Weather in Morocco in December: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 07, 2025 0

December in Morocco marks the onset of winter, offering a unique blend of mild temperatures, cultural festivities, and diverse landscapes. Planning a visit to Morocco in December offers the charm of exploring this diverse country with the added benefit of cooler weather. Despite being one of the colder months, December is a great time to visit, especially if you prefer fewer crowds and clear skies. This article provides a detailed overview of what to expect from the weather in different regions of Morocco in December, along with essential packing tips and activity suggestions.

The best time to visit Morocco is during spring (mid-March to May) or fall (September to October). However, if you are looking for an early winter escape, you might want to consider visiting Morocco in December. Even in December, the weather in Morocco is pretty friendly. The weather is much more akin to Autumn than the winter most people experience compared with much of the Northern Hemisphere. The sunny north Africa skies and pleasant weather provide a welcomed escape from the chilly European and North American winter.

Unless they are heading off to spend the holidays with relatives, most people don’t think of December as the perfect time to take a vacation. But if you are looking for a winter escape, Morocco is a great place to visit. December is actually a great time to visit! And third, whether you want to embrace Christmas celebrations or get away from the festive season you can experience either option.

The weather definitely cools down quite a bit in Morocco in December. However, it is quite comfortable during the day when the sun is out. There is so much beautiful land to explore in Morocco, and a sunny December day is a great time to head out for a long hike. From large cities to friendly villages, Morocco is as diverse as the geography of the land.

If those cold winter temperatures are getting you down and you need a great place to escape for the holidays, the friendly country of Morocco is right here waiting to make you feel at home. In December, Morocco’s weather diversifies considerably across its regions. From the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the warm sands of the Sahara Desert, each region in Morocco offers unique climatic conditions.

The BEST Way to Spend 7 Days in Morocco (Travel Itinerary)

General Weather Conditions in December

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. Morocco weather December offers one of the best times for visiting Morocco, with mild daytime temperatures and cool temperatures at night, making it ideal for sightseeing. In December, Morocco experiences a range of weather conditions due to its diverse geography. The average temperature across Morocco during December typically ranges from 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F).

Rain is possible, as December is one of the wetter months in Morocco. This is especially true in the northern regions, so packing a waterproof jacket can be beneficial. Sunshine hours average around 6.5 hours per day, providing some bright, clear days amid the cooler weather.

A winter Morocco offers you a fascinating range of weather conditions, from breezy coastal cities to the more arid desert landscape.

Regional Weather Details

In December, Morocco’s weather diversifies considerably across its regions.

Read also: Casablanca Weather in December

Coastal Cities: December in the coastal cities of Morocco, such as Casablanca, Essaouira, and Agadir, offers mild and pleasant weather, making it a great time for travelers who enjoy a more temperate climate. Daytime temperatures typically range from 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F), with plenty of sunshine to enjoy leisurely walks along the beach or explore the vibrant coastal markets. Evenings in the coastal cities can be cool, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F).
Imperial Cities: December in Morocco’s imperial cities, including Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, and Meknes, provides a pleasant mix of mild days and cooler nights. Daytime temperatures typically range from 16°C to 19°C (61°F to 66°F), making it comfortable for exploring the rich history and culture of these vibrant cities. As evening falls, temperatures can drop to around 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F), so it’s a good idea to have a warm jacket on hand for nighttime activities.
Atlas Mountains: December in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco offers a unique experience for travelers seeking adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes. With temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) in the early mornings and evenings to around 15°C (59°F) during the day, the weather in December can be chilly but refreshingly crisp. While the lower altitudes remain relatively mild, it’s not uncommon for the higher parts of the mountains to receive a light dusting of snow by mid-December.
Moroccan Desert: December in the Moroccan Desert is a time of striking contrasts, where the daytime brings comfortable warmth and the nights turn quite chilly. During the day, temperatures in the sahara desert typically range from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F), making it ideal for exploring the golden dunes and enjoying desert activities like camel trekking. However, as soon as the sun sets, temperatures drop significantly, often reaching as low as 5°C (41°F) or even lower in some areas.

Here’s a quick look at the weather conditions in various regions:

Region	Conditions	Packing Tips	Explore
Casablanca	Cool and damp	Light to medium layers, warm jacket
Tangier	Cool and rainy	Layered clothing
Agadir	Mild, occasional rain
Fes	Cool, chance of rain	Layers, warm clothing	Medina, Bou Inania Madrasa, Royal Palace
Marrakech	Mild days, cooler nights	Lightweight clothing, warm layers	Jardin Majorelle, Saadian Tombs, Jemaa el-Fnaa
Meknes	Cool, likelihood of rain	Light to medium layers, warmer clothing
High Atlas Mountains	Cold, potential snowfall	Insulated jackets, thermal wear, sturdy boots
Middle Atlas	Cold, potential snowfall	Warm layers, snow-appropriate gear
Merzouga	Mild days, very cold nights	Lightweight clothing, warm layers	Camel rides, desert camps
Zagora	Cool days, very cold nights	Warm clothing, light clothing

It’s winter, but Morocco’s climate stays surprisingly varied. Think crisp mornings in the mountains, warm afternoons in the desert, and cool sea breezes on the coast.

The Sahara is especially popular in December, with sunny days, starry skies, and bearable temperatures for camel trekking and camping. Snow begins to fall in the Atlas Mountains, offering a different side of Morocco for those into hiking or scenic drives.

Vacation festivities also start to appear in larger cities like Marrakech and Fez, adding energy without overwhelming crowds.

What to Pack for December in Morocco

When traveling to Morocco in December, packing smartly is essential. The weather varies between cities, with Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca experiencing daytime temperatures of 55-70°F (13-21°C). Layering is key. A light jacket or a warm sweater is advisable for the cooler evenings. Consider visiting the Merzouga Desert for activities like camel rides and sandboarding. December’s cooler weather makes exploring the desert more enjoyable.

If you are heading to Morocco in December, think about packing clothing that would be comfortable for you in the autumn. Pants/trousers, jeans, 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.

It is also 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. 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. This sweater is a BARGAIN for cashmere (seriously they're around $50) and it's ideal for multiple weather types. I have it in several colors.

Layers: Bring layers to accommodate varying temperatures throughout the day and night. Brightly colored or patterned clothing can complement the vibrant atmosphere in Morocco. Choosing the right clothing helps you adapt to different climates and ensures you stay comfortable.

Activities and Things to Do in December

Visiting Morocco in December offers a unique opportunity to experience local culture and traditions. You can explore historical sites, partake in culinary tours, or embark on a desert adventure. Beach days are possible in Morocco during December, especially in southern coastal areas. In December, Marrakech tends to have cooler average temperatures of about 14°C.

Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Morocco in December.

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.
Explore Marrakech: No visit to Morocco is complete without a trip to Marrakech and in December, you might get the chance to catch the Marrakech International Film Festival. While spending time in the old Medina, make sure you take some time to visit the tanneries. Watch luxurious fabrics hand-dyed by skilled workers, preparing them to be used to make dresses, coats, bags, and any number of other beautiful items. If you are looking for a beautiful place to walk on a sunny day in Marrakech, the Majorelle Garden is one of the most beautiful locations you’ve ever seen, even in December. This magical garden was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle, who spent forty years of his life creating the garden of his dreams. One of the most popular activities in Marrakech is taking a cooking class and I’ve rounded up some of my favorites in this post. Plus, it’s a great way to stay warm if the December days are too cold! Marrakech is also a great base for your Morocco adventures. There are at least 9 day trips that you can take from the city when you want to get away.
Ski in the Atlas Mountains: For an unexpected Moroccan activity, head to the Atlas Mountains for some skiing. Morocco offers ski resorts with beautiful mountain landscapes for an adventurous winter experience.
Visit Taroudant: Taroudant is a lovely little city, approximately an hour and a half east of the coastal city of Agadir, on the road to Ouarzazate. Located a bit south of Marrakech, Taroudant is sometimes referred to as the “Grandmother of Marrakech” because it is so similar in many ways. The city of Taroudant is a wonderful place to just walk around. You will often find street artists painting something beautiful on one of the many walls. Berbers come to Taroudant to sell produce and other wonderful things.
Explore Rabat: 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.
Discover Safi: 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.
Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis: Explore the well-preserved ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the historical significance and architecture of this archaeological gem.
Discover Souss-Massa National Park: Explore the natural beauty of Morocco at the Souss-Massa National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Engage in Local Culture: Engage in local culture during your stay by visiting markets and historical sites. The medina in Marrakech is bustling and offers a unique shopping experience. Remember to practice respectful bargaining when purchasing goods. Try local delicacies and immerse yourself in the vibrant Moroccan atmosphere.
Traditional Experiences: December is perfect for exploring Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. Consider visiting a traditional hammam.
Exploring Traditional Markets: Don’t miss the bustling souks. These markets and medina streets, especially vibrant in cities like Marrakech and Fes, are ideal for finding traditional crafts, spices, and textiles.

Cultural Considerations

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 (see this post on Marrakech celebrations). That being said many are quite expensive so do some research before you make your plans. Also, many do require reservations so book in advance where possible. I’ve typically found information about what will be happening starts to come out in the beginning of the month and closer to the middle/end of December it’s easier to find.

Warm Hospitality: As you explore, you’ll appreciate Morocco’s renowned hospitality. From sipping mint tea in local cafes to sharing meals in family-run restaurants, you’ll find that Moroccans are warm and inviting, eager to share their culture with visitors.

Travel Tips

A common misconception about Morocco is that the country is just a desert and is always hot. Yes, the Sahara makes up a large chunk of inland Morocco and many places swelter in summer, but the climate changes depending on where you are in the country, and the time of year you visit.

December is considered the shoulder season in Morocco, meaning fewer tourists compared to the summer months. To experience even fewer crowds and potentially better accommodation deals, consider visiting during the first half of December.

Traveling to Morocco in December can offer excellent value for money. Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures mean you can explore more comfortably, and some of the best places to visit in Morocco feel calmer and more relaxed than in peak season.

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.

Suggested Itineraries

Morocco itinerary 5 days: A quick dive into Morocco’s highlights, focused on Marrakech and a nearby day trip. Expect vibrant markets, rich history, and a taste of Morocco’s landscapes.
Morocco itinerary 7 days: A week gives you time for multiple cities like Marrakech, Fez, and possibly a Sahara desert excursion.
Morocco itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows you to explore Morocco in depth, covering cities, desert, and coastal areas.
Marrakech itinerary: A focused exploration of the medina, palaces, and yards of Marrakech. An exciting experience awaits you in Morocco's vibrant cultural center.

Think of them as a starting point, perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.