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

Is April a good time to visit Marrakech? With the weather warming considerably, April is a really popular time to visit Marrakech and there’s a noticeable uptick in visitor numbers. The city has a real buzz about it, with the restaurants and bars full as tourists flock to Marrakech before the scorching heat of summer sets in. 

In 2026, April in Marrakech will see local businesses returning to normal operating hours following the holy month of Ramadan. Additionally, you can expect an influx of visitors around Easter when many Europeans are on a short break.

This is peak season in Marrakech! Higher accommodation prices can be expected due to the increased demand and advance bookings are highly recommended. 

That being said, April is still a great time to visit Marrakech. The temperatures are blissfully warm and almost hinting at “hot”.

Yes, there will be more people at the city’s major attractions. But if you’re willing to discover some of Marrakech’s hidden gems or venture outside the city limits on day trips, you can still enjoy a crowd-free experience. 

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

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

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

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Marrakech weather in April

The weather in Marrakech in April is really sublime. You can expect warm temperatures that aren’t yet hot enough to make sightseeing unpleasant.

During the day, the mercury typically climbs to between 23°C and 28°C (73°F and 82°F). If you’re visiting Marrakech in April, you can comfortably get around in T-shirts and dresses.

Rainfall is quite low in April, with just 10 mm falling across the month. Personally, I think you can get away without bringing any waterproof gear. 

Evening temperatures drop to between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). So while it’s definitely not freezing, it’s wise to bring some warm layers for evening outings.

Is April a busy time in Marrakech?

April can be a busy time in Marrakech, especially if the Easter holiday falls within this month (as it will in 2026). European tourists flock to the city during their Easter break to enjoy the warm spring weather and unique cultural experiences.

I think April 2026 will be particularly busy in Marrakech. In theory, many visitors may wait until the end of Ramadan to book their trip, opting instead for April.

The influx of visitors during this peak travel period can lead to higher prices for accommodations compared to March. It’s definitely wise to book well in advance to secure your preferred hotel or riad.

Popular attractions in the city may be more crowded and tours are likely to fill up fast. If you’re travelling to Marrakech in April, it pays to be organised!

However, the lively atmosphere also makes April an exciting time to explore Marrakech. The restaurants and bars have a buzz about them and the gardens are looking gorgeous after the spring rain.

If you’re visiting Marrakech in April, it may just mean contending with more tourists and slightly higher prices.

What’s on in Marrakech in April

Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc

Since its inception in 1990, the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc has been attracting women from around the globe to this exclusively female road rally. Using only traditional navigation methods, competitors steer their vehicles along off-road routes with the aim of covering the shortest distance possible. This aligns with the rally’s commitment to environmental awareness.

In 2026, this thrilling event is scheduled to occur from March 27 to April 11 in the Moroccan Sahara. You can learn more here.

International Nomads Festival

Set in the remote Saharan village of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, this festival is a tribute to the area’s nomadic heritage. It attracts visitors from all over who come to experience the talents of local musicians, dancers, writers and artisans.

The festival also features educational workshops and talks that delve into the history, beliefs and everyday lives of the Saharan nomads, promoting a greater understanding of their distinctive lifestyle. You can learn more here.

Combine your visit to the International Nomads Festival with a night in a desert camp in the dunes of Erg Chigaga.

GITEX Africa

In 2024, Marrakech hosted the first African edition of Dubai’s annual tech show, GITEX, and it’s set to return in 2026 from April 7 to 9. It’s an opportunity for tech companies, startups and global innovation hubs to come together. In 2026, it is expected to be the largest gathering of African startups under the one roof.

In addition to speeches by leading entrepreneurs, the event will include masterclasses and workshops focused on cutting-edge technology. You can pre-register to visit here. 

Best things to do in Marrakech in April

April is a wonderful time to visit Marrakech, with blissfully warm temperatures perfect for exploring the city’s sights and attractions. You can comfortably shop in the souks and admire the exquisite architecture of landmarks like Palais Bahia, Ben Youssef Madrasa and Koutoubia Mosque.

Due to the crowds that can be expected at Marrakech’s most popular sights in April, I’d recommend heading to lesser-known gems. Consider visiting the House of Photography and the Moroccan Museum of Culinary Art, which occupies a beautifully restored 18th-century palace.

One of the best things to do in Marrakech in April is wander through Jardin Majorelle. This stunning botanical garden was created by the French Orientalist artist, Jacques Majorelle, in 1924.

It boasts approximately 300 diverse plant species from various parts of the world. In my opinion, it’s at its best following the spring rains.

In the 1980s, Yves Saint-Laurent acquired the garden, which now includes a museum honouring the iconic fashion designer. To avoid the April crowds, I’d recommend visiting Jardin Majorelle in the early morning, before too many other visitors arrive.

The Ourika Valley is enchanting in April and makes for a perfect day trip from Marrakech. Located in the Atlas Mountains, it is dotted with traditional Amazigh villages and the scenery here is really something!

One of my favourite things to do in Ourika is dine at the riverside eateries where you can dip your feet in the water while feasting on tagines!

For those looking to venture beyond Ourika, this 5 Valleys Tour from Marrakech comes highly recommended. It has earned the Viator Experience Award for its 5-star reviews.

“Authentic, unrushed and highly recommended.” – Shaunak (read more reviews here)

Essaouira also makes for an ideal day trip if you’re visiting Marrakech in April. Centred around a UNESCO-listed medina ringed by impressive 18th-century fortifications, this whitewashed port is located around 2.5 hours’ drive from Marrakech. It’s one of my favourite places in Morocco!

The medina is clustered with artisan workshops, eclectic cafes and enchanting art galleries – Essaouira really is a creative city! Additionally, there’s a lively port where you can feast on grilled sardines and a long beachfront promenade.

Even if it may not be warm enough for swimming in April, you can still go horseback riding on the sand or test your skills at kitesurfing. 

Is April a good time to visit Marrakech?

With the weather warming considerably and the daytime temps in the mid-to-high 20s Celsius, April is a great time to visit Marrakech. The city has fully awakened from its winter slumber. And in 2026, it will be returning to normal operating hours following the holy month of Ramadan.

Cafes and restaurants are once again lively during the day and the souks are readying themselves for the peak tourist season.

As Marrakech is such a popular destination, visitor numbers do increase noticeably in April, particularly around the Easter holidays. However, the city is well-equipped to handle the influx and the crowds are never overwhelming.

For those seeking a more laid-back experience, I’d recommend staying in one of the medina’s quieter neighbourhoods or the Marrakech Palmeraie. I’d also suggest taking a day trip to the nearby Atlas Mountains for some respite from the crowds.

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.