Best Time to Visit Morocco
Morocco is a year-round destination, although each of its regions has ideal times to visit. For example, Tangiers in northern Morocco has a pleasant Mediterranean climate year-round, while travelers interested in experiencing the Sahara desert will want to stick to spring or autumn to avoid extreme temperatures.
Morocco stretches from the Mediterranean coast to the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, with many different geographies in between. Therefore, climate and weather can vary greatly depending on where you spend your time. September to May works out well for most travelers, and those who prioritize desert travel should stick to winter and spring. If you’re traveling in the summer and want to escape the heat, Tangier in the north and Essaouira on the Atlantic coast are good options.
Facts
# Mid-September to the end of May is the best time to visit Morocco
# In March and April, the weather is warm, the peaks are snow-capped, and wildflowers spread across the plains.
# Avoid the Sahara during warmer temperatures from mid-June to mid-September
# Nights in mountains and deserts can be surprisingly cool any time of year
When is the best time to visit Morocco?
You can visit Morocco year-round as long as you take into account the climate of its different regions and plan your trip accordingly. For example, the Sahara Desert should be avoided from June to September, when temperatures can be very high. But it’s a great time to visit the royal cities of northern Morocco, the Atlantic coast, or hike in the high altitudes of the Atlas Mountains. Pack accordingly and you can visit comfortably at any time of the year. For travel planning inspiration, check out our trips and itineraries.
Tangier has a Mediterranean climate with warm/hot summers, plenty of sunshine and little rain. July is the warmest month, with daytime highs around 85°F/29°C. Winters (October to March) are mild and warm but cloudy. January is the coldest month, with an average maximum daily temperature of about 65°F/20°C.
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Morocco in March
Morocco in April
Morocco in May
Marrakech and South Central Morocco: Best in late winter, spring and autumn
Marrakech in April
Marrakech has a continental climate (away from the ocean). This means that overall rainfall is low, while sunshine hours are high. July is the warmest month, with an average daily high of about 99°F/40°C. Temperatures in October and November, as well as in March, April and May, are very pleasant for travelers. The coldest month is December, with an average high daily temperature of about 68°F/15°C. At night, it can be cold during the mid-winter months. Winter is the rainiest time, October to March; November is the wettest month.
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Morocco in December
Morocco in January
Morocco in February
Atlantic Coast: The Best of Summer
Essaouira
Essaouira is close to the atlantic ocean and has a maritime climate. August is the warmest month, with an average maximum daily temperature of about 80°F/25°C. January is the coldest month, with an average maximum daily temperature of about 60°F/20°C. Winter is the time of the most rainfall. November is by far the wettest month. There is very little rainfall in June and July.
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Morocco in June
Morocco in July
Morocco in August
Morocco in September
Moroccan Sahara Desert: Best in late fall and early spring
Merzouga
Merzouga has a hot desert climate. However, the temperature changes between summer and winter are surprising. August is the warmest month, with an average maximum daily temperature of about 110°F/45°C. December is the coldest month, with an average maximum daily temperature of about 65°F/10°C. March, April and May, as well as October and November are very pleasant months.
Rainfall is low throughout the year. However, there are occasional rainy days, and this is most likely in November. On very hot days, there may be a risk of severe convective storms, but they are usually short-lived.
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Morocco in October
Morocco in November