If you’ve discovered this blog, it’s safe to assume you’re thinking about riding in Morocco’s Sahara Desert. Great choice! There’s nowhere else like it — the open dunes, the rocky, dry riverbeds, the blanketing silence, the sheer beauty and scale of the landscape. But before you book your place on one of our Morocco motorbike tours, one question matters more than most: when’s the best time to visit the Sahara Desert?
At Motor Adventures, we run our Morocco off-road tours from September to May. That’s no accident. The Sahara doesn’t play nice in summer, and we’ve built our itineraries around the seasons that offer the best riding, scenery, and comfort. Whether you’re heading out on a motorbike or buggy, timing your trip right will make all the difference.
Here’s what you need to know about the Morocco Sahara Desert weather and the best time for an unforgettable desert tour. If you think of any questions while reading, please just contact us for the answers you need.
Why Morocco Desert Tours in Summer are Off the Table (June to August)
Let’s start with the months you can rule out. June, July, and August are not an option for Morocco desert tours. Daytime temperatures in the Sahara regularly soar above 45°C, and there’s no escape from the heat. It makes riding dangerous, draining, and frankly, miserable.
Even desert locals plan around this intense heat. That’s why our Morocco tours simply don’t run in summer. If you’re planning a trip, always aim for early autumn through to late spring. That’s when the desert opens up for proper adventure.
Autumn Desert Tours in Morocco (September to November)
Autumn marks the return of rideable desert conditions. September can still be warm, but it’s a welcome change from the peak heat of summer. Days are long, the air is dry, and the sand is firm under tyre. It’s a great time for open riding and big mileage.
October and November are often seen as ideal by experienced riders. The weather has settled, temperatures drop into the low-to-mid 20s (°C), and the mix of warm days and cool nights feels ideal.
Our signature tour, the Sahara Experience in Morocco, runs in October, as well as April and May. However, the October trip is special as children are welcome to join in the fun. We make all the necessary arrangements to ensure everyone has a smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable adventure.
Winter Morocco Motorbike Desert Tours (December to February)
Winter in the Sahara is cold at night, but excellent for riding during the day. If you’re not a fan of heat, December to February could be your best pick. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 15 and 22°C, and while the mornings can start off chilly, things warm up fast once you’re moving.
It’s dry, the sand is consistent, and the winter light gives the desert an edge that’s perfect for photos and unforgettable sunsets. The High Atlas Mountains and Jbel Saghro can get snow, especially in January, which adds a dramatic contrast if your tour route takes you through both desert and high passes.
These months are perfect for riders who want solid terrain, crisp air, fewer people on the trails, and don’t mind layering up after dark. Sound tempting? Both our High Peaks and Desert Morocco Motorcycle Tour (5 days riding) and Mini Mountain and Sahara Desert Tour in Morocco (4 days riding) start in December. Check out both itineraries to see if either is right for you!
Spring Motorbike Tours in Morocco’s Sahara (March to May)
Spring is a favourite among both first-time and returning riders. In March, the days start to stretch again and temperatures rise to a comfortable 22 to 28°C. You’ll start to see signs of life returning to the desert — a few wildflowers, a burst of green in the valleys, and the occasional nomadic camp on the move.
April is a prime time for long rides, mixed-terrain challenges, and soaking up the best of the Sahara and surrounding ranges. By May, it starts to get hot again, especially in the deeper southern dunes around Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi region. If you want to see the Sahara at its most vibrant without overheating, spring is your window.
We run numerous tours during the spring season to take advantage of these optimal riding conditions, including our Morocco Desert Quest (6 days riding).
Factors to Help You Decide When to Join a Morocco Motorbike Desert Tour
So, when’s the best time to visit Morocco’s Sahara Desert? That’s for you to decide! While the Morocco Sahara tour season runs from September to May, there are a few things to consider when picking your specific month:
- Heat vs. Cool: Prefer Dry Heat? Aim for autumn or late spring. Cooler air? Go for mid-winter.
- Daylight hours: Autumn and spring offer more daylight, which means longer rides.
- Terrain conditions: The sand is firmer in the cooler months and becomes looser as the weather warms up.
- Cultural interest: Winter is when many nomadic communities move through the region, which is great for cultural encounters.
- Your availability: If you’re locked into holidays or school breaks, we can help you pick a tour that fits.
Every Motor Adventures tour is guided, supported by backup vehicles, and carefully tailored to match the season’s conditions. So whatever month you ride, we’ll make sure it delivers. Check out our tour calendar to get a better overview of when our experiences are available.
Book Your Morocco Motorcycle Desert Tour with Us!
Now you know more about the best time to visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco, let’s start planning your experience! Browse our range of Morocco motorbike tours and find the perfect excursion for you.
The Motor Adventures team is here to help however we can, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any pre-booking questions.
And for more pre-trip reading, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Off-Road Motorbike & Buggy Tours in Morocco.
