What's the April weather like in Marrakech?
With its glorious spring climate April in Marrakech becomes a riot of colour as spectacular displays of bougainvillea, hibiscus and other flowering shrubs burst out across the city. This month sees around 10 hours of daily sunshine with temperatures averaging 18˚c (lows of 12˚ and highs of 24˚). There is very little risk of prolonged or heavy rain (barely 30 mm), most of it falling in just a few days.
April is thus the ideal time for sightseeing within the city, taking in its gardens, excellent museums and other major attractions without having to contend with the oppressive heat of summer.
This is also the perfect time to take a trip up into the ever-present Atlas Mountains to discover the lush valleys against a backdrop of soaring, snow-capped peaks and impressive waterfalls, Portuguese fortresses and ancient Berber villages. During snow melt, especially, the upland scenery is enhanced by vistas of mountain flora in full bloom. Many such trips, with transportation and a professional guide provided, will also include little-known scenic locations with impressive waterfalls and lush valleys dotted with fruit farms.
Under normal circumstances April would see the Marrakech tourist season in full swing although, sadly, that’s not the case this year, or indeed last. However, here, for the benefit of those who like to plan ahead, is a reminder of what is usually on offer in and around Marrakech during April with particular reference to its festivals and other major events.
Marathon des Sables
The Sand Marathon is a 240 km athletic event staged across the scenic, desert terrain outside the city of Ouarzazate, a frontier town south of the Atlas. Attracting hundreds of long-distance runners from around the world, this gruelling race through the northern Sahara has become one of the biggest events in the Moroccan sporting calendar. The race takes place in 6 gruelling stages:
· IRHS to Khermou (29 km)
· Khermou to Jebel El Otfal (35 km)
· Jebel El Otfal to Taourirt Mouchanne (40 km)
· Taourirt Mouchanne to Oued El Jdaid (82 km)
· Oued El Jdaid to Erg Znaigui (42 km)
· Erg Znaigui to Merzouga (21 km)
Competitors confront this supremely challenging foot race across the rugged terrain whilst carrying backpacks containing everything they’re likely to need, including food, first aid kits and bivouac equipment. One athlete whom spectators look out for is the Moroccan ultramarathon champion, Lahcen Ahansa, who has already won the race an astonishing 10 times. More information : http://marathondessables.com/en/
Grand Prix Hassan II
One of the main sporting events in Morocco during April is the Grand Prix Hassan II tennis tournament. Held in Casablanca, this clay court ATP World Tour competition attracts some of the world’s top professionals. There is a regular train service to Casablanca from Marrakech.
Marrakech Air Show
While the Aero Expo held at the military air base in Marrakech is designed primarily to enable exchanges between over 150 exhibitors, mostly military and civilian aircraft manufacturers and space industry players from France, Italy, the USA and other countries around the world, one full day is also set aside for flying displays to thrill spectators from the general public.
The International Nomad Festival
One of the most eagerly anticipated April events takes place at M'hamid El Ghizlane, on the edge of the Sahara. Over three days, the event provides a fascinating opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture of the region’s nomadic peoples.
In addition to art and craft exhibitions, the programme also includes music, song and dance as well as on-stage performances of both poetry and storytelling by local and international artists. Local colour is reflected in a couple of unusual sporting events, namely the “ellaz” camel race and games of ‘nomadic hockey’!
Printemps Musical des Alizés
Coastal Essaouira hosts this popular event at the end of April featuring a range of classical and chamber music performances at Dar Souiri's Bab Marrakech Square.
Still on a musical theme, the desert town of Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara (an 8-hour drive over the Atlas from Marrakech) hosts the International Worldwide Music Festival.
Mad Jazz Festival
Sponsored by the Institut Francais de Marrakech, the 2-day event that is the ‘Mad Jazz Festival’ features jazz in all its forms including unique fusions of traditional Moroccan music and modern jazz styles as well as electronic, classic and European jazz. More information from the festival’s official Website.
Alwan'Art
This colourful international festival of street entertainment sees the public squares and streets of Marrakech, Tahanaoute and Tamesloht transformed into carnival locations animated by acrobats, dancers and fire jugglers, musicians, storytellers, peddlers and many others. Colourful and exciting, this is one event not to be missed.
Motor Sport.
Motorsport enthusiasts might wish to schedule their Moroccan visit to coincide with the World Touring Car Race held in Marrakech in the first week of April. The Marrakech Atlas Etape is a cycle race held at the end of the month providing both professionals and amateurs with a choice of three routes (60, 104 and 140 km) from Marrakech to the ski resorts of the Atlas Mountains and back.
International Magic Festival – Marrakech, early April. This unusual event takes place at several venues include the main Djemaa el Fna square and the city's Royal Theatre. A variety of international artists perform magic routines all over the city, including some restaurants.
Djemma el Fna
One of the main draws of Marrakech at any time of year is the Djemma el Fna, the central square throbbing with life day and night. One of the city's oldest marketplaces, the huge open square is packed with street performers of all kinds as well as food vendors. As evening draws in the square is transformed into a giant al fresco eaterie where all kinds of street food are served alongside gatherings of musicians, acrobats and other entertainers. With its bustling atmosphere and delicious smells, the frenetic atmosphere of the extraordinary Place Jemaa is a unique experience that cannot be missed.
The Perfect Base
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Combining modern comforts and traditional charm, close to the royal palace and one step removed from the madding crowds of central Marrakech, Les Borjs de la Kasbah with its pool and spa, restaurant and bar, is an ideally comfortable and tranquil base from which to visit the many attractions of the Marrakech medina and to enjoy a host of exciting events. Book your stay now.