Sahara Desert Morocco Weather: A Month-By-Month Breakdown
Are you planning a trip to the Sahara Desert? Understanding the Sahara Desert, Morocco weather is crucial for an unforgettable adventure.
The seemingly endless dune-scapes and desert oases are easily some of the best things to see in Morocco. Let’s arm you with all the seasonal insights you need to make the most of your journey.
Seasonal Guide to Sahara Desert Weather in Morocco
Let’s dive into the desert weather so you know what to expect and can decide when to visit Morocco.
Spring
Daytime temperature: Around 25-30°C (77-86°F)
Nighttime temperature: Around 10°C (50°F)
Humidity: Low
Spring is often hailed as the best time to visit the Sahara Desert. From March to May, the temperatures are moderate, ranging between 20°C and 30°C.
It’s the perfect season for camel trekking and overnight stays in desert camps. Just be aware occasional sandstorms can sweep through, so know what to wear in the Sahara Desert, Morocco and pack a scarf or face mask.
Summer
Daytime temperature: Exceeding 40°C (104°F)
Nighttime temperature: Cooler but still warm
Humidity: Very low
Summer in the Sahara is not for the faint-hearted. From June to August, daytime temperatures can soar up to 45°C. If you’re daring enough to venture during this season, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and avoid midday outdoor activities. Consider a siesta to escape the peak heat, and always wear high-SPF sunscreen.
Autumn
Daytime temperature: Around 21°C (70°F)
Nighttime temperature: Cooler, varies but generally above 10°C (50°F)
Humidity: Moderate, with an increase in rainy days starting in late October
Autumn, from September to November, offers a reprieve from the summer heat. Temperatures are pleasant, but the weather can be unpredictable. One day might be perfect for Morocco camel trekking, while the next could be a washout. Always check the local weather forecast and pack layers to adapt to changing conditions.
Winter
Daytime temperature: Above 10°C (50°F)
Nighttime temperature: Can drop to near-freezing levels
Humidity: Higher, with an average of two inches of rain per month
Contrary to popular belief, winters in the Sahara can be chilly, especially at night when temperatures can drop to near freezing. If you’re planning on spending the night in the Sahara desert, Morocco during this season, pack thermal layers and a good-quality sleeping bag for those cold desert nights.
Month-by-Month Sahara Desert Conditions
One of the most important things to know before going to Morocco is the monthly temperatures, this way you can steer clear of the hottest and most uncomfortable months. Here’s a quick breakdown of the monthly weather in the Sahara desert.
January: Cold Nights and Mild Days
Daytime temperatures hover around 18°C, but nights can drop to a chilly 5°C. It’s a quieter time for tourism, so you’ll have the dunes mostly to yourself.
February: Still Cold, but Warming Up
February sees daytime temperatures of about 20°C and nighttime lows of 7°C. It’s still the shoulder season, offering fewer crowds, whether you visit Marrakech or Casablanca.
March: Spring Sandstorms
March brings warmer days with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. However, be prepared for spring sandstorms. Nighttime temperatures stay around 10°C.
April: Blooming Trees and Mild Temperatures
Daytime temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 27°C to 32°C. Nights are milder, too, averaging around 15°C. The landscape comes alive with blooming flora. During this time animals in the Morocco desert are also more active
May: Warmer Days, Perfect for Hiking
May heats up with daytime temperatures averaging around 35°C. Nights are warm but comfortable at around 20°C, making it great for evening hiking near Marrakech.
June: The Heat Begins
June marks the beginning of the hot season, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 40°C. Nighttime offers little respite, with lows of 25°C.
July: Scorching Temperatures
July is the peak of summer, with daytime temperatures soaring to 45°C. Nights are hot, too, rarely going below 30°C.
August: Avoid the Sahara, Head to the Coast
August continues the heatwave with daytime highs of 45°C. It’s advisable to head to the coast where it’s cooler, as nighttime temperatures in the desert stay around 30°C.
September: Cooling Down, Perfect for Festivals
September offers relief, with daytime temperatures dropping to around 38°C. Nights become more comfortable, averaging 20°C.
October: The Best Time To Visit The Sahara Desert?
October is a tourist favourite, with daytime temperatures of 30°C and nighttime lows of 15°C. It’s a great time for various outdoor activities, like a group Morocco desert trekking adventure. There are multiple options during this time to join group tours in the desert, a fantastic way to meet other travellers if you are travelling Morocco solo.
November: Cooler Days and Fewer Crowds
November cools down further with daytime highs of 25°C and nighttime lows of 10°C. It’s an excellent time for those who prefer fewer crowds.
December: Winter Sun and Snowy Mountains
December offers daytime temperatures of around 20°C but can get quite cold at night, dropping to 5°C. The Atlas Mountains in the backdrop might even have a dusting of snow. Hiking enthusiasts may want to skip the desert and book a winter ascent up Toubkal instead.
The Climate Zones of Morocco
Morocco is a land of climatic contrasts, and understanding these variations is critical to planning your Sahara adventure. From the balmy Mediterranean coast to the arid expanses of the Sahara Desert, each region offers a unique weather experience.
The Coast: A Mediterranean Climate
The coastal regions, including cities like Casablanca and Tangier, enjoy a Mediterranean climate. Expect mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C in winter to 30°C in summer, making it a year-round destination.
The Atlas Mountains: A High-altitude Experience
The Atlas Mountains cut across Morocco, offering cooler temperatures and even snowfall in winter. During summer, temperatures can be as cool as 20°C, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of the lowlands. It’s often the best time to climb Mount Toubkal.
The Sahara Desert: Extreme and Unpredictable
The Sahara is the epitome of extremity. From scorching daytime temperatures that can reach up to 45°C in summer to freezing nights in winter, it’s a place of stark contrasts. Sandstorms in spring and intense heat in summer make it a challenging yet rewarding destination.
The Misconceptions About Sahara Weather
When it comes to the Sahara Desert, many people have preconceived notions that don’t quite hit the mark. Let’s set the record straight on some of the most common misconceptions.
Myth 1: It’s Always Hot
Contrary to popular belief, the Sahara isn’t always a furnace. While daytime temperatures can soar, especially in the summer, nights can be surprisingly cold. In winter, nighttime temperatures can even drop to freezing levels. So, if you’re planning a trip, pack for a range of temperatures.
Myth 2: No Rainfall Means No Life
While it’s true that the Sahara is one of the driest places on Earth, it’s not devoid of life. The occasional rainfall supports a variety of flora and fauna, including hardy shrubs and even some wildlife like fennec foxes.
Myth 3: Sandstorms Are Rare
Many people think sandstorms are a once-in-a-blue-moon event. In reality, they’re more common than you’d think, especially during the spring months. A scarf or face mask can be a lifesaver.
Myth 4: It’s Just Sand Dunes
The Sahara offers more than just endless sand dunes. You’ll also find rocky plateaus, salt flats, and even oases. Each of these landscapes comes with its own microclimate, adding to the Sahara’s climatic complexity.
