Last updated: January 18, 2025
Marrakesh-Safi, Morocco, exemplifies a diverse climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BSk, BSh, and Csa. Characterized by arid to semi-arid conditions, the region experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. January sees temperatures plummet to a frigid minimum of -8°C (19°F), while the scorching August can reach an astonishing maximum of 46°C (116°F). The annual average temperature hovers around a mild 17°C (64°F), providing a unique blend of weather experiences that contribute to the region's distinct character and allure.
The temperature patterns in Marrakesh-Safi, Morocco, reveal distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. Winter months such as January and February experience cold nights, with minimum temperatures plummeting to around -8°C (19°F) and -6°C (22°F), while daytime averages remain mild, climbing to approximately 10°C (50°F) and 12°C (54°F), respectively. As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually increase, with daytime averages reaching up to 16°C (60°F) and maximums soaring to 38°C (101°F), highlighting the region's shift towards warmer conditions. The summer months of June, July, and August experience peak temperatures, particularly during the daytime, with max readings consistently touching 46°C (116°F), indicating a significant heat intensity. As fall sets in, temperatures begin to decline again, with September and October reflecting a noticeable drop in maximum temperatures to around 42°C (107°F), ultimately giving way to cooler conditions by November and December, where minimums once again dip, but daytime averages remain comfortable, around 11°C (53°F) in December. This seasonal cycle emphasizes Marrakesh-Safi's climatic extremes and its adaptation to both cold winters and scorching summers.
Marrakesh experiences a notable temperature range, with lows of 0°C (33°F) in February and highs reaching up to 45°C (113°F) in August. In contrast, Setti Fatma sees even colder temperatures, with January minimums dropping to -8°C (19°F) and maximums peaking at 34°C (93°F) in August. Essaouira offers a milder climate, with February minimums around 8°C (47°F) and summer highs of 34°C (93°F) in June. For more detailed temperature insights, explore the links: monthly temperatures in Marrakesh, monthly temperatures in Setti Fatma, and monthly temperatures in Essaouira.
Marrakesh-Safi exhibits a seasonal precipitation pattern that underscores its arid climate characteristics. Winter months show a gradual increase in rainfall, with January receiving 26 mm (1.0 in) across approximately 3 rainy days. Moving into February and March, precipitation peaks at 45 mm (1.8 in) and 50 mm (2.0 in), respectively, while April closely follows with 51 mm (2.0 in), showcasing the region's reliance on these early-year rains for agricultural moisture. May sees a decrease to 28 mm (1.1 in), suggesting a transitional phase as temperatures rise and the dry season approaches.
As the summer months progress, Marrakesh-Safi enters a notable dry spell, particularly from June to August, where precipitation drops significantly to 9 mm (0.4 in), 4 mm (0.1 in), and 16 mm (0.6 in), respectively. This sharp decline correlates with the region's highest temperatures and a minimal number of rainy days—July often records none at all. However, as fall approaches, September and October bring slight increases in rainfall, with 20 mm (0.8 in) and 28 mm (1.1 in), illustrated by around 4 rainy days each month. The trend continues into November and December, concluding the year with 31 mm (1.2 in) and 25 mm (1.0 in), reflecting a return to wetter conditions as temperatures drop again.
Marrakesh-Safi enjoys a remarkably sunny climate, with sunshine duration showcasing a clear seasonal pattern throughout the year. The winter months, particularly January and February, see an average of 239 hours and 281 hours of sunshine, respectively. As the region transitions into spring, sunlight hours increase significantly, peaking in April with 357 hours. This upward trajectory continues into May and June, where the city basks in 384 hours and 393 hours of sunshine, indicating that spring is an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
The summer months of July and August represent the zenith of sunshine, with July boasting the highest amount at 395 hours, slightly tapering to 375 hours in August. This abundance of sunlight contributes to the region's warm temperatures and vibrant atmosphere, making it a favored time for tourists. However, as the year progresses towards fall, sunlight decreases gradually, with October delivering 326 hours and November seeing a drop to 294 hours. By December, sunshine duration edges down further to 293 hours, marking the return of shorter days and signaling the onset of the cooler season. Overall, the consistent rise in sunshine duration from winter to summer elucidates Marrakesh-Safi's appeal as a sun-drenched destination year-round.
The UV Index in Marrakesh-Safi reveals significant variations throughout the year, aligning closely with seasonal shifts in solar radiation. In winter, January and December display a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a more tolerable sun exposure with a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. Transitioning into February, the UV Index escalates to 7, indicating a high exposure category and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV Index rises sharply, with March witnessing a dramatic increase to 10 (very high), and April reaching an extreme level of 11. This trend towards higher UV levels signifies the necessity for increased sun protection during these months.
The summer months display the most intense UV radiation, with the Index peaking at 13 in June—a truly extreme level that necessitates immediate sun protection due to a burn time of just 10 minutes. This extreme categorization persists through July and August, both maintaining a UV Index of 12. Transitioning to fall, the UV Index gradually declines, measuring 11 in September and 9 in October, where it remains in the very high to high categories, respectively. November and December again reflect lower UV levels of 6 and 5, reinforcing the significance of monitoring sun exposure year-round, particularly during the peak months when the potential for skin damage is greatest.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Marrakesh-Safi reflects a distinct seasonal rhythm, beginning with shorter days during the winter months of January and December, each offering about 10 hours of daylight. February marks a transition with an increase to 11 hours, which continues into March, maintaining the same daylight duration. As spring unfolds in April, daylight hours extend to 12, progressively increasing to 13 hours in May, signaling longer days that are ideal for outdoor activities and exploration as the weather warms.
The summer months of June through August showcase the peak daylight duration, with June offering the longest days at 14 hours. This slight decline to 13 hours in July and August indicates a stable summer period, characterized by abundant daylight for leisurely pursuits and cultural festivities. As the year transitions back into fall, daylight hours gradually decrease, with September reverting to 12 hours, and then proceeding to 11 hours in October. The pattern continues with a return to 10 hours in November, highlighting the cyclical nature of daylight in Marrakesh-Safi and its influence on lifestyle and activities throughout the year.
Essaouira, Morocco enjoys a mild coastal climate characterized by warm summers and moderate winters. Average temperatures range from 14°C (58°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in August, with maximum summer highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F). Precipitation is minimal during the summer months, completely ceasing in July and August, while winter months see higher rainfall, especially in January and February. The city experiences abundant sunshine, with the highest hours recorded in July (400 hours) and steadily declining into winter months. For more detailed information, visit Essaouira climate.
Marrakesh, Morocco, experiences a diverse climate, with warm summers and mild winters. From June to August, temperatures peak, reaching highs of up to 45°C (113°F), while winter months like January and February see average temperatures around 11°C (53°F) to 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is highest in spring, particularly in March, before dwindling during the dry summer months. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with May averaging 383 hours, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. For more details, visit Marrakesh climate.
Moulay Brahim, Morocco experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) in January to a warm 38°C (100°F) in August. The region sees the most precipitation in April, averaging 74 mm (2.9 in), while summer months like July and June receive minimal rainfall, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and 9 mm (0.4 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 392 hours in July, contributing to a generally pleasant environment. For more detailed information, visit Moulay Brahim climate.
Oukaimedene, Morocco experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a low of -8°C to a high of 20°C, while July sees much warmer conditions with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 34°C. Precipitation is most abundant in the spring, particularly in March and April, with monthly totals reaching up to 86 mm. Sunshine hours peak in summer, averaging around 389 hours in both June and July. For more detailed information, visit Oukaimedene climate.
Safi, Morocco experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. January sees average temperatures around 14°C (57°F) with significant precipitation (31 mm), while July peaks with average highs of 22°C (73°F) and minimal rainfall. The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially from May to July, with over 390 hours of sunlight during those months. Visit Safi climate for a more detailed overview.
The climate in Setti Fatma, Morocco, features a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January's lows reaching -8°C (19°F) and July's highs peaking at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation is most notable from April to June, peaking at 86 mm (3.4 in) in April, while July remains relatively dry with only 10 mm (0.4 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July and August racking up 389 hours of sunlight each. For more information, visit Setti Fatma climate.
In conclusion, Marrakesh-Safi, Morocco, presents a captivating climate characterized by its fluctuating temperatures, sunlight, precipitation, and UV Index throughout the year. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, from chilly winters to scorching summers, allowing for a rich tapestry of weather experiences that enhance the local culture and outdoor lifestyle. The ample sunshine during the warmer months, coupled with an increase in UV exposure, emphasizes the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike. As daylight hours extend in spring and peak in summer, they foster an environment ripe for exploration and leisure. Understanding these climatic elements not only enriches the appreciation of Marrakesh-Safi’s unique environment but also encourages responsible engagement with its natural beauty year-round.