Best Time to Visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco

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Written by Hassan, host at Hotel Les Roches Merzouga — hosting Sahara travellers since 2004.

The short answer: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit the Moroccan Sahara. You get warm, comfortable days and cool — not freezing — nights, ideal for camel trekking and sleeping in a desert camp.

Season by season

Spring (March–May) ⭐ Best

Mild to warm days (20–30°C), pleasant nights, wildflowers after winter rains and the seasonal Dayet Srij lake sometimes hosting flamingos. The most popular season — book ahead.

Autumn (September–November) ⭐ Best

Summer heat fades into warm, stable days and cooler nights. Excellent for trekking and photography, with fewer crowds than spring.

Winter (December–February)

Quiet and atmospheric. Days are pleasant (15–20°C) but nights are cold, sometimes near freezing — bring warm layers. The payoff is crystal-clear skies and superb stargazing.

Summer (June–August)

Very hot at midday (often 40°C+). Still doable if you trek at sunrise and sunset and rest by the pool in between, and prices are lower — but it's not for everyone.

So when should you go?

For the best all-round experience, aim for April, May, October or November. Whenever you come, our desert tours run year-round and we'll advise on what to pack.