Morocco Weather and Climate: When to Visit

Morocco has coasts on the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, the Atlas Mountains in the middle and the Sahara in the south, so the weather in one place tells you little about another. Here is what to expect in each region, month by month, and what to pack.

Morocco's Climate Zones

Coastal (Casablanca, Essaouira, Tangier)

A Mediterranean climate: mild winters, warm summers. Temperatures rarely fall below 10°C or go above 30°C.

Inland Cities (Marrakech, Fes)

Hot and semi-arid. Summers are very hot (35-40°C) and winters mild (15-20°C), with a big gap between day and night temperatures.

Atlas Mountains

Winters are cold, with snow on the high ground, and summers are mild. The higher you go, the cooler it gets.

Sahara Desert (Merzouga, Erg Chebbi)

Conditions here are extreme. In summer it is extremely hot (45°C+). Winter days are mild, but nights get cold (0-5°C).

Best Time to Visit by Region

Sahara Desert

Best: October to April
Avoid: June to August (extreme heat)

Atlas Mountains

Best: April to June, September to November
Avoid: December to March (snow at high altitudes)

Marrakech and Fes

Best: March to May, September to November
Avoid: July and August (very hot)

Coastal Cities

Best: Any time of year, though April to October is best
Note: The coast stays pleasant even in summer

Monthly Guide

January-February

Cool winter weather. The desert is good now, with mild days and cold nights. Expect snow in the Atlas and rain on the coast.

March-May

Spring works well for every region. Temperatures are pleasant across the country and wildflowers come up in the desert.

June-August

Summer is very hot in the desert and the inland cities. Head for the coast or the mountains instead, and stay off the dunes in the middle of the day.

September-November

Autumn is excellent everywhere. It is warm rather than hot, and the light is good for photography.

December

Winter. Desert days are mild, the mountains are cold and the coast gets rain.

What to Pack by Season

Winter (December-February)

Warm layers, a jacket, hat and gloves for desert nights, plus light clothes for the warm days.

Spring/Autumn (March-May, September-November)

Light layers and a light jacket for the evenings. This is comfortable weather for any activity.

Summer (June-August)

Light, breathable clothing and good sun protection. Keep away from the desert at midday.

Matching the Season to Your Route

When to come depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. For the Sahara, we recommend October to April. If you are touring the whole country, spring and autumn give the best conditions overall. Contact us and we will help you pick dates that suit the weather.