Morocco in May: Weather, Where to Go and What to Do (2026)
May is one of Morocco's finest late springs: warm without being overwhelming, nature still green, and the famous Rose Festival in the Dadès Valley. It's also the last good month for the desert before the summer heat. Peak tourist season: book ahead.
In May, Morocco is warm and sunny: 26-31 °C in Marrakech, 22-25 °C on the coast (Agadir, Essaouira), 30-35 °C in the desert by day with mild nights. It's the last ideal month for the Sahara before summer, and the time of the Rose Festival (Kelaât M'Gouna). Pleasant coast and warming water. High footfall and prices.
Weather in Morocco in May, region by region
| Region | Day | Night | In short |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marrakech / interior | 26-31 °C | 13-17 °C | Warm, sunny |
| Coast (Agadir, Essaouira) | 22-25 °C | 15-18 °C | Mild, sometimes windy |
| Desert (Merzouga, Zagora) | 30-35 °C | 14-19 °C | Warm by day, mild at night |
| Atlas (altitude) | 16-22 °C | 5-10 °C | Pleasant, ideal hiking |
| Fes / north | 24-29 °C | 12-16 °C | Warm and sunny |
May is warm, dry and sunny across almost the whole country.
Where to go in Morocco in May?
The desert (Merzouga, Zagora)
Last good month before summer: warm but still bearable days, mild starry nights. Do it now, June will be harsher.
Desert tours from Marrakech· GetYourGuide
The Valley of the Roses (Dadès)
The Rose Festival in Kelaât M'Gouna (usually early/mid-May) celebrates the harvest of perfume roses. Lush oases, rose water, festive atmosphere.
The Atlas and hiking
Ideal trekking conditions: lush valleys, clear passes, perfect temperatures at altitude (Toubkal accessible).
The Atlantic coast
Essaouira, Agadir and Taghazout: mild weather, warming water, perfect for surfing and the first swims.
Crowds and prices in May
What to pack in May?
- Light clothing for the day
- Light layers for evenings (mild nights, cool in the desert)
- A windbreaker for the coast and Atlas
- A swimsuit (swimming possible, warming water)
- Strong sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses
See: what to pack for Morocco.
Events and highlights in May
- Rose Festival in Kelaât M'Gouna (Dadès Valley)
- Rose harvest and blooming oases
- Peak hiking season in the Atlas
Morocco eSIM to stay connected· Airalo eSIM
FAQ — Morocco in May
Is it hot in Morocco in May?
Is May a good month for the Moroccan desert?
What is the Rose Festival in Morocco?
Can you swim in Morocco in May?
What should I pack for Morocco in May?
In summary
May is an ideal late spring: warm but bearable, nature still green, the Rose Festival and the last comfortable window for the desert. Combine it with the Atlas (trekking) and the coast. Just remember to book early, as it's high season.
My 3 key tips:
- Do the desert in May, before the summer heat.
- Don't miss the Rose Festival (Dadès Valley).
- Book ahead: May is in high demand.
