Marrakech is a vibrant and bustling city, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively souks.
As a local who has lived in Morocco my entire life, I bring firsthand experience of the best and worst times to visit Marrakech.
However, like any destination, there are certain times of year that may not be ideal for visiting.
In this article, we'll explore the worst time to visit Marrakech so you can plan your trip accordingly and make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
Marrakech Summer Alert: Why Locals Escape the Medina in July & August
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| If you love being 'grilled' like chicken on charcoal! Marrakech in summer is your perfect destination! |
If you plan to explore the souks, relax in the medina riads, or take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, July and August are not ideal.
These two months are the hottest of the year, and if you're not someone who loves scorching sun, this might not be the most comfortable experience.
During the day, temperatures easily soar above 40°C (104°F), and sometimes even hit 45°C (113°F) during heatwaves.
And the worst part? Even at night, temperatures stay around 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F), meaning it never really cools down unless you're in a well-air-conditioned place or near a pool.
Imagine trying to stroll through the old city, getting lost in the souks, or visiting outdoor spots like Jardin Majorelle or the Bahia Palace under this kind of heat.
Chances are, you'll be looking for shade, drinking water every ten minutes, and hoping to find a café with a fan or air conditioning.
Even the best rooftop restaurants in Marrakech are deserted during the day.
While some people do visit Marrakech in these months due to holiday schedules or school breaks, if you have the flexibility to choose, it's better to avoid these two months.
Pro Tip: If summer is your only option, look for riads in Marrakech with pools or shaded courtyards. Some budget-friendly options offer great value despite the season.
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Christmas in Marrakech: Magical or Miserable? (Honest Pros & Cons)
If you're someone who enjoys peace while traveling, I have to warn you about the peak tourist seasons, especially during Christmas (December) and Spring Break (March/April).
During these times, Marrakech transforms into a magnet for tourists from all over the world, especially from Europe.
Expect crowds, especially in popular places like Jemaa el-Fna or the Majorelle Garden.
Jemaa el-Fna Square during these times is so packed, it feels like you're walking through a festival.
Many family-friendly riads in Marrakech are fully booked weeks in advance.
Prices for both flights and accommodation soar.
On top of the crowds, prices also ris e significantly—whether it's accommodation or activities.
You might end up paying double the price for the same service compared to a month like October or February.
Pro Tip: Book well in advance and choose less touristy areas to stay, like Sidi Ghanem or Bab Doukkala, to avoid inflated prices.
Of course, the city is beautiful, lit up, and full of festive energy, so if you enjoy liveliness, crowds, and events, this might be the perfect time for you.
But if you're looking for a quieter trip with more affordable prices and a "local" experience, these peak seasons might not be ideal.
Ramadan in Marrakech: A Cultural Deep Dive (Is It Right for You?)
Visiting Marrakech during Ramadan can be a spiritually enriching and cultural experience, but let me be honest—it might not suit everyone.
During Ramadan, the rhythm of life in the city changes. People fast from dawn to sunset, which means many restaurants and cafes are closed or only open after the afternoon.
You might struggle to find places to eat lunch in Marrakech during Ramadan, especially around the medina.
Pro Tip: If you don’t mind late breakfasts and festive dinners, you can still enjoy the stay—especially in riads offering private meals or accommodation with kitchenettes.
Even some tourist activities like tours or workshops may be affected or have adjusted schedules.
On the flip side, the evenings are completely different! After the Iftar prayer, the city comes alive: cafés fill up, markets reopen, and the scent of food fills the air.
You can experience "harira" soup and "chebakia" in a cozy local setting, seeing a different side of the city that you wouldn't see at any other time.
If you’re into deep cultural experiences and don’t mind fewer restaurant options during the day, Ramadan can be a great time to visit.
However, if you love to stay active throughout the day and plan for lots of tours and activities, this might not be the best choice for you.
Marrakech Winter Truths: Rain, Chill & Why Some Travelers Love It
Marrakech is known for its sunny weather most of the year, but in winter—especially between December and February—the city experiences the highest rainfall of the year.
While the rain doesn’t last long, it can definitely change the way you spend your day if you're not prepared.
Usually, the rain comes suddenly and heavily for short periods, which can make walking through the narrow alleys difficult, especially in the old town.
You might find yourself trapped in muddy streets or struggling to walk around.
Additionally, the nights can get pretty cold—sometimes even dropping to 5°C (41°F).
Budget riads without heating get cold at night—temperatures can dip to 5°C.
If you're staying in a traditional riad, keep in mind that some may not have adequate heating, making it uncomfortable for some visitors.
Some outdoor attractions (gardens, patios, rooftop cafes) lose their charm.
Pro Tip: Opt for modern riads in Gueliz with heating or places with fireplaces in common areas for cozy winter evenings.
However, there’s a bright side: fewer tourists and lower prices. With fewer crowds, you can explore the city in peace and enjoy more local experiences.
If you’re lucky and don’t experience too much rain, your visit could be beautiful and peaceful.
Summary? Winter rains aren’t always a dealbreaker, but it’s important to be prepared with an umbrella, a warm jacket, and a backup plan for rainy days.
Personal Conditions? Maybe Any Time Isn’t Right For You
Sometimes, the reason you’re not having the best experience in Marrakech has more to do with your personal preferences than anything else. Let me explain:
- Not good with heat? Then summer’s not for you, no matter how tempting.
- Love dining out all day long? Ramadan might not be ideal since many places close during the day.
- On a budget? Skip the festive peak. Try searching for cheap places to sleep near the medina in the fall or early January.
- Traveling with kids? Avoid hot and crowded months. Search for family-friendly riads with pools.
- Planning lots of day trips? Avoid rainy months if you plan day trips to the desert or mountains.
Conclusion? Before you book, check your schedule, personality, and preferences.
Ask yourself: Is this the right time for you? Because sometimes, visiting an amazing destination at the wrong time can make it feel a lot less amazing.
Survival Guide: How to Thrive in Marrakech During Tough Seasons
Stuck traveling during less-than-ideal times? Don't worry – here's your smart rescue plan for every challenging season, with real-tested solutions:
1. Beating the Scorching Summer Heat (July-August)
Golden Rule: Flip your schedule upside down:
Explore from 6-10 AM (magical light + cool air).
Hide in AC spots from 11 AM-5 PM (museums, cafés, hammams).
Return to streets after sunset with evening breeze.
Survival Kit:
Handheld fan (sold for 20 MAD in markets).
Refillable water bottle (free refills at cafés).
SPF50+ sunscreen (sunburn ruins trips faster than heat!).
2. Escaping Peak Tourist Crowds (Dec-Mar)
Timing Hacks:
Visit top sights at opening (8 AM) or 2 hours before closing.
Swap touristy restaurants for hidden gems like:
Café des Épices (Rahba Kedima Square, quieter).
Le Jardin Secret (tranquil garden café).
Money-Saving:
Book tours via local platforms (e.g., Viator) instead of hotels (saves 30-40%).
3. Enjoying Ramadan Without Hunger
Daytime Eats Shortlist:
1. Café Clock (serves lunch until 3 PM).
2. Nomad (modern kitchen open all day).
3. Carrefour supermarket (ready-to-eat sections).
Emergency Snacks:
Carry dates+nuts+water (sold at every corner shop).
Try "Tourist Suhoor" at some restaurants (pre-dawn meal for 50 MAD).
4. Turning Chilly Winter into Magic
For Instagrammers:
Shoot during golden fog (10 AM-2 PM).
Capture Jardin Majorelle under morning mist (surreal shots!).
Cozy Alternatives:
Sip mint tea at Café des Épices by the fireplace.
Try a hammam spa day (warmest way to recharge).
| Challenge | Solution | Secret Weapon |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Heat | Early morning exploring | Fan + sunscreen |
| Peak Crowds | Visit at opening/closing | Online bookings |
| Ramadan | Hidden lunch spots | Emergency snack pack |
| Winter Chill | Golden fog photography | Warm socks + camera |
Final Verdict: The Best & Worst Times to Visit Marrakech (Cheat Sheet)
| Season | Challenge | Best For | Pro Hack |
|---|---|---|---|
| July-Aug | Scorching 45°C heat | Pool lovers, night explorers | Book a riad with AC and a pool |
| Dec-Mar | Chilly nights (5°C) | Budget travelers, photographers | Pack layers + stay in Guéliz with heating |
| Ramadan | Limited daytime dining | Culture seekers, foodies | Join the magical post-iftar street feasts |
| Peak Season | Crowded souks, 2x prices | Social butterflies | Reserve riads/restaurants 3+ months early |
Conclusion
Before You Go: Bonus Travel Tips from a Local
- 12 Offbeat Marrakech Experiences Only Locals Know About! – Discover unconventional activities that reveal the real Marrakech.
- 3 Days in Marrakech Under $150: (Without Missing Out!) – Discover how to enjoy Marrakech without overspending.
- 8 Affordable Riads in Marrakech with Stunning Decor (Under $100/Night!) – Find charming accommodations that won't break the bank.
- Moroccan Hammam Explained: Rituals, Benefits & How It Beats Regular Spas! – Experience the traditional Moroccan bathhouse culture.
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