Does It Snow In Morocco? Everything You NEED To Know

Wondering if it snows in Morocco?

Most travellers picture sun-drenched souks, rolling deserts, and warm coastal cities when they think of Morocco. But the reality is more diverse. Thanks to the Atlas Mountains and northern highlands, it does snow in Morocco, transforming parts of the country into winter wonderlands that might surprise you.

In this guide, we’ll cover where it snows, how often it happens, and what you can expect if you’re planning a winter trip to Morocco.

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Does It Snow In Morocco?

Yes, it does snow in Morocco, but only in certain areas. The country has a surprisingly varied climate, ranging from golden desert dunes to lush valleys and the dramatic Atlas Mountains. While many parts of Morocco stay mild through winter, the mountains and northern highlands see snow every year.

That’s what makes Morocco so unique. You could be sipping mint tea in Marrakech under a bright blue sky, then a few hours later find yourself surrounded by snowy peaks in the Atlas.

Snow in Morocco is not unusual in the mountains, but you should not expect it in the major cities. Coastal areas such as Casablanca, Essaouira and Rabat remain mild, while inland cities like Marrakech and Fes can be cold in winter but almost never see snow.

Where Does It Snow In Morocco?

If you are looking for snow in Morocco, you will need to head for the mountains. The Atlas Mountain range runs across the country and regularly sees snowfall throughout winter, especially at higher altitudes.

Some of the best places to experience snow in Morocco include:

High Atlas Mountains – Home to Morocco’s tallest peaks, including Mount Toubkal, the High Atlas is where you will find the most reliable snow. This is also where Oukaimeden, Morocco’s main ski resort, is located.
Middle Atlas Mountains – Towns like Ifrane and Azrou often receive heavy snow and can look like alpine villages in winter. Ifrane is even nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
Northern Mountains – The Rif Mountains and surrounding areas sometimes experience snow too, though it is usually lighter and less predictable.

In these regions, snowfall transforms the scenery, making it possible to ski, snowboard or simply enjoy the contrast of snow-dusted peaks against clear Moroccan skies.

How Often Does It Snow In Morocco?

Snow falls in Morocco every winter, but mostly in the mountains. The High and Middle Atlas receive snow reliably each year, with the heaviest falls usually between December and February. Ski season at Oukaimeden can run through late February or even March, depending on conditions.

In contrast, Morocco’s cities rarely see snow. Marrakech, Fes, and Meknes can get very cold in winter — sometimes close to freezing at night — but snowfall is almost unheard of. Coastal cities like Casablanca, Essaouira, and Rabat stay mild all year.

If you are hoping to see snow during your trip, plan to visit the Atlas Mountains or northern highlands in the peak winter months.

Atlas Mountains In Winter

The Atlas Mountains are the best place to experience Morocco in winter. As the temperatures drop, the peaks turn white with snow and the scenery feels completely different from the desert and cities below.

If you enjoy winter sports, you might be surprised to learn you can actually ski at Oukaimeden. Located about an hour from Marrakech, it sits at 2,600 metres and usually has snow for skiing and snowboarding between December and February.

While it is not as developed as European resorts, it offers a unique chance to ski in Africa with breathtaking views across the mountains. Now that is something not many people can say they have done.

You can even visit Oukaimeden for the day on a tour from Marrakech. The resort gets extremely busy at weekends, so we recommend going midweek for a much more enjoyable experience.

➡️ Click HERE To Book Your Marrakech Ski Tour In Advance ⬅️

If skiing is not for you, the Atlas is still well worth a visit in winter. Snow-covered trails, peaceful valleys, and cosy mountain villages give the region a completely different feel compared to summer.

Travelling here in winter is fairly straightforward, but it is worth being prepared. Roads can sometimes be icy and conditions change quickly at higher altitudes. Pack layers, a warm coat, and sturdy shoes so you can enjoy your time in the mountains comfortably.

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Best Time To Visit For Snow

If you are hoping to experience snow in Morocco, the best time to visit is between December and February. This is when the Atlas Mountains usually have the heaviest snowfall and the ski resort at Oukaimeden is most likely to be open.

December – Snow often starts falling in the Atlas, though it can be patchy early in the month.
January – The coldest month of the year and usually the most reliable for snow.
February – Still a great month for skiing and snowy scenery, with slightly longer days than January.
March – Some snow may remain at higher altitudes, but conditions become less predictable.

Cities like Marrakech, Rabat and Casablanca remain mild, so you can easily combine seeing snow in the mountains with a warm city break in the same trip.

Tips For Visiting Morocco In Winter

Winter is a fantastic time to explore Morocco, but there are a few things worth keeping in mind before you go.

Pack layers – While it is sunny in the day, nights in the cities can be cold and the mountains are much colder. Bring a warm coat, hat and gloves if you are heading into snowy areas.
Book a ski tour in advance – Oukaimeden is popular with locals and can get busy, so secure your spot early. ➡️ Click HERE To Book Your Morocco Ski Tour. ⬅️
Carry cash – Many smaller shops, riads and local guides do not accept card payments, so make sure you have Moroccan dirhams on hand.
Stay connected – An eSIM is a simple way to keep your phone working in remote mountain areas without the hassle of finding a local SIM.
Consider renting a car – If you want to explore the Atlas at your own pace, having a rental gives you the freedom to drive from Marrakech into the mountains.
Don’t skip insurance – With winter driving, icy roads and mountain activities, having reliable travel cover is essential. ➡️ Click HERE To Book Your Travel Insurance In Advance ⬅️

Adding these simple steps to your winter planning will make your trip smoother and give you the chance to experience both Morocco’s warm hospitality and its snow.

FAQs

Still have some questions about snow in Morocco? We have answered the most common ones below.

Does It Snow In Morocco In December?

Yes, December is the start of the snowy season in the Atlas Mountains. While the amount of snow depends on the year, December through February is usually the best time to see snow or go skiing.

Does It Snow In Marrakech?

Snow in Marrakech is extremely rare. The city can get cold in winter, especially at night, but you will need to head into the nearby Atlas Mountains if you want to see snow.

Does It Snow In Rabat?

No, Rabat has a mild coastal climate. Winters are cooler than summer but temperatures remain comfortable and snow does not fall here.

Where Does It Snow In Morocco?

Snow most commonly falls in the Atlas Mountains, especially around Oukaimeden, Mount Toubkal, Ifrane and Azrou. The Rif Mountains near Chefchaouen in the north also see some snow, but it is less consistent.

When Does It Snow In Morocco?

Snowfall usually begins in late November and continues through to February or March, depending on altitude and weather conditions. January tends to be the coldest month with the highest chance of snow in the mountains.

Wrap Up

So, does it snow in Morocco? Yes, but you will need to head to the mountains to find it. The Atlas Mountains and northern highlands see snow every winter, creating a completely different side to Morocco that many travellers do not expect.

Whether you are planning a ski trip to Oukaimeden, want to explore snow-dusted villages like Ifrane, or are simply curious about Morocco’s winter climate, visiting at this time of year offers a unique experience. You can combine time in the mountains with exploring cities like Marrakech and Fes for the best of both worlds, with warm sunshine in the day and snowy peaks just a short drive away.