Best time to go walking in Morocco

Although some trekking routes in the High Atlas close in the winter due to snowy conditions, you can still join a trek to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, tackling the snow and ice with picks, crampons and experienced guides. The winter climbing season here begins in November, running through December, January, February, March and April. The Anti-Atlas Mountains sit closer to the Atlantic, with lower altitudes and latitudes than the High Atlas. It means the Anti-Atlas is the mildest of Morocco’s mountain regions in winter. Walking is great from October to April, with warm days (15-20°C) and clear skies, but the nights are generally cold and sometimes drop below freezing. There is the occasional snowfall on the highest peaks and passes, but not enough to prevent walking. Due to its proximity to the Sahara, June, July and August right up to mid September are extremely hot. Spring in the High Atlas is wonderful as the wildflowers, from poppies to wild orchids, blue gentian to blankets of pink and purple scabious, pop up like magic. Spring is a fluid affair in the Atlas Mountains, starting as early as February in some parts. Temperatures become milder in the High Atlas come March, with highs of about 27°C, although it can still dip below freezing at night. The High Atlas Mountains are really lush in April, with walking great her right through until September or early October. In October, temperatures start to dip in the main walking regions, with an average of about 18°C, rather than the warm 25°C you can expect in September. If you’re tackling Toubkal, be aware that there can be patches of snow in late April and early May and from the end of September, so crampons may be needed for April and October treks. There can be up to a 15°C difference in temperature between Morocco’s lowlands and mountains during high summer. This can make it a hot 30°C in July or August in the High Atlas, while Marrakech is way up there in the 40s. There’s no need to avoid Morocco during Ramadan. A few businesses and restaurants may shut, but walking vacations aren’t affected, as local guides and drivers typically choose to work. Do keep in mind, though, that their energy levels may be a bit lower during this time. If you’re spending time in Marrakech or other cities before or after your trek, you may find it quieter during the day, but at night there’s a wonderful, festive atmosphere as locals break their fast and then come out to meet friends. In 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027, Ramadan falls across February and March.