What is the best time to visit Morocco?
Many people from around the world visit Morocco every year to enjoy its history, nature, and culture. When is the best time to visit Morocco? The answer depends on what you want to do. In this article, we will explain the different seasons, what the weather is like, and which months are best for sightseeing, hiking, and relaxing on the beach. This guide uses simple words so everyone can understand.
Morocco's Climate and Seasons
Morocco has four seasons, just like Europe and North America:
Spring – March to May
Summer – June to August
Autumn (Fall) – September to November
Winter – December to February
The weather changes depending on where you are. The coast is cooler, the inland cities are hotter, and the mountains can be cold. The Sahara Desert can be very hot during the day and cold at night.
Sunset in Rabat
Spring (March to May) – Best Time for Most Activities
Spring is one of the best times to visit Morocco. The weather is warm but not too hot. Flowers bloom, the mountains are green, and the cities are full of life.
Weather:
Warm days and cool nights
Average temperatures: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Why Visit in Spring?
Great weather for walking in cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen
Good time for hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Desert trips are more comfortable
Fewer crowds than in summer
Gardens and nature are beautiful
Popular Events:
Rose Festival in El Kelaa M’Gouna (May)
Sacred Music Festival in Fes (late spring)
Tip: Bring a light jacket or sweater for the evening.
Summer (June to August) – Good for the Coast, but Very Hot Elsewhere
Summer in Morocco can be very hot, especially in cities like Marrakech, Fes, and in the desert. But it is a good time to visit the Atlantic coast, where the air is cooler.
Weather:
Hot to very hot in most places
Coastal cities like Essaouira and Agadir: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
Inland cities and the desert: up to 45°C (113°F) or more
Why Visit in Summer?
Great beach weather in places like Agadir, Essaouira, and Tangier
Long days with lots of sunshine
Best time for swimming and water sports
What to Avoid:
Long walks or desert trips during the daytime in hot cities
Hiking in the middle of the day
Tip: Drink lots of water, wear light clothes, and avoid going out in the hottest part of the day.
Autumn (September to November) – Another Great Season to Visit
Autumn is also a great time to visit Morocco. The weather becomes cooler after the summer heat. This season is perfect for exploring cities, hiking, and visiting the desert.
Weather:
Pleasant and comfortable
Temperatures: 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
Why Visit in Autumn?
Great time for sightseeing and walking
Desert weather is ideal for camel treks and camping
Clear skies and fewer tourists than in spring
Popular Events:
Dates Festival in Erfoud (October)
Tanjazz Festival in Tangier
Tip: Bring layers of clothing, as mornings and nights can be cooler.
Winter (December to February) – Good for Cities and Snow in the Mountains
Winter in Morocco is mild in most cities but cold in the mountains. If you want to explore culture or try skiing in Africa, this season is for you.
Weather:
Mild days, cold nights
Cities like Marrakech and Agadir: 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
Mountains: Snow and freezing temperatures
Desert: Cold at night, cool during the day
Why Visit in Winter?
Fewer tourists and better prices in cities
Nice weather for walking in southern cities
Good time for skiing in Oukaimeden (High Atlas Mountains)
Beautiful views of snow-covered mountains
Tip: Pack warm clothes, especially if visiting the mountains or desert.
Best Time by Activity
1. Best Time to Visit the Cities:
Cities like Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, and Chefchaouen are best in spring and autumn. These months are not too hot or too cold, and you can enjoy walking through medinas (old city areas), markets, and museums.
2. Best Time for the Desert:
The Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga) is best visited in October to April. Summer is too hot. Winter is good, but nights are very cold.
Spring (March–April) and Autumn (October–November) offer the best desert experiences, with camel rides and camping under the stars.
3. Best Time for Hiking:
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains is best in May to June and September to October. These months have clear skies and comfortable temperatures. In summer, it can be too hot at lower altitudes, and in winter, there is snow at the top.
4. Best Time for the Beach:
The coast has the best weather in summer. Cities like Essaouira, Agadir, and Asilah are perfect from June to August for swimming and relaxing.
Top 3 Questions About the Best Time to Visit Morocco
1. What is the most popular time to visit Morocco?
The most popular times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is good for walking, sightseeing, and exploring different parts of the country.
2. Is Morocco too hot in the summer?
Yes, some places like Marrakech and the Sahara Desert can be very hot in summer. But the Atlantic coast stays cool and is a great place to visit during this time.
3. Can I visit Morocco in winter?
Yes. Cities like Marrakech, Agadir, and Essaouira have mild winters. You can also enjoy skiing in the Atlas Mountains or desert trips during the day, though it gets cold at night.
Month-by-Month Quick Guide
MonthWeatherBest ForJanuaryCool/mild, snowCities, mountains (snow sports)FebruaryCool/mildCities, early desert tripsMarchWarmer, spring startCities, desert, hiking startsAprilWarm and greenBest month for everythingMayPleasant and brightSightseeing, nature, desertJuneHot inland, nice coastBeach, early mountain hikesJulyVery hotBeach holidays onlyAugustVery hot inlandCoastal citiesSeptemberWarm and sunnyDesert, cities, hikingOctoberMild and beautifulDesert trips, festivalsNovemberCooler nightsCities, desert, hikingDecemberCold in mountainsCities, skiing, quiet travel
Final Tips
Book early if you are visiting in spring or autumn – these are popular times.
Avoid summer if you don’t like the heat, unless you plan to stay near the sea.
Check local festivals – Moroccan festivals are colorful and exciting.
Pack the right clothes – bring layers. Mornings and evenings can be cool even in spring.
Travel light and stay hydrated, especially in hot months.
Use local guides for desert or mountain trips for a safer experience.
When Should You Visit Morocco?
The best time to visit Morocco depends on what you want to do. If you like warm weather, beautiful nature, and fewer crowds, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are perfect.
For beach lovers, summer is a good choice—just avoid the hot cities. If you enjoy quiet streets, snow-covered mountains, and cheaper prices, winter might be ideal for you.
No matter the season, Morocco has something special to offer. Its friendly people, colorful markets, tasty food, and unique landscapes will make your trip unforgettable.
