Is July a good time to visit Marrakech? In my opinion, no! But that’s because I’m not a fan of the heat. July in Marrakech is scorching hot (the mercury often rises above 40°C (104°F), making it hard to do a full day’s sightseeing without getting completely worn out. You’d think that the heat keeps tourists at bay, but Marrakech is still quite busy in July due to the European, North American and Moroccan summer vacations.
Having said all of that, I don’t want to suggest that July in Marrakech isn’t for everyone. Some people love the heat and the buzz of the crowds, and Marrakech certainly has an energised vibe in the evenings. After everyone has retreated to the cool of their homes and hotels during the late afternoon, they reemerge to rediscover the city after dark. It really is a wonderful atmosphere! Plus, there are plenty of day trips available into the Atlas Mountains, which enjoy much milder temperatures in July.
For many people, July is the only time they can take holidays and if this is you, I think there are definitely ways to enjoy Marrakech, despite the heat. You just need to be strategic about your sightseeing and plan your days around the weather so you don’t overheat. My top tip for visiting Marrakech in July is to book a riad with a swimming pool - you won't regret it!
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Marrakech in July, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Marrakech in July to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan summer escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in July here.
For more information about exploring the "Red City", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech.
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Marrakech weather in July
Marrakech in July is HOT, with soaring temperatures that can reach up to (and beyond) 40°C (104°F) during the day. The scorching, dry weather creates an atmosphere that is quintessentially North African, with the sun-baked streets and buildings radiating warmth late into the evening.
If you’re visiting Marrakech in July, it’s really important to stay hydrated and seek refuge in shaded spots during the heat of the day. I’d suggest heading out early in the morning for sightseeing in the medina before returning to your riad for a siesta during the afternoon. Whenever I visit Marrakech in July, I always book a riad with a swimming pool where I can refresh with a swim in the afternoon - there are some amazing Marrakech riads with pools here.
The warm July evenings are when Marrakech really comes alive, with locals and tourists alike emerging from their late-afternoon hibernation to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. Temperatures cool down to around 21°C (70°F), which is much more comfortable for shopping in the souks than during the daytime.
Visiting Marrakech in July can be a fantastic experience, as long as you are organised with your sightseeing and avoid cramming too many activities into your schedule.
Is July a good time to visit Marrakech?
Is July a busy time in Marrakech?
Despite the heat, July is still a busy month in Marrakech, as the peak travel season is in full swing. Tourists from across Europe and North America are on their annual summer vacation while Southern Hemisphere residents are heading north to escape the cold back home. As a result, Marrakech can feel crowded but the city has a real buzz about it.
That being said, it's not as busy as the shoulder seasons of May and September, and there can be a small dip in accommodation prices during July in Marrakech. Popular attractions like the Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque and Jardin Majorelle are still relatively busy, particularly in the early morning when everyone's trying to beat the heat. On the upside, July's hot, sunny days give way to pleasantly warm evenings, perfect for exploring the energetic Djemaa el-Fnaa square and experiencing the city's pulsing nightlife.
Is July a good time to visit Marrakech?
What’s on in Marrakech in July
Feast of the Throne
Every year on July 30, the Feast of the Throne celebrates the anniversary of King Mohammed VI's rise to the throne. On this day, government offices, banks and many businesses shut their doors, giving people the chance to spend time with family and friends in tribute to their king. While the main festivities take place at the Royal Palace in Rabat where the king addresses the nation, you can also expect military parades and air shows across the country.
Marrakech Popular Arts Festival
Every year, Marrakech hosts this incredible festival, which brings together a wide variety of entertainers and artists from around the world. Alongside fire-swallowers, storytellers and singers, attendees can enjoy thrilling acrobatic shows and traditional Moroccan craftspeople displaying their skills. The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival takes place in various locations throughout the city, with the ruins of El Badi Palace serving as a backdrop for theatrical shows and equestrian performances.
Visiting Marrakech in July
Best things to do in Marrakech in July
Because of the heat in Marrakech in July, it's important to plan your sightseeing wisely to steer clear of the hottest parts of the day. I’d suggest starting your adventures early to explore some of the city's architectural sites, like the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs and Madrasa Ben Youssef. Once temperatures begin to rise, head to Le Jardin Secret or Jardin Majorelle where the greenery helps to keep things cool or take a break indoors at the Dar Si Said Museum or Dar El Bacha, both of which are among the best museums in Marrakech.
During the hottest part of the day, consider heading back to your riad for a refreshing swim in the pool or maybe a siesta in the air conditioning. Alternatively, you can opt for a day pass to the pool at Le Jardin in the luxurious Royal Mansour, one of Marrakech's finest hotels. In my opinion, lazing on a sun lounger beside the sparkling waters of a pool is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Marrakech in July.
As evening falls, you can reemerge and head to Djemaa el-Fnaa for dinner, accompanied by performances from snake charmers, street artists and musicians. If you'd rather take in all the action from a distance, you can grab a mint tea at Le Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier, which is known for having one of the best views of the square. Some of Marrakech’s souks also stay open late during the summer months to take advantage of the evening foot traffic.
When the heat and hustle of Marrakech become overwhelming, consider a day trip to the beautiful Ourika Valley or joining a 5 Valleys Tour from Marrakech. Both take in charming Amazigh villages and spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains, plus the temperatures are significantly cooler in this elevated setting. Alternatively, you can explore the magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls, which tumble 110 metres over a cliff face - you might even catch a glimpse of Barbary macaques in the surrounding forest.
Another popular way to escape the heat in Marrakech is by taking a trip to the coast and visiting the picturesque city of Essaouira. You can spend a day meandering through its whitewashed medina, which provides a more tranquil atmosphere than Marrakech and is much cooler due to the ocean breezes. Be sure to check out Essaouira's art galleries and craft boutiques, and treat yourself to some fresh sardines at the port. Essaouira also boasts a long sweep of sand where you can swim, surf or learn to kitesurf.
Is July a good time to visit Marrakech?
Is July a good time to visit Marrakech?
The answer to this question largely depends on your tolerance for extreme heat. July falls right in the middle of Marrakech's scorching summer season, with daytime temperatures routinely soaring above 40°C (104°F). The oppressive heat can make sightseeing a challenge for some and you may find yourself seeking refuge in the shade or cool interiors after just a short time outdoors.
Surprisingly, the stifling weather doesn't deter the throngs of tourists who descend upon the city in July, as this coincides with the peak summer holiday period in Europe, North America and Morocco itself. The bustling crowds add to the lively, energetic atmosphere, especially in the evenings when people emerge from their siestas to enjoy the cooler night air.
Ultimately, while July may not be the most comfortable time to visit Marrakech weather-wise, it's still possible to have an enjoyable experience if you plan your days strategically around the heat.
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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.