Summer is just around the corner, and many travelers are asking themselves the exact same question: “Can you travel to Morocco in June, July, and August without suffering too much from the heat?”.
The answer is absolutely yes. Although temperatures rise significantly in inland cities like Marrakech or in the Sahara Desert, Morocco is well-equipped for the sun. With the right precautions and a well-planned itinerary, your summer adventure will be unforgettable.
Here are 5 practical tips to make the most of your tour.
1. Follow the Local Rhythm: The Midday Rule
In imperial cities like Marrakech or Fez, summer doesn’t stop life; it simply shifts its schedule. Do as the locals do:
- Early Morning: Dedicate the first hours of the day (from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) to open-air monumental visits, such as historic palaces or gardens (Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech, for example, is perfect in the morning).
- The “Riad Break”: During the central hours of the day (from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM), when the sun is at its peak, treat yourself to a break. This is the perfect time to relax in the cool patio of your Riad, perhaps taking a dip in the pool or enjoying lunch in the shade.
- The Evening Rebirth: After 5:00 PM, the air cools down and the cities come alive. Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech is at its best right at sunset, when it fills with stalls, scents, and performances.
2. Choose the Right Fabrics (and Respect the Culture)
Ditch synthetic fabrics. For the Moroccan climate, your number one ally is linen or lightweight cotton.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Not only will you be respectful of the local culture, but you will also protect yourself much better from the sun’s rays compared to wearing shorts and tank tops.
- Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight cotton scarf (a pashmina), which is incredibly useful both for protecting your neck from the sun and for the air conditioning in vehicles.
3. Integrate the Atlantic Coast into Your Itinerary
If you are traveling to Morocco at the beginning of summer, the secret to a perfect itinerary is balance. Make sure your tour includes stops along the Atlantic coast. Cities like Essaouira and Agadir enjoy an ocean breeze all year round, with temperatures in June rarely exceeding 25–28°C. Spending a few days here after visiting the interior will allow you to completely recharge.
4. How to Experience the Desert in Summer
Can you visit the Sahara in summer? Yes, but with the right logistics. Our tours are designed to bring you to the gateway of the Merzouga dunes in the late afternoon, when the sun is setting and the sand begins to cool down. The night in the desert holds a surprise: the summer temperature drop is extremely pleasant, and sleeping under the stars, with the clean air of the Sahara, is an experience that remains unaffected by the daytime heat.
5. Smart Hydration and Nutrition
“Berber Whisky” (the typical hot mint tea) is a natural thermoregulator, but during the day, bottled water must be your best friend. Avoid ice-cold drinks which can cause thermal shock, and opt for fresh, local summer cuisine instead. Fresh Moroccan salads (made with tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers) and vegetable tajines are light and easy to digest.