Morocco desert weather: Ouarzazate, Merzouga, Zagora
1 min read
- desert
- merzouga
- climate
The Moroccan desert, from Ouarzazate to the dunes of Merzouga and the Zagora valley, has an arid climate marked by very large day-to-night swings. The dry air amplifies the contrast: it can reach 30 °C in the afternoon and fall to 5 °C at night, even in the shoulder seasons.
When to go
- October to April: the best season, with warm, pleasant days (20–28 °C).
- Summer (Jun–Aug): best avoided, as afternoons often exceed 42–45 °C.
- Nights: cool to cold all year, so pack warm layers.
For an overnight bivouac at Merzouga or Zagora, always bring a jumper and a jacket, even in autumn. The clear skies and lack of humidity make for spectacular starry nights, but also send temperatures plunging once the sun sets. Check the live Ouarzazate or Zagora weather on MétéoMaroc to anticipate sandstorms and temperature swings.
