Exploring Morocco in December: Weather, Tours and Activities
Exploring Morocco in December: A Comprehensive Guide is an informative work aimed at helping readers immerse themselves in the rich diversity of Moroccan culture through specific events held in the country during the month of December. Morocco is a melting pot of cultures where you’ll find Arab, Berber and Jewish influence everywhere. The country truly is a delight to the senses and its people are warm and welcoming. December is an enchanting month in Morocco; from blankets of snow surrounding the High Atlas mountains to the palm-fringed beaches in Agadir flaunting a sunny weather. Making this the best time of year to travel to Morocco. But the question that most tourists need to ask themselves is, what are the things to do in Morocco in December? Holidays and festivals in Morocco in December. Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country but it has a sizable Jewish population as well and Christmas is still celebrated in tourist orientated areas in Morocco. From the Christmas markets in Marrakech to lighting up the Christmas tree inside hotels, you can find these traditions – all with a slight Moroccan twist of course! On Christmas Day, hotel and restaurant menus feature a festive roast and many will have live entertainment to mark the occasion. There are several special events taking in Jewish history and culture around this time in Morocco as well. The month of December is also a period of several special openings in the Royal Palaces in Morocco. Getting to Morocco in December. Getting to Morocco in December couldn’t easier! With flights connecting you to Morocco from almost anywhere in Europe, with a few budget airlines offering these services and often, there are great deals offered by the airlines.
December Weather in Morocco
Visualize the beginnings of winter. Most of Northern Africa is covered in snow, while in Morocco and the Western Sahara a warm sun is shining down upon you: this is winter in Morocco, a fantastic time to travel. December is one of the coolest months of the year in Morocco, but “cool” doesn’t mean snow: it means warm days, cool to cold nights, a sharp breeze among the dunes of the Sahara – in short, it is the best time of the year to explore Morocco and enjoy the lack of tourist crowds, as well as the lovely festivities of the special season. What to expect from December weather and climate in Morocco? How warm or cold is it in the Moroccan cities in December? Is it dry? Or rainy? Is it a good time to sunbathe? Or do you need to prepare to get very cold at night? This guide should clear any questions about the month of December for you.
The Moroccan climate is pleasantly mild during the day, dry and sunny, and can, however, become cold at night. Especially the coastal lowland and the plains of the Sahara are an ideal target for escaping winter. Of course, don’t expect beach weather like in the Caribbean or Maya Riviera. Our travel statistics tell of 12 days of rain in Marrakech during December with max. day temperatures of 17°C, average maximum temperatures of 14°C, average night temperature of 4°C (usually between 0° and 10°C) and, in Casablanca, of 57mm or 75mm of rain at the central coast with max. day temperatures of 20°C, average maximum temperatures of 16°C, average night temperature of 9°C (usually between 5° and 15°C). Mild temperatures, ample sun, and low rainfall characterize Morocco’s pleasant December weather.
What to Expect from December Weather
The weather is what makes Morocco an exciting travel destination. It is usually fun in winter and rainy spring followed by a hot summer. December is a partly cloudy month in Morocco that allows you to enjoy beautiful sunny days. At the same time, it also marks the onset of chilly weather in the northern and interior regions. But the country still remains dry, as snowfall is usually confined to a few days of the month in the Atlas mountains. And even here, the weather witnesses some pleasant intervals during which the sunlight warms up the place although nights remain cold. After sunset, a thin layer of fog may appear over the valleys.
The coasts and the southern regions are usually more relaxed, with pleasant to hot temperature. Rainfall is also possible, but it is less frequent than in November. However, as the desert is still cold, you may have to put on a jacket at night. Travelers should note that skiing is possible at the end of December in the Mid-Atlas summits, notably at Michlifen, Ifrane, and Mischliffen, and at Toubkal in the High Atlas. Usually, snow cover is more considerable in January and February. The daytime is also a little longer compared to the preceding month. Since the air is more humid than in fall, holidaymakers should dress in warmer and cocooning clothes. Artisan wool or cotton coats are more than welcome!
Winter in Morocco: Warm Days, Cozy Nights
While winter in Morocco may be cold in the rest of the world, it is rather warm in Morocco. December is not the month when you should carry your fur coats and ski boots. Morocco has a mild climate in December, and this is an excellent month to explore this wonderful land full of history, color, and the best architectural marvels. And if you want a bit of chill, you can always visit the desert regions where you will be lucky to experience the majestic sight of the sand dunes in winter snow-covered caps. Winter in Morocco is essentially the morning sun, with daytime temperatures ranging between 13-30 degrees Celsius. The nights can be a bit cozy as the temperatures dip down 3-15 degrees Celsius, but that should not stop you from wearing your shorts and dresses. If you are wishing for a white holiday, you will have to head for the High Atlas regions where temperatures will sink down to 0-7 degrees Celsius, and sometimes it may even snow.
There are also three types of climatic zones in Morocco, coastal areas, and interior regions with a hot semi-arid climate while the northern mountainous region has a temperate and rainy Mediterranean climate. The coastal areas of Agadir and Essaouira are hot dry sunny beaches in December, so if you want to enjoy the sun by the beach, this is where you need to head to. These are the touristy areas and should be avoided if you want to mingle with the local Moroccan culture.
Sunshine with a Chill: Understanding the Climate
Truly including all Moroccan territories means we can’t possibly expect the same climate throughout the country. What’s true about one area will not necessarily be true about another, although they could be neighbours. Since Morocco presents a coastline, a huge mountain range and a varied relief, we have a country with very close climate types. In December, winter is here; temperatures drop in all the country. As you travel from North to South, on the coast, especially, temperatures drown and so do your possibilities to enjoy the beach. The days are sunny and mild but nights and mornings can be cold. In this case holidays are low season: if you are looking for deserted beaches, as you go to the South you will find some in, for example, Dakhla. Up North temperatures are lower and days cloudy with a big probability of rain, being this country’s more rainy period. As you go to the mountain areas, the weather gets cold and could even snow; in December, we see the first snows that will make the country’s best ski resorts start working. If you are a ski lover, this is a great time to go to Ifrane, Michlifen, Oukaimden or the yet little known Kandar.
Cultural Highlights of December
So you’ve decided to spend the Christmas season in Morocco? Why not? December is lovely in Morocco. In many places there are clear skies, fairly warm days and cool nights. And fewer travelers are here to compete with you for attention; a certain “insider” feeling prevails. In addition to a variety of tourist activities, there are three Moroccan traditions you’ll want to experience: the miracle of the dates, the lambs of Eid al-Adha, and Christmas in the Kasbah.
Christmas, everyone hopes, is a time of good cheer. If you’re in Morocco, it will help make your Christmas a time of good cheer if you follow my suggestions about where to spend it. It isn’t going to be very Christmasy outside the Kasbah in Marrakech, hotels and restaurants there will be celebrating the event. But inside the Kasbah, the sacred heart of Marrakechi Jewish life, the local Jews will be celebrating the holiday that is most Christmasy of all. And the good people of the Kasbah will be more than willing to share their holiday cheer with you.
The Kasbah settlement of Marrachechi Jews is a place out of time. Here, just behind the great mosque, the Koutoubia, once stood the Koutoubia synagogue, the center of the Marrakechi Jewish community. Few if any traces of the Kasbah Jewish community remain apart from the beautiful old buildings still occupied. But most of those buildings date from the period after the Jews were expelled. Marrakechi Jews still come to the Kasbah to pray in the ancient synagogue that is still there, the Lazama synagogue. And it is here that Marrakechi Jews still gather to celebrate the festival of lights. In the Kasbah, Chanukah is very much of a family-oriented holiday. On Chanukah, families get together to pray in the synagogue, eat nice meals at home, light the Chanukah menorah, do holiday things together, and when their children are asleep at home, visit the other families of the community.
Christmas in the Kasbah
In the Kasbah, the festive Christmas season is celebrated prominently. Certainly, we Moroccans enjoy decorating each other’s houses during the month of November. We have all the white decoration: snowmen, ox leather boots, Santa Clauses, multi-colored flashing light bulbs, Christmas balls-hangings, and little shiny reindeer. We also have the red star in the center of Baldalam street. Before all these are put up, winter shopping starts with hot chocolate and fresh milk to beat the cold. The manufacturers rant all over during that month and work tooth and nail as the more sales, the more money. The amusing moment comes when people move to exchange these shiny bags, for they bump into absolutely all their friends. Apparently, Mom ordered candy canes on them and spiced nuts on some others.
I still remember the festivities in the streets of Kasbah, the little kids working in houses to help families in their work of cooking and cleaning every 1st of the month. Later at night, we would go to the old church where everybody gathers, from the small town of Kasbah and the surrounding areas. The faithful community is great. They sing carols together while holding flashlights; above your head, the roof is adorned with little blinking stars. When you feel hungry, families invite you to supper. If you are lucky, you will have the free meal served by generous people who observe this day in fasting. The others would go back home after the service so as to finish the guests and push the fasting. A few days later, a little Boy and some friends would ride their bicycle galloping about tables of madeleines, buche-de-noel, and petits-four to wish YOU a merry Christmas. During Christmas Eve, the same ritual goes back on all night long.
Festive Traditions and Celebrations
Moroccans experience a lifetime of cultural enrichment in celebration of their many festivals and boumra dance parties, often filled with music and songs. From coast to coast, there are a variety of festive events and different themes. Religious celebrations are often observed through prayer and donations to the less fortunate, family gatherings, and a variety of feasts. However, these celebrations can vividly mirror locality and ethnic norms.
Most of the festivals are based on the lunar calendar and particularly varied in the months of May and November, July and August. These celebrations are mostly of Jewish or Islamic origin. We may point out the Sheep Party, which takes place in July or August depending on the lunar calendar. For 80% of the people, this holiday consists of a prayer to God, followed by the sacrifice of a sheep, as was Abraham’s act. During this holiday, there are shows, including feats of acrobats and snake charmers. The Berber people celebrate it moreover in their own way; the show consists of sports arguments on horseback, the Dhabha, that is to say, the dismemberment of sheep in order to best share the meat with the poor of the village; and a lot of loud music. On this occasion, many people give goats to the poorest people. The offerings will be used to distribute couscous and tagines. While the Shiite communities address their prayers, the Sunni do not practice any concrete ritual.
Instead of the Sheep Party, the Christians and Jews celebrate Palm Sunday. The party consists of prayer and the procession with the little palm branches. For the Jews, it is the commemoration of the going out of Egypt. This party takes place 49 days before the Shavuot and only in the Jewish quarters.
Exploring Morocco’s Landscapes
While December in Morocco means rain on the coast and in the mountains, it’s still a great time to head south and see the wonders of North Africa’s prettiest country: dreamy desert landscapes, snow-capped Atlas peaks…and day after day of glorious sunshine. For some of us, sights don’t get more sight-bonkers than the sweeping dunes of the Great Desert dotted with towering palm trees…and the slightly less-great though still-Great Dunes Of Merzouga are only an overnight drive from Marrakech. Therein lies the rub: most travelers prefer to spend their time in Marrakech, therefore the closest dunes to the city are overcrowded with everyone from dudes on camels to tourist souk sellers flocking for pics.
Trust me on this: Merzouga is glorious and inspiring and gorgeous, but the nearby town? Not so much. Like many desert towns, Merzouga is a little xenary and gambling-themed, filled with loud locals singing karaoke into the void while drunk on high-stakes bets. Unless you’re in search of a desert party, think twice about taking in both Sahara spots. Better yet, take a spin from Marrakech to feel the desert with someone who knows and loves it there. An exceptional experience by Saharans for Saharans, is a grill-dinner, drum, mint tea, and storytelling affair followed by overnight camping in stylish digs. If you time it right, you’ll make it back to watch the sun rise behind the dunes.
From Snowy Peaks to Sunny Souks
Although December is considered the low season for tourists in Morocco, the atmosphere is perfect if you dream of escaping the cold and gray for a colorful break! A festive ambiance is settling, preparing for Christmas, and if you want to enlighten yourself, you just have to point the end of your nose towards the south of the country to find sun, colors, and warmth! You may also be tempted to brave the snow in the Middle and High Atlas, to go skiing or snowboarding while the lords of winter blow on the flocks of their summer pastures! Depending on your desires, you can therefore soar between the dreamy peaks laden with snow or the surfed sandy dunes of the great south to live an abstract adventure and let your head in the clouds! Tinged with the beautiful light of the end of the year, the elements, and nature take on mystical, sometimes surreal aspects that lead you to an elsewhere seeming unreachable. No longer going along the typical and expected roads and circuits, it is time to explore hidden routes behind which wonders blossom. From Marrakech in the south to Ouarzazate and Merzouga in the desert, you are offered a plethora of unexpected routes, basing your steps in the imperial ocher red city where a colorful market attracts the curious. Immerse yourself in the colors and sugars that bring warmth to haggled exchanges in the busy alleys of the souks, the scent of spices, and the flavors and scents preserved by the merchants of textile softness; local handicrafts are welcomed in busy stalls, before plunging into the frenetic pace of a city tangled in the whirlwind of life.
December in the Desert: Cool Days & Campfire Nights
A typical winter day in the Sahara tends to be sunny and hot, with nighttime temperatures edging slightly closer to zero. Combined with the mild days, this means that in terms of seasons, winter is an ideally pleasant time of year to explore Morocco’s central High Atlas Mountains, which are often cloaked in snow but lower elevations are snow-free. Morocco’s Central High Atlas are dramatic and rugose, topped with awe-inducing snow-blanketed rocky peaks that stage a comedic quandary for visitors: to hike the valleys and pass through the Berber villages below, or to scurry higher up so you can snowshoe and ski these peaks before dawn releases its grip on the snow!
Back down on the desert floor, while the days can be “hot”, the nights likely will require the use of a sleeping bag that goes to at least 0° C/32° F. No worries, however, as the big camels wait patiently amongst sandy dunes and oases nearby. After a cool sunset but before bed, stargaze the star-specked sterility descent and/or chug on a spicy mint tea or local Berber stew, cooked for a couple hours over a roaring campfire, standing up in respect to Saharan nomadic Berbers. Still, with the many hotels, motels, and culinary establishments adapted for the off-season, you may agree that a warm bed and Moroccan breakfast sounds better. Each has its charms and possibilities. Besides, winter campouts are priceless in their rarity.
Practical Travel Tips
Traveling to Morocco in December is a unique experience. It is also a largely underrated option by most travel itineraries. Not only will you have the chance to encounter a sky with low clouds, omnipresent sunshine, blue-painted houses, and high contrast colors in the valleys, but you will also avoid the throngs of tourists, apart from the long Christmas weekbreak. There are a few important practical tips and recommendations for your trip that will make it easier and more enjoyable.
Packing for Morocco in December
The first question for a trip to Morocco in December is of course … what to pack? Generally temperatures can vary widely from day to night. The days will be mild to warm (around 15ºC to 20ºC, depending on whether you are on the coast, in the urban areas, or in the Sahara desert). However, you may be taken by surprise with colder temperatures at night either in the cities (around 5-9ºC but at times on the biting cold side), in the Middle Atlas mountains (near freezing) and of course in the High Atlas mountains (where there are chances of freezing temperatures and snow especially if you decide to hike to Mount Toubkal).
Light layering is the best way to go, so you can adapt your clothes as temperatures vary throughout the day. A nice wool or fleece jacket is also recommended for colder evenings and perhaps a light rain jacket, although rain is rather rare. Hats are practical as sun protection, especially the warmer wool models for early mornings and nights, while you may want to check with a scarf or pareo to be less vulnerable when the Mistral wind is blowing in from the Mediterranean. Finally, make sure to have a good pair of comfortable hiking shoes or boots in case you decide to do some trekking or walking in the wild, as going off the beaten tracks is a wonderful way to explore Morocco in wintertime.
Packing for Morocco in December
Packing for Morocco in December requires consideration of the large temperature contrasts that different areas and regions experience. The Marrakech area can be quite mild during the day, but the nights are usually quite cool and some days can be rather chilly. This makes for a good ear for a light down jacket for the evenings or other warm clothes as well as layering. If you’re heading to the Sahara, it is essential to bring a warm jacket, hat, gloves, and other insulated apparel, especially if you plan on camping overnight. If you’re planning on climbing Saharan dunes, you might want to bring a cotton scarf to protect your face from wind and sand. If you’re heading further to the southeast and/or to Morocco’s High Atlas or Middle Atlas, you might want to pack snow clothing for days in the snow, which again is the case at higher elevations when there’s plenty of snow jacket, ski pants, gloves, and all the usual things people generally use for cold weather while skiing.
When it comes to equipment for any hiking or outdoor activities, warm socks are essential as well, as are hiking boots that are waterproof, as well as trekking poles for the harder hikes. If you’re going to spend much time out hiking, you also want to bring sunglasses, especially for the High Atlas area, which tends to have dry and sunny weather at the least warm times of the year. Even so, it can also rain, although it’s not the most common weather. It’s also very likely to be wet after rains in some of the dry-stone areas of the Moroccan High Atlas. While down there, you might also prefer to wear wool socks inside your boots. The snow also means that you should take care to bring insulated snow boots if you think you might spend some time in snow in Morocco or plan on climbing Jbel Toubkal.
Travel Essentials for Winter Visits
When thinking about what you need for travel, here’s a short list of items that will make your trip easier. A portable power source is crucial as finding enough plugs for devices is not always easy. Always take at least one that will charge your phone, which can double as a flashlight since some places have no, or limited, light at night. Be careful about what you pack, because you might have to carry your bags for hours, especially if you take the train. Trains have no escalators, and stations are often crowded without much waiting space. While larger stores do have shopping bags, you won’t find a lot of free ones, so it’s always a good idea to pack a couple of reusable ones. Pharmacies in Morocco are well-stocked, and pills, medicine, and creams are not expensive. You can find ibuprofen, antihistamines, first-aid kits, and antacid medicine, and if you want or need a prescription, the pharmacist can help you out. Bringing alternative remedies will allow you to cut back on some of the medicine you take, or pull double duty for use at home and while in Morocco. Bringing copies of your prescriptions is also a good idea, as well as a small supply of any special medications you might need. For some things, most likely those that are for depression or anxiety, they will be very difficult to get in Morocco, given their stricter policy for the drugs involved. Be sure to bring enough for the duration of your visit, at least for anything you can’t photograph or use over the counter. You also will not be able to easily refill any non-prescription medications.
Activities and Experiences
Morocco offers unique perspectives in winter, whether in the bustling streets of Marrakech or gazing from the snowy summit of Toubkal. Think picturesque light and fewer crowds. Higher mountains are best for trekking because of snow cover, but if conditions allow, trekking at lower altitudes could still be a feasible option. We have ensured that all activities can safely be done in winter.
Exploring Marrakech in December is like being an extra in a movie: streets are beautifully illuminated and buzzing with excitement, shops and restaurants are adorned with beautiful decorations, while the palm trees swaying in the warm December air give a tropical touch to this Christmas scene. You’ll find: Christmas markets with stalls selling local goods, tasty desserts, Christmas trees beautifully illuminated in Yamaa el Fna; ice skating and Christmas boutiques and pavilions in Gueliz; colorful pedestrian walkways surrounded by hundreds of lights; gigantic ice castles built by local kids in Kasbah; a large Christmas tree made entirely of flowers in the exquisite Majorelle Garden. Experience this once-in-a-lifetime Christmas and New Years in Magic Marrakech!
Morocco’s deserts are always a great idea for exploration, the Saharan desert in December is often seen in movies or feeds. The chilly desert nights and forked lightning during storms in the high desert, the mellow days, and the stunning sunsets always attract visitors. Explore the Merzouga desert on colorful Googles in a traditional tacky robe, or take a small customary camel ride to savor the tranquillity over an unspoilt dune, where time has a different pace during the day, although nights of females playing together on sound slave-land are dreamt to docile and celestial while sleeping. Ride with the camels across the majestic sand dunes, or take them to distant Berber villages, where the local hospitality would be second to none.
In short, December is a fancy time of the year to experience activities in Morocco before the detestation during summer. Don’t leave or regret the ideas given above for a delightful experience!
Outdoor Adventures in December
For outdoor enthusiasts, adventures can be found across the country, from family formal hikes in the snowy mountains to rock-climbing and seasonal sports. The three highest peaks, including the nation’s top summit, can be fairly chilly in December, but those looking for 3-day treks or summit challenges should be prepared for sub-zero temperatures. Also expect thick snowfall, which can make access harder, and a mix of the tourist crowd. Guides and programs are available in Imlil, while private agencies from Marrakech run short adventure programs, including guided hikes, picks, sledding, or tree skiing. The best period in regards of weather conditions runs between December and end of February. Routes and professionalism vary widely.
In the Rif mountains, snow is a less common occurrence and hiking is usually possible. The rare snow sports opportunities are surface sledding in the area and tree skiing, especially around the ski resorts. However, no official infrastructure is put into place. Rock-climbers should head to various locations. The weather, especially in the gorge, is quite pleasant, which is why some areas are becoming popular among locals. Generally, though, the most persistent visitors are foreigners, whose seasons run from mid-March to late May for spring climbs and from early September to late November for autumn climbs. If you go with a guide, organizational work is limited.
Exploring Marrakech: A Winter Wonderland
Marrakech is undoubtedly a favorite of many travelers, and it is no surprise. Visiting in winter allows you to explore the city in perfect weather, with average temperatures in December of 12°C at night and a maximum of 19°C in the day. Sunny, even warmer days should be celebrated outdoors, but mornings and evenings can get chilly. Be sure to pack a coat, scarf or shawl! With lower tourist numbers, you will get to explore the markets without being pushed around. This vibrant city will still be bursting with colors and fragrances, and the air should be filled with the sumptuous scent of Moroccan food. Tea break time offers up hot classic mint tea, but also try to avoid missing out on all the other sweet offerings, such as a melting Moroccan pastry called gazelle horn.
A guided tour of Marrakech is a great option if it is your first time exploring this enchanting city. Having been on the travel scene for many years, you are bound to find a variety of tours to choose from. Depending on your taste, you might want to opt for a historical walking tour. Wander through the beautiful narrow streets of the Medina, passing by beautiful palaces and secret gardens, or visit the most important historical monuments, such as the Koutoubia mosque, Saadian tombs, El Badi Palace, and Majorelle Garden, one of the most loved places in the city. You might also want to consider joining a bicycle or e-bike tour covering a wider area: bike along the palm grove, the walls of Marrakech, and ride past the local life. Or if you enjoy food, there are also many food tours available that provide insight into the local cuisine. Explore the stalls at the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square while tasting local delicacies from different vendors.
Camel Trekking and Desert Experiences
While certain parts of the desert make sense to explore by motorized vehicle, the best way to really get to know this part of Morocco is by camel. Spend time on the backs of these noble creatures, and then curl up in a sand dune shelter for some amazing stargazing. Nearby Merzouga is a popular point for camel treks, generally a 90-minute ride or half a day, depending on the package.
When you adventure away from Merzouga, you will see the lives of semi-nomadic people who have become traders and guides, earning money off of the very things they sought the protection from. Beyond small villages and paths across the majestic Erg Chebbi Dunes, wander through valleys lined with palm trees, the contrasting scenery offering respite from the intensity of the sands. The backdrop has been inspiring painters and artists since times immemorial and you might come in contact with a few during your exploration.
Some riders might wish to learn a bit more and ride for a longer time. This permits travelers to discover some Berber tents or even spend a night in one. Other people might wish to partake in a different way of traveling while still being involved in the hardships of a camel caravan. For these individuals, camel trekking really is the best way to travel. Riding for several days, the camel becomes your only form of luggage. Travelers are enriched by this experience, carrying at times a dolor of water or a few grams of sugar for the witnesses of the harsh tomorrows that start in the many sand-valleys around Merzouga.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
At the beginning of most tourist’s winter, Morocco has sunny days featuring temperatures between 16C to 20C degrees without rain or snow. This is why most Southern European people visit our country during those holiday time. If you want to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve under eucalyptus trees, the tropical sun and dancing during the night, Morocco is the best place to go without hesitation. Those who relate cold weather to winter vacations while they are preparing their snowshoes to travel to ski resorts forget that in other parts of Europe, Africa and the world, it is still possible to enjoy a warm sunny atmosphere. People often ask me about what’s the best time to come to Morocco. From my own experience, when I go there, I often suffer from freezing and anesthetic depression when I come back and find myself surrounded by heavy snowfall or suffocating fog. Before going to Morocco, I used to see most tourists enjoying the sun beside the swimming pool of a sophisticated hotel in Marrakesh, being offered huge fruity beverages decorated with tiny umbrellas. I would never have thought that I could experience all this.
Some first time visitors don’t realize that Christmas and New Year’s Eve are religious dates aimed only at certain races or creeds. So December is the best month for a close encounter with people of different beliefs. Islamic people, generally poor, are glad to earn some money at this festive time of the year. It is for that reason they open their doors and welcome you inside their houses, offering tasty traditional dishes. Are these not good reasons to discover some culture different and spend some nice days in a country part of Europe? The month of December is to all effects a winter month. Snow and heavy rainfall occur, especially in the Northern part of the country, where it is also cold. However, it does not snow in the rest of the country. There are relatively few tourists during this period. Except for the end of the month which is reserved for tourists celebrating holidays, Morocco becomes deserted.
Pros and Cons of Winter Travel
With many years of experience traveling to Morocco multiple times each year, I can tell you that every month has its perks and downfalls and December is no exception. It is a time for festivals, the best surfing in the country, deliciously warm tajines, and hiking in the Atlas mountains. However, with much of the country being hot and dry for the rest of the year, this is also the coldest month and comes with rain, snow, and chilly nights. So is December a good time to visit Morocco? Let’s do a deeper dive into this winter month.
The Pros of Traveling to Morocco in December
December is nice weather in the southern regions and the best at the coast. Sunbathing, hiking, and enjoying the beach at the hot sandy beaches is recommended. Although the first half of the month can still be rainy in most of the coastal cities, the showers are generally brief, and the rest of each day is sunny. Further south in Agadir and beyond, the warmth is even more consistent, but be warned if you aim to take a holiday beach in Western Saharan! Winds can be strong in Essaouira.
December is also the ideal month for surf lovers. From Taghazout, all the way down to Dakhla, amazing waves of the Atlantic Ocean are at their best. With no summer wind, this is relatively the best winter season for non-expert surfers, as the waves are smaller, the beaches cleaner, and the place less crowded. Surfing, but not only! The beach cities are at their prime this month, welcoming autumnal tourists to enjoy the best temperatures. So, if you can, please take two crazily long sweet weeks off from work! What better place to spend them than on a rooftop terrace with the sand and the ocean in sight?
Comparing December to Other Months
How does a visit in December compare to other times of year? First of all, it depends on where you are going! From northern areas to the south of Morocco, the tourist experience can be vastly different.
In the north of the country, coastal towns are generally poorly equipped for winter weather and closure of amenities is common. The regions of Tangier and Assilah feature rainy, wind-swept days and strong currents that make sailing or swimming unviable activities. Though some tourists are notoriously obsessed with the spectacular sun-drenched light of winter’s sub-tropic latitudes, the light in Morocco is variable during the winter months with few if any clear days. Optimistic tourists might catch a few bright highlights, potentials for brightly colored sunsets do abound, but for the most part, dull and cloudy days are to be expected. The days begin and end at odd hours. If you are a hard-core white-water lover heading to the north, be prepared for massive waves and limited access to some areas. If you’re a serious surfer, you may get lucky and hit pay dirt, but surf conditions on most days will be raunchy. On the plus side, it can be thrilling to stroll the deserted beach and have the beautiful Blue Caves to yourself with time to savor your adventure.
In the interior and the southern part of Morocco, you will experience a different travel potential. In the High Atlas, skiers are happy with abundant snow while equally happy trekkers explore the gardens, trees, and happiness of winter in the valleys. What about other nearby valleys with high passes? The flatlands around Marrakech in winter are a dazzling carpet of agricultural green dotted with fields of purple carnation or fields of white rose. It is a beautiful time to travel between the mountain air and the flatland colors. Ideal walking!
Packing for Morocco in December: Weather Tips
Truth be told, Morocco is one of those countries that constantly worries me when it comes to packing for a trip. There are so many variables to think of! Not only does Morocco have an incredibly diverse geography and a long Atlantic coast (which means the weather often changes depending on where you are in the country), but my favorite months to visit are both autumnal and mid-winter. Regardless of if you visit in mid-spring or late summer, Morocco will always surprise you with the ambiance vibes of your days.
Spoiler alert: Here’s the good news! If you visit Morocco in December, you should track the weather at your specific destination, but you should prepare for chilly but bearable weather during most of the days. And then, if you are in northern Morocco during the evening and night, there’s when you’re likely to use your thermals and layers the most.
That being said, let’s talk about packing to Morocco in December! Depending on which part of Morocco you are visiting, you will need slightly different pieces. For Morocco coast and/or Southern Morocco, you can get away with the bare minimum and pretty western fashionable outfits (but not too short!). However, if you are traveling with Moroccan Berber family, it’s a different story! What to wear in Morocco in December? Layers and thermal (especially during chilly evenings!). Layers and layers! It depends, of course. But if you’re going anywhere but down to the giant Moroccan dunes, it is highly unlikely you will be too hot.
The Magic of Morocco in Winter
Morocco is an intriguing destination at all times of the year. If you come here in summer, you need to deal with the burning heat, especially in the interior of the country, which can make your visit less enjoyable. But in winter, the weather is much kinder. Besides sunshine and blue skies, your reward for coming to Morocco in winter are, especially in the mountains, the snow-covered peaks that create a stunning contrast with the ochre color of the earth and the blue of the sky. And in winter, you also have the advantage that most tourist sites and cities have fewer tourists and can be enjoyed in relative calm. It’s not because people come from other countries in winter that Moroccans hibernate, on the contrary. The souks in the cities and those in the villages are very lively, the roads are alive with men, women, and children going to one village or another to celebrate the family holiday of Eid al-Adha, the dry days so that the ram is sacrificed is the special moment. An extraordinary moment that ensures that beyond moments like Eid al-Adha where Moroccans are at the center of the events, you can meet them on the roads and in the souks with ease and that often in a very pleasant way. The colors of the mountains and the traditions of the Berbers in winter that you discover in the souks are more colorful and more authentic than in summer. Indeed, in summer, tourists often buy during the high tourist season, the products of the country at the souvenir prices. During the winter season, after the major holidays of Eid al-Adha and the festival of almonds in the valley of Ait Bougmez, you can discover the souks in full preparation for the major holidays of the Berbers, like the festival of charms in the valley of Ait Bougmez.
Marrakech to the Mountains: December Weather Guide
Marrakech is the perfect jumping off point to explore Morocco in December, with an appealing range of things to do and near-perfect weather. Nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, the city and surrounding landscape experiences a mild climate compared to the rest of the country. With daytime highs of around 18°C in December, Marrakech’s daytime temperatures are pleasant, but come night, temperatures will feel the cool, crisp bite of winter as they drop to around 7°C. The days are short too, with only around 7 hours of sunshine, so you should make the most of daylight savings to experience all Marrakech has to offer.
The only downside to Marrakech in December is the rain. Early winter is the wettest part of the year so, while it’s unlikely that you’ll get drenched, you should pack an umbrella just in case – you’ll also want to take a warm jacket or scarf for late-night strolls through the bustling medina. Leaving behind the weave of markets, the bright lights will illuminate the vivid skyline of snow-capped peaks beyond the red city walls. Many people decide to take a day or two out of their itinerary to visit the mountains in December; the snow is the reason why. Picturesquely framed against the Saharan backdrop, the Atlas Mountains look beautiful dusted with snow, while creamy powder glistens under the sun in the high valleys and directly on the slopes during the days. Picturesque: Yup, picturesquely framed against a Saharan backdrop, the Atlas Mountains look beautiful dusted with snow.
This said, mountain weather can be tricky in December – it is prone to sudden changes and icy winds. Demanding a more wintery wardrobe, daytime temperatures average just under 10°C at Imlil and Oukaimeden and can tumble below freezing at night. It also rains in the valleys a lot – prepare for sleet in Oukaimeden and (on average) almost a week of unsettled weather at Imlil, either side of Christmas. Snow does settle too, and sometimes. Lower down, daytime temperatures average around 3°C to Oukaimeden, but can tumble below freezing at night.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
Morocco in December is rad. If you prefer fewer crowds, a lack of tourists, cooler temperatures, and fewer long days of scorching heat, then you should absolutely visit Morocco in December. There are very few people in the country this time of year compared to other months, especially in the tourist areas of Marrakech. In addition, Morocco in December can bring about seasonal changes that you may be missing out on if you’re only visiting while it’s too warm! That’s because this time of year is the low season for tourism! For this reason, it is not uncommon to find deals on the best riads and luxury hotels in Morocco.
However, there’s a downside to traveling to Morocco in December; the mountainous regions can be cold (and even snowy!) and this cold weather can deter you from wanting to hike the mountains and explore the Sahara desert. Many mountain lodges, including those that are hosting the coveted snowshoeing trips into the mountains, will have shut their doors due to the lack of tourists wanting to hike them (especially as the weather grows colder as December leads in January) but there are still regions and mountains in Morocco that are wonderful to explore! For that reason, it is best to make sure that you plan a much longer trip in December.
Whether you’re looking to see where these seasonal festivals are located, visit the desert in Morocco, ski the gorgeously beautiful mountains of Morocco, or just explore Marrakeck; you really will hardly be able to resist!
December in the Desert: Cool Days & Campfire Nights
Morocco’s famous dunes are most popular in the summer when visitors flock to the desert to enjoy the heat and the shallow, warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. But what about winter? While it may sound crazy to escape winter by abandoning the temperature drop of the mountains in exchange for that of the Sahara, it is a unique experience.
December in the Desert: Cool Days & Campfire Nights
If I wanted to use just three words to describe Morocco in December, I would say “cool days, cold nights.” The temperature drops throughout the country, but especially inland and in the mountains. In the coastal areas, the temperature is milder, but it rains frequently. In the desert, the contrast is extreme. That is, while we have days of intense sunshine and temperatures that reach 20 – 25ºC (except at night), the nights are icy with temperatures below zero.
In other words, when you decide to visit the desert in December, you have to be prepared for both situations. Also for the curious contrast of having to wear summer clothes at noon and winter clothes at night. However, we should not let other factors associated with the coolness of December in the desert – those that push us to stay at home counting the days until summer – keep us away from the Saharan dunes. I speak of both the enviable tranquility that reigned in the Sahara in December and the surprise that all the locals have for you when you appear in the camp in the middle of the desert – with those little shoes, shorts, and tank tops for the hot days.
Winter Wanderlust: Explore Morocco in December
Morocco is not the first country that springs to mind when considering a winter holiday but the very winds that send the snow skimming across the Bavarian Alps laid the foundation for Morocco’s flourishing tourism industry, ushering in tourists from around the world in search of November sun. Throughout the joyous and super hot summer months, the sandy and pebble beaches attract countless tourists to the coast, transforming Morocco into a European holiday capital. Come fall and winter it is the mountains and the Saharan desert that take over, with serious nature lovers trekking from village to village through the clear and dry mountain air or exploring the silence and the enigma of the desert. December is when you truly get the best of what Morocco has to offer. The weather is still warm in the big cities with flocks of people visiting the medinas, relishing the age-old handcrafted products while the southern deserts are sunny and comfortable. Take the magical journey through the desert to the little kasbahs to see the mountains of golden sand dotted with gorgeous palm trees that are home to the Berber people of Morocco, people who truly know and understand warmth. Head up north to the northwest friendly cities of Fez and Marrakech, the decorated blue-and-white houses along with the bustling bazaars filled with skilled artisans; to the north east the ancient Roman city ruins at Volubilis; to the southeast the more visited ruins at Meknes and above it the city of Moulay Idriss; or just drift into the snow-covered mountains of the Atlas.
Atlas Chill & Sahara Still: Morocco in December
Morocco in December and Morocco in winter are inescapably synonymous with snow, located and geographically positioned as they are atop, to a greater or lesser degree, the northern part of the map of Africa, north even of most of its southern European neighbours. Thus beginning as early as mid-November and lasting as late as mid-March, the altitudinous High Atlas of Morocco are, and have been, endowed with a plastered shroud of the white stuff which quite rightly inspires reverence, awe and deep respect.
Come to the sprawling Berber village of Imlil – an hour and a quarter from Marrakesh and the principal departing point for hikers setting off on treks into the High Atlas – and gaze upon North Africa’s highest mountain, Jebel Toubkal (4,167 m/13,671 ft), whose breathtaking view is most impeccably framed by dozens of flower gardens of white and pink almond blossom. Gazing, at such a live-dun moment of history in late December – and contrary to the soberly-intentioned recommendations of any guidebook worthy of the name – get yourself down to Imlil during and especially just after Maghrib to join the locals and imbibe an evening glass of mint tea or two, three or four at Restaurant Bellevue, high up in the village square.
More seriously, if you’re at Imlil, visit nearby Armed, Morocco’s highest village at 1,830 m (6,037 ft); it is reported to be impossibly beautiful in spring, bedecked in Brahma-like warmth and unbelievable splendour in sunshine, yet, due to the thick wintry covering of snow, Nepal-like jaw-droppingly formidable in mid-December. And then, finally, go on yearning! The Sahara, to get back to an earlier query, is no desert winter’s due for months yet.
December Days in Morocco: Sunlight & Souks
December Days in Morocco: Sunlight & Souks
The idea of Morocco in wintertime often arouses images of chilly, rainy days, wittily associated with gloomy weather in England. However, as both true locals and seasoned travelers to the country know, it would be naive to suggest that the weather in Morocco, in December and January especially, is bad. Exploring Beautiful Morocco by December’s golden sunlight is, simply put, an unforgettable experience. The breezes blowing from the Atlantics along the coast range from brisk to soft. In Fez, Marrakesh, and the valleys of the Atlas, temperatures peak at 14-20° C, and drop down to 0-7° C at night. The using of wool sweaters and jackets is so essential for night walkings. Atmospheric crisp evenings are a beautiful setting to enjoy the fire-side of Moroccan riads.
During daytime hours, bright sunlight dazzling every corner of the country delights visitors who are no longer sweating with fatigue after each step, and beatifically illuminates the red ocher of Marrakesh and the great and gray of Fez. You do not plan to sit by the fire for days of your precious holiday away from home, do you? The fresh autumn air as well as the bright blue sky invite you to breathe deeply and go out and explore. Whether you feel like walking around the souks of Fes or Marrakech, making a day hike in the nearby Atlas mountains, going on a trip to the desert, or just enjoying a cup of mint tea and people-watching in a cafe, December’s days, however short they are, will be memorable. You will soon grasp the meaning of the old Moroccan saying, “Winter is the summer of the poor.” The usually empty sunny terraces of cultural monuments are their good points that make your photographs shoot as if they were professional.
Celebrate the Holidays with Moroccan Sunshine
In need of vitamin D? Tired of coping with long months of cold, cloudy miserable Indo-European winter? Looking for an amazing and different way to celebrate Christmas? Or do you want your new year’s festivities, for a change, to take place not in a crowded eatery or a fancy bar, but on broad bright sunny outdoor tiles under the moonlight? This December, visit Morocco. Soak up its heat and sunshine and enjoy our hospitality, our food and our music. Explore our dynamic gardens, our unique cuisine, our famous colorful souks. Walk in the winding alleys of our exotic medinas. Discover the amazement of sharing our Moroccan Christmas and new year celebrations. Experience the thrill of spending some time in the company of our gracious horses trotting along the beach at sunset, or even of our dromedaries confirming their exoticness on the back of the burning sands of our magnificent Sahara dunes.
Indeed, Moroccans are polymerizers. Adopting then adapting, either graciously, or, at least, easily all the foreign traditions. Specially, the ones of the successive invaders. Christmas is no exception. Whether on fasting day or not, Christians or not, we are going to celebrate Christmas with our Christian brothers. There are several restaurants in Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir, and even The Santa country, where it is possible to enjoy delicious traditional Christmas meals. Nor will the holiday-flavored atmosphere be missing. Simply visit one of the exotic urban parks of any of the above-mentioned cities. Or one of La Nouvelle Santés or La Medina’s famous beaches nearby, while in Moulay Hassan capital.
Moroccan Winter: What It’s Really Like in December
Moroccan Winter: What It’s Really Like in December
Most people are surprised to learn that December is the winter in Morocco. High Atlas Mountains have snow; therefore, you can ski. In the desert, especially at night, it’s freezing. You may also want to wear layers in Chefchaouen, Tangier, and, actually anywhere by the sea or in the north of Morocco because it gets chilly there.
In the desert, you’ll be cozy and warm during the day, but to keep you warm at night in a desert camp, you’ll probably get some blankets. Marrakech is usually sunny and warm during the daytime, but there are also cold, cloudy days. In Fes, you can expect grey days and rain. It’s very humid there, and if it rains, puddles and mud will welcome you around the medina. It can also snow on Chefchaouen, Meknes, and Fes!
Days are short and nights are long. When you start sightseeing around 9 AM or even 10 AM, you’ll probably want to return to your Moroccan riad around 4:30 PM. Christmas lights will welcome you back home. In city centers like Marrakech, you’ll find street food stalls in Jemaa El Fna square serving traditional Moroccan food.
In December, Jemaa El Fna square is often mostly empty. You may want to book some shows and excursion tours beforehand. New Year’s Eve in Morocco is not officially celebrated. However, you’ll find some restaurants in Marrakech offering packages for this holiday. It’s not a thing in other Moroccan cities.
Mild Days, Magical Nights: Morocco in December
Morocco in December invites curious souls to discover its magical northwestern take on winter. And what a sweet transition this normally dry North African destination undergoes during the month of December. It makes it a perfect salutation for any winter traveler. From diverse yet mild to shaggy and festive and from romantic to unique, Morocco adds a twist in how winter “should” be. It is usually dry but this month, drizzle might greet you upon your arrival. The twelve chilly days of winter entitled “Aqab” as they say add a flavorful chilly twist, making it bearable to venture in the spacious souks and endless deserts. Bring your woolen shawl, pack your jumper, and wear your nice double knot into the Moroccan winter.
Throughout Morocco, days are very mild yet nights might tend to border on freezing. The big cities’ souks are all open, the weather is no longer sultry, and winter brings coolness to the north of the country without freezing it. It sure is a popular destination with school breaks for holidays, Morocco gets increasingly busy in mid-December though tourists can witness the northern Moroccan daily lives. The Moroccan channels are rather packed with locals than tourists. In the big cities of Fes, Marrakesh, and Tangier, one cannot escape the local crowd enjoying the big souks, purchasing confections, holiday pastries, and various items and nicknacks. During December Moroccan store owners get their kitschy cool window displays in various colors and odd figurines. Malls seem overly crowded even if Moroccans enjoy keeping this indoor activity, families frequent shopping centers with their kids and stores get merrily decked out for all to see. The Medinas Pereira the ones with the smallest convivial shops, add a little sparkle to their Arabic nature and enchant travelers and locals alike with their slit like passages that are still worthy of shutter clicks.
December Travels in Morocco: Weather + Inspiration
Winter in Morocco – as winter as it gets, that is – starts in December and lasts until the end of February. January is often the coldest month, while December is the month when temperatures drop suddenly from relatively warm to chilly cold. But relative cold doesn’t keep the sun from still shining. Decembers are by far one of the best months to travel around the interior of Morocco with its dry weather, no rain, and short but bright and sunny days. The coast gets cold and windy for the most part with still some sunny days here and there, while the higher Atlas mountains become winter wonderlands covered with snow. That’s when the ski resorts in Oukaimeden or Michlifen get packed with Moroccan families taking their kids winter skiing.
December isn’t the best month to travel around Morocco if you’re looking to travel to the Sahara desert as it can get really cold down south. Think of really cold nights and cold days. But, as with summer in the Sahara desert, it all depends on what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a real desert experience, going deep into the sandy dunes of the Merzouga sand dunes and spending a few days roaming around, possibly with an overnight stay in a tent? Then December is indeed probably the best month to travel around the Sahara, as there aren’t any tourists bothering your pictures. Are you looking to escape winter construction in your home country, panting and whining through crowded, sticky, sweaty days? Then avoid the Sahara. It’s all relative – but such is travel!
A Warm Winter Wonderland: Morocco in December
Amidst the bustle of winter vacations and Christmas holidays, December is a calm and beautiful time to travel around Morocco. Not only do crowds flock to cities such as Marrakesh and Casablanca during the high season of Christmas, but most people don’t consider December when they are dreaming of traveling to Morocco. As a result, December is one of the quietest months in Morocco tourism, which means prices go down and the experience is uniquely intimate.
In the north, Moroccan towns have a marvelous winter weather. Cities such as Chefchaouen, Meknes, and Fes feel cool and sometimes cold in December. Morning temperatures hang at 6° and 7°C, while daytime temperatures reach 14° and 15°C. The daily low temperatures are relatively cold in comparison to the south, and this can be discouraging for those who want to explore the outdoors. Also, Mount Toubkal usually has a beautiful layer of snow, which may deter visitors who want to escape winter in their own countries. The south feels lovely in December. Southern Moroccan towns such as Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, and Taroudant are warm and balmy, with temperatures peaking above 20°C. Nights, however, are relatively cool, with temperature lows hovering around 5° to 6°C. Residents of southern Morocco bundle up in jackets at night.
When it rains in Morocco, it usually pours. But in December, this rarely happens. In the north, it rains around four times during the month. As a result, there are fewer crowds at the most famous sights in the country as well as fewer people enjoying tea in the northern Moroccan mountains.
