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Best Time to Visit Merzouga

Merzouga is open all year, but the experience changes a lot with the seasons – and they run the opposite way to New Zealand. Here is our local month-by-month weather guide, the best periods for camel rides and adventure activities, and what to pack.

Mouhou Desert Camp · October 2026

When is the best time to go?

The best months to visit Merzouga are March, April, May, October and November. Days are warm and sunny (around 20–30 °C), nights are pleasant, and conditions are ideal for camel rides, quads, buggies and sleeping in the dunes.

Remember that the northern-hemisphere seasons are reversed: a Kiwi winter break in June or July lands in the Saharan summer, which is very hot. Winter in Morocco (December to February) brings clear skies and fewer visitors – bring warm clothes for the nights. Summer is still possible if you rest in the afternoon and choose a tent with air-conditioning.

Spring: perfect weather, some windy days
Autumn: warm days, calm and clear
Winter: sunny days, cold nights, quiet
Summer: very hot – keep to early mornings and evenings

What to expect

Spring (Mar–May) – 20–32 °C by day. Green oases, desert lakes after rain, occasional sandy winds.
Summer (Jun–Aug) – 38–45 °C by day. Hot but dry; warm nights under the stars.
Autumn (Sep–Nov) – 25–35 °C in September, cooling to 20 °C in November. Very stable weather.
Winter (Dec–Feb) – 15–22 °C by day, 0–6 °C at night. Clear skies, fewer tourists.
Wind & sand – Sandy winds are more common in spring; they usually last only a few hours.
Rain – Rare – a few days a year. After rain the seasonal lakes fill and attract birds.

Merzouga weather table

Average values – every year is a little different.

Month	Day	Night	Our tip
January	17 °C	3 °C	Clear and quiet; bring a warm jacket
February	20 °C	5 °C	Sunny days, cold nights
March	24 °C	9 °C	Great month, some windy days
April	28 °C	13 °C	Excellent for all activities
May	32 °C	17 °C	Warm; ideal sunsets
June	38 °C	22 °C	Hot; rest at midday
July	43 °C	26 °C	Very hot; A/C tent recommended
August	41 °C	25 °C	Very hot; early starts
September	36 °C	20 °C	Warm and calm
October	29 °C	14 °C	One of the best months
November	22 °C	8 °C	Pleasant days, cool nights
December	18 °C	4 °C	Festive season, cold nights

Busy periods and special dates

Merzouga is busiest around Easter, in October and November and between Christmas and New Year. Book early for these dates, especially for luxury and deluxe tents.

During Ramadan (the dates change every year) life in the villages is quieter during the day, but the camps work normally and guests eat as usual. It is a special time to experience the evening breaking of the fast with local families.

What to pack for the desert

Sunglasses, sun cream and a hat or scarf – all year
Light, long-sleeved clothes for the day
A warm jacket or fleece for the evening (October to April)
Comfortable shoes or sandals for the sand
A small backpack for the camel ride
A torch or phone light, and a power bank

Tips from Merzouga locals

Stay at least one night in the dunes – day trips miss the sunset and stars
Two nights let you add a 4×4 trip or quads without rushing
In summer, ride camels at sunset and sunrise only
In winter, ask for extra blankets – they are always available
Full moon nights are bright; new moon nights are best for stars
Check the weather a few days before – we are happy to advise

Frequently asked questions

What is the hottest month in Merzouga?

July is usually the hottest month, with daytime temperatures above 40 °C. August is similar.

Is it cold in the Sahara at night?

Yes. From November to March nights can fall to 0–6 °C, colder than many people expect. Our tents have thick blankets and extras are always available.

When is sandstorm season?

Sandy winds are most common in March and April. They usually last a few hours, and the camp has protected tents.

Can I visit Merzouga in summer?

Yes. Plan activities early in the morning and at sunset, rest in the afternoon and choose a deluxe tent with air-conditioning.

When is the best time to see the stars?

Any clear night is spectacular, but the darkest skies are around the new moon, especially in autumn and winter.

When should I come during New Zealand school holidays?

The October holidays and the summer break from mid-December are good times for the desert. The July holidays fall in the Saharan summer, so book a deluxe tent with A/C if you travel then.

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