Weather in Marrakech 🇲🇦
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
May
Avg Temp
28°C
Rain Days
4 days
Sun Hours
12 hrs
Humidity
70%
Africa › 🇲🇦 Morocco › Marrakech
Updated: March 2026
Is May a Good Time to Visit Marrakech?
8/10
Excellent
May is a excellent time to visit Marrakech (8/10). With 12 daily sunshine hours and only 4 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 5th sunniest of the year in Marrakech. Beach and outdoor-focused visitors will find May ideal, though hotel prices reflect demand and popular sites get crowded by mid-morning. June offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Marrakech's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: book accommodation at least 6-8 weeks ahead, as popular hotels fill quickly during May. Purchasing skip-the-line tickets for major attractions in advance saves meaningful time. If you have flexibility, arriving a few days before or after peak weekends reduces both crowds and prices noticeably.
vs April:24°C avg high
Marrakech's May climate peaks at 28°C each afternoon before cooling to 12°C overnight. 12 daily sunshine hours and just 4 wet days mean the odds of a fine day are solidly in your favour. It is an excellent window for outdoor itineraries.
28°C
82°F
Avg High
12°C
54°F
Avg Low
4 days
17 mm total
Rain Days
12h
per day avg
Sunshine
70%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Marrakech in May
The 16°C day-to-night swing is large enough to require a deliberate layering strategy, what works at noon will be noticeably cold by 10pm. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. UV index averages 9 this month, classed as high to very high. SPF 30+ sunscreen, a brim hat, and sunglasses are not optional between 10am and 4pm. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 82°F average high, 54°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Marrakech in May
Morning12°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon28°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening15°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Marrakech in May means dressing for 28°C days and 12°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 28°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 16°C to around 12°C, a notable shift that catches underprepared visitors off guard. Pack a dedicated evening layer. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.
Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Marrakech. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.
Events in Marrakech in May
May has no major festivals or public holidays in Marrakech, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Marrakech in May
Based on 28°C average highs and 4 rainy days
- Light layers for morning and evening
- Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Marrakech in May
- Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 28°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
- Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
- Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
- Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)May is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningMay brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in May, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings
Why is Marrakech warm in May?
Marrakech's May weather is dominated by the Azores High, a semi-permanent subtropical anticyclone that blocks Atlantic rain systems from reaching the Mediterranean. As a result, May delivers reliably sunny, dry conditions with temperatures averaging 28°C. The sea moderates extreme heat and keeps overnight lows around 12°C, making the city noticeably more comfortable than inland Mediterranean destinations. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Marrakech in May
In May, Marrakech experiences average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 12°C (54°F). Expect around 4 rainy days and 12 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 16°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV index averages 9, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.
Marrakech typically sees 4 rainy days in May, with total precipitation of around 17mm. This makes May one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Marrakech typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than May.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Marrakech in May. Daytime temperatures of 28°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 12°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 4 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
Yes, May is an excellent time to visit Marrakech. With 12 daily sunshine hours and only 4 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 28°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Marrakech in May is 28°C (82°F), and the average low is 12°C (54°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 20°C (68°F). The day-to-night range of 16°C is significant and requires layering. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Marrakech is generally June. June offers the most sunshine at 13 hours per day and only 3 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 32°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around June gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
May is shoulder or low season in Marrakech, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 12 sunshine hours and 4 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In May, Marrakech suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 28°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 12 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
May ranks 5th sunniest of the year in Marrakech, with an average 12 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are July, June, and August. July is the hottest month (36°C avg high); January is the coolest (18°C). From here, temperatures rise 4°C into June. Compared to last month (April: 24°C high, 5 rain days), May is warmer and drier. May sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Marrakech, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 3°C | 5 | 9h | View |
| February | 19°C | 5°C | 6 | 10h | View |
| March | 22°C | 7°C | 6 | 11h | View |
| April | 24°C | 9°C | 5 | 12h | View |
| May | 28°C | 12°C | 4 | 12h | View |
| June | 32°C | 16°C | 3 | 13h | View |
| July | 36°C | 18°C | 1 | 13h | View |
| August | 36°C | 19°C | 3 | 13h | View |
| September | 31°C | 16°C | 3 | 11h | View |
| October | 27°C | 13°C | 4 | 10h | View |
| November | 22°C | 8°C | 5 | 9h | View |
| December | 19°C | 4°C | 5 | 9h | View |
January
5 rain days, 9h sun
18°3°
February
6 rain days, 10h sun
19°5°
March
6 rain days, 11h sun
22°7°
April
5 rain days, 12h sun
24°9°
May
4 rain days, 12h sun
28°12°
June
3 rain days, 13h sun
32°16°
July
1 rain days, 13h sun
36°18°
August
3 rain days, 13h sun
36°19°
September
3 rain days, 11h sun
31°16°
October
4 rain days, 10h sun
27°13°
November
5 rain days, 9h sun
22°8°
December
5 rain days, 9h sun
19°4°
Other Months in Marrakech
Plan Your Trip to Marrakech
Nearby Destinations
Cities within 500 km with comparable weather conditions
Data Sources for Marrakech
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.