Thinking about visiting Morocco in December? It is a sunny escape from the European winter, with blue skies in Marrakech, snow on the Atlas peaks and crisp, starry nights in the Sahara. It is also the month of Christmas and New Year, when many travelers celebrate in the desert. This guide explains the weather, what to do, what to pack and which tours fit best.
Quick answer: December is great for sunshine and the desert, but nights are cold. Bring warm layers and book early for the holidays. Our Christmas and New Year desert tour from Marrakech and Christmas tour from Fes can place your desert night on 24 or 31 December.
Weather in Morocco in December by Region
| Book | Daytime | Night and notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | About 18 to 20 °C, sunny | About 5 to 7 °C |
| Sahara (Merzouga) | About 17 to 20 °C | About 0 to 5 °C, very clear skies |
| Fes | About 15 to 17 °C | Cold nights, some rain |
| Atlas Mountains | Cold | Snow on the peaks and sometimes on the passes |
| North (Chefchaouen, Tangier) | About 15 to 17 °C | Rainy and green |
| Coast (Essaouira) | About 18 to 19 °C | Windy, mild |
Typical values; weather changes from year to year. Read our guide to Morocco in winter.
What to Do in Morocco in December
Christmas and New Year in the Sahara
Spend Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve in a camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes. Read Christmas in Morocco and New Year in the Sahara desert.
Snow on the Atlas
The High Atlas and Middle Atlas are often white with snow, a beautiful contrast with the palm groves and dunes.
Sunny cities
Marrakech is sunny and lively, perfect for the souks and gardens. Combine cities on a Morocco imperial cities tour.
Day trips
Essaouira and the Atlas valleys are great escapes. See our day trips from Marrakech.
Best Tours for December
For the holidays
The Christmas tour from Marrakech or the Christmas tour from Fes.
Early December
Prices are lower before 20 December: try the 3 day tour from Marrakech or the 3 day tour from Fes.
More comfort
Choose a luxury desert camp in Merzouga with a private bathroom and warm bedding.
What to Pack for December
- A warm jacket, a fleece, a hat and gloves for nights and mountains
- Layers for sunny days
- A light rain jacket for the north
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
See our list of what to pack for the Morocco desert.
Tips for December
- Book early for 20 December to 2 January.
- Allow extra time: snow can briefly slow the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
- Choose a warm camp with a private bathroom.
Prefer milder weather? Read Morocco in November.
Morocco in December FAQ
Is December a good time to visit Morocco?
Yes, especially for sunshine and the desert, but nights are cold, so pack warm layers.
How cold is the Sahara in December?
Days are pleasant, but nights can drop to about 0 to 5 °C.
Does it snow in Morocco in December?
Yes, on the High Atlas and Middle Atlas, and sometimes on the mountain passes.
Can I spend Christmas in the Sahara?
Yes. Our Christmas tours can place your desert night on 24 December.
Is December busy in Morocco?
The last two weeks are busy because of Christmas and New Year, so book early.
Plan Your Trip to Morocco in December
In short, Morocco in December offers sunshine, snowy mountains and magical desert nights. Tell us your dates and we will plan your private tour.
Plan your trip: ask for a free quote, write to us on WhatsApp, or book the Christmas tour from Marrakech.
