Which Moroccan destinations are good in August?

Essaouira (21-23°C thanks to the Atlantic wind), Chefchaouen (22-26°C in the Rif), Agadir (25-27°C on the beach), Tétouan and Tangier (Mediterranean and Atlantic coast). If you want Marrakech, limit the visit to 2 days maximum and start very early.

Can you do the Sahara Desert in August?

Technically yes but we don't recommend it. The Sahara in August exceeds 45-50°C and the camp is very uncomfortable even at night. If you want the Sahara, choose May, October or November for a far more enjoyable experience.

Should you book in advance for August?

Yes. August is peak season with many Moroccans living abroad returning home. The best riads and transport fill up weeks in advance. Book at least 4-6 weeks ahead.

Morocco in August 2025 | What to See, Where to Go and What to Expect

Q: Is it worth visiting Morocco in August?

It depends on the destination. The Atlantic coast (Essaouira, Agadir) and the north (Chefchaouen) are perfect in August with 20-24°C. Marrakech and the Sahara are very hot (38-45°C) and only suitable for travellers who can handle intense heat. If visiting in August, focus the itinerary on the north and the coast.

Q: How hot does it get in Marrakech in August?

Marrakech in August exceeds 40°C during the day, with overnight lows of 25°C. The heat is dry but exhausting for walking through the medina. We recommend very early outings (before 10am), a midday rest at the riad and evening activities.

Summer Guide

August in Morocco: Destinations Yes vs Destinations No

The key to a great trip in August is knowing exactly which areas work and which to avoid. Morocco is a country of very diverse climates: while the interior scorches, the coast and the north enjoy perfect temperatures.

Perfect Destinations in August

Essaouira — 21-23°C, refreshing Atlantic wind, beach
Chefchaouen — 22-26°C, cool in the Rif mountains
Agadir — 25-27°C, perfect beach, Atlantic resort
Tangier — 24-27°C, Mediterranean and Atlantic coast
Tétouan — 25°C, medina and beach 10 min away
Al Hoceima — crystal-clear water, ideal temperature

Destinations to Avoid (or Limit)

Marrakech — 40-44°C, stifling in the medina during the day
Sahara Desert (Merzouga) — 45-50°C, unbearable
Ouarzazate — 38-42°C, intense heat
Fes — 38-42°C, very hot medina
Meknes — 36-40°C, similar to Fes
Draa Valley — 40°C+, though impressive

Recommended August itinerary: Flight to Casablanca or Tangier → 2 days Chefchaouen → Fes (early morning, siesta, late afternoon/evening) → Essaouira along the coast → Marrakech 1-2 nights (museums and souks only at dawn and sunset). Skip the Sahara completely in August.

Practical Tips for August in Morocco

Smart scheduling

Visit monuments before 10am and after 6pm. Rest at the riad from 1pm to 4pm. The souks are fantastic at night.

Stay hydrated

Drink at least 3 litres of water a day. Bottled water is available everywhere. Avoid direct sun exposure between 12pm-5pm.

A/C accommodation

Choose riads and hotels with air conditioning and a pool. Don't cut corners on accommodation in August — comfort is essential for an enjoyable trip.

Appropriate clothing

Light linen or cotton clothing, a hat and high-factor sun protection. Women should keep shoulders covered in the medina — it shows cultural respect and attracts less unwanted attention.

Can you change your dates? Consider these alternatives

If you have flexibility, September-November and March-May are infinitely better for the full Morocco experience. But if August is your only option, we guarantee an excellent trip focused on the coast and the north.

Morocco in October Easter Best time to visit

Frequently Asked Questions about August in Morocco

Is it worth visiting Morocco in August?

If you go to the Atlantic coast (Essaouira, Agadir) or the north (Chefchaouen, Tangier), August is perfect with 20-26°C. If the plan includes Marrakech and the Sahara, the heat (38-45°C) can ruin the experience. You can combine both with the right strategy.

How hot does it get in Marrakech in August?

Marrakech exceeds 40°C during the day, with overnight lows of 25°C. The heat is dry but exhausting for walking through the medina. With a guide who knows the timings and shaded routes, it is possible to visit the city comfortably if you start very early.

Is Morocco very crowded in August?

Yes, August is one of the busiest seasons: many European tourists plus millions of Moroccans living abroad returning home. Airports, roads and riads are very busy. Book everything months in advance.

Which circuit do you recommend for August?

The north-coast itinerary is ideal in August: Tangier (1 day), Chefchaouen (2 days), Fes (2 days, morning and late-evening visits), Essaouira (2 days of beach and relaxation) and Marrakech (1-2 days maximum, starting very early). No Sahara, no hot interior.

Trip to Morocco in August?

We design the perfect summer itinerary: making the most of the coast and the north, with southern visits carefully timed to avoid the heat. Write to us with your dates.

Plan a Summer Itinerary

Morocco in AugustThe Honest Summer Guide