Travelling to Morocco in December: Is it a good time to visit?
- Malika
- Jul 2, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 5
Travelling to Morocco in December? Discover everything you need to know about visiting Morocco in the winter, from weather to crowds and where to go.
While many people associate Morocco with its scorchingly hot summer temperatures, it might come as a surprise to know that the winter months are cool and crisp. With relatively mild temperatures across much of this North African nation, December is an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures if you don't mind "rugging up" a little.
In December, Morocco's ski season is kicking off in the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic surf is at its best, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for an active adventure.
With far fewer tourists crowding the country’s most popular attractions during this off-peak season, travelling to Morocco in December means a more relaxed experience. You can easily navigate the souks and medinas of cities like Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira, as well as score some (slightly) 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 desert regions. With minimal light pollution and the overwhelmingly clear night skies, the Saharan skies are incredible!
In this article, I'll explain exactly what you can expect if you’re travelling to Morocco in December, from weather to events and the best places to visit.
If you're focusing your travels on Marrakech, Fes, Agadir or Essaouira, click on the links to find detailed information about visiting each in December.
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Weather in Morocco in December
While much of the Northern Hemisphere is heading into the depths of winter, December in Morocco might come as a bit of a 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 temps can reach around 18°C (65°F), making it ideal for exploring the souks and marvelling at the city’s architectural wonders. With highs around 21°C (69°F) and up to six hours of sunshine per day, Marrakech enjoys relatively mild weather in December.
Keep in mind that the temperatures do drop considerably once the sun sets (and the days are relatively short), so be sure to pack warm layers.
Throughout much of Morocco, December is one of the rainier months, so be prepared for a shower or two during your stay. The Atlas Mountains, in particular, may see more substantial rainfall, especially at higher elevations. Be sure to pack appropriate wet-weather gear!
Visiting Morocco in December
Is December a popular time to visit Morocco?
The holiday season brings an influx of tourists to Morocco, particularly in the larger metropolitan areas like Marrakech and Fes. During the week between 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 and school.
With increased demand for hotels and flights, travelling to Morocco in late December means booking your accommodation and transport well in advance. Visiting Morocco in early December is a great alternative - you can expect better accommodation rates and enjoy a comparatively crowd-free experience.
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.
In 2025, the International Film Festival of Marrakech will take place from November 28 and December 6.
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 soak up the celebratory atmosphere 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 before the Christmas holiday crowds arrive. You'll have the chance to experience the 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 December temperatures due to their southerly setting.
If you're travelling to Morocco in December, the Sahara Desert and its surroundings are also wonderful for camel trekking and quad biking. During the winter months, the clear skies and reduced dust in the air create optimal conditions for stargazing and photography. Just be sure to stay at a desert camp with a campfire for the chilly nights!
The cooler temperatures of December make it an ideal time for exploring the gorges and valleys near Ouarzazate, such as Dades and Todra. I'd also recommend hitting the hiking trails around Imlil, particularly those at lower altitudes that remain largely snow-free.
That being said, 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 (or rent) 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.