Is July a Good Time to Visit Morocco? A Solo Traveller’s Guide
The big question if you’re thinking about visiting Morocco in July is: Can you handle the heat?
July is one of Morocco’s hottest months. Inland cities such as Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Ouarzazate regularly see daytime temperatures climbing above 40°C. Sightseeing in the middle of the day can be exhausting and I would recommend against heading to the Sahara Desert in July.
That being said, coastal destinations such as Essaouira, Asilah, Agadir and the surf town of Taghazout are breezy and milder. July in Morocco enjoys perfect weather for solo travellers seeking a classic beach holiday!
Whether July is a good time to visit depends less on Morocco itself and more on where you go and how resilient you are to sometimes scorchingly hot temperatures.
Let’s be clear: July is not one of my favourite months to be in Morocco. I like the warmth, but not extreme heat. City sightseeing can be unbearable in the middle of the day and the beaches are busy, with lots of tourists arriving on their annual summer break.
But I also understand that many solo travellers love the buzzing vibe that summer brings and perhaps a July trip to Morocco is perfect for you!
In this article, I’ll share the realities of travelling solo in Morocco in July, from weather and crowds to safety, costs and the best places to visit. It’s designed to help you decide if a height-of-summer 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 May and June.
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 July?
✔ Idyllic beach weather
While the temperatures in Morocco’s inland cities are scorching in July, conditions along the coast are perfect for a beach vacation. You can either head to the country’s short strip of Mediterranean coastline in the north (often dubbed the “Moroccan Riviera”) or visit one of the many beach cities and towns along the Atlantic Ocean.
✔ Festival Season
Morocco hosts festivals throughout the year, but July sees two of the most popular take place. The Asilah Arts Festival ignites the streets of this whitewashed town (just south of Tangier), while the Timitar Festival celebrates Amazigh music (both traditional and contemporary) at venues across Agadir.
✔ Long Daylight Hours
In July, Morocco enjoys long daylight hours, with sunrise at around 6:30 am and sunset at 8:30 pm. If you’re an early riser, you can enjoy a peaceful morning stroll before the heat (and crowds) set in. And if you’re a solo traveller who doesn’t want to be wandering around after dark, it’s easy to have dinner and return to your riad before it gets dark.
July Weather in Morocco
July is high summer in Morocco, which means minimal rainfall and bright sunny days. 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 very hot days, with the mercury often topping 40°C, and warm evenings.
- Coastal areas (Essaouira, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir): Cooler and breezier, with daytime temperatures typically in the high 20s/low 30s°C.
- Atlas Mountains: Warm-to-hot during the day but cooler at night, making it one of the best regions to visit in Morocco in July.
- Sahara Desert: Extremely hot in July, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Unless you love the heat, I wouldn’t recommend the Sahara for solo travellers at this time of year.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when visiting Morocco in July:
Marrakech
- Day: 35-40°C
- Night: 20-24°C
- Hot days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Marrakech in July in my detailed article here.
Fes
- Day: 33-38°C
- Night: 17-22°C
- Warm mornings, hot afternoons
You can learn more about visiting Fes in July in my detailed article here.
Chefchaouen
- Day: 28-34°C
- Night: 15–18°C
- Warm-to-hot days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Chefchaouen in my solo traveller’s guide here.
Agadir
- Day: 26–32°C
- Night: 18–21°C
- Hot days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Agadir in July in my detailed article here.
Sahara Desert
- Day: 40–48°C
- Night: 23–27°C
- Very hot days, warm 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 25-32°C and higher peaks are 10–20°C
Solo tip:
Due to the searing temperatures in the Sahara in July, I would advise against visiting at this time of the year. But I understand that for some solo travellers, it’s their only opportunity to explore Morocco’s desert region.
If you do decide to visit, plan your activities for the early morning or just before sunset when the temperatures are somewhat bearable. Drink plenty of water and always seek shade during the middle of the day.
Being out camel trekking when the sun is high in the sky isn’t good for you or the animals!
Best Places to Visit in Morocco in July
1. Asilah
July is an amazing time to visit Asilah, particularly if you’re a lover of art. This laid-back coastal town hosts its annual arts festival at the start of the month, with the whitewashed streets serving as a canvas for large-scale murals.
Art exhibitions and artist talks take place throughout the festival and it’s just a really lively time to visit.
When the heat of the medina gets too much, you can escape to one of the nearby beaches (there’s an urban beach and several prettier stretches of sand a short drive/taxi ride away).
No matter how you spend your days in Asilah, be sure to end at least one watching the sunset from the town’s Portuguese-built ramparts.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Asilah in my detailed travel guide.
2. Tangier
Due to its location at the northwestern tip of Morocco, Tangier experiences some of the most pleasant weather in the country in July. It’s definitely still summery, but the coastal setting and sea breezes help to moderate the heat.
In Tangier, you’ll find a wealth of cultural experiences – there are great museums, some fantastic street art and concept stores popping up across the city. Add to that a rich literary heritage, sun-drenched beaches and stunning views across the Strait of Gibraltar, and there’s a lot to love.
Additionally, Tangier serves as a fantastic starting point for discovering northern Morocco. The UNESCO-recognised medina of Tetouan is a little over an hour’s drive and Chefchaouen can be reached in around two hours.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Tangier in my solo traveller’s guide.
3. Atlas Mountains
Let me preface this by saying I think the Atlas Mountains are a fantastic place to be in July…but it’s not necessarily a great time for hiking. Mornings are usually mild enough for outdoor adventures. But by midday, the temperatures are (for me) too hot for being out on exposed trails.
That being said, there are lots of wonderful hotels and ecolodges in the Atlas Mountains where you can escape the heat of Marrakech and Fes. Many have swimming pools, perfect for kicking back in the afternoons after a morning of exploration.
And there’s a lot to do in the Atlas aside from hiking – visiting artisan cooperatives and Amazigh villages are just two. For solo travellers, there are heaps of guided tours to the Atlas Mountains to choose from, as well as homestay experiences that will immerse you in the local culture.
4. Agadir & Taghazout
If you’re seeking a classic beach vacation, then the area around Agadir and Taghazout is the perfect place to do it. The only caveat: Moroccan school holidays are in full swing in July and everyone is trying to escape the heat of the inland cities.
What am I trying to say? It’s busy! But provided you book your accommodation early and don’t mind sharing the sand, it’s a really fun time to be on the coast.
If you want to learn to surf in Taghazout, July is a good time to do it, as the winter swells have well and truly subsided. This means beginner-friendly conditions, although it will be busy in the water – sharing waves is all part of the deal!
If you’re more into lazing on the beach than getting active in the water, Plage d’Agadir is dotted with beach umbrellas and loungers for rent.
And for a taste of local culture, you can visit one of Agadir’s fascinating museums or shop for handicrafts at the large covered market of Souk El Had.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Agadir in my solo traveller’s guide.
5. Rabat
Another coastal city in Morocco that’s perfect to visit in July is the capital, Rabat. The temperatures here are generally milder compared to Marrakech and Fes due to its setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
In Rabat, you’ll find some fantastic museums and stunning architectural landmarks – the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the unfinished Hassan Tower are among the highlights. Additionally, there are ancient ruins, a beautifully preserved medina and a hilltop kasbah featuring an Andalusian-style garden.
Rabat has also been designated as UNESCO’s World Book Capital for 2026, which means lots of events for the literary-minded. Book launches, readings and author discussions will be held at libraries and cultural institutions across the city. You can learn more here.
6. Chefchaouen
Situated in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen experiences milder weather compared to nearby Fes, making July an ideal month for a visit. You can look forward to sunny days perfect for exploring the medina and hiking to the Spanish Mosque, along with warm evenings for alfresco dining in Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
If temperatures rise into the 30s, you can unwind by the cool waters of Ras el-Maa or take a trip to the Cascades d’Akchour for a refreshing swim.
If your budget allows, consider reserving a hotel or riad in Chefchaouen with a swimming pool, providing you with a place to cool off and relax during the hottest part of the day.
7. Essaouira
There’s no denying it: July in Essaouira is busy, with lots of travellers escaping the heat of Marrakech to be near the coast.
But it’s also one of the best places to be in Morocco if you want a combination of beachside relaxation and cultural sightseeing. The creative scene in Essaouira is particularly good!
Temperatures in Essaouira in July can still get hot. So my suggestion is to head out sightseeing early in the morning and spend your afternoons relaxing back at your hotel/riad (ideally beside a pool).
Alternatively, you can settle in with a book or your laptop at one of the medina’s many eclectic cafes. Then, once things cool down in the early evening, head out again to enjoy one of Essaouira’s balmy summer nights.
It’s also worth noting that conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing in Essaouira are particularly good in July when the Alizé winds pick up.
Discover some of the best things to do in Essaouira for solo travellers here.
Solo Travel Safety in July
Morocco is one of the safest destinations in North Africa for solo travellers, and July is no different.
The extended daylight hours make it easier to get around and the tourist facilities are fully functional. Assistance is never far away if needed.
As always, it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Steer clear of walking in poorly lit areas at night and dress modestly, particularly in urban and rural settings.
If you’re planning to hike in Morocco during July, make sure to drink plenty of water and find shade if the temperatures become uncomfortably high.
What to Pack for Morocco in July
Wondering what to pack for Morocco in July? While it will be hot during the daytime, you may still encounter mild nights, particularly at higher elevations.
Essential things to pack for a July trip to Morocco
- Loose, breathable clothing (linen and cotton)
- Long skirts or lightweight trousers
- 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 July That are Solo-Friendly
- Learn to surf in Taghazout or Agadir
- Discover the galleries and street art of Asilah
- Escape the heat in the Atlas Mountains
- Hop between the museums of Rabat
- Wander the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen
Pros and Cons of Visiting Morocco in July
✔ Pros
- Perfect beach holiday conditions
- Music festivals held across the country
- Fewer crowds in inland cities (everyone escapes to the coast)
✘ Cons
- Desert regions are scorchingly hot
- Midday temps in medinas can be unbearable
- Peak season along the coast
Is July a Good Time to Visit Morocco as a Solo Traveller?
Look, July in Morocco is not ideal if you want to cover the entire country. But it’s also by no means not doable. Provided you travel thoughtfully and plan a seasonally suitable itinerary, you can still have an incredible time.
July is not the month for ticking the Sahara Desert off your bucket list and both Marrakech and Fes can be sweltering. But head to the coast and you can enjoy a breezy beachside vacation Moroccan-style, with a good dose of cultural sightseeing thrown in.
If you focus your July itinerary in Morocco on coastal and mountain destinations, you’ll escape the worst of the heat.
And if you do want to explore Marrakech and Fes, consider upgrading your hotel or riad to one with a swimming pool. After a morning spent sightseeing amidst the heat, trust me when I say it will be worth the splurge.
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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.
