Is October a good time to visit Essaouira? October is a wonderful time to explore Essaouira (dare I say the BEST month to visit Essaouira), with pleasant temperatures, reduced winds and minimal crowds. A couple of months out from summer, the daytime highs dip to the mid-20s C (high-70s F) and the strong winds that Essaouira is famous for tend to calm down.
One of the best reasons to visit Essaouira in October is the chance to experience a more genuine side of this artistic destination. With fewer tourists around, you have the opportunity to connect with locals, engage in conversations with shopkeepers and gain a richer understanding of what makes Essaouira truly unique.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Essaouira in October, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Essaouira in October to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in October here.
For more information about visiting Morocco's "Windy City", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Essaouira.
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Essaouira weather in October
In October, Essaouira experiences really pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs around 24°C (75°F) and nighttime lows around 17°C (68°F). This is absolutely perfect for sightseeing in the medina and exploring the surrounding countryside while still being warm enough to enjoy a lazy day at the beach.
If you’re visiting Essaouira in October, you can expect bright, sunny days and only occasional rainfall on a couple of days during the month. While sea temperatures are still warm following the summer season, it’s important to remember that this is the Atlantic Ocean, so expect around 20°C (71°F).
October is known for being one of the calmer months in the "Windy City," but that doesn't imply there's no wind at all! It simply indicates that the wind speeds are usually a bit milder compared to other times of the year. Kitesurfers and windsurfers take note!
Visiting Essaouira in October
Is October a busy time in Essaouira?
As the European school holidays are well and truly wrapped up and the summer season has come to a close, October is a relatively quiet time in Essaouira. This makes it an ideal opportunity to holiday in the coastal city if you're looking to soak up the warm weather and enjoy a swim at the beach, without competing for space.
With fewer tourists around, you might find accommodation prices a bit lower and you will probably have the flexibility to walk into restaurants without needing a reservation. Many European countries have a half-term school break towards the end of October, which can lead to an uptick in visitors during the final week of the month.
What’s on in Essaouira in October
MOGA Electronic Music Festival
Taking place in Essaouira each year, this annual festival celebrates electronic music and digital arts. It features a diverse lineup of talented artists from Morocco and the wider Maghreb area. Attendees can expect energised live performances, mesmerising audiovisual displays and engaging multimedia experiences that blend innovative technology with the region's deep cultural roots.
Atlantic Andalusia Festival
This beloved festival unites a diverse array of artists from all over Morocco through exhibitions that showcase the rich artistic heritage of the country. There's everything from paintings and crafts to innovative multimedia displays. Additionally, the festival includes concerts that blend various international musical styles, with performances like flamenco ballets that intertwine Moroccan and Spanish cultural influences.
Is October a good time to visit Essaouira?
Best things to do in Essaouira in October
Essaouira is famous for its whitewashed medina, which has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a delightful place to wander, especially when the weather is as pleasant as it is in October. During your explorations, you’ll discover artisan shops, art galleries and beautifully preserved buildings, along with eclectic cafes that are perfect for people-watching. Additionally, the city boasts several intriguing museums that explore both cultural history and contemporary art.
For seafood enthusiasts, a visit to the Essaouira port for lunch is essential. You can select your fish and have it grilled at one of the nearby barbecue stalls, which also provide a Moroccan salad and fresh bread to accompany your meal. Later in the day, make your way to the Skala de la Kasbah, an 18th-century coastal fortress that boasts incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular spot for watching the sunset and capturing photographs in the warm glow.
Essaouira is notorious for its windy weather, drawing in kitesurfers and windsurfers from far and wide. While October usually sees a slight dip in wind speeds (and isn't the best month for those who are serious about their watersports), there’s still enough movement to enjoy some time on the water. If you're new to kitesurfing and windsurfing, you'll find numerous shops offering gear rentals and lessons to help you get started.
If you want to explore beyond the medina and the beach, Essaouira offers a variety of day trips and tours, including excursions to nearby markets and villages. October is a particularly good time for hikes through the argan-dotted countryside that surrounds the city, with the opportunity to connect with locals along the way. Keep in mind that temperatures usually rise as you venture inland, so plan your activities accordingly.
Is October a good time to visit Essaouira?
Is October a good time to visit Essaouira?
In my view, October is an excellent time to visit Essaouira, especially since the sweltering heat and busy crowds of summer have faded away. The weather is pleasantly warm with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for wandering through the medina, relaxing on the beach and exploring the surrounding countryside. Additionally, October is outside the peak tourist season, allowing you to enjoy a more genuine and relaxed atmosphere without the hassle of large crowds.
Despite being dubbed the "Windy City of Africa", Essaouira in October is a bit of an anomaly with its (comparatively) calm conditions. This makes it the perfect time to visit if you’re someone who feels frazzled in the wind (like me!). If you’re coming to kitesurf or windsurf, it might not be the best month to hit the water, particularly if you’re craving thrilling wind speeds.
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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.