Morocco, a land of vibrant culture, captivating landscapes, and rich history, attracts travellers with its irresistible charm. However, the allure of visiting Morocco’s capital, Marrakesh, often goes hand-in-hand with bustling crowds, scorching summer heat, and thick, humid air. But what if there was a way to experience the magic of Marrakesh without the throngs of tourists and sweltering temperatures? The answer lies in the beauty of the off-season.
Marrakesh without crowds
“Winter and early spring paint Morocco in a delightful light. Imagine comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to the low 20s°C (59°F to 68°F). The air is crisp and clean, offering a refreshing contrast to the summer’s heaviness. Dry skies ensure uninterrupted exploration, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the country’s wonders.
To help craft your perfect Moroccan escape, WAW Editor Elena Leo spoke with Cuong Nguyen, a top luxury travel advisor at Colletts Travel. Cuong, who recently returned from a visit to the highly anticipated Nobu Marrakech (add this to your travel bucket list!), brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the table.
And if you wondered why we should trust Cuong, here are the facts: Since 1983, Colletts Travel, part of the Global Travel Collection, has been a pioneer in providing luxury travel with a personal touch. With over 35 years of experience curating stress-free luxury travel, Colletts Travel’s advisors combine expertise with a personal touch to craft unforgettable, bespoke experiences.
Reason 1: The weather
Moroccan weather is fantastic in the winter, ranging between a comfortable 20-24 degrees with mild evenings too. You benefit from much less busy cities and, of course, lower rates for flights and hotels. I also find that hotels in Morocco are fully staffed, even in low seasons, ensuring the best levels of service all year round.”
Top 5 hotels in Marrakesh right now:
The Oberoi, Marrakech: epitomises Mughal-inspired grandeur, offering a tranquil oasis with lush gardens and personalised service. USP: Palatial luxury and impeccable Indian hospitality.
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech: A haven of serenity, nestled amidst sprawling Moorish gardens, featuring luxurious accommodations and family-friendly amenities. USP: Blends traditional Moroccan design with modern comforts, ideal for families.
Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech: An embodiment of understated luxury, boasting spacious private villas with plunge pools and a focus on wellness experiences. USP: ultra-private and ultra-luxurious, with a focus on tranquility and well-being.
Nobu Hotel Marrakech: injects a touch of contemporary buzz into the city’s rich tapestry, offering signature Nobu dining and a vibrant pool scene. USP: Modern luxury with a touch of Japanese flair and world-renowned Nobu cuisine.
Royal Mansour, Marrakech: The epitome of opulent Moroccan design, featuring intricately decorated riads (traditional Moroccan houses) with private plunge pools and unparalleled service. USP: Ultimate in indulgence, offering a taste of Moroccan royalty with personalised riads and exceptional service.
Reason 2: Easy restaurant bookings
“Another benefit of visiting in the winter is that you won’t need to book months in advance for the more popular restaurants, as you would tend to from April onwards. Executive chefs are also brilliant with their local sourcing of seasonal ingredients, so even if you’ve seen Morocco before, you will have a completely different gastronomic experience in the winter season. For example, there are types of funghi sourced from the Atlas Mountains that you can only find in winter.”
Best restaurants in Marrakesh right now:
Nomad: A trendsetter that ignited Marrakech’s culinary scene. This chic, multi-level restaurant offers stunning rooftop terraces overlooking the Rahba Lakdima spice square. Savour modern takes on Moroccan classics like Agadir calamari with harissa, all under the magical glow of fairy lights. (USP: contemporary Moroccan cuisine with a stylish ambiance)
Le Jardin: A hidden gem tucked away from the city’s buzz. This dreamy garden setting offers a truly Moroccan experience. Indulge in flavorful tagines and pastillas under the night sky, accompanied by the soft sounds of water and music. (USP: Enchanting garden ambiance with authentic Moroccan fare.)
La Villa des Orangers: A serene oasis in the heart of the Medina. This Relais & Chateaux property boasts a luxurious restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features both Mediterranean and Moroccan dishes with a modern twist, including delicacies like candied lamb shoulder and roasted gambas. (USP: Upscale ambiance with a fusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine)
Le Marocain: Modern Moroccan gastronomy in a luxurious setting. Moroccan tiles, shaded courtyards, and flourishing gardens set the scene for Chef Rachid Agouray’s culinary creations. Expect an abundance of spices and innovative dishes like Fes-style spiny lobster tagine and Mrouzia-style rabbit with pear confit. (USP: luxurious ambiance with a focus on modern Moroccan cuisine)
Restaurant Dar Essalam: Opulent Moroccan tradition meets modern fine dining. This exquisite restaurant boasts a series of distinct dining rooms, each reflecting the building’s rich history. The menu features refined Moroccan specialties, including a tempting selection of tagines. (USP: Opulent setting with traditional Moroccan cuisine)
Reason 3: Attractions are open
“In terms of attractions, you can do everything you would in other seasons, including camel riding, strolling the markets in Marrakesh’s Medina, hot air balloon trips, and much more. For those looking for a bit more adventure or something different, Le Bedouin Afagay Camp is an incredible luxury camp in the desert. They take glamping to the next level and put on thrilling activities throughout the week. It truly is the crème de la crème!”
About Le Bedouin Afagay Camp: Le Bedouin Agafay Camp redefines desert chic. Located at the gateway to Morocco’s Agafay Desert, this luxury camp offers a sophisticated escape from the Marrakech bustle. Ditch the crowds for plush tents (or suites, for the truly discerning) and unwind by the pool. Savour authentic Moroccan cuisine on-site, then conquer the dunes on a camel adventure (optional, but highly recommended). Stunning mountain views and genuine Moroccan hospitality guarantee an unforgettable desert experience.
by Elena Leo, WAWW Director of Editorial
