When to visit Morocco. The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Time to Visit Morocco

A visit to Morocco is like stepping into a perfect blend of culture, adventure and breathtaking vistas. In Morocco, you will find beautiful beaches, old medinas packed with history and culture, rugged landscapes, delicious food and warm hospitable people.

With so much to see and do, planning your visit at the most ideal time of the year will ensure that your overall experience is perfect.

In this article, we'll take a look at the best time to visit Morocco and explore that further so that whatever your style and preferences of travel, you will understand what time works for you.

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marrakech sunrise morocco

Understanding Morocco's Climate

Morocco's climate is greatly influenced by it's diverse landscapes. Along the coast, the climate is influenced by both the Atlantic Ocean and Mediteranean sea. The Atlas Mountains stand tall from the surrounding while the Sahara Desert sits untamed and vast.

This mix of geography creates different climates across the country.

General Climate Table for Morocco

Month  Temp (°C)   Temp (°F)   Rainfall (mm) 
 January  10 - 18  50 - 64  70
 February  10 - 19  50 - 66  45
 March  12 - 20  54 - 68  50
 April  13 - 22  55 - 72  40
 May  15 - 24  59 - 75  30
 June  18 - 27  64 - 81  10
 July  21 - 30  70 - 86  1
 August  21 - 30  70 - 86  1
 September   19 - 28  66 - 82  10
 October  16 - 25  61 - 77  35
 November  13 - 21  55 - 70  80
 December  11 - 18  52 - 64  80

As earlier mentioned, keep in mind that the climate is different in various parts of the country. 

Best time to visit Morocco

The best time to explore Morocco is during spring (March - May) and fall (September - November). These seasons offer delightful weather, ideal for partaking in cultural festivities and outdoor adventures.

It's wise to steer clear of the scorching summer heat and the chilly winter months to ensure a more comfortable and rewarding travel experience.

Let's take a deeper look at Morocco's travel seasons so that you can get a deeper insight into what time would work for your trip.

1. Peak Tourist Seasons

Spring (March to May)

With temperatures ranging between 12 and 20 degrees Celcius ( 54°F to 68°F ), this is the ideal period for visiting Morocco. Nature is alive and vibrant.

This is Morocco at its finest, a place where the Fez Festival of World Sacred Music transforms into a beautiful blend of cultures and traditions, creating a harmonious symphony of life.

Fall (September to November)

Fall/Autumn is another favourable time to visit Morocco. The temperatures range between 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F).

September to November is a perfect time for exploration when the temperatures are quite pleasant, and the crowds are slightly smaller in comparison to the spring (March to May).

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chefchaouen blue city morocco

2. Off-Peak Seasons

Summer (June to August)

Between June and August, Morocco experiences a hot summer - especially in the areas in and close to the Sahara Desert. While the desert basks in temperatures around 30°C (86°F), the coast offers refuge at a pleasant 21°C ( 70°F ).

While summer is hot in Morocco, this is far from the hottest places in Africa and a lot of activities can still be enjoyed as part of your trip.

Winter (December to February)

With the snow-capped Atlas mountains and uncrowded beaches, this is the quietest time to visit Morocco. Generally, the temperatures range between 11°C and 18°C (52°F to 64°F).

For people who prefer the exclusive feel of a holiday with no tourist crowds, December to February is a great time to visit Morocco. This might however not be ideal if you prefer warmer conditions.

Special Considerations

Ramadan

During Ramadan, the spiritual pulse of Morocco quickens. Locals observe fasting from dawn to dusk, and dining options are limited during daylight hours. 

Visitors who come during Ramadan should be aware of this and be better prepared for a situation where most places will not have food during the day. Additionally, it is regarded as respectful to not eat in public when other people are still going on with their fast.

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moroccan food tangine

In case food is a big part of your travel and cultural experience, visiting in Ramadan might seem limiting - so keep that in mind as well.

Related article: Best foods to try in Morocco

Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is Morocco's hottest landscape and can best be visited during spring and autumn. This is when the temperatures are more bearable at an average of 22°C (72°F) - making it possible for you to explore your desert dreams.

High Atlas Mountains

If the mountains call to your spirit, embrace spring and fall. With temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C ( 54°F to 68°F ), these seasons showcase Morocco's heights in their full glory.

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High Atlas Mountains Morocco

Budget Considerations

For the budget-conscious traveller, the tourist high season comes with increased costs and very little wiggle room while looking for a good bargain. However, the off-peak periods tend to have deals and discounts that can save you some money - making your trip cheaper, or a bit longer.

This is a general situation in all countries and not specific to Morocco. The great thing about Morocco is that the climate is not dramatically different in the various seasons, and visiting in the off-peak season doesn't mean you will miss out on the experiences.

Whatever the season, the experiences are really special and with proper planning, it is never impossible to get a good deal - especially if you are booking ahead of time.

Personal Preferences

Weather Tolerance

Think about your inclination towards different climates. Whether you seek the embrace of the sun or a cooler breeze, your choice will greatly determine how you want to enjoy your time in Morocco.

Take a second (or third) look at the climate chart we provided to assess your compatibility with the various seasons of Morocco. If you can Imagine that it will be okay, it most likely will be.

Crowds

Some people like the crowds while others find big crowds to be quite exhausting. Morocco's charm is timeless and can be enjoyed with or without crowds.

Choose between the vibrant peak seasons and the serene off-peak times, each chapter revealing a unique perspective of the same Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hottest month in Morocco?

July is Morocco's hottest month, closely followed by the sweltering August. During this period, temperatures in some places can rise to more than 35 degrees Celsius.

The heat is particularly intense in inland areas like Marrakesh, Fez, and the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert. However, a breath of relief can be found in coastal cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Essaouira, where the sea breeze lends a cooling touch to the air.

How many days do I need to visit Morocco?

The ideal length for a Moroccan trip varies, due to factors such as your preferred pace and travel style, along with your itinerary and interests.

If you're interested in major urban hubs like Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca, a week (7 days) provides ample time to delve into their main attractions and absorb Moroccan culture.

However, if you want to venture into the Sahara Desert for a camel trek, explore coastal gems like Essaouira and Agadir, as well as hike Atlas Mountain trails, a more leisurely 10 to 12-day itinerary aligns better with the richness of these experiences.

What should I wear in Morocco?

In Morocco, respecting the local culture and traditions involves dressing appropriately. Although there's no strict dress code for tourists, it's wise to steer clear of attire that's revealing or provocative.

For women, loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders, arms, and legs are advisable – think long skirts, dresses, or pants paired with tunic tops. Men should opt for long pants and sleeved shirts instead of shorts.

When exploring mosques or religious sites, having a scarf or shawl to drape over your head and shoulders is thoughtful. Since Morocco heats up in summer, lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen offer comfort and breathability.

Final Thoughts

As you think about what your trip to Morocco would feel like and how it would change your worldview, we are here to help you better understand and schedule your perfect adventure.

Whether it is culture, nature, adventure or your own combination of all these and more, Morocco is a great destination worth your consideration. And now, you know all about the climate - and how it fits in with your preferred activities.

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