The Best Time to Visit Morocco

Morocco's climate varies sharply between the coast, the mountains and the desert. A week in April can involve warm afternoons in Marrakech, snow on the Atlas passes and cool evenings in the Sahara. Plan by region, not just by month.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is the most popular season for good reason. Temperatures in the imperial cities are comfortable for walking, the countryside is green, and the desert is warm by day without being extreme. The Rif around Chefchaouen is at its most beautiful.

Expect higher demand for accommodation, especially around European school holidays. Book riads and desert tours early.

Summer (June to August)

Inland cities such as Marrakech and Fes become very hot in the afternoon, and the desert is best avoided in the middle of the day. The Atlantic coast is the place to be: Essaouira stays relatively cool thanks to ocean winds, and Agadir and Tangier are busy with holidaymakers.

• Sightsee early in the morning and in the evening.
• Choose accommodation with air conditioning or a pool.
• Summer is peak season for kitesurfing in Essaouira.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn mirrors spring: warm, settled weather across most regions and a good time for combining cities with a desert trip. The sea is still warm on the coast in early autumn.

Winter (December to February)

Winter days in Marrakech and Agadir are often sunny and mild, which makes Agadir popular with visitors escaping northern Europe. Nights, however, are cold everywhere inland, and very cold in the desert. Snow can close high mountain passes such as the Tizi n'Tichka for periods of time.

Traditional riads can feel chilly, so check that rooms are heated.

Ramadan

Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, so its dates move earlier by around 11 days each year. Morocco remains open to visitors, but daytime rhythms slow down, some restaurants close during the day and evenings after sunset become lively. Morocco also switches its clocks during Ramadan, so double-check transport times.

Best time by destination

Destination	Best months	Notes
Marrakech	March–May, September–November	Very hot summer afternoons
Fes	March–May, September–November	Cold, sometimes wet winters
Sahara (Merzouga)	October–April	Very cold nights in midwinter
Essaouira	Year-round	Windiest in summer
Agadir	Year-round	Popular winter sun destination
Chefchaouen	April–June, September–October	Cold, rainy winters

For destination-specific advice, see our guides to Marrakech, Essaouira and Chefchaouen.