Often planning a trip can be overwhelming. With the plethora of options available, even extensive research can look like an exercise in vain. The key lies in knowing exactly what you are looking for, the weather that dominates the region, the festivals or events coming up, the period of season or offseason, the kind of stay, spoken languages, food, culture and a tad bit of history. Marrakech has a lot to offer for all types of travelers; backpackers and tourists alike. A well-planned trip can help a great deal in turning it into an experience of a lifetime.

Best time to visit Marrakech

1. March to May – Best time to visit

The months from March to May bring the lively spring season adding fresh colors to the Red City making it the best time to visit Marrakech. The surrounding valleys sparkle with vibrant blossoms. Most part of the day sees sunshine, making it easier for travelers to explore the city. However, some days of the month see rainfall in some parts.  The Marrakech International Magic Festival and the Madjazz Festival Marrakech are celebrated in the months of March and May respectively. The onset of May also begins the celebration of Ramadan.

2. September to November

Following the close, Marrakech sees drop in the temperatures during the months from September to November. With the drop in temperatures, it welcomes another set of tourists, looking for less crowded places and budget-friendly travel. Music lovers find the Red City all the more attractive during these months for the Oasis Fest and the Sun Festival are celebrated during these months. The city marks its independence day in the month of November.

3. December to February

December to February are the winter months of Morocco and its location shouldn't deceive you. Morocco is often referred to as a cold country with a hot sun. The paradox isn't unreasonable especially because the day and night temperatures stay on either extreme with the days seeing a soar in the temperatures and the nights making the temperatures plummet even lower. Though the temperatures see a fall during the winter months, the cost of stays tends to react differently. Winters too draw tourists from around the world especially during Christmas time and Marrakech Grand Prix in December which keeps the prices of hotels high as usual. Other important events during the winter months are International Film Festival in December, Marrakech International Marathon in January, Marrakech Golf Festival, Dakka Marrakchia Festival, a music festival, and 1-54, a contemporary African Art fair in February.

4. June to August

The months from June to August are the hottest of the year. The city celebrates Ramadan during the month of May extending up to June. Marrakech Popular Art festival and Feast of the throne are celebrated during the months of July. Surprisingly, the rise in the temperature and with the sun becoming unbearable for three hours starting from noon, the rooms' rates skyrocket with the usual pace as the city witnesses a huge number of sightseers and day-visitors.

It can be easily said that the best time to visit Marrakech is from March to May with September to November following closely behind. Summers from June to August, are brutal and should be avoided. Another important consideration while deciding when to visit Marrakech can be a thorough knowledge of its regional and national holidays which go by the lunar calendar. These holidays might affect public transportation, visiting hours at attractions and even room rates. All in all, while the desirable weather during shoulder seasons of March to May is the best time to visit Marrakech, one's choice of reason to visit the 'ochre city' can also act an important factor in deciding when to visit Marrakech.