Morocco’s Weather and Average Temperatures

Morocco's Weather

Morocco’s Weather and Average Temperatures

Many think the weather in Morocco is hot and dry, that of an arid desert where camels are the only mean of transportation. Well, this is not entirely false! Many beautiful places in Morocco are in the hot and dry Moroccan desert. However, Morocco’s weather varies greatly depending on where you are. There are regions in Morocco where people go skiing and hiking in the snow. There are also a variety of beaches along the Atlantic coast with beautiful azur beaches and gold sand.

The weather will somewhat determine the sightseeing experience, but warm weather is particularly appreciated by most. That’s why it’s essential to research your Moroccan region’s weather before planning your trip. However, checking Morocco’s weather becomes very important if you plan on having specific experiences like hiking, surfing, or visiting the desert. Choosing the best time to travel to Morocco regarding these activities is crucial.

If you are planning to visit one or more regions of Morocco, or if you are staying in Morocco for more than three days, it might be worth visiting multiple areas and diversifying the experiences you will have during your stay. If you don’t know where to start, check my custom travel pack options here.

What is the Best Month to Visit Morocco?

Morocco, like the other Northern Hemisphere countries, has a winter from December to February and a summer from June to August. Mountains, coasts, and deserts create different climates across the country, so temperatures vary greatly depending on where you are. This also means that you can travel to Morocco any time of the year. Here is all you need to know about the weather in Morocco.

Weather in Marrakech – The Best Season to Visit Marrakech

Walk by the Djemaa el-Fna square for a hot cup of special Moroccan tea. There is nothing like it. You can relax and enjoy the spectacle of local life passing by. You will find a mix of local storytellers, dancers, and snake charmers. The street food vendors offer regional treats. Spring and autumn are optimal times to visit Marrakech for perpetual sunshine and limited rainfall. Temperatures average no more than 26°C, considered mild and lovely.

Summer is a hot time. Visitors can expect a sharp rise in temperature up to 39°C. This is typical for July and August. Travel in winter to avoid crowds if you can handle the cold and wet. November and December experience the peak rainfall. The period I always recommend for visiting Marrakech is from March to May and from September to October. Take a stroll in Marrakech, called the imperial city, and gaze at the pink walls that encircle the medina, the Saadian tombs, and the gardens of the Menara. Look up to see unmistakable peaks of snow-capped Atlas Mountains.

While in Marrakech, many unique opportunities are possible around the city, from hiking in breathtaking nature, visiting rural villages in the mountains, balloon riding, and spending a memorable night in the desert with nomads.

weather in Marrakech Morocco

Clear sky above the Medina, Marrakech, Morocco

Weather in Northern Morocco: Tangier, Fez, Meknes, and the Surroundings

Tangier is a must for travelers. Given that it overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar, it has a particular appeal. The highlight is the medina, known for its famous, almost mythical status cafés. Northern Morocco boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, meaning hot, dry summers with an average temperature of around 29°C. Winters are not as sunny, mainly January, the coldest month that only sees a high of 7°C. The ideal seasons are spring and autumn when visitors flock to the imperial cities of Meknes, which offers Volubilis’s archaeological site. Fez, of course, is well known for its many souks and is a significant tourist draw. Don’t miss Chefchaouen, the “blue city” in the mountains of Ref.

weather in Fez Morocco

A gorgeous rooftop view of Fez Medina during the winter with a cloudy sky

Weather in Casablanca and Rabat and the Atlantic Coast of Morocco

The Atlantic coast of Morocco receives visitors all year round because the winters are mild. March to October are the dry months if rain is an issue. The summer months hover at 30°C as the sea breezes cool the air. True sun lovers will enjoy the summer heat on the famous well-frequented beaches of Agadir. If culture is your bag, you may prefer spring or autumn to gander at Casablanca. Not to be missed is the majestic Hassan II mosque and Rabat.

If you like a modern vibe, put the capital of the Cherifian kingdom on the top of your itinerary. It is a dynamic city laden with the old, traditional Moroccan architecture. However, the newer buildings mingle well with the many historical monuments. Take the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V as fine examples. The latter is a richly decorated structure that features the coveted traditional style adored by connoisseurs. It houses the tombs of the royal family. Essaouira is known for an almost constant wind between May and November, which is by no means a drawback. No wonder kiteboarding, surfing, and windsurfing are popular sports. By contrast, the city’s white medina is surrounded by ramparts. You will see a former artillery platform that dominates the ocean, known as the fortification of the Squala.

weather in Rabat Morocco

Sunny day at the Kasbah Oudayas, Rabat, Morocco

When to travel to the Atlas Mountains and the Moroccan Sahara

The Moroccan Sahara is a vast expanse that can be visited according to the median temperature. The hottest time is characterized by climbing mercury up to 40°C during summer. It only reaches 17°C in December. Try March, April, and May for the best time to visit. October and November also offer a pleasant climate. People enjoy safaris in the desert in the optimal seasons.

The trip crosses the Tichka Pass and the scenic Atlas Mountains. You will arrive at Ouarzazate and then can choose to go off the edge of the desert or to the Kasbahs. Many appreciate the fortified town of the Dades Gorges, known for the dominant red clay. Storms can be expected, but they are usually of short duration.

Camping in the desert of Morocco

Need more help planning your trip to Morocco? Check my Custom Morocco Travel Plan

 

 

Safaa, founder of moroccanzest

From design and decor to food and travel, moroccanzest is the space where I share what I loved growing up in Morocco, and more. It’s your destination for everything beautiful, artistic, and made the Moroccan way with love. Learn more about me here.