Morocco Weather by Month
Morocco is a North African country bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea to the west and north, with Algeria to the east and the disputed Western Sahara to the south. The country’s diverse geography includes coastal plains, fertile river valleys, rugged mountain ranges, and expansive deserts. Morocco’s landscape is dominated by the Atlas Mountains, which stretch from the Atlantic coast in the southwest to the northeastern Mediterranean region, and the Rif Mountains in the north. The vast Sahara Desert covers the southeastern part of the country.
Morocco’s varied topography results in different climate zones. The coastal regions experience a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Inland, the mountains receive more rainfall and have colder winters, while the desert areas experience extreme temperatures, with scorching days and cold nights. Morocco’s climate is influenced by both the Atlantic and Mediterranean, leading to diverse weather patterns that vary significantly by region and season.
Morocco Weather by Month
January
General Overview
- Average temperature: 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F)
- Rainfall: Moderate rainfall in coastal and mountainous regions
January is the heart of winter in Morocco, with cool temperatures across most of the country. In the northern and coastal regions, such as Casablanca and Rabat, the weather is relatively mild, with occasional rain. The Atlas Mountains, particularly around Ifrane, experience cold temperatures, often dropping below freezing at night, with snow common at higher altitudes. In the desert areas like Merzouga, the days are mild, but the nights can be very cold.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco (Tangier, Chefchaouen): Cool and wet, with temperatures between 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F)
- Coastal regions (Casablanca, Rabat): Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F)
- Atlas Mountains (Ifrane, Ouarzazate): Cold with snow, temperatures between 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F)
- Sahara Desert (Merzouga, Zagora): Cool days and cold nights, with temperatures between 5°C to 16°C (41°F to 61°F)
January is a great time to explore Morocco’s cultural cities and experience the snow in the Atlas Mountains, but travelers to the desert should be prepared for cold nights.
February
General Overview
- Average temperature: 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F)
- Rainfall: Slightly less rain than January, but still wet in the north and coastal regions
February remains cool, though temperatures begin to rise slightly compared to January. The northern and coastal regions still experience mild temperatures with occasional rain. In the mountains, snowfall continues, especially at higher elevations, making it a good month for skiing in the Atlas Mountains. Desert areas remain cold at night but start warming up during the day.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Cool with occasional rain, temperatures between 11°C to 17°C (52°F to 63°F)
- Coastal regions: Mild and wet, with temperatures around 12°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Cold with snow, temperatures between 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F)
- Sahara Desert: Mild days and cold nights, temperatures ranging from 6°C to 18°C (43°F to 64°F)
February offers a balance of winter activities in the mountains and cultural experiences in the cities, though the weather can still be unpredictable.
March
General Overview
- Average temperature: 11°C to 22°C (52°F to 72°F)
- Rainfall: Less frequent rain, but still possible in coastal and northern areas
March marks the beginning of spring in Morocco, with warmer temperatures across the country and a noticeable decrease in rainfall. The coastal and northern regions experience mild, pleasant weather, while the Atlas Mountains start to thaw, with snow receding at lower elevations. The desert begins to warm up, making it more comfortable for travel.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
- Coastal regions: Warm and mostly dry, temperatures around 13°C to 22°C (55°F to 72°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Cool with some snow at high altitudes, temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
- Sahara Desert: Warmer days and cool nights, with temperatures between 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F)
March is a great month for travel across Morocco, with spring bringing comfortable weather for city exploration, hiking, and desert adventures.
April
General Overview
- Average temperature: 13°C to 25°C (55°F to 77°F)
- Rainfall: Rainfall decreases significantly, especially in the south
April is a full-fledged spring month in Morocco, with mild to warm temperatures and blooming landscapes, particularly in the northern and coastal regions. Rainfall becomes less frequent, although showers are still possible in the north. The Atlas Mountains remain cool, but the snow has largely melted, making it a good time for hiking. In the desert, temperatures rise, but the heat is not yet oppressive, making it ideal for exploring the Sahara.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Warm with occasional rain, temperatures between 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F)
- Coastal regions: Pleasant and mostly dry, temperatures around 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Mild with cooler nights, temperatures between 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F)
- Sahara Desert: Warm with comfortable nights, temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
April is one of the best months to visit Morocco, as the weather is comfortable for all types of activities, from trekking in the mountains to camel trekking in the desert.
May
General Overview
- Average temperature: 16°C to 28°C (61°F to 82°F)
- Rainfall: Dry season begins, with very little rain across the country
May signals the beginning of the dry season in Morocco, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The coastal and northern regions enjoy sunny days and pleasant temperatures, while the Atlas Mountains are warm during the day and cool at night, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking. The desert begins to heat up during the day, but nighttime temperatures remain comfortable.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Warm and dry, temperatures between 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F)
- Coastal regions: Sunny and warm, with temperatures around 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Warm days and cool nights, temperatures between 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F)
- Sahara Desert: Hot during the day, with temperatures between 16°C to 30°C (61°F to 86°F)
May is a fantastic month for visiting Morocco, with ideal weather for exploring the cities, hiking in the mountains, and venturing into the desert before the intense summer heat arrives.
June
General Overview
- Average temperature: 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
- Rainfall: Very little rain, particularly in inland and southern regions
June brings the onset of summer in Morocco, with temperatures rising steadily, especially inland and in the desert areas. The coastal regions remain relatively cooler due to the ocean breeze, making places like Casablanca and Essaouira ideal for beach vacations. In the Atlas Mountains, temperatures are warm but still comfortable for trekking. The desert, however, begins to experience more intense heat during the day, though nights remain cool.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Warm and dry, temperatures between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
- Coastal regions: Warm with ocean breezes, temperatures around 19°C to 29°C (66°F to 84°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Warm days and cool nights, temperatures between 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F)
- Sahara Desert: Hot during the day, with temperatures between 20°C to 34°C (68°F to 93°F)
June is a good time to visit the coastal areas and mountains, though desert excursions should be planned for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
July
General Overview
- Average temperature: 24°C to 36°C (75°F to 97°F)
- Rainfall: Peak of the dry season, with no significant rainfall
July is one of the hottest months in Morocco, especially in the interior and desert regions, where temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) during the day. Coastal regions are cooler, benefiting from the Atlantic and Mediterranean breezes, making them popular destinations for escaping the inland heat. The Atlas Mountains remain cooler than the plains, providing a respite from the summer heat.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Hot and dry, temperatures between 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F)
- Coastal regions: Warm and breezy, temperatures around 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Warm with cool nights, temperatures between 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
- Sahara Desert: Extremely hot during the day, with temperatures between 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F)
July is ideal for coastal vacations, but those traveling inland or to the desert should be prepared for extreme heat. Trekking in the Atlas Mountains is still possible, though early morning and late evening hikes are recommended.
August
General Overview
- Average temperature: 25°C to 38°C (77°F to 100°F)
- Rainfall: Very dry, with high temperatures inland
August is typically the hottest month in Morocco, with scorching temperatures across much of the country, particularly in the interior regions and the Sahara Desert. The coastal regions remain more temperate, making them popular destinations for both locals and tourists. The Atlas Mountains offer a cooler alternative to the heat of the cities and desert.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Very hot, with temperatures between 25°C to 36°C (77°F to 97°F)
- Coastal regions: Warm and pleasant, with temperatures around 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Warm days and cool nights, temperatures between 19°C to 30°C (66°F to 86°F)
- Sahara Desert: Extremely hot, with temperatures between 26°C to 42°C (79°F to 108°F)
August is best suited for beach vacations or mountain retreats. The intense heat makes travel in the desert and cities uncomfortable, particularly in the afternoons.
September
General Overview
- Average temperature: 22°C to 34°C (72°F to 93°F)
- Rainfall: End of the dry season, with slight cooling in most regions
September marks the transition from summer to autumn in Morocco, with temperatures beginning to cool slightly, especially in the north and coastal regions. Inland and desert areas remain hot, but the weather becomes more bearable as the month progresses. Rainfall is still minimal, but humidity decreases, making travel more comfortable.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Warm and dry, temperatures between 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F)
- Coastal regions: Pleasant with cooler evenings, temperatures around 21°C to 30°C (70°F to 86°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Warm with cool nights, temperatures between 16°C to 28°C (61°F to 82°F)
- Sahara Desert: Hot, with temperatures between 24°C to 38°C (75°F to 100°F)
September is a great time to visit Morocco, particularly for those looking to explore the cities or embark on desert adventures as the heat becomes more manageable.
October
General Overview
- Average temperature: 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
- Rainfall: Beginning of the wet season in northern regions, but still dry in the south
October is the start of the autumn season in Morocco, bringing cooler temperatures and the first rains in the northern regions. The weather is pleasant throughout most of the country, with warm days and cooler nights. The desert regions are also more comfortable, with daytime temperatures decreasing significantly.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Warm with occasional rain, temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F)
- Coastal regions: Pleasant and mostly dry, temperatures around 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Cool and dry, with temperatures between 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F)
- Sahara Desert: Warm with cool nights, temperatures between 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F)
October is one of the best months to visit Morocco, with perfect weather for sightseeing, trekking, and desert excursions.
November
General Overview
- Average temperature: 13°C to 22°C (55°F to 72°F)
- Rainfall: Rainy season begins in the north, with cooler temperatures across the country
November marks the beginning of Morocco’s rainy season in the northern and coastal regions. The weather is cooler, particularly in the north, with increased rainfall. The Atlas Mountains experience colder temperatures, especially at night, and snowfall may begin at higher elevations. The desert regions, however, remain dry and comfortable, with cooler days and cold nights.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Cool with increasing rain, temperatures between 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F)
- Coastal regions: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Cold, especially at night, with temperatures between 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F)
- Sahara Desert: Comfortable days and cold nights, temperatures between 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F)
November is ideal for visiting Morocco’s desert regions and experiencing the cooler, more comfortable weather. Travelers should be prepared for rain in the north and cooler temperatures in the mountains.
December
General Overview
- Average temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
- Rainfall: Wet season continues in the north; colder in the mountains
December is winter in Morocco, with cool temperatures across the country. The northern and coastal regions experience regular rainfall, while the Atlas Mountains see snowfall, particularly at higher elevations. The desert remains dry, with cold nights and mild days, making it a popular time for desert excursions. The coastal regions are milder but can still experience rainy days.
Regional Differences
- Northern Morocco: Cool and wet, temperatures between 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F)
- Coastal regions: Mild with rain, temperatures around 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F)
- Atlas Mountains: Cold with snow, temperatures between 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F)
- Sahara Desert: Cool days and cold nights, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 18°C (43°F to 64°F)
December is a great time to explore Morocco’s desert and mountain regions, while the northern areas experience cooler, wetter conditions.
Summary of Morocco’s Climate by Region
Northern Morocco (Tangier, Chefchaouen)
- Best months: March to June, September to November (pleasant temperatures, minimal rain)
- Wettest months: November to February (rainy season)
- Hottest months: July and August (very hot)
Coastal Regions (Casablanca, Rabat, Essaouira)
- Best months: April to October (dry and sunny)
- Wettest months: November to February (rainy season)
- Hottest months: July and August (mild compared to inland)
Atlas Mountains (Ifrane, Ouarzazate)
- Best months: April to June, September to October (mild temperatures, good for trekking)
- Cold months: December to February (snow, skiing possible)
Sahara Desert (Merzouga, Zagora)
- Best months: March to May, September to November (warm days, cool nights)
- Hottest months: June to August (extremely hot)
- Coldest months: December to February (cold nights, mild days)
Morocco’s diverse geography creates varying climates across the country, offering travelers year-round opportunities to explore its cities, mountains, and deserts. The best time to visit depends on the region and the activities travelers are interested in, whether it’s trekking in the Atlas Mountains, exploring the imperial cities, or embarking on a desert adventure.