Morocco in December: Weather, Events & Tips
December Weather Across Morocco
December is the depth of Moroccan winter. Marrakech and Agadir see mild sunny days around 17-20°C, but nights drop sharply to 5-8°C. The contrast between warm afternoons and cold evenings defines the month.
The High Atlas is snowy and cold, the Sahara delivers pleasant warm days near 18-20°C with frigid nights, and the coast is mild but breezy. Northern Morocco is the wettest, with regular December rain.
What December Is Best For
December is a classic winter-sun destination for Europeans escaping grey winters. The cities are comfortable for daytime sightseeing, and the clear, crowd-light conditions are excellent for photography.
It is also a time for snow novelty at Oukaïmeden and atmospheric, blanket-wrapped desert nights under exceptionally clear winter skies. The festive end of the month brings a special buzz to riads and resorts.
Events and Festivals
While Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, the major tourist hubs and riads embrace a festive Christmas and New Year atmosphere, with special dinners, decorations and gala celebrations in Marrakech and coastal resorts.
Various cultural and music events round out the year in the cities, and the holiday period sees a lively, celebratory mood among international visitors enjoying the mild winter sun.
Crowds and Prices
December is mostly low season with low prices, but the Christmas and New Year week is a notable exception, when Marrakech and the coast fill with holidaymakers and prices spike sharply.
Outside that festive peak, December offers excellent value with quiet sites and easy availability. Booking well ahead is essential for the holiday week if you plan to travel then.
What to Pack
Pack genuine layers: light tops for warm midday sun and a warm sweater, fleece or jacket for cold mornings and evenings. Heating in older riads is often limited, so warm sleepwear helps.
For the Atlas or desert nights bring a proper winter coat, hat, gloves and warm socks. Include a light waterproof for coastal and northern rain, and comfortable closed shoes over sandals.
Practical Tips for December Travel
Book a riad with heating, fireplaces or extra blankets, as December nights are colder than newcomers expect. Confirm whether desert camps provide heaters and thick bedding before reserving.
Days are short, with sunset near 17:45, so plan sightseeing early and avoid icy mountain passes after dark. Reserve far ahead if visiting during the busy, pricey Christmas and New Year week.
| City | Temp | Rain |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | 7-19°C | Low |
| Agadir | 8-21°C | Low |
| Fez | 5-16°C | Moderate |
| Merzouga (Sahara) | 3-20°C | Very low |
| Chefchaouen | 6-16°C | High |
Weather
FAQ
Is December a good time to visit Morocco?
Yes, for winter sun and city sightseeing. December offers mild sunny days, quiet sites and low prices outside the festive week, though nights are cold and the mountains are snowy.
Is Morocco busy at Christmas and New Year?
Yes. While most of December is low season, the Christmas and New Year week is a major peak in Marrakech and coastal resorts, with high prices and the need to book far ahead.
Does it snow in Morocco in December?
Yes, in the High Atlas mountains, where the ski resort of Oukaïmeden can open. Lowland cities and the desert do not get snow but have cold nights and mild, sunny days.
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