Morocco in January: Weather Broken Down by Region (What to Expect in Every City)

If you’re thinking about visiting Morocco in January, good news: you’re already smarter than 90% of tourists who think Morocco is either boiling hot all year or covered in sand dunes from top to bottom. January is actually one of the most underrated months to visit cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, better prices, and landscapes that look completely different from the postcard stereotypes.

But Morocco is a big country with micro-climates everywhere. You could start your morning freezing in the mountains, eat lunch under warm sun in Marrakech, and end the night wrapped in blankets in the Sahara. So here’s your friendly, honest, “I’ve actually been there” breakdown of January weather by region plus festivals, packing tips, and what to actually expect.

Marrakech: Crisp Mornings + Golden Afternoons

Marrakech in January feels like spring pretending to be winter.

Temperature: 6°C to 19°C (43°F – 66°F)

Vibe: Warm sun during the day, chilly once the sun disappears

Crowds: Light — no pushing through the souks

You can comfortably walk around the Medina at noon in a T-shirt… then instantly regret your life choices at 6 PM when temperatures drop and you’re suddenly wrapped like a burrito inside a scarf.

Best things to do in January:

Explore Jardin Majorelle without melting

Drink mint tea on rooftop cafés (bring a jacket)

Day trips to Agafay desert (warm in the afternoon, freezing at night)

Atlas Mountains: Actual Winter — With Snow

Temperature: -2°C to 10°C (28°F – 50°F)

Vibe: Alpine, icy, fresh, and stunning

The High Atlas turns into a snowy postcard in January. If you’ve ever wanted to see Morocco look like Switzerland (minus the €20 cappuccinos), January is your moment.

Good for:

✔️ Hikers who don’t mind cold air

✔️ Cozy mountain lodges

✔️ Snow photography

Avoid if:

You’re expecting palm trees and summer vibes. The mountains do their own thing.

Sahara Desert (Merzouga): Warm Sun + Freezing Nights

January is one of the best months for a Sahara adventure — but pack like you’re going on two different trips.

Daytime: 18°C–22°C (64°F–72°F)

Night: 0°C (yes, literally)

Camel trekking is amazing this time of year because the sand isn’t scorching hot, but once the sun sets, you will question every decision that led you to a cold desert at 10 PM. Luckily, desert camps provide plenty of blankets.

Fes: Crisp, Moody & Sometimes Rainy

Temperature: 5°C–15°C (41°F–59°F)

Vibe: Cozy, cultural, occasional drizzle

January in Fes feels like European winter mixed with medieval magic. Bring a warm layer for wandering the souks and tannery viewpoints.

Chefchaouen: Blue, Beautiful & Chilly

Temperature: 4°C–14°C

Vibe: Cold mornings, photogenic afternoons

Chefchaouen stays picture-perfect all month, but the mountain air can be fresh. Warm tea + blue streets = chef’s kiss.

Essaouira & Agadir: Soft Sun + Ocean Breeze

The coast is mild, breezy, and slightly cold at night.

Temperature: 12°C–20°C

Think “hoodie weather with seagulls.”

January Festivals in Morocco

January is quieter, but two events often pop up depending on the lunar calendar:

1. Yennayer (Amazigh New Year) – January 12–14

Traditional dances, food, almond-based dishes, cultural celebrations.

If you're lucky to be in a Berber region, it’s magical.

Dakar Rally Route Passing Through Morocco (Some Years)

A fun sight if you love motorsports or just like cool photos.

What to Pack for Morocco in January

Here’s the January truth:

You need layers. Lots of them.

Bring:

✔ Long-sleeve shirts

✔ A warm jacket

✔ Scarf + beanie (for desert + mountains)

✔ Comfortable shoes

✔ Light sweaters for Marrakech

✔ Small umbrella (for Fes/Chefchaouen)

Should You Visit Morocco in January?

Absolutely. January is for travelers who want:

Great prices

Beautiful weather without the heat

Desert trips without sweating

Quiet cities

Stunning snow-covered mountains

It’s Morocco’s most underrated month cool, peaceful, and full of surprises.