November in Marrakech: Everything You Need to Know

If you are spending November in Marrakech then this is the perfect guide for you. See, I have been in Morocco since January of 2023 and have been living in Marrakech on and off since I got here.

So, I know all about fall in Marrakech and what you need to know before visiting Marrakech in November. The first thing you need to know about planning a trip at this time of year is that it is NOT peak season.

Therefore, you can expect fewer people in the city and might even be able to score some discounts on hotels and airfare before peak season picks up again in December for Christmas in Marrakech.

The weather will be a bit cooler though so don’t expect to go swimming or anything like that. However, it will be warm enough for you to walk around in a t-shirt during the middle of the day.

TBH, I actually really like the weather in Marrakech in November and think it’s an excellent time to explore the city without the intense crowds or the insane heat of previous months.

However, I’ll dive into all of this and more as I tell you about the best things to do in Marrakech in November, what to wear in Marrakech in November, special events in Marrakech in November, and more.

So, stop stressing and get ready to plan a mega epic Marrakech vacay right now with this rad local guide to the city.

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Is November a Good Time to Visit Marrakech?

Personally, I love visiting Marrakech in November rather than spending Christmas in Morocco.

I love that the weather is warm but not hot like it is in September in Marrakech. So, you can definitely walk around in a T-shirt during the middle of the day without any problems, just like in January in Marrakech.

Just be sure to pack a warm jacket since it will get cooler in the evening and towards the end of the month. I also wouldn’t pack a bathing suit since it’s a bit too cold for swimming at this time of year.

In terms of crowds, there is a bit of a lull in tourist activity between October in Marrakech and December in Marrakech. So, you can enjoy exploring the city without an insane number of people crowding the Medina.

I would still book cheaper riads in Marrakech WELL in advance since many of them have less than ten rooms and fill up VERY quickly.

Additionally, you can score some pretty sweet deals on flights at this time of year, as well as on accommodations.

Truth be told though, flights really aren’t that expensive to Marrakech now that Ryanair has a ton of cheap flights going to Marrakech from Europe.

Overall, November is an excellent time to visit the city. You should be able to enjoy amazing weather as well as minimal crowds while exploring the Medina.

Weather in November in Marrakech

I LOVE the weather in Marrakech in November. Average daily highs are 23°C (73°F0, average daily lows are 11°C (52°F), and the city usually gets around three days of rain throughout the month.

That’s a lot of rain for Marrakech. However, you probably won’t even notice because when it does rain, it doesn’t tend to last that long. If it does rain, just enjoy one of the best coworking spaces in Marrakech.

Just be sure to pack some warm layers since it can get chilly in the evening and in the early morning, especially later on in the season.

Other than that, just enjoy the mild weather. It should be warm enough for you to walk around in a T-shirt in the afternoon.

You’ll also love the long days, when compared with other parts of the world since the sun rises around 7:40 am and sets around 6:40 pm.

Yeah, that’s a solid eleven hours of sunlight per day. So, you should have plenty of time to enjoy all of Marrakech’s main attractions.

November Events in Marrakech

So, there are a few important holidays that you should know about in November in Marrakech. The first is Green March Day on November 6th.

It commemorates a day in 1975 when a mass demonstration was coordinated by the Moroccan government/military to force Spain to hand over the “Spanish Sahara” to Morocco.

Schools and public buildings will be closed but as a tourist, it’ll probably just feel like a normal day. So, I wouldn’t worry too much about it and just enjoy your 3 days in Marrakech itinerary.

The second holiday you should know about is Moroccan Independence Day. It takes place on November 18th and is a national holiday where banks and schools and public buildings will be closed.

TBH there won’t be any major celebrations and it will basically feel like just another day in Morocco. You will see flags on the streets and signs everywhere but there are no huge celebrations.

However, some cool events that you can check out in Marrakech in November are:

• The International Film Festival – This star-studded, international film festival starts the last week of November and ends the first week of December. It’s held at the Palais des Congrès, the Cinéma Le Colisée, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. You can even attend free open-air movie screenings in Jemaa el Fna square every evening.

Best Things to do in Marrakech in November

Not sure what to do in Marrakech in November? Then have a look at my expert list and discover some of the top attractions in Marrakech at this time of year.

1. Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Marrakech

⭐️Rating: 4.9/5.0 (537 Reviews) Price: $200.00 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies Operator: Marrakech Dream Ballooning Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

One of my favorite unusual things to do In Marrakech is to book a hot air balloon tour and fly above the city. Full disclosure, you don’t actually fly above Marrakech but over the surrounding countryside.

So, don’t book a tour and expect to soar about the red buildings of the Medina because none of the balloons are able to fly there.

Anyway, the last time I did this I booked my tour with Marrakech Dream Ballooning. I liked that they got rave reviews and that everyone mentioned how safe they felt during their flight.

Well, I can report that I am so glad I booked my hot air balloon flight above Marrakech with this company (you can read about my full experience here).

My pilot had over 20 years of experience and you could feel his passion for ballooning every time he answered questions.

“Best thing we did in Marrakech! The early start is worth the trip to see the sunrise over the mountains. We took our two children (5 & 8 years) and they loved it. The food is delicious and really fresh. The guides are incredibly welcoming and the pilot made us feel safe throughout. Our driver, Simo, was punctual and navigated the busy streets of the city brilliantly. It was an experience of a lifetime!”

Claire (read more reviews now)

The day I went the sky was a little cloudy which was a bit disappointing. I also wish there were more balloons in the air like t when I went to Cappadocia.

However, I liked that the flight was long and smooth and that everything was included (breakfast, transfers, etc.). So, expect to spend between one hour and 45 minutes in the air and enjoy watching the sunrise as you soar through the air.

All in all, I was happy with my decision to fly with Marrakech Dream Ballooning and would fly with them again if I had the chance.

Local Tip: Dress very warmly because you will depart between 5:00 am and 5:30 am and it will be very cold. The tour is also all-inclusive so you will get breakfast, round-trip transfers from your hotel, and a “flight certificate” as a souvenir.

2. Enjoy a Day Trip to the Agafay Desert

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (358 Reviews) Price: $43.55 per person Duration: 5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: The Concept Tour Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

November is the perfect time to go on a day trip from Marrakech to the Agafay Desert.

The weather is warm but not brutally hot, making November the perfect time to ride camels in Marrakech and quad bikes through this rock-encrusted desert without dying of heat exhaustion.

Just remember that the Agafay Desert is a ROCK desert and not a sand desert. So, don’t expect to be riding camels across giant sand dunes because this is not the Sahara.

Instead, you’ll drive just 45 minutes outside of Marrakech and stop at a local Argan Oil Cooperative before being treated to stunning views of the Atlas Mountains during this Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride and Dinner.

Be sure to bundle up during this Agafay Desert tour since it can get quite cold in the evening.

Otherwise, get ready to learn more about local Berber culture as you sip on Moroccan mint tea and watch the sunset while riding a camel through the desert.

“Unforgettable experience with a magnificent setting to do with family, as a couple it’s cute or even with children without problem. Pick-up from your hotel, a beautiful camel ride of around twenty minutes but it is more than enough to contemplate the magnificent desert with its sunset.Then we had dinner with a good soup, a good tagine with a good quantity and fruit. I really wasn’t expecting a meal like that. The perfect beautiful campfire. Put your shoes closed or sandals closed and a small fleece for the nightfall.”

Paul (read more reviews now)

Once you arrive at a local desert camp, you’ll be treated to a traditional Moroccan dinner, complete with authentic desserts, as you listen to live Berber music and sit around a roaring campfire.

This is one of the coolest things to do in Marrakech at night since you’ll be back at your hotel by 11:00 pm. It’s also way cheaper than spending the night at one of the best desert camps in the Agafay Desert.

3. Enjoy a Tour of the Atlas Mountains

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (3675 Reviews) Price: $47.96 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Tours From Marrakech Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

November is the perfect time to explore the Atlas Mountains since it’s warm during the day but not super cold like it is in the winter.

Additionally, the Atlas Mountains are well-located near Marrakech. So, this is a great place to go if you need a break from the chaos of the city.

Personally, I like this tour right here since you’ll get picked up early from your hotel and be whisked away to the Moulay Brahim Gorges.

Upon arrival, enjoy a camel ride through the area before making your way to the Imlil Valley.

Once in Imlil, explore one of the biggest and highest villages in the region. Afterward, start a two or three-hour hike to Armed as you pass through Ait Mizan, Targa, and Imoula.

“Really enjoyed our day in the High Atlas Mountains. Excellent value for money, excellent guide and great food too! Views were incredible, learnt a lot and we had perfect weather for the walk (in March). Visiting Agafay Desert for a quick camel ride, second breakfast at the co-operative and the waterfall were all a bonus. You even get to drive back via the road used in Mission Impossible. Highly recommend guide Mustafa and driver Abdul.”

Harriet (read more reviews now)

During your hike, stop at Tamatert to admire sweeping views of local irrigation terraces and enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch with mint tea at Ait Souka.

You’ll then make your way down the opposite side of the valley and pass through Taourirt as make your way back to the van.

Overall, this is one of my favorite Atlas Mountain tours since you get to do a lot of hiking and really experience the natural beauty of this incredible place.

4. Check Out Bahia Palace

Undoubtedly one of the most striking buildings in the city, “Bahia” actually translates to “brilliant” in English.

This name is fitting for an 8,000-square-meter palace that is home to breathtaking tilework, exquisite plasterwork, and traditional Moroccan wood carving known as zouak.

Sadly, only a few of the 150+ rooms in the palace are open to the public. But, this epic palace in Marrakech is still worth a visit to see the exquisite craftsmanship in the Petit Riad and the Grand Riad.

However, my favorite part of the palace was the Cour d’Honneur. It’s a charming courtyard outfitted with Italian Carrara marble and amazing fountains that are surrounded by breathtaking tile mosaics.

You’ll have to pay 70 Dirhams ($7.00) to visit but I personally think it’s absolutely worth it. November is also a great time to stop by since the palace won’t be as crowded with people.

Just check the opening times before you visit since they can be a but wonky.

5. Explore the Ruins of Badi Palace

Today, Badi Palace is largely in ruins. However, you should still visit this extraordinary building from the 16th century to learn about its rich history.

See, Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour once adorned this palace with a wealth of gold, turquoise, and crystal. Sadly, the palace was later ransacked and these treasures were taken away to Mekenes by Sultan Moulay Ismail.

For 70 Dirhams ($7.00), you can explore the expansive courtyard featuring four sunken gardens and reflecting pools.

The basement also has a photo exhibition on the history of the Kasbah/Mellah, along with a modest display of slaves and prisoners near the entrance.

Don’t miss the Khayzuran Pavilion if you want to see temporary contemporary art exhibits and the impressive Koutoubia minbar (prayer pulpit).

Local Tip: If you’re short on time and only spending a day in Marrakech, this is one of the places you can skip. I’d really only suggest visiting if you have a bit of extra time to kill.

6. See Ben Youssef Madrasa

I always love visiting Ben Youssef Madrasa since tickets are well-priced and the architecture is stunning. I particularly like the exquisite student dormitories that you can explore on the second floor.

So, even if you’re not interested in historic sites, this place is worth a visit. See, this famous school was established in the 14th century and became the largest school in North Africa.

That’s because it was built to accommodate over 900 students and remains the largest madrasa in the country to this very day.

It features a splendid tilework, woodwork, and ornate fountains. Also be on the lookout for inspiring inscriptions like, “May you exceed your greatest ambitions upon entering my doors”.

Personally, I recommend exploring the courtyards on the lower levels before heading upstairs. You also probably won’t spend more than an hour here since there aren’t many artifacts on display.

Regardless of this fact, I think the Madrasa is still worth visiting since the architecture is gorgeous and I loved exploring all the empty rooms upstairs for just 50 Dirhams ($5.00) per person.

Additionally, November is a perfect time to visit since the school isn’t as crowded and you can take some really good photos of the building.

Afterward, consider visiting the Marrakech Museum or Almoravid Koubba since both attractions are conveniently located nearby.

7. Enjoy the Saadian Tombs

This is a spot I highly recommend visiting early in the morning since the tombs are tucked away inside a pretty compact area.

When I was here the rooms and corridors felt a bit tight, especially when loads of tour groups descend upon the area.

So, for the best photo ops and to fully appreciate the stunning architecture of this gorgeous landmark, stop by as early in the day as you can.

This way you can fully appreciate a building designed for Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi. He wanted a tomb as magnificent as the palaces he lived in.

Thus, he constructed a beautiful mausoleum adorned with exquisite Italian Carrara marble and muqarnas, otherwise known as intricate plasterwork highlighted with gold.

However, the first thing you’ll probably notice upon entering is how well-preserved the building is. That’s because Sultan Moulay Ismail boarded up the entire structure to erase the memory of his predecessor.

Therefore, the entire structure wasn’t actually rediscovered until 1917.

Today, you can explore the enchanting remains of the Chamber of the 12 Pillars, the Garden Tombs, Lalla Massouda’s Tomb, and the Chamber of Three Niches and Prayer Room.

Tickets cost just 60 Dirhams ($6.00) per person, and the Saadian Tombs are usually open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

8. Enjoy Koutoubia Mosque

A visit to Koutoubia Mosque is a must since this is one of the most famous, and important, landmarks in the city.

This 253-foot-tall (77-meter) mosque is the largest in the city and was originally constructed in 1147.

Although non-Muslims are not allowed to go inside, you can still marvel at the splendid minaret, which showcases unique Almohad architecture with intricate geometric designs.

Also surrounding the mosque are palm-lined pathways and gardens, perfect for a leisurely walk or for chilling on a bench by a beautiful fountain.

If you can, visit the ruins of an old prayer hall before heading across the street to Jemaa el-Fna Square.

9. Jemaa el-Fna Square

Jemaa el Fna Square is the beating heart of Marrakech and is a must-visit when you are in the city. If you can, stop by around 5:00 pm when the square comes alive with activity.

You’ll hear pushy vendors selling juice and see an assortment of belly dancers, snake charmers, monkey handlers, and musicians descend upon the square. They all come together to make this an epic place to be once the sun begins to set.

For an exceptional view of the square, make your way to one of the rooftop restaurants in Marrakech that sits around the edge of the square.

I highly recommend L’Adresse Cafe and Restaurant since this is where we usually go because of the fabulous decor and service.

However, most cafes in the area are pretty much the same and will have stunning sunset views. Just be sure to arrive early, as the best seats are snapped up fast.

Local Tip: Many cafes will only let you sit at the best (i.e. tallest) rooftop if you order a full meal. So, don’t be shocked if this happens. This is also a great place to try a food tour in Marrakech.

10. Go Shopping in the Souks

If you’re not sure what to buy in Marrakech then head over to Souk Semmarine for some cool souvenirs from Morocco. This bustling pedestrian street is full of life and is the perfect place to go shopping in Marrakech.

As you wander through the market, you’ll discover colorful carpets, intricately designed brass lanterns, exquisite leather goods, and traditional babouche slippers.

Afterward, make your way through the narrow alleyways to Rahba Kedima, the spice market, and visit Souk Haddadine. It’s an intriguing alley filled with working blacksmiths.

Yes, you’ll probably get lost along the way, but that’s part of the fun. Just make sure you have cash and practice your bargaining skills to secure the best deals.

You should also steer clear of the antiques and jewelry since they are often overpriced and fake.

Other cool Marrakech souks to check out include Souk Cherratine for leather goods, Souk des Teinturiers for dyed wool, Souk des Babouche for traditional slippers, and La Criée Berbère for Berber carpets.

What to Wear in Marrakech in November?

Not sure what to wear in Marrakech in November? If so then LAYERS are your friend. That’s because Marrakech sits in a desert and is known for having cold evenings/mornings and warm afternoons.

This is especially true in November when temperatures vary greatly throughout the day. So, I urge you to pack lots of layers. If you’re visiting earlier in the month then those layers can consist of light linen fabrics and light pants.

However, once the end of the month rolls around then you’ll want to consider adding a warm jacket, hat, and maybe even a scarf/gloves to your Marrakech packing list, depending on where else you want to go in Morocco.

Essentials include long-sleeve shirts, hiking pants/linen pants, fleece jackets, sweatshirts, t-shirts, warm socks, etc. Also, even though it’s November don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat since the sun can still be strong.

A water bottle with a water filter will also help you stay hydrated and prevent you from getting sick from the tap water.

All in all, my biggest tip for packing for Marrakech in November is to pack warmer clothes than you think you’ll need since the evenings can get quite cold, especially if you plan to sit outside.

That being said, also be prepared for comfortable days where you can easily walk around in a T-shirt and pants.

Local Tip: I never suggest jeans since they are bulky and retain odors. However, you are welcome to bring them if you love jeans and HAVE to have them.

Conclusion

Overall, November is a great time to visit Marrakech. The weather is pleasantly warm and perfect for walking around the city.

You also don’t have to worry about hordes of tourists since peak season doesn’t start up again until December.

However, I would still book your riad well in advance since most places only have a few rooms and book up quickly.

But, if you plan your trip well then you might be able to save some money on tours, flights, and hotels.

So, enjoy a fantastic trip to Marrakech in November. It’s one of my favorite months in the city and I know you’ll love it too.

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