Scorching hot and dusty, August in Marrakech is for sun lovers. Average temperatures range between 20 and 38 degrees and there is little, if any, rain. Thus, locating a place to stay with a proper swimming pool (many riads have little more than ornamental or ‘plunge’ pools) becomes an essential requirement.
Tempting as it is to stay put in these conditions, enjoying the comforts and facilities of one’s hotel, venturing out to explore the ‘ochre city’ and its attractions is well worth the effort as there’s plenty to see and do.
Marrakech August 2017 Events
Oued Ed-Dahab Day – The 14th August is a national holiday commemorating the day on which the southern province of Oued Ed-Dahab was recovered from Mauritania.
Revolution of the King & the People – Celebrated on the 20th, this national holiday marks the end of French colonial power in Morocco in 1953.
Moroccan Youth Festival - Coinciding with King Mohammed VI’s birthday, this nationwide festival on 21st August celebrates and honours the youth of Morocco.
Atlas Electronic San Soda Music & Arts Festival – This 4-day festival, scheduled to run from 24th to 27th August, comprises performances by renowned local and international jazz artists, among others.
Other August events in Marrakech for which dates are not yet definite include the:
Ilmilchil Festival – Held in a village in the Atlas Mountains, this ‘marriage’ festival is celebrated with music, dancing, story-telling and feasting.
Setti Fatma Moussem – Taking place in mid-August, this annual Ourika Valley event (under an hour from Marrakech) is one of Morocco’s most important religious festivals. Festivities typically include a big agricultural fair, a souk/market with food stalls and games and, of course, a strong religious element.
Things to Do
If the heat and chaos of Marrakech becomes too much one can always escape, as do many locals, to the Atlas mountains and the relative calm and temperate conditions of the Ourika Valley with its waterfalls, picturesque villages and spectacular scenery.
Somewhere to Stay
Les Borjs de la Kasbah, 200m from the royal palace on the southern edge of the medina, offers a 10m swimming pool and spa, as well as a bar restaurant and comfortable lounges. Though only a short walk from the heart of the city, Les Borjs offers an agreeably exclusive and tranquil, atmosphere, with attentive personal service, making it the perfect base for visiting the bustling city while getting away from it all!