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Marrakech, a city of 928,000 at the foot of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, is the country’s cultural capital and most visited tourist destination. Founded around 1070, the ‘Red City’ is named for the rose-colored pisé (rammed earth) walls enclosing its 600-hectare medina. Within those 19km of walls lies one of the world’s most intense urban experiences: a labyrinth of souks, the pulsing Jemaa el-Fna square, and hundreds of riads hidden behind unmarked doors.
Marrakech Climate Overview
Marrakech has a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen BSh) with long, extremely hot summers and mild winters. The city receives just 260mm of rain annually, concentrated from November through March. This is one of the driest major tourist cities. Annual sunshine totals 3,290 hours, among the highest of any city in the world.
Summers are punishing: July and August average 37°C (99°F) with days above 45°C (113°F) not uncommon. The dry heat (37-39% humidity) makes shade somewhat effective, but midday outdoor activity from June through August is unsafe. Winters are mild during the day (18-20°C/64-68°F) but cold at night (6-8°C/43-46°F) with a 12-14°C diurnal range. The Atlas Mountains visible from the city are snow-capped from November through April.
Marrakech Weather by Season
Winter (December-February): Highs 18-20°C (64-68°F), lows 6-8°C (43-46°F). 101mm total rain. Cold nights require warm clothing; many riads lack heating. Spring (March-May): Highs climb from 23°C to 29°C (73-84°F). Rain decreases (38mm to 16mm). April is ideal. Summer (June-August): Highs 33-37°C (91-99°F), extremes above 45°C (113°F).
Near-zero rain (1-5mm). Low season. Autumn (September-November): Highs drop from 33°C to 22°C (91-72°F). October and November are the best months. The Marrakech weather by month guide has complete monthly data.
Planning Your Marrakech Trip
Plan 3-4 full days. Day 1: Medersa Ben Youssef, souks, and Jemaa el-Fna from a rooftop cafe at sunset. Day 2: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the Mellah (Jewish Quarter). Day 3: Majorelle Garden and YSL Museum in Gueliz. Day 4: Day trip to the Atlas Mountains (Ourika Valley or Imlil, 60-90 minutes by car).
The best time to visit Marrakech is October-November and March-April. Book riads 2-3 months ahead for these periods. Avoid June-August unless you plan to spend midday by a pool. The things to do in Marrakech guide has full attraction details with tickets and hours.
Marrakech Travel Resources
- Marrakech Weather by Month – Monthly temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and sunshine data
- Best Time to Visit Marrakech – Weather, prices, and crowds by season
- Things to Do in Marrakech – Attractions with hours, ticket prices, and tips
- Marrakech Events and Festivals – From Film Festival to Ramadan and Oasis Festival
- Marrakech Neighborhoods – Medina, Gueliz, Hivernage, and Palmeraie guide
- Where to Stay in Marrakech – Riads and hotels by budget with specific names
- Marrakech Travel Tips and FAQ – Airport, visas, bargaining, safety, and practical advice
