Things to Do in Tangier in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Tangier

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Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Mild temperatures perfect for walking the medina - 17°C (62°F) highs mean you can explore narrow alleys for hours without overheating, unlike scorching summer months
Dramatic Atlantic storms create spectacular coastal views - February brings powerful swells that crash against the Kasbah walls, offering photographers incredible shots of foam spraying 15-20 m (49-66 ft) high
Almond trees bloom across the Rif Mountains - day trips to Chefchaouen showcase pink and white blossoms that peak in February, creating Instagram-worthy mountain backdrops
Lowest accommodation prices of the year - riads drop rates 40-60% compared to peak spring season, with quality options available from 200-400 MAD ($20-40) per night

Considerations

Unpredictable rainfall disrupts outdoor plans - 10 rainy days means always carrying an umbrella, and sudden downpours can flood medina streets for 1-2 hours
Atlantic beaches too cold for swimming - water temperature drops to 16°C (61°F), making beach lounging uncomfortable except on rare sunny afternoons
Many rooftop terraces close early - restaurants and cafes shut outdoor seating by 7 PM due to cool evening temperatures and wind

Best Activities in February

Medina Walking Tours and Artisan Workshops

February's cool temperatures make medina exploration comfortable for 4-6 hours daily. Rain creates atmospheric steam rising from spice markets, and artisans work indoors on traditional crafts. Leather tanneries smell less intense in cooler weather, and narrow alleys provide natural wind protection.

Booking Tip: Book through licensed guides at tourist information centers (150-250 MAD for 3-hour tours). Avoid peak lunch hours 12-2 PM when many shops close. Reference booking widget for current guided tour options.

Hercules Caves and Cape Spartel Coastal Tours

February storms create dramatic Atlantic views from Africa's northwestern tip. Caves stay dry while offering protection from wind and rain. Lighthouse visits provide spectacular photo opportunities with crashing waves below. Clear post-rain air offers 20-30 km (12-19 mile) visibility across to Spain.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost 300-500 MAD including transport from city center. Book morning departures (9 AM) for best weather windows. See current tour options in booking section below.

Chefchaouen Day Trips

February brings almond blossoms to the Rif Mountains surrounding the blue city. Cool mountain air (5-8°C cooler than Tangier) makes hiking comfortable. Post-rain clarity offers stunning valley views, and indoor blue-painted medina exploration stays comfortable regardless of weather.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 600-900 MAD from Tangier including transport and guide. Depart early (8 AM) for 2.5-hour mountain drive. Book through licensed operators - see current options in booking section below.

Traditional Moroccan Cooking Classes

Perfect indoor activity for rainy February days. Winter seasonal ingredients like preserved lemons, oranges, and warming spices feature prominently. Classes typically run 4-5 hours including market visits (when dry) and full meal preparation in traditional riads with heated courtyards.

Booking Tip: Book 3-5 days ahead through riads or cultural centers (400-700 MAD per person). Morning classes work best to accommodate afternoon rain patterns. Reference booking widget for current cooking class options.

Tetouan UNESCO World Heritage Site Tours

February's cool weather makes this 1-hour drive inland comfortable. The white city receives fewer tourists in winter, allowing authentic interactions with locals. Indoor mosque visits and covered souks provide shelter from occasional mountain showers while exploring Andalusian architecture.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 500-800 MAD including licensed guide and transport. Combine with visits to nearby Martil coast for variety. Book through registered tour operators - see current Tetouan tours in booking section.

Museum and Gallery Circuit

Tangier's museums offer perfect rainy day alternatives. Museum of Moroccan Arts in former sultan's palace stays comfortable year-round. American Legation Museum provides heated indoor exploration of diplomatic history. Contemporary art galleries in Ville Nouvelle showcase winter exhibitions by local artists.

Booking Tip: Most museums charge 10-30 MAD entry. Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays. Allow 2-3 hours per major museum. Purchase combined tickets at tourist office for 15% savings on multiple venues.

February Events & Festivals

Mid to late February

Almond Blossom Festival

Mountain villages around Tangier celebrate blooming almond trees with traditional music and local food stalls. Best experienced on day trips to Rif Mountain settlements where pink and white blossoms create stunning backdrops for cultural performances.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof walking shoes with good grip - medina stones become slippery when wet, and you'll walk 8-12 km (5-7.5 miles) daily on uneven surfaces

Compact umbrella plus lightweight rain jacket - February brings 10 rainy days with sudden downpours that last 30-90 minutes

Layering clothing for 8°C (14°F) temperature swings - morning starts at 9°C (48°F), afternoons reach 17°C (62°F), evenings drop quickly

Warm pajamas and socks - traditional riads have stone floors and minimal heating, nighttime temperatures feel colder than actual readings

Power bank and waterproof phone case - exploring medina for hours drains batteries, and rain protection essential for photos

Cash in small denominations - ATMs scarce in medina, and vendors prefer exact change especially during low tourist season

Antiseptic wipes - public restroom facilities limited during outdoor sightseeing, particularly important in rainy weather

Warm scarf or light wool wrap - Atlantic wind creates wind chill effect, especially near coastal attractions and Kasbah walls

Closed-toe shoes only - open sandals impractical due to cool temperatures and wet streets after rain showers

Small daypack with waterproof liner - protect purchases from sudden rain while keeping hands free for navigation and photos

Insider Knowledge

Locals drink hot mint tea constantly in February - join this ritual in covered cafes during rain showers, costs only 8-12 MAD and provides authentic cultural interaction

Friday afternoons see many medina shops close early for prayers, but this creates perfect photography opportunities with fewer crowds in narrow alleys

Hotel WiFi becomes unreliable during storms - purchase local SIM card at airport (100-150 MAD) for consistent internet access throughout your stay

Restaurant terraces offer discounted prices in February to attract customers - negotiate 20-30% off posted prices for outdoor seating during dry periods