Yes, December is a good time to visit Morocco, particularly if you want to explore Marrakech, experience Moroccan culture, visit the Atlas Mountains or enjoy a Sahara Desert adventure without the intense heat of summer.
December is winter in Morocco, so temperatures are generally cooler, especially in the evenings and at higher elevations. However, southern Morocco and the Atlantic coast can still offer pleasant daytime conditions. The Moroccan National Tourist Office notes that coastal areas have a mild climate year-round, while mountain regions are colder in winter.
What Is Morocco Like in December?
December offers a different experience from Morocco’s hot summer months.
In Marrakech and Fes, days can be comfortable for sightseeing, while evenings and early mornings can feel chilly. Official Moroccan tourism information gives typical December–January daytime ranges of around 12–18°C for Marrakech and Fes.
On the Atlantic coast, destinations such as Agadir generally have milder winter conditions. The Moroccan National Tourist Office describes Agadir as having a mild climate and around 300 days of sunshine per year.
The Sahara Desert is also possible in December, but temperatures can drop considerably after sunset. If you are staying overnight in Merzouga, warm layers are essential.
December is a good time to visit Morocco Desert Tour?
Yes, December can be a great option for travellers who want to experience Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes.
The daytime can be pleasant for exploring the desert, camel trekking and visiting local communities. However, desert nights are cold, so choose accommodation with proper bedding and heating if available.
For a December Morocco itinerary, we recommend allowing enough time to enjoy the desert rather than treating it as a quick stop between Marrakech and Fes.
What Should You Pack for Morocco in December?
Pack for changing temperatures.
Bring:
- Light daytime clothing
- A warm jacket or fleece
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Long trousers
- Layers for Marrakech and Fes
- Warm clothing for the Sahara
- A hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A warmer layer for early mornings and evenings
If your itinerary includes the Atlas Mountains, pack additional warm clothing because temperatures can be significantly colder at higher elevations.
Where Should You Go in Morocco in December?
December works particularly well for a route combining several different regions:
Marrakech → Atlas Mountains → Aït Ben Haddou → Dades Valley → Merzouga → Fes
You can also add Essaouira or Agadir if you have more time.
Marrakech is particularly attractive in winter because you can explore the medina, souks and historic attractions without the extreme summer heat.
Is December a Good Month for a Morocco Holiday?
For travellers looking for culture, sightseeing, desert experiences and mild winter weather, December can be an excellent month to consider.
The main thing to remember is that Morocco is geographically diverse. December does not feel the same everywhere: coastal areas can remain mild, Marrakech and Fes have cooler evenings, the mountains can be cold, and the Sahara can become very cold overnight.
If you’re planning a private Morocco tour in December, a tailor-made itinerary allows you to combine the destinations and activities that best suit the winter conditions.
Ready to explore Morocco in December? Tell us your dates, number of travellers and the places you’d like to visit, and we can create a private itinerary around your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Morocco in December
Is December a good time to visit Morocco?
Yes. December can be a very good time to visit Morocco for sightseeing, cultural experiences and Sahara Desert trips. Daytime temperatures are generally more comfortable than during the hot summer months, although evenings can be cold.
What is the weather like in Morocco in December?
Morocco’s December weather varies by region. Marrakech and Fes are generally mild during the day but cooler at night, while the Atlas Mountains are colder. Southern Morocco and the Sahara can have pleasant sunny days but very cold nights.
Is Morocco warm in December?
Morocco can be warm during the daytime in some regions, but it is not consistently warm everywhere. Marrakech, Agadir and other southern destinations can feel pleasantly mild, while mornings and evenings are usually cooler.
Can I visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco in December?
Yes. December is a suitable month for a Sahara Desert tour to Merzouga and Erg Chebbi. You can enjoy camel trekking, sunset and sunrise in the dunes and an overnight desert camp, but you should bring warm clothing because desert temperatures drop significantly at night.
Is December a good time to visit Marrakech?
Yes. December is a popular period for exploring Marrakech because daytime conditions are generally comfortable for walking through the medina, visiting historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Evenings can be chilly, so layers are recommended.
Is December a good time to visit the Atlas Mountains?
Yes, but expect colder conditions, particularly at higher elevations. Snow is possible in the mountains during winter, so warm clothing and appropriate footwear are important.
Is December a good time to visit Fes?
Yes. Fes can be a good winter destination for exploring the historic medina, traditional crafts and cultural attractions. Temperatures are cooler than in summer, especially after sunset.
What should I wear in Morocco in December?
The best approach is to wear layers. Pack comfortable walking shoes, trousers, long-sleeved clothing, a warm jacket and additional warm layers for the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert.
Does it rain in Morocco in December?
Rain is possible in December, particularly in northern and coastal areas. Morocco has different climates across the country, so rainfall varies considerably by destination.
Is December a busy time to visit Morocco?
December can attract international visitors, particularly around the Christmas and N
