Where to Go in Morocco in Summer

Summer in Morocco is genuinely hot inland, but the country is large enough that some of its best places barely notice — you just have to pick the right ones.

Chefchaouen

Up in the Rif mountains, Chefchaouen's elevation keeps it noticeably milder than the plains, and the blue-washed lanes are just as photogenic in July as any other month. A hike to the nearby Akchour waterfalls makes a good, cooling day out.

Essaouira

Essaouira's steady Atlantic wind keeps temperatures in the 20–25°C range even in high summer, which is exactly why it's such a good windsurfing and kitesurfing town. Add a UNESCO-listed medina and fresh seafood and it's an easy place to spend a few days.

Ifrane

Known as Morocco's "Little Switzerland," Ifrane in the Middle Atlas runs 10–15°C cooler than the cities on the plains, with cedar forest and parks that are genuinely pleasant to walk in July.

Tangier

At the northern tip of the country, Tangier gets a Mediterranean climate rather than a Saharan one — a good base for the Rif and Chefchaouen without the inland heat.

The High Atlas

Villages like Imlil sit high enough to stay comfortable even in summer, and it's the season for wildflowers on the trails up toward Toubkal.

What to leave for another season

Marrakech and Fes can pass 40°C in summer, and the Sahara is genuinely too hot for daytime activity — save the desert crossing for spring or autumn if you can, or plan around the cooler early morning and evening hours if summer is your only window.

Practical tips

Pack light, breathable clothing and proper sun protection, schedule outdoor time for morning or late afternoon, and keep water on hand — dehydration sneaks up faster than it feels like it should.

Our Chefchaouen and Essaouira routes are built with exactly this kind of summer travel in mind — get in touch and we'll suggest a route that suits the season you're travelling in.