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

Is October a good time to visit Marrakech? With the scorching heat of summer well and truly over, visiting Marrakech in October can be ideal. The autumn climate is absolutely perfect for sightseeing. You can expect warm, sunny days, followed by cool nights that see riad fireplaces getting their first post-summer illumination.

In October, the intensity of the sun softens, casting a gentler light that seems to bring out the warm ochre tones of the medina’s ancient walls. In my opinion, October is a great time for photographers to visit Marrakech! 

Despite it being such a popular month to visit, I love visiting Marrakech in October. Autumn is my favourite season in general and I think the temperatures are idyllic.

This is also a great time to visit Marrakech if you’re thinking of heading to the Sahara Desert. After the intense summer heat, it’s once again comfortable enough to explore.

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

After the heat of late summer and early autumn, Marrakech in October offers a welcome respite, with temperatures mellowing to an average of 22°C (72°F). The weather strikes a perfect balance between warm, sunny days and cool, refreshing evenings. This is exactly how I like it!

Daytime highs hover around 28°C (82°F) before dipping to a mild 16°C (61°F) in the evenings. I’d suggest bringing a light jacket or jumper for nighttime strolls. 

October also sees a slight uptick in rainfall, with an average of 35mm spread throughout the month. But showers are usually brief and quickly give way to clear skies. You could get away without bringing a waterproof if you’re travelling light.

The increased precipitation breathes life into the city’s green spaces, making October a particularly wonderful time to explore Marrakech’s famous gardens. 

Is October a busy time in Marrakech?

Yes, October is one of the busiest times of the year in Marrakech. This is particularly towards the end of the month when European families are on their short school break.

Thanks to its pleasant weather, October has established a reputation as a peak travel month in Marrakech. Be prepared for large crowds at the most popular spots and a lively, energetic vibe throughout the city. 

It’s also worth noting that most of the best riads and hotels will book out early. If you’re visiting Marrakech in October, it pays to be organised with your travel plans!

The influx of visitors also means that hotel rates are often at their highest in October. Book accommodations well in advance. If you leave it to the last minute, you’ll have far fewer choices and may end up having to spend a bit more.

What’s on in Marrakech in October

Marrakech Air Show

This popular event is usually held in late October/early November at the Royal Moroccan Air Force’s military base in Marrakech. It has become a key gathering point in Africa for the aerospace sector, encompassing both military and civilian aspects.

With around 300 exhibitors participating, the Marrakech Air Show also attracts more than 100 international military and civil delegations. In short, it’s a big deal!

MOGA Electronic Music Festival

This annual festival takes place in the coastal city of Essaouira (around 2.5 hours’ drive from Marrakech) and celebrates both electronic music and digital arts. It features a diverse lineup of talented artists from Morocco and the wider Maghreb area, as well as a few from further afield.

At MOGA, you can expect live performances, audiovisual displays and engaging multimedia experiences that blend innovative technology with the region’s deep cultural roots.

Marathon des Sables

Often referred to as the “Sand Marathon,” this ultramarathon takes participants through the Sahara Desert. It’s considered one of the toughest foot races in the world. Covering a staggering 250 kilometres (156 miles), it pushes the physical and mental boundaries of even the most experienced endurance athletes.

Each year, the course changes, introducing an element of surprise. That being said, the base for the Marathon des Sables is usually in Ouarzazate, just over three hours’ drive from Marrakech. 

Best things to do in Marrakech in October

With the summer heat subsiding in Marrakech, the weather in October is ideal for exploring the city’s colourful souks, exotic gardens and historical landmarks. I’ve highlighted some of my favourite Marrakech destinations in this suggested one-day itinerary. It’s a great option for visitors who are short on time!

One of the best things to do in Marrakech in October is simply get lost in the maze-like alleys of the medina. Here, you’ll find stalls selling everything from handicrafts to spices, textiles and leather goods.

October is also an ideal time to visit the Saadian Tombs, which date back to a dynasty that ruled Marrakech from 1524 to 1659. The tombs feature several areas, including the ornate Mausoleum of Lalla Massouda and the grand Hall of 12 Columns.

Also not to miss is the magnificent Bahia Palace, which was commissioned in the late 19th century by Ahmed Ben Moussa. This architectural gem sprawls over 8,000 square meters and boasts sumptuously decorated rooms, plus several gorgeous courtyards and gardens.

Just around the corner is one of my favourite museums in Marrakech, the Moroccan Museum of Culinary Art. A visit to its Insta-worthy tea room is a “must”. This is also a great place to do a cooking class in Marrakech (you’ll find more cooking class recommendations here).

You can explore the Marrakech Palmeraie via camelback, horseback or quad bike. It’s a great place for those who are craving a bit of a thrill, without having to venture too far. 

No visit to Marrakech in October would be complete without touring its magnificent gardens. Most famous is Jardin Majorelle, which boasts an impressive collection of plants from around the globe. Yves Saint Laurent’s ashes are scattered here too.

Le Jardin Secret is another gem, with its serene courtyards, burbling fountains and beautiful plantings. You can also make the short trip outside of the city to Anima, a quirky garden conceived by multimedia artist André Heller. Ingredients grown in the grounds are used to create incredible dishes at the onsite Café Paul Bowles.

If you’re using Marrakech as a base to visit the Sahara Desert, October is ideal. For me, the temperatures are much more comfortable than in September and August.

If you don’t have time to venture all the way to the Sahara, there are some stunning luxury camps in Agafay to choose from. The Atlas Mountains are also easily accessible (before the winter snowfall arrives) if you want a broader taste of Morocco.

Is October a good time to visit Marrakech?

With summer’s intense heat in the (not so) distant past, October is an excellent time to visit Marrakech. You can expect warm days perfect for exploring the medina and cool evenings that invite you to rug up for nighttime strolls.

The autumn light takes on a softer quality, making October a photographer’s dream for capturing the city’s timeless beauty. 

That being said, October can be a busy time in Marrakech and you certainly won’t have the medina to yourself. With this in mind, it pays to plan ahead if you’re visiting Marrakech in October. The best riads and hotels often book out well in advance during this peak travel period.

But for those who are organised and are happy to work around the crowds, October in Marrakech promises unforgettable experiences set against a backdrop of picture-perfect autumn weather.

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.