March to May — the best window, and everyone knows it
Mild temperatures, orchards in blossom in the Atlas, snow still on the peaks behind. It is the ideal season to combine city, mountains and desert without suffering.
It is also high season: riads fill up and flights cost more. Book early, especially around Easter.
Verified figures
- January
- Roughly 6 to 19°C. Nights close to freezing in some years.
- July and August
- Average highs of 37 to 39°C. Recorded peak: 47°C in August 2021.
- Rainfall
- Around 190 to 250 mm a year depending on the series — a semi-desert climate.
- Altitude of Marrakech
- About 460 metres, which lowers night-time temperatures slightly.
- Difference with the mountains
- Up to 15°C cooler in the Ourika valley than in the city.
- Driest months
- July and August, with 1 to 3 rainy days on average.
Figures checked in August 2026 (Unesco, climate data from the Menara station, public geographic sources). Where sources disagree, we give a range rather than a single number.
June to August — the heat changes everything
In July and August, afternoons regularly pass 40°C. The medina becomes punishing between midday and 5 pm, and day trips lose much of their charm.
If you come in summer, invert the day: outings early, pool or hammam in the afternoon, desert and dinner in the evening. Essaouira, three hours away, stays cool all year thanks to the trade wind — it is where Marrakchis themselves escape.
Book what this article mentions
September to November — our favourite season
The heat drops, the light turns superb, and numbers fall after the school holidays. October and November give the best comfort-to-crowds ratio of the year.
It is also the best period for ballooning: the morning air is stable and wind cancellations are rarer than in spring.
December to February — sun by day, cold at night
Days are sunny and mild, around 18 to 20°C, but nights drop close to freezing. Many riads heat poorly: check that point before booking.
In exchange, the Atlas is under snow, prices fall outside the holidays, and the medina becomes breathable again. For the desert, bring a proper down jacket: nights under canvas are cold.
Frequently asked questions
What is the worst month to come?
August, for the heat. If you have no choice, build your days around the cooler hours and favour the coast.
Does Ramadan change anything?
Day trips and accommodation run normally. Some medina restaurants close during the day, and the evening atmosphere is particularly beautiful. Dates shift each year.
When should I book the balloon flight?
In high season, three to five days ahead: daily flight numbers are limited. In winter availability is better but wind cancellations slightly more frequent.