The best months for the Moroccan Sahara are October to April, when days are warm and sunny. Summer is very hot and winter nights are cold, but every season is possible if you plan for it.
Month by month
Approximate temperatures around Merzouga. Days and nights can vary a lot from one year to the next.
| Month | Day | Night | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | ≈ 18°C | ≈ 3°C | Sunny days, very cold nights. Bring a warm jacket. |
| February | ≈ 21°C | ≈ 5°C | Clear skies, still cold after sunset. |
| March | ≈ 25°C | ≈ 9°C | Pleasant. Windy days and sand in the air are more common in spring. |
| April | ≈ 29°C | ≈ 13°C | Warm and popular, especially around Easter. |
| May | ≈ 34°C | ≈ 18°C | Getting hot in the afternoon. |
| June | ≈ 40°C | ≈ 23°C | Hot. Activities move to early morning and evening. |
| July | ≈ 44°C | ≈ 27°C | The hottest month. Short stays work best. |
| August | ≈ 42°C | ≈ 26°C | Very hot. Warm nights under the stars. |
| September | ≈ 36°C | ≈ 21°C | Still hot, cooling at the end of the month. |
| October | ≈ 29°C | ≈ 15°C | One of the best months. Warm days, mild nights. |
| November | ≈ 22°C | ≈ 8°C | Calm, clear and comfortable. |
| December | ≈ 18°C | ≈ 4°C | Cold nights. Busy around Christmas and New Year. |
Autumn: October and November
Autumn is the easiest season. The summer heat is gone, the wind is usually calm and the nights are mild enough to sit outside by the fire. It is our favourite time for longer circuits that also cross the Atlas.
Winter: December to February
Winter days in the desert are often sunny and around 18 to 21°C, which is perfect for walking on the dunes. After sunset the temperature drops fast and can get close to freezing. Camps add extra blankets, but bring a warm jacket, a hat and warm socks. Snow can close the high mountain passes for a short time, so we keep an eye on the weather.
Spring: March to May
Spring is warm and green in the oases, with long evenings. It is also the windiest season, and some days bring sand in the air. Easter and the spring holidays are busy, so apply early.
Summer: June to September
Summer afternoons regularly pass 40°C. A summer trip is still possible: we leave early, rest during the hottest hours and ride into the dunes late in the afternoon. The reward is warm nights and the clearest view of the stars.
Other things to know
- Ramadan moves about 11 days earlier each year. Tours run as usual, but some cafés close during the day.
- Sunrise is worth getting up for in every season. It is usually cooler and calmer than the evening.
- The moon changes the night. A full moon lights up the dunes, and a new moon gives the best stars.
Questions
What is the best month to visit the Sahara?
October and November are usually the best, followed by March and April. You get warm days, comfortable nights and calm weather.
Is it too cold in the desert in winter?
Days are pleasant, but nights can drop close to 0°C. With warm clothes and the blankets at camp, most travellers are comfortable.
Can I visit the Sahara in summer?
Yes, but plan around the heat: early starts, a rest in the afternoon and activities at sunset and sunrise.
Updated 08/11/2026 by the Desertiva team in Merzouga.