Travelling to Morocco in August: Is it a Good Time to Visit?

Travelling to Morocco in August? Discover everything you need to know about visiting Morocco in the summer, from weather to crowds and where to go.

With its scorching temperatures and summertime crowds, August isn’t the ideal time to visit Morocco. If I’m being honest, it’s my least favourite month in the country, largely because I’m not a fan of the heat.

But I also understand that for many people, the summer holidays are the only time they have off work and school for a trip abroad. So what can you expect if you do travel to Morocco in August?

As the mercury soars, the inland cities can become almost unbearable and journeying into the Sahara Desert is best overlooked. But if you’re willing to plan your trip strategically and don’t need to tick off all the so-called “must-visit” spots, you can still get a lot out of an August vacation in Morocco. 

Seaside spots like Essaouira and Agadir offer a welcome respite from the inland heat, with pleasant ocean breezes and relatively mild temperatures.

The High Atlas Mountains experience a refreshing coolness that’s perfect for soaking in the stunning views. Although it can be hot on the hiking trails during the middle of the day.

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen also enjoys a more comfortable August climate. It can easily be visited from the artistic port city of Tangier.

If your heart is set on visiting Morocco’s hottest regions, including the inland cities of Marrakech and Fes, take a cue from the locals and adjust your daily rhythm to work with the climate. Siesta during the midday hours (when the sun is at its peak) and emerge in the cooler evenings to enjoy the energised nighttime atmosphere. 

With a bit of smart planning and flexibility, travelling to Morocco in August can still deliver some amazing experiences. So if this is the only time you have available to visit North Africa, I’d say: Don’t let the heat put you off!

In this article, I’ll explain exactly what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in August, from weather to events and the best places to visit.

If you’re focusing your travels on Marrakech, Fes, Agadir or Essaouira, click on the links to find detailed information about visiting each in August.

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Weather in Morocco in August

With the scorching summer sun beating down across much of Morocco, August can be a challenging time for travel. In Marrakech, the mercury often soars well past 40°C (100°F) and the Sahara Desert feels almost inhospitable during daylight hours.

Even the typically temperate Atlas Mountains are warm, with daily averages hovering in the high-20s/low-30s°C (80s°F).

That being said, the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines offer a welcome retreat if you’re travelling to Morocco in August. In the seaside city of Agadir, the cooling influence of the ocean helps to moderate temperatures. Expect daily highs hovering around 25°C (80°F).

The northern port of Tangier enjoys similarly comfortable conditions while the Rif Mountains town of Chefchaouen is slightly cooler.

Is August a popular time to visit Morocco?

August may not be the ideal time to visit Morocco for the classic Marrakech + Sahara itinerary. But the allure of the country at the peak of summer remains firm.

August is most definitely high season. Many Europeans and North Americans are on their long summer break, alongside Moroccans travelling during the school holidays.

If you’re travelling to Morocco in August, you’ll definitely feel a buzz in the air!

In some of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, it can be difficult to escape the presence of tour groups. Expect the most sought-after accommodations to book out well in advance.

If you’re visiting Morocco in August, I recommend locking in dates for hotels and securing tour bookings early, rather than travelling on a whim.

I’d also suggest finding riads and guesthouses with air conditioning. Not all properties in Morocco have it! And perhaps even splurge on somewhere with a swimming pool.

If I’m travelling around Morocco in August, I always try and find hotels or riads with pools so I can cool off in the afternoon.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that many urban areas grind to a halt during the hottest parts of the day. Some shop owners and workers will head home for a siesta. Most will return in the late afternoon once the mercury starts to dip and stay open extended hours at night.

As a result, there’s a real liveliness to Moroccan cities on warm summer nights as locals socialise with family and friends. This is my favourite part about being in Morocco during August. The festive atmosphere of warm summer nights!

Festivals and events in Morocco in August

Moussem Moulay Abdellah Amghar 

Taking place in early August, this moussem (spiritual pilgrimage) occurs near the coastal city of El Jadida. It’s roughly partway between Casablanca and Safi. Over the course of a week, more than half a million Muslims from across the country descend upon this sacred site.

For those who attend, the Moussem Moulay Abdellah Amghar is a chance to reaffirm their Islamic beliefs and deepen their connection to the divine through communal prayer and rituals. 

Imilchil Marriage Festival 

The Imilchil Marriage Festival is a large-scale match-making event. It draws young men and women to a remote Atlas Mountains village in late August/early September. For many of its participants, it is a once-a-year opportunity to meet potential life partners and start a family.

Dressed in their finest traditional attire, the unmarried are accompanied by their watchful parents, who play an important role in the love-finding process. The festival has a lively, celebratory atmosphere, complete with music, dancing and the preparation of local delicacies. 

Setti Fatma Moussem 

Held annually in the picturesque Ourika Valley, this four-day celebration honours Setti Fatma. A shrine for this local saint lies on the banks of the rushing river. While non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the koubba itself, the surrounding village comes alive during the moussem.

In addition to stalls selling local agricultural products and handicrafts, pilgrims arrive from near and far to experience the religious ceremonies, music and dance performance. 

Where to go in Morocco in August

With much of inland Morocco unbearably hot during August, the coast is the place to be. Destinations like Agadir, Asilah and Essaouira offer an escape from the heat. You can expect cool, ocean breezes and plenty of opportunities to swim and surf in the Atlantic waters.

If you prefer a Mediterranean beach vacation, head north to Al Hoceima and the Moroccan Riviera.

While the Atlas and Rif Mountains provide an altitude-driven temperature drop (and fewer crowds), midday can still be uncomfortably hot. Hikers should time their mountain adventures strategically.

Take breaks during the hottest hours of the day to recharge in the shade or cool off in the area’s rivers and canyons. And be sure to drink lots of water!

While the cities of Marrakech and Fes become virtual furnaces, temperatures are more bearable in Morocco’s northern cities, such as Rabat, Casablanca and Chefchaouen.

Urban-dwelling locals have perfected the art of rising early to accomplish tasks. Then, they’ll retreat indoors during the midday hours for a siesta. My advice would be to follow their lead and embrace afternoon napping!

Considering the crowds, the heat and the demand for accommodation, travelling to Morocco in August isn’t for the weak. But with a little foresight and flexibility, you can still make a height-of-summer holiday in this North African nation one to remember. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.