While many people associate Morocco with its scorching summer temperatures, the cool, crisp weather of the winter months actually makes it an ideal time to visit. With relatively mild temperatures across much of this North African nation, it’s perfect for both sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
With far fewer tourists crowding the country’s popular sites and attractions during this off-peak season, travelling to Morocco in December means a more peaceful experience. You can more easily navigate the bustling markets and medinas of cities like Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira, as well as score some discounted accommodation deals.
Beyond the temperate weather and budget-friendly nature of a Moroccan holiday in December, this time of year also provides some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country's remote desert regions. With minimal light pollution and clear night skies, the Sahara offers an unparalleled canvas for observing celestial displays. With Morocco's ski season kicking off in the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic surf at its best, there are plenty of opportunities for an active adventure.
Read on to discover what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in December, from weather to events and where to visit.
Travelling to Morocco in December
Weather in Morocco in December
While much of the Northern Hemisphere is heading into the depths of winter, December in Morocco comes as a delightful surprise. Compared to the snow-blanketed landscapes found across Europe and North America, Morocco's winter climate is much more temperate.
In Fes, the average daytime temperature hovers around a comfortable 18°C (65°F), making it ideal for exploring the bustling medina, shopping in the souks and marvelling at the city’s architectural wonders. With average highs around 21°C (69°F) and up to six hours of sunshine per day, Marrakech enjoys relatively mild weather in December. However, as the sun dips below the horizon, the temperatures do drop, so be sure to pack warm layers.
Throughout much of Morocco, December is one of the rainier months, so be prepared for the possibility of encountering a shower or two during your stay. But these passing rainstorms are a welcome sight and a chance to experience Morocco's landscapes in a different light. The Atlas Mountains, in particular, may see more substantial precipitation, especially at higher elevations, so be sure to pack appropriate wet-weather gear.
Visiting Morocco in December
Is December a popular time to visit Morocco?
The holiday season brings a significant influx of tourists to Morocco, particularly in the larger metropolitan areas like Marrakech and Fes. During the week surrounding Christmas and New Year's, these cities see a dramatic spike in visitor numbers as travellers from across the globe are taking advantage of their time off work. With increased demand comes higher hotel/riad and flight prices, so be sure to book your accommodation and transport well in advance.
If you’re able to visit Morocco a bit earlier in the month, you can take advantage of "off-season" rates and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Early December provides a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture without the crowds and maybe even splurge on a luxurious riad stay at a discounted rate.
Travelling to Morocco in December
Festivals and events in Morocco in December
International Film Festival of Marrakech
Typically held from the end of November through the first week of December, this cinematic festival draws filmmakers, actors and movie enthusiasts from across the globe to Morocco's cultural capital. The streets and squares of Marrakech come alive as directors debut their latest works, with screenings taking place inside theatres and open-air venues throughout the city. Beyond the film screenings, the festival also features engaging panel discussions, master classes and networking events that provide invaluable opportunities for filmmakers to connect, collaborate and share their creative visions.
Tan Tan Moussem
Held in southwest Morocco, the Tan Tan Moussem brings together over 30 indigenous tribes from across southern Morocco and the broader Northwest African region. This legendary gathering has been taking place since 1963 and is a captivating celebration of nomadic cultures. For several days each December, the dusty desert landscape around Tan Tan is transformed into a hub of activity, as thousands of tribespeople erect a sprawling encampment of nearly 800 tents. In addition to camel races, musical performances and cultural demonstrations, it’s an opportunity for tribes to swap goods and reconnect.
New Year’s Eve
While New Year's Eve celebrations in Morocco may be subdued in smaller towns and villages, the country's larger cities often come alive with festivities to welcome in the new year. In Marrakech, for instance, locals and tourists alike gather in the streets to partake in the revelry or attend special New Year’s Eve dinners at upscale hotels and restaurants. Further north, the seaside city of Casablanca hosts lavish parties at oceanfront resorts and nightclubs, with live DJ sets to herald in the new year.
Visiting Morocco in December
Where to go in Morocco in December
Early December is a wonderful time to visit the storied city of Marrakech, not only because of the reduced crowds. You'll have the chance to experience the renowned Marrakech International Film Festival, which draws cinephiles from around the world to celebrate the art of filmmaking. For a quieter alternative, head to the “Mini Marrakech” of Taroudant with its ochre-hued walls, bustling souks and artisanal crafts. It can easily be combined with a visit to the coastal city of Agadir or the beaches of Mirleft and Sidi Ifni, which enjoy mild temperatures due to their southerly setting.
The Sahara Desert truly shines in December, offering a serene and awe-inspiring backdrop for adventurous travellers. During the winter months, the clear skies and reduced dust in the air create optimal conditions for stargazing and photography. The cooler temperatures also make it an ideal time for exploring the gorges and valleys near Ouarzazate, as well as the hiking trails around Imlil. It’s important to keep in mind that only highly experienced hikers who are properly prepared (and with a knowledgeable local guide) should tackle the summit of Mount Toubkal at this time of year due to snow coverage.
December marks the start of the ski season in Morocco, with resorts in the High Atlas and Middle Atlas mountains opening up. It’s also the perfect time to surf, with the winter swells offering up some incredible waves along Morocco’s Atlantic coastline. Just be sure to pack a warm wetsuit, with water temperatures dropping to around 18°C (64°F) around Taghazout.
If you’re planning a self-driving holiday to Morocco in December, I’d recommend focusing your travels on the warm south of the country. This one-week itinerary from Marrakech to Agadir ticks off a lot of sites, including the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou. If you have more time, consider this two-week itinerary from Essaouira, which includes a scenic drive through the little-visited Drâa Valley.
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