Planning a trip to Morocco but unsure when to visit? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions is about the ideal time to explore this diverse North African gem. With years of experience guiding travelers through Morocco’s ancient medinas, sweeping deserts, and coastal towns, we’ve witnessed firsthand how the seasons transform this magnificent country.
While much of Morocco's weather is typical of a four-season climate, December offers a unique travel experience. Let's explore what to expect during this festive month.
Understanding Morocco’s Climate: A Common Misconception
A common misconception about Morocco is that it’s scorching hot all year round. However, being a country on the Mediterranean, Morocco actually experiences four distinct seasons. Though temperatures vary throughout the year, Morocco is usually very sunny, making it a perfect holiday destination regardless of when you choose to visit.
Winter in Morocco (December)
December marks the onset of winter in Morocco. The weather varies widely across the country due to its diverse geography, including coastal areas, inland cities, the Atlas Mountains, and desert regions.
Weather Conditions in December
- Weather: Winter begins in Morocco with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F) in most cities.
- Coastal Areas: Coastal areas like Casablanca and Essaouira remain mild.
- Inland Cities: Inland cities like Marrakech can be cooler, especially at night.
- Crowds: December, particularly around Christmas and New Year, is a high tourist season. Hotels may be more expensive, so booking in advance is essential.
Highlights of Visiting Morocco in December
- Enjoy exploring the medinas without the intense summer heat.
- Experience the Atlas Mountains with a dusting of snow.
- Take advantage of the clear winter light for photography.
Traveler Tip: Pack layers! The weather in December can be unpredictable. Days can be pleasantly warm, but nights get quite chilly, especially in desert regions.
Read also: Casablanca Weather in December
Conditions: Casablanca experiences cool and damp weather in December. Rain is more frequent, with occasional showers and overcast skies. Bring light to medium layers for daytime and a warm jacket for cooler nights.
Conditions: Tangier experiences cool and rainy weather in December. Layered clothing is recommended for daytime and warmer clothing for cooler nights.
Conditions: Fes experiences cooler temperatures with a chance of rain in December. Visit the medina, Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Royal Palace. Pack layers for daytime and warm clothing for chilly nights.
Conditions: Marrakech enjoys relatively mild days with cooler nights. Visit Jardin Majorelle, explore the Saadian Tombs, and experience the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa. Pack lightweight clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
Conditions: Meknes experiences cool temperatures with a likelihood of rain in December. Light to medium layers for daytime and warmer clothing for cooler nights.
Read also: What to Wear: Morocco Winter Guide
Conditions: The High Atlas Mountains experience cold temperatures in December, with the possibility of snowfall at higher elevations. Bring warm clothing and layers, including insulated jackets, thermal wear, and sturdy boots.
Conditions: The Middle Atlas experiences cold temperatures with potential snowfall in December. Pack for cold temperatures with warm layers and snow-appropriate gear.
Conditions: Merzouga experiences mild days with very cold nights. Enjoy camel rides and stay in desert camps. Prepare for hot days with lightweight clothing and warm layers for cold nights.
Conditions: Zagora experiences cool daytime temperatures with very cold nights. Pack for varying temperatures with warm clothing for cold nights and light clothing for daytime.
Also it is a great idea to be prepared for much cooler nights. If you plan to visit the mountains, a heavier waterproof jacket, warm socks, hats, and waterproof boots (if you plan to hike) will be helpful.
Read also: Kenya December Travel Guide
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What to Pack for a December Trip to Morocco
If you are heading to Morocco in December, think about packing clothing that would be comfortable for you in the autumn. Pants/trousers, jeans, sweaters, long skirts of heavier-weight fabric, sweaters, sweatshirts, and hoodies are all excellent ways to stay comfortable when the weather is cooler. Winter is Morocco’s rainy season so even if it’s not cold, you may face rain. It is advisable to bring a rain jacket at a minimum and ideal something that has some warmth and rain protection. Double-check the areas you plan to be to determine how cold it will be and adjust your packing list.
- Layers to accommodate varying temperatures throughout the day and night.
- Coastal Cities: Easily accessible by train, bus, or car.
- Inland and Mountain Regions: Renting a car or hiring a driver offers flexibility, especially in areas with varying weather.
- Desert Travel: Plan long drives and prepare for significant temperature fluctuations.
- Don’t forget to bag a big scarf - it will serve double (or triple!) duty!
- A good blazer is amazing for layering and also for dressing up an outfit.
December Activities and Events in Morocco
December is a great time to make a winter escape to Morocco. Although it is one of the colder months of the year, it is quite comfortable during the day when the sun is out. From large cities to friendly villages, Morocco is as diverse as the geography of the land.
Marrakech International Film Festival
For movie lovers, the Marrakech International Film Festival is a real treat. Gathering together some of the best international writers and actors, the festival is a celebration of some of the best Moroccan and foreign feature films, photography, and shorter video projects. This international film festival takes place in Marrakech every year and is one of the biggest events in the country. It makes way for film stars and Hollywood actors and features a competition and awards for new talent. Created in 2001 by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to promote the arts in Morocco, this festival is now one of the best in the world and usually falls in early December.
Tan Tan Moussem
The Tan Tan Moussem is an annual gathering of over 30 different tribes from Morocco’s southern region. Taking place in the city of Tan-Tan in the south of Morocco near the border every December, this event is a celebration of traditional Berber culture, and the main draw for the tribes is camel trading, but there are also other exciting things taking place throughout the festival. That includes weddings, inter-tribal competitions and games, traditional Berber re-enactments, and plenty of music and dancing.
New Year's Eve
Whilst Christmas isn’t widely celebrated, Morocco is a popular destination during the festive period. So expect it to get a little busier later in the month. By New Year’s Eve, some cities could become crowded again. Here, it’s tradition to see in a brand new year sitting under the stars in the desert. So if you’re interested in exploring the sights of the Sahara Desert, December could be the perfect time.
Other Activities
- Explore: Visit the medina, Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Royal Palace.
- Sightseeing: Visit Jardin Majorelle, explore the Saadian Tombs, and experience the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa.
- Camel Trekking: Enjoy camel rides and stay in desert camps.
One great place to visit in December is Rabat. The Moroccan capital city has all the modern conveniences you could want, with a busy European vibe. One great place to escape the chill is the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. As fun as this modern city is to explore, be sure to leave plenty of time to visit the Rabat Medina. The walled original city is beautiful and small enough you can explore it in less than a day.
Two-and-a-half hours south of Casablanca, on the Atlantic coast, is the picturesque city of Safi. Head over to the National Ceramics Museum to learn more about Safiot pottery. The museum is located in the Kechla citadel, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and is worth seeing even without the ceramics.
Cultural Considerations in December
Morocco is a Muslim country so there aren’t the normal festivities you might expect around Christmas-time. In cities like Marrakech or Rabat that have quite a bit of tourism you will see some shops decorated or lights but don’t expect too much. There are churches in many larger Moroccan cities if you would like to attend a service though most are held in French or Spanish. In small cities you won’t find much going on but in larger cities there are quite a few special New Year’s eve dinners and celebrations.
The Berber (or Amazigh) communities in Morocco celebrate New Year around the 12th / 13th January, it’s called Yennayer and announces the beginning of the crop year. Head down to the communities in Agadir and Tiznit or to the Middle Atlas if you want to join in the singing, dancing and couscous!
Conclusion
December in Morocco offers a range of weather conditions from mild and rainy coastal cities to cold and snowy mountainous areas. The desert regions provide a stark contrast with warm days and very cold nights. Pack accordingly, and enjoy the unique experiences this month has to offer!
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