Climate and Clothing

Climate

It’s hot and sunny for most of the year in Morocco. During the peak summer months it gets uncomfortably hot especially in Marrakech, Fes and southwest Morocco, towards the desert. Casablanca, Rabat and Essaouira are a bit more comfortable in the peak of summer because they benefit from a cooler ocean breeze.

Spring tends to come late (April or May) and this is the season to visit Rose Valley (Kelaa Mgouna) and the Rose Festival.

Summer tends to come (From June, July to August).

Autumn tends to come (From September to October).

Winter tends to come (From November, December, January, to February).

Published annual sunshine levels are more than 8hrs a day in Fes, Marrakech and Ouarzazate with average temperatures above 21° C

Clothing

Dress respectfully if you do not wish to attract undue attention. In summer, loose clothing is comfortable in the heat and when travelling. In spring & autumn, a warm fleece is needed for chilly evenings, and in winter, warm clothing is essential. In large cities such as Casablanca ,Rabat , Marrakech, Fes or Agadir, Moroccans dress as fashionably as they would on High Street in Europe although, in contrast, you will also see women traditionally dressed in “ derra “ (hood like scarf that covers all hair and is tied under chin) and “ jellaba” (long-sleeved, ankle-length, flowing dress). In rural areas women usually wear traditional clothes and you are encouraged to dress more conservatively when touring. Although there is no need to overdo the dress code, and it’s unnecessary to wear a scarf or veil, short skirts and tight clothes are likely to attract more attention than you may feel comfortable with.