Marrakech in February: What You Need to Know Now!

God I love Marrakech in February. And the reasons are tenfold. The weather is warm (not hot like in summer), prices are reasonable (thank you off-season), and the crowds are minimal.

Therefore, if you’re considering visiting Marrakech in February then I HIGHLY recommend you book your trip now. No, really, what are you waiting for?

Trust me, I live in Morocco and have lived on and off in Marrakech since January of 2023. I love spending February in Marrakech since the Medina isn’t nearly as congested as it is in summer.

You also won’t sweat to death as you explore top attractions and can save tons of money on tours, flights, riads, etc.

So, what’s the downside? Well, it is winter in Marrakech. Therefore, it’s a bit too cold for swimming, unless you find an awesome resort with an indoor pool.

You’ll also have to pack warm clothes since temperatures dip down in the evening to 8°C (46°F). Yeah, it’s not FREEZING but you also won’t want to walk around Marrakech in shorts and a t-shirt once the sun goes down.

The only other thing to note is that Ramadan is set to begin on Friday, February 28th. Please note that this start date is a GUESS. Google estimates the start date and it can be a few days earlier or later.

So, use this date as an estimate only since the real start date of Ramadan is determined the night before and based on the cycle of the moon.

Also, do NOT panic if you happen to be in Marrakech for Ramadan. It’s a really amazing holiday and I love celebrating Ramadan in Morocco with my partner (he’s Moroccan). But, I’ll talk more about that later.

Now, to help you make an informed decision about traveling to Marrakech in February, I’m going to detail the weather in Marrakech in February, the best things to do in Marrakech at this time of year, what to wear at this time of year, and more.

So, stop stressing and use this epic guide to plan the perfect trip to Morocco.

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Is February a Good Time to Visit Marrakech?

February is the perfect time to visit Marrakech since it’s off-season. Therefore, you’ll enjoy minimal crowds and can score some decent deals on tours, hotels, flights, and more.

Yup, none of the spring break or Easter-related crowds that you’ll find in March in Marrakech or in Essaouira during Ramadan.

Another benefit of visiting at this time of year is that it’s warm but not boiling hot. So, you can spend the day in Marrakech walking around the medina without losing a liter of sweat.

Just know that while it is warm, it is not hot. So, I think it is a bit too cold for swimming. You will also want to add lots of layers to your Marrakech packing list.

Yeah, it gets chilly in the evening/morning and then fairly hot in the middle of the day. Typically, I wear a T-shirt, pants, and a sweatshirt when I leave my riad in the morning.

I’ll then take my sweatshirt off in the middle of the day (when it gets hot) and then put it back on once the sun goes down.

So, if you plan to visit Marrakech at this time of year, layers are key. I would also double-check and make sure your riad has heat since I have stayed in some that absolutely do not have heat.

Finally, I would pack extra warm clothes if you want to visit the Sahara during a Marrakech to Fes Desert tour. The desert gets quite chilly in the evening and you’ll want to have a winter jacket to keep you warm.

Local Tip: I also would not do the hike to Mount Toubkal at this time of year. The Atlas Mountains will be COVERED in snow and the hike will be incredibly cold and snowy.

February Weather in Marrakech

Honestly, the weather in Marrakech in February is pretty awesome. You can expect daily highs of 21°C (70°F), daily lows of 8°C (46°F), and three days of rain throughout the month.

So, you can walk around in pants and a T-shirt during the day but will want to bundle up in a warm coat at night in Marrakech.

I also wouldn’t worry too much about the rain since rain is pretty infrequent in Marrakech. Yeah, Marrakech is in the desert. So, no need for a raincoat or rain jacket since there are only three days of rain throughout the month.

Finally, February means that the sun rises at around 8:09 am and sets at 7:22 pm. Obviously, the exact time changes slightly throughout the month.

However, you can expect around eleven hours of daylight each day. This is great since it means you will have plenty of time to enjoy the coolest things to do in Marrakech.

What to Wear in Marrakech in February

Layers, layers, and more layers will come in handy if you visit the city in February. I like to wear a cozy jacket/fleece/ sweatshirt in the mornings (before 9:00 am) and in the evenings since the temperature gets quite cold.

However, the temperature tends to heat up enough during the day that you should have no problem walking around in a T-shirt and a pair of pants.

Therefore, I’d suggest packing a winter jacket for the evening/early morning, and lightweight T-shirts, linen pants, maxi dresses, and skirts for the middle of the day.

Remember ladies, it’s best to dress modestly to avoid unwanted male attention in the Medina. So, try to avoid excessive cleavage, exposed midriff, or short skirts/shorts.

I’d also think twice about wearing skirts and dresses at night since the weather can get quite chilly. Meanwhile, during the day, I usually opt for linen pants and switch to warmer pants like jeans once the sun sets.

I also wouldn’t wear sandals in the Medina. The streets can be dusty and crowded and your feet can get hella dirty/stepped on.

So, closed-toe shoes are a better choice if you want to protect your feet as you walk around. Also, don’t forget to pack some sunscreen—the sun can be pretty intense, and you definitely don’t want to end up sunburned like I did!

February Events in Marrakech

Alright, there are basically NO public holidays that you need to know/worry about when visiting Marrakech in February. The only holiday you’ll want to be aware of is Ramadan.

Ramadan in Marrakech is estimated to start on February 28th (this is a GUESS and Google was off by a couple of days last year) and end in April in Marrakech. It is the holiest month of the year for Muslims.

This holiday lasts an entire month and celebrates when the angel Gabriel revealed the first verses of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad.

Generally, Muslims fast during daylight hours. However, you do not have to. In fact, many restaurants in Marrakech will be open to tourists (during the day) if you visit Morocco during Ramadan.

Just remember, Ramadan is the most important time of the year for locals. So, you may want to avoid eating in public (i.e. walking down the street and eating a snack) and drinking alcohol.

Yes, bars will be open and serving alcohol in Morocco. However, I avoid it since alcohol is haram or forbidden in Islam. So, I opt out as a sign of respect since Ramadan is a holy month for Moroccans.

That’s just me though and it is a personal choice. I do it because my boyfriend is Moroccan. Just be respectful and be aware of alcohol consumption in front of locals at this time of year.

Other than that, you may want to attend the Marrakech International Storytelling Festival. It is held for seven days during the second/third week of February and is one of the best things to do in Marrakech in February.

After all, this unique event brings together storytellers from around the globe as they share traditional stories and some modern performances too.

I love it because it is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. It is also held at various locations throughout the city, like the Music Museum and Dar Bellarj.

Another cool event that will be held this February is the Marrakech Biennale. It will be held from November 8, 2024, to February 22, 2025.

You’re lucky because this event is only held every two years. It’s also a great way to celebrate modern art, film, and literature through various films and readings.

Another facet of the event is the celebration of the harmonious coexistence between different cultures. Therefore, the event will be held in Darija, French, and English.

Local Tip: If you want to attend a cool event in Morocco in February then head to Tafroute. The almond capital of the country holds the Almond Festival the second week of February. It includes dancing, storytelling, and local music.

Just remember that Tafroute is NOT close to Marrakech. In fact, this tiny mountain town is about a 5+ hour drive from Marrakech.

Best Things to do in Marrakech in February

Marrakech is a wonderfully vibrant city. So, you will absolutely not run out of things to do. But, if you need some ideas then have a look at the list below.

1. Go Quad Biking Through the Desert

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (5415 Reviews) Price: $20.00 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick Up Included Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

This exceptional tour is one of my top picks when it comes to quad biking in Marrakech!

You’ll enjoy the thrill of a quad bike ride through the Agafay Desert and experience a breathtaking camel ride as you watch the sunset in the background. Afterward, savor delicious Moroccan food as you listen to live music in the background.

Now, your journey starts with a hotel pickup. You’ll then be dressed in traditional Berber attire before setting off on a camel ride through the rocky desert. The camel ride lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and is the perfect way to start your trip.

“It began with a WhatsApp update on time to be picked up from Abdillah. From start to finish Abdillah made us feel safe, welcomed and he was very knowledgeable. This was a very special trip on our wedding anniversary and we couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Abdillah was polite, funny and just an absolute gem the whole time. A very magical and beautiful experience, we highly recommend. Well organised, comfortable and enjoyable.”

Jade (read more reviews now)

Afterward, kick-start your quad bike and enjoy an exhilarating ride across the Agafay Desert, with the magnificent Atlas Mountains in the background.

Snap some awesome photos and enjoy your one-hour adventure on an epic bike built for two.

As the day ends, unwind around a crackling fire inside an authentic Berber tent. Gaze up at the star-filled sky and devour a mouth-watering traditional meal before returning to Marrakech.

An added bonus? You’ll get to learn how Argan oil is made and enjoy an impressive fire show too.

Overall, I absolutely loved this tour—so much so that I brought along my Moroccan boyfriend. He felt a bit out of place as the only local among the guests, but it added a fun twist to our experience (LOL).

2. Visit Jardin Majorelle

Jardin Majorelle, with its exquisite beauty and awesome charm, is a must-visit spot in Marrakech!

To enjoy a quiet walk through this iconic garden, try to arrive right when they open at 8:00/8:30 am. I’d also 100% recommend pre-booking your ticket online in advance.

Yeah, this place is super popular and lines can be out the door, even in February. You should also consider getting a combo ticket that includes admission to Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum.

Trust me, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is fantastic, and getting the combo ticket is way cheaper than purchasing tickets separately.

Once inside, immerse yourself in the garden’s lush greenery. Afterward, stand in awe of a beautiful blue studio that was designed by Jacques Majorelle in 1924.

Later, the site was revitalized in 1980 by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé. As a result, it has become the much-beloved landmark that you see today.

As a result, the garden is currently home to over 300 different plant species from around the world. And for an extra 30 Dirhams (approximately $3.00), you can check out the Musée Berbère too.

It is located inside Majorelle’s electric-blue studio and is home to over 600 artifacts from Morocco’s Berber people.
Personally, I’d skip the Musée Berbère since I didn’t find its collection particularly impressive.

3. Warm Up at the Hammam

If you want to relax after wandering around the bustling streets of Marrakech then consider stepping into a hammam for a truly relaxing experience.

Not sure what a hammam is? It’s a traditional Moroccan bathhouse where men and women enjoy steam baths, in separate facilities, and rejuvenate their skin with special exfoliating gloves.

You’ll find two main types of hammams in Marrakech: public and private. Public hammams have shared spaces where you can cleanse and scrub yourself surrounded by people of the same gender.

Meanwhile, private hammams offer a totally individual experience. So, an attendant will guide you through the hammam ritual as you sit in your own private room.

I had an unforgettable experience at Hammam Mouassine, an awesome public hammam where local guides (who sometimes speak English) walk you through the traditional bathing process.

However, if you prefer a more private experience then try Les Bains de Marrakech. A fabulous personal assistant will bathe you in warm water and exfoliate your skin at this epic hammam in the Medina.

But, for a touch of luxury, indulge in a treatment at one of the ultra-posh hammams at La Mamounia, Riad Tarabel, and Es Saadi.

4. Go Skiing at Oukaïmeden

One of the most exciting day trips from Marrakech in winter is to Oukaïmeden. This spot is roughly a two-hour drive from Marrakech and is an ideal destination if you’re into skiing.

After all, the ski season starts in January in Marrakech and doesn’t end until April. Plus, it’s just a fascinating place to visit since Oukaïmeden is the highest resort in Africa at 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) above sea level.

It overlooks beautiful Jebel Attar, which stands at 3,256 meters (10,682 feet) tall, and features 3 green, 4 blue, 8 red, and 3 black runs.

Yes, the skiing at Oukaïmeden might not be the most stellar since the facilities are a bit outdated. However, it’s still a fun place to hit the slopes in Morocco.

5. Enjoy the Sweetest Orange Juice Ever

If you only drink one thing in Marrakech in February, let orange juice be it. After all, this fruit is at its ripest in February and the juice will taste extra delicious at this time of year.

It’s also super easy to find. Just hit up one of the juice vendors in Jemaa el Fna Square and get ready to enjoy.

You’ll love that the juice here is extra delicious since locals combine tangerine juice with orange juice to create extra sweet juice.

Afterward, take some time to explore the square and enjoy the variety of characters that descend upon the space in the evening.

You’ll see everything from belly dancers to monkey handlers to snake charmers to henna artists. For the best views, head to a rooftop cafe around the square. This way you can comfortably watch all the people walk by.

Local Tip: Try to visit Jemaa el Fna Square in the evening. This is when the square is at its most exciting since most people avoid the intense heat of the day and come out at night.

6. Marvel at Koutoubia Mosque

A trip to the Koutoubia Mosque is an absolute must. It stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is surrounded by beautiful almond trees that come into bloom in February (they smell super sweet too).

Towering above the city at 253 feet (77 meters) tall, this is the largest mosque in the city. It is also very historic since it was originally built in 1147.

Sadly, it is closed to non-Muslims. However, you can still admire the exquisite minaret with its distinct Almohad-style architecture and intricate geometric patterns.

I also love walking along the many palm-lined paths, fountains, and gardens that surround the mosque. You’ll even spot the remnants of an ancient prayer hall as you make your way around the area.

7. See The Saadian Tombs

When you visit Marrakech I cannot recommend the Saadian Tombs enough. It’s just a gorgeous landmark and an amazing place to see traditional Moroccan architecture.

Just go early in the morning since the tombs are small and you’ll want to beat all of the tour groups here. This way you don’t feel like a Sardine packed into a tiny tin can as you walk around.

Initially, this space was built for Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi. He wanted a final resting place as magnificent as the palaces he lived in.

So, he commissioned the design of this splendid mausoleum with exquisite Italian Carrara marble and intricate muqarnas (aka plasterwork designs finished with gold).

Now, what will likely stand out to you first is just how well-preserved the building is. That’s because Sultan Moulay Ismail sealed it off to obliterate his predecessor’s memory, leaving it undiscovered until 1917.

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

The designs are beautiful and this spot is well worth a look since admission is just 60 Dirhams ($6.00) per person.

8. Stand in Awe of Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace is one of the most extraordinary palaces in Marrakech. However, its charm really becomes evident when you learn that “Bahia” translates to “brilliant” in English.

Yup, it’s the perfect name for a sprawling, 8,000-square-meter masterpiece with stunning architecture as far as the eye can see.

Now, once inside you’ll be greeted by exquisite tilework, detailed plasterwork, and exceptional Moroccan wood carvings known as zouak.

While the craftsmanship in the Petit Riad and the Grand Riad is remarkable, the Cour d’Honneur stands out with its elaborate courtyard filled with Italian Carrara marble.

Although only a few of its 150 rooms are open to the public, it’s still an incredible place to visit when you’re in Marrakech. Plus, the entry fee is a modest 70 Dirhams ($7.00) per person, making it accessible to anyone on a budget.

9. Go Shopping in the Souks

Looking for souvenirs in Marrakech? If so then visit Souk Semmarine. It’s a lovely market filled with vendors selling vibrant carpets, intricately designed brass lanterns, stunning leather goods, and traditional babouche slippers.

Afterward, lose yourself in the narrow lanes of the Medina as you head to Rahba Kedima, a colorful spice market brimming over with exotic spices.

Have a good look around before making your way to Souk Haddadine. This is one of my favorite souks since I love watching the blacksmiths craft amazing metal items right before my eyes.

Just be prepared to get lost since it is inevitable. Also, remember to carry cash and to perfect your bargaining skills if you want to snag the best deals.

No matter what, steer clear of antiques and jewelry, as they tend to be overpriced and fake.

You can also hit up other must-visit souks in Marrakech like Souk Cherratine for leather goods, Souk des Teinturiers for dyed wool, Souk des Babouche for traditional slippers, and La Criée Berbère for Berber carpets.

10. Explore Ben Youssef Madrasa

One of my favorite spots in Marrakech is Ben Youssef Madrasa. The architecture is gorgeous and I adore exploring the stunning student dormitories that you see as you make your way up to the second floor.

I genuinely believe this is one of the most beautiful places in Marrakech. So, even if you’re not fond of historical sites you’ll love exploring this renowned school.

It was established in the 14th century and became the largest in North Africa since it was originally designed to accommodate over 900 students.

To this day, it is the biggest madrasa in the country and a perfect place to admire exquisite tilework, intricate woodwork, and ornate fountains.

Also, keep your eyes open for motivational quotes like “May you exceed your greatest ambitions upon entering my doors.”

I’d recommend starting with the courtyards on the lower floors before heading upstairs. In total, you probably won’t spend more than an hour here since there aren’t many artifacts on display and you’re basically just exploring empty rooms.

It also can be a bit crowded. Thankfully though, lines move quickly and tickets cost just 50 Dirhams ($5.00). Afterward, visit the Marrakech Museum and the Almoravid Koubba since both sites are right next door.

Conclusion

As you can see, February is a great time to visit Marrakech for a lot of different reasons. Just pack some warm clothes and you will absolutely not run out of amazing things to do or cool events to attend.

I would also leave the bathing suit at home since it will be a bit too cold to swim. Other than that, have an amazing time experiencing all that Marrakech has to offer.

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