Summer in Morocco is a season of long sunny days, cool mountain valleys and fresh Atlantic breezes. With the right route it is a wonderful time for families and first-time visitors: mornings in the souks of Marrakech, nights in the Atlas mountains, lazy days on the coast and, for the adventurous, a short and well-timed visit to the Sahara.
Is summer a good time to visit Morocco?
Yes – as long as you plan around the heat. From June to August, Marrakech and Fes often reach 35–40°C and the desert is hotter still, while the Atlantic coast and the mountains stay pleasant. Our summer itineraries follow the cooler regions, start early in the day and keep the hottest hours for the pool, a long lunch or a siesta in your riad. Some hotels are also cheaper than in spring and autumn.
- The coastEssaouira, Agadir, Taghazout and Asilah enjoy sea breezes and around 25°C.
- The mountainsHigh Atlas valleys around Imlil and Ourika are 10–15°C cooler than Marrakech.
- The northChefchaouen and Tangier are milder than the south, with green hills around them.
- The desertPossible with early starts: camel rides at sunset and sunrise only.
Our summer itinerary
8 days: Marrakech, the Atlas and the Atlantic coast
A family-friendly route that avoids the worst of the heat.
- Days 1–2Marrakech: palaces, gardens, museums and the Jemaa el-Fna square in the evening
- Days 3–4High Atlas: a valley lodge, easy walks to Berber villages and waterfalls
- Day 5Ouzoud waterfalls or the Agafay desert with a sunset camel ride
- Days 6–7Essaouira: beaches, the blue fishing port and fresh seafood
- Day 8Return to Marrakech for your flight
If you still want to see the Sahara, add one night in a private desert tent with a camel ride, dinner under the stars and an early-morning return to the cooler mountains.
Summer tours you can book online
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Private tour · Day trip · from MarrakechAgafay Desert Combo: Camel Ride, Quad and Buggy
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Private tour · Day trip · from MarrakechCamel Ride in the Agafay Desert at Sunset
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Private tour · 3 days · from Marrakech3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
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Private tour · 8 days · from Marrakech8-Day Tour from Marrakech to Tangier via the Sahara
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Private tour · 10 days · from Tangier10-Day Tour from Tangier to Marrakech via the Sahara
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Private tour · 8 days · from Tangier
8-Day Tour from Tangier to the Sahara & Marrakech
Things to do in summer
- Surf and beach days in Taghazout, Imsouane or Essaouira – see our surf camps.
- Hiking in the High Atlas when the trails are free of snow – see our Atlas hiking tours.
- Swimming at the Ouzoud waterfalls or in the pools of a mountain lodge.
- Festivals such as Gnaoua in Essaouira and the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music in early summer.
- Agafay desert evenings, only 45 minutes from Marrakech, with a cooler breeze after sunset.
Tips for travelling in the heat
- Start sightseeing early and plan indoor visits or pool time for the afternoon.
- Drink plenty of water and wear a hat, sunglasses and light, covering clothes.
- Choose accommodation with air conditioning and a pool – we include them in all summer tours.
- Keep desert visits short and schedule camel rides for sunset and sunrise.
Frequently asked questions
Is it too hot to visit the Sahara in summer?
Daytime temperatures in the desert often exceed 40°C. A short visit with an evening camel ride and an early departure is fine; longer desert trips are best kept for spring and autumn.
Where is the coolest place in Morocco in summer?
The Atlantic coast (Essaouira, Oualidia, Asilah) and the High Atlas valleys stay the most pleasant.
Is summer a good time for families?
Yes. With a coast-and-mountains route, children enjoy beaches, pools, camel rides and easy walks without the heat of the interior.
Is summer cheaper?
Some riads and hotels in Marrakech and Fes lower their prices in July and August, while coastal hotels are in high season.