The best time to visit Morocco: a season-by-season guide
UK Morocco · · 2 min
Spring and autumn suit most itineraries, but the right month depends on where you are going — the desert, the mountains, the coast or the imperial cities.
Morocco is a year-round destination, but its climate varies a great deal between the Atlantic coast, the inland cities, the High Atlas and the edge of the Sahara. Here is what each season is like, so you can match the month to the trip you have in mind.
Spring (March to May)
For most itineraries this is the sweet spot: warm days in Marrakech and Fes, green valleys in the Atlas and comfortable conditions in the desert. It is also a popular time, so book riads and desert camps early for Easter and May half-term.
Summer (June to August)
- Inland it gets very hot: Marrakech and Fes regularly pass 35 °C in July and August, and the desert is hotter still.
- The Atlantic coast is much milder. Essaouira stays comparatively cool and breezy, which makes it a good summer base.
- If you travel in summer, plan sightseeing for early morning and evening and keep the middle of the day for rest.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures ease after the summer heat, making autumn another excellent time for the cities, trekking and the Sahara. October half-term is busy, so plan ahead.
Winter (December to February)
- Days are often sunny and pleasant in Marrakech and on the south coast, but evenings are cool.
- Nights in the desert and the mountains can drop close to or below freezing, and the High Atlas can have snow — pack warm layers.
- It is a good season for city breaks with fewer crowds.
Ramadan
The dates of Ramadan move about eleven days earlier each year. Travelling during Ramadan is perfectly possible: sites stay open, though some cafés close during the day and opening hours can change. Evenings after sunset are lively and atmospheric.
Plan around your dates
Our trip planner adds seasonal notes for the dates you choose, and each destination guide explains the best months to visit that place.
