Visiting Morocco in December can combine city sightseeing, mountain scenery and a journey to the Sahara. Winter brings milder conditions for exploring than the intense summer heat, but the weather changes considerably between the coast, inland cities, mountains and desert.
The most important preparation is to pack for cool mornings and cold evenings as well as sunny afternoons. Choose accommodation with suitable heating, allow time for winter road conditions and plan outdoor visits around shorter daylight hours.
This guide explains what to expect, where to go and how to organize a comfortable December trip.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
December can be a rewarding choice for travelers interested in culture, landscapes and desert experiences. Walking through medinas and visiting historical sites can feel more comfortable without summer temperatures.
However, it is winter. Rain is possible, mountain routes can experience snow, and desert evenings require warm clothing. Morocco’s coastal, mountain and inland climates differ considerably, so plan around your actual route rather than one nationwide weather average.
If your priority is dependable beach weather or swimming every day, check conditions carefully and choose accommodation with a confirmed heated pool.
What Is the Weather Like in Morocco in December?
Marrakech provides a useful example of the difference between afternoon and overnight conditions. Climate averages put December daytime highs around 20°C, with overnight lows around 6°C. These are averages, rather than a forecast for your travel dates.
Elsewhere, elevation and distance from the sea make a substantial difference.
| Destination or region | What to prepare for |
|---|---|
| Marrakech | Mild sunny afternoons, colder mornings and evenings, and possible rain |
| Fes and inland northern cities | Cool winter sightseeing and cold evenings |
| Agadir and the southern Atlantic coast | Relatively mild coastal conditions, with wind and possible rain |
| Essaouira | Atlantic breezes and changeable coastal weather |
| Merzouga and the Sahara | Comfortable conditions for some daytime activities, followed by cold evenings and nights |
| Atlas Mountains | Much colder conditions at altitude, with possible snow and ice |
This is a general planning guide. Check local forecasts for each overnight stop before departure.
Are the Days Short in December?
Yes. December brings some of the shortest days of the year. Marrakech has approximately 10 hours of daylight, so an itinerary needs earlier starts and realistic sightseeing stops.
For a desert trip, agree on your arrival time with the organizer so that delays do not cause you to miss a planned sunset activity.
Places to Visit in Morocco in December
Marrakech
Marrakech works well as a base for a winter city break or the beginning of a longer journey. Combine medina walks, historical visits, gardens and time to enjoy Moroccan food.
Plan outdoor stops during the brighter part of the day. Keep a warmer layer with you for shaded streets, rooftop meals and the walk back to your accommodation after dinner.
If you are continuing toward the Sahara, explore our tours from Marrakech and choose a route that leaves enough time for the journey.
Fes
Fes suits travelers who want to spend time exploring a historic medina, traditional crafts and Moroccan architecture.
Give the city a full sightseeing day where possible. A winter itinerary feels less rushed when you have time for indoor visits and meal breaks rather than trying to cover everything between transfers.
Our tours from Fes offer options for continuing toward Merzouga and other destinations.
Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi Dunes
Merzouga is a strong choice if the Sahara is an important part of your trip. You can combine the dunes with nearby villages and desert landscapes.
December visits need particular attention to evening clothing and accommodation. A sunny afternoon does not tell you how comfortable you will feel outside after dinner.
If your schedule allows, consider two nights in the area: one in a riad or hotel and another in a desert camp. This gives you more time between the journeys into and out of the desert.
Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou
These destinations can form part of a route between Marrakech and southeastern Morocco. Allow time for exploring rather than treating every stop as a quick photograph.
When comparing itineraries, check where you sleep and how much driving each day involves. Adding another night can give you more time for visits and reduce the pressure to reach the next destination before evening.
Agadir or Essaouira
A coastal stay can add a different atmosphere to a city or desert itinerary. Choose it for seaside walks, food and time to relax.
Pack a windproof layer and keep your plans flexible. If swimming is essential, ask specifically about pool heating and its operating dates before booking.
Visiting the Sahara Desert in December
A Sahara visit can include camel trekking in Morocco, dune walks and time at a desert camp. With an additional day, a Merzouga 4×4 desert excursion can introduce you to landscapes and villages beyond the dunes.
The 4×4 excursion can be adapted to your available time. Winter mornings and evenings can be cold, so bring a warm jacket even when the daytime forecast looks pleasant.
What Should You Check Before Booking a Winter Camp?
Ask the organizer:
- Is there heating inside the sleeping tent?
- Is the dining area enclosed and heated?
- What bedding and additional blankets are provided?
- Are bathrooms private, and is hot water available?
- Can a vehicle transfer be arranged if someone prefers not to ride a camel?
Check the actual facilities rather than relying only on a camp’s description as “luxury.” Pack warm sleepwear and layers for spending time outdoors.
Can Winter Weather Affect Mountain Roads?
Yes. Routes crossing the Atlas Mountains need flexibility in winter. Snow or ice can affect higher ground, while heavy rain can make some roads hazardous and cause flooding.
Check conditions before a mountain crossing and allow extra time. Avoid building an itinerary around a tight connection immediately after a long mountain journey. Follow local instructions if a road is restricted or closed.
For mountain hiking, use a professional guide and choose an outing appropriate to your experience and the conditions. High-altitude winter routes require more preparation than a village walk.
What to Wear in Morocco in December
Pack clothing you can add or remove as the temperature changes.
Useful items include:
- Long trousers and comfortable tops.
- A fleece, jumper or warm cardigan.
- A warm jacket for evenings and desert stays.
- A waterproof outer layer.
- Closed walking shoes with a good grip.
- Warm socks, a hat and gloves for cold mornings.
- Thermal layers and warm sleepwear for a desert itinerary.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm.
Keep your jacket accessible during transfers rather than at the bottom of a suitcase.
Before reserving a riad or hotel, ask whether the bedroom has heating and whether it operates overnight. If you are traveling with children or anyone particularly sensitive to cold, make accommodation comfort a priority.
Christmas and New Year Travel
If you are planning a Christmas or New Year trip, reserve your preferred accommodation and transport early.
For a special dinner or desert celebration, ask for the exact program and a written explanation of what the price includes. Confirm whether meals, entertainment and transfers are included or charged separately.
Check event dates for your travel year. Islamic religious festivals follow a different calendar and should not be treated as annual December events.
A Suggested Seven-Day December Itinerary
For travelers arriving in Marrakech and leaving from Fes, this is one possible route:
| Day | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Marrakech and settle into your accommodation |
| Day 2 | Explore Marrakech |
| Day 3 | Travel through the High Atlas, visit Ait Ben Haddou and continue toward Dades |
| Day 4 | Visit Todra Gorge and continue to Merzouga for a desert camp night |
| Day 5 | Explore the Merzouga area and stay in a riad or hotel |
| Day 6 | Travel toward Fes through the Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas |
| Day 7 | Explore Fes, with departure arrangements matched to your flight |
This is a suggested outline, not a fixed package. It includes long driving days, and the route may need adjustment for weather, road conditions and arrival or departure times.
With fewer days available, consider covering fewer destinations rather than compressing the same journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Morocco warm in December?
Some destinations have mild afternoons, particularly in sunshine. Evenings can be cold, and mountain conditions are much colder. Pack for your full itinerary.
Does it rain in Morocco in December?
Yes. Rain is possible, and conditions vary by region and year. Bring a waterproof layer and check forecasts before longer journeys.
Can you stay in a Sahara desert camp in December?
A camp stay can be arranged, but confirm winter facilities, bedding and heating before booking. Bring warm clothing for the evening and overnight stay.
Does it snow in Morocco in December?
Snow is possible in the mountains. Its timing and extent vary, so check current conditions before planning a snow excursion or mountain crossing.
Is December suitable for a family trip?
It can be, with comfortable accommodation, warm clothing and manageable driving days. Discuss children’s ages and any transfer requirements when planning your route.
How many days should you allow for Marrakech and the Sahara?
Three-day trips involve substantial driving. Four or more days give you greater flexibility for stops and overnight arrangements. Adding time in Merzouga helps you explore beyond a single camp night.
Plan Your Morocco Trip with Unique Desert Tour
Unique Desert Tour is based in Merzouga and organizes private journeys around Morocco.
Tell us your December travel dates, arrival and departure cities, number of travelers and accommodation preferences. We can discuss a route that fits your available time, including city visits, desert activities and overnight arrangements.