North Africa Cruise: When to Go?

When Is the Best Time to Take a Cruise Across North Africa?

When planning your Mediterranean cruise along the North African coast, keep in mind changeable weather patterns, which vary significantly from the west to the east. 
In general, the best time to take a cruise in the region is during the spring or fall, when temperatures are cooler and there are fewer crowds.
 
The arid desert climate of the region means the weather is very hot with little rain. While summer (June to August) is ideal for hitting the beaches, the deserts are scorching hot and uncomfortable. 

On the other hand, winter (December to February) can be harsh, chilly, and wet. During the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), the weather is more moderate and welcoming for North Africa cruises and adventures.

Morocco

For many travelers, this is the region’s ideal destination as the weather is pleasant almost year-round. However, the months of March to May and September to November are the best time to visit Morocco. During these shoulder seasons, the country offers moderate weather and fewer tourists than summer or winter. It’s also a great time to hike the Atlas Mountains.
 
Although summer temperatures can soar past 104°F (40°C), there are still plenty of travelers from the United States and other Western countries around making the most of their summer vacation. The further south you go, getting closer to the Sahara Desert, the hotter it gets. 

For some ocean breeze relief from the heat, head to coastal spots like Rabat and Essaouira. Winters are cold and wet, but also prime time for surfing the Atlantic coast.

Algeria and Tunisia

The spring months of March to May are prime for visiting this region, as the landscape is lush and green after the winter rains and the temperatures are warm but not uncomfortable. 
While Algeria and Tunisia get very hot and humid during the high summer tourist season, their coastal towns are lively and energetic despite the warm weather.

Milder conditions during this time are the best time to visit ancient Roman ruins, archaeological sites, and beach resorts. September can also be a good option as the summer heat simmers down to more comfortable levels.

Libya

Unlike the other countries in the region, the best visits to Libya are during the cooler months in the fall and winter(from October to March), when the temperatures are less intense. The northern coastline facing the Mediterranean features a milder climate compared to the extreme conditions on the sprawling Sahara Desert, but summers are uncomfortably hot and humid. If you’re planning your North Africa tours, keep in mind that late spring in Libya sees harsh sandstorms blowing in from the south.

 

Egypt

Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Egypt is around winter (November to February), when travelers can go from stunning Red Sea beaches to the Great Pyramid of Giza without breaking a sweat. However, this is peak season with high rates and little elbow room at tourist spots. 

Spring (March to May) and fall (September and October) offer the best of both worlds with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. 

Although summer is best to be avoided given the blistering desert, you can choose to beat the heat by spending your vacation by the coast. This is a good time for a cruise on the Nile River, or scuba diving and snorkeling on the Red Sea.
 
No matter the season, a cruise traveling through the northern region of Africa is a spectacle worth experiencing. This kind of trip includes visiting the massive sand seas of the Sahara Desert, experiencing underwater gems of the Red Sea, and going to some of the most stunning ancient ruins in the world.

Start planning your trip and contact our Adventure Life travel experts for assistance.