Thinking about visiting Morocco in winter? From December to February, the country is sunny, quiet and surprisingly varied. You can walk through Marrakech in a T-shirt, see snow on the High Atlas on the same day, and sleep under an incredible starry sky in the Sahara. This guide explains the weather by region, the best places to go, how desert tours work in the cold months, and what to pack.
Quick answer: winter is a great time to visit Morocco if you like mild sunny days and fewer crowds. Daytime temperatures in Marrakech and the desert usually reach 18 to 22 °C. However, nights are cold everywhere, especially in the Sahara and the mountains, where they can drop close to freezing. Pack warm layers, choose a comfortable desert camp, and keep one flexible day in case snow closes a mountain pass.
Morocco in Winter: Weather by Region
Morocco is a large country with mountains, desert and two coasts. As a result, winter feels very different from one region to the next. The figures below are typical averages for December to February, so the real weather can be warmer or colder.
| Region | Day | Night | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | 18 to 20 °C | 5 to 7 °C | Sunny days, cool evenings |
| Sahara (Merzouga) | 18 to 22 °C | 0 to 5 °C | Clear skies, cold nights |
| High Atlas | 5 to 12 °C | below 0 °C | Snow on the peaks and passes |
| Fes and Chefchaouen | 15 to 17 °C | 3 to 5 °C | Some rain, chilly riads |
| Essaouira and the coast | 18 to 19 °C | 8 to 10 °C | Mild but windy |
| Tangier and the north | 15 to 17 °C | 8 to 10 °C | The rainiest region in winter |
In short, the south and the desert are the sunniest, while the north gets the most rain. For the rest of the year, read our month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Morocco.
Is Morocco in Winter a Good Idea?
For many travelers, yes. Winter has clear advantages, but it also has a few limits that are worth knowing before you book.
The advantages
- Comfortable sightseeing: walking through the medinas is far easier than in the summer heat.
- Fewer crowds: outside the Christmas holidays, the main sites are calm.
- Clear skies: the desert air is dry, so sunsets and stars are spectacular.
- Snow and sun: you can see snowy peaks and palm groves in the same trip.
The limits
- Cold nights: riads and desert camps can feel chilly after dark.
- Short days: the sun sets around 6 p.m., so long drives need an early start.
- Mountain roads: snow can close passes like Tizi n’Tichka for a few hours.
- Rain in the north: Chefchaouen and Tangier can be wet.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco in Winter
Marrakech
First, Marrakech is at its best in winter. The days are warm, the light is soft, and the gardens stay green. Moreover, evenings on Jemaa el-Fna square are lively, although you will want a jacket after sunset.
The Sahara desert
Next, the desert is one of the top winter experiences. The dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga are pleasant during the day, and the night sky is incredibly clear. However, nights are cold, so a well-equipped camp makes a big difference.
The High Atlas Mountains
In addition, the High Atlas turns white in winter. You can see the snowy peaks on the drive over Tizi n’Tichka, or visit Oukaimeden, a small ski area about an hour and a half from Marrakech, when snow conditions allow.
Essaouira and the Atlantic coast
Essaouira stays mild all year. It is windy, so it is not a beach holiday in winter. Still, its medina, port and fresh grilled fish make a great day trip from Marrakech.
Fes and Chefchaouen
Fes and Chefchaouen are beautiful in winter and much quieter. On the other hand, they are colder and rainier, so bring a waterproof layer and choose a riad with heating.
Morocco in Winter, Month by Month
December
December is mild and mostly dry in the south. The first half of the month is quiet, so prices for riads and camps are often lower. However, the last two weeks are the busiest of the winter, because many Europeans spend Christmas and New Year in Marrakech or in the desert. If you travel then, book your camp and your driver several weeks in advance.
January
January is usually the coldest month. Nights in the Sahara and in the mountains can drop below zero, and snow is most likely on the Atlas passes. On the other hand, the days are often bright and clear, and the main sites are at their calmest. As a result, January is a great month for travelers who want empty medinas and dramatic snowy views.
February
February brings longer days and the first almond blossoms in the valleys of the south. The weather slowly warms up, so it is an excellent month for a desert tour. In 2027, keep in mind that Ramadan is expected to begin around 8 February, which changes opening hours in some places.
Where to Stay in Morocco in Winter
Traditional riads are beautiful, but their open courtyards can feel cold at night. Therefore, ask whether your room has heating or an air conditioner with a warm mode. In the desert, choose a camp with thick blankets, closed tents and private bathrooms with hot water. Finally, a hotel with a fireplace in the Dades Valley or the Atlas makes winter evenings much cozier.
Desert Tours in Morocco in Winter
A desert night is the highlight of most winter trips. Here is how to enjoy it comfortably.
- Choose the right camp: luxury camps have real beds, thick blankets and private bathrooms with hot water. Ask whether your tent has heating.
- Time the camel trek: sunset is earlier in winter, so you reach the dunes around 4 or 5 p.m.
- Dress in layers: a warm jacket, a hat and gloves help a lot at night and at sunrise.
- Consider two nights: a second night in a hotel facing the dunes is warmer and more comfortable.
Not sure which desert to pick? Compare Merzouga vs Zagora, or read our Merzouga desert guide.
Driving in Morocco in Winter
Most roads are open all winter. However, heavy snow can close the Tizi n’Tichka pass between Marrakech and Ouarzazate, or the Middle Atlas roads near Ifrane, usually for a few hours. Therefore, keep one flexible day in your plan, avoid driving at night, and travel with a local driver who follows road conditions every day.
Christmas, New Year and Ramadan
The Christmas and New Year holidays are the busiest weeks of the winter, especially in Marrakech and the desert camps. As a result, book early if you travel in late December. See our ideas for New Year in Morocco. In 2027, Ramadan is expected to start around 8 February and end around 8 March, so read our guide to Ramadan in Morocco 2027 if you travel in February.
What to Pack for Morocco in Winter
- A warm jacket or fleece for evenings and desert nights
- Light layers for sunny days, plus long trousers
- A hat, gloves and a scarf for the desert and the mountains
- A waterproof jacket for Fes, Chefchaouen and the north
- Comfortable walking shoes and warm socks
- Sunscreen and sunglasses, because the winter sun is still strong
For the full list, see what to pack for the Morocco desert.
Suggested Itineraries for Morocco in Winter
Winter is ideal for routes that focus on Marrakech and the south, where the sun is most reliable.
- 3 to 4 days: a desert loop such as our 4-day Merzouga tour from Marrakech.
- One way to Fes: cross the desert with our 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes.
- One week: our 8-day Morocco tour from Marrakech to Tangier covers the south, Fes and the north.
- Day trips: Essaouira, the Ourika Valley or Ait Ben Haddou from Marrakech, see our day trips.
Traveling with children? Read our tips for Morocco with kids.
Morocco in Winter FAQ
Is Morocco warm in winter?
The days are mild and sunny, usually 15 to 22 °C. However, nights are cold, especially in the desert and the mountains.
How cold is the Sahara in winter?
Days reach about 18 to 22 °C, but nights can fall to about 0 to 5 °C. Therefore, choose a well-equipped camp and bring warm clothes.
Does it snow in Morocco?
Yes. Snow falls on the High and Middle Atlas, and it can sometimes close mountain passes for a few hours.
Is December a good month to visit Morocco?
Yes, especially for Marrakech and the desert. Book early for the Christmas and New Year weeks.
Can I do a desert tour in winter?
Yes. Winter is a great season for the desert, with clear skies and pleasant days. Just pack layers for the cold nights.
Which part of Morocco is best in winter?
Marrakech, the Sahara and the south are the sunniest. The north, including Chefchaouen and Tangier, gets more rain.
Plan Your Trip to Morocco in Winter
In conclusion, Morocco in winter means warm sunny days, quiet medinas and some of the clearest desert skies of the year. With warm layers and a flexible plan, it is one of the best seasons to discover the country. Tell us your dates, and we will build a private route around the best weather.
Plan this trip: ask for a free quote, write to us on WhatsApp, or browse our Morocco tour packages.
