As the Northern Hemisphere transitions from the depths of winter into the gradual awakening of spring, Morocco is magnificent in more ways than one. The temperatures are relatively mild, particularly in the south of the kingdom, making February an ideal time to visit if you want to escape the chill back home. Additionally, it is one of the quietest months for tourism in the country, something I appreciate as an expat living in Morocco!
February is a wonderful time to explore the Sahara and the sunny coastal cities of Agadir and Essaouira, which offer a welcome escape from the winter snows that may be blanketing the landscape back home. The month also plays host to the Almond Blossom Festival in the charming town of Tafraoute for those wanting to venture off-the-beaten tourist track. In some cases, you can find significantly more affordable prices on flights, accommodations and tour packages, making it one of the cheapest months to visit Morocco.
During this slower period, tour groups tend to be smaller, allowing for more personalised interactions and the chance to delve deeper into the country's rich heritage and traditions. Whether it's meandering through the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech, marvelling at the architectural wonders of Fes or venturing into the Sahara's sweeping dunes, the encounters are refreshingly authentic.
Read on to discover what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in February, from weather to events and where to visit.
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Weather in Morocco in February
In the southern regions of Morocco, the weather in February is particularly pleasant, offering an ideal escape from the chill of winter. While February sees a slight decrease in rainfall compared to January, there's still a good chance of encountering a rainy day or two during your Moroccan vacation. The bustling city of Marrakech enjoys an abundance of sunshine, with daytime temperatures hovering comfortably around 20°C (70°F). Evenings can be much chillier, however, with lows dipping down to around 10°C (50°F).
Venture further north to Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier and the climate takes on a decidedly more wintery feel. Here, the mercury struggles to reach the mid-teens Celsius (low 60s Fahrenheit) and grey skies predominate. But the real extremes can be found in the Atlas Mountains, where daytime highs may climb as high as 20°C (70°F) during the day, only to plummet considerably once night falls. Be prepared with lots of layers of warm clothing!
Visiting Morocco in February
Is February a popular time to visit Morocco?
While the peak tourist season in Morocco typically runs from October through April, February stands out as a notably crowd-free month. This makes it an ideal time to visit Morocco for travellers looking to experience the country's rich culture and stunning landscapes without having to compete for space.
As the winter weather starts to wind down and spring slowly begins to emerge, February ushers in a period of tranquility across Morocco's cities and rural regions. Popular sites like the medinas of Fes and Marrakech, the dramatic gorges of the High Atlas mountains and the picturesque coastal towns along the Atlantic seaboard tend to be far less congested. As a result, you can nab significant savings on hotel and riad rates or perhaps splurge with a luxury stay.
Travelling to Morocco in February
Festivals and events in Morocco in February
Almond Blossom Festival
Each February, the small town of Tafraoute in southern Morocco celebrates the annual almond harvest with a festival showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the Amazigh people. In addition to music and dance performances, you can see artisanal crafts and sample almond-based delicacies, such as nougat and pastries. The nearby "Valley of the Temples" provides ample opportunity for hiking amid the dramatic, ochre-colored peaks, with the chance to marvel at the famous "Blue Painted Rocks" that seem to glow against the rugged terrain.
Visiting Morocco in February
Where to go in Morocco in February
Considering the weather, the best places to visit in Morocco in February are the country's Atlantic coastline and the Sahara Desert. Along the coast, temperatures are pleasantly warm, making it an ideal time to relax on the beaches surrounding Agadir, Mirleft and Sidi Ifni or hit the surf breaks around Taghazout (the Atlantic swells are at their best in winter).
Further inland, the Sahara Desert also offers exceptional experiences at this time of year, with the mild winter weather perfect for venturing out on camel treks or ATV tours. The clear, dust-free air makes February an excellent month for photography, allowing you to capture the vibrant colours and dramatic scenery of the Sahara in all its glory.
In the Atlas Mountains, the ski resort town of Oukaïmeden, located about 80 kilometres (50 miles) south of Marrakech, offers a small but enjoyable winter sports centre with downhill runs. Alternatively, the Michlifen ski station near Ifrane provides another option for hitting the slopes, with the views across the snow-blanketed hills worth the visit alone.
Beyond the outdoor adventures, travelling to Morocco in February means you can explore Morocco's captivating cities at a leisurely pace. Hire a private guide to wander the labyrinthine medinas of Marrakech and Fes (be sure to rug up for the latter) or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that permeates Essaouira’s cafes and art galleries.
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.