Morocco is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. The desert, the High Atlas, the coast and the imperial cities each have their own ideal season. This guide explains the weather through the year, the events to plan around and the best months for each type of trip.
The short answer
- Best overall: March to May and late September to November, with warm days and comfortable evenings almost everywhere.
- Sahara desert: spring and autumn. Summer afternoons are extremely hot; winter nights are cold.
- Walking in the High Atlas: spring to autumn. Winter brings snow at altitude.
- Atlantic coast: pleasant all year, and a good escape from the summer heat inland.
Marrakech through the year
Most trips start in Marrakech, so its climate is a useful guide. These are long-term averages:
| Month | Average high | Average low |
|---|---|---|
| January | 19°C | 7°C |
| March | 23°C | 11°C |
| May | 28°C | 15°C |
| July | 37°C | 21°C |
| September | 32°C | 19°C |
| November | 23°C | 11°C |
Source: WeatherSpark long-term averages for Marrakech, rounded. The desert, the mountains and the coast can be very different on the same day.
Season by season
Spring (March to May)
The favourite season for many travellers. Marrakech is warm without being hot, the countryside is at its greenest after the winter rains, and the High Atlas often keeps snow on its peaks into April. It is an excellent time for the Sahara, for walking and for combining several regions in one trip. It is also popular, so book desert camps and riads ahead.
Summer (June to August)
Inland Morocco is hot, with afternoons regularly in the high 30s in Marrakech and often above 40°C in the Sahara. Desert tours still run, with activities early in the morning and in the evening. Summer is a good time for the Atlantic coast, where Essaouira is often windy and much cooler than Marrakech, and for the mountains, which are cooler than the plains.
Autumn (September to November)
A second ideal season. September can still be hot inland, but October and November bring warm days, cooler nights and fewer crowds than spring. It is a very good time for the desert and for multi-day tours.
Winter (December to February)
Sunny, mild days in Marrakech and cold nights, especially in the desert, where temperatures can drop close to freezing. Snow falls in the High Atlas, which looks spectacular behind Marrakech; the Tizi n’Tichka pass occasionally closes for a short time after heavy snow, and the ski area at Oukaimeden opens when there is enough snow. Pack warm layers for evenings.
Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, many Moroccans fast from dawn to sunset. Tours run as usual and most hotels, riads and restaurants for visitors stay open, but some local cafés close during the day and opening hours can change. Evenings are lively, with special food after sunset. The dates move about 11 days earlier each year; Ramadan is expected to begin around early February in 2027, with the exact date set by the sighting of the moon.
Best time by type of trip
- A Sahara desert tour: March to May and September to November. See our 3-day Merzouga tour or our Merzouga guide.
- The Agafay Desert at sunset: all year, choosing late afternoon in summer. Read the best time to visit the Agafay.
- Walking in the High Atlas: April to October for village walks and treks; winter for snowy views. See our Atlas Mountains day trip guide.
- Imperial cities and Chefchaouen: spring and autumn are most comfortable for walking in the medinas.
- The coast: any time, and especially in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is Morocco too hot in summer?
Inland it is very hot from June to August, but you can still travel comfortably by starting early, resting at midday and spending time on the coast or in the mountains.
Is winter a good time to visit Marrakech?
Yes. Days are often sunny and mild, and it is a quieter time to visit. Bring warm clothes for the evenings, especially if you go to the desert.
When is the best time for a desert night?
Spring and autumn, when days are warm and nights are cool but not freezing.
Plan your trip
All our tours are private and can be adapted to the season, with early starts in summer and warmer accommodation in winter. See our Morocco tours, browse day trips or tell us your dates.
