Morocco is an enticing holiday destination with plenty to explore.
Offering a rich and varied mix of landscapes, from bustling souks and interesting architecture to epic mountain ranges and picture-perfect beaches. Whether you’re after an action-packed getaway, a spot of culture or a chance to unwind, you’ll find it all here in the beautifully diverse country of Morocco.
The best time of year to visit Morocco is typically during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is warm and with very little rainfall. Summer months in the cities can be overwhelmingly hot, although coastal regions make excellent year-round destinations, being mild in winter and with temperatures in the mid-20°Cs during summer. If trekking in the Atlas Mountains is on your travel bucket list, April to October are the best months to visit to avoid sweltering hiking temperatures or snow-capped peaks.
A really wonderful experience. Lovely group with everyone getting on well. Excellent itinerary which was very varied. Both the UK and Maroccan guides were really helpful always attending to our needs.
What to expect from Morocco in January
With average temperatures around 13-17°C (55-63°F) along the coast in cities like Casablanca, as well as lower elevations of the Atlas Mountains, January may be the coldest month of the year to visit Morocco but it’s an ideal time to visit if you’re planning on desert trekking or simply prefer to sightsee without the usual crowds. Temperatures in Marrakech are slightly higher, around 18-21°C (64-70°F) and across the whole of Morocco January experiences relatively low rainfall – typically less than 30mm during the month. While there is chance of snow in the mountains and the desert can get very cold at night, January is generally a sunny and mild month to visit Morocco.
Festivals and events in January
- Yennayer
- The Amazigh (or Berber) new year – is now an official holiday in Morocco.
- The celebration by one of the oldest cultures in North Africa sees communities across Morocco come together to mark the occasion with lively music, traditional dances and festive foods like couscous and Tagoula.
What to expect from Morocco in February
While February is considered to be Morocco’s winter season, it still offers pleasant temperatures for winter sun seekers. Average temperatures in southern areas of the country like Marrakech and the Sahara Desert, sit around 17-20°C (63-68°F). The chance of February rainfall is slightly higher than January in Morocco, but showers are usually brief, and humidity is 71%. If you’re travelling to Morocco in February is may be wise to pack a light raincoat, just in case.
Festivals and events in February
- Morocco’s Almond Blossom Festival
- Typically held during the second week of February, Morocco’s Almond Blossom Festival is a welcoming celebration in the picturesque Berber mountain village of Tafraoute.
- Held to coincide with when the almond trees are in full bloom, it’s a unique festival full of traditional dance, delicious food and fascinating Berber folklore, all set against the picture-perfect backdrop of this friendly village.
What to expect from Morocco in March
March signals the start of spring in Morocco, bringing with it warmer temperatures that climb throughout the month from an average of 10 to 20°C (50 to 68°F). You can expect long sunny days with very little rainfall – but always plan for unexpected showers in spring.
Festivals and events in March
- Ramadan
- Ramadan 2024 began on March 12th, and will often fall within this month.
- For Muslims, this is a month of fasting, praying, helping the poor and getting closer to Allah.
- The breaking of fast at sundown is an unforgettable and inclusive experience, while the end of Ramadan – Eid al-Fitr – is one of the biggest Islamic holy festivals in the world.
What to expect from Morocco in April
With plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures, April is an excellent month for enjoying outdoor excursions in Morocco. Whether that’s trekking in the Atlas Mountains, hiking to the awe-inspiring Ouzound Falls, or exploring the lively city markets, April offers average daily temperatures ranging from 15 to 27°C (59 to 80°F). Expect cooler temperatures by the coast in Casablanca and Essaouira, and higher temperatures in inland cities like Marrakech.
Festivals and events in April
- International Nomads Festival
- Held every April in the small south-eastern Moroccan town of Mhamid El Ghizlane.
- Celebrating the nomadic culture, this eclectic festival features everything from camel racing to learning how to cook bread in the desert sand.
What to expect from Morocco in May
Due to the hugely diverse nature of the country’s landscape, temperatures across Morocco in May can vary widely between 15°C in the Atlas Mountains to 35°C in the Sahara Desert. It’s a great month for relaxing beach holidays in Morocco, where you can enjoy the warm temperatures without the summer crowds. It’s also a great month for enjoying outdoor activities – just don’t forget your sunscreen.
Festivals and events in May
- Rose Festival
- Take a trip to El Kelaa Des Mgouna, a town at the foot of the Atlas Mountains affectionately called the Valley of the Roses, for May’s annual Rose Festival. Expect plenty of dancing, delicious local food and the crowning of the Rose Queen.
- Fez Festival of World Sacred Music
- A festival that’s perfect for music fans. Here you can enjoy live performances from various bands and artists from across the world, over the week-long festival.
What to expect from Morocco in June
Generally considered to be one of the hottest months of the year to visit Morocco, June sees temperatures soar above 35°C (95°CF) in Marrakech and Fes, with desert temperatures often reaching over 40°C (104°F). Despite the hot temperatures, June is a good month for a Moroccan beach holiday, with coastal areas enjoying slightly cooler temperatures thanks to the Atlantic Ocean position. You’ll also be able to enjoy a quieter, more relaxing holiday due to the smaller number of visitors compared to other months of the year. In temperatures like this, a sun hat, sunscreen and keeping hydrated are absolute travel essentials.
Festivals and events in June
- Sefrou Cherry Festival
- This three-day festival celebrates the natural beauty of the region.
- Enjoy a dazzling parade with bands, floats, performers and the newly chosen Cherry Queen.
What to expect from Morocco in July
If you’re wondering “is it hot in Morocco in July?” the answer is yes! Temperatures can often reach the mid-40°Cs during the day, so if you do travel in the hottest summer months it’s a good idea to plan your sightseeing for the early morning or evening. Trips to the Atlantic coast offer a welcome respite from the high temperatures inland, but as July marks the start of the school holidays many places get booked up in advance.
Festivals and events in July
- National Festival of Popular Arts
- Held in Marrakesh in June
- This five-day spectacular features hundreds of Berber storytellers, dancers, acrobats and singers from across Morocco.
What to expect from Morocco in August
Throughout August Morocco is hot and dry, with long sunny days and minimal rainfall. Similar to the other summer months, August temperatures can hit highs of around 35 to 40°C (95 to 104°F), with evenings cooling to around 20 to 25°C (68 to 177°F). Coastal cities like Casablanca and Essaouira provide a more refreshing temperature, not to mention the lure of incredible seafood.
Festivals and events in August
- Moussem Festival of Moulay Abdellah i
- A historical Islamic festival held yearly in El Jadida.
- Thousands of festival goers pitch their tents along the walls of the city on the Atlantic coast to watch Doukkala tribes take part in equestrian games and performances.
What to expect from Morocco in September
September marks the start of autumn in Morocco. It’s a popular time to visit the country, with warm, pleasant temperatures hovering between 20-28°C (68- 82°F), providing the perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. The desert has cooled enough for visitors to explore, and the beaches are quieter compared to peak summer months. September really is one of the best months to visit Morocco with excellent weather and many cultural festivals to enjoy.
Festivals and events in September
- Imilchil Wedding Festival
- Each year, the town of Imilchil comes to life with music, dancing, markets, pop-up cafes and celebrations
- This three-day festival sees local women and men eagerly search for a potential life partner, with plenty of flirting, engagements and even marriages taking place.
What to expect from Morocco in October
If you’re keen to explore the souks of Marrakech, October is one of the best months for sightseeing in Morocco. With cooler temperatures and low rainfall, October is ideal for city breaks in Marrakech, where you can enjoy the grand architecture, vibrant markets and historical sites in comfort. If you’re keen to head out to the desert or trek through the Atlas Mountains, this is a fantastic time of year to explore the great outdoors and natural beauty Morocco has to offer.
Festivals and events in October
- Date Festival
- The annual Date Festival takes place over three days in October (specific dates dependent on the harvest) in Erfoud.
- This small oasis town in the Sahara Desert, surrounded by beautiful scenery and countless date palms, is an idyllic setting for this beloved Moroccan festival.
- Once the dates are harvested, the town celebrates in style with traditional music, dancing, processions, camel racing, and the crowning of the Date Queen.
- There’s also plenty of opportunity for visitors to sample the local festive food on offer – dates included!
What to expect from Morocco in November
Winter in Morocco still brings with it plenty of sunshine and, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 21°C (59 to 70°F), it’s mild enough to explore the vibrant sights and sounds of Marrakech and Fez during the day. November is still a good time of year to visit the Atlas Mountains but be aware that high peaks have the potential for snow cover. The key to making the most of your time in Morocco during November is layers. Pack plenty of thin clothing layers that you can easily take off or add, depending on the temperature when you are out and about.
Festivals and events in November
- Moroccan Independence Day
- Celebrated on the 18th of November each year
- Commemorates the day Morocco gained its freedom from French rule
- Expect plenty of festivities, dancing, and celebrations across the country, particularly in major cities
- International Film Festival of Marrakech
- Film buffs will love the chance to star spot at this festival
- Held in late November, this exciting film festival celebrates the best of Moroccan cinema
What to expect from Morocco in December
If you’re planning a winter break, Morocco during early to mid-December is a fantastic option. The temperatures are pleasantly warm, the skies are blue, and you won’t have crowds of tourists to contend with. As the climate differs across the country, you can expect temperatures ranging from as low as 10°C (50°F) to as high as 20°C (68°F), with southern cities like Marrakech enjoying the warmer weather. December is an ideal time of the year to visit the Sahara Desert thanks to the cooler daytime heat – just be aware that temperatures can drop significantly at night in the desert.
While Christmas is not officially celebrated in Morocco, it’s still a popular destination for a festive holiday and some winter sun. If you do plan on spending Christmas in Morocco it’s worth noting that Christmas through to New Year’s is a very popular time of year for visitors, so places book up early and prices may be higher than at other times of year.
Festivals and events in December
- Tan Tan Moussem
- A December festival that brings together more than 30 tribes from south-western Morocco in a cultural celebration of dancing, storytelling and came racing
Lovely break in a fascinating city made all the better by the excellent tour manager and Moroccan guide
Our holidays to Morocco
Frequently asked questions
While temperatures vary across the country due to the diverse landscape, typically the best month to visit Morocco if you’re after cooler weather is January. While temperatures are low throughout November and December, there is usually more rainfall during these winter months. January in Morocco offers cool to mild temperatures alongside minimal rainfall, making it a great choice for outdoor excursions and sightseeing. If you plan on visiting Morocco during the cooler months, make sure you pack plenty of layers as well as a waterproof jacket in case of showers.
Morocco is a popular holiday destination with many tourists heading to the country in search of winter sun. While Christmas and New Year are busy times for tourism, the summer months can also see the beaches fill up with local holidaymakers. If you’re searching for the best month to visit Morocco for a quiet holiday, April is a great choice. With warm temperatures and guaranteed sunshine, April offers the perfect kind of weather to discover the country without the crowds. During April you should be able to explore the cities, coastline, desert and mountains without the sweltering heat or bustling visitor numbers.
Visiting Morocco during Ramadan offers a unique cultural experience and helps provide a greater understanding of Muslim culture. During the month of Ramadan millions of Moroccans observe fasting during daylight hours, abstaining from food or drink until sunset, when they can break their fast until dawn. Ramadan is seen by Muslims as an opportunity for self-reflection and gratitude, as well as empathising and supporting those in society who aren’t as fortunate.
During Ramadan in Morocco, some shops and restaurants may open later than usual, and markets may be quieter in the morning, but there will always be plenty of coffee shops and tourist cafes open early enough to serve breakfast. In popular tourist cities like Marrakesh, many restaurants will be open all day, but you may need to be flexible with your itinerary when it comes to visiting particular shops and restaurants.
Average temperatures by month
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Marrakesh | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C | 25°C | 29°C | 34°C | 38°C | 37°C | 32°C | 28°C | 13°C | 20°C |
Average rainfall by month
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Marrakesh | 31mm | 23mm | 31mm | 31mm | 11mm | 4mm | 11mm | 2mm | 13mm | 22mm | 27mm | 27mm |