Visiting Marrakech in October: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do
- Malika
- Feb 19
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 1
Is October a good time to visit Marrakech? With the scorching heat of summer well and truly over, making way for idyllic temps, October can be an incredible time to visit Marrakech. The autumn climate is absolutely perfect for sightseeing, with warm, sunny days, and the cool nights see riad fireplaces getting their first post-summer illumination.
In October, the intensity of the sun softens, casting a gentler light that seems to bring out the warm ochre tones of the medina's ancient walls. October is a great time for photographers to visit Marrakech!
October sits squarely in what was once the “shoulder season”, although I’d suggest that is no longer an accurate description. As tourist numbers have swelled in the city and travellers seek to avoid Marrakech’s notorious summer heat, October is now a peak tourism period.
You can expect crowds at the major tourist attractions and most of the best riads and hotels will book out early. If you’re visiting Marrakech in October, it pays to be organised with your travel plans!
Despite it being such a popular month to visit, I love Marrakech in October. Autumn is my favourite season in general and I think the temperatures are idyllic. This is also the ideal time to visit Marrakech if you’re thinking of heading to the Sahara Desert, which is once again comfortable enough to explore after the scorching summer heat.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Marrakech in October, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Marrakech in October 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 October here.
For more information about exploring the "Red City", check out my Essential Travel Guide to Marrakech.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Marrakech weather in October
After the heat of late summer and early autumn, Marrakech in October offers a welcome respite, with temperatures mellowing to an average of 22°C (72°F). The weather strikes a perfect balance between warm, sunny days and cool, refreshing evenings - this is exactly how I like it!
Daytime highs hover around 28°C (82°F) before dipping to a mild 16°C (61°F) in the evenings - I'd suggest bringing a light jacket or jumper for nighttime strolls.
October also sees a slight uptick in rainfall, with an average of 35mm spread throughout the month. But showers are usually brief and quickly give way to clear skies - you could get away without bringing a waterproof if you’re travelling light.
The increased precipitation breathes life into the city's green spaces, making October a particularly wonderful time to explore Marrakech’s famous gardens.
Is October a good time to visit Marrakech?
Is October a busy time in Marrakech?
Yes, October is one of the busiest times of the year in Marrakech, particularly towards the end of the month when European families are on their short school break. Thanks to its pleasant weather, October has established a reputation as a peak travel month in Marrakech. Be prepared for large crowds at the most popular spots and a lively, energetic vibe throughout the city.
The influx of visitors also means that hotel rates and prices for guided tours are often at their highest in October. Book accommodations well in advance for the best selection and rates - if you leave it to the last minute, you’ll have far fewer choices and may end up having to spend a bit more. Despite the slightly higher costs and bigger crowds, October is still a wonderful time to be in the city!
What’s on in Marrakech in October
Marrakech Air Show
This popular event is usually held in late October/early November at the Royal Moroccan Air Force’s military base in Marrakech. It has become a key gathering point in Africa for the aerospace sector, encompassing both military and civilian aspects. With around 300 exhibitors participating, the Marrakech Air Show also attracts more than 100 international military and civil delegations, meaning it’s a big deal!
MOGA Electronic Music Festival
This annual festival takes place in the coastal city of Essaouira (around 2.5 hours’ drive from Marrakech) and celebrates both electronic music and digital arts. It features a diverse lineup of talented artists from Morocco and the wider Maghreb area, as well as a few from further afield. Attendees are treated to live performances, audiovisual displays and engaging multimedia experiences that blend innovative technology with the region's deep cultural roots.
Marathon des Sables
Often referred to as the "Sand Marathon,” this ultramarathon takes participants through the Sahara Desert and is considered one of the toughest foot races in the world. Covering a staggering 250 kilometres (156 miles), it pushes the physical and mental boundaries of even the most experienced endurance athletes. Each year, the course changes, introducing an element of surprise, although the base for the Marathon des Sables is usually in Ouarzazate, just over three hours’ drive from Marrakech.
Visiting Marrakech in October
Best things to do in Marrakech in October
With the summer heat subsiding in Marrakech, the weather in October is ideal for exploring the city's colourful souks, exotic gardens and historical landmarks. I've highlighted some of my favourite Marrakech destinations in this suggested one-day itinerary - it's a great option for visitors who are short on time!
One of the best things to do in Marrakech in October is simply get lost in the maze-like alleys of the medina, where you'll find stalls selling everything from handicrafts to spices, textiles and leather goods.
October is also an ideal time to visit the Saadian Tombs, which date back to a dynasty that ruled Marrakech from 1524 to 1659. The tombs feature several areas, including the ornate Mausoleum of Lalla Massouda with its intricate tilework and calligraphy, and the grand Hall of the 12 Columns with its soaring pillars and arched doorways.
Also not to miss is the magnificent Bahia Palace, which was commissioned in the late 19th century by Ahmed Ben Moussa, grand vizier to Sultan Abdelaziz. This architectural gem sprawls over 8,000 square meters and boasts sumptuously decorated rooms, plus several gorgeous courtyards and gardens.
Just around the corner is one of my favourite museums in Marrakech, the Moroccan Museum of Culinary Art - a visit to its Insta-worthy tea room is a "must". This is also a great place to do a cooking class in Marrakech (you'll find more cooking class recommendations here).
For a change of pace, head to the Palmeraie on the outskirts of the city. This photogenic oasis is home to over 100,000 palm trees and offers a welcome respite from the bustling medina. You can choose to explore via camelback, horseback or quad bike - great for those who are craving a bit of a thrill, without having to venture too far.
No visit to Marrakech in October would be complete without touring its magnificent gardens. Most famous is Jardin Majorelle, which boasts an impressive collection of plants from around the globe. Yves Saint Laurent's ashes are scattered here too.
Le Jardin Secret is another gem, with its serene courtyards, burbling fountains and beautiful plantings. You can also make the short trip outside the city to Anima, a quirky garden conceived by multimedia artist André Heller. Ingredients grown in the grounds are used to create incredible dishes at the onsite Café Paul Bowles.
If you’re using Marrakech as a base to visit the Sahara Desert, October is ideal, with the temperatures much more comfortable than in September and August. If you don't have time to venture all the way to the Sahara, there are some stunning luxury camps in Agafay to choose from. The Atlas Mountains are also easily accessible (before the winter snowfall arrives), meaning you can venture beyond the city to get a broader taste of Morocco.
Is October a good time to visit Marrakech?
Is October a good time to visit Marrakech?
With summer’s intense heat in the (not so) distant past, October is an excellent time to visit Marrakech. You can expect warm days perfect for exploring the medina and cool, crisp evenings that invite you to rug up for nighttime strolls. The autumn light takes on a softer quality, making October a photographer's dream for capturing the city's timeless beauty.
That being said, October can be a busy time in Marrakech and you certainly won’t have the medina to yourself. With this in mind, it pays to plan ahead if you're visiting Marrakech in October - the best riads and hotels often book out well in advance during this peak travel period.
But for those who are organised and are happy to work around the crowds, October in Marrakech promises unforgettable experiences set against a backdrop of picture-perfect autumn weather.
