“When is the best time for the desert?” It is the question we are asked most often. The answer depends on what you cope with better: afternoon heat or cool nights. Southern Morocco can be visited all year round, but not in the same way. Here is what changes from one season to the next, based on what we see on our own trips.
Spring, from March to May: the most pleasant season
This is the period we recommend first. In Merzouga, afternoons average around 24 °C in March and get close to 30 °C in April. Nights are cool rather than cold, perfect for sleeping in a tent. The light is clear, the sky often cloudless, and the sunset camel ride is comfortable.
Spring has its own events too. In Kelâat M’Gouna, in the Valley of Roses, the roses are picked in spring and the town celebrates the harvest every year in May. On the Tizi n’Tichka road, the High Atlas peaks are often still snow-capped early in the season, and the contrast with the dunes a few hours later is part of the journey.
One thing to bear in mind: sandy winds can pick up on some days. A desert scarf (chèche) and sunglasses are usually all you need.
Autumn, from September to November: the other good season
The heat eases from late September. Along with April, October is one of the most comfortable months, with afternoons around 30 °C and mild nights. In November the days stay sunny, but you will want a jacket for the evening at camp.
It is harvest time: dates in the palm groves of the Drâa and the Tafilalet, and saffron around Taliouine, picked in October. On our Magic of the South family holiday, you can even join the farmers in the fields if your dates match the harvest.
Winter, from December to February: mild days, cold nights
Winter surprises many travellers. Days are often bright and pleasant, around 18 to 20 °C in the afternoon in Merzouga, but nights drop on average to just a few degrees. At camp the blankets are thick; just bring a warm jumper, a hat and a jacket.
Two things to know before booking. First, snow can temporarily close the Tizi n’Tichka pass between December and March, so it is wise to keep some flexibility in the programme. Second, the end-of-year holidays are in high demand, so book early if you want to see in the New Year among the dunes.
Summer, from June to August: possible, with a different rhythm
In July and August, afternoons regularly go above 40 °C in the desert. You can still go, as long as you live on Saharan time: an early start, a break in the shade during the hottest hours, camels and dunes at the end of the day, then a warm night, sometimes under the stars. For a first trip with children, we would rather suggest another season.
Summer is, however, a very good time for the mountains and the coast. Our Aït Bouguemez and M’Goun gorges trek runs from April to the end of October, and the ocean breeze keeps Essaouira pleasant in high summer.
In short, month by month
- March, April, May: the ideal season for a first desert trip, with the Valley of Roses as a bonus.
- June, July, August: hot in the dunes; favour mornings, evenings, the Atlas and the coast.
- September: still hot early in the month, more and more pleasant afterwards.
- October, November: the second good season, with the date and saffron harvests.
- December, January, February: mild, bright days, cold nights, possible snow on the passes.
To choose between the dunes of Erg Chebbi and those of Erg Chegaga, read our article Erg Chebbi or Erg Chegaga: which desert should you choose?. And if you are unsure about your dates, tell us when you are free: we will suggest the programme that suits the season best, to shape together as a tailor-made trip.
