When to Go

Marrakesh can get surprisingly cold in the winter and after the sun goes down. Although the sun shines almost year-round, the best time to visit is in spring (February to April), when the surrounding hills and valleys are an explosion of colorful flowers, and fall (October and November), when the temperature is comfortable enough to warrant sunbathing. The only exception in that period is during Easter week, which brings crowds. July and August can be unbearably hot, with daytime temperatures regularly over 100°F. Christmas and New Year's is peak season and the city fills to bursting, with hotels and riads booked up months in advance.