March is one of the best months to visit Morocco because it’s the beginning of spring, which means the weather is great and there aren’t many tourists around. Use this monthly guide to find out more about where to go and what to do.
The weather
In Morocco, spring arrives early. Beginning in March, the mild winter gives way to the warmer months. The good news is that the weather is generally nice (highs in the low seventies in Marrakech, with an average temperature in the mid-sixties; northern places like Fez and Tangier have slightly lower temperatures). Precipitation is a drawback. You should bring an umbrella with you since March is one of the wettest months in Morocco, excluding the coast.
On the plus side, though, the rain gives Morocco’s landscapes a vibrant quality. Almost everywhere you go in the second half of the month and into April will be bright green.
Costs & Crowds
March is a wonderful season to visit Morocco in terms of visitor numbers. As winter gives way to spring, most popular places witness an increase in tourists, but it’s nothing compared to the next peak season, when you may enjoy seeing the towns, mountains, and desert without large crowds. However, be advised that if Easter falls in March, large numbers of holidaymakers will be present in large cities and at attractions that are easily accessible to visitors arriving for the weekend.
Where to Go
March is a great season to visit Morocco’s Atlantic coast, where temperatures are pleasant and there is little to no rain. Popular sites include Essaouira and Sidi Ifni.
It’s also a perfect time to explore the Sahara Desert without too many tourists around, and to go hiking in the Rif Mountains or High Atlas Mountains, provided you’re ready for the risk of rain.
How to Proceed
Bring warm clothes so you can stay toasty by the campfire while you set up camp in the Sahara and enjoy a sunset camel ride. Alternatively, arrange a hiking trip across the High Atlas or Rif Mountains. Get off the usual road and discover some of Morocco’s lesser-known paths and Berber communities, provided you have the right equipment (you could see snow at higher levels).
March is also a great month to visit the northern imperial cities for cultural touring because there aren’t many tourists and you won’t find major crowds at popular attractions.
March Occasions
Festival of International Nomads. This three-day celebration honors nomadic culture and is held in the isolated Saharan community of M’Hamid El Ghizlane. Local poets, musicians, dancers, and artisans will be performing outside, along with traditional cuisine and educational seminars. Although the exact date varies, the celebration takes place toward the conclusion of the month.
Biennale de Marrakech. Every alternate year, Marrakech hosts a modern art fair that takes over the entire month of March. It’s a popular location for tourists and art fans alike, offering a variety of exhibitions and installations showcasing Moroccan and worldwide artists. Sadly, a lack of funds forced the cancellation of the 2018 edition; nevertheless, preparations are on for the 2020 event.
Are you visiting Morocco in March? Take a look at these fantastic routes.
Morocco Grand Tour: Coastal Towns & Imperial Cities, Departing from Rabat. This nine-day itinerary, which begins in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, is a perfect way to take advantage of the fantastic weather that Morocco has to offer in March. The itinerary includes stops to the Rif Mountains, the blue city of Chefchaouen, bustling Marrakech, historic Fes, and a beach break in Essaouira, among other coastal cities.
Hiking, the Coast, Grand Desert Tour, and Marrakech. Enjoying delicious seafood and ocean breezes are just a couple of the benefits of this ten-day program, which also includes climbing in the Atlas Mountains, stargazing in the Sahara, and spending the night with a Berber family.
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