Morocco Weather December: What to Expect for Your Winter Visit

Morocco weather December: Weather Guide for Your Winter Trip

Planning a visit to Morocco in December offers you the charm of exploring this diverse country with the added benefit of cooler weather. Morocco weather December provides one of the best times for visiting Morocco, with mild daytime temperatures and cool evenings, making it ideal for sightseeing. The sunny North African skies and pleasant climate create a welcomed escape from the chilly European and North American winter, while the variable regional conditions add diversity to your travel experience.

From the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the vast Sahara Desert and the breezy coastal cities, December in Morocco presents a fascinating range of climates to explore. Morocco weather December can vary significantly depending on where you go, so this comprehensive guide will help you understand what to expect, how to pack, and which activities to prioritize during your winter visit to this captivating country.

What to Wear in Morocco in December

When traveling to Morocco in December, packing smartly is essential. Morocco weather December varies between cities, with Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca experiencing daytime temperatures of 55-70°F (13-21°C). It can cool down to 40-50°F (4-10°C) at night. Understanding Morocco weather December will help you prepare appropriate clothing for your trip.

Essential Clothing Items

Daytime Attire

Light long-sleeved shirts

Comfortable pants or long skirts

Comfortable walking shoes

Light scarf (also useful for visiting religious sites)

Evening Attire

Light sweaters or cardigans

Warm jacket for cooler nights

Cultural Tip: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, so modest clothing is appreciated, especially in more traditional areas. Women should cover shoulders and knees, and men should avoid very short shorts in public areas.

Weather-Specific Accessories

Rain gear: A light raincoat or compact umbrella for coastal cities

Sun protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen (the winter sun can still be strong)

Layering pieces: Versatile items for temperature shifts

Footwear: Waterproof shoes if visiting during rainy periods

Overview of Morocco Weather in December

In December, Morocco experiences a range of weather conditions due to its diverse geography. Coastal areas, inland cities, the Atlas Mountains, and desert regions each have distinct weather patterns that create a unique winter travel experience.

Temperature and Rainfall

Coastal Cities (Casablanca, Rabat): Daytime highs around 19°C, nighttime lows about 10°C, with 7 cm of rainfall across 11–12 rainy days.

Imperial Cities (Marrakech, Fez): Daytime highs near 18°C, nighttime lows around 6°C, receiving 3 cm of rain over 7–8 days.

Atlas Mountains: Daytime highs average 12°C, nighttime lows drop to 0°C, with 4 cm of rain over 6–7 days.

Sahara Desert: Daytime highs reach about 20°C, nighttime lows fall to 5°C, with only 1 cm of rain across 2–3 days.

The average temperature across Morocco during December typically ranges from 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F). Cities like Marrakech enjoy mild temperatures around 14°C during the day, though evenings can be cooler and may require warm clothing.

Rainfall varies: coastal regions are generally wetter, with Rabat and Casablanca among the rainiest, while the desert remains dry and sunny. Sunshine hours average around 6.5 hours per day, with humidity higher along the coast and lower in the desert.

Regional Weather Variation in December

Atlas Mountains

December in the Atlas Mountains offers a crisp winter feel. Temperatures range from 5°C in early mornings to 15°C during the day. Snow often caps higher peaks, creating spectacular views and opportunities for winter trekking or skiing in areas like Oukaïmeden.

Sahara Desert

The desert sees comfortable daytime temperatures of 18–22°C, making it perfect for camel trekking and sightseeing. Nights, however, can be very cold, often dropping to 5°C or lower, so warm layers are essential. Clear skies make for outstanding stargazing.

Coastal Cities

Casablanca, Essaouira, and Agadir offer mild conditions in December, with daytime highs of 16–20°C and cooler nights around 10°C. While not ideal for swimming, the weather is pleasant for beach walks, fresh seafood, and exploring historic ports.

Imperial Cities

Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, and Meknes have daytime highs of 16–19°C and cooler evenings around 7–10°C. The comfortable weather makes it easy to explore medinas, palaces, souks, and gardens without the intense summer heat.

5 Best Activities for Morocco in December

Sahara Desert – Enjoy camel trekking, sandboarding, and stargazing in cool desert conditions.

Atlas Mountains – Hike scenic trails or experience snow-capped peaks and ski resorts.

Imperial Cities – Explore medinas, souks, palaces, and cultural landmarks in comfortable weather.

Coastal Experiences – Surfing and windsurfing thrive in Essaouira and Taghazout, while coastal walks and seafood dining are delightful.

Cultural & Wellness – Experience traditional hammams, cooking classes, and December festivals such as the Marrakech International Film Festival.

Travel Tips for Morocco in December

Accommodation Tips

Book riads or hotels with heating, as traditional riads may not always have central heating.

In the Sahara, choose camps with proper bedding for cold nights.

In the mountains, check road conditions before traveling.

Transportation Advice

Guided tours can help with logistics during unpredictable weather.

Allow flexibility for rain-related delays in northern and coastal regions.

Cultural Insights

December is lively with festivals and traditions. The Marrakech International Film Festival usually takes place early in the month, attracting international visitors. Visiting hammams, exploring souks, and sampling hearty Moroccan dishes like tagine and harira are especially enjoyable in the cooler weather.

Final Thoughts

Morocco in December is a perfect blend of mild temperatures, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. From snow in the Atlas Mountains to sunny desert days and refreshing coastal breezes, December offers a little of everything. Lower tourist numbers also make it a more relaxed and affordable time to visit.

With its winter sunshine, cultural festivals, and welcoming atmosphere, Morocco in December is a rewarding destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.