Chefchaouen sits in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco at 600 metres (1,970 feet) above sea level. This elevation, combined with its Mediterranean-influenced climate, produces mild summers and cool winters quite different from the sweltering Moroccan cities of Marrakech or Fez. Summer daytime highs rarely exceed 33°C (91°F), and nights drop to a comfortable 18°C (64°F). Winters are chilly, with January highs averaging 14°C (57°F) and overnight lows dipping to 5°C (41°F). Rain concentrates between November and March, and snow occasionally dusts the surrounding peaks in January and February. The monthly breakdown below uses actual climate averages from the Chefchaouen province station.
Chefchaouen Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
| Month | Avg High (°C/°F) | Avg Low (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Sunshine (hours/day) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14 / 57 | 5 / 41 | 102 | 9 | 5 |
| February | 15 / 59 | 6 / 43 | 92 | 8 | 6 |
| March | 18 / 64 | 8 / 46 | 78 | 8 | 7 |
| April | 20 / 68 | 9 / 48 | 62 | 7 | 8 |
| May | 24 / 75 | 13 / 55 | 38 | 5 | 9 |
| June | 29 / 84 | 16 / 61 | 13 | 2 | 11 |
| July | 33 / 91 | 18 / 64 | 2 | 1 | 11 |
| August | 33 / 91 | 19 / 66 | 4 | 1 | 10 |
| September | 29 / 84 | 16 / 61 | 20 | 3 | 8 |
| October | 23 / 73 | 13 / 55 | 66 | 6 | 7 |
| November | 18 / 64 | 9 / 48 | 108 | 9 | 6 |
| December | 15 / 59 | 6 / 43 | 115 | 10 | 5 |
Chefchaouen Weather by Month: Winter (December to February)
Winter is the wettest and coldest season in Chefchaouen. December receives 115mm of rain across 10 days, the highest monthly total of the year. January temperatures average 5 to 14°C (41 to 57°F). February brings slightly warmer days at 15°C (59°F) and hosts the annual Almond Blossom Festival when the surrounding valleys turn pink and white. Snow isn’t common in the medina itself, but the peaks of the Rif Mountains above 1,500 metres get snow cover several times each winter. If you visit in winter, pack a warm jacket, waterproof shoes for the medina’s cobbled lanes, and expect some restaurants and rooftop terraces to close during rainy spells.
Chefchaouen Weather by Month: Spring (March to May)
Spring is the most popular season for visiting Chefchaouen, and for good reason. March starts with 78mm of rain and daytime highs of 18°C (64°F). By April rainfall drops to 62mm and temperatures climb to 20°C (68°F). May is the sweet spot: only 38mm of rain across 5 days, daytime highs of 24°C (75°F), and 9 hours of daily sunshine. The surrounding Rif Mountains are green and the wildflowers bloom through mid-May. Book accommodation 2 to 3 months ahead for April and May visits, especially if you want a room in a traditional riad with a rooftop view. Read about the best time to visit Chefchaouen for seasonal advice.
Chefchaouen Weather by Month: Summer (June to August)
Summer in Chefchaouen is warm but not oppressive thanks to the elevation. July and August both peak at 33°C (91°F) with overnight lows around 18 to 19°C (64 to 66°F) , comfortable enough for sleeping without air conditioning in most riads. Rainfall is nearly zero: July averages just 2mm and August 4mm. June is milder at 29°C (84°F) with 11 hours of daily sunshine. This is peak tourist season, especially August when many Moroccan families from Casablanca and Rabat travel north to escape the coastal humidity. The medina can feel crowded in the midday hours. Plan your photography for early morning (before 9am) or late afternoon to avoid both crowds and harsh shadows on the blue walls. See our guide to things to do in Chefchaouen for more attractions.
Chefchaouen Weather by Month: Autumn (September to November)
September still feels like summer at 29°C (84°F) with only 20mm of rain across 3 days. October brings a noticeable shift: daytime highs drop to 23°C (73°F) and rainfall jumps to 66mm. November is the real transition month with 108mm of rain over 9 days and temperatures ranging from 9 to 18°C (48 to 64°F). The autumn light on the blue walls is spectacular, especially in late October when the afternoon sun hits the medina at a low angle. This is a strong alternative to spring, with fewer tourists and pleasant daytime temperatures. Bring a light jacket for evenings starting in late October. Browse our Chefchaouen events and festivals calendar for dates.
Chefchaouen Weather by Month: Quick Questions
What is the hottest month in Chefchaouen? July and August tie for the hottest, both averaging 33°C (91°F) for daytime highs. Because of the mountain elevation, temperatures drop quickly after sunset to around 18°C (64°F). Our Chefchaouen neighborhoods guide breaks down each area.
What is the coldest month in Chefchaouen? January is the coldest, with average lows of 5°C (41°F) and highs of 14°C (57°F). Frost is rare in the medina but possible on the highest surrounding peaks. Find where to stay in Chefchaouen recommendations in our accommodation guide.
What is the rainiest month in Chefchaouen? December receives 115mm of rain across 10 days, closely followed by November at 108mm and January at 102mm. The rainy season runs November through March. Our Chefchaouen travel tips article covers practical information.
Does it snow in Chefchaouen? Snow occasionally falls on the medina once or twice per winter but rarely sticks. The Rif Mountain peaks above 1,500 metres get reliable snow cover from December through February. Local tour operators run day trips to see the snow at higher elevations. For more context, see our Chefchaouen travel guide.
