In my opinion, November is an underrated time to visit Morocco. After the exhausting heat of the summer months, this North African nation becomes an enticing destination for travellers seeking to escape the chill of winter. Travelling to Morocco in November means comfortable, sunny days perfect for immersing yourself in the country’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
One of the major draws of travelling to Morocco in November is the lack of crowds. The peak tourist season typically runs from June through September, leaving the latter part of the year blissfully quiet. This allows you to wander the labyrinthine alleyways of Morocco’s ancient medinas and browse the colourful souks, without having to compete with lots of other people.
For those with an interest in visiting the Sahara Desert, November offers an ideal window, with mild, sunny days ideal for exploring the undulating dunes. Camel trekking, camping under a blanket of stars and witnessing the desert’s mesmersing play of light and shadow are all made infinitely more comfortable and enjoyable in this temperate season. The trekking trails of the Atlas Mountains are also appealing, with the added bonus of encountering snow at the higher altitudes. And for surfers, the Atlantic swells are firing up as the peak winter season kicks off.
Read on to discover what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in November, from weather to events and where to visit.
Travelling to Morocco in November
Weather in Morocco in November
As November arrives in Morocco, the country is beginning to make the transition from autumn to winter. The air takes on a distinct chill, signalling the imminent arrival of the cooler months ahead. While pockets of warmth can still be found, with daytime temperatures occasionally reaching as high as 27°C (80°F) in some areas, the overall trend is a steadily dropping mercury. In most regions, temperatures now hover in the comfortable range of 18 to 23°C (64 to 73°F), although it can be more brisk along the coastline. In the northern cities of Fes and Chefchaouen, the nights can be particularly chilly, so be sure to bring warm layers.
November in Morocco also ushers in a fair amount of rainfall, with precipitation expected on around nine days out of the month. Even the famously sun-drenched Marrakech experiences a few rainy days in November. Travellers should be mindful that the combination of heavy rains and Morocco's varied topography can sometimes lead to the formation of dangerous flash floods, especially when storms arrive unexpectedly.
Visiting Morocco in November
Is November a popular time to visit Morocco?
With the peak tourist season well and truly over, visiting Morocco in November means that prices begin to drop significantly across the country. Fewer visitors are travelling as the temperatures decrease, meaning the demand for accommodation, transportation and other services is alleviated. As a result, you can often score some great deals on hotels and tours during this period, as well as explore some of Morocco’s most iconic destinations with more space and flexibility.
Travelling to Morocco in November
Festivals and events in Morocco in November
Moroccan Independence Day
Each year on November 18, the Kingdom of Morocco celebrates its independence from French colonial rule. This national holiday, known as Fête de l'Indépendance, is a vibrant and joyous occasion marked by lively parades with traditional music, dance and costumed performers. Neighbourhoods host patriotic celebrations, with families and friends gathering for a shared meal while enjoying the day off school and work.
International Film Festival of Marrakech
Typically held from the end of November through the first week of December, this cinematic festival draws filmmakers, actors and movie enthusiasts from across the globe to Morocco's cultural capital. The streets and squares of Marrakech come alive as directors debut their latest works, with screenings taking place inside theatres and open-air venues throughout the city. Beyond the film screenings, the festival also features engaging panel discussions, master classes and networking events that provide invaluable opportunities for filmmakers to connect, collaborate and share their creative visions.
Visiting Morocco in November
Where to go in Morocco in November
With the heat of the summer months well and truly subsided, the Sahara Desert is wonderful in November. The temperatures are ideal for camel trekking through the dunes and participating in other outdoor activities in the gorges and valleys near Ouarzazate. While the days are generally sunny and comfortable, it's important to pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly after the sun sets.
November in Morocco is also ideal for exploring the Rif and Atlas Mountain ranges, where hikers can immerse themselves in the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes. It’s a great time to hike to the summit of Mount Toubkal if you’re prepared for snowy conditions, although there are plenty of other hikes at lower altitudes that don’t require crampons. While Chefchaouen can be chilly, the fireplaces in many of the local riads offer welcome warmth after a day spent hiking through the rugged surroundings.
Beyond the natural wonders, November is also an excellent time to visit Morocco's imperial cities, as they are far less crowded with tourists compared to the peak summer months. In Fes, the slightly increased rainfall is more than made up for by the ability to wander the ancient medina at a leisurely pace, without jostling through hordes of fellow sightseers. Marrakech is also an inviting destination in November, with the lack of crowds allowing you to fully appreciate its historic and cultural wonders.
The temperatures along Morocco’s Atlantic coastline might not be ideal for swimming and sunbathing but the surf season is really kicking off in November. Taghazout becomes a buzz of activity as surfers arrive from Europe and beyond to take on legendary breaks like Anchor Point. For a quieter surf experience, head south to the beaches around Mirleft and Sidi Ifni.
With the south of Morocco warmer than the north in November, those chasing the sun should focus their explorations on the bottom half of the country. This one-week itinerary from Marrakech to Agadir is ideal for those who are self-driving and includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou. If you have more time, consider this two-week itinerary from Essaouira, which includes a scenic drive through the little-visited Drâa Valley.
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