wearing in hot weather. Choose loose clothing that covers your arms and shoulders. They allow the air to circulate and help to evaporate sweat, keeping you cooler.
Remember to stay hydrated. Carry bottled water at all times to keep yourself from dehydrating.There are plenty of little kiosks dotted around the medina selling reasonably priced water. Check the seals before purchasing for peace of mind.
Plan to do more during the evening when it’s cooler. Some of the tours begin later in the day, and trips to Agafay desert begin just before sunset, and it’s a wonderful experience at this time of evening. The square comes alive at dusk, so most of the souks are still trading until late.
Wear high factor sunblock and keep your head covered. The sun can be pretty fierce, even as early as March.
Visit the water slides of Oasiria. It’s a fun activity and the perfect way to stay cool. Visiting the Sahara desert will be blisteringly hot in summertime. Consider going in the cooler months when days are still warm but not unbearable, but remember, evenings get cold in the desert.
Marrakech is a wonderful city all year round. If you follow these simple tips, you should have an enjoyable visit whichever time of year you decide to travel. It’s about carefully planning your trip.
Consider what it is you want from your experience. Are you put off by crowds of tourists all crammed into the souks at the same time as you? Can you handle the extreme heat, or would you prefer cooler temperatures in December or January?
Whichever time you decide to travel to Marrakech, the locals are always smiling and friendly. There’s always lots do and see, including a day trip to Essaouira on the coast, visiting Ouzoud to see the second largest waterfall in Africa and many other exciting places.
The Sound Of The Souks 