March in Morocco marks the beginning of springtime, making it a delightful time to explore this enchanting country. The weather is relatively mild, and the landscapes are painted with colorful blooms.
The Sahara Desert in Morocco
As the temperatures start to increase in March, this also marks the beginning of the peak tourist season throughout Morocco. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect in Morocco during this transitional month, covering weather conditions, popular destinations, and essential travel tips.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
March is a captivating time to explore the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of Morocco. In March, you'll find yourself in a unique travel window that offers both delightful weather and a manageable crowd. While it's not the peak tourist season, the country begins to awaken from its winter slumber. Travelers seeking a more tranquil experience will appreciate the moderate crowds, allowing them to explore the wonders of Morocco at a leisurely pace.
March in Morocco is a season of transition, where winter fades, and spring emerges, painting the landscapes with colorful blooms. There is something truly magical about springtime in Morocco. Trees and flowers are budding and greening, and nature lovers will find March to be an enjoyable time to explore the countryside.
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Weather Conditions in Morocco in March
March in Morocco is a month of transition, with a range of weather conditions across the country. The temperature in Morocco in March grow warmer during the day, with average daytime temperatures of 20°C to 24°C, depending on the area of the country you visit. The weather can vary a lot from one region to another.
Morocco’s geography means there’s different weather around the country, with coastal spots mainly having Mediterranean conditions. In March, the days in Morocco start to get longer than the nights, with an average of 8 hours of sun a day, and there are approximately 8 rainy days in the month. In March, the humidity also drops in most cities, with the exception of mountainous areas like Chefchaouen and coastal areas like Casablanca, which are relatively humid all year round.
Regional Weather Details
- Coastal Cities: Easily accessible by train, bus, or car.
- Desert Travel: Plan for long drives and prepare for significant temperature fluctuations.
Here's a breakdown of the weather conditions in different regions:
- Northern Morocco (Tangier): Comfortably mild climate with daytime highs of 16°C to 19°C.
- Central Morocco (Marrakech): Daytime highs around 20°C to 23°C.
- The Atlas Mountains: At lower elevations, daytime highs range from 15°C to 19°C, while higher altitudes might see cooler temperatures.
- Southern Morocco (Agadir, Sahara Desert): Warmer weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 19°C to 25°C.
Remember Marrakech in March will be different than Fez in March - temperatures across the country will vary quite a bit. If traveling in the Atlas or Rif Mountains in March, it is still possible to run into snow. A visit to the Sahara desert may surprise you with the extreme difference in daytime and nighttime temperatures. When traveling to Morocco, it is important to remember that daytime and nighttime temperatures can vary a great deal throughout most of the year.
Detailed Conditions by Location
- Casablanca: Enjoys mild temperatures in March, with gradually warming days and cooler nights.
- Tangier: Experiences mild and increasingly warm temperatures.
- Agadir: Sees warmer weather in March with pleasant daytime temperatures.
- Fes: Experiences mild temperatures with cool nights.
- Marrakech: Enjoys warm days and cooler nights.
- Meknes: Experiences mild daytime temperatures with cooler nights.
- High Atlas Mountains: Remain cold in March, with potential snowfall at higher elevations.
- Middle Atlas Mountains: Are cooler than the lowlands with occasional snowfall.
- Merzouga: Experiences warm daytime temperatures with significant cooling at night.
- Zagora: Similar to Merzouga, with warm days and cooler nights.
The typical high temperature in Agadir during March is 21ºC, although this falls to 11ºC at night so bring some warmer clothes for the evenings. Sea temperatures are around 17ºC, while humidity’s low. Average rainfall’s 25mm over four rainy days, and you can look forward to 12 hours of daylight with eight hours of sunshine each day. UV levels will be high so don’t forget the sun cream, and sunset’s around 6.40pm at the start of March.
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What to Pack for Morocco in March
If you are planning a visit to Morocco in March, be sure to come prepared with a variety of clothing. The weather begins to warm in March throughout the country, so unless you are traveling into the mountains, you can probably leave your heavy jacket at home by March. During the day, you are likely to be comfortable in slacks or jeans or even Capri-length pants. Short sleeve or lightweight long-sleeve shirts are nice to have on during the day (especially one layered over the other). Sunglasses are always a plus - to protect your eyes from the sun, and hats or scarves to protect your head can be nice, too. If you plan to visit the mountains, you may still want to consider some thermals or long johns for those cold nights.
- Layering: Layer your clothing to accommodate temperature changes throughout the day.
- Sun Protection: The sun can be strong, particularly in desert regions.
Must-Visit Destinations in Morocco in March
With so many of Morocco's destinations ideal to visit in March, it can be hard to choose. If you already know what you'd like to do during your time in Morocco, but need some help organizing your vacation, please let us know what your requirements are, and when you're looking to go.
Fes el Bali
Fez
Located approximately 170 km from the capital city of Rabat, Fez is the oldest surviving medieval city in the world. Morocco's top tourist destination is a great place to visit in March, as the temperatures reach up to around 24°C (75°F), making for a comfortable temperature to wander around with lots of sun during the day. No visit to Fez would be complete without spending time in the oldest and largest Medina in North Africa, Fes el-Bali. This incredible market is made up of 9,400 winding paths too narrow and full of foot traffic to allow for cars. You will find everything in this market, from mosques and Islamic schools to areas filled with spices and fresh meat. There is one whole square dedicated to making and selling Smen, a fermented butter used in Moroccan cooking, especially couscous. And the oldest university in the world - University of Al-Karaouine can be found there, too, if you know where to look. Sights to see include the Medina of Fez, which is comprised of approximately 4,900 alleys. This is where you'll see lots of pottery and copper workshops, leather production workshops, and cloth dying shops. As well as artisan shops they also have local food stalls to try popular Moroccan snacks. Not far from Fez you will also find Meknes, which makes for a great additional stop if you have a few more days in the area.
Essaouira
Essaouira, a historically important harbor city, is a great stop in Morocco in March. During your time in Essaouira, we recommend visiting the arts and crafts workshops and shops in the medina, and finding some time to go kitesurfing or windsurfing if you're up for the adventure!
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Tetouan
Located a few miles south of the Strait of Gibraltar, Tetouan is one of the two major Moroccan ports on the Mediterranean Sea. This charming city is a must-see for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of traditional Moroccan architecture and culture. In Tetouan, the exquisite beauty of Moroccan culture can be seen around every corner. But for visitors who want to truly immerse themselves, a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Tetouan is definitely in order. You’ll see pottery, prehistoric tools, and more, as well as an amazing library.
Chefchaouen
If you want to see one of the most picturesque locations in Morocco, take a day trip to Chefchaouen. This holy city is home to around 20 mosques and sanctuaries and thousands of Muslims make a pilgrimage to Chefchaouen every year. In the medina, buildings are painted blue and white, and the beauty is simply indescribable.
Chefchaouen
Oujda
Oujda is the largest city in eastern Morocco and found near the border of Algeria. Once a popular location for tourists, it has fallen off tourist radar in recent years. Although Oujda’s Medina is not very big, it is an amazing place to visit.
M’Hamid El Ghizlane
If you have dreamed of exploring the Sahara desert, the small oasis village of M’Hamid El Ghizlane is a great place to start. M’Hamid is definitely a bit off the beaten path, and has been referred to as the place where civilization ends. No trip to M’Hamid El Ghizlane is complete without spending at least one night out in the Sahara desert. There are several tours out of M’Hamid to choose from, with travel options ranging from a three-day camel ride to Erg Ezahar to driving out in a 4×4 vehicle to Erg Chigaga, the largest sand sea in Morocco. No matter how you get there, spending the night under a blanket of stars in the beautiful Sahara is an experience of a lifetime. If you are in M’Hamid on a Monday morning, be sure to check out the small Monday Souq.
Hiking Destinations
March is also a good time for hiking in the mountains, with mild temperatures, though cooler in the hills. The most popular hiking destinations, 45 minutes from Chefchaouen, are the Akchour Waterfalls and God's Bridge.
Tips for Traveling to Morocco in March
If you are looking to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, March is a perfect time of the year. Coastal temperatures along the Mediterranean and Atlantic are lovely, and the sun is beckoning. Head inland from the Mediterranean and spend some time hiking in the beautiful green Rif Mountains. Morocco is rich in history and beauty. Wherever you land, be sure to spend some time in the local medina where you can enjoy traditional foods and crafts of all varieties. Drink in ancient architecture against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains or watch surfers show off their skills riding the waves.
Cultural Considerations
In 2024 and 2025 Ramadan will fall during the month of March. This is a major holiday in the Islamic calendar. People should be prepared for changes in schedules and to be a bit more conservative than normal. Most Moroccans spend the month fasting and there is a greater focus on prayer and faith. During Ramadan, Muslims in Morocco will fast from sunrise until sunset, with restaurants in predominantly Muslim areas closed during the day as a result. It is still a great time of year to visit Morocco, you'll just have to be mindful of the fact that those who are Muslim do not eat and drink in the day, and that you are better off planning ahead (calling restaurants to make sure they're serving food, or checking that the smaller, local museums are open).
Additional Tips
- Bargain in the souks: One of the joys of visiting Morocco is exploring the vibrant and bustling markets known as "souks." While shopping in the souks, it's customary to haggle over prices. Bargaining is expected and can be a fun and interactive way to purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products.
- Learn basic Arabic phrases: Locals often appreciate when tourists make an effort to communicate in their language. Common phrases like "Salam alaykum" (peace be upon you) for greetings, "Shukran" (thank you), and "La, shukran" (no, thank you) can go a long way in establishing friendly interactions.
- Explore Morocco’s diverse regions: Morocco is a diverse country with a rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures. In March, take the opportunity to explore its diverse regions.
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Events and Activities in March
March is an exciting time for adventure enthusiasts exploring the Atlas Mountains. Whether you're hiking or simply enjoying the mountain vistas, March offers an enticing mix of conditions. Here are several fantastic options to consider during your visit:
- Casablanca International Book Fair (Salon International de l'Édition et du Livre): March is an ideal time for literature enthusiasts to visit Morocco. The Casablanca International Book Fair is an annual event that attracts authors, publishers, and book lovers from around the world. It's an opportunity to explore Moroccan and international literature.
- Spring equinox: Celebrate the arrival of spring on the Spring Equinox in March. Morocco's lush yards and historic sites provide a beautiful backdrop for welcoming the new season. Enjoy picnics, cultural events, and the blossoming landscapes.
- Moroccan mint tea: Indulge in the quintessential Moroccan experience by sipping on sweet and refreshing Moroccan mint tea. Attend performances that showcase traditional Andalusian music, which blends Arab, Spanish, and North African influences.
- Stargazing: Morocco's vast deserts, like the Sahara, provide exceptional opportunities for stargazing. Riding camels along the dunes as the sun sets over the desert creates a captivating and serene experience.
- Explore Marrakech: Marrakech, known for its vibrant markets, historic palaces, and enchanting yards, is a must-visit city in Morocco. Explore the medina, visit the Bahia Palace, and lose yourself in the bustling streets of this captivating city.
- International Nomads Festival: Mid-March (dates vary) - Located approximately 98 kms south of Zagora is the small village of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the home of the International Nomads Festival. The three day festival takes place in March every year, and is a great way to learn all about the nomadic culture in Morocco. Attend conferences to learn about a variety of things from sculpture to agriculture, and enjoy various forms of art and expression from local, regional, and international artists.
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