Is August a good time to visit Fes? Fes in August is hot, hot, hot and definitely won’t appeal to all travellers. You can expect temperatures in the mid-to-high 30s C (high 90s F), although it can feel hotter amidst all the hard, radiating surfaces of the medina.
While August may not be the ideal time to visit Fes, it's still possible to have a memorable and enjoyable experience if you plan your itinerary thoughtfully. This means rising early and doing the bulk of your sightseeing in the morning before retreating to somewhere cool (a museum, a riad or a hotel pool) in the afternoon. Many Moroccans will siesta during the heat of the day before venturing out again in the evening and nighttimes in Fes have a really festive atmosphere in the summertime!
Because of the heat, many travellers choose to avoid Fes in August in favour of milder coastal cities, such as Essaouira and Agadir. As a result, some Fes riads and hotels will lower their prices and you can score some great deals if you look around. Compared to many destinations across Europe where accommodation prices are sky-high in August, Fes offers a more affordable summer vacation experience.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Fes in August, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Fes in August to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in August here.
For more information about visiting this ancient, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Fes.
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Fes weather in August
In August, Fes is sizzling, with daytime temperatures reaching average highs of around 36°C (97°F). With the dry heat emanating from the medina's walls, it can feel much hotter, particularly in the mid afternoon. Because of this, it’s best to explore in the early morning hours and then retreat to the cool comfort of your riad or hotel when the heat becomes too much.
As evening falls, temperatures drop to a more pleasant 19°C (66°F) - perfect for alfresco dining and nighttime strolls. When packing for an August trip to Fes, I’d recommend bringing loose, breathable attire that offers good coverage, as the city maintains a conservative dress code despite the heat.
August sees very little rainfall in Fes, with an average of just 5 mm for the month, so you can safely leave your rain gear behind! However, don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen, as the UV levels can be quite high during this season.
Visiting Fes in August
Is August a busy time in Fes?
With many Europeans and North Americans on their annual summer vacation, August can be busy in Fes, despite the heat. While you might think the weather would keep people away, for many, it’s the only time they have off work and school to travel to Morocco. That being said, August isn't as packed as the shoulder months of May and September, which offer perfect weather for exploring the city.
Because of this, you can find lower accommodation prices at some riads and hotels due to the slightly decreased demand. However, it's wise to book early, as the best places in Fes tend to get reserved well in advance! Ideally, look for a riad with a pool so you can cool off during the warm afternoons and check that it has air conditioning before you commit.
Best things to do in Fes in August
What’s on in Fes in August
Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People
The Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People is celebrated annually on August 20th to commemorate the nation's hard-fought struggle for independence from colonial rule. It remembers the Royal Family who were forced into exile in 1953 and honours the sacrifices made by Moroccans who risked everything to secure their country's freedom and self-determination. Today, it is marked as a public holiday in Morocco and an occasion for national reflection and celebration. Aside from the closure of government offices, banks and some businesses, you can expect a televised speech from the King.
Best things to do in Fes in August
Best things to do in Fes in August
Yes, the daytime temperatures are intense in August but it wouldn’t be a visit to Fes without exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina of Fes el-Bali. In addition to its artisan workshops and traditional souks, it’s home to some magnificent architectural landmarks that include mosques and madrasas. Be sure to visit the 14th-century Bou Inania Madrasa and Al Attarine Madrasa (both of which feature ornate tilework, carved cedar wood and tranquil courtyards) and witness the centuries-old tradition of leather tanning at the Choura Tannery.
Once the heat starts to rise, take a break back at your Fes riad or hotel - you can relax beside the pool, indulge in a siesta or simply sip Moroccan mint tea in the shaded courtyard. If you have trouble relaxing on holidays, then consider visiting one of Fes’ fascinating museums, with the air conditioning providing a welcome respite from the heat outside. The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts features stunningly designed doors and mashrabiya screens while Dar Batha is famous for its remarkable collection of ceramics. Additionally, the Museum of Arms at Borj Nord exhibits an extensive array of weaponry, including several pieces that were made in Fes.
With its unique Fassi cuisine, Fes is definitely one of the best places in Morocco to do a cooking class, and with most taking place indoors, it’s also a great opportunity to stay cool. You can opt for a relaxed, family-run experience (this is a great way to connect with locals) or sign up for one of the highly professional cooking classes at Palais Amani. If you’re a foodie who wants to learn about Fassi cuisine without doing the cooking yourself, there are plenty of other food tours and experiences in Fes.
If I’m being honest, I don’t think that August is a great time for day trips to Meknes and Volubilis, even though both are fantastic destinations. By the time you arrive, the temperatures are likely to have risen to uncomfortable levels and the Roman ruins of Volubilis are particularly exposed. If you do decide to visit, be sure to bring lots of water and protect yourself against the sun.
Is August a good time to visit Fes?
Is August a good time to visit Fes?
August really isn’t the best time to visit Fes (March to May and September to November are far better in my opinion) but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an enjoyable experience if this is your only opportunity to travel. While it can get scorchingly hot in the midday sun, you can escape the worst by planning your activities in the early morning and late afternoon/evening.
I’d suggest taking a stroll through the medina in the early morning when temperatures are cooler and ticking off some of the city’s architectural landmarks (those that close in the evenings). After lunch, when it gets really warm, you can participate in a cooking class, head inside to explore one of the city’s cultural museums or unwind at your riad - perhaps sipping tea in a shaded courtyard or relaxing by the pool.
For those who prefer a fast-paced travel experience or want to see everything in just a day or two, visiting Fes in August might not be the best choice. But if you’re willing to embrace a more leisurely travel style that allows for periods of rest and relaxation (follow the locals' for inspiration!), then you can have a really memorable experience in this ancient city.
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.