As summer turns to fall in Morocco, temperatures start cooling off around the country and a lively cultural calendar offers plenty of special events. Here’s a monthly guide for where to go and what to do in September.
Morocco in September: A Comprehensive Guide
September in Morocco offers a unique blend of experiences, straddling the line between the scorching summer months and the milder temperatures of autumn. The weather, crowds, and available activities create a distinct atmosphere that is worth exploring in detail.
Weather Considerations
Following the hottest month in Morocco, September presents a mixed bag in terms of temperature, contingent upon your chosen destination. In Marrakech, the weather is generally agreeable for sightseeing, with an average daily temperature of 80°F. However, it remains too warm for comfortable exploration of the nearby Sahara Desert. Venturing into the vast expanse of sand and dunes during this time may prove challenging due to the intense heat.
Other inland regions can also experience oppressively hot conditions. Therefore, September is a particularly opportune time to visit the coastal areas or the majestic mountains. Agadir, a vibrant coastal city, boasts abundant sunshine and a pleasant average daily temperature of 74°F. The Atlas Mountains offer a slightly warmer climate, with a daily average of 77°F, although temperatures can peak at 90°F. This makes hiking more bearable than in the peak summer months.
In the northern regions of Morocco, you’ll find that Tangier experiences an average high of 81°, while Casablanca offers an even more pleasant climate, with a typical high of 78°. These moderate temperatures make for ideal conditions for exploring the cities’ cultural and historical landmarks.
Crowds and Costs Analysis
As the summer tourist season draws to a close, September sees a relative decrease in crowds. However, Morocco remains a popular destination, especially during weekends when European tourists take advantage of budget-friendly flights to Marrakech and other major cities. While the crowds may be thinner, don’t expect deserted streets.
Special promotions and discounts are not common during this time of year. You can expect to pay full price for hotels and tours. If you have a specific riad or restaurant in mind, it is advisable to make reservations in advance to secure your spot. Planning ahead is crucial to ensure you experience the best that Morocco has to offer.
Destination Recommendations
When considering a trip to Morocco in September, it’s helpful to reframe the question: Where shouldn’t you go? The Sahara Desert is generally best avoided during this month due to the still-intense heat. However, the rest of Morocco is ripe for exploration.
The coastline offers balmy weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and water activities. The temperatures in the Atlas Mountains are cooling down, making hiking and trekking a more appealing option. Imperial cities like Fes experience long days of sunshine and fewer tour groups compared to the summer months, providing a more intimate and immersive experience.
Activities and Experiences
September in Morocco is punctuated by a range of festivals and special celebrations. A side trip to a unique event like the Imilchil Marriage Festival offers an opportunity to venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in traditional Moroccan culture. These cultural experiences provide insights that most tourists never get to see.
The month is also well-suited for outdoor activities that combine hiking and swimming. After a hot summer, the ocean water, rivers, and lakes have warmed up, providing refreshing spots for a dip after a long hike. A trek around Todra Gorge in the High Atlas Mountains can be followed by a relaxing dip in the Todra River, offering the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Furthermore, the cooling temperatures make September a pleasant time for urban sightseeing, particularly in northern destinations like Casablanca, Tangier, and Chefchaouen. Exploring these cities on foot becomes more enjoyable as the heat subsides.
Featured September Events
* **Imilchil Marriage Festival:** Held in the village of Imilchil, nestled high in the Middle Atlas Mountains, this festival brings together Berber tribes in August and September for a collective marriage ceremony. Young men and women choose their spouses during this event, which sees thousands of people camping in traditional tents, accompanied by horses and camels. The highlight is the parade of elaborately dressed young women who dance and celebrate as they search for a husband.
* **Oasis Festival:** An Ibiza-style electronic music festival held just outside Marrakech that gains popularity each year. Check event listings for exact dates and artist lineups.
* **L’Boulevard Festival:** A weeklong music festival in Casablanca that features electronic, rock, and underground music. This event showcases the vibrant music scene of Morocco.
* **Tanjazz Festival:** As the name suggests, this is a jazz festival in Tangier that spans three days. Check event listings for the latest schedule.
Sample Itineraries
* **Moroccan Cities of the North:** The pleasant weather and thinning crowds create an ideal opportunity to explore the “blue city” of Chefchaouen, the Roman ruins at Volubilis, and the medieval medina of Fes. This six-day itinerary begins and ends in Casablanca.
* **Moroccan Cities & the Coast:** With nine days, you’ll have ample time to see Morocco’s imperial cities, Chefchaouen, and the coastal city of Essaouira. This itinerary, primarily focused on the northern regions, is perfect for September when desert temperatures remain uncomfortably high.
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