Spending September in Marrakech? If so then read this local’s guide to everything you need to know about this beautiful month in Marrakech.
Yes, it will be hot as balls and you will 100% want to stay in a riad with a plunge pool so that you can take a quick dip in the afternoon.
But, if you plan your outdoor activities for the early morning and the evening then you can have a really nice time.
Trust me, I have been living in Morocco since January of 2023 and have lived in Marrakech on and off many times.
So, I know all about the weather in Morocco in September, the best things to do in Marrakech in September, and about what to pack for Marrakech in September.
I’m gonna share all my expert tips with you so that you can plen the perfect trip to Marrakech in September.
Before you pack your bags, remember that September is NOT off-season. Therefore, expect crowds, book riads well in advance, and be prepared to spend some serious $$$ on flights and hotels.
However, if you don’t mind doing that then you can have a lovely time in Marrakech during this incredible time of year.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
Is September a Good Time to Visit Marrakech?
If I’m being brutally honest I personally do not think September is the best time to visit Marrakech.
If you like warm weather and want to chill at one of the best riads in Marrakech with a pool then it is a good time to visit since the weather is still wicked hot.
However, if you are not a fan of the heat then I wouldn’t visit in September unless you are prepared to sightsee in the early morning and after the sun has set since this is the coolest part of the day.
Additionally, the sun is VERY strong. You should wear lots of long linen layers and a nice sun hat to keep you protected.
Many people also assume that September is off-season in Marrakech and it isn’t. So, don’t expect to visit an empty city or to get deep discounts on flights and hotels.
TBH I think October in Marrakech, November in Marrakech, and December in Marrakech are all much better.
Instead, be prepared for crowds and book riads WELL in advance since many of the best and most affordable riads in Marrakech are quite small and become fully booked.
Local Tip: To make the most of your trip in September to Marrakech, book your riad well in advance. You can also spend the early morning/evening sightseeing since this is the coolest part of the day.
During mid-day, cool off and take time to relax by the pool. Also carry a refillable water bottle with a filter so that you stay hydrated during your four days in Marrakech.
In terms of attractions, most tickets do not have to be booked in advance. The exception to this is Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. I would book a combined ticket to both attractions in advance online.
This way you can beat the queues and save money when getting tickets to both attractions at the same time.
Weather in September in Marrakech
Like I said earlier, the weather in Marrakech in September is still VERY hot. So, expect daily highs of 33°C (91°F), daily lows of 19°C (66°F) and one rainy day per month. Yeah, not like what you might find in Marrakech during Ramadan.
On the plus side, days are still very long. So, you’ll have plenty of time and daylight to explore the city. In fact, sunrise is generally around 7:15 am while sunset is generally around 7:30 pm.
Overall, if you’re looking for super hot and sunny weather then Marrakech is a great place to visit in September. Just remember that most places in the city don’t have great a/c.
Therefore, while you can visit a Marrakech museum to try and best the mid-day heat, I personally would just head back to your riad and relax by the pool.
Remember, doing hardcore sightseeing in the early morning and the evening is key to not sweating to death and having a rad time in Marrakech.
I would also be prepared for the souks in Marrakech to be packed with people. These are very narrow streets and you will encounter a lot of people while walking around, as well as donkeys, motorbikes, tuk-tuks, etc.
Planning 7 Days in Morocco? Start Here.
Skip the hours of research and guesswork. I created this 45-page, step-by-step Morocco itinerary based on my years of living and traveling in Morocco. It lays out where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of a 7-day trip, without spending weeks planning it yourself. Get the practical itinerary I wish every first-time Morocco traveler had.
September Events in Marrakech
Ramadan can on occasion occur in September but the holiday is currently in March/February in 2024. So, you won’t have to worry about that any time soon.
The only public holiday in September is Mawlid or Eid-e-Milad an-Nabi. This holiday may take place between September 15th and September 17th, but the exact dates can vary.
Yeah, this happens a lot with holidays in Morocco so don’t be surprised if what Google tells you is wrong.
Anyway, this holiday celebrates the birthday of the prophet Muhammad but won’t really affect you all that much since most tourist attractions will be open. It’s just that government buildings and schools will be closed.
But cool September events that you might be able to check out include:
- The Feast of the Brides (Moussem of Imilchil) – This event is not in Marrakech but is in the nearby Atlas Mountains. It is usually held the third week of September and is a unique festival that features a group wedding for 30 young people. It includes music, dancing, and vibrant souks and is just a super unique event to attend. It’s worth noting that this festival is not easy to get to and is about 350 kilometers away from Marrakech.
- The Oasis Festival – This festival is usually held the first week of the month (this year it’s September 6th through 8th). It’s a vibrant electronic music festival that includes international DJs, contemporary art, food, and fashion. It also has a wellness component that features yoga sessions, afternoons by the pool, spa sessions, and smoking shisha.
Best Things to do in Marrakech in September
There are lots of cool things to do in September. Here are a few of my favorites that you might enjoy whether you spend one day in Marrakech or three days in Marrakech.
1. Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa
This is one of my all-time favorite attractions in Marrakech. I love the insanely beautiful architecture and the gorgeous student dormitories that you get to explore as you climb the stairs to the upper levels of the school.
Honestly, I think it’s one of the most beautiful places in Marrakech that I’ve been to and even if you’re not into historic places, definitely give this place a visit.
See, this famous school was started in the 14th century. It quickly became the largest school in North Africa since it was built to house 900+ students.
In fact, it’s still the largest madrasa in the country and is a great place to see amazing tilework, woodwork, and ornate fountains.
Just keep your eyes peeled as you enter the school since you might be able to spot inspiring quotes like, “May you exceed your greatest ambitions upon entering my doors.”
Personally, I would explore the courtyards of the lower levels before heading upstairs. I wouldn’t expect to spend more than an hour here since there are not a lot of artifacts on display and you’re really just walking through a series of empty rooms.
It will be crowded but you won’t have to wait long to buy a ticket, which cost 50 Dirhams ($5.00) the last time I was here.
Afterward, visit the Marrakech Museum or Almoravid Koubba since both attractions are also well-located in the area.
2. Check Out Other Cool Museums in Marrakech
There are no shortage of fun museums in Marrakech, many of which are conveniently located in the Medina. If you can, try to visit a museum in the middle of the day when the sun is at its strongest.
This way you can enjoy a well-deserved break from the heat and still enjoy the best things to do in Marrakech in September. Some of my favorite museums in the city include:
- Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum – I 100% recommend visiting Jardin Majorelle right when they open to avoid the crowds. It’s a magical place and getting a combined ticket in advance online will help you avoid long lines and save money. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is also great and is a fun place to learn about the famous French fashion designer and to see some of his most amazing pieces. I am not into fashion and loved my visit.
- Dar El Bacha Museum – This former palace was built for Pacha Thami El Glaoui and is a fantastic example of traditional riad-style architecture. You’ll see tons of zellige (geometric tilework), stunning white plasterwork, carved cedar-wood lintels, and a lovely outdoor courtyard/garden in the back. Afterward, explore the temporary exhibits as well as an ancient hammam before grabbing a coffee at one of the most beautiful cafes in Marrakech.
- Maison de la Photographie (Photography Museum) – This cool museum sits inside an old riad that purchased by Parisians Patrick Menac’h and Hamid Mergani. They created a museum to share their love of Moroccan photos from 1870 to 1950. Stop by to admire over 4,500 photographs, 2,000 glass negatives, and 80 vital documents. You can also grab a mint tea on the roof and relax at one of the coolest rooftop cafes in Marrakech.
- Dar Si Said Museum – This palace from the late 19th century belonged to the brother of the Grand Vizier, Si Said. Today, this mansion is an impressive museum where you can escape the crowds and see historic artifacts from master craftsmen. Highlights include carpets, jewelry, weapons, woodwork, pottery, ceramics, weapons, trays, tea pots, musical instruments, etc.
3. Visit the Saadian Tombs
This is another place that I would 100% recommend visiting first thing in the morning. It’s small and the rooms and corridors can feel cramped.
Therefore, once the tour groups descend upon this place it can be really challenging to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful architecture all around you.
However, this spot in Marrakech is a must-see. It was commissioned by Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi who wanted a tomb just as beautiful as the palaces he called home.
So, he built himself a gorgeous mausoleum with exquisite Italian Carrara marble and muqarnas (aka decorative plasterwork highlighted with gold).
Now, the first thing you’ll probably notice when you step inside is how well-preserved the building is. That’s because Sultan Moulay Ismail hid the entire structure behind walls in an effort to erase the memory of his predecessor.
So, the building wasn’t officially rediscovered until 1917. Today, 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 are 60 Dirhams ($6.00) per person and this place is usually open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
Want to Feel Confident Traveling in Morocco?
Get the practical safety advice I wish every first-time visitor had before their trip. I’ve lived in Morocco since 2023 and have spent years traveling around the country. I created this 26-page Morocco Safety Guide to give you practical, realistic advice for navigating Morocco confidently—from avoiding common tourist scams to knowing what to expect and how to handle situations that can catch first-time visitors off guard. No fear-mongering. No generic advice from someone who spent a week in Marrakech. Just practical tips from someone who actually lives here.
4. Visit Bahia Palace
Easily the grandest and most beautiful palace in Marrakech, “Bahia” actually translates to “brilliant” in English.
So, the name of this famous building is rather fitting since this 8,000-square-meter palace is filled with stunning tilework, amazing plasterwork, and beautiful zouak (aka traditional Moroccan wood carving).
Seriously, if you only visit one building in the city then let this be it since I basically had to pick my jaw up off the floor as I walked through the Petit Riad and the Grand Riad with their epic woodwork and ceilings.
However, the real standout for me was the Cour d’Honneur. It’s a super charming courtyard that is overflowing with Italian Carrara marble. Definitely take some time to hang out here and enjoy the exquisite feel of this place.
Sadly, only a few of the 150 rooms are open to the public. But, I think it’s worth paying 70 Dirhams ($7.00) to visit.
5. Visit Bacha Coffee
Without a doubt, Bacha Coffee is probably the prettiest and most magical cafe that I have been to in Marrakech. Since moving to Morocco, I have been here at least four or five times and keep coming back for more.
That’s probably because the service is great, the decor is incredible, the almond croissants (two come per order) are divine, the prices are reasonable, and the coffee is excellent.
It’s one of the few places in Marrakech that actually lives up to all of the Instagram hype. Now, because this cafe is located inside Dar El Bacha Museum, I would arrive right when they open (at 10:00 am) and grab a seat at the cafe.
However, if you can’t do this then put your name down for a table and explore the museum while you wait. When you’re ready, order some almond croissants and a giant gold pot of coffee served with fresh whipped cream and grated vanilla.
The coffee menu is huge though. So, if you’re not sure what to order, just ask the staff and they will be more than happy to assist you.
Local Tip: They close on Mondays so you won’t be able to visit that day. I would also relax and spend an hour or two soaking up the incredible decor of one of the coolest restaurants in Marrakech.
6. Visit Jardin Majorelle
This is easily one of the most popular places in Marrakech. So, I would get here right when they open (around 8:30 am) and explore this beautiful garden before everyone gets here (hopefully).
I would also pre-book your ticket online in advance. If you can, book a combo ticket with the Yves Saint Laurent Museum since both places are amazing and it will save you money.
Other than that, enjoy one of the most exquisite green spaces in the city and stand in awe of a garden that was initially created by Jacques Majorelle in 1924.
Later, in 1980, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé acquired the space and converted it into a stunning garden that is now home to over 300 plant varieties from around the globe.
For an additional 30 Dirham ($3.00), you can check out the Musée Berbère inside Majorelle’s vibrant, electric-blue art studio. It’s a dynamic space that is home to over 600 items celebrating Morocco’s indigenous culture.
Personally, I didn’t find the museum all that exciting and would just enjoy the beauty of the garden.
7. Visit Jemaa el-Fna Square in the Evening
Love it or hate it, Jemaa el Fna Square is definitely a vibe. It’s filled with people and the space really only comes alive around 5:00 pm, once the sun starts to go down.
Therefore, this is easily one of the coolest places to go in Marrakech at night.
This is when you’ll see exotic belly dancers, snake charmers, monkey handlers, musicians, and vendors all flood the area in an effort to avoid the intense mid-day sun.
For a stunning aerial view of the square, head to one of the rooftop cafes along the perimeter of the square. We like L’Adresse Cafe and Restaurant, but basically any cafe will do since they all have stellar sunset views.
Just be sure to arrive early since prime seats fill up quickly. Depending on the cafe, you may have to order a full meal if you want to sit at the restaurant’s highest rooftop.
8. Explore the Souks
Looking for some cool Marrakech souvenirs? Then visit Souk Semmarine. This bustling pedestrian street is super lively and kind of reminds me of Bond Street in London.
As you walk through the souk (market), discover a magical marketplace filled with colorful carpets, intricately designed brass lanterns, exquisite leather goods, and babouche slippers.
If you have time, wander through the narrow alleyways that lead into Rahba Kedima (aka the spice market) and Souk Haddadine, a fascinating alley filled with working blacksmiths.
Yup, no visit to the Medina would be complete without getting lost amidst the many souks of Marrakech looking for the best souvenirs from Morocco.
Remember to bring cash and sharpen your bargaining skills since haggling is the norm here. I would also avoid buying jewelry and antiques since they are usually fake and overpriced.
Other cool souks to explore include Souk Cherratine (for leather goods), Souk des Teinturiers (see brightly dyed wool), Souk des Babouche (for traditional slippers), and La Criée Berbère for authentic Berber carpets.
9. Relax at the Hammam
There’s no better way to relax after a busy day in Marrakech than with a trip to an amazing Marrakech hammam.
Essentially, hammams are communal baths, separated by gender, where locals go to indulge in a steam bath and to use an exfoliating glove to cleanse their skin.
Generally, there are two types of hammams, public hammams and more expensive, private hammams.
Public hammams are communal and offer visitors a space where they can disrobe, bathe in hot water, and remove any unwanted dirt/dead skin with members of the same gender.
I went to Hammam Mouassine and thought it was an excellent place to experience a public hammam. It offers a more authentic experience with the added convenience of having a guide to walk you through the process.
However, bathing with other people may not appeal to everyone, as it involves undressing in front of others.
So, if you’re looking for a more intimate experience then try a private hammam like Les Bains de Marrakech.
I visited this hammam the first time I was in Marrakech and liked having a personal assistant bathe me in hot water and scrub off all the dead skin.
Additionally, hotels like La Mamounia, Riad Tarabel, and Es Saadi have top-notch hammams on-site if you’re looking for a bit more pampering.
Many yoga retreats in Marrakech also give you the chance to visit a hammam. In fact, Riad Be has a hammam and a cool yoga studio in Marrakech for you to check out.
10. Go on a Camel Ride through the Palmeraie
This is one of those unique things to do in Marrakech that you might want to try once the sun goes down and the heat of the day subsides.
Situated about 10 kilometers (6 miles) outside of Marrakech, the Palmeraie features an oasis of 100,000 palm trees that are spread out across 13,000 hectares of land.
The trees were planted during the Almoravid dynasty, so this is a historic park that dates back to the 17th century.
Stop by and book a camel ride through this incredible place today. This activity is perfect for families and anyone who wants to escape the chaos of the city.
What to Pack for Marrakech in September?
September in Marrakech means a lot of hot weather. Therefore, I highly recommend that you pack light, loose layers to keep you cool and protect you from the sun.
Personally, I like to wear light, long-sleeve, quick-dry hiking shirts, and light hiking pants. However, if you want to be a bit more stylish than me, try wearing linen pants, linen tunic tops, or a cute jumpsuit made of a light fabric.
Comfortable shoes are also essential (I like closed-toe shoes to protect my feet in the Medina) as is a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle with a water filter.
I personally drink the water in Morocco. But, I live here and have gotten used to it. So, I would use a water filter just in case. This way you can stay hydrated without worrying about any stomach issues.
Other than that, just bring a light jacket or a fleece for the evening since the temperatures can cool down a bit.
You may also want to wear lots of layers so that you can stay warm in the morning and then take off your layers in the afternoon when it gets hot out.
Planning a Trip to Morocco? Let Me Help You Get It Right.
Not sure where to go, how long to stay, or how to put everything together? Book a private one-on-one Morocco travel consultation with me, and let’s figure it out together. I’ve lived in Morocco since 2023 and have spent years exploring the country. I’ll help you create or refine an itinerary based on your interests, travel style, timeframe, and budget—rather than giving you a generic itinerary that may not actually suit you. Already have an itinerary? That’s okay too. We can go through it together, and I’ll help you identify what works, what doesn’t, and where you can make improvements.
Stop second-guessing your Morocco trip. Let’s make a plan.
Conclusion
Overall, September in Marrakech can be really nice. No, you won’t save tons of money on hotels and flights. You also will have to deal with crowds since it’s peak season and that can be annoying
However, if you love basking in the hot, summer sun and want to spend the day chilling by the pool then it can be a great time to visit Marrakech.
Just book your hotel early, pack lots of light clothes, and carry plenty of water to help you stay hydrated during those hot days of September. Do this and you will have an amazing time visiting one of the best cities in Morocco.
If you enjoyed this post, be sure to join our email list and Facebook group for even more awesome travel advice.
Finally, please consider buying me a coffee. It’s a great way to say “thank you” for all the free content you receive. No amount is too small and anything you can give will be greatly appreciated.
