Winter in Marrakech

Winter is the season we – secretly – most love in Marrakech. Here are all the reasons why. 

 

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT WINTER IN MARRAKECH?

Picture yourself in late January eating lunch underneath a palm tree with a bright blue sky overhead and golden sunshine. In the distance, you can see the snowcapped Atlas Mountains. That’s just a typical winter day here in Marrakech and while spring and autumn are the peak times to visit, our top tip is to come in January or February. You’re almost certainly guaranteed golden sunshine and a Vitamin D boost. 

Yes. We get the occasional cloudy day or some rain but when so many other places are dark and cold, Marrakech is mostly soaked with sunshine. The air is pure, the sky azure and the city is quieter than at other times of the year too.

The view from the El Fenn rooftop during winter is particularly magical because it’s the best time of year for dramatic sunrises and sunsets. Make sure to get up to our roof terrace early – or late – to catch them. 

 

 

THE WINTER WEATHER IN MARRAKECH

The sun shines throughout December, January and February and it’s usually around 20-24C. It can sometimes be a little colder and by late February, the temperature can also be near 30C. But generally it’s a pretty perfect time of year for the heat. 

The thing to remember if you’re coming to Marrakech during the winter is that it’s a cold city with a hot sun. That means you can sit outside in the sunshine during the day wearing just a t-shirt, but nights and early mornings can get down to under 10C. El Fenn bedrooms are cosy but you’ll certainly feel the chill if you’re on the rooftop once the sun has set. 

 

 

 

WHAT TO WEAR IN MARRAKECH

It’s all about layers. Most Marrakechis are swathed in heavy coats during the winter but visitors don’t tend to wear them. You will however be moving between the inside and outside which means constant temperature changes. Pack t-shirts and light layers for outside, and heavier items like jumpers, scarves and gilets to throw on when you’re indoors – or in the evenings. And also a raincoat just in case.

The best advice we can give is don’t underestimate how cold it can get. You won’t be wearing a kaftan on a January night and don’t want to spend all week living in the one sweatshirt you brought.  

 

WHAT TO DO IN WINTER IN MARRAKECH

Lunch in the sun

Marrakech is packed with gorgeous places to eat outside. Go to Farasha Farmhouse or the Beldi Country Club for lunch on the terrace. Or head into the medina to places like Nomad, DaDa and L’Mida which all have pretty rooftops.

 

 

Explore the medina

Winter is a quieter season for visitors so it’s the perfect time to shop in the souk in peace. We can organise a guide for you if it’s your first visit or just head off and remember that all roads lead back to Djemaa el Fna so you’ll never get too lost.

 

 

Immerse yourself in nature

Morocco stays green throughout the winter so head off to places like the Majorelle or Anima Garden to see the cacti and aloe vera. If you’re in the medina, the Secret Garden is also great for a coffee. In late winter, jacaranda, mimosa and orange trees also bloom and the city is alive with colour.

 

Hike the Atlas Mountains 

The weather is perfect for hiking in the beautiful Atlas Mountains. We can organise a guide for you and you’ll get a chance to soak up the dizzying views and see some of the villages.

 

 

Ski in North Africa

Oukaimden is a ski resort that’s about 50 miles from Marrakech. There are seven lifts and, while you don’t get the kind of runs you’ll find in top European ski resorts, there’s a certain something about just seeing it all in action. There’s a charming French restaurant called Chez Juju where you can hole up for winter classics and a glass of red wine.

 

 

Go to the beach

It’s certainly warm enough for a t-shirt and shorts on the beach and the waves on the Atlantic Coast are great in winter. Why not combine a trip to El Fenn with a few days in Essaouira? There’s nothing quite like lying on a sun lounger when you know it’s dark, cold and raining back home.

 

 

Visit the 1:54 Art Fair

The  1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is always a highlight of the Marrakshi cultural year as artists, curators, gallerists and experts converge to tap into one of the world’s most dynamic and exciting art scenes. The 2025 edition of 1-54 runs from January 30th – February 2nd during which time all the major galleries will be showcasing work by some of the continent’s brightest talents. And at El Fenn we are celebrating all things art with our Curated Art Weekend.

 

Tempted to stay with us? Check out the curated art weekend here.