Embark on the Marrakech Desert Trip

The best time of year to embark on the Marrakech Desert Trip is in late spring and early autumn. During this period, temperatures are moderate and offer comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is also an ideal time to visit Morocco’s coastal regions and take in azure blue beaches and unique architecture. Across the country, locals are celebrating spring and holiday season with festivals and events, making it a lively time to visit.

During the fall, you can take in the sights of Marrakech and Fez while enjoying cooler temperatures than in summer. The sand dunes of Erg Chebbi are at their most impressive, with high dunes and steep slopes rising up to 150 meters. At night, you can relax at a tented camp as the sun sets over a sea of sand, and enjoy a warm meal and a mystical evening under the starry sky.

In winter, you can expect chilly weather in the northern regions of the country, with snowfall in the Atlas Mountains. However, the temperature in Marrakech and other city centers is mild, making it easy to explore the medinas and indulge in cultural tours without the scorching heat of summer. During this time, the annual Festival of the Roses takes place in M’Goun Valley (AKA the Valley of the Roses), where you can see and smell beds of sweet Damascus roses as far as the eye can see.

Best Time of Year to Embark on the Marrakech Desert Trip

Depending on the exact dates of your Marrakech Desert Trip, you can experience a different event in the desert each month. For instance, in October, you can join the Erfoud Date Festival, a colorful celebration of the area’s plentiful date harvest. Or, in September, you can attend the Imilchil Marriage Festival, a unique cultural event where young men and women from Berber tribes come together to find a partner.

Whatever time of year you choose to travel, remember that a desert safari is best enjoyed with layers. Loose, light-colored clothing will help protect you from the overhead sun and swirling sand. A hat and woollen socks are essential, as is a warm jacket to keep you cozy at night. In winter, you’ll need extra layers for the Sahara, as the temperatures can drop to freezing at nighttime. A thermal top or leggings along with a hat and gloves are recommended. You can even purchase a woollen hat and gloves for your tour at the desert camps in order to support the local community. In addition, it is a good idea to bring water and snacks for the tour, as well as a camera to capture your once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the Moroccan desert. A small backpack is a convenient way to carry these essentials.