While January may be one of the coldest months in Morocco, it is a far cry from the snow-blanketed landscapes experienced in much of the Northern Hemisphere. If you’re seeking respite from the harsh winter temperatures, visiting Morocco in January can provide a much-needed and welcome escape.
The cooler temperatures that Morocco enjoys in January make it an ideal time to explore the country's warmer regions, such as the sun-drenched Sahara and the coastal cities of Agadir and Essaouira. For surfers, winter heralds in bigger swells (without the summer crowds), while the medinas of Marrakech and Fes are far quieter than usual.
As January is a shoulder season in Morocco, the reduced demand can translate into good accommodation deals and easier access to transportation. With fewer tourists around, those who do visit Morocco in January may enjoy a more intimate, personalised experience, whether they are part of a small group tour or exploring the country independently on a self-drive itinerary. In my opinion, it’s a great time to travel to Morocco for those who want a really immersive journey and greater opportunities to connect with the local culture.
Read on to discover what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in January, from weather to events and where to visit.
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Weather in Morocco in January
While Morocco is known for its warm, sunny climate, the winter months do bring a noticeable chill to the air, particularly in the north of the country. January is the coldest and wettest time of year across much of the country, although this is still mild compared to most European destinations. Daytime highs will typically reach into the high teens Celsius (mid-to-high 60s Fahrenheit), making this an ideal time for city-based sightseeing.
Along the coastline, the Mediterranean and Atlantic influences help keep things relatively temperate, while in the Atlas Mountains, the mercury can plummet much lower (sometimes dipping below freezing). In the Sahara Desert, the temperatures can sometimes reach into the mid-20s Celsius (around 80°F), with bright, sunny skies that are perfect for stargazing at night. That being said, the nighttime temperatures can be chilly, so bring warm layers in preparation.
Travelling to Morocco in January
Is January a popular time to visit Morocco?
Visiting Morocco in January is an excellent choice for sightseers looking to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower accommodation prices in popular destinations like Marrakech and Fes. During this off-peak season, the country's major tourist attractions see far fewer visitors, allowing you to explore iconic sites and attractions with more breathing room. For photographers, you won’t have to compete for the best vantage point and the lack of desert dust makes it ideal for capturing clear, crisp images.
By visiting Morocco in January, not only will you be able to immerse yourself in the country’s captivating culture and stunning scenery without the chaos of peak season, but you'll also find that many sought-after accommodations offer deeply discounted rates. Whether you want to stay in a luxury riad in Fes or a beachside hotel in Essaouira, January is one of the cheapest months to visit Morocco. Keep in mind that the start of January still sees a bit of demand when Europeans are visiting on their Christmas/New Year break.
Visiting Morocco in January
Festivals and events in Morocco in January
Proclamation of Independence - January 11
On January 11, 1944, the Istiqlal Party presented a document demanding Morocco’s independence from French colonial rule. This marked a pivotal moment in the country's history, setting in motion a decades-long struggle that would eventually lead to the North African nation's liberation. Each year, Moroccans come together to commemorate their hard-won freedom, with lively celebrations erupting in cities and towns nationwide. Parades wind through the streets, complete with colourful banners, flags and other festive decorations in a vibrant display of national pride.
Yennayer: Amazigh New Year - January 12 and 13
Yennayer is observed by Amazigh people across Morocco to mark the start of the agricultural calendar. While you can find various festivities honouring this important cultural holiday in cities like Agadir, the most traditional Yennayer celebrations take place in the Middle and High Atlas mountain regions. Here, Amazigh tribes come together in joyous communal gatherings, uniting to sing, dance and revel in their hopes for a prosperous growing season ahead. Elders share stories and impart wisdom to younger generations while Amazigh dishes are prepared for elaborate feasts.
Travelling to Morocco in January
Where to go in Morocco in January
With the country experiencing relatively mild temperatures across the board, Morocco offers a wealth of travel options throughout January. While major cities like Marrakech and Tangier may see a bit more precipitation than usual, the lack of crowds makes it an ideal time for sightseeing in the medinas. For warmer conditions, head to the seaside city of Essaouira or the beach resort of Agadir. With the Atlantic swells at their peak, this is also one of the best times to hit the surf breaks of Taghazout and Imsouane.
Destinations like Ouarzazate, Dades and Todra Gorges are particularly pleasant, with relatively dry weather and an absence of dust at this time of year. It's worth noting that the further south you travel in Morocco, the milder the temperatures will be in January. For example, Chefchaouen in the north will be jacket weather while you might be in a T-shirt on the beaches of Mirleft and Sidi Ifni in the south. So if you're looking to minimise the need for heavy winter clothing, I'd recommend focusing your explorations on the southern reaches of the kingdom.
For those who want to ski in the High Atlas or Middle Atlas mountains, January offers some of the best conditions at the ski resorts of Oukaïmeden and Michlifen.
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