The Koutoubia minaret in Marrakech against a cloudy evening sky

When to go: low season

Morocco in November 2026

Cooler days, some rain and low-season prices, with the olive harvest, the Marrakech Film Festival and the first snow on the Atlas.

The Koutoubia, Marrakech, under an autumn sky. Photograph: Misa.stefanovic.07, CC BY-SA 4.0

Marrakech by day
18-22 °C
Sahara nights
8-12 °C
Riad prices
25-40% below peak
Wettest region
Tangier and the Rif

November: Morocco's quiet month

November is cooler and wetter than October, and many visitors skip it. Those who come find lower prices and emptier medinas: hotels and riads drop prices 25-40 percent from peak rates, the Marrakech medina is easier to walk, artisans in Fes have time to show their work, and desert camps offer discounts and upgrades.

The weather has its own rewards: wet medina lanes under lantern light, heavy skies, and the first snow on the Atlas peaks.

It is also the month of the olive harvest around Meknes and Fes, when pressing cooperatives let visitors taste the new oil. The Marrakech International Film Festival sometimes falls in late November, and the Atlantic surf season starts in earnest at Taghazout and Essaouira. Pack an extra layer and a rain jacket.

November weather by region

November brings cooler temperatures and the start of the rainy season. The south stays warm while the north gets wet.

RegionTemperatureRainOur verdictWhat to expect
Atlantic CoastEssaouira, Agadir, Rabat, Casablanca17-22 °CModerate (4-7 rainy days)GoodMild by European winter standards but cooling. Agadir remains the warmest coastal city (20-24 degrees). Essaouira has atmospheric misty mornings. Swimming is cool but possible for hardy swimmers in Agadir. Surfing season begins on the Atlantic.
Mediterranean CoastTangier, Tetouan, Al Hoceima14-19 °CHigh (6-9 rainy days)FairThe wettest region in November. Tangier gets moody and atmospheric with rain and dramatic skies. The Rif Mountains are green and lush. Not ideal for beach holidays but excellent for photography and cultural exploration.
Interior CitiesMarrakech, Fes, Meknes15-22 °CLow-Moderate (3-5 rainy days)Very GoodPleasant daytime temperatures for medina exploration. Marrakech averages 18-22 degrees with sunny spells between occasional showers. Fes is cooler (15-19 degrees). Evenings drop to 8-12 degrees — bring warm layers. Riads with fireplaces come into their own.
Sahara DesertMerzouga, Zagora, Draa Valley12-25 °CVirtually noneVery GoodComfortable daytime temperatures for desert activities. Nights are genuinely cold (8-12 degrees) — warm sleeping bags essential in camps. Clear skies make for spectacular stargazing. Fewer tourists than October or December.
Atlas MountainsImlil, Ouarzazate, Dades Valley2-12 °CModerate (4-6 rainy/snowy days)Fair to GoodFirst snow arrives on peaks above 3,000m. Toubkal may have snow from mid-November. Lower valleys and gorges remain accessible with cooler but manageable temperatures. The Dades and Todra Gorges are excellent. High-altitude trekking season is ending.

Temperatures are approximate ranges. Early November is warmer than late November. Our verdict is our own editorial judgement for travel that month.

November events and experiences

The Marrakech Film Festival, the olive harvest, first snow on the Atlas and the start of surf season.

Surfers in the water off Taghazout
Taghazout, where the surf season starts in November. Photograph: AJSPARK4444, CC BY-SA 4.0

  1. Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM)

    The Marrakech International Film Festival (Festival International du Film de Marrakech) is Morocco most glamorous cultural event. Founded in 2001 under the patronage of King Mohammed VI, it attracts A-list celebrities, acclaimed directors, and cinema professionals from around the world. Past honorees include Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Judi Dench, and Abbas Kiarostami. The festival screens dozens of Moroccan, African, and international films, with public screenings, masterclasses, and red carpet events transforming the city.

    When
    Late November / Early December (varies)
    Where
    Marrakech
    Cost
    Public screenings from 50 MAD / Gala events by invitation

  2. Olive Harvest Season

    November is the heart of the Moroccan olive harvest. The Meknes-Fes region, the Rif Mountains, and the Souss plain near Agadir are Morocco major olive-producing areas. Millions of olive trees are harvested by hand, and the first cold-pressed oils of the season appear in markets and cooperatives. Visiting a pressing cooperative to see traditional and modern extraction methods and taste fresh oil is worth a detour in November. The Meknassi olive variety produces particularly fine oil.

    When
    October - December (peaks November)
    Where
    Meknes, Fes Region, Rif Mountains
    Cost
    Free to observe / Cooperative visits from 50 MAD / Fresh oil from 80 MAD per liter

  3. First Snow on Atlas Peaks

    The first snowfall on the Atlas peaks is one of November most dramatic natural events. Toubkal (4,167m), Mgoun (4,071m), and the surrounding high peaks receive their first dusting of snow, creating a stunning contrast with the warm-toned valleys below. The snow line typically sits above 3,000m in November, leaving lower valleys and gorges accessible. From Marrakech, the snow-capped Atlas are visible on clear days, creating a remarkable backdrop to the Red City.

    When
    Mid to Late November (varies)
    Where
    High Atlas Mountains
    Cost
    Free (viewing from distance) / Atlas day trips from Marrakech from 400 MAD

  4. Surf Season Opens in Earnest

    November marks the start of Morocco prime surf season. Atlantic swells increase dramatically as winter storms track across the North Atlantic, delivering consistent waves to the Moroccan coast. Taghazout, south of Agadir, becomes the epicenter of global surf culture with waves ranging from beginner-friendly beach breaks to expert-level point breaks. Surf camps and schools ramp up operations, and the international surf community descends on the coast.

    When
    November - March
    Where
    Taghazout, Essaouira, Sidi Ifni, Imsouane
    Cost
    Surf lesson from 350 MAD / Board rental from 150 MAD per day / Surf camp from 800 MAD per night (all-inclusive)

Festival dates vary annually. Check official sources for confirmed 2026 schedules.

Best destinations in November

Focus on the interior cities, the Sahara and the southern coast. The north is wet.

Marrakech

November suits travelers who dislike crowds. Daytime temperatures of 18-22 degrees are ideal for exploring the medina, souks, and gardens without jostling for space. Low-season prices mean riads that charge from 1,000+ MAD in peak season offer rooms from 500-700 MAD. The Marrakech International Film Festival (if it falls in late November) adds glamour and cultural energy.

Highlights
Uncrowded souks, comfortable Jemaa el-Fnaa, Bahia Palace, Majorelle Garden, rooftop dining, Film Festival, hammam season
Budget
Riads from 400 MAD/night, meals from 35 MAD, guided tour from 250 MAD

Sahara Desert (Merzouga & Zagora)

The Sahara in November offers a more intimate experience than the busier October season. Daytime temperatures of 20-25 degrees are comfortable, though nights drop to 8-12 degrees requiring warm layers. The lower tourist numbers mean you may have dune sunrises nearly to yourself. Desert camps often offer November discounts.

Highlights
Erg Chebbi sunrise, quiet camel treks, stargazing in cold clear skies, Gnawa music, desert silence
Budget
Desert tour from Marrakech from 1,000 MAD (2 days), luxury camp from 2,000 MAD/night

Essaouira

November Essaouira trades the fierce summer wind for a moodier, more atmospheric experience. Occasional Atlantic mists roll through the medina, creating ethereal photography opportunities. The surfing season kicks off with increasing swells. Seafood is at its best, and the medina creative community is in full autumn swing with gallery openings and studio visits.

Highlights
Atmospheric medina, surf season start, Gnawa music, seafood at the port, art galleries, uncrowded ramparts
Budget
Riads from 300 MAD/night, seafood lunch from 50 MAD, surf lesson from 350 MAD

Fes

November is one of the most rewarding months to visit Fes. The medina is genuinely uncrowded, allowing you to explore the 9,000 streets at your own pace and connect with artisans who have time to demonstrate their crafts. The cooler temperatures (15-19 degrees) make the medina comfortable, and the olive harvest in the surrounding countryside adds a seasonal dimension. Fireside dinners in historic riads are quintessentially November.

Highlights
Uncrowded Fes el-Bali, artisan workshops, Chouara Tanneries, olive harvest excursion, fireside riad dining
Budget
Riads from 350 MAD/night, guided tour from 300 MAD, olive oil cooperative visit from 50 MAD

Agadir & Taghazout

The southern Atlantic coast is Morocco warmest region in November, with Agadir seeing 20-24 degrees and plenty of sunshine. Taghazout surf season is opening with increasingly consistent swells. The beach resort vibe continues while the rest of Morocco cools down. This is the best November destination for sun-seekers and surfers alike.

Highlights
Beach days in warmth, surf season start, Souss-Massa National Park, Agadir kasbah, Paradise Valley
Budget
Hotels from 350 MAD/night, surf camp from 800 MAD/night all-inclusive, meals from 40 MAD

Ouarzazate & Draa Valley

The gateway to the Sahara is particularly beautiful in November. The date harvest concludes in the Draa Valley palm oases, temperatures are mild (15-22 degrees), and the dramatic kasbahs and gorges are bathed in warm autumn light. Ouarzazate Atlas Studios offer a fascinating visit. The Dades and Todra Gorges are excellent for hiking in cooler conditions.

Highlights
Ait Benhaddou, Atlas Studios, Dades Gorge, Todra Gorge, Draa Valley, last dates of the season
Budget
Hotels from 300 MAD/night, Atlas Studios from 60 MAD, gorge day trip from 500 MAD

What to pack for November

Warm clothes for the evenings, waterproofs and layers.

  1. Warm layers and a proper jacket

    November evenings across Morocco are genuinely cool (8-15 degrees in most regions). A warm jacket, sweater, and long trousers are essential. For Sahara nights (8-12 degrees) and Atlas visits (near freezing), pack thermal layers.

  2. Rain jacket and compact umbrella

    November marks the start of the rainy season, particularly in northern Morocco. A packable waterproof jacket is essential. A compact umbrella is practical for medina visits where narrow alleys funnel rain.

  3. Warm sleepwear for desert nights

    Sahara desert camps can drop to 8-10 degrees overnight in November. Most camps provide blankets, but pack warm sleepwear and thick socks. A hot water bottle (or a Nalgene bottle filled with hot water) is a desert traveler secret.

  4. Sun protection (still needed)

    Despite cooler temperatures, Morocco November sun can still burn, especially in the Sahara and at altitude. Pack SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days.

  5. Comfortable waterproof shoes

    Medina cobblestones become slippery in rain. Waterproof walking shoes with good grip are invaluable in November. Pack hiking boots if visiting the Atlas or gorges. Flip-flops for hammams.

  6. Scarf and warm hat

    A warm scarf serves double duty as wind protection, cultural covering, and evening warmth. A warm hat is essential for Atlas excursions and early-morning Sahara sunrises when temperatures can be near freezing.

Budget tips for November

November is one of the cheapest months to visit Morocco.

  1. Low-season riad prices are the best of the year

    November is low season across Morocco (except during the Film Festival). Riads drop prices 25-40 percent. Premium Marrakech riads from 500-700 MAD per night instead of from 1,000-1,500 MAD. Book directly with riads for the best rates — many waive booking platform fees.

  2. Fly on budget carriers for rock-bottom fares

    November is one of the cheapest months to fly to Morocco from Europe. Ryanair, easyJet, and Transavia offer fares to Marrakech and Fes from major European cities. Midweek flights are particularly cheap. Book 4-6 weeks ahead for the best deals.

  3. Negotiate everything harder in low season

    With fewer tourists, shopkeepers, guides, and taxi drivers are more willing to negotiate. Souk prices can be bargained down further than in peak season. Tour guides offer competitive rates for private tours. Riad owners may offer free upgrades or extras for direct bookings.

  4. Take advantage of surf camp packages

    November is early surf season in Taghazout and Essaouira. Surf camps offer introductory packages to fill beds before the December-February peak. Week-long all-inclusive camps (accommodation, meals, lessons, board rental) from 3,500-5,000 MAD — exceptional value.

  5. Visit Sahara midweek for best camp prices

    Desert camps offer lower rates for midweek stays in November. A Tuesday-Wednesday overnight in a quality camp can cost 30-40 percent less than a Friday-Saturday stay. Some camps offer 2-for-1 deals or free upgrades in quieter periods.

  6. Warm up with Morocco cheapest comfort food

    November is harira season — the hearty Moroccan soup of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices served everywhere from 10-20 MAD per bowl. Street stalls sell roasted chestnuts, warm msemen flatbreads, and steaming mint tea. The most comforting and cheapest eating of the year.

Insider tips for November

  1. November rain creates stunning photography

    Rain-slicked medina streets reflect lantern light and create dramatic compositions. Moody skies over the Atlas and coast add atmosphere that clear-sky summer photos lack. Pack a weather-sealed camera or protective cover and embrace the conditions.

  2. Riads with fireplaces are November luxury

    Many traditional riads have working fireplaces in their salons. After a day exploring cool medinas, returning to a fire-warmed riad with mint tea is a good end to a November day. Ask about fireplaces when booking — not all riads have them.

  3. The olive harvest is an immersive experience

    Visit the olive groves around Meknes, Fes, or the Rif Mountains during November to see the harvest in progress. Many cooperatives welcome visitors for tastings and tours. The fresh cold-pressed oil of the season is grassy and peppery, nothing like supermarket oil.

  4. Desert dawn in November is magical but cold

    November Sahara sunrises over the dunes are among the most beautiful of the year, with cold clear air creating crisp visibility. But temperatures at dawn can be 5-8 degrees. Wear every warm layer you brought and wrap up for the camel ride. The reward is worth the cold.

  5. Surf season is starting — catch the early waves

    November marks the beginning of Morocco’s surf season. Atlantic swells are building but not yet at the powerful winter peak. This makes November ideal for intermediate surfers who want good waves without December-January intensity. Taghazout and Imsouane are the hotspots.

  6. Pack for four seasons in one day

    November Morocco can deliver sunshine, rain, wind, and cold in a single day. Layering is essential. Start the morning bundled up, peel layers as the sun warms, carry a rain jacket just in case, and bundle up again as evening falls. Versatility is key.

Sample 9-day November itinerary

Marrakech, the Sahara, Fes and the coast.

  1. Days 1-3

    Marrakech: Low-Season Luxury at Budget Prices

    Morning
    Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech. Settle into your riad (from 400 MAD/night — rooms that cost double in peak season). Walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa, noticeably less crowded and more enjoyable in November. Bahia Palace (from 70 MAD) without the usual queues.
    Afternoon
    Day 2-3: Majorelle Garden and YSL Museum (from 150 MAD combined) at a leisurely pace. Souk exploration with more relaxed bargaining — vendors have time for conversation. Cooking class (from 400 MAD) to learn tagine and pastilla preparation. Hammam (from 100 MAD) — perfect November activity.
    Evening
    Dinner in a riad courtyard or by the fireplace (from 150 MAD). If your trip coincides with the Film Festival, attend a public screening. November Jemaa el-Fnaa is atmospheric with steam rising from food stalls in the cool evening air (meals from 30 MAD).

  2. Days 4-5

    Atlas Mountains & Sahara Transit

    Morning
    Day 4: Drive to the Sahara via the Atlas. November views of the first snow on high peaks against clear skies are spectacular. Ait Benhaddou (from 20 MAD), lunch in Ouarzazate (from 50 MAD). Continue to Merzouga or Zagora.
    Afternoon
    Day 4-5: Camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes for sunset (included in most tours). The November desert is peaceful with fewer tourists. Arrive at camp, enjoy Berber music and dinner. Cold, clear November skies are good for stargazing.
    Evening
    Night in desert camp (from 700 MAD in November low season). Wake early for sunrise — bundle up warmly as dawn temperatures can be 5-8 degrees. The morning light on the dunes in cold clear air is among the most beautiful sights in Morocco.

  3. Days 6-7

    Fes: Uncrowded Medina & Olive Country

    Morning
    Day 6: Full-day in Fes el-Bali medina (guided tour from 300 MAD). November crowds are minimal, allowing genuine exploration. Al Quaraouiyine, Chouara Tanneries (from 20 MAD), artisan workshops where craftsmen have time to demonstrate their work.
    Afternoon
    Day 7: Excursion to olive groves and cooperatives between Meknes and Fes. See the harvest in progress, taste fresh-pressed oil, and visit the Roman ruins at Volubilis (from 70 MAD).
    Evening
    Fireside dinner in a Fes riad — many historic riads light fires in their salons during November. Multi-course Fassi feast (from 200 MAD).

  4. Days 8-9

    Coast: Surfing or Southern Sun

    Morning
    Option A: Essaouira for atmospheric medina walks and early surf season. Morning mist through the ramparts creates moody photography. Surf lesson on the beach (from 350 MAD). Option B: Agadir/Taghazout for Morocco warmest November weather.
    Afternoon
    Essaouira: Port seafood lunch (from 50 MAD), medina art galleries, Gnawa music venues. Taghazout: Surf sessions as Atlantic swells build, beach time in 22-degree warmth, Paradise Valley day trip (from 200 MAD).
    Evening
    Final evening: seafood dinner on the coast (from 70 MAD).

9-day budget summary (per person)

Budget
From 4,500-7,500 MADHostels, street food, buses, shared desert tour
Mid-range
From 11,000-17,000 MADRiads, restaurants, private desert camp, guided tours
Luxury
From 22,000-38,000 MADBoutique hotels, private tours, luxury camps, fine dining

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is November a good time to visit Morocco?

November is an excellent choice for the right type of traveler. If you prioritize lower prices, fewer crowds, authentic cultural experiences, and do not mind cooler temperatures and occasional rain, November delivers outstanding value. Marrakech and the interior cities are pleasantly cool (15-22 degrees), the Sahara is comfortable by day (20-25 degrees though cold at night), and unique experiences like the olive harvest, surf season opening, and first Atlas snow add seasonal charm. It is less ideal for beach holidays (except Agadir) or high-altitude Atlas trekking.

What is the weather like in Morocco in November?

November weather is cooler than autumn months but still mild by European standards. Coastal cities: 17-22 degrees with 4-7 rainy days. Interior cities (Marrakech, Fes): 15-22 degrees with occasional showers. Sahara: 12-25 degrees with cold nights. Atlas Mountains: 2-12 degrees with first snow on high peaks. Northern Morocco (Tangier, Rif) is the wettest. Southern coast (Agadir) is the warmest and driest. Pack layers and a rain jacket.

How cold does it get in Morocco in November?

The coldest November temperatures are in the Atlas Mountains, where overnight lows near freezing (0-2 degrees) are possible above 2,000m. In the Sahara, nights drop to 8-12 degrees. In cities like Fes and Marrakech, overnight lows of 8-12 degrees are common. Coastal cities stay milder at 12-15 degrees overnight. Daytime temperatures remain comfortable in most regions — the cold is primarily an evening and nighttime concern. Warm layers and a good jacket are essential.

Is November too cold for the desert?

Not at all — November days in the Sahara are comfortable at 20-25 degrees, perfect for camel treks, dune exploration, and camp activities. Nights are cold (8-12 degrees at best, 5 degrees at dawn) and require warm layers, but most desert camps provide heavy blankets and some offer heated tents. The cold clear skies make November stargazing exceptional. Pack thermal sleepwear, warm socks, and a fleece or down jacket for early morning and evening.

What is the Marrakech International Film Festival?

The FIFM (Festival International du Film de Marrakech) is one of Africa most prestigious film festivals. Founded in 2001 under royal patronage, it screens international and Moroccan films, hosts masterclasses with acclaimed directors, and attracts Hollywood and world cinema stars. Public screenings are affordable (from 50 MAD), and free outdoor screenings sometimes occur in Jemaa el-Fnaa. The festival typically falls in late November or early December. It transforms Marrakech atmosphere with red carpets, celebrity sightings, and cultural events.

What should I pack for Morocco in November?

Pack warm layers: a proper jacket, sweaters, and long trousers for cool evenings and mornings. A rain jacket and compact umbrella for northern and coastal areas. Sun protection for sunny days (still strong UV). Comfortable waterproof walking shoes. For Sahara trips: thermal sleepwear, warm socks, a fleece, and a warm hat. For the Atlas: proper hiking gear if trekking, plus cold-weather layers. A versatile scarf for warmth and cultural sensitivity.

Continue planning your Morocco trip