Things to Do in Rabat in March

March Weather in Rabat

20°C (68°F) High Temp

9°C (49°F) Low Temp

64mm (2.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperature range 9-20°C (49-68°F) - comfortable for walking without summer heat exhaustion that hits April-October
Spring blooms transform the city's gardens - Jardin d'Essais and Chellah ruins showcase wildflowers and green landscapes at their peak
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs drop 30-40% compared to peak winter months while weather remains excellent
Extended daylight hours (11+ hours) provide more sightseeing time compared to December-February's shorter days

Considerations

Unpredictable rain showers on 10 days throughout the month - can disrupt outdoor plans without proper preparation
Strong Atlantic winds (15-25 km/h or 9-16 mph) make coastal activities less pleasant and require layered clothing
Tourist facilities begin reducing winter hours but haven't switched to summer schedules - some attractions have limited availability

Best Activities in March

Kasbah of the Udayas Exploration

March's mild temperatures make walking the narrow cobblestone streets comfortable without summer's oppressive heat. Spring light creates perfect photography conditions for the blue and white painted walls. Crowds are manageable compared to peak season, allowing peaceful exploration of the 12th-century fortress.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is ideal, but cultural walking tours provide deeper context. Tours typically cost 200-400 MAD and should be booked 3-5 days ahead. Look for certified guides through official tourism offices. See current guided tour options in the booking section below.

Hassan Tower and Mausoleum Tours

Cool March weather is perfect for exploring this outdoor archaeological site without sun exposure concerns. The 8 UV index requires protection but isn't overwhelming. Spring conditions provide clear visibility for photography of the 44m (144 ft) minaret and marble mausoleum details.

Booking Tip: Combine with nearby archaeological sites for half-day tours (300-500 MAD). Book guided tours 1 week ahead for historical context. Independent visits are free but guides provide essential historical background. Check current tour availability below.

Chellah Necropolis Garden Walks

March showcases Chellah's botanical beauty at its peak - wildflowers bloom throughout the Roman and Islamic ruins. Comfortable temperatures allow extended exploration of the 1.2 km (0.7 mile) site without fatigue. Storks nest actively in March, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 70 MAD. Early morning visits (9-10 AM) offer best lighting and fewer crowds. Botanical-focused tours cost 250-400 MAD. Book specialist guides 5-7 days ahead through local operators. See current nature tour options below.

Medina Artisan Workshop Experiences

March's comfortable indoor temperatures make workshops pleasant - no summer heat affecting leather, textile, or pottery work. Artisans are active preparing for spring tourist season, offering more availability for authentic learning experiences. Ramadan timing varies, but March typically avoids major disruptions.

Booking Tip: Workshop experiences range 400-800 MAD for 2-4 hour sessions. Book 7-10 days ahead as artisan availability is limited. Look for workshops including material costs and take-home pieces. Avoid Friday afternoons for better artisan availability.

Bouregreg River Marina Activities

March winds can be strong (15-25 km/h or 9-16 mph) but create ideal conditions for wind-powered activities. Cooler temperatures make boat trips comfortable without summer heat reflection off water. River levels are optimal after winter rains but before spring flood concerns.

Booking Tip: Boat trips cost 150-300 MAD for 1-2 hours. Wind conditions vary daily - morning departures (9-11 AM) typically have calmer conditions. Book day-of based on weather. Licensed operators required for safety. Check current river tour options below.

Salé Pottery Quarter Discovery

March's moderate temperatures make the 20-minute walk across Bouregreg Bridge to Salé comfortable. Traditional pottery workshops operate at full capacity preparing for tourist season. Cool weather means kiln areas aren't oppressively hot, allowing closer observation of firing processes.

Booking Tip: Independent exploration is free via bridge walk or tram. Guided pottery tours cost 200-350 MAD including demonstrations. Book through Rabat tourism office 3-5 days ahead. Combine with lunch in Salé medina for full day experience.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

International Women's Film Festival

Annual celebration of women filmmakers with screenings throughout Rabat's cultural venues. Features North African and international productions with director discussions. Provides cultural immersion beyond typical tourist activities.

Early to Mid March

Spring Almond Blossom Period

While not an organized event, March marks peak almond blossom season in Rabat's parks and surrounding areas. Jardin d'Essais and Chellah grounds showcase spectacular white and pink blooms best experienced early morning or late afternoon.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket - March rain showers are brief (15-20 minutes) but frequent, occurring on 10+ days

Layered clothing system - temperature swings from 9°C (49°F) morning to 20°C (68°F) afternoon require adaptability

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - cobblestone streets in Kasbah become slippery when wet from Atlantic humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even with cloud cover, particularly reflective near white medina walls

Light scarf or windbreaker - Atlantic coastal winds average 15-25 km/h (9-16 mph) making temperature feel 3-5°C (5-9°F) cooler

Compact umbrella - afternoon showers are unpredictable and street vendor umbrellas cost 50+ MAD

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable during active sightseeing

Closed-toe shoes for medina exploration - narrow streets accumulate moisture and debris from 64mm (2.5 inches) monthly rainfall

Modest long sleeves for mosque visits - March temperatures are perfect for respectful coverage without overheating

Small daypack with waterproof compartment - protects electronics and documents during unexpected showers

Insider Knowledge

Local cafés serve seasonal mint tea with fresh herbs in March - try evening terraces around 6 PM when temperatures cool but daylight remains

Avoid Friday afternoons (1-4 PM) for medina shopping - many artisans close for prayer and family time, limiting authentic workshop experiences

March is pre-Ramadan preparation period - stock up on snacks as some restaurants may have irregular hours if Ramadan falls in April

Use the new Rabat-Salé tramway Line 2 extension (operational since 2024) for efficient travel between Hassan Tower and Bouregreg Marina - saves 30+ minutes walking

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for evening temperatures - 9°C (49°F) lows catch visitors unprepared who pack only for 20°C (68°F) daytime highs

Scheduling outdoor activities without rain backup plans - 10 rainy days means 33% chance of showers disrupting fixed itineraries

Assuming summer operating hours - many attractions still follow winter schedules in March with reduced hours or closed Mondays