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Writer's pictureMalika

Visiting Marrakech in February: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do

Updated: 3 days ago

Is February a good time to visit Marrakech? In my opinion, February is an amazing time to visit Marrakech! The weather is pleasantly mild, with average daytime highs around 20°C (upper 60s Fahrenheit) and that perfect combination between gloriously sunny days and chilly nights. The city's red clay architecture contrasts strikingly with the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains - the cityscape at this time is particularly enchanting. 


February is an ideal month for exploring Marrakech's labyrinthine medina, as the comfortable temperatures make it easy to wander for hours and shop in the souks without dripping with sweat. While the city is a popular year-round destination, February in Marrakech is comparatively quiet, with most people now back at work following the Christmas/New Year’s break. This means you’ll have more room to move at the city’s most famous sights and won’t have to be so organised with restaurant reservations. 


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


Planning a longer Moroccan winter escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in February here.


For more information about exploring the "Red City", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech.


Is February a good time to visit Marrakech?

Djemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech at night

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Marrakech weather in February


In February, Marrakech experiences blissfully mild weather, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. During the day, temperatures hover around 20°C (high 60s F), with clear skies and plenty of sunshine bathing the city. While the mornings can be crisp, things warm up considerably by the afternoon, allowing you to get around without having to layer up. 


As the sun sets, however, temperatures can drop quickly, with average nighttime lows around 8°C (46°F) in February in Marrakech. I’d highly recommend bringing warm layers, such as a jumper or coat, to wear while walking to and from dinner or hanging out in Djemaa el-Fnaa after dark. It’s also worth bringing a light waterproof jacket as the city does experience a few days of rainfall in February. 


Top tip: If I’m visiting Marrakech in the winter months, I always book into a riad with a fireplace as I love cosying up beside them. Riad Mur Akush, Riad Safa and Riad Azzar are all good choices - it may just be hard to drag yourself away from the heat to head out at night!


Visiting Marrakech in February

An elegant lounge at a Marrakech riad

One of the lounges at Riad Safa, one of the many Marrakech riads with a fireplace (photo courtesy of Expedia)


Is February a busy time in Marrakech?


I wouldn’t say Marrakech is ever “crowd-free” (it’s one of Morocco’s most popular tourist destinations) but there’s definitely a bit of respite in February. Most people have returned to work following the Christmas/New Year’s break, including those coming from Southern Hemisphere destinations like Australia and New Zealand (which have their long annual holidays over January). That being said, some European schools have a mid-term break in February, leading to a small increase in families visiting Marrakech.


Not only does this mean there’s more room to move at the city’s most popular attractions but you can also score some good deals on flights and accommodation. Many Marrakech riads will drop their rates slightly due to reduced demand, although I’d still recommend booking early to secure a room at your riad of choice. All in all, Marrakech in February is ideal for a budget holiday in Morocco for those who want bang for their buck. 


Visiting Marrakech in February

Admiring Koutoubia Mosque is one of the best things to do in Marrakech in February

What’s on in Marrakech in February


Marrakech International Storytelling Festival


While this event hasn’t taken place since 2023, I’m hoping that it will return in the future as it’s one of the best things to do in Marrakech in February. It brings together storytellers from around the globe, each with unique cultural traditions and perspectives to share. The Marrakech International Storytelling Festival takes place in museums and riads across the city, so you get some pretty amazing architecture as your backdrop!


Contemporary African Art Fair


Taking place from January 30 to February 2 2025, this artistic event hosts exhibitions and gatherings at La Mamounia (a 5-star hotel near Koutoubia Mosque) and DaDa Marrakech (a restaurant and arts hub in Djemaa el-Fnaa). It’s a great opportunity to see new works by contemporary artists, both well-known names and emerging creatives. Of the 27 exhibitors at the 2025 Contemporary African Art Fair, eight are based in Morocco, so there’s no shortage of local talent being showcased. 


Best things to do in Marrakech in February

A black and white portrait on an ochre building in Marrakech


Best things to do in Marrakech in February


With its enviable daytime temperatures and relatively dry weather, February in Marrakech is ideal for the city’s most quintessential experience - getting lost in the medina. Simply strolling through the winding streets and browsing the souks is enjoyable thanks to the mild climate and you probably won't find yourself seeking refuge in air conditioning as you might during other seasons. Wandering wherever your curiosity takes you is definitely one of the best things to do in Marrakech in January. 


If you’re travelling to Marrakech in February, I’d recommend visiting some of the city’s big-ticket attractions, such as Palais Bahia, Madrasa Ben Youssef and Koutoubia Mosque. You can wander in the footsteps of Yves Saint Laurent at the Majorelle Gardens before listening to the call to prayer ring out across the city from a rooftop cafe. As the sun goes down, head to the beating heart of Marrakech, Djemaa el-Fnaa, where you'll find snake charmers, storytellers and live musicians. 


February is also the perfect month for taking a hot air balloon ride over Marrakech, as the sunrise is later and the views of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains are divine! If you’re into snow pursuits, you can also make the 77-kilometre drive to Oukaimeden for a day of skiing, although don’t expect the powder (or facilities) of a European ski resort. February is also a good time to embark on a quad biking tour through the Agafay Desert and be treated to a typically Moroccan spa treatment at a hammam.


If you want to stay at a Marrakech riad with a hammam, I have some recommendations here!


Is February a good time to visit Marrakech?

Minarets tower above Marrakech backed by the snow-capped Atlas Mountains

Is February a good time to visit Marrakech?


In my opinion, February is a great month to visit Marrakech, particularly if you want to experience what is an incredibly busy destination at a slightly quieter time of year. The daytime temperatures are mild and perfect for exploring the medina on foot, without the sweltering heat of the late spring and summer months. Just keep in mind that February is still part of the winter season in Marrakech, so while rainfall is generally light, you may encounter some showers during your stay. That being said, the rain usually doesn't last for long and won't prevent you from experiencing the magic and allure of Marrakech in February.


 

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About the author


Photo of the author - Malika in Morocco

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. 

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