Is September a Good Time to Visit Morocco? A Solo Traveller’s Guide
If you’re planning a solo trip to Morocco and debating when to go, September might be the sweet spot you didn’t know you were looking for. The extreme heart of summer is beginning to fade and peak-season crowds are starting to thin out.
But the ocean’s still warm enough to swim and the desert’s becoming bearable again (it’s really too hot in August to venture to the Sahara). Essentially, there is so much potential in September when planning a Morocco itinerary – I can’t think of many places you shouldn’t go.
Having lived through numerous Moroccan summers, I always breathe a sigh of relief when September arrives. I’m not someone who loves the heat. So the respite in temperatures that come with autumn’s arrival is welcome in my books.
But is September the right month for you as a solo traveller?
In this article, I’ll share what you can expect if you’re travelling solo to Morocco in September, from weather and crowds to safety, costs and the best places to visit. It’s designed to help you decide if an early autumn vacation in Morocco is right for you and plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
For more seasonal recommendations, check out my solo traveller’s guides to visiting Morocco in July and August.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
Why Visit Morocco in September?
✔ Idyllic Weather
While the heat of August makes some parts of Morocco less appealing to visit (namely the desert regions), the cooler temps of September reverse that. It’s not unbearable to be sightseeing in a medina during the middle of the day and hiking is once again pleasant (in the Atlas or Rif Mountains). Added to that, there’s still enough warmth in the air to make Morocco’s coastlines alluring, whether you’re heading to the Mediterranean or Atlantic.
✔ Music Festivals
While August in Morocco is more about cultural festivals, September is the month for music. Tangier hosts its annual Tanjazz Festival, attracting world-class musicians from North Africa and beyond. Meanwhile, Casablanca serves as a backdrop for L’Boulevard, a week-long festival that showcases electronic, rock and underground artists.
✔ Long Daylight Hours
Daylight hours in September are on the decline, but there’s still heaps of time for exploration. The sun usually rises around 7 am and sets at 7:30 pm, giving you a full 12 hours for sightseeing and activities. For solo travellers worried about safety, this gives peace of mind that you don’t have to be out and about after dark (if you don’t want to be).
September Weather in Morocco
September in Morocco means warm-to-hot temperatures across the country and minimal rainfall throughout the month. Due to the country’s size and varying elevations, conditions and temperatures differ, depending on which region you visit.
- Inland cities (Marrakech, Fes, Meknes): Expect warm-to-hot days and mild evenings
- Coastal areas (Essaouira, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir): Cooler and breezier, with daytime temperatures typically in the high 20s/low 30s°C.
- Atlas Mountains: Warm during the day but mild at night.
- Sahara Desert: Hot (at the start of September) with temperatures sometimes exceeding 40°C and more bearable towards the end of the month.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when visiting Morocco in September:
Marrakech
- Day: 30-35°C
- Night: 18-21°C
- Hot days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Marrakech in September in my detailed article here.
Fes
- Day: 30-34°C
- Night: 16-20°C
- Warm mornings, hot afternoons
You can learn more about visiting Fes in September in my detailed article here.
Chefchaouen
- Day: 26-30°C
- Night: 13–16°C
- Warm days, cool-to- mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Chefchaouen in my solo traveller’s guide here.
Agadir
- Day: 26–30°C
- Night: 17–20°C
- Warm days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Agadir in September in my detailed article here.
Sahara Desert
- Day: 30–40°C
- Night: 15–20°C
- Hot days, mild nights
Discover everything you need to know about travelling solo to the Sahara Desert in my detailed guide here.
Atlas Mountains
- Temperatures vary depending on elevation – lower valleys are 23-30°C and higher peaks are 10–18°C.
Solo tip:
Considering the intense heat of the Sahara in early September, I would advise against planning a visit during this part of the month. Try and wait until late September if possible.
If you do decide to go earlier in the month, plan your activities for the early morning or just before sunset when the temperatures are more bearable. Keep hydrated and always seek shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Being out on a camel trek when the sun is at its highest is not advantageous for you or the animals!
Best Places to Visit in Morocco in September
1. Tangier
There are lots of reasons to visit Tangier, but September adds one more – the Tanjazz Festival. This three-day celebration brings together both local and international artists, including Afro-jazz legends. In 2026, it will take place from 18-20 September.
In Tangier, you’ll also find excellent museums and striking street art to explore, along with some amazing seafood restaurants and creative concept stores. Additionally, there are plenty of sun-drenched beaches (both Mediterranean and Atlantic) just a short distance away.
Tangier also serves as a great starting point for discovering northern Morocco. The UNESCO-listed medina of Tetouan is just a little over an hour’s drive and Chefchaouen is reachable in about two hours. The artsy town of Asilah is only a 45-minute drive south along the coast.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Tangier in my solo traveller’s guide.
2. Atlas Mountains
While the hiking trails of the Atlas Mountains can be uncomfortably hot in the August midday sun, things are becoming milder as September progresses. In my opinion, late September is a great time to hike in Morocco!
Additionally, there are lots of atmospheric hotels and ecolodges in the Atlas Mountains if you just want to soak up the views, rather than hike. Plus, you can visit artisan cooperatives and explore Amazigh villages – there are lots of things to do in the Atlas Mountains aside from hiking.
For solo travellers, there is no shortage of guided tours that allow you to explore the area as part of a small-group experience. Homestays can also be arranged that allow you to connect deeply with local communities in the Atlas Mountains.
3. Chefchaouen
With its magnificent Rif Mountains setting, Chefchaouen is a wonderful destination during Morocco’s hotter months. It experiences milder weather compared to nearby Fes, and in September, you’ll avoid the crowds that descend in July and August.
In September, you can look forward to sunny days that are perfect for exploring Chefchaouen’s medina and hiking to the Spanish Mosque. In the evenings, the mild temperatures create a lovely atmosphere for outdoor dining in Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
There are also lots of hiking trails in the Rif Mountains (some of which depart from Chefchaouen itself) and September is the perfect time to explore. If you just want a taste, you can opt for the ever-popular trail that leads to the Cascades d’Akchour in Talassemtane National Park.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Chefchaouen in my solo traveller’s guide.
4. Essaouira
If you’re looking for a mix of coastal relaxation and cultural exploration, Essaouira is an excellent choice in September. The crowds of August are starting to dissipate and there’s more room to move in the medina.
That being said, the temperatures are still warm enough to give you that summery vibe that makes Essaouira so alluring!
Aside from its abundant art galleries, Essaouira boasts lots of eclectic cafes and a great choice of seafood restaurants. You can also just wander down to the port and select your fish at the market, then have it grilled to perfection at one of the nearby barbecue stands.
Once you’ve explored the medina, consider venturing further afield on a day trip from Essaouira. There are argan forests and oil cooperatives to discover, as well as charming beach villages such as Sidi Kaouki.
Discover some of the best things to do in Essaouira for solo travellers.
5. Agadir & Taghazout
If you’re craving a classic beach escape in Morocco, the area around Agadir and Taghazout is a perfect choice. Kids are back at school in September, so the sand is far less busy, but the temperatures are still warm enough for an Atlantic dip.
If you’re keen on learning to surf in Taghazout, September is an excellent month. You can expect fewer crowds and small waves outside of the winter swell season.
Plage d’Agadir is the place to head for a lazy day at the beach. It boasts a long sweep of sand and there’s plenty of room for beach umbrellas and loungers.
And when you get tired of the beach (does that happen?), you can wander the immense market of Souk El Had, explore some of Agadir’s earthquake museums or venture to the “Mini Marrakech” of Taroudant.
Agadir also makes a great base for visiting the natural pools of Paradise Valley and the silver town of Tiznit.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Agadir in my solo traveller’s guide.
6. Rabat
If museums and monuments are more your thing, consider heading to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The temperatures here are generally cooler compared to Marrakech and Fes, thanks to its coastal setting beside the Atlantic Ocean.
Among the must-see attractions in Rabat are the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the unfinished Hassan Tower, as well as the hilltop Kasbah of the Oudaias (I particularly love its Andalusian-style garden).
There’s also the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Morocco’s best archaeology institution, the Museum of History and Civilisations. Here, you’ll find ancient artefacts from the Roman cities of Volubilis and Lixus, as well as from the nearby ruins of Chellah.
It’s also worth noting that Rabat has been designated as UNESCO’s World Book Capital for 2026, meaning this September is a great time for book enthusiasts to visit. Expect book launches, readings and discussions with authors at libraries and cultural venues across the city. You can learn more about it here.
Solo Travel Safety in September
Morocco is arguably one of the safest destinations in North Africa for solo travellers, and September is no different. The relatively long daylight hours provide ample opportunity for exploration and the atmosphere in the streets is more relaxed than in July and August.
As always, it’s crucial to practice common-sense safety precautions. Steer clear of poorly lit areas after dark and dress modestly, particularly when you’re away from the beach.
What to Pack for Morocco in September
Wondering what to pack for Morocco in September? While it can still be quite hot during the daytime (particularly at the start of the month), temperatures start to cool considerably in the evenings.
Essential things to pack for an September trip to Morocco
- Loose, breathable clothing (linen and cotton)
- Long skirts or lightweight trousers
- A sweater or jumper for evenings
- Swimmers for the beach and hotel/riad pools
- Comfortable sandals and walking shoes
- A light scarf for sun and cultural coverage
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Top Things to Do in Morocco in September That are Solo-Friendly
- Learn to surf in Taghazout or Agadir
- Enjoy live music at Tanjazz
- Hit the Atlas Mountains hiking trails
- Wander the art galleries of Essaouira
- Hop between the museums of Rabat
- Explore the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen
Pros and Cons of Visiting Morocco in September
✔ Pros
- Cooling weather for medina explorations
- Music festivals held across the country
- Fewer crowds at beaches
✘ Cons
- Desert regions are still hot in early September
- Evenings aren’t as warm for alfresco dining
- Less of a festive summer atmosphere
Is September a Good Time to Visit Morocco as a Solo Traveller?
If you’re craving warm summer weather but don’t want to deal with the crowds of July and August, then I think September is a fantastic time to visit Morocco. The intense heat of the preceding months is starting to wane, opening up greater possibilities for exploring the country.
Not only is it more bearable for sightseeing in the medinas of Marrakech and Fes, but the beaches are still blissfully warm. Oh, and with the majority of holidaymakers now back at school and work, you don’t have to compete for space on the sand.
That being said, the Sahara Desert is still really hot at the start of September. Personally, I’d wait until late September or early October before heading there.
But the rest of Morocco really is your oyster, whether you want to hike in the Atlas Mountains, explore the archaeological ruins of Volubilis or discover Essaouira’s creative scene.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH MY FAVOURITE RESOURCES:
Find hotels via Booking
Book tours and attractions via Viator or GetYourGuide
Find a rental car via Discover Cars
Book flights via Kiwi or Booking
Search for buses and trains via 12Go or Omio
Get travel insurance via SafetyWing
Buy a digital eSIM with Airalo
By purchasing through my links, you’ll be supporting my website at no additional cost to you
-
Is August a Good Time to Visit Morocco? A Solo Traveller’s Guide
If you’re considering a solo trip to Morocco in August, you’ve probably got one big question on your mind: Is it too hot? The honest answer: it depends on where you go and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Personally, August isn’t one of my favourite months to be in Morocco. But that’s because…
-
Solo Travel Morocco: Dealing with Harassment and Street Attention
One of the most searched questions about solo travel in Morocco (particularly from women) isn’t about riads, souk shopping or desert tours. It’s about harassment and catcalling in the street. I’ve experienced it personally and I know how upsetting it can be. It makes you feel unsafe (even when it’s not malicious) and it stops…
-
Understanding the Moroccan Dirham: Currency, ATMs and Safety
There’s a lot to get your head around when travelling solo to a new country and currency is one of them! What is it? How much is it worth in relation to your home currency? And what is the best way to get your hands on it? As soon as you mention that the Moroccan…
-
From Souk to Home: How Ethical Souvenir Shopping Supports Moroccan Artisans
If you’re someone who loves beautiful homewares, Morocco’s souks are a dream. They’re overflowing with handmade rugs, filigreed brass lanterns and leather pouffes, not to mention colourful ceramics and gorgeous teapots….and teacups….and tea trays! For solo travellers, Morocco’s souks can also feel overwhelming. I still remember the first time I stumbled into the Marrakech souks…
-
Why Essaouira Is Morocco’s Easiest City to Travel Solo
Essaouira was the second city I visited solo on my first trip to Morocco back in 2014. But it was the first city I felt truly comfortable in. I had flown into Casablanca and got straight on a train to Marrakech, arriving amidst the 40-degree heat of an August day. It was complete overwhelm! The…
-
When to Join a Group Tour (and When to Stay Solo) in Morocco
I think there are three types of solo travellers. Those who want to travel completely independently, those who want to join a multi-day tour for the duration of their trip and those who want to combine both. I would say I’m in the latter group. Travelling independently is usually my preferred option. But I also…
I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
