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The Best & Worst Times to Visit Morocco in 2023

The Best & Worst Times to Visit Morocco in 2023

Considering a trip to Morocco? If you take some time to research the area before planning your stay, you can ensure that you have the best possible experience. There’s plenty to see and do in Morocco.

The North African country is a bustling tourist destination, hosting almost three million tourists in 2020 alone. Between the medina in Fez and the Blue Village of Chefchaouen, you won’t miss exciting places to visit.

And if you’re a foodie, prepare for the experience of a lifetime! Whatever you do in Morocco, you’re bound to have a great time. We’ll show you the best time to visit Morocco, so you can ensure your money is best spent on an amazing trip.

Why You Should Visit Morocco in 2023

Thin woman in a yellow dress walking through the colorful blue and white walls of Fez during the best time to go to Morocco

Kudla/Shutterstock

Morocco is an old place filled with history, culture, and exquisite landscapes. Morocco tourism is a critical industry to the country, and for a good reason.

Morocco has plenty to see and do. You’ll never run out of fun, fascinating places to go. And you can experience a wide array of culturally significant sites, including:

  • Citadel of Ait Ben-Haddou
  • The Saadian Tombs
  • Kasbah Mosque
  • Mausoleum of Mohammed V
  • El Jadida

Whether you’re interested in historical sites or interesting local shops, you can find a wealth of culture and intrigue around every corner in Morocco.

If that’s not enough to convince you, consider the varied geography. Morocco offers vast deserts, glorious mountains, and heavenly beaches just waiting for you to enjoy!

Overall Best Time to Visit Morocco

Gorgeous lighthouse of Cap Spartel on the coast of Gilbraltar during the best time to visit Morocco

Pavel Szabo/Shutterstock

Visiting Morocco is all about picking the perfect time. You want to visit when the weather is still temperate, and the prices aren’t too high. Finding that sweet spot makes for a great adventure.

There are two ideal times to visit Morocco based on the weather:

  • Mid-March to May
  • Between September and October

The weather is warm but pleasant, not uncomfortably hot like it can get in the summer. And if you’re looking for smaller crowds, the calmer seasons are usually:

  • April
  • May
  • September 
  • November

Although there’s something fun to do in Morocco no matter when you go, the best time overall for small crowds and great weather is either May or September.

Cheapest Time to Visit Morocco

Famous blue city of Chefchaouen during the cheapest time to visit Morocco with empty streets

Ruslan Kalnitsky/Shutterstock

The most significant part of trip planning is getting ready for the cost. Traveling is expensive, especially traveling internationally. Planning around slower tourist seasons could mean saving a bundle on flights and hotels.

Traveling to Morocco is the cheapest in November. The high season for travel is in the middle of spring, around March and April. The early months of fall can be pretty busy and expensive as well.

In November, you can book cheap flights and find great deals on hotel stays. You may even get a good discount on some of the better resort options in places like Tangier or Casablanca.

There are many upsides to visiting Morocco in November. The cheap accommodations and a small number of fellow tourists just happen to be two of the best.

Least Busy Time to Visit Morocco

Souvenirs on the Jamaa el Fna market in Old Medina, Marrakesh, during the least busy time to visit Morocco

Balate Dorin/Shutterstock

You’ll love visiting Morocco in November. Not only is it cheaper and cooler, but the crowds are minimal. You’ll have a great time if you don’t mind chilly evenings and the potential of seeing snow in the mountains.

It’s impossible to say that you’ll never hit a crowd visiting Morocco in November. No matter when you go, there are bound to be other tourists with the same idea you had: travel in the off-season and miss the crowds.

However, you can mitigate your exposure to other tourists by visiting in November. If you’re looking for smaller crowds so that you can better enjoy all that Morocco has to offer, November is the time to go.

Worst Time to Visit Morocco

Rainy day at the Koutoubia mosque during the worst time to visit Morocco

Migel/Shutterstock

It’s hard to say that anytime is the wrong time to visit Morocco. Regardless of the time of year, Morocco always has something to do. The country has so much to offer: exciting history, pristine beaches, and unique culture.

If you don’t like big crowds, try to avoid visiting Morocco in the spring or fall. Not only are these the busiest seasons, but spring can bring sandstorms from the Sahara and torrential rain from the north.

If you’re concerned about cost, it’s good to know that early spring and summer are the most expensive times to travel to Morocco. June and July are particularly pricey.

Picking the worst time to visit Morocco will depend more on your travel preferences than any particular tourist trend. Fortunately, there are plenty of travel options outside the busy season!

Things to Consider

Cute blonde on a camel in the desert in a jacket during the best time to visit Morocco

Stephen Bridger/Shutterstock

When you’re traveling to Morocco, try keeping some of these things in mind:

  • The evenings can turn very cold quickly
  • Bring plenty of converted currency as ATMs can be tricky
  • Be prepared to bargain at shops
  • You cannot enter most mosques as a non-Muslim
  • Study a map before traveling; Morocco is big
  • Try the local-made wine
  • Friday is a holy day, so business hours may differ
  • Stray animals are in abundance
  • Never take photos of locals without permission
  • Be prepared to be catcalled
  • Always dress modestly to avoid drawing unwanted attention
  • Tip well

These tips and tricks will help you have the best time possible when you travel to Morocco!

Frequently Asked Questions

Tangine plates pictured in a Moroccan market

G Ribiere/Shutterstock

Traveling to Morocco is the adventure of a lifetime. The country is host to incredible history, culture, and industry. The panoramic views of deserts, mountains, and beaches are unmatched. And it’s home to exciting local markets.

Let’s dive in with some of the most common questions people ask before planning an excursion to the great country of Morocco.

How many days do you need in Morocco?

The amount of time you need in Morocco depends entirely on what you want to accomplish while visiting. If you don’t give yourself enough time, you could miss out on some of the best things Morocco offers.

But traveling for too long might result in a trip that’s too expensive or exhaustion from being far from home.

Depending on your itinerary and capacity to have a good time, ten days should be enough time to check several items off your list. And in ten days, you’ll likely be ready to head back home. Anything less than that would just be sad.

What is the rainiest month in Morocco?

November is one of the rainiest months in Morocco. It is technically the beginning of the rainy season, which lasts until March. The climate can vary between the northern and southern areas of the country, but November is usually the rainiest.

What is the coldest month in Morocco?

January is typically the coldest month in Morocco. Historically January averages about 55 degrees. Conversely, the hottest month in Morocco is generally July. The average temperature in July is about 84 degrees.

What is the best city to visit in Morocco?

It’s hard to pick just one city in Morocco to visit. There are plenty of exciting options for your trip to Morocco. Check out any one of these cities for your Moroccan road trip:

  • Marrakech
  • Casablanca
  • Chefchaouen
  • Fez
  • Ouarzazate
  • Meknes
  • El Jadida
  • Larache
  • Tetouan
  • Rabat
  • Asilah
  • Essaouira
  • Agadir
  • Tangier
  • Tinghir

If you have a limited amount of time to travel, consider making cities like Fez, Marrakech, and Chefchaouen your top priority.

Is it safe to travel to Morocco?

Morocco is a safe country to travel in. Tourists should always remain vigilant when they’re traveling somewhere new. It is a good idea to keep your valuables in a safe place where pickpockets can’t access them.

The State Department occasionally issues travel advisories for Morocco. The current advisory level recommends increased caution for travelers visiting Morocco.

Regardless of what you’re traveling to in Morocco, paying close attention to your surroundings is always wise. Avoid going to isolated places and be wary of people offering free tours on the street.

Should I visit Casablanca or Marrakech?

You never want to have to pick between Casablanca and Marrakech. If you’re visiting Morocco, try to arrange your schedule to visit both places.

If you have to pick just one, most locals recommend visiting Marrakech over Casablanca. Marrakech has a lot of history and is exceptionally tourist-friendly. There are lots of colors and interesting things to see.

Although Casablanca has a lot of cultural currency with most visitors, thanks to the classic movie from the early 1900s, most tourists find the city a little cold. You might have a more relaxed time in Marrakech.

What are the most beautiful places in Morocco?

Finding the most beautiful spots in Morocco might be slightly subjective. However, there are a few places that you must visit for their famous beauty:

  • The Sahara Desert
  • La Vallee du Draa
  • Akchour Waterfalls in the Rif Mountains
  • Essaouira beaches
  • Paradise Valley in the High Atlas Mountains

From the stunning sunsets visible on the Moroccan coast to the beautiful peaks of the mountains, there’s no shortage of visual artistry to take in when you visit the North African country.

Is Morocco cheap to visit?

Morocco is a great place to visit for many reasons. One of the best reasons to go is the affordable prices. If you’re traveling on a budget, you don’t have to take Morocco out of the running.

As a big foreign destination, there’s a lot of healthy competition in the Moroccan tourism industry. That means the prices stay reasonably low, especially during the slower seasons.

The tourism industry keeps prices relatively reasonable, and the food options are incredibly affordable. Street food will give you access to fascinating local culture at a great price.

Can you drink alcohol in Morocco?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Morocco. While Moroccans don’t generally drink alcohol, visitors typically look for places where they can enjoy a drink or two. It’s a common misconception that alcohol is prohibited in Morocco because of its Islamic culture.

However, you can purchase and enjoy alcohol in plenty of places. Most hotels and bars are licensed to serve alcohol. There are also different tourist areas and supermarkets where you can purchase alcohol in Morocco.

Restrictions around alcohol are usually related to where it may be sold and consumed. For example, supermarkets typically have a different section from the rest of the stores where they sell alcohol.

Does Morocco have nightlife?

Yes, Morocco has excellent nightlife. Visitors will be more than pleasantly surprised to find several exciting options for the evening hours. If you’re spending time in Marrakech, check out Dameh.

It’s a great romantic option for an evening in the town with your special someone. Perhaps you’re in the mood for something more suited for a quiet night out with friends.

Hit up Darori in Fez, where you can enjoy an authentic Moroccan experience in a friendly atmosphere. Maybe live music is more your style. You can check out Chellah Beach in Tangier for local fare, good tunes, and a fun night you’ll never forget.

Can you go clubbing in Morocco?

You can definitely go clubbing in Morocco. The Moroccan nightlife is about more than just lovely meals and live shows. You can find fun clubs where you might meet other tourists and make a few new friends.

Is Morocco cheaper than Turkey?

Morocco is a great, cost-effective vacation destination. Travel and hotel accommodations are inexpensive, and the food options are reasonable. Turkey is another excellent option for affordable travel.

You don’t have to pay much for hotels or resorts, although you can easily find some excellent options. And street food in Turkey is just as cheap as in Morocco. Overall, Turkey is a cheaper option for travel than Morocco.

Is Morocco better to visit than Tunisia?

Tunisia is another fascinating North African country worth visiting. It has many cultures, history, and other interesting tourist attractions. In fact, Tunisia and Morocco have a lot in common.

These two countries have many striking similarities, from the architecture to the street food options to the outstanding landscapes. If you’re wondering whether to visit Morocco or Tunisia, you might have difficulty deciding.

However, others have answered the question for us. Most travelers agree that Morocco is the better option in terms of fun things to do and ways to stay occupied.

Things to Avoid in Morocco

When traveling to Morocco, ensure you’re prepared to respect the culture. Doing some research on what’s accepted and what’s not is a great way to do that. Here are a few things to watch out for in Morocco:

  • Disrespecting the monarchy is a criminal offense
  • Don’t eat with your left hand
  • Keep your beach clothes restricted to the beach
  • Remember that not everyone will speak English

Keeping these things in mind will help you have the best time possible in Morocco.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Morocco?

👍 Best Time to VisitMarch-May & September-October
💲 Cheapest Time to VisitNovember
🗓️ Least Busy Time to VisitNovember
👎 Worst Time to VisitJune & July

So, what’s the best time to visit Morocco? It all depends on your itinerary and your travel budget. It also depends on whether or not you want to fight the crowds of tourists who flock to Morocco every year.

If you want to save money and avoid the rest of the tourists, try visiting Morocco sometime around May, September, or November.

You won’t spend a fortune, and you can feel more relaxed traveling without the crowds. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for your Moroccan destination vacation today. Happy travels!