With spring in full swing, March is a wonderful time to visit Morocco. During this time of year, the temperatures are pleasantly warm during the day, often reaching the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit). This makes it an ideal time for exploring both the cities and the diverse landscapes of this captivating North African nation. That being said, the nighttimes can still be crisp and cool, with the temperate contrast all part of the allure.
In March, the tourist crowds that flood Morocco's most popular cities and attractions during the peak summer season have not yet arrived in full force. This means you can savour the architectural wonders of Marrakech and Fes with fewer people vying for the same photo opportunities. The exception to this is if the Easter holidays happen to fall in March, bringing a noticeable uptick in visitors.
With the landscapes beginning to awaken from their winter slumber, March is an exceptional time to enjoy Morocco’s great outdoors. Budding trees and blooming flowers dot the rolling hills and mountain ranges, offering a majestic feast for nature lovers. The Sahara Desert is also at its best, with idyllic daytime temperatures and crisp nights for enjoying the convivial atmosphere around the campfire.
Read on to discover what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in March, from weather to events and where to visit.
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Weather in Morocco in March
As winter's chill begins to fade across Morocco, the transition into the warmer springtime season arrives earlier than in much of the Northern Hemisphere. In Marrakech, the daily highs often reach into the low 20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit) - perfect for exploring the city's maze-like medina and colourful souks before the summer heat kicks in. Further north, in the imperial city of Fes, the coastal port of Tangier and the blue-hued town of Chefchaouen, March temperatures tend to be slightly cooler, but still pleasant enough to enjoy time outdoors.
The arrival of spring in Morocco does come with a trade-off - increased rainfall - and March is considered one of the country's rainiest periods. While this may mean packing an umbrella or light jacket for protection against the occasional shower, the upside is that the precipitation breathes new life into Morocco's often arid landscapes. In response, the country's deserts and mountains ignite with lush greenery and blossoming orchards.
Visiting Morocco in March
Is March a popular time to visit Morocco?
As the winter chill begins to fade and spring's warmth starts to take hold, March is one of the best times to visit Morocco, but not its most popular. While the high tourist season has not yet reached its peak, the country's major cities and desert landscapes start to see a noticeable uptick in visitor numbers. This makes March an ideal time to experience Morocco's rich culture and stunning natural beauty with a buzz in the air, but without having to contend with large crowds.
You can wander the winding alleyways of ancient medinas, haggle for treasures in bustling souks and trek through the High Atlas mountains, all with a greater sense of space and solitude. That being said, it's important to note that if the Easter holidays fall during the month of March, a temporary surge of holiday-goers may descend upon the country. With a bit of careful planning, this shoulder season sweet spot makes March a fantastic time to visit Morocco.
Travelling to Morocco in March
Festivals and events in Morocco in March
Ramadan
In 2025, Ramadan will fall in the month of March and is observed by the majority of Morocco’s Muslim population. This major religious observance in the Islamic calendar is a time of fasting, prayer and deepening one's connection to faith. Families gather together in the evenings to break their daily fasts and sharing in one of these convivial meals is a highlight of any visit. It’s worth keeping in mind that restaurants, stores and public spaces may have reduced opening hours and travellers need to plan accordingly. You can learn more about travelling to Morocco during Ramadan here.
International Nomads Festival
Held in the remote Saharan village of M'Hamid El Ghizlane, this three-day festival is a captivating celebration of the region’s nomadic culture. It typically takes place towards the end of the month and draws visitors from far and wide to discover the work of local musicians, dancers, writers and craftspeople. Throughout the event, educational workshops and lectures showcase the history, beliefs and daily lives of the Saharan nomads, fostering a deeper appreciation for their unique way of life. No celebration of nomadic culture would be complete without an abundance of authentic regional cuisine, from aromatic tagines and couscous dishes to sweet mint tea and freshly baked flatbreads.
Combine your visit to the International Nomads Festival with a night in a desert camp in the dunes of Erg Chigaga.
Visiting Morocco in March
Where to go in Morocco in March
March is an excellent time to visit Morocco's Atlantic coast, where the weather is warm and pleasant with little to no rainfall. In addition to the charming seaside town of Essaouira, known for its bustling fishing harbour and lively arts scene, consider heading further south to laid-back Sidi Ifni to discover its Spanish colonial architecture. The mild temperatures at this time of year make it an ideal opportunity to stroll along the windswept beaches and sample the locally caught seafood that is a specialty of the region.
Beyond the coast, March is also a prime time to explore the stunning mountain landscapes of Morocco, including the Rif Mountains in the north and the High Atlas range in the centre of the country. The gorges of Dades and Todra are both magnificent after the rain and can easily be combined with a visit to Ait Benhaddou. While hikers should be prepared for the possibility of some rain, the spring wildflowers that bloom at this time of year add a whimsical touch to the already breathtaking scenery. Those venturing into the High Atlas may encounter snow at the higher elevations, with skiing still possible at Oukaïmeden and Michlifen.
If you’re thinking about heading inland to the Sahara Desert, March is a particularly appealing time to visit as the weather is deliciously mild and the crowds of summer tourists have not yet arrived. Just be sure to pack warm clothing for the evenings, as the desert nights can still be quite chilly.
This two-week itinerary from Essaouira is a perfect option for March visitors who want to explore on a self-driving trip.
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