Best Time to Visit Morocco

A diverse country with something for all kinds of travelers, there is no bad time to visit Morocco, but generally, the best time to visit is during April and May or September to November, the country’s shoulder seasons. During these months, the climate is neither too hot nor too cold, and there are fewer tourists to contend with than there would be during the peak summer or winter vacation periods. However, those hoping to trek the Atlas Mountains or surf the waves on the Atlantic coast may find that other times of the year better suit their needs. 

For many visitors, Morocco’s weather is the single largest factor in determining the best time to travel. Morocco follows the same basic seasonal pattern as any other Northern Hemisphere country, with winter lasting from December to February, and summer lasting from June to August.

During the peak summer months, the weather can get uncomfortably hot, especially in Marrakesh, Fez, and southwest Morocco (remember that the further south you go, the closer you are to the Sahara Desert). Coastal destinations like Tangier, Rabat, and Essaouira are a more comfortable choice at this time of year because they benefit from the cool ocean breeze. Despite the heat, many people choose to visit Morocco at this time because it coincides with the European summer vacation. 

Winters are generally mild although temperatures at night can fall dramatically, with record lows of 26.5 degrees Fahrenheit recorded in Marrakesh. A dusting of snow is not unusual in northern Morocco and​, of course, the Atlas Mountains are prone to heavy snowfall in winter. You can even ski at Oukaïmeden, located 80 kilometers south of Marrakesh. Winters in the north of the country and along the coast can be quite wet, while winters in the south are drier but colder, especially at night.