Visiting Marrakech in May: Weather + Events + Things to Do
Is May a good time to visit Marrakech? Visiting Marrakech in May can be a really magical experience. The city has a palpable energy and vibrancy in its streets. The heat in the air creates that classic Moroccan ambiance, without being too overwhelming.
In fact, the weather in Marrakech in May can be blissful. It’s warm, sunny days with clear blue skies that stretch endlessly above the red clay buildings.
With the high season starting to kick in, Marrakech really feels alive in May. But it’s without the overwhelming crowds that can descend later in the summer. It’s a bit of a sweet spot that allows you to experience Marrakech’s buzz without being stifled by throngs of tourists.
And if the crowds do get too much, there are lots of day trips you can do from the city to find a slice of peace and quiet.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Marrakech in May, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Marrakech in May to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan vacation? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in May here.
For more information about exploring the “Red City”, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Marrakech.
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Marrakech weather in May
Marrakech in May offers warm, sunny weather that’s ideal for sightseeing in the morning before becoming quite hot in the middle of the day. You can expect average daily temperatures ranging from around 18°C (64°F) up to 30°C (86°F). That being said, it can feel warmer surrounded by the ochre walls of the medina.
Occasionally, midday temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F). So finding a hotel or riad with a swimming pool is highly recommended if you’re visiting Marrakech in May.
As the sun sets, the evenings become cooler, with temperatures dropping to a still-pleasant 15°C (59°F). This is ideal for alfresco dining and experiencing the buzz of Djemaa el-Fnaa.
Rainfall is rare in Marrakech in May, with an average of only 5mm throughout the month. You can probably get away without bringing a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
Is May a busy time in Marrakech?
May is definitely a busy time to visit Marrakech as it marks the start of the summer high season. This continues through to late August. Many of the city’s most famous attractions will have crowds and you may need to make dinner reservations at some of Marrakech’s most popular restaurants.
Hotel and riad rates tend to be higher than in April and March, reflecting the increase in demand. Keep in mind the most sought-after accommodations will book out well in advance. It pays to be organised if you’re visiting Marrakech in May!
In 2026, Eid al-Adha will take place from 26 to 30 May, with many Moroccans on the move in the lead up to visit family and friends. I’d highly recommend booking any transportation well in advance if you’re travelling around these dates. Also, be aware that some businesses will close for a few days over the festivities.
What’s on in Marrakech in May
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha is a highly-anticipated Islamic festival that will take place from 26 to 30 May 2026. Families throughout Morocco, including Marrakech, will sacrifice a sheep in remembrance of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael.
This is followed by three days filled with feasting, prayer and community gatherings. It really is a wonderful time to be in Morocco! That being said, it’s important to plan ahead if you’re visiting Marrakech during Eid al-Adha. Many businesses may close for a few days.
You can learn more about what to expect in this article: Travelling to Morocco During Eid al-Adha.
Festival of Roses
Held across three days in May, this fragrant festival celebrates the annual harvest of the Damascus rosebuds in the picturesque Valley of the Roses. It takes place in the gateway town of Kalaat M’Gouna, which is around five hours drive from Marrakech and well worth an overnight trip.
The festival features market stalls, musical performances and Amazigh cultural activities, all set against the backdrop of dramatic desert scenery. If possible, take a few days to explore not only the Valley of the Roses but also Dades and Todra gorges.
Best things to do in Marrakech in May
With warm-to-hot (but not scorching) temperatures, visiting Marrakech in May is ideal for exploring the medina. The weather is perfect for admiring some of Marrakech’s architectural gems, such as the Bahia Palace and Madrasa Ben Youssef.
You can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of Le Jardin Secret or learn about Yves Saint-Laurent’s links to Marrakech at Jardin Majorelle. If you want to avoid the crowds, I’d recommend visiting early in the morning, just after they open.
During the heat of the day, you can return to your riad for a siesta or a swim in the pool. Alternatively, purchase a day pool pass for Le Jardin at the Royal Mansour, one of the most luxurious hotels in Marrakech.
As evening falls, head to the famous Djemaa el-Fnaa square where snake charmers, henna artists and musicians entertain the crowds. Here, you’ll find plenty of food stalls serving everything from tagines to grilled meats and snails!
Top tip:
If you prefer to watch all the action of Djemaa el-Fnaa from a distance, settle in with a mint tea at Le Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier. It doesn’t receive rave reviews for its meals or service, but it does (arguably) offer the best views of the square.
As Marrakech can get quite busy in May, it’s an ideal time to take a break from the city on a day trip. You can discover the lush landscapes of the Ourika Valley on a guided tour or venture further afield on a 5 Valleys Tour from Marrakech. This takes in traditional Amazigh villages and incredible scenery!
Alternatively, head to the awe-inspiring Ouzoud Waterfalls, which plunge more than 100 metres over a rocky cliff. It’s located in an area of the Atlas Mountains that is home to Barbary macaques – if you’re lucky, you might spot a few!
May is also a fantastic time to explore the Agafay Desert, with its rocky landscapes providing a complete contrast to the desert scenery of the Sahara. In addition to going on camel rides and quad biking adventures, you can stay the night at a luxury camp to experience incredible stargazing after dark.
This is a great option for those who don’t have time to go all the way to the Sahara but still want a Moroccan desert experience.
If you prefer a coastal escape, Essaouira is also beautiful in May and will usually be a bit cooler than Marrakech due to the ocean breezes. You can spend a day strolling through its whitewashed medina (it’s far more relaxed than Marrakech’s historic district), browse the art galleries and handicraft stores or feast on fresh sardines at the port.
Is May a good time to visit Marrakech?
In my opinion, May is a fantastic time to visit Marrakech if you want warm weather, without it being too hot. The temperatures are ideal for sightseeing in the medina and exploring the nearby Atlas Mountains. It’s also hot enough to take advantage of the hotel or riad pool.
While May is considered the start of peak tourist season, the crowds tend to be more manageable than during July and August. If you need a respite from the sensory overload, you can escape to the serene oases of Jardin Majorelle or Le Jardin Secret, both of which are at their best following the spring rains.
Overall, May offers a perfect balance of good weather and manageable crowds, as well as that intoxicating magic that makes Marrakech such a captivating destination.
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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.
