Best Time to Visit Morocco: A Complete Seasonal Guide
Choosing the best time to visit Morocco depends on what you want to experience. From the golden dunes of the Sahara to the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, Morocco's diverse landscapes mean weather conditions vary dramatically across regions. This guide breaks down each season so you can plan the perfect Moroccan adventure.
Quick Overview: Morocco's Seasons at a Glance
Season | Months | Weather | Best For
Spring | March - May | Mild, occasional rain | Overall best time, all regions
Summer | June - August | Hot inland, pleasant coast | Beach destinations, mountains
Autumn | September - November | Warm, dry | Desert trips, cultural festivals
Winter | December - February | Cool to cold, snow in mountains | Budget travel, fewer crowds
Spring (March - May): The Ideal Season
Spring is widely considered the best time to visit Morocco. Temperatures are comfortable across most regions, landscapes are lush and green, and crowds are manageable before the summer rush.
What to Expect
- Marrakech & Fes: Daytime highs of 20-28C (68-82F)
- Sahara Desert: Warm days, cool nights—perfect for camping
- Atlas Mountains: Snow melting, wildflowers blooming
- Coastal towns: Pleasant but breezy
Why Choose Spring
Spring offers the best balance of good weather and moderate tourist numbers. The desert is comfortable for overnight stays, the imperial cities are warm but not oppressive, and the countryside is at its most beautiful.
Note: April can bring occasional rain showers, particularly in the north. Pack a light rain jacket.
Summer (June - August): Heat and Coastal Escapes
Summer brings intense heat to Morocco's interior. Marrakech, Fes, and the Sahara Desert regularly exceed 40C (104F), making outdoor exploration challenging during midday hours.
Where to Go in Summer
- Essaouira: Atlantic breezes keep temperatures around 22-25C (72-77F)
- Chefchaouen: Mountain altitude provides relief from the heat
- Atlas Mountains: Ideal for trekking and escaping lowland temperatures
- Agadir: Popular beach resort with consistent sunshine
Summer Considerations
- Ramadan may fall during summer months (dates vary yearly)
- Sahara Desert trips are uncomfortable and not recommended
- Air conditioning is essential for inland cities
- Longer daylight hours mean more sightseeing time
Autumn (September - November): Desert Season
Autumn rivals spring as one of the best times to visit Morocco. The summer heat subsides, making it prime season for Sahara Desert expeditions. This is when the desert truly comes alive with comfortable temperatures for camel treks and overnight camping.
Autumn Highlights
- September: Still warm, transition month
- October: Ideal desert conditions, pleasant city temperatures
- November: Cooler evenings, harvest season in rural areas
Best Autumn Experiences
- Multi-day Sahara Desert tours from Marrakech
- Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
- Date harvest season in the Draa Valley
- Fewer crowds at major attractions
Note: October is peak season for desert tours. Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially for Merzouga and Erg Chebbi.
Winter (December - February): Budget-Friendly Travel
Winter is Morocco's low season for tourism, bringing cooler temperatures and the best deals on accommodation and tours. While not ideal for every activity, winter has its own appeal.
Winter Weather by Region
Region | Daytime Temp | Notes
Marrakech | 12-18C (54-64F) | Cool, occasional rain
Fes | 10-15C (50-59F) | Cold mornings, mild afternoons
Sahara | 5-20C (41-68F) | Cold nights, warm days
Atlas Mountains | Below 0C (32F) | Snow, skiing possible
Essaouira | 14-18C (57-64F) | Mild but windy
Winter Benefits
- Significantly lower prices on hotels and riads
- No crowds at popular sites like Jardin Majorelle
- Comfortable temperatures for city exploration
- Unique opportunity for Atlas skiing at Oukaimeden
Winter Drawbacks
- Desert nights are cold (near freezing)
- Shorter daylight hours
- Some mountain passes may close due to snow
- Rain possible in northern regions
Best Time by Activity
Sahara Desert Tours
Best: October - November, March - April Avoid: June - August (extreme heat)
The shoulder seasons offer warm days and cool nights—ideal for sleeping under the stars in a desert camp.
Trekking the Atlas Mountains
Best: April - May, September - October Possible: June - August (higher altitudes) Avoid: December - February (snow and ice)
Spring brings wildflowers and waterfalls. Autumn offers stable weather and clear skies.
City Exploration (Marrakech, Fes, Meknes)
Best: March - May, October - November Possible: December - February (cooler but pleasant) Challenging: June - August (extreme heat)
Beach Holidays
Best: June - September Possible: April - May, October
Essaouira and Agadir offer the best coastal experiences, with summer being peak beach season.
Festivals and Events to Consider
Morocco's cultural calendar can influence when you choose to visit:
- Ramadan: Dates shift yearly. Many restaurants close during the day, but evenings are festive.
- Eid al-Fitr: End of Ramadan celebrations
- Rose Festival (Kelaat M'Gouna): May
- Gnaoua World Music Festival (Essaouira): June
- Marrakech Popular Arts Festival: July
Regional Climate Summary
Morocco spans multiple climate zones:
- Mediterranean (North): Mild winters, warm summers
- Continental (Interior): Hot summers, cold winters
- Desert (South/East): Extreme temperature swings
- Atlantic (Coast): Moderate year-round, influenced by ocean breezes
- Mountain (Atlas): Cold winters with snow, mild summers
Practical Tips for Any Season
- Layer clothing: Temperatures can swing 15-20C between day and night
- Book ahead: Peak seasons (spring/autumn) require advance reservations
- Check Ramadan dates: Plan accordingly if traveling during this period
- Pack sun protection: Morocco has strong UV rays year-round
- Bring versatile footwear: Cobblestones in medinas, sand in deserts, trails in mountains
Final Verdict: When Should You Go?
For first-time visitors: April or October offer the most versatile conditions for experiencing all of Morocco.
For budget travelers: December - February provides the best value with fewer tourists.
For desert lovers: Late September - early November is prime Sahara season.
For beach seekers: June - August delivers the best coastal weather.
Morocco rewards visitors year-round. The key is matching your travel dates to your priorities—whether that's comfortable temperatures, lower costs, specific activities, or cultural events.
