Best Places to Visit in Morocco in October 2026 – Ultimate Autumn Guide
October is widely regarded as one of the very best months to explore Morocco. Mild temperatures (20–28°C), beautiful golden harvest light, significantly fewer crowds than summer, and seasonal festivals make it the perfect time to discover the country’s most iconic and hidden destinations.
Why October Is One of the Very Best Months for Morocco Travel
October offers an ideal balance of weather, atmosphere and value. Daytime highs range from 22°C in the north to 28–30°C in the south, evenings cool to 12–18°C, and rainfall remains very low except in the far north. The light turns warm and golden — perfect for photography in medinas, dunes and mountains. Tourist numbers drop sharply after summer, meaning shorter queues, more relaxed sightseeing, and easier bookings at riads, desert camps and guided tours. Harvest season brings fresh dates, pomegranates, oranges and argan to markets, while local festivals (date celebrations in Erfoud, apple picking in the Atlas) add authentic cultural flavor. Prices are often 20–40% lower than spring peak season. For first-timers or repeat visitors, October combines comfort, beauty and authenticity like few other months. Lonely Planet agrees — October consistently ranks among the top times to visit Morocco.
The 8 Very Best Places to Visit in Morocco in October 2026
These destinations truly shine in October thanks to pleasant weather, golden light and seasonal details.
1. Marrakech – The Red City in Perfect October Light
Marrakech is one of the very best places to visit in Morocco in October. Daytime temperatures around 28°C are comfortable for exploring souks, palaces and gardens, while evenings cool down beautifully for rooftop dinners overlooking Jemaa el-Fna square. The golden hour light turns every scene cinematic — ideal for photographing the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs and Jardin Majorelle. Fewer tour groups mean more relaxed haggling and authentic moments in the spice-scented alleys. Tripadvisor travelers consistently rate October as one of the best months here.
2. Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi Dunes near Merzouga)
The Sahara ranks among the absolute best places to visit in Morocco in October. Daytime highs of ~28°C are ideal for camel treks and dune climbing, while nights (12–15°C) are crisp and perfect for stargazing from Berber camps. October skies are exceptionally clear — sunsets and Milky Way views are breathtaking. Luxury camps offer glamping with fresh bread, mint tea and tagine under the stars. Book your desert adventure via trusted operators like Sahara Serenity Morocco tours.
3. Chefchaouen – Blue City Serenity
Chefchaouen is one of the most photogenic best places to visit in Morocco in October. Mild 22–25°C weather makes wandering the blue streets delightful, with fewer tourists creating a peaceful atmosphere. Rif Mountain hikes to Akchour waterfalls are comfortable, and soft autumn light enhances every shade of blue. Official Morocco Tourism highlights Chefchaouen as a must-see in autumn.
4. High Atlas Mountains – Hiking & Berber Culture
The Atlas Mountains are among the best places to visit in Morocco in October. Crisp 20–25°C days, golden fall foliage, flowing waterfalls and welcoming Berber villages make hiking around Imlil, Toubkal or Ourika Valley spectacular. Stay in mountain gîtes for tagine and mint tea with locals. World Travel Guide recommends the Atlas in autumn for perfect trekking weather.
5. Essaouira – Coastal Relaxation
Essaouira is a refreshing choice among the best places to visit in Morocco in October. Mild 23–27°C weather and steady winds are perfect for beach walks, kitesurfing, fresh seafood and exploring the fortified medina. October sunsets over the Atlantic are unforgettable. Lonely Planet calls Essaouira one of Morocco’s most relaxed coastal escapes in autumn.
6. Fez – Medieval Medina Exploration
Fez ranks among the best places to visit in Morocco in October thanks to cooler 24–26°C temperatures that make exploring the ancient medina, tanneries and madrasas much more enjoyable. October light brings out the best of the historic architecture.
Sample 10-Day Itinerary – Best Places to Visit in Morocco in October
- Days 1–3: Marrakech – souks, palaces, Jemaa el-Fna
- Days 4–6: Sahara Desert – Merzouga dunes, camel trek, camp
- Day 7: Atlas Mountains – hike, Berber villages
- Days 8–9: Fez medina or Chefchaouen blue streets
- Day 10: Essaouira coast relaxation or departure
For guided tours covering many of the best places to visit in Morocco in October, explore Sahara Serenity Morocco tours.
Practical Tips for the Best Places to Visit in Morocco in October
- Layers for cool evenings, sturdy shoes, sun protection
- Book Sahara camps and popular riads early
- Drink bottled water, respect local customs
- Trains & buses for cities; 4×4 for desert/Atlas
- Choose eco-friendly operators and support locals
Final Thoughts
October offers some of the very best places to visit in Morocco in perfect conditions — mild weather, golden light, seasonal harvests, fewer crowds and authentic experiences. From Marrakech’s vibrant squares to Sahara sunsets, Chefchaouen blues, Atlas trails and Essaouira breezes, this month captures Morocco at its most balanced and beautiful. Plan your journey now — book trusted tours at Sahara Serenity Morocco tours for a seamless adventure. Safe travels!
