Morocco In December: Weather, Things To Do & Travel Tips
Planning a trip to Morocco in December?
Winter is often overlooked, yet it’s one of the best times to explore the country. The days are cooler, the cities are calmer, and you’ll still find plenty of sunshine, especially in the south.
We spent a month in Morocco and loved the sounds and smells of the medinas, the magic of the Sahara Desert, and the friendliness of the locals. With a slower pace and far more comfortable temperatures than summer, December is a great time to explore.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about Morocco in December, from the weather and what to pack to the best places to visit and practical tips for travelling at this time of year.
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Morocco in December means mild days, chilly nights, and far fewer crowds. Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen are much easier to explore, the Sahara is perfect for camping, and Agadir offers a touch of winter sun. Pack layers, book ahead for New Year, and you’ll be set for an incredible trip.
➡️ Keep reading for full details on weather, things to do, and travel tips!
What’s The Weather Like In December?
The weather in Morocco in December really depends on where you go. Days are usually mild, but evenings can get cold, especially in the desert and the mountains.
Here’s a quick look at the average temperatures across some of the most popular destinations:
- Marrakech – Highs of 19°C, lows of 7°C. Expect warm days for sightseeing, but chilly evenings.
- Sahara Desert – Highs of 20°C, lows of 4°C. Expect sunny days, but freezing nights under the stars.
- Agadir – Highs of 22°C, lows of 10°C. This is one of the warmest spots in December and is great for winter sun.
- Casablanca – Highs of 18°C, lows of 8°C. Expect mild weather that is rainy at times.
- Fes – Highs of 16°C, Lows of 6°C. Expect cool days and cold evenings with some rain.
- Atlas Mountains – Highs of 12°C, lows of 0°C. Snowfall is common and skiing is possible in Oukaimeden.
Most travellers will find Morocco in December comfortable, but temperatures do drop quickly after sunset. If you’re heading into the desert or mountains, you’ll definitely need warmer layers.
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Exploring Marrakech In Winter
Marrakech is one of the most popular places to visit in Morocco, and December is no exception. The days are usually warm enough to enjoy walking through the medina, with average highs around 19°C. Evenings are much cooler, so you’ll need a jumper or jacket once the sun goes down.
Exploring the souks in winter feels far more comfortable than in the summer heat. You can take your time wandering through the narrow lanes and browsing shops without melting. The city still feels lively and colourful, but with fewer tourists than in peak season.
December is also a great time to visit Marrakech’s main sights. The Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and Jardin Majorelle are all much quieter than in summer, making it a far more enjoyable experience.
Best Things To Do In Morocco In December
One of the best things about visiting Morocco in December is that there are plenty of things to do, without the crowds or insane heat. Whether you want to experience desert camps, see the beautiful mountains, or explore Morocco’s cities, December gives you plenty of choice.
Experience A Sahara Desert Camp
December is one of the best months to visit the Sahara Desert. Days are warm, skies are clear, and the nights are perfect for stargazing. It’s cold once the sun has set, but overall it’s far more comfortable than visiting in summer.
Visiting the Sahara Desert was easily one of the best things we did in Morocco. Riding a camel across the dunes, watching the sunset, and sleeping under a sky full of stars was incredible.
December makes the heat far more bearable, and some camps are only open in winter. Just be sure to bring layers to wrap up in the evenings.
Go Skiing In The Atlas Mountains
December marks the start of ski season in the High Atlas. Oukaimeden is Morocco’s main resort and is only a couple of hours from Marrakech.
It is certainly not the Alps, but if you’re visiting in December it is a unique chance to combine culture with skiing or snowboarding. Plus, it is far cheaper than in many European ski destinations.
Even if you don’t ski, the snow-covered peaks are worth seeing, and the mountain villages are a complete contrast to Marrakech.
Explore Marrakech’s Palaces And Gardens
The cooler weather makes it much easier to enjoy Marrakech’s highlights. The Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and Jardin Majorelle are all quieter than in summer, so you can explore without the crowds.
Wandering through peaceful courtyards and colourful gardens makes a welcome break from the bustling medina. You may even find it easier to haggle for souvenirs in the souks during the quieter winter months!
Wander Through Fes Medina
Fes can feel pretty intense in summer, but in December, the cooler weather makes it easier to explore. You can spend hours wandering the medina, visiting the tanneries, and discovering hidden corners of the city without rushing.
The Al Attarine Madrasa, with its detailed tilework, is particularly beautiful. The Bou Inania Madrasa is another highlight, and one of the few religious sites in Morocco that non Muslims can enter. Don’t miss the Chouara Tannery, where leather is still dyed in huge vats — it’s one of the most iconic views of Fes.
Relax On The Coast
Agadir is one of the warmest places in Morocco in December, with average highs around 22°C, making it a good choice for winter sun. Essaouira is breezier, but it’s a great spot if you want a quieter few days by the sea.
Whilst it may not be warm enough to sunbathe, both towns have beautiful medinas to wander. Essaouira has a historical fort and fishing port, while Agadir is also a popular spot for surfing in winter, with consistent waves and surf schools.
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Visit Chefchaouen & Hike In The Rif Mountains
December is a great time to visit Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous blue city. It is cooler, with average highs around 15°C, but the lack of crowds makes it easier to enjoy. In summer, the streets are packed with people queuing for photos. Visiting in December means you can wander freely.
There are also many hikes in the Rif Mountains, which are far more enjoyable in the cooler weather. Akchour Falls is especially impressive in winter, with the big falls in full flow.
The softer light in December also makes Chefchaouen particularly beautiful for photography.
Experience A Hammam
Winter is one of the best times to experience a traditional Moroccan hammam. After a day of sightseeing, stepping into the warm steam feels amazing, and it is a great way to unwind. A hammam usually involves sitting in a steam room before being scrubbed down and washed.
Public hammams are found in almost every town and city. They are simple and inexpensive, with separate areas for men and women. You’ll often see families coming in with their own buckets and soap.
If you’d prefer something more private, many riads and hotels also have their own hammams, often offering a more spa-like experience. Whichever you choose, visiting a hammam in the cooler winter months is the perfect way to warm up and enjoy a Moroccan tradition.
What To Bring To A Public Hammam:
Celebrating Christmas & New Year In Morocco
Morocco is a Muslim country, so Christmas is not widely celebrated, though you will still find a festive atmosphere in the main tourist cities. Hotels, restaurants, and some riads put on special dinners, and you may see decorations in popular tourist areas.
In Marrakech, many riads and hotels offer Christmas meals, often mixing Moroccan and European dishes. You might find a turkey tagine on the menu or festive desserts alongside mint tea. Larger hotels in Casablanca, Rabat, and Agadir are also more likely to host themed dinners.
New Year’s Eve is a different story. Marrakech is the most popular place to celebrate, with rooftop bars and clubs offering live music and parties until sunrise. The Djemaa el Fna square is especially lively, filled with performers, food stalls, and countdown crowds.
Agadir is another good option, with beach clubs and hotels along the seafront hosting big parties. If you’d prefer something quieter, heading into the desert for New Year’s Eve under the stars is unforgettable. Many Sahara tours include a special dinner, music around the fire, and plenty of time to watch the night sky.
What To Pack For December Weather
Packing for Morocco in December is all about layers. The days can be warm and sunny, especially in the south, but evenings get cold, particularly in the desert and the mountains.
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Here are some essentials we’d recommend bringing:
Tip: Morocco is generally a conservative country, so it’s best to avoid clothing that is too revealing. Long trousers, skirts, and tops that cover the shoulders will help you feel comfortable and respectful.
Seasonal Travel Tips
December may not be the first month people think of when planning a trip to Morocco, but it is one of the most rewarding times to visit. Here’s a few tips so you can get the most out of your trip.
- Enjoy the smaller crowds – December is low season, so you’ll find fewer tourists and better deals.
- Plan for shorter days – The sun sets around 5:30pm, so start your sightseeing early.
- Book ahead for Christmas and New Year – Hotels and tours can sell out fast in Marrakech, Agadir, and the Sahara.
- Pack for all seasons – You could be in a t-shirt in Agadir and a winter coat in the Atlas on the same trip.
- Use public transport wisely – Trains and buses are excellent, but book a few days in advance around holidays. Or, consider hiring a car for flexibility.
- Do not skip travel insurance – Winter weather can disrupt plans, and medical help abroad can be expensive. Proper insurance is essential.
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FAQs
Still have a few questions about visiting Morocco in December? We’ve outlined the most common questions below.
Is Morocco Warm In December?
That depends. Southern cities like Agadir and Marrakech can feel warm in the day, with average highs around 19–22°C. Evenings are chilly everywhere, and in the desert or mountains it can drop close to freezing. It is not hot in December, but the south can offer a warm escape.
Where Is The Warmest Place In Morocco In December?
Agadir is usually the warmest place, with highs around 22°C and plenty of sunshine. Marrakech is also mild during the day, but nights are colder.
What Is The Weather Like In Marrakech In December?
Expect highs of 19°C and lows around 7°C. Days are comfortable for sightseeing, but evenings require a jacket.
Can You Visit The Sahara Desert In December?
Yes — it’s one of the best months to go. The days are sunny, and the nights are cold but perfect for stargazing. Just bring warm layers.
What Should I Pack For Morocco In Winter?
Bring layers for different climates: light clothes for the day, a warm jacket for evenings, and thermals for the desert or mountains.
Wrap Up
Morocco in December is a fantastic time to visit. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and you can experience everything from snowy mountains to desert camps in one trip.
We spent a month travelling through Morocco and loved the sounds and smells of the medinas, the magic of the Sahara Desert, and the friendliness of the locals we met. Experiencing that in December, with cooler weather and a calmer pace, makes the idea of returning even more appealing.
If you are considering visiting Morocco in December, just do it. You will get to see the country in a completely different light, and it might just become your favourite time to visit.
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