Visiting Marrakech in November: Weather + Events + Things to Do

Is November a good time to visit Marrakech? November can be a great time to visit Marrakech, particularly if you like mild autumn weather and reduced crowds.

While you should be prepared for rainfall (November is one of the wettest months in Marrakech), you can also expect daily highs in the low 20s Celsius (low 70s Fahrenheit). It’s absolutely perfect temperatures for sightseeing! 

November also sees fewer tourists compared to the peak travel period, which extends from late spring to early autumn. This means you can often find lower rates at hotels and riads, as well as a bit more breathing room in the medina and while shopping at the souks.

That being said, you’ll want to keep in mind that days are shortening in November. Plus, the nights can be cold, so be sure to pack layers!

As someone who loves the cold, November is one of my favourite times to be in Marrakech. Not only do I love the mild temperatures when I’m out and about in the daytime but I adore cosying up beside a fireplace at my riad in the evening.

It’s also perfect if you’re thinking of using Marrakech as a base for visiting the Sahara or Agafay. The desert conditions are at their optimal in November. 

In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Marrakech in November, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Marrakech in November to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary. 

Planning a longer Moroccan summer escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in November here.

For more information about exploring the “Red City”, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Marrakech.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!

Marrakech weather in November

In November, the weather in Marrakech is beginning to transition from autumn to winter. You can expect much milder temperatures compared to those experienced in October.

Daytime highs hover around 23°C (73°F) before dipping to around 11°C (52°F) in the evenings. If you’re visiting Marrakech in November, you should definitely bring a jacket or jumper for heading out at night. 

November is one of the wettest months in Marrakech, with an average of 40mm spread throughout the month. I’d recommend packing a waterproof jacket or umbrella, just in case you get caught in a shower.

The increased precipitation means that Marrakech’s gardens are wonderfully lush during November. This is a great time to visit for green thumbs!

Is November a busy time in Marrakech?

November is considered the shoulder season in Marrakech as it falls between the peak summer tourist season and the Christmas/New Year’s break. While not as crowded as June through October, November still sees a fair amount of tourism activity in Marrakech.

The mild weather makes it an attractive time to visit for those looking to avoid the intense heat, as well as escape the large crowds.

While November may not be the busiest time in Marrakech, the city still has a lively atmosphere. There are plenty of visitors exploring the historic medina and shopping in the souks. Accommodation prices can dip slightly due to the reduced demand but it still pays to book ahead.

Overall, November can be an ideal time to visit if you’re seeking a balance between good weather, manageable crowds and a full array of activities and sights to experience.

What’s on in Marrakech in November

Moroccan Independence Day 

Every year on November 18, Morocco commemorates its independence from French colonialism, which took place back in 1956. Also known as Fête de l’Indépendance, it sees colourful parades ignite the streets of Marrakech, complete with traditional music performances.

Communities also come together to celebrate, with families and friends enjoying a festive meal while taking a break from school and work.

International Film Festival of Marrakech 

This film festival usually takes place from late November through to the first week of December, attracting filmmakers, actors and movie lovers from around the world. Marrakech’s streets and squares buzz with excitement as directors showcase their latest films. Screenings are held in both theatres and outdoor locations throughout the city.

In addition to the film showings, the festival hosts panel discussions, master classes and networking events. In short, it creates opportunities for filmmakers to connect, collaborate and exchange creative ideas.

Best things to do in Marrakech in November

As autumn transitions into winter, November brings idyllic temperatures for exploring the medina. A highlight is simply wandering through the winding alleys, home to architecturally impressive mosques, lively squares and local eateries.

Marrakech is particularly famed for its souks where you’ll find stalls brimming with everything from handmade crafts to aromatic spices, textiles and leather goods. With a slight reduction in crowds in November, you’ll be able to shop (and haggle) with less pressure to close a deal!

November is a fantastic time to visit Marrakech’s historic sites and buildings, including Ben Youssef Madrasa and the Saadian Tombs. The latter dates back to a dynasty that ruled Marrakech from 1524 to 1659 and includes the beautifully decorated Mausoleum of Lalla Massouda.

Also of note is Bahia Palace, built in the late 19th century by Ahmed Ben Moussa, the grand vizier to Sultan Abdelaziz.

Just around the corner from Bahia Palace is the Moroccan Museum of Culinary Art, one of my favourite destinations in the medina.

If you want to escape the busy medina for an afternoon, you can venture to the Marrakech Palmeraie. This picturesque area is home to more than 100,000 palm trees and can be explored on camelback, horseback or even by quad bike.

If you have time to venture further afield, I’d recommend taking a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. You can explore traditional Amazigh villages and the views on offer are really wonderful. 

Visiting Marrakech in November wouldn’t be complete without visiting its stunning gardens. Many are at their best during this relatively wet month.

Jardin Majorelle is an obvious favourite (it’s the final resting place of Yves Saint Laurent). But I’d also suggest checking out Le Jardin Secret with its tranquil courtyards and burbling fountains. You can also take a short journey outside the city to Anima, a whimsical space created by multimedia artist André Heller.

Is November a good time to visit Marrakech?

In my opinion, November can be a wonderful time to explore Marrakech, particularly if you don’t mind the milder temperatures. While November does bring an increased chance of rain, they are typically brief and leave the air crisp and clean.

The cooler temperatures also make it more comfortable to explore the medina and the city’s gardens are at their best.

With the peak tourist season winding down, November offers a more relaxed sightseeing experience in Marrakech. The crowds at popular attractions tend to be thinner, allowing you to appreciate their beauty at a more leisurely pace. This is one of my favourite months to be in the “Red City”.

As there isn’t so much demand for accommodation, you may also find that prices for hotels and riads are slightly reduced. Visiting Marrakech in November is great for a budget stay.

However, you should keep in mind that the days are growing shorter in November. So you’ll need to plan your itinerary accordingly. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.