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Why October is the Perfect Time to Discover Morocco
If you are planning a trip to Morocco, October is one of the best months of the year to explore this magical country. The scorching summer heat has faded, the winter chill has not yet arrived, and the weather is comfortably warm. With sunny days, cool evenings, and fewer crowds than the peak tourist season, October offers the ideal balance for travelers.
Whether you dream of wandering through the colorful souks of Marrakech, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, relaxing on the beaches of Agadir, or riding camels across the golden Sahara dunes, October gives you the perfect climate to enjoy it all. This month truly captures Morocco at its best — warm, vibrant, and welcoming.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the climate in Morocco in October, including regional weather, average temperatures, what to pack, and travel tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Overview of Morocco’s Climate in October
October marks the shift from Morocco’s hot summer to its mild autumn. The climate in Morocco in October is generally pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) depending on the region. Nights are cooler, especially in the desert and mountains, so a light jacket or sweater is necessary.
Rainfall begins to increase slightly in the north, but the southern and desert areas remain dry and sunny. This makes October an excellent month for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and desert excursions.
Quick overview:
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Average daytime temperature: 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F)
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Night temperature: 12°C – 18°C (53°F – 64°F)
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Sunshine: Around 8 hours per day
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Rainfall: Light to moderate in northern cities, almost none in the desert
Regional Climate in October
1. Marrakech
Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most popular destinations, and October is perfect for exploring its palaces, gardens, and markets.
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Daytime highs: 26°C – 29°C (78°F – 84°F)
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Nighttime lows: 14°C – 16°C (57°F – 61°F)
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Rain: Minimal, occasional showers
The weather in Marrakech in October is warm but not overwhelming, making it comfortable for walking around Jemaa el-Fnaa square or enjoying rooftop dinners under the stars.
2. Fes
Known for its historic medina and traditional culture, Fes enjoys cooler weather in October compared to Marrakech.
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Daytime highs: 23°C – 25°C (73°F – 77°F)
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Nighttime lows: 12°C – 14°C (53°F – 57°F)
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Rain: Light showers possible
Fes is ideal to visit in October, as the narrow streets of the medina can be hot and crowded in summer but feel refreshing during autumn.
3. Casablanca and Rabat
On Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Casablanca and Rabat experience milder October weather with cool sea breezes.
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Daytime highs: 22°C – 25°C (72°F – 77°F)
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Nighttime lows: 15°C – 17°C (59°F – 62°F)
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Rain: A few rainy days possible
The coastal cities are comfortable for sightseeing, walking along the Corniche, and exploring historical landmarks like Hassan Tower or the Hassan II Mosque.
4. Sahara Desert (Merzouga, Zagora)
The Sahara Desert is magical in October. The extreme summer heat is gone, replaced by pleasant days and cooler nights.
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Daytime highs: 28°C – 32°C (82°F – 89°F)
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Nighttime lows: 12°C – 15°C (54°F – 59°F)
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Rain: Almost none
October is one of the best months for a camel trek or overnight stay in a desert camp. The stargazing is unforgettable under clear autumn skies.
5. Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains are cooler than the rest of Morocco. October is perfect for trekking before the winter snow sets in.
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Daytime highs: 18°C – 22°C (64°F – 72°F)
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Nighttime lows: 8°C – 10°C (46°F – 50°F)
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Rain: Some rain in higher altitudes
If you enjoy hiking or nature, October is one of the most rewarding times to explore the Atlas trails.
Day vs Night Temperatures
One of the most important things to know about Morocco’s climate in October is the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures.
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Daytime: Warm, comfortable, perfect for sightseeing.
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Nighttime: Cooler, especially in the desert and mountains.
Always bring layers — a T-shirt for the day and a sweater or light jacket for evenings.
What to Pack for Morocco in October
Packing smartly will help you enjoy Morocco in October without discomfort.
Clothing:
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Light cotton clothes for the day
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Long-sleeve shirts and trousers for cooler evenings
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A light jacket or sweater for nights in the desert or mountains
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Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
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A scarf or shawl (for both sun protection and cultural respect when visiting mosques)
Other essentials:
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Sunscreen (the sun is still strong)
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Sunglasses and a hat
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Reusable water bottle
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Small umbrella for northern cities (just in case of rain)
Activities and Festivals in October
The mild climate in October makes Morocco perfect for a wide range of activities.
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Desert Tours: October is one of the best times for camel trekking in the Sahara.
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Cultural Festivals: Depending on the year, you may catch music or art festivals in Marrakech and Rabat.
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Beach Relaxation: Agadir and Essaouira are still warm enough for swimming.
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Hiking: The Atlas Mountains are stunning with autumn colors.
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City Tours: Fes, Marrakech, and Casablanca are lively and less crowded compared to summer.
Why October is a Great Month to Visit Morocco
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Perfect weather – warm days, cool nights, less extreme than summer.
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Fewer tourists – more space in popular attractions.
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Lower prices – hotels and tours can be more affordable.
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Rich experiences – desert trips, city tours, and mountain hikes are all possible in the same trip.
October is a sweet spot where you can enjoy everything Morocco has to offer without the intense heat or the winter cold.
Travel Tips for Morocco in October
Book desert tours early: October is a popular month for Sahara trips.
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Stay hydrated: Even in autumn, the Moroccan sun is strong.
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Respect cultural norms: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
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Prepare for cooler nights: Especially in the desert and mountains.
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Check festivals: Some local events may coincide with your trip, adding to the experience.
Conclusion
The climate in Morocco in October is one of the best for travelers who want to experience the country’s magic without the discomfort of summer heat or winter cold. From the warm souks of Marrakech to the golden dunes of the Sahara, October offers the ideal balance of sunshine, cool evenings, and vibrant cultural life.
If you are wondering when is the best time to visit Morocco, October should be at the top of your list. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with Morocco this autumn.