Marrakesh summers are intense. With temperatures soaring above 100°F (38°C) and UV indexes hitting extreme levels, protecting yourself from the sun is essential. Here’s a quick rundown to stay safe and comfortable:
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen: Apply 30 minutes before going out and reapply every 2 hours.
- Wear breathable, light-colored clothing: Opt for cotton or linen to stay cool.
- Cover your head and face: Use wide-brim hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and scarves.
- Plan your activities: Avoid peak sunlight hours (11 AM–4 PM).
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and try local mint tea.
- Take breaks in shaded areas: Explore gardens, riads, and covered markets.
- Care for your skin after sun exposure: Use aloe vera and moisturizers to soothe your skin.
How to Protect Yourself from the Sun
1. Use Strong Sunscreen
Marrakeshs summer heat is no joke, and standard sunscreen just won’t do. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ to shield yourself from both UVA and UVB rays. Thanks to the city’s high elevation and clear skies, UV exposure here is much stronger than at sea level.
Here’s how to apply it effectively:
- Put it on 30 minutes before heading outside.
- Use about 1 oz (2 tablespoons) for full-body coverage.
- Reapply every 2 hours, or right after swimming or sweating heavily.
- Pay extra attention to your face, neck, ears, and hands.
If you’re visiting outdoor spots like Jardin Majorelle or wandering through the medina, go for a water-resistant sunscreen. Look for formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients work well in intense heat.
For your face, pick a sunscreen designed specifically for facial use. These options are less likely to cause breakouts but still provide excellent UV protection for sensitive skin.
Pro tip: Store your sunscreen in a mini-fridge or an insulated bag. Heat can weaken its effectiveness, and applying cool sunscreen is a refreshing bonus in Marrakesh’s hot weather.
Protecting your skin is just one step. Up next, let’s talk about keeping your head and face covered to stay safe under the blazing sun.
2. Pick the Right Clothing
Wearing the right clothing in Marrakesh’s intense heat can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays.
Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. These materials not only help block UV rays but also wick away sweat, keeping you cool and dry. Loose-fitting styles are a great choice since they allow air to circulate, improving ventilation. Consider long-sleeve shirts paired with wide-leg pants or maxi skirts for a balance of coverage and comfort.
Stick to light-colored clothing – shades like white, beige, or pastels reflect sunlight and help you stay cooler. Dark colors, on the other hand, tend to absorb heat, making them less ideal for the scorching sun.
Dressing wisely in Marrakesh means choosing clothes that offer breathability, coverage, and protection from the sun. Up next, let’s discuss how to shield your head and face.
3. Protect Head and Face
Once you’ve picked breathable clothing, it’s time to focus on shielding your head and face from strong marrakesh summer
Start with a hat. Look for one with a brim that’s at least 4 inches wide to cover your face, ears, and neck. Hats made from natural materials like straw or cotton are great because they let your head stay cool while blocking harmful UV rays.
For your eyes, go with sunglasses labeled UV400 or those that promise 100% UV protection. Wraparound styles block sunlight from sneaking in on the sides, and polarized lenses are a solid choice to cut down glare from light surfaces often found in Marrakesh.
A lightweight scarf can be a game-changer. It offers flexible protection for your neck and lower face while letting air circulate. Stick to light-colored cotton or silk scarves – they reflect heat instead of soaking it up.
Don’t forget spots that are easy to miss, like your ears and neck. These areas are especially exposed during peak sunlight hours (10 AM to 4 PM). A hat with a neck flap or a well-placed scarf can provide the coverage you need.
When picking accessories for your face and head, think about:
- Coverage: Go for items that shield multiple areas at once.
- Breathability: Choose lightweight, airy materials.
- Comfort: Make sure you can wear them for long stretches.
- Practicality: Look for options that are easy to adjust as needed.
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4. Time Your Activities Well
Plan your outdoor adventures in Marrakesh for early mornings, before 11 AM, or late afternoons, after 3 PM. These hours help you avoid the strongest UV rays while still enjoying everything the city has to offer.
Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body in good shape during your explorations.
5. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Staying hydrated is just as important as wearing sunscreen or protective clothing when dealing with Marrakesh summers heat. Make it a habit to drink water regularly, especially if you’re spending time outside. A reusable water bottle is a great companion – stick to bottled or filtered water rather than tap water for safety.
For a local twist, try Marrakesh’s traditional mint tea (atay). It’s a refreshing way to keep hydrated and enjoy a bit of the city’s culture.
6. Take Breaks in Shaded Areas
Staying cool in Marrakesh’s summer heat isn’t just about sunscreen and protective clothing – it’s also about finding relief in shaded spots.
The city’s architecture and gardens are perfect for escaping the sun. Majorelle Garden is a standout, with its lush greenery and shaded walkways offering a natural retreat. Traditional riads, with their central courtyards, serve as cool, shaded havens – many even house cafes where you can relax with a drink.
For a mix of shopping and shade, head to the covered souks in the medina. These bustling markets not only offer cooler temperatures but also let you browse local goods. Another option is the Ben Youssef Madrasa courtyard, where history meets respite from the sun.
When planning your day, include stops at these shaded spots during peak sunlight hours. Sit down, hydrate, and enjoy the cooling design that reflects Marrakesh’s architectural charm, built to combat the intense marrakesh summers
Up next: tips for caring for your skin after sun exposure to round out your summer protection plan.
7. Care for Sun-Exposed Skin
Protecting your skin from the sun with clothing and sunscreen is step one, but taking care of it afterward is just as important to minimize damage. After spending time in the sun, give your skin the attention it needs right away.
Start with pure aloe vera gel to cool and hydrate your skin quickly and protect yourself from summers of marrakesh.
Here’s a simple post-sun routine to follow:
- Take a cool shower to bring down your skin’s temperature.
- Use an alcohol-free after-sun lotion generously to soothe your skin.
- Rehydrate with a moisturizer that contains vitamin E for added nourishment.
For delicate areas, look for products made with calming ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, or cucumber. These can help reduce irritation and keep your skin feeling refreshed.
Conclusion
Here’s how you can stay cool and safe while enjoying Marrakesh’s summer heat. Protect yourself from the blazing summers of marrakesh by sticking to these practical tips.
Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and bring along a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses. Schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. While exploring, take breaks in shaded areas around the city, and don’t forget to pamper your skin afterward with a soothing post-sun routine.
For more tips on traveling to Marrakesh, including seasonal guides, places to stay, and local insights, check out The Marrakesher. Their resources will help you plan an enjoyable and stress-free trip to this vibrant city, no matter the season.
