Morocco is a diverse country, where the old medinas coexist with the new cities, snow-capped mountains coexist with the golden deserts, and the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts provide cool, refreshing winds. It is a place to visit at any time of the year due to its rich culture, colorful markets, and diversity of landscape.
However, knowing the best time to visit Morocco will give you the assurance that you will be visiting the country at a comfortable time, and best of all, you will enjoy the natural and cultural marvels of Morocco. Destinations such as the ones offered by tours, such as Morocco Meta Adventures, can help you arrange your activities on a seasonal basis, which will include desert tours as well as mountain ascents. Traveling when the weather is good also helps, as you get to enjoy most of the outdoor activities, including camel trekking, hiking, and exploring the colorful souks without the discomfort of extreme weather.
Morocco’s Climate and Regions
The climate in Morocco significantly depends on the location. Each region has a unique weather pattern, i.e., coasts, inland cities, mountains, and deserts, and thus, to visit specific places, you should be on time depending on the areas you want to explore. The climate of each region not only influences outdoor activities but also local events and festivals, and even the availability of certain types of foods. These differences will cause you to plan a more comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Coastal Areas (Atlantic & Mediterranean)
The climate of the coast is Mediterranean, winters are mild, and summers are warm. Cities like Casablanca, Tangier, and Essaouira are all pleasant throughout the year, but the summer season is best when it comes to beaches and festivals along the seaside. Coastal areas are perfect for when you would like to have a mix of city sightseeing and leisure time on the beach. The Atlantic seashores, especially, are the favorite spot for water sports, fresh seafood, and a cool ocean breeze in summer when the weather is hot.
Inland Cities and Imperial Capitals
During summer, Marrakech, Fez, and Meknes may be unbearably hot, sometimes even more than 100°F (40°C). The spring and autumn seasons provide more comfortable conditions to visit palaces, gardens, and busy souks. During this time, the visitors can walk through and experience the culture without the heat of the summer months. The evening walk through medinas is usually pleasant when the temperatures are mild, which makes sightseeing much more fun.
Atlas Mountains
The atmosphere of the Atlas Mountains is cold, and there is always snow, which is ideal for skiing in such destinations as Oukaimeden. Summer and spring are warmer seasons that are appropriate for trekking and hiking in green environments. Another distinctive aspect of these mountains is the cultural experiences, since you can meet the Berber people and visit their villages. A hike through the Atlas provides travelers with a close-up of the natural beauty that Morocco holds, dramatic mountain ranges, and green valleys.
The Sahara Desert
The temperatures in the desert are severe. It is best to visit it between October and April, since the weather during these months is pleasant with warm days and cool nights, which makes camel treks and desert camps more comfortable. It is amazing to see the desert during the sunrise or the sunset, and the spectacular scenery changes color depending on the time of day, while the light shifts. Other activities in many desert tours include visiting small villages and enjoying traditional Berber music and food around a campfire.
Month-by-Month Guide for Traveling in Morocco
January
Winter is in full swing. The coastal areas are warm, the desert is low and cold, and there is a possibility of snow on the mountains. It is a less busy season, and thus tourists will be able to spend time and enjoy the attractions without a large crowd.
What to do in Morocco in January
Skiing the Atlas Mountains
Discovering Marrakech and Fez without many visitors
Day trips in the desert, where it is comfortable
Visit cultural events, which are not so crowded, and watch winter landscapes in the mountains.
February
February is a good month to escape the crowd since the weather is a little warmer. A lot of festivals begin to take place as spring arrives.
What to do in Morocco in February
Desert trekking
Going to almond blossom festivals
Visit to the cultural sites in imperial cities
Enjoy photography and city tours while taking advantage of mild temperatures
March
The spring begins, accompanied by vegetation and pleasant weather in Morocco. The days are also long, and it is the best time to visit Morocco if you’re going for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What to do in Morocco in March
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Marrakech, Rabat, and Fez city tours
Attending local festivals
Enjoy flowers and the breathtaking landscape.
April
It is one of the most adequate months to visit, and the weather is mild with blooming landscapes. This is perfect for exploring cultural and adventure activities.
What to do in Morocco in April
Explore the palaces and gardens of Marrakech
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Enjoy desert tours before the summer
Attend food festivals in the seasons and go to the outdoor cafes
May
May is ideal because it is hot with longer days. The average weather conditions permit extensive desert and mountain tours.
What to do in Morocco in May
Enjoy the beaches along the Atlantic coast
Walking and hiking in the mountains
Attend the Rose Festival in the Dades Valley
Visit UNESCO heritage sites at ease.
June
It becomes hot, especially in the inland areas, and the cities around the coasts remain cool. Hotter places are best visited during the early mornings and evenings.
What to do in Morocco in June
Spend some time at beach resorts such as Essaouira and Agadir
Shop in the morning to escape the heat in afternoon.
Attend local events and cultural festivals
Ride camels in the desert during the evening when it is not hot.
July
The summer days are hot both in the inland and the desert regions. People must schedule their activities in the colder regions or in the mornings and evenings.
What to do in Morocco in July
Coastal escapes to stay cool
Early morning or late evening city sightseeing
Attend summer music festivals
Savor Moroccan dishes inside the restaurant during the hottest part of the day.
August
The summer continues and makes coastal and mountainous regions even more attractive. It is not as comfortable to visit the desert on the hot days.
What to do in Morocco in August
Mountain retreats in the Atlas
Beach activities on the Atlantic coast
Nighttime sightseeing tours of medinas
Schedule air-conditioned accommodations at noon
September
The temperature starts to cool down, and this is another best time to go to Morocco. The harvest season is in progress with its fresh produce and cultural practices.
What to do in Morocco in September
Tours of Marrakech and Fez cities
Camping and camel riding in the desert
Hiking tours in the valleys of the Atlas Mountains
Visit local harvest festivals and markets
October
The mild weather makes the month of October the best time to visit Morocco for sightseeing and adventure. There are fewer tourist crowds, which makes this experience more relaxed.
What to do in Morocco in October
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Visiting the desert camps in the Sahara Desert
City sightseeing and cultural tourism
Utilize pleasant evenings for outdoor dining.
November
The temperature becomes cool, especially in the mountains, while the deserts remain comfortable. The coastal regions are still good for walks and sightseeing.
What to do in Morocco in November
Go for cultural tours in imperial cities
Take desert adventures with fewer tourists
Go for a mountain hike in cooler weather
Take advantage of the golden autumn light for photography
December
Winter sets in and leads to colder nights in the inland and snow in the mountains, with coastal areas remaining mild. In major cities, the holiday events add a festive atmosphere.
What to do in Morocco in December
Skiing in the Atlas resorts
Go for desert camping in clear, crisp skies
Take up holiday events in major cities
Take advantage of low-season travel rates and budget-friendly trips
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Morocco totally depends on what your interests and desired experiences are. The spring months (March-May) and autumn months (September-November) are usually the best time to go to Morocco, as they offer pleasant temperatures. If you want to go for desert excursions and skiing, then winter is the best time, while for coastal relaxation, summer is the best.
