When to Go

Morocco has been called "a cold country with a hot sun." With a chilly breeze off the High Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh can indeed get surprisingly cold in the winter and after the sun goes down. Although the sun shines almost year-round, the best time to visit is in spring, when the surrounding hills and valleys are an explosion of colorful flowers, and fall, when the temperature is comfortable enough to warrant sunbathing. The only exception in that period is during Easter week, which brings crowds.

Marrakesh's annual folklore festival of Moroccan music, theater, and dance—the Festival National des Arts Populaires de Marrakech—draws performers from all over Morocco and may even include an equestrian event. Held in July on the grounds of El Badi Palace, the festival lasts about 10 days and usually offers an evening program at 8:30. Don't miss it if you're here; just check with the Moroccan Tourist Office, as the date is never confirmed until a month or so beforehand.