Things to Do in Tangier in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Tangier
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect walking weather with comfortable 22°C (71°F) highs - ideal for exploring the medina's maze-like alleys without overheating
- Ramadan often ends in early May 2025, creating a festive Eid al-Fitr atmosphere with traditional celebrations and extended restaurant hours
- Atlantic breezes keep humidity manageable despite 70% levels - unlike summer's stifling heat that makes afternoon exploration uncomfortable
- Tourist crowds are 40% lighter than summer peak, meaning shorter queues at Kasbah Museum and easier navigation through Petit Socco
Considerations
- Evening temperatures drop to 13°C (56°F), requiring layers for sunset terrace dining and late-night medina wandering
- May rainfall of 38mm (1.5 inches) across 10 days creates unpredictable afternoon showers that can disrupt outdoor market visits
- Atlantic fog can roll in unexpectedly, obscuring views from Café Hafa and making photography challenging 3-4 days per month
Best Activities in May
Medina Walking Tours and Artisan Workshop Visits
May's 22°C (71°F) afternoons are perfect for navigating Tangier's UNESCO medina without summer's exhausting heat. The maze of souks and riads stays comfortably cool, and post-Ramadan energy brings artisan workshops back to full activity. Carpet weavers, leather workers, and metalcraft specialists are eager to demonstrate techniques after the holy month's reduced schedule.
Cap Spartel and Caves of Hercules Excursions
May's clear mornings offer stunning Atlantic views from Africa's northwestern tip at Cap Spartel lighthouse. The 14km (8.7 mile) coastal drive is comfortable in mild temperatures, and the mythical Caves of Hercules provide cool refuge during warmer afternoon hours. UV index of 8 requires protection, but isn't the brutal summer intensity that makes this route unbearable.
Chefchaouen Day Trips via Rif Mountains
May's moderate temperatures make the 2-hour mountain drive to Morocco's blue pearl city comfortable, with the Rif Mountains displaying spring wildflowers. Chefchaouen's blue-painted medina photographs beautifully in May's soft light, and the 600m (1,969 ft) elevation provides cooler afternoon temperatures than summer's scorching heat.
Traditional Hammam and Spa Experiences
May's variable weather with 10 rainy days makes indoor cultural experiences valuable. Traditional hammams offer authentic Moroccan wellness rituals, with May's moderate humidity making the steam treatments more comfortable than summer's oppressive heat. Post-Ramadan period often brings special treatment packages and extended hours.
Strait of Gibraltar Ferry Crossings and Spanish Day Trips
May's moderate seas make the 35-minute ferry to Tarifa or 1-hour crossing to Algeciras more comfortable than winter's rough waters. The international experience adds European flair to your Moroccan adventure, with duty-free shopping and Spanish tapas as bonuses. Clear May mornings offer spectacular views of both continents.
Sunset Camel Trekking on Achakkar Beach
May evenings provide perfect conditions for beach camel rides, with comfortable 18-20°C (64-68°F) temperatures and dramatic Atlantic sunsets. The experience combines traditional transport with stunning coastal scenery, while avoiding summer's intense heat that makes afternoon beach activities uncomfortable.
May Events & Festivals
Eid al-Fitr Celebrations
Marking the end of Ramadan (expected early May 2025), this three-day festival transforms Tangier with family gatherings, traditional sweets, new clothing, and extended restaurant hours. Streets fill with celebratory music, children in festive dress, and special meals featuring lamb, couscous, and honey pastries.
Tanjazz International Festival
This annual jazz festival typically brings international and Moroccan artists to venues across the city, from intimate riad courtyards to the Grand Socco. The event showcases fusion of traditional Moroccan music with contemporary jazz, often featuring outdoor concerts perfect for May's mild evenings.