Weather in Morocco in February: Climate Guide & Travel Insights
Morocco is best known as a summer destination. The tourist crowds flock to its long sandy beaches, Saharan oases, and snow-coated Atlas mountain tops. However, even in the middle of winter – especially if you can soar above the North African country in February – you can still enjoy the rugged Marrakesh souks, the majestic Kasbahs of Ait Benhaddou, and the delightful coastal towns of Essaouira and Asilah without the massive throngs of people.
February is one of the best months to visit Morocco and get a feel for the local culture. It is a month when you can enjoy the amazing food without sweating buckets in a sizzling hot climate. The weather is milder, the nature is blooming with wildflowers and the locals are hungry for visitors. It’s essentially a time of pre-spring. So, if you’re local or are planning on visiting for another special occasion, this guide provides helpful hints for visiting Morocco in February. It covers everything from hotel booking tips, lesser-known destinations to visit, dressing suggestions as well as a suggested itinerary.
February is known for the “beautiful” Fez Festival of World Sacred Music but it is a month that also features other wonderful events like the colourful almond blossom festival in Tafraoute as well as fascinating national ceremonies like the day-long Throne Day.
2. Overview of Moroccan Climate
The weather in Morocco offers contrasts, with warm days and cold nights, occasional rain, and some snow in the Higher Atlas mountains or unfortunately sandstorms. This North African kingdom enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with oceanic influences on the coastal regions. Inland, the climate is continental and can record very cold winters and extremely hot summers. The desert part, in the southeast, near the border with Algeria has a hot desert climate. Want to know more about the weather in Morocco in February? Keep reading! Morocco is located in North Africa, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and on the Mediterranean Sea. To the north, a mountain range separates the Atlantic from the interior of the country and forms an important barrier that has repercussions on the climate. The city of Tangier, for example, is often covered with clouds, while in the rest of the country, the sun shines most of the year. The northwestern area offers a more Mediterranean climate, with mild and rainy winters and hot and dry summers. Further south and building up inland, summers tend to be hotter and winters colder, until we reach the depressions and valleys of the interior where we can find the climate of the Moroccan desert, with little precipitation, mostly in winter. The southern slopes of the High Atlas mountain range receive the highest rainfall, mainly in the autumn and winter months. The coastal regions have a typical Mediterranean climate with milder temperatures, but are also affected by the trade winds, which blow sporadically all year. Rainfall records are slightly higher in winter, but winter remains dry due to the blocking high.
3. February Weather Patterns
February is the last winter month in Morocco, and the overview of weather parameters reflects this. The temperatures at the beginning of the month are usually among the coldest of the year, but the general trend is toward warming days, which become hotter and hotter if a cold wave does not take over the month. However, extreme temperatures are possible. This transition from winter to spring is noticeable from the rain totals too. Most of the winter precipitation has already occurred by the middle of February, and the rest of the month tends to be dryer, especially in the North, where it usually rains more than in the Central and Southern regions of the country. The amount of sunshine generally increases from slightly less than 7 hours per day at the beginning of the month to more than 8 hours at the end, which heralds spring and summer. February means humidity for Morocco. Rain may fall on any day of the month, but it usually rains in the first 10 to 15 days of the month. In the Northern region, clouds and rain can steal the show, but the rains lessen in the second half of the month. Diverging from the rain amounts in the Northern Mountains, rain amounts gradually decrease, reaching the Southern Sahara after passing over the Central areas. Snow is possible on the summits of the High Atlas, which average in February, but the snow-line usually coincides with the summits. The Southern Matif tends to receive less, and the temperatures above the snow, although cold, are milder than the North, with more sunshine hours.
3.1. Temperature Ranges
Morocco is located in northwest Africa. The country is characterized by diverse terrain and climate patterns, which vary depending on the topography and geographical features of distinct regions. Most tourists prefer to visit Morocco in the summer months. However, the actual peak travel season is condensed into a few busy months, around spring and fall in the months from March to June and September to October. The winter months are damp and cold in the north and sunny and dry in the south. The country receives moderate amounts of rain, particularly in the northern and north-central regions. To begin with, February is the coldest month of the year in Morocco, which is generally regarded as winter in the country. Cities in the interior region, like Fes, have daytime temperatures in the range of 14C to 16C and nighttime lows of around 3C.
Mountains in the north and the central region, especially the Atlas Mountains, are covered in thick snow and freezing weather during this time. If you love cold weather, trekking on mountain hiking trails or skiing on snow are good options while traveling in February. Coastal regions, like Casablanca and Essaouira, have daytime highs around 16C to 18C and nighttime temperatures in the 8C to 9C range. Cities in the southern region, like Agadir, have generally warm and pleasant February weather with highs of around 20C to 22C and nightly lows of 9C to 11C. Typically, daytime weather across Morocco is very comfortable in February, so wearing mild summer layers, like a T-shirt, with light outer clothing is perfect for visiting tourist sites. However, you need to dress warmly for the evenings.
3.2. Precipitation Levels
February is characterized by high likelihood of precipitation in Morocco and the rainy season is in full swing. Although it is possible for rain to fall in any region, most of it falls in the north and middle Atlas Mountains and the Rif mountains, while the coasts are also in the area receiving highest precipitation. The extreme south and southeast are experiencing the lowest percentages of humidity. Its required during this month to pack warm clothes, because snowfalls can also happen in the mountains. The days are sunny and the nights are cold. However, in the coastal regions and cities like Marrakesh, there is high humidity, therefore try to choose moisture resistant clothes. Below are listed the average precipitation levels by region and by city.
Morocco is characterized by low and variable precipitation. Late winter and spring are the rainiest seasons. Annual totals vary from less than 100 mm on the central and southern plains bordering the Sahara desert to over 1800 mm on the peaks of the Rif and Atlas mountain ranges and the northern coast. About three quarters of the falls between September and May. Snow is frequent in the mountainous regions during winter. The relative humidity is usually higher in autumn and winter than in summer. In February, the average precipitation values decrease from 125 mm in the high lands, to 50 mm in the interior southern areas. Rainfall is meager in the region of Laayoune and Dakhla. In February, the eastern region witnesses the lowest average rainfall values in the country with 16 mm at Errachidia.
3.3. Humidity and Wind Conditions
In February, the lower humidity levels in Northern areas like Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca make the negative effects of humidity negligible. Humidity levels in these areas vary, with the coastal cities experiencing humidity levels of 74-76%. The extreme northern parts of the country, including the cities of Tangier and Tetouan, experience the lowest humidity levels of 66-68%, relative to the rest of the country. As you travel south, humidity levels steadily increase along the western and eastern sides of the Middle Atlas Mountains. On the eastern side, cities like Fes and Ifrane experience February humidity levels of 81% and 83%, respectively. On the western side, cities like Beni Mellal and Azilal experience February humidity levels of 90% and 84%, respectively. The eastern part of Morocco, including cities like Oujda and Nador, also sees some very high humidity levels, at 86% and 87%, respectively. February is the peak of the rainy season in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco, resulting in the heavily increased humidity levels compared to the rest of Morocco. High humidity levels in combination with temperatures near freezing at night could make for a horrible experience. You also might want to keep some jackets on hand in late afternoon to evening, especially in the Middle Atlas region. Basic summer attire should be sufficient for daytime use. The wind generally blows from the west. Throughout Morocco, wind speeds are highest in the northern and southern sections of the country, so keep the wind chill factor in mind when planning your trip. Wind speeds typically vary from 4 m/s to 8 m/s throughout February. The average wind speeds for several cities in Morocco are as follows: Oujda: 4.8 m/s, Rabat: 5.5 m/s, Marrakesh: 6.4 m/s, Tangier: 6.4 m/s, Agadir: 7.1 m/s, and Laayoune: 7.1 m/s.
4. Regional Weather Variations
1. Introduction 1.1. Morocco Overview 1.2. Short Summary of Morocco Weather in February
Weather in Morocco in February is relatively mild, but considerable differences can still be found from region to region. Due to its position and topographical characteristics, Morocco has a great weather diversity. The weather shows, for example, huge differences between the coastal area and the south.
2. Weather Changes 3. The Best Time to Visit Morocco 4. Regional Weather Variations 4.1. Coastal Areas 4.2. Inland Regions 4.3. Mountainous Regions 4.4. Desert Areas
4. Regional Weather Variations
The weather in Morocco in February is relatively mild, however considerable differences can still be found from region to region. Due to its position and topographical characteristics, Morocco has a great weather diversity. The weather shows, for example, huge differences between the coastal area and the south.
Among the three large provinces of Morocco’s main geographical features, only the coastal area presents. The weather is at times quite severe on the Atlantic slope, because the cold winds coming from the America at this time of the year – the northwesterly and the northerly – produce thick clouds, fogs and a great amount of showers. This is why the most important cities of this area – Rabat, Casablanca, El Jadida or Agadir – need to contain their temperatures between 15 and 17ºC. Reversely, on the Atlantic slope, and especially in the southern part of the coast, the weather seems warmer and sunnier. The maximum temperatures reach 18ºC in Essaouira and reach 19ºC at the end of the coast in Agadir.
4.1. Coastal Areas
Morocco’s coastal areas, particularly on the Atlantic Ocean side, experience mild temperatures throughout February. Here, average high temperatures fall within the 16- to 19-C range, while average lows rarely drop below 6- to 8-C. These moderate temperatures make the beach towns of Asilah, Tangier, and Agadir ideal spots to rest, as long as you don’t mind an occasional shower. Rainy days typically happen as a result of oceanic disturbances and the freshening of winds from the northwest, bringing humid air to land and causing drizzle or even record precipitation. Sunshine appears occasionally while breathtaking sunsets over the ocean may inspire poets, photographers, and alike.
In February, waters off Morocco’s shoreway are cool with average days at or below 16-C temperature. The summer allure of relaxing while tanning over soft, pale sand are forgotten. Breezy conditions on the shore, not to mention sea breezes that often develop in the afternoon and last until nighttime, cause a chill by day and a cool at night. So, don’t forget your Mac; modern and pastel colored are in this season. Not to create a fashion incident over the beach walls of those tubercles appearing when you don’t put it on before sunset or before sunbathing in the windless comfort of your sun of the afternoon. And remember that on rainy days, wind and chill are accompanied too, and may require keeping a jacket on, if not a scarf as well as a hood over the head, yes, indeed. Showers are brief, but you may get to wear a raincoat if trekking is your forte. You may plan your trip for one city or several of those located along the Ras, but don’t expect comfortable water temperatures to enjoy in the ocean; it’s winter already.
4.2. Inland Regions
The interior regions of Morocco experience more demanding weather conditions in February, especially at night when temperatures can plummet well below 0°C. These areas suffer from a lack of rain due to their distance from the ocean and the barrier represented by the mountain ranges. Hence, in the interior plains and valleys of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, you can expect mostly dry and sunny days but with chilly evenings while the nights remain cold. Only the warmest and sunniest places can give you pleasant weather in late winter, and in February, these are the valleys located along the rivers and the African coast.
The area of the country located to the southeast of the Atlas Mountains is inhabited by large oases where the date palm grows and which enjoy milder temperatures than the surrounding arid lands. February is also the driest month of the year for the Mediterranean regions and along the northern border with Algeria, as well as the harshest for both the interior and the southern border with Algeria. In the valleys, the climate becomes overall very mild thanks to the solar radiation received, but the ultra-quick temperature drops during the night are clearly noticeable.
In February, due to the intense solar radiation, you can get pleasant weather in the hottest interior areas while the Sahara Desert with its almost always sunny sandy stretches offers fine weather with the only exception of high and premature duns that could affect the periods of time bordering with the months of spring. The nights are cold, which usually leads to the formation of frost, especially in the Djebel Sahro, in the valley of the Grand Dunes du Sud Moroccan, and in the valley of the Draa.
4.3. Mountainous Regions
February is one of the coldest months of the year in Morocco. This is even more evident in the mountainous regions. Days are cool and nights are sometimes very cold. Temperature is very low at the ski resort and the snow cover is generally important at this time. There are some days with too much snow falling and ski conditions are then very tough. Northern slopes, in particular, are often windy and with very low wind chill. Freezing rain and icing are also possible. February is also one of the driest months of the year at the ski resort; but generally, it is still a winter month with a lot of cloudy days than good sunny days. Skiing conditions are usually better than in January because the snow is more compact. It would be a shame not to enjoy the splendid view of the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains. This is an opportunity to bring back very nice pictures of the region. In February, many people go hiking in the snowy Atlas Mountains while others ski in Oukaimeden or Michlifen. The summit of the Atlas is generally very windy and it’s better to limit the ascension to the Refuge Toubkal or the Imlil pass if you do not want to embark on a technical climb.
4.4. Desert Areas
In the month of February, some regions of southern Morocco feature an arid climate, with a stark contrast in weather conditions with respect to the meteorological conditions generally found in the central-south Sahara region. This is due to the presence to the west of the Atlantic Ocean. To the usual wind from the northeast is added the relief located to the east. Here the winds are borne dry and hot by the central Sahara ergs, and according to the weather cycles of cold outbreaks or the arrival of air masses from the southwest, temperatures can exceed 25 ° C during midday; but as the nights are usually long, in some of the most arid desert areas, the daily temperature range is very wide: it can go from more than 25 ° C during the day to – 4 ° C at night.
In to the southeast of the Anti-Atlas, especially in the lower regions and with the internal valleys, where there is a delicately cold desert climate, although the days are pleasantly warm, the nights can be extremely cold. In winter, nights below freezing are common, and some of the coldest months are December, January, and February. The cold weather in the southeast Anti-Atlas valleys is due to the high nocturnal inversion of all valleys in the subtropical and tropical deserts. To increase the bitter cold of the nights, the strong thermal radiation and dryness bode well for a possible snowfall on a reduced scale in the coldest places.
February is a snowy day in valleys and deserts in the Sahara. In some very cold nights, it could happen that the clouds come closer and cover the area. They could later be able to precipitate some snow, marking the mobile dunes and others. The cold times could happen from time to time, but of short duration, with the presence of cold air due to outbreaks of polar air reaching the area. A small more-dimensional desert on the general average would be located on the northern and western margins.
5. Travel Considerations for February
Despite the mild climate, the February weather in Morocco can often be variable with sunny and dry days but also periods of rain, especially in the north and along the Atlantic coast. By traveling to Morocco in February, we have to accept a certain level of travel discomfort and it is best to keep an open mind. While a visit to Morocco in winter can result in somewhat irregular weather in most parts of the country, it also has its rewards: February is still the low season in Morocco, which means you won’t be sharing most places with the typical tourist crowds. Also, the surrounding mountains will be covered with snow, creating a nice backdrop to the cities and making it a nice place to go skiing if you are into that kind of thing. If you’re looking for warm beach weather when you travel to Morocco in February, you will be disappointed. You won’t be able to swim in the sea or sunbathe on a beach in Morocco in February. Skimpy swimwear is not only impractical, it is culturally unacceptable. If you want to enjoy the beach nevertheless, a good piece of advice is to pack a good book and simply go to the beach without a swimming aspect. Bring with you to Morocco in February warm sweaters and jackets for the cold days, for the chilly evenings, and also for the cold nights. Think three suitcase essentials: layers, rain clothing, and snow equipment. Don’t forget about comfortable walking shoes that can tolerate a bit of mud and water. Generally, it is better to dress in layers when you travel to Morocco in February, where you can adapt to the diverse weather conditions throughout the day. Conditions can vary from cold to warm in the south, but tourists don’t take the same weather risks when they travel in Morocco in February as they would on an adventure trip in one of the nearby Sahara countries.
5.1. Packing Essentials
Weather in Morocco in February: Packing Essentials
When packing for Morocco in February, think layers! During the daytime, temperatures in February can feel summery. With highs in the Sahara Desert of 19ºC, and in Marrakesh at 16ºC, you’ll want summer clothes. However, evenings and nights are a different story. Down to around 6ºC in Marrakesh and 3ºC in the Sahara Desert, you won’t want to freeze, especially after a long day of sightseeing or trekking in the cold. Make sure you have warm clothes – coats, sweaters, scarves, and gloves. And if you are going to the mountains, be prepared for much colder temperatures there! I wore winter clothes there, and still found it quite cold!
You’ll definitely want to bring a good pair of shoes as well. They should be comfortable, closed toe, and have a good grip on the bottom. If you plan to walk a lot, consider bringing some light trainers or sandals. If you plan to trek, make sure to pack a good pair of hiking boots. If you select them carefully, they can be a multipurpose option – I used mine in the city and on the mountains! In Marrakesh, I packed light with sandals. Although the freezing temperature at night forced me to seal my feet, I wouldn’t have changed it for anything. I love roaming the streets freely!
Depending on the travel itinerary you have, you’ll still need other things: a high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun; a small backpack for walking around the city; and a good camera to capture the moment. If you plan to hike, make sure to bring trekking poles if you need them. You can use them to ease the strain of going uphill or downhill. As for the equipment, you can trust a large camera, or take your chances with your phone. With the new camera tech, you can take stunning photos. I took plenty!
5.2. Recommended Activities
When visiting Morocco in February, you can hit the surf in Taghazout, the Bay of Dakhla or Imsouane. If you don’t mind getting in the cold Atlantic Ocean, surfing is definitely one of the best things to do in Morocco in February. If you want to avoid the cold Atlantic, you may go windsurfing or kitesurfing in Dakhla. A walk by the amazing beach of Moulay Bousselham and the lagoon isn’t so bad either! In the desert, February normally has sharp temperature changes between day and night, so you need warm clothes to sleep. But the daytime can be mild. Mountainous desert landscapes are made to be explored. Go hiking in the Anti-Atlas or Atlas Mountains. And if you’re short on time, those few hours trekking around Kasbah Tissint turn out to be simply spectacular. Lesser-known than Dades and Todra, the steel-gray gorges of Kasbah Tissint are as stunning as the popular ones. In the heart of the area of Boumalne Dades, the Kasbah Ait Kabbash isn’t as famous as the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, but it’s just as beautiful. Get lost in the deep creeks overlooking the kasbah and dare to hike it! Warning: Once seen, you can’t untake the image from your mind! Finally, hiking is also possible in Paradise Valley, a usual day trip from Agadir. In this case, it’s a river tracing surrounded by palm trees, which mysterious forms are made to be explored. A day to enjoy some hot springs in the Atlas.
5.3. Cultural Events and Festivals
February in Morocco, while not known for major festivals, still offers some unique opportunities for cultural immersion. The highlight of this month is the Commemoration Festival of the Rebellion of Doukkala in El Jadida. This event celebrates the region’s struggle against colonial entry and the collaboration of King Mohammed V in this resistance. At the festival, you can see the presentation of horsemen dressed in traditional outfits, but also singers and dancers grouped around a portable fire. Also in El Jadida, you can attend exhibitions organized by the National Institute of Fine Arts in February. The result is the Festival des Arts de Rabat. This festival aims to promote the work of young Moroccan painters and organize meetings and discussions between the public and artists. Usually, the works presented are made in abstract expressionism with subjects ranging from the city to the farm. The Festival du Cheval d’El Jadida in mid-February is the largest horse festival in Morocco. Reserved for horsemen from all regions, it offers a cocktail of shows and performances directly inspired by ancient traditions. You can appreciate the beauty and the courage of the horses, presented in their best light, the folklore of the regions, the power and the rhythm of the dahirou, these horses worthy of appearing in a Game of Thrones episode, the talent of the masters and their jackals, the skill of the trainers, some of whom are ladies, the mixture of colors that sit well on the Persian horses, etc. This festival is an opportunity to promote our ancient traditions.
6. Health and Safety Tips
During your trip to Morocco in February, we invite you to read the following health and safety tips. Even though Morocco is generally a safe destination, there are still hazards to consider.
6.1. Travel Insurance
Before arriving in Morocco, make sure you have taken out a good travel insurance policy that includes health coverage and assistance and evacuation services. You may not need assistance services if you are travelling with a group or tour operator. Even if you are not planning strenuous activities, travel insurance will offer you an additional peace of mind.
Prepare your travel insurance policy carefully, and scrutinize the details of the Insurance Exclusions section. Ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all activities that you may engage in during your trip to Morocco in February. Depending on your country of residence or your insurance company, it would be advisable to compare plans and prices with several companies and purchase the most appropriate one for your needs, just in case.
6.2. Weather-Related Health Precautions
Even though Morocco in February has relatively pleasant temperatures, certain precautions are advised to avoid feeling unwell or getting sick. Also, if you decide to travel to the Sahara Desert, you will encounter much colder temperatures. Before leaving to the south of Morocco and the desert in February, don’t forget to check the weather forecast. As in any country, Morocco has towns and communities where the distribution of resources is not equal.
Drink plenty of water and avoid getting dehydrated, especially when hiking in the High Atlas Mountains. For this, you should choose your excursions wisely and stay on the well-trodden paths and trails that connect the gites and villages. It is advisable to pack proper hiking shoes, just in case. There are sections with uphill paths where gravity runs its course, and you must be careful not to slip since some trails are narrow.
6.1. Travel Insurance
Getting a worldwide travel insurance policy is a must for all travelers, no matter their destination. While Morocco is very well equipped in terms of health services, a big majority of healthcare facilities only accept cash payments, and travel insurance is the best way to have all your expenses covered —or most of them—, if you do have to see a doctor. If you should have an accident, find yourself sick, or require surgery, hospital services will cost you a pretty penny. Insuring yourself can save you tons, as a hospital stay in Morocco can cost anywhere between $350-400 a night to $2,000-2,500 per night, depending on the treatment. Moreover, ordinary health coverage does not extend to cover you on these medical issues you might encounter abroad. While you can see a doctor or dentist without insurance, but that’s very expensive overseas. And especially in the case of Morocco, for which special travel companies have set up exclusive medical rescue insurance. Thanks to these travel insurance companies that are experts in travel insurance, you can get a hospital stay, see a doctor, dentist, and even have emergency repatriation for a few euros a day. Travel insurance works on the principle of mutualization. The price of insurance is based on the probability of the risk of hospitalization happening. Each year, millions of euros are circulated in this mutualization. Global travel insurance is not expensive compared to the costs you could encounter while abroad for a short period. For a hospital admission for a day in the USA, it costs an average of $18,000. In France, it costs an average of $500. Consider that the days when you are on vacation represent so much lost income for you, in money lost, so much discounted insurance is worth it.
6.2. Weather-Related Health Precautions
Almost without exception, all temperatures in Morocco are agreeable in February. However, sudden and severe variations in temperature are always possible since air masses and wind currents are a dynamic and easily manipulated part of our weather system. If moving from the northern coast to the southern desert plateaus in a matter of days, a normally high temperature on arrival at one location does NOT indicate that it will feel good, or be comfortable enough to be without warmer outer clothes, in just a short transfer to lower (but possibly windier) northern areas on departure, especially considering that it is of little use to wear bare arms under a T-shirt or blouse during the 3–5 hour trip! Moroccan hospitality will graciously provide ample opportunity to balance your sleeping concerns while a hostile, chilly off-shore wind dramatically whips loose sand as you thread Hammans’ lifelines—or simply moor at Agadir harbor’s cool beach—if sleep is thought advisable after the half-day trans-Atlantic hop due to overzealous anticipation of planned fun!
February and most of our years in Morocco offer a tailor-made vacation for travel and adventure! Avoid the physical shocks which come from seldom-experienced abrupt climatic changes, long and arduous trips—and likely immune-system temporary decrease—especially during the winter months! Throat or stomach discomfort and flight delays which often introduce unnecessarily long exposure while half-awake, tired with de-hydrated nasal passages—replete with dust from a dry-air flight—ptosis can all be badly minimized. Altogether, additional interesting places and not-so-in-demand exploration arrangements become preferably nearer because illness and discomfort are lessened and for unnecessary discomfort to yourself, but also to your exploring family and friends, if precautions are carefully followed.
7. Transportation in Morocco
Morocco has an impressive wide-ranging transport infrastructure. Buses and trains connect historical cities and most larger towns. Thus, multi-city visits are much easier to organize in Morocco than in many other nearby countries. Within Morocco there is a great independence within each city as public transport is relatively well thought out. The rules of the country mean that it is better to explore on foot where possible as driving standards are chaotic and crowded.
Public Transport Options The long distance bus networks are well priced, with two standout companies. These operators connect both historical and coastal cities. Long distance buses generally leave from bus stations set in the suburbs. Checking in might take some time and there isn’t any catering on board, but Morocco’s national dish of tagine is easy to find at bus stations.
Trains are relatively new, efficient and cheap and there are good connections between major cities. For public transport access taxis are worth getting to grips with. 7 seat partage taxis offer transport for a few Dirhams. They are generally mini-vans, take more room but leave when full, which can take some time. The 5 seat taxi grande (or taxi local) are saloon, speedy and comfortable but can cost more. However, negotiate and agree on the fare. Within towns shops can be a long way apart, but taxi locaux charge by the length of journey.
Public transport within town is best via taxis. Shared taxis adjoin/influence public transport and are mini-vans which take 7 passengers, 6 in the back and use regulate courses. However, they are cheap, unreliable and idiosyncratic. There is only one tram service in Morocco and this is in Casablanca. Otherwise within towns it is best to walk. But, horse-drawn carriages are also available.
7.1. Public Transport Options
In Morocco, public transport is, in fact, a very good option to travel around. Even if you like to or have no other option than to drive your own car, it is worth it to consider the use of public transport. Most cities link each other with train lines or well connected bus lines. City’s public transport is cheap and usually reliable. You will only have to take care of timetables. Finally, it is a good opportunity to sink into the daily life of Moroccans and you will meet a lot of friendly and nice locals willing to help you. If you visit in the big cities of Morocco, you will find bus lines run by big companies for long-distance trips. Then, you will find shared taxis and small buses for short distances trips. To get to rural areas, you will find shared taxis driving through main roads and willing to stop where you want them to. For city visits, many cities have a public bus network. In Marrakesh, you may consider the option to hire open-top small buses. They will take you around some important parts of the city in a short period of time. Talking about Marrakesh, the best option to move within the Medina is the horse-carriage. You can hire one in Jeema el Fna Square. Finally, if you stay in the seaside city of Agadir, you will be able to move through the Hotel area and the Port area using the free small buses provided by the hotels.
7.2. Car Rental Considerations
Car rental in Morocco can be a hassle, according to many travelers. We have personally rented a car multiple times in Morocco and did not encounter any issues. However, there seem to be a few general rules to be aware of: Make sure your rental car is booked in advance and confirmed, preferably with an international brand; inspect your car for existing damage thoroughly before accepting; and finally make sure to take lots of pictures of both the inside and the outside, especially for older cars. If possible, record a video when you get in the car and when you return it. Additionally, make sure to read up on the particulars of the driving environment in Morocco. Moroccans drive with different standards than Westerners, and roads can be in bad shape in places. Always carry cash on you, both in case you need it urgently and because in some areas where you may not be covered with an international credit card, you can only pay in cash. It’s also worth noting that car rental offices near airports can get busy during peak travel days, so you might have to wait a while for your car. Car rental prices in Morocco are around the same as in Europe, so they are reasonable. Keep in mind that rental prices will experience an uptick if you are traveling at the same time as Moroccans – i.e., around holidays – and make sure to book in advance. Finally, make sure to know your pickup and return hours. In some cases, rental offices can be closed overnight.
8. Accommodation Insights
Because of the weather in Morocco in the month of February, most tourists choosing this destination will be heading to the southern or coastal areas of the country. Consequently, hotel occupancy in tourist towns like Marrakeck, Essaouira, Agadir, or Taroudant are usually higher than in the month of January. However, if your trip coincides with public holidays, it is better to book a hotel in advance.
8.1. Popular Cities for February Stays
While it is very unlikely that you will suffer snow or frost in the popular tourist cities of southern Morocco during the month of February, you can definitely expect low temperatures, rain, and a sky with more clouds than clear. The most popular tourist cities in Morocco in February are Marrakeck, where the temperature varies from 6ºC to 17ºC; Essaouira, with 8ºC to 16ºC; Agadir, with 10ºC to 18ºC; and Taroudant, with 2ºC to 20ºC.
In all these cities in southern Morocco, the average daily sun hours in February exceed 6, which means that there are many clear hours during these months. The most rainy prediction, during the month of February in southern Morocco, corresponds to Taroudant, where nine days are usually rainy or very rainy. February is one of the months with the most dust storms in Morocco, which means that you should probably be careful when it comes to the outfit of the day, especially if you are planning to be in the desert or in the mountains.
8.2. Types of Accommodation
In Morocco, it is possible to find several types of accommodation such as hotels, lodging houses, riads or hostels, which can be more or less expensive depending on the services they offer. In the 3 biggest and most touristic cities in Morocco, you will be able to buy accommodation of approximately 20-40 euros, which is not at all a high price to stay in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
8.1. Popular Cities for February Stays
In February, Morocco is less busy with travelers, but the most popular cities – Marrakech and Agadir – still have plenty of visitors: a sunny beach holiday in Agadir is an essential escape from winter in Europe and February is a great time for exploring the desert around Marrakech. Other larger towns have their pros and cons, while smaller Moroccan towns can be quiet but can also be less suitable for first-time visitors to Morocco who are seeking saffron, Kasbahs, mint tea and souks. Marrakech is known as the ‘Red City’ with its classic reddish colored adobe buildings and a vibrant arts scene. There are many interesting things to see and do in the city. The Medina is a labyrinth filled with alleys, souks, and hidden jewels such as palaces, gardens, and museums. Costa de Marrakech is also home to the famous Djemaa El Fna square. Tourist traps outside the city are worth a visit; the palm groves, the Agafay Desert, and the Atlas Mountains offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. Agadir is Morocco’s most popular beach resort thanks to its mild climate, sunny days, and wide sandy beach. The resort town has plenty of all-inclusive hotels, many near the promenade as well as shops, restaurants, and bars, and water sports. Don’t expect traditional Moroccan architecture as you can find in other cities, but Agadir has a modern layout after the original resort was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake. For a taste of more authentic Moroccan life, take day trips to the nearby fishing village of Taghazout or the city of Taroudant.
8.2. Types of Accommodation
Traveling is the kind of experience that needs to be relished and enjoyed rather than just passed as a time. And if something makes it extremely memorable and unforgettable is where we stay. A dull, unwelcoming place can easily take away from the fun of our trip. So, before planning any vacation, it is always logical to know what sorts of accommodations are provided in that destination.
Basically there are two sorts of accommodations in Morocco, namely hotels and private houses. Regarding the first category, hotels are concentrated in the most frequented towns. They range from dormitories for group trips to five-star palaces for those who wish to exploit their wallet. For the most part they have swimming pools for cooling off during the heat waves that sometimes besiege the country; especially in August. Most do not serve food, drinks, or any service for that matter, so visitors will have to fend for themselves. But few are the denied services: dry cleaning, room service. In short, hotels exist to accommodate visitors and no more. Some serve alcohol, but many do not.
If visitors want to have a different experience of their vacation, and to have a better chance of mingling with locals or with fellow travelers from around the world, Morocco also has an offer of more authentic accommodations where they can choose from: Riads, Zocos and Gites. As opposed to the balance of hotels, these guesthouses usually serve food and treat their guests as what they are: guests, not just clients. The hosts are usually locals who wish to share the experience of their culture while having visitors at their homes. And that’s basically what travelers might also experience, a stay in a local Moroccan neighborhood that lives and breathes tradition.
9. Local Cuisine and Dining
Moroccan cuisine is one among the best in the world. It is just as varied and multi-varied as its landscapes – with a mix of Mediterranean influences, Berber gastronomic traditions and Arab, African and Andalusian spices. It is a spicy cuisine. Also be sure to feast on street food stalls which are replete with delicious freshly prepared items. Dishes you absolutely must take back home some memory of are tagine dishes – with vegetables, lamb, chicken, seafood or even dragonfish! Secondly, we have couscous – hearty and fluffy semolina style pasta-like, crispy and wholesome grain dish also with meat or vegetables, best eaten with your hands. Another must-have is keftas – meatballs made of minced lamb or beef flavored with spices, normally enjoyed in a spicy tomato sauce served with fried eggs. Yet another favorite, especially with the young ones, is brochettes, meat skewers grilled over a charcoal fire, and also served with bread and spicy tomato sauce. A weekender favorite is pastilla – a unique flaky pastry pie filled with pigeon, and garnished with almonds or raisins or honey.
Seasonal Dishes
Couscous, among other dishes like lentils or harira is normally prepared on Fridays. These dishes are comforting favorite dishes for both the Berbers and the Arabs. The Berbers eat lamb or chicken tagine with vegetables or chickpeas or dried apricots. Around the choice of the dishes, also most consideration is given to the quality of the products: landlocked Morocco offers high-quality meats and produce, because of its small farms where animals and vegetables are raised in a semi-domestic setting for reasons of family tradition and supply. In coastal Morocco, sardine brochettes are also available.
Dining Etiquette
Moroccan food is eaten with hands, though fork-cutlery is provided, because locals eat with their right hand only. Locals generally share meals around the same plate or dish on a low table or the floor. This practice can be either with family and friends in privacy or with tourists in the public limelight. It is very important to note that the host shares the most visually appetizing food around the table, especially the meat portion, and the guests take from that plate a small portion and place it on their own plate for eating. You can chew your food normally, but it is not done to show food being chewed outwards. Once the meal is done, it is best to not show the scraps of the meal on your plate.
9.1. Seasonal Dishes
February is a fantastic time in Morocco with the citrus season in full swing, you can eat good and tasty oranges at a time of year when they’ve just entered their season in Europe, more than anywhere else, and they’re the best dishes at beaches or rest areas. There are plenty of places where you can stop, eat your oranges and walk on the beach. So don’t forget to eat oranges in Morocco! You’ll find a juice in every market at around 1 dirham each, although they’re even cheaper in volume.
The carnival of Tangier and the dromedaries in Essaouira are some of the celebrations you can find in the month of February. In this month there’s nothing special to highlight; it’s the low tourism, but the best month to eat good Moroccan dishes, eat fruits for cheap as oranges, lemons, pomegranates, and enjoy the climate of the Taounate or Tetouan area. But don’t lose the chance to eat khlii, a dish of meat and fat for the past winter months as you can find it a lot this month. Other dishes that you can eat are hare, partridge, and other meats for cheap prices during this period or orders of tagine in advance with hare meat to eat a good tagine with hare.
Don’t forget to try shebbakia, beghrir, ghriba, briouates, etc. It’s nice to take a hot mint tea fully of pastries you would find while having cold afternoons or inside the souks after walking around. If you don’t like the winter season, you can choose better our visit during the month of May or September during the month of honey, but if you’re looking for low prices, then it’s the best time before the high season begins in March and Easter.
9.2. Dining Etiquette
When you are invited to someone’s home for a meal, it is important to accept the invitation. The whole home will be served for your comfort; however, you should not take it for granted. If you are a guest invited for lunch, try to arrive thirty minutes late and for dinner, an hour late as it is considered an impolite gesture to arrive on time. You are expected to greet everyone: men greet men with kisses on the cheeks and shake hands; women greet women with kisses; men greet women with a distance of their arms, also with kisses on the cheeks. Furthermore, when introduced to the head of the house, the right hand should be placed over the heart as a sign of respect. They will offer you to sit on a place that is very welcome for guests and be careful not to cross one leg over the other as it can mean disrespect. Then, before eating, a bucket or small basin filled with water is brought into the room and poured over your hands to wash them.
The dishes are served together for everyone to share; therefore, poached eggs, salads, meat dishes are served as main meals. The host takes the first bite; only after he/she has started eating does it become acceptable to join in. Desserts are passed around after the meal—eggs may be proffered once again as a symbol of friendship. When the meal is finished, it is polite to leave a couple of bites on your plate as a display of satisfaction. The invitation should either be reciprocated or gratitude expressed to the hosts who were generous enough to share something with you. At special occasions, you should send a box of pastries as a sign of thanks.
10. Conclusion
All in all, if you’re looking for hot weather and sunbathing on the beach, February is not the right time for your holiday in Morocco. However, the pleasant weather makes it a great month for hiking in the mountains and visiting the desert or cities. On the other hand, if you visit Morocco in February, don’t forget that this is the coldest month in the Sahara Desert and you need to pay attention to the weather conditions before you go to the desert, especially after the rain. The weather in the desert can be very cold at night and even during the day. If your trip involves an excursion in the snowy and cold Atlas Mountains, you’re advised to take proper clothing. But then again, a winter season in Morocco can be filled with fun… if you’re prepared for it. By the end of February, you can also catch the early days of the almond blossom in the south of Morocco. This spectacular event happens only for a couple of days and can be magical if you visit the area around Tafraout during that time. Thus, as you can see, December, January and February aren’t considered high season months to visit Morocco neither for us nor for most travelers, but if you plan your trip carefully, a winter getaway to Morocco can be a rewarding experience. You just have to choose the right places to visit taking into account the activities you want to do. Work your schedule around the weather conditions for the activities you plan on doing. With some patience, you can avoid the not-so-fun part of visiting Morocco in winter. And if you still have some comments or questions regarding the shape winter takes in Morocco, don’t hesitate to ask.
