Morocco Weather in May: Why It Is the Best Month to Visit (2026 Guide)
By Red City Craft | Travel Planning
If we had to pick one month to visit Morocco and guarantee (almost) perfect weather, it would be May.
April showers are gone. The intense heat of July and August hasn't arrived yet. The country is still green from the spring rains, and the flowers are in full bloom. However, May is a transition month. Depending on where you go—the coast, the mountains, or the desert—the experience changes drastically.
Here is exactly what to expect, what to pack, and how to book the best experiences before the summer rush begins.
☀️ The May Weather Breakdown
In general, expect Sunny Days and Mild Nights. It is "T-Shirt weather" during the day, but you might need a light layer after sunset.
| Region | Avg. High | Avg. Low | The Vibe |
| Marrakech | 29°C (84°F) | 15°C (59°F) | Perfect pool weather. Hot mid-day sun. |
| Fes | 25°C (77°F) | 12°C (54°F) | Pleasant for walking the Medina. |
| The Atlas | 22°C (71°F) | 10°C (50°F) | Fresh, crisp, and green. |
| The Sahara | 32°C (90°F) | 18°C (64°F) | Warning: Getting hot. |
🎒 What to Wear: The "Gandoura" Season
May is tricky. Jeans are starting to feel too heavy, but shorts are often culturally inappropriate in the Medinas. The Solution: Breathable, loose fabrics.
1. For Him: The Cotton Gandoura This is the month for the Sousdi (Cotton) Gandoura. It provides airflow like a pair of shorts, but covers your shoulders and knees for respect.
2. For Her: The Linen Blend Pack flowy maxi dresses and a Velvet Jacket for the evenings. Since May nights can still drop to 15°C, a stylish blazer is the perfect dinner companion.
🐪 Top 3 Things to Do in May (Before It’s Too Hot)
1. The "Last Call" for the Sahara Desert
Affiliate: GetYourGuide
Listen carefully: Do not visit the Sahara (Merzouga) in June, July, or August unless you love 45°C (113°F) heat. May is your last chance. The days are warm, but the sand isn't burning yet, and sleeping under the stars is comfortable.
Our Pick: If you are in Marrakech, take the 3-day tour that stops at Ait Ben Haddou (Game of Thrones location) on the way.
🚐 Check Availability: 3-Day Desert Safari from Marrakech (via GetYourGuide)
2. The Valley of Roses Festival
Affiliate: TripAdvisor
Every May (usually the second weekend), the town of Kelaat M'Gouna hosts the world-famous Rose Festival. Millions of Damascus roses are harvested to make rose water. The air literally smells like perfume. It is a bucket-list event, but hotels sell out months in advance.
Planning Tip: Check reviews for local guesthouses in the Dades Valley nearby.
🌹 See Top Rated Guesthouses near Valley of Roses (via TripAdvisor)
3. Escape to the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Affiliate: GetYourGuide
Marrakech can get to 29°C+ in May. If the city feels too stuffy, do what the locals do: Go to the waterfalls. Ouzoud Falls is cooler, misty, and full of Barbary Macaque monkeys. It’s the perfect day trip.
Top Rated Tour: Book a day trip that includes a boat ride under the falls.
🌊 Book Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip (from $23) (via GetYourGuide)
🏨 Where to Stay: It’s "Riad with a Pool" Season
Affiliate: Booking.com / TripAdvisor
In January, you want a Riad with a fireplace. In May, a pool is non-negotiable. After walking the Souks for 4 hours, dipping your feet in a cool plunge pool is the ultimate luxury.
Our Recommendations:
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Luxury: Riad Yasmine (The most famous pool on Instagram).
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Mid-Range: Riad BE Marrakech (Incredible tile work).
Don't just guess. Compare prices and see traveler photos to make sure the pool is actually big enough to swim in!
🏊 Compare Prices for Marrakech Riads with Pools (via TripAdvisor)
⚠️ Is May Crowded?
Yes. May is part of the "High Season." Because the weather is so perfect, everyone wants to be here.
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The Risk: Tours and popular Riads book out 2-3 weeks in advance.
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The Fix: Do not wait until you arrive to book your Desert Camp or your Garden Majorelle tickets.
Final Verdict: Pack your Gandoura, book your Desert Tour early, and enjoy the best weather Morocco has to offer.
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