Morocco Holidays in August

Inland Morocco is at its most intense during August, so knowing which places run hottest helps you choose a base that suits you.

• Marrakech: Marrakech sits inland at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, and in August its daytime temperatures are often well above what most UK visitors expect. The walled medina and its narrow lanes hold heat through the afternoon, so sightseeing is best done in the early morning or after sunset. We recommend riads with shaded courtyards or a rooftop pool, which give you a cooler retreat between outings. The city is perfect for culture seekers, but it is not the right choice for anyone who struggles with intense heat. It is exactly the brief our Morocco holidays deals are built around.
• Fes: Fes is another inland imperial city and it tends to feel hot and close during August, particularly within the dense walls of the old medina. The narrow alleys trap warmth, though the shade of the lanes can make walking more comfortable than in open squares. The old quarter is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, so you will be on foot for much of the day. It suits history lovers who are willing to plan their route around the hottest hours and rest in the afternoon.
• Meknes: Meknes is a quieter inland city that runs just as hot during the summer months as its neighbouring imperial rival, yet it attracts noticeably fewer visitors than the larger centres. Its historic gates and gardens provide shade and a slower rhythm for travellers who prefer calm to crowds. Day trips to the Roman ruins nearby are best started early, before the sun gains real strength over the open site. It suits visitors seeking a genuine Moroccan city feel without the bustle of the bigger imperial destinations.
• Ouarzazate: Ouarzazate lies on the edge of the Sahara and is among the hottest places in the country during August, with dry air and little relief from the sun. The surrounding landscapes are dramatic, and nearby clay villages are best visited in the morning before the heat peaks. Evenings can be pleasantly cool after the sun goes down. It suits adventurous travellers who are comfortable with extreme dryness and need to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Merzouga: Merzouga sits beside the Erg Chebbi dunes in eastern Morocco, where August daytime heat is intense and the sand reflects it back. The desert camps can be a memorable experience, especially when the temperature drops after dark and the sky fills with stars. Camel treks are usually scheduled for the cooler hours of early morning or evening. It is the right choice for adventure travellers who want the Sahara, but it is not suited to families or anyone who wants a beach-style break in the heat.