Is October a Good Time to Visit Morocco? A Solo Traveller’s Guide
If you’re planning a solo trip to Morocco, October is considered by many people to be one of the best months to go. And I have to agree!
The intense summer heat has eased and the Sahara once again becomes accessible. Oh, and the Atlantic waters are still warm enough to swim if you’re craving a bit of ocean therapy.
Honestly, there aren’t many places in Morocco you shouldn’t go in October!
While the country is a little quieter in terms of tourist numbers (compared to July and August at least), word is out that autumn is the perfect time to visit North Africa. The mild temperatures and reduced crowds are attracting more and more people, to the point where it’s not really a shoulder season anymore.
Personally, I still think October is a great time go, particularly for solo travellers! But is it right for you?
In this article, I’ll share what you can expect if you’re travelling solo to Morocco in October, from weather and crowds to safety and the best places to visit. It’s designed to help you decide if an 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 August and September.
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 October?
✔ Ideal Weather Across the Country
October brings some of the most comfortable temperatures across the country, whether you’re heading to the coastline, the desert or the Atlas Mountains. In Marrakech and Fes, the days are warm but no longer intensely hot, while the Sahara is once again pleasant for camel trekking.
Trekking is also at its best in the Atlas Mountains, with generally clear skies and mild temps for exploring the trails. Along the coast, cities like Essaouira and Agadir still enjoy sunny days and the water is invitingly swimmable.
✔ Lively Atmosphere Without Peak Crowds
Technically, October sits in Morocco’s shoulder season and is a month that has traditionally not been a popular time to visit. But personally, I think that is changing, with many people realising that it is such a great time to be in the country.
While the medinas are busy, they’re still manageable and the crowds won’t be heaving at major tourist sights. Accommodation availability also tends to be slightly better, compared to July and August at least.
✔ Festivals, Festivals, Festivals
I don’t know what it is about October, but Moroccans love a festival at this time of year! Essaouira usually hosts its MOGA Electronic Music Festival near the start of the month, while the Oudayas Jazz Festival takes place in the storied streets of Rabat’s kasbah.
In terms of cultural festivities, the desert town of M’Hamid El Ghizlane usually hosts the Taragalte Festival in October, celebrating the nomadic culture of the region. Meanwhile, Erfoud honours its most important crop, the date palm, with a three-day extravaganza.
October Weather in Morocco
October in Morocco means warm temperatures across the country and minimal rainfall (although you might get a few rainy days in the north). 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 days and mild evenings
- Coastal areas (Essaouira, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir): Cooler and breezier, with daytime temperatures typically in the high 20s°C.
- Atlas Mountains: Warm during the day but mild-to-cool at night.
- Sahara Desert: Warm-to-hot during the day and chilly at night.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when visiting Morocco in September:
Marrakech
- Day: 24-30°C
- Night: 16-19°C
- Warm days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Marrakech in October in my detailed article here.
Fes
- Day: 23-29°C
- Night: 12-16°C
- Warm days, mild-to-cool nights
You can learn more about visiting Fes in October in my detailed article here.
Chefchaouen
- Day: 22-26°C
- Night: 9–13°C
- Mild days, cool nights
You can learn more about visiting Chefchaouen in my solo traveller’s guide here.
Agadir
- Day: 26–30°C
- Night: 14–18°C
- Warm days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Agadir in October in my detailed article here.
Sahara Desert
- Day: 25–30°C
- Night: 10–15°C
- Warm days, cool 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.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco in October
1. Marrakech
While Marrakech can be really hot over the summer months (and even into September), the temperatures in October are ideal for exploration. The city also has a lively feel, without being overwhelmingly crowded (which it can be at some times of the year).
October is perfect for exploring the souks without dealing with extreme heat and wandering through Marrakech’s beautifully restored palaces and madrasas. It’s still warm enough to take a dip in the courtyard pool at your riad (check out some of the city’s best here) and dine alfresco at rooftop restaurants.
Marrakech is also a great place to visit in October for its day trip opportunities. You can travel into the Atlas Mountains for a day of hiking and village visits or venture to Agafay to spend a night at one of its luxurious desert camps.
You can learn more about visiting Marrakech in my solo traveller’s guide here.
2. Sahara Desert
If a night in the Sahara Desert is your priority (over Agafay), October is a great time to experience it.
While the daytime temps are incredibly hot in the desert over the summer months, by October, things are much more comfortable. Plus, the freezing nighttime temperatures that characterise the winter are yet to arrive.
In October, you have relatively long daylight hours for desert activities (quad biking, camel riding and sandboarding) and the nights are generally clear for stargazing.
Whether you choose the dunes near Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) or the more remote Erg Chigaga (near M’Hamid), October’s desert conditions are perfect!
One of the easiest ways to visit the Sahara Desert as a solo traveler is on a guided tour (look for “small-group” options when searching online). They’re usually affordable and typically include stops at other destinations along the route, like the historic ksar of Ait Benhaddou.
Discover everything you need to know about travelling solo to the Sahara in my detailed guide here.
3. Dades and Todra
If you don’t have time to go all the way to the Sahara, I recommend going at least as far as Dades and Todra. These two spectacular gorges lie around five hours drive from Marrakech and make for a wonderful overnight adventure, particularly in October.
The autumn temperatures are perfect for relaxed hikes amidst the gorges’ date palm oases and riverside fields, as well as scenic drives to explore the towering rock formations. And in the evening, you can bunk down in one of the amazing kasbah hotels that dot both valleys – check out some of my favourites here.
If time allows, consider spending another night at one of the ecolodges in Skoura – an oasis town that’s renowned for its palmeraie. One of my favourite places to stay in Skoura is L’Ma Lodge. It’s a bit of a splurge but definitely worth it!
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Dades, Todra and Skoura in my detailed travel guide.
4. Atlas Mountains
Even up until mid-September, the hiking trails in the Atlas Mountains can be uncomfortably hot during the middle of the day.
By October, the temperatures are far more pleasant, whether you’re heading to Ouirgane for a day hike or doing the overnight summit of Mount Toubkal.
If you’re not into hiking, there are plenty of other opportunities to explore the Atlas Mountains. You can embark on a day trip to Ourika Valley, renowned for its riverside restaurants, or spend a few nights soaking up the incredible views from one of the region’s wonderful hotels.
For those travelling solo, there are lots of guided tours available that enable you to discover the region within a small group setting. Additionally, homestays can be arranged, allowing you to engage closely with local communities in the Atlas Mountains.
Discover some of my favourite adventures in the Atlas Mountains here.
5. Chefchaouen
Nestled in the stunning Rif Mountains in Morocco’s north, Chefchaouen is an amazing place to visit in autumn.
While the days are still warm (and generally sunny), the nights are cool enough that riad fireplaces are starting to get lit. Reading next to a fireplace is definitely one of my favourite things to do on a chilly evening!
By day, you can wander the medina and hike up to the Spanish Mosque for incredible views across Chefchaouen. If you’re feeling really active, you can explore further afield on one of the Rif Mountains’ spectacular hiking trails.
For a shorter hike, consider the 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.
6. Essaouira
With its coastal setting and whitewashed medina, Essaouira really does shine in the summer months. But it can be really windy, and for me, being at the beach with sand blasting my face isn’t my favourite thing to do.
October usually experiences lighter winds, which is why I love visiting Essaouira at this time of the year. The medina’s sun-drenched streets still have that summery vibe and it’s warm enough in the evenings for alfresco dining at the city’s seafood restaurants.
The Atlantic waters haven’t yet taken on their winter chill, so an afternoon dip is definitely on the cards! And if you want to learn to surf, the gentler winds make this an ideal time to do it.
October is also a great time for creatives to visit Essaouira. Aside from the city’s abundant art galleries, Essaouira usually hosts two big music festivals in October – MOGA (an electronic music festival) and the Atlantic Andalusia Festival.
For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in Essaouira for solo travellers.
7. Fes
As with Marrakech, Fes can feel incredibly hot during the summer months, largely due to its inland setting. I find sightseeing here far more comfortable in autumn, once the temperatures have dropped a little.
In my opinion, October is ideal for exploring Fes’ historic madrasas and outstanding museums. Don’t miss Dar Batha or the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts.
The temperatures are also far more comfortable for shopping in the souks, visiting the tanneries and popping your head into artisan workshops.
Additionally, Fes makes a great base for visiting the ancient ruins of Volubilis, which can be unbearably hot in the summer due to their exposed setting. But by October, the mild temperatures are ideal for wandering what is one of Morocco’s best archaeological sites.
Small-group guided tours to Volubilis usually include a stop in the former imperial city of Meknes and in the holy town of Moulay Idriss. It’s a great day out for history buffs!
Solo Travel Safety in October
Generally speaking, Morocco is a safe country to visit. However, some solo travellers (particularly women) do report unwanted attention in particular destinations (Marrakech is high up on that list).
For me, the reduced heat in October makes this much easier to handle – I’m not at my best when I’m all hot and bothered!
Aside from less heat fatigue, another advantage of visiting Morocco in October is that the crowds aren’t as extreme as in the peak summer months. This has knock-on benefits for feelings of safety in my opinion.
As always, it’s important to follow basic safety measures, no matter what time of the year you visit Morocco. Avoid poorly lit areas after dark and dress modestly, especially when you’re way from the beach.
What to Pack for Morocco in October
Wondering what to pack for Morocco in October? While it can still be quite warm during the daytime, temperatures start to cool off 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 light jacket or sweater for evenings
- Swimmers for the beach and hotel/riad pools
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Top Things to Do in Morocco in October That are Solo-Friendly
- Experience the live music festivals of Essaouira
- Hit the Atlas Mountains hiking trails
- Spend a night in the Sahara Desert or Agafay
- Hop between the museums of Rabat
- Explore the palaces and souks of Marrakech
- Wander the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen
Pros and Cons of Visiting Morocco in October
✔ Pros
- Ideal weather for medina explorations
- Music festivals held across the country
- Fewer crowds at major tourist sights
✘ Cons
- Daylight hours are reducing
- Not peak beach weather
- Less of a festive summer atmosphere
Is October a Good Time to Visit Morocco as a Solo Traveller?
For me, October is one of the best months to visit Morocco. The weather is comfortable around the country, the desert conditions are ideal and the crowds are more manageable than at the height of summer.
While the medinas are far from empty (an increasing number of travellers are realising October is a great time to visit), it’s not overwhelmingly busy for solo travellers.
If you’re planning a classic Morocco itinerary, including Marrakech, Fes and the Sahara, October is the perfect time to do it. Accommodation availability is a little more flexible and you won’t be paying peak, PEAK season rates.
Honestly, there isn’t really anywhere in Morocco I wouldn’t recommend visiting in October – the country is your oyster!
Yes, you might experience a bit of rainfall in the north and chilly nighttime temps. But on the flipside, you might get to relax beside a fireplace in the evenings (many Moroccan riads and hotels have open fires).
If you want warmth without intensity, energy without chaos and adventure without exhaustion – October is an excellent choice.
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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.
