Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate: Weather, Seasons & Travel Tips – Ouarzazate, known as the Gateway to the Sahara Desert, is a year-round destination, but choosing the right time to visit can greatly improve your experience. With its desert climate, dramatic landscapes, and famous kasbahs, the city offers different advantages depending on the season.
This guide explains the best time to visit Ouarzazate, including weather conditions, crowd levels, and the ideal months for sightseeing and desert tours.
Overall Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate
👉 The best time to visit Ouarzazate is from March to May and from September to November.
During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for:
-
Exploring kasbahs and film studios
-
Visiting nearby oases and valleys
-
Taking desert excursions and camel treks
Spring (March to May) – Best Overall Season
Spring is considered the best season to visit Ouarzazate.
Why visit in spring?
-
Mild temperatures (20–28°C / 68–82°F)
-
Green valleys and blooming landscapes
-
Perfect for hiking and photography
Highlights:
-
Rose Valley blooms in April
-
Comfortable desert tours
-
Longer daylight hours
Autumn (September to November) – Best for Desert Trips
Autumn is another excellent time to visit.
Why visit in autumn?
-
Warm but comfortable temperatures
-
Clear skies and golden landscapes
-
Fewer crowds than spring
Ideal for:
-
Sahara desert tours (Zagora, Chegaga)
-
Outdoor activities
-
Cultural exploration
Summer (June to August) – For Heat Lovers & Budget Travelers
Summer in Ouarzazate can be extremely hot.
What to expect:
-
Daytime temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F)
-
Very low tourist crowds
-
Lower hotel prices
Travel tips:
-
Sightseeing early morning or late afternoon
-
Stay in riads with air conditioning
-
Avoid long desert excursions
Winter (December to February) – Mild Days, Cold Nights
Winter offers a quieter travel experience.
Pros:
-
Sunny days with temperatures around 15–20°C (59–68°F)
-
Ideal for city exploration and photography
-
Snow visible on the Atlas Mountains
Cons:
-
Cold nights (can drop below 5°C / 41°F)
-
Some desert camps close temporarily
Month-by-Month Overview
| Month | Weather | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | Cool | Quiet, scenic |
| Mar–Apr | Mild | Best overall |
| May | Warm | Excellent |
| Jun–Aug | Very hot | Budget travel |
| Sep–Oct | Warm | Best for desert |
| Nov | Mild | Comfortable |
| Dec | Cool | Calm & peaceful |
Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate for Specific Activities
-
Sightseeing & Kasbahs: March–May, September–November
-
Desert Tours: October–April
-
Photography: Spring & autumn
-
Budget Travel: Summer months
-
Cultural Experience: Winter
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Ouarzazate depends on your travel goals, but spring and autumn offer the perfect balance of weather, activities, and comfort. Avoid peak summer heat unless you’re prepared, and enjoy winter if you prefer calm and authentic experiences.
Ouarzazate is a destination that rewards visitors in every season—just choose the right time for your adventure.