Best Time to Visit Morocco for Holidays

Planmytour
Date : October 23, 2023

Few places are as breathtakingly beautiful as Morocco in north Africa! The majestic region is flanked by the spectacular Atlantic Ocean, Algeria, and the impressive Mediterranean Sea - all in different directions. When you visit Morocco for the first time, you'll come across an impressive rugged interior with the towering Atlas Mountains severing the serene, gentle coastline from the punishing Sahara. You will also come across a nonpareil blend of African, Arab, European, and Berber cultures, renowned chiefly for its hospitality.

But when is the best time to go Morocco for first-timers? Well, typically, any time can be a great time to visit Morocco, since this breathtakingly beautiful country features a remarkably diverse landscape that shines differently in different seasons. Nevertheless, the best time to visit Morocco depends majorly on the type of holiday you wish to have here - whether a romantic escapade, a solo adventure, or a family holiday.

So, here’s a quick outline of the best Morocco times to plan a trip, based on your specific interests and travel budget.

Best Time of Year to Visit Morocco Overall

The best time of year to travel in Morocco is usually during the remarkable seasons of autumn (September - November) as well as early spring (March - April). The weather is ideal around this time to explore the intimidating Sahara Desert, without having to bear the brunt of the harsh, unforgiving heat that is rampant during peak summers in Morocco. As such, this is also the best time to visit Morocco for its gorgeous beaches, outdoor adventures, and for exploring historically significant places like Marrakech.

October is special when it comes to picking Morocco best time of year to visit, as it welcomes the Erfoud Date Festival, wherein the locals celebrate the harvest of dates. You will also enjoy a prominent, globally renowned music festival during this month, showcasing traditional Moroccan beats and welcoming famous musical geniuses from diverse parts of the world. Music lovers will love to attend this incredible event, the Gnaoua World Music Festival, held in Essaouira.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Morocco Month and Weather-Wise

The following is a crisp overview of Morocco weather best time to visit month-wise. Take an in-depth glance and determine the time most suitable for visiting Morocco for your specific preferences.

Visiting Morocco during Spring - April to May

Spring

Spring is the best time to see Morocco for multiple reasons. For instance, it ensures outdoor enthusiasts can explore the intense and far-reaching Sahara Desert in much friendlier weather. You can enjoy a unique stay in a desert camp, go on a jeep safari, or opt for exciting camel treks! This is also an exceptional time to simply take long walks with your beloved on romantic adults only holidays. Also, the blessed month of Ramadan usually occurs in spring or early June, heightening the excitement of your Morocco holiday.

Pointers for a spring Morocco visit:
● Be prepared for sandstorms in spring. It is advisable to carry a mask or a scarf to protect your face.
● Stay hydrated on outdoor excursions.
● Do not litter in public areas.
● Dress appropriately and avoid public displays of affection.
● Carry enough sun protection.

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Visiting Morocco during Summer - June to August

Summer

Peak summer can be among the harsher Morocco times for a visit, particularly for those unused to extreme heat. However, if you can handle a bit of intense warmth, summer is the ideal time to visit Morocco for its picturesque sun-kissed beaches lapped by the glorious Atlantic Coast. Invariably, it's the Morocco weather best time to visit coastal regions like Essaouira for a beach holiday. Experience the fantastic local seafood specialties and delve into cultural attractions amid cool temperatures!

Pointers for a summer Morocco visit:
● Don't forget to try the seafood at popular coastal restaurants!
● Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
● Carry a cover-up when visiting beaches and areas with crowds, as it is uncommon to wear bikinis in public in Morocco.
● Visit the beaches early in the morning to prevent exhaustion from spending time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, which are typically the afternoons.

Read Also : Best Beaches in Fuerteventura

Visiting Morocco during Autumn - September to October

Autumn

If you love trekking, camping, and other exciting outdoor adventures, you will find the best weather Morocco has to offer for these activities during the autumn months of September - October. The cool mountain breeze makes it easy to conquer serpentine hiking trails, enjoy camping, and opt for much longer open-air trips in general. October is the best time to visit Morocco if you want to be a part of famous festivals like the Erfoud Date Festival held in Fes.

Pointers for an autumn Morocco visit:
● Pack suitable clothing and safety gear for outdoor activities like trekking or camping.
● Always stay hydrated and expect light rainfall.
● Be mindful and respect the Berber communities that call the High Atlas Mountains their home.
● Explore beaches in Agadir and Essaouira.
● Take a dip in the sea in October!

Visiting Morocco during Winter - November to March

Winter

Winter is the best time to travel to Morocco for a myriad of reasons. For one, the weather is a sharp contrast to the typical Moroccan summer heat, enabling travellers to discover the beauty of imperial cities and their hidden treasures. It is also the off-peak season to visit Morocco, so you can sightsee in peace without encountering swarms of tourists. Note that January can be quite cold, being the coldest month in Morocco, so bring enough layers and warm clothes.

Pointers for a winter Morocco visit:
● Make sure to experience the allure of the High Atlas Mountains and coastal towns like Essaouira.
● Catch the International Film Festival held each year in Marrakech to celebrate all kinds of cinema.
● Note that there may be a chance of rain, so pack likewise.
● Avoid visiting the desert at night, as temperatures are much colder during the winter.
● Experience a traditional hammam to beat the winter chill.

Month	Average Temp.	Average Rainfall
January	14 - 19°c	2mm
February	15 - 21°C	10mm
March	17 - 23°C	5mm
April	19 - 26°C	0mm
May	21 - 31°C	3mm
June	23 - 35°C	0mm
July	25 - 40°C	0mm
August	26 - 40°c	2mm
September	23 -34°C	0mm
October	23 - 30°C	7mm
November	19 - 23°C	9mm
December	16 - 21°C	6mm

Cheapest Month to Visit Morocco

Ordinarily, the best time to visit Morocco for budget travellers is during the shoulder months of November to March. This is typically the rainy season in Morocco, and the weather is normally cool to intense cold, especially in the evenings and at night. In addition to being the ideal time for a cheap holiday to Morocco, it is also the appropriate time if you're wondering when to travel to Morocco for fewer crowds.

If you're searching for the cheapest month to visit Morocco, then November is largely considered the Morocco best time of year to visit with limited means. It comes right after busy October, which witnesses heavier crowds due to the array of festivals held in the pleasant autumn month.

When to Visit Morocco for Best Activities

Figure out the best time of year to visit Morocco for your specific requirements depending on what you wish to see and do here. The ensuing are a few top things to consider experiencing in the region on your all inclusive holidays to Morocco.

To Visit the Sahara Desert - Autumn to late Spring

Sahara Desert

Most travellers come to Morocco with the sole aim to see the famed Sahara Desert. However, timing this kind of trip is key, as the intense Moroccan heat can be challenging to handle for many travellers once out in the desert. While there is no specific best month to visit Morocco for exploring the unmatched beauty of the Sahara Desert, planning the trip during pleasant seasons of autumn or late spring is advisable. Ensure to pack breathable fabric with plenty of layers to effectively shield your face against unexpected sandstorms.

To Explore the Coastal Beauty - Summer to early Autumn

Summer to early Autumn

Those wondering when to go to Morocco for a quick beach break should plan a holiday between summer and early autumn, particularly the months from June to September. It's the best time to go Morocco, with water temperatures in the northern regions usually hitting around 25°C, which is a splendid time for some sun, sand, and sea in Morocco's beaches. Taghazout, Essaouira, and Tangier are best for surfing and other thrilling water adventures. Do make sure to try some lip-smacking seafood in these popular coastal areas in Morocco!

To Avoid the Crowds - Winter

Winter

The winter months from November to March are generally considered the best time to travel to Morocco for a less-crowded experience. The weather is pleasant and even the costs of flights, accommodation, local tours, and other attractions are far cheaper than at other times of the year. Fewer-crowds-plus-low-costs is the perfect recipe for travellers seeking to discover the authentic beauty of Morocco at their pace within a limited budget. Additionally, it is still warm enough during the daytime to hit some of the top Moroccan beaches.

To Experience Morocco during Ramadan - As per Calendar

Ramadan

Experiencing Morocco during Ramadan is an extraordinary thing for Muslim travellers, since this is predominantly an Islamic region. You will see thousands or ardent worshippers descending on prominent local mosques to make their prayers, post which they will spread out into the streets and markets to break their fasting with delectable Ramadan special dishes. It’s truly one of the best short haul holidays from the UK!

While it is a good time to go to Morocco during the holy month of Ramadan, note that several restaurants and shops remain closed until the end of fasting hours. However, you will still find plenty of cafés and bars open throughout the day, so you can grab a quick bite to eat amid sightseeing explorations. Everything else will come alive at night, as the locals gather together to enjoy a meal post breaking their fast for the day.

FAQ

The best month to visit Morocco will depend on what you wish to do here. For instance, November is the cheapest month for budget travellers to visit Morocco, while summer is more suitable for those seeing a beach holiday. November to March is the best time to travel to Morocco for UK travellers who desire to avoid vast throngs of tourist crowds.

July is generally the hottest month in Morocco, with average temperatures of 25 - 40°C. Nevertheless, temperatures will vary based on the city, with Tangier being warmer than places like Agadir (which is the coolest) and others. August is pretty hot, too, making it unsuitable to undertake outdoor expeditions to the Sahara Desert and other sites during the daytime.

Once you figure out the best time to go Morocco, it is essential to determine the length of your Morocco holiday. Typically, a week should be enough if all you want to see are attractions in some of the major cities like Fes, Casablanca, or Marrakech. However, consider planning a 10 to 14 days’ holiday to Morocco if you want to discover the panoramic allure of the Sahara Desert, camp overnight, and go on camel safaris. This will also give you enough to visit some of the top Morocco beaches, such as Oualidia, Taghazout, Bouznika, and Essaouira.

Wondering when to visit Morocco without its crowds? Broadly speaking, the peak summer months usually beginning from May to August, and early autumn in September, constitute the most pleasant and best time to visit Morocco to avoid the crowds. The country is quieter during this period, and it's an excellent time to discover the true magnificence of Morocco at your own comfortable pace.

Yes, you most certainly can! The blessed period of Ramadan is the best month to visit Morocco, enabling travellers to experience the distinct local celebrations first-hand. Trying Ramadan special cuisine is a must at this time! It is also the best time to travel to Morocco for buying delicious local dates and other unique souvenirs and gifts for loved ones back home.

The winter season in Morocco witnesses a few sporadic showers, but you can expect a bit of rainfall anytime from November to March. The heaviest rainfall occurs typically in December in Morocco. Meanwhile, January is generally the coldest month in Morocco, with average temperatures ranging from 14 - 19°C. Nonetheless, rain and cold weather can still be the best time to visit Morocco for those largely unbothered by climatic conditions.