Things to Do in Rabat in November

November Weather in Rabat

20°C (69°F) High Temp

11°C (51°F) Low Temp

94 mm (3.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season temperatures - daytime highs of 20°C (69°F) are ideal for walking Rabat's medina and coastal paths without summer's 35°C+ (95°F+) heat
Dramatic Atlantic storm watching from Kasbah des Oudayas - November brings spectacular wave displays against the fortress walls, best viewing 4-6pm
Pomegranate and orange harvest season - local markets overflow with fresh fruit, and traditional autumn dishes like tagine bil rumman appear on restaurant menus
Fewer tourists than peak March-May season means shorter queues at Hassan Tower and more authentic interactions in Rabat's souks

Considerations

Unpredictable rainfall with 10 rainy days monthly - afternoon showers can last 45-90 minutes and often arrive without warning, disrupting outdoor plans
Ocean swimming becomes challenging - Atlantic water temperature drops to 18°C (64°F), too cold for most visitors despite sunny days
Some rooftop restaurants and cafés reduce hours or close terraces during rainy periods, limiting dining options with views

Best Activities in November

Rabat Archaeological Museum and Indoor Cultural Sites

November's variable weather makes indoor cultural exploration ideal. The newly renovated Archaeological Museum showcases Morocco's pre-Islamic history, while the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern Art offers climate-controlled comfort during rain showers. Perfect for the 10 rainy days you'll encounter, with most visits taking 2-3 hours each.

Booking Tip: Museum passes (typically 60-100 MAD per site) can be purchased on-site. Visit Tuesday-Sunday 9am-6pm. Book guided cultural tours 5-7 days ahead through certified guides - expect 400-600 MAD for half-day tours covering multiple sites.

Kasbah des Oudayas Storm Watching and Café Culture

November brings dramatic Atlantic weather perfect for experiencing this UNESCO site's clifftop position. Watch powerful waves crash below while sipping mint tea in sheltered café terraces. The 70% humidity creates mystical morning mist effects around the kasbah walls, best captured 7-9am.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for independent visits. Guided walking tours cost 200-350 MAD and should be booked 3-5 days ahead. Café terraces stay open during light rain but close during heavy downpours.

Hassan Tower and Mausoleum Complex Photography Tours

November's dramatic skies and variable lighting create exceptional photography conditions at this iconic minaret. Cooler 20°C (69°F) temperatures allow comfortable exploration of the entire complex, while lower tourist numbers mean unobstructed shots of the 200 columns.

Booking Tip: Photography tours typically cost 300-500 MAD for 2-3 hours. Book specialist photo guides 1 week ahead during November. Best light occurs 8-10am and 4-6pm. Entry fee 30 MAD per person.

Rabat Medina Covered Souk Shopping

The medina's covered sections provide perfect shelter during November's 10 rainy days, while cooler weather makes navigating narrow alleys comfortable. Autumn harvest brings seasonal items like argan oil, new leather goods, and traditional wool djellabas perfect for the dropping temperatures.

Booking Tip: Shopping tours cost 250-400 MAD for half-day experiences including haggling lessons. Book 2-3 days ahead. Bring 500-1000 MAD cash for purchases. Avoid Fridays when many shops close for prayers.

Rabat to Casablanca Day Trips

November's mild weather makes the 87 km (54 mile) journey to Casablanca comfortable, with train connections every 2 hours. Explore Hassan II Mosque and Casablanca's Art Deco architecture while based in quieter Rabat. Cooler temperatures make walking Casablanca's boulevards pleasant.

Booking Tip: Day trip tours typically cost 600-900 MAD including transport and guide. Book 1 week ahead for guided options. Independent train travel costs 37 MAD each way, journey time 1 hour. See current tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Hammam and Wellness Experiences

November's 70% humidity and temperature fluctuations make traditional hammam treatments especially appealing. Warming steam baths provide perfect relief from cool, damp weather. Many hammams offer seasonal treatments using autumn ingredients like pomegranate and argan oil.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammam sessions cost 80-200 MAD, luxury spa versions 400-800 MAD. Book hotel-based spas 2-3 days ahead. Public hammams accept walk-ins but bring your own towels and toiletries. Sessions last 45-90 minutes.

November Events & Festivals

Mid to Late November

Mawazine Festival Preparation Season

While the main festival occurs in spring, November sees venue preparations and smaller cultural events throughout Rabat as organizers test sound systems and stages. Local musicians perform pre-festival concerts at various venues.

Throughout November

Olive Harvest Festivals in Surrounding Regions

Traditional olive pressing demonstrations and tastings occur in villages within 50 km (31 miles) of Rabat. Local cooperatives open their doors for harvest celebrations featuring fresh olive oil and regional specialties.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood - November's 94 mm (3.7 inches) of rain often comes with Atlantic winds making umbrellas ineffective

Layering pieces for 9°C (16°F) temperature swings - lightweight sweater and cotton t-shirts for variable conditions

Closed-toe waterproof shoes - medina stones become slippery when wet, and you'll encounter puddles on 10 rainy days

SPF 50+ sunscreen despite clouds - UV index of 8 remains high year-round in Morocco, reflected off wet surfaces

Quick-dry clothing fabrics - 70% humidity means cotton takes longer to dry if caught in rain

Portable phone charger - shorter daylight hours and more indoor time increase device usage

Light wool scarf - evening temperatures drop to 11°C (51°F), especially near the Atlantic coast

Ziplock bags for electronics - protect cameras and phones during unexpected downpours

Comfortable walking socks - extra pairs essential as feet stay damp longer in humid conditions

Small backpack with rain cover - for carrying layers and protection during weather changes

Insider Knowledge

Locals time outdoor activities for 10am-3pm window when rain is least likely - morning and late afternoon showers are most common in November

Restaurant terraces often close without notice during rain - always have an indoor dining backup plan, especially for dinner reservations

Petit taxis become scarce during downpours - download Careem app or plan extra walking time between destinations on rainy days

November is prime negotiation season in souks as vendors prepare for slower winter months - expect 30-40% better deals than peak tourist season

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming North African weather means constant sunshine - pack for European-style autumn weather with frequent rain

Planning beach days or ocean activities - Atlantic water at 18°C (64°F) and frequent wind make coastal lounging uncomfortable

Booking outdoor restaurant tables in advance - weather unpredictability makes flexible dining plans essential