Feedback for a southern Morocco trip in summer

Hi there,

I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’ll be late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was a constant 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.

For southern Morocco, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but for those who’ve been there in early July, did it cause any major issues? Otherwise, I’ll start thinking of another destination.

Here’s the rough itinerary I had in mind, renting a car for the whole trip:

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech late morning Day 2: Marrakech Day 3: Marrakech -> Aït Ben Haddou -> Ouarzazate Day 4: Ouarzazate -> Vallée des Roses -> Dadès Gorges Day 5: Dadès Gorges -> Tinghir -> Todra Gorges -> Erfoud Day 6: Erfoud -> Merzouga (Erg Chebbi desert) Day 7: Merzouga -> Ouarzazate Day 8: Ouarzazate -> seaside? Agadir or Essaouira Day 9: ?? Day 10: ?? Day 11: Return to Marrakech and flight back late afternoon

Is this schedule too rushed? Does Ouarzazate deserve an extra night? The seaside isn’t a must, as long as we can swim somewhere—pool or lake. We’re planning activities like horseback riding, camel treks, quad biking, and jeep tours.

Thanks for your input

Hi there,

In this region (Marrakech-Merzouga), at the end of June 2025, temperatures reached highs of 35-40°C and lows of 23-25°C, with humidity levels close to 0.

You can comfortably do this trip in 10 days. Ideally: 2 nights on the way out between Marrakech and Merzouga, and 2 nights on the way back. For example: Ait Ben Haddou, Skoura, Dades Valley, Tineghir. It’s better to spend a night in Skoura than in Ouarzazate. Erfoud isn’t worth staying overnight. If anything, consider 2 nights in Merzouga (one in a hostel, one in a bivouac).

Ending your trip with a day/night by the sea will be really nice at this time of year, even if it’s very crowded. Essaouira (which has more appeal than Agadir) is a 3-hour bus ride from Marrakech. You can do a round trip in a day, or spending a night there could be fun too. Be sure to book accommodation well in advance. Just so you know: the Essaouira Gnaoua Festival takes place from June 25 to 27, 2026. If that interests you, start your trip there (in which case, book your accommodation *very* far in advance...).

Murielle