Key Takeaways
- Year-Round Climate Appeal: Marrakech enjoys diverse climates with hot summers, mild winters, and pleasant spring and autumn, suitable for various activities.
- Best Time to Visit: Ideal visiting months are March to May and September to November, when the weather is comfortably warm and the city less crowded.
- Rainfall Patterns: Minimal rainfall occurs, mostly from November to January, positioning Marrakech as a prime location for those seeking dryer destinations.
- Varied Weather Experiences: From the hot days of July and August to the mild, pleasant days of spring and autumn, Marrakech offers a range of weather conditions throughout the year.
Introduction to Marrakech Climate
Marrakech’s climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. The city’s location in North Africa influences its weather patterns, creating a unique blend of desert and Mediterranean climates. Understanding Marrakech’s climate is crucial for travelers to prepare effectively for their visit.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Winter (December – February)
- Daytime: Mild temperatures.
- Nighttime: Can get cold, often dropping below 5°C (41°F) and sometimes reaching freezing.
- Weather: Sunny periods alternating with cloudy and rainy weather.
- Special Features: Views of snow-capped Atlas Mountains.
Spring (March – mid-June)
- Temperature: Pleasantly warm.
- Rainfall: Rains become rarer.
- Nighttime: Can still be cold in March and April.
- Hot Days: South winds can bring hot days, reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in March and April, and 40°C (104°F) in May.
Summer (Mid-June – Mid-September)
- Weather: Very hot, dry, and sunny.
- Temperature Range: Acceptable highs slightly above 30°C (86°F) with lows dropping to about 15/17°C (59/63°F).
- Extreme Heat: Maximum temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F) for several consecutive days, especially in July and August.
Autumn (Mid-September – November)
- Temperature: Gradually decreases.
- October: Hot days are still possible.
Rainfall Trends
- Annual Precipitation Trends: From 1961 to 2014, there has been variability in annual precipitation levels in Marrakesh [1]
- Monthly Precipitation Averages: The average monthly precipitation in Marrakesh varies throughout the year. March is typically the wettest month with around 50 mm of precipitation, while July is usually the driest with about 3 mm of precipitation. [2]
- Seasonal Variation: Marrakesh experiences dry periods in June, July, August, and September, with March being the wettest month on average. [3]
- Average Annual Precipitation: The average amount of annual precipitation in Marrakesh is approximately 344 mm. [4]
Sunshine Hours
- Annual Sunshine Hours: The number of hours of sunshine varies throughout the year in Marrakesh, ranging from a high of 10.8 hours in July to a low of 7.1 hours in December and January.
- Monthly Variation: June has the longest days with an average daylight duration of 14 hours and 12 minutes, while December has the shortest days with an average daylight duration of 10 hours and 6 minutes.
- Sunniest Month: July is typically the sunniest month in Marrakesh, with an average of 10 hours and 48 minutes of sunshine per day.
- Least Sunny Months: January, November, and December are the least sunny months, with an average of 7 hours and 6 minutes of sunshine per day.
- UV Index: The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 11), while January and December have the lowest UV index (UV index 3).
Humidity Levels
- Average Annual Humidity: The average annual humidity in Marrakesh ranges from 58% to 62.3%. [1]
- Monthly Humidity Range: Humidity levels vary throughout the year, with the highest humidity recorded in December at 87% and the lowest in July at 44%. [2]
- Seasonal Variation: The humidity in Marrakesh is at its lowest in July at 44%, while autumn months like October and November offer cooler temperatures with relatively higher humidity levels.
- Humidity Trends: The average monthly relative humidity ranges from 48% in July to 87% in December, showing significant fluctuations throughout the year.
Planning Your Trip
Looking to take a trip to Morocco and visit Marrakesh? Why not work with one of our Morocco experts, who can help you see some of the big sites like Bahia Palace, Casablanca, and the Atlas Mountains.
Conclusion
Understanding Marrakech’s weather is essential for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s rich culture and vibrant atmosphere. By exploring the climate, seasonal patterns, and essential weather factors, travelers can plan their trip effectively and make the most of their Marrakech experience.
Whether you are seeking sunny days for sightseeing or cooler temperatures for outdoor adventures, Marrakech offers a climate that caters to various preferences throughout the year.
