Peak tourist seasons are best avoided if you want some peace and quiet during your vacation, especially if you’re visiting popular destinations across the Middle East and Africa. But that doesn’t mean those places are out of bounds entirely. Instead, hit them up in the off-season or the shoulder season, those sweet spots when the crowds and the ensuing mayhem have disappeared.
You’ll need to factor in the weather, which might not be as pleasant as during peak season, but you’ll still find plenty to do and keep you engaged in these off-season destinations in the Middle East and Africa. After all, when there are extraordinary cultural attractions, culinary scenes and outdoor activities to enjoy, the weather is often only as good or bad as you make it out to be.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
December – February
Rabat, Morocco
Perfect for a short break, Rabat, Morocco’s capital city, is a delight in the winter months. The weather can be cold and rainy in parts, but it’s a time when tourists dwindle and Rabat takes on an infectious mellowness.
Amble down the pathways inside the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a historical former fortress with whitewashed homes that sparkle against azure skies. In between the buildings, catch splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean.
On brisker days, find warmth indoors at the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Set in a stately white building, it brings together artworks of more than 200 Moroccan artists. Then indulge in a classic Moroccan pastime: sipping fragrant mint tea in a local teahouse and watching the world go by.
Choose the modern Rabat Marriott Hotel as your base to anchor your explorations of the city. The in-house spa offers a range of customized treatments to let you unwind and relax.
March – May
Nairobi, Kenya
Buzzing Nairobi sees a fair amount of rainfall in March, which sends the humidity levels soaring, but it’s a good time to tick off some city highlights and make the most of fewer crowds and lower costs.
Set up camp at the sleek and modern Sankara Nairobi, Autograph Collection, located in the Westlands — an upscale neighborhood that’s home to much of the city’s best dining, shopping and partying spots. About five minutes away, you’ll find the well-curated Nairobi National Museum, where you can delve deeper into the history of the region.
For a meal that comes with bragging rights, reserve a table at the hugely popular and sprawling Carnivore restaurant. Tuck into ostrich and crocodile meat skewered on Maasai swords and grilled over a charcoal fire pit. Along with the food, sip on “dawa” (which translates to “medicine” in Swahili), a Kenyan cocktail similar to the Brazilian caipirinha.
Cairo, Egypt
Known as a quintessential winter destination, Cairo loses none of its allure in the spring when the days get longer and temperatures begin a steady upward climb. The shoulder period of March to May sees fewer crowds, allowing you to explore the treasures of the Egyptian capital without having to watch every step and angle your camera to avoid people from spoiling the perfect picture.
Base yourself at The St. Regis Cairo, a regal hotel conveniently located downtown alongside the Nile. Take in the incredible views of the river over a meal or drink at La Zisa or Sirocco, two of five on-site eateries.
No Cairo itinerary is complete without a visit to see the logic-defying Pyramids of Giza, so tick that off your visitor’s bucket list first. Then go farther back in time as you explore the ruins of Saqqara, located about 25 miles outside the city.
In the peak of the day, escape indoors to see the unbelievable riches of The Egyptian Museum and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
When hunger strikes, queue up with local Cairenes for a bite of the carb-loaded goodness of koshary (the national dish of Egypt) at the popular, fuss-free Koshar Abou Tarek.
June – August
Cape Town, South Africa
Good-looking Cape Town sees rain and cold winds in the winter period, but don’t let it deter you from planning a vacation to this South African gem. There are plenty of mild sunny days interspersed among the more inclement ones — and lots of exciting things to look forward to.
For one, July and August are some of the best months to view whales, which flock to the shallow waters to mate and calf. Head out on a thrilling whale-watching expedition and come face-to-face with southern right, humpback and Bryde’s whales.
Milder weather can also mean ideal trekking conditions, so lace up those boots and head to the top of Table Mountain, carpeted with flowers and streams.
Settle into the centrally located and stylish AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront, within walking distance of the picturesque Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a working harbor and mixed-use development. Browse through boutique stores and markets, and enjoy a meal with glorious views of Table Mountain.
To view the world’s largest collection of African contemporary art, pop into Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA).
September – November
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
The days following the peak summer months can be oppressive in Ras Al Khaimah, but the heat certainly begins to lose its bite as winter approaches. Even if the difference feels microscopic under the harsh desert sun, the off-season fall period is a reliable time to score some sweet travel deals.
Escape into a cocoon of style, comfort and ultimate pampering at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. With water sports, nature tours, a spa and lovely sunset views, the beachfront resort is a treat no matter where you stay — but to really live it up, book a luxe tented villa complete with a private pool.
When you decide to emerge from your shell, set out in search of lustrous pearls. At the Suwaidi Pearl Farm, about a 45-minute drive north along the coast, learn about the fascinating world of pearl diving, once the mainstay of the region. Learn the intricacies of the trade, walk through a wooden dhow ship and try your hand at opening an oyster. You might just be lucky enough to find a pearl inside.
Muscat, Oman
Daytime temperatures in Oman can be stifling during the months of September, October and November, but come evenings, Muscat, the coastal capital, cools down remarkably.
Take in the stunning interiors of the striking Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with one of the largest chandeliers and handwoven carpets in the world.
Follow the locals and head to the Mutrah Corniche, a broad promenade skirting the Gulf of Oman. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch and catch mesmerizing views of the city known for its relaxed tempo and incredible hospitality.
Inside the Mutrah Souk (a popular attraction in Muscat), sip on sweet cardamom-infused tea, browse through stalls selling frankincense and souvenirs, and strike up conversations with friendly shopkeepers.
November is the best month to spot whale sharks in the waters around the Damaniyat Islands. A range of tour companies operate snorkeling and diving experiences in the area — sign up for one to explore the treasures of the ocean.Stay at JW Marriott Hotel Muscat in the shadow of Al Hajar Mountains and delight in achingly beautiful wadi views.
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