Things to Do in Tangier in October

October weather, activities, events & insider tips

October Weather in Tangier

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season temperatures - warm enough for beach time at 23°C (74°F) but cool enough for medina exploration without the summer heat that reaches 35°C+ (95°F+)
Minimal rainfall with only 66mm (2.6 inches) spread across 10 days - brief afternoon showers that clear quickly, unlike winter's heavier precipitation
Ideal hiking weather in the Rif Mountains - clear visibility, comfortable temperatures for the 8km (5-mile) trek to Chefchaouen, and autumn colors in the Atlas foothills
Post-Ramadan festival season with authentic local celebrations - locals are in celebratory mood, traditional foods return to full availability, and cultural events resume normal schedules

Considerations

Higher humidity at 70% makes it feel warmer than the actual temperature - expect sticky conditions especially in the narrow medina alleys where air circulation is limited
Unpredictable weather patterns - can shift from sunny 23°C (74°F) to 16°C (60°F) with clouds within hours, making daily planning challenging
Tourist season pickup means 20-30% higher accommodation prices compared to September, and popular riads start booking up 6-8 weeks in advance

Best Activities in October

Kasbah Museum and Fortress Walking Tours

October's comfortable temperatures make the steep climbs through Tangier's historic Kasbah manageable. The 2km (1.2-mile) circuit from the medina to the fortress offers stunning views over the Strait of Gibraltar without summer's punishing heat. Morning tours at 9-10am avoid afternoon humidity peaks. The Sultan's Palace gardens are particularly beautiful with October's softer light.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified guides - tours typically cost 200-400 MAD ($20-40) for 3-4 hours. Look for guides registered with the Ministry of Tourism. Best to start early morning before 10am to avoid crowds and heat buildup.

Strait of Gibraltar Boat Excursions

October offers calm seas with excellent visibility for dolphin watching and Spain coastline views. Water temperature is still warm at 20°C (68°F) from summer heating, while air temperatures are perfect for deck time. This is the last month before Atlantic weather patterns bring rougher seas and reduced wildlife activity.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead for half-day excursions typically costing 350-600 MAD ($35-60). Choose morning departures 9am-1pm for calmest conditions. Verify boats have life jackets and insurance through port authorities.

Cap Spartel and Hercules Caves Coastal Tours

Perfect weather for the 14km (8.7-mile) coastal drive to Africa's northwestern tip. October's clear skies provide spectacular Atlantic sunset views from the lighthouse. Cave temperatures remain constant at 18°C (64°F), offering relief from midday humidity. The dramatic coastline photography is enhanced by October's golden light.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost 300-500 MAD ($30-50) including transport. Book through hotels or certified tour operators 3-5 days ahead. Afternoon departures 2-6pm are ideal for sunset timing. Verify vehicle condition for coastal road safety.

Chefchaouen Day Trips

October is prime season for the 2-hour mountain drive to the Blue Pearl. Comfortable temperatures make the steep medina exploration enjoyable, while clear skies showcase the Rif Mountains' autumn colors. The 8km (5-mile) hiking trails around the city are accessible without summer heat stress.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 600-900 MAD ($60-90) including transport and guide. Book 10-14 days ahead as October is peak season for this route. Departure times 7-8am maximize daylight. Choose operators with mountain driving experience and proper insurance.

Tetouan and Martil Beach Combination Tours

October's moderate temperatures make the UNESCO World Heritage medina of Tetouan comfortable for walking, while nearby Martil Beach remains swimmable at 20°C (68°F) water temperature. The 60km (37-mile) round trip offers mountain and coastal scenery without summer's oppressive heat.

Booking Tip: Day tours typically cost 400-700 MAD ($40-70) with transport. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators. Morning departures 8-9am allow full day exploration. Verify beach access is included and check current swimming conditions.

Medina Food Walking Tours

October's comfortable temperatures make 3-4 hour walking food tours through narrow medina alleys manageable. Traditional tagines, pastries, and mint tea are particularly enjoyable when not competing with summer heat. Local markets have full seasonal produce availability including October's pomegranates and late figs.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 250-450 MAD ($25-45) for 3-4 hours including tastings. Book 3-5 days ahead through certified guides. Morning tours 10am-2pm avoid peak afternoon humidity. Verify food safety standards and dietary accommodation options.

October Events & Festivals

Mid October

Mawazine Music Festival Satellite Events

Smaller concerts and cultural performances happen in Tangier venues as part of Morocco's major music festival circuit. Local artists perform traditional and contemporary fusion music in intimate settings throughout the medina and modern city venues.

Early to Mid October

Pomegranate Harvest Celebrations

Local markets celebrate the pomegranate harvest with special displays, tastings, and traditional preparations. Family-run shops offer fresh pomegranate juice and seasonal sweets. Not a formal festival but a cultural moment worth experiencing in the Socco markets.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - October's 10 rainy days bring brief showers lasting 15-30 minutes, mostly in late afternoon

Layering pieces for 7°C (13°F) temperature swing - morning starts at 16°C (60°F), peaks at 23°C (74°F), with cool evenings

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable in medina's narrow, poorly ventilated alleys

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 is still high, especially with reflection off white medina walls and coastal areas

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - medina's uneven stones become slippery when wet from afternoon showers

Light scarf or wrap for mosque visits and conservative medina areas - also useful for dusty coastal winds near Cap Spartel

Waterproof phone case or bag - protect electronics during sudden showers and boat excursions with salt spray

Cash in small bills (20-100 MAD notes) - many traditional vendors don't accept cards, especially during market transactions

Portable water bottle - staying hydrated in 70% humidity is crucial, and reduces plastic waste from constant bottle purchases

Light sweater for evening coastal areas - sea breezes can drop temperature 3-5°C (5-9°F) below city center temperatures

Insider Knowledge

Locals take their main meals earlier in October - lunch around 12:30pm, dinner by 7:30pm - to avoid eating during the day's humidity peaks. Follow this pattern for better restaurant availability and fresher food.

The afternoon prayer call (Asr) around 3:30pm coincides with October's typical shower time - many shops close briefly, making it perfect timing to wait out rain in a café rather than continuing sightseeing.

Hotel air conditioning bills spike in October due to humidity - negotiate rates that include utilities, or choose riads with traditional ventilation systems that work better in shoulder season weather.

Local buses and grand taxis fill up faster on rainy days - book petit taxis through your accommodation in advance for day trips to avoid being stranded during weather changes.