Weather in Morocco in December
Weather in Morocco in December: Temperatures, Rain, Snow and Packing Tips
December is a good month to visit Morocco if you want comfortable daytime weather for sightseeing without the intense summer heat. But Morocco does not have one December climate. Marrakech, Agadir, Fes, the Atlantic coast, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara can feel very different on the same day.
In general, expect mild afternoons, cooler mornings and evenings, and much colder nights in the desert and mountains. Morocco’s official tourism office describes the country as having several different climate influences because of its Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, Atlas and Rif Mountains, and southern desert regions.
For families, December can be particularly comfortable for walking through medinas, visiting historical sites, exploring Marrakech, and spending time outdoors. The main thing to plan for is the temperature change between daytime and nighttime.
Quick Takeaways
- Morocco is generally mild during the day in December, but nights can be cold inland, in the mountains, and in the Sahara.
- Marrakech usually has comfortable winter weather for sightseeing, although evenings are chilly.
- Agadir and the southern Atlantic coast are among the warmest choices if daytime warmth is your priority.
- Fes and other inland cities can feel considerably colder than Marrakech after sunset.
- The Sahara can be pleasant during the day but very cold at night, so warm layers are essential for desert camping.
- December is suitable for family sightseeing, hiking at lower elevations, and desert trips if your itinerary accounts for shorter daylight hours.
- Christmas and New Year can be busier and more expensive than the first part of December.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
Yes. December can be an excellent time to visit Morocco, especially if your priority is sightseeing rather than swimming.
The biggest advantage is the daytime temperature. You can explore a medina, walk around a palace or garden, visit a market, or take a day trip without dealing with the extreme heat that can affect summer travel.
The important qualification is that Morocco becomes much colder after sunset. A sunny afternoon in Marrakech can feel completely different from the same evening in a traditional riad,Morocco’s official tourism information describes the country as having mild coastal areas, warmer southern regions, and cooler conditions at altitude and at night.Â
For families, that makes December a good month for a balanced itinerary. You can plan outdoor sightseeing during the warmer part of the day and return to your accommodation before temperatures fall.
December is less suitable if your main goal is a traditional beach holiday with warm ocean water. The southern Atlantic coast can be pleasant for walking and sitting outdoors, but ocean temperatures are not comparable with summer.
Not sure when to go? Our month-by-month guides break down Morocco weather in every season, from cool winter mornings to hot summer afternoons. Choose your month to find the best regions, realistic temperatures, and practical tips for traveling with children.
- Pack smart: Morocco Weather in January, Crisp Mornings and Warm Afternoons
- Travel smart: Morocco Weather in February, What to Expect Before You Book
- Spring forward: Morocco Weather in March, Mild Days for Easy Family Sightseeing
- Book confidently: Morocco Weather in April, Blooming Landscapes and Comfortable Temperatures
- Enjoy more: Morocco Weather in May, Long Sunny Days for Kids and Parents
- Beat summer: Morocco Weather in June, Coastal Escapes and Rising Temperatures
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What Is the Weather Like in Morocco in December?
The weather in Morocco in December is generally mild during the day and cool to cold at night.
There is a major difference between Morocco’s regions.
Marrakech and much of the south can have pleasant sunny afternoons. The Atlantic coast is milder but can be windier and wetter. Northern Morocco receives more winter rain. Fes can feel cold after sunset, while the Atlas Mountains can experience snow and freezing conditions.
The Moroccan National Tourist Office describes Morocco as a country with significant regional climate variation because of its geography. Coastal areas benefit from Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, while inland and mountainous regions have more continental conditions.
If you are visiting several regions, think in terms of layers rather than one winter outfit.
Morocco Temperature in December
There is no single average temperature that accurately describes the whole country.
For a practical trip, these broad December ranges are more useful:
| Destination | Typical December daytime conditions | What evenings feel like |
|---|---|---|
| Agadir | Around 20 to 24°C | Mild to cool |
| Marrakech | Around 12 to 20°C depending on conditions | Cool |
| Casablanca | Around 16 to 20°C | Cool |
| Rabat | Around 16 to 20°C | Cool |
| Tangier | Around 16 to 20°C | Cool and sometimes windy |
| Fes | Around 12 to 18°C | Cold |
| Sahara | Mild to warm during the day | Very cold |
| Atlas Mountains | Much colder, especially at altitude | Cold to freezing |
These are useful planning ranges rather than guaranteed daily temperatures. The Moroccan National Tourist Office currently gives winter guidance of around 20 to 24°C for Agadir, 16 to 20°C for Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier, and 12 to 18°C for Marrakech and Fes during December and January conditions.Â
The biggest mistake is assuming that a 20°C afternoon means you will be comfortable in the same clothes at 8 p.m.
Marrakech Weather in December
Marrakech is one of the easiest Moroccan cities to visit in December for sightseeing.
Days can be sunny and comfortable, making it a good time to explore the medina, Jemaa el Fna, gardens, palaces and other outdoor attractions. The official tourism office highlights Marrakech’s medina, Jemaa el Fna, Majorelle Garden, Bahia area and Menara as major attractions.Â
Evenings are different.
Once the sun disappears, temperatures fall quickly. Families staying in traditional riads should pay attention to heating when choosing accommodation because a beautiful historic building is not necessarily warm at night.
For children and grandparents, this matters more than the afternoon temperature.
A good December day in Marrakech can look like this:
Morning: jacket or fleece
Late morning: lighter layers
Afternoon: comfortable sightseeing clothes
After sunset: jacket or warmer coat
For families, Marrakech is particularly convenient because you can build a flexible schedule around the weather.
Is Marrakech Warm in December?
Marrakech is warm compared with much of Europe, Canada and the northern United States, but it is not a hot summer destination in December.
A sunny afternoon can feel pleasantly warm, especially when sitting in direct sunlight. However, shade and evenings are noticeably cooler.
This is why the answer to “is Marrakech warm in December?” depends on what you mean by warm.
- For sightseeing, yes.
- For sitting beside an unheated swimming pool all afternoon, not necessarily.
- For wearing summer clothes at night, no.
- For families who want to walk around the city without extreme heat, December can be very comfortable.
Agadir Weather in December
If warmth is the main priority, Agadir deserves serious consideration.
The Moroccan National Tourist Office describes Agadir as Morocco’s main seaside resort and notes its mild climate and long periods of sunshine. It also identifies Taghazout and other southern Atlantic destinations as places with a favorable coastal climate.
Official Moroccan tourism information gives Agadir winter daytime conditions around 20 to 24°C.Â
Agadir is therefore a stronger choice than Marrakech if your priority is winter sun and a mild coastal environment.
It also has a different feel from Marrakech. Agadir is more open and modern, with a long seafront and beach focused activities. Marrakech offers much more concentrated historic and cultural sightseeing.
For families, the choice depends on what you want from the trip.
Choose Agadir if you prioritize:
- Mild coastal weather
- Beach walks
- Relaxed days
- A seaside environment
- Winter sun
Choose Marrakech if you prioritize:
- Medinas
- Palaces and gardens
- Markets
- Cultural sightseeing
- Day trips into the Atlas region
You can also combine the two if your trip is long enough.
What About Fes, Rabat, Casablanca and Tangier?
The northern and Atlantic cities can feel cooler than Marrakech, particularly when there is wind or rain.
Casablanca and Rabat generally have mild winter conditions, while Tangier is more exposed to Atlantic and Mediterranean weather systems.
Fes is inland and can feel considerably colder at night.
This regional difference is important for families because children and older travelers may notice cold evenings more than adults expecting Mediterranean winter weather.
If your itinerary includes Fes, bring a warmer layer even if the weather forecast for Marrakech looks mild.
The same applies to Chefchaouen and northern Morocco.
Is Morocco Cold in December?
Parts of Morocco can definitely be cold in December.
- The country is not uniformly cold, but you should expect cold conditions in several situations.
- The first is nighttime in inland cities.
- The second is the Atlas Mountains.
- The third is the Sahara after sunset.
- The fourth is accommodation that does not retain heat well.
This last point is easy to overlook.
A traditional riad may have beautiful tiled floors, open courtyards and thick walls. Those features can make the building feel chilly during winter evenings even when the daytime weather was pleasant.
When booking accommodation for December, ask specifically about heating rather than assuming that every room will be warm.
Morocco Weather at Christmas
Christmas in Morocco generally brings mild daytime weather in the major tourist destinations, with cooler evenings.
Agadir is one of the warmer options, while Marrakech provides a good balance between winter sunshine and cultural sightseeing. The Atlas Mountains and higher elevations can be considerably colder.
Christmas week is also different from early December from a planning perspective.
Hotels and popular accommodations can become busier around Christmas and New Year. If you are traveling as a family and need connecting rooms, family rooms or a particular riad, booking earlier gives you more choice.
Morocco is a Muslim majority country, so Christmas is not celebrated in the same way as in traditionally Christian countries. However, hotels and tourist areas may offer Christmas meals, decorations or seasonal programs for international visitors.
The weather itself is one of the reasons Morocco attracts winter travelers.
Where Is Warmest in Morocco in December?
If you are looking specifically for the warmest parts of Morocco in December, look toward the south and the southern Atlantic coast.
Agadir is one of the easiest choices for travelers who want mild winter weather without going far into the desert. Taghazout has a similar southern coastal climate. The official tourism office specifically highlights Agadir and Taghazout as southern Atlantic destinations with mild conditions.Â
Further south, areas around the pre Saharan regions can have warm sunny afternoons but much colder nights.
That creates an important distinction.
If you want the warmest overall experience, choose a coastal destination such as Agadir.
If you want warm daytime weather combined with desert scenery, a southern itinerary can work.
If you want the best combination of culture, sightseeing and comfortable winter walking, Marrakech is often the more practical choice.
Can You Sunbathe in Morocco in December?
Yes, it is possible to sit in the sun in Morocco in December, particularly in southern destinations such as Agadir.
The key word is sun rather than guaranteed heat.
A sunny afternoon can be pleasant enough for sitting outside, but conditions change quickly once clouds, wind or evening temperatures arrive.
Swimming is another question.
Many hotel and riad pools are not heated, so do not assume that because the air temperature is comfortable, children will want to swim.
If swimming is important to your family, check whether the accommodation has a heated pool before booking.
What to Wear in Morocco in December
The best strategy is layers.
For Marrakech and other cities, pack:
- Long trousers
- T shirts
- Lightweight sweaters
- A fleece or hoodie
- A medium weight jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A rain jacket for northern and coastal destinations
- Warm sleepwear
For families traveling to the Sahara or mountains, add:
- A warmer insulated jacket
- Thermal base layers
- Warm socks
- A hat or beanie
- Gloves
- Closed walking shoes
Children should have easy layers that can be removed during sunny afternoons and added again when temperatures fall.
Grandparents may also appreciate an extra warm layer for evenings and early mornings.
Do not pack exclusively for the daytime forecast.
Your accommodation and destination elevation can make nighttime conditions much colder than expected.
Morocco in December With Kids
December can work very well for families because the daytime weather is usually more comfortable for sightseeing than the hottest months.
The main advantage is that you can spend several hours outside without planning every activity around avoiding extreme heat.
For younger children, keep the daily schedule flexible.
One major activity in the morning, a relaxed lunch, some downtime and another short activity in the afternoon is often more realistic than trying to visit several major attractions in one day.
This becomes especially important in Marrakech, where walking through the medina can involve uneven surfaces, crowds, stairs and long periods on foot.
Families with toddlers should consider stroller access carefully. Some narrow medina streets are difficult with a stroller, so a lightweight carrier can be useful for certain parts of the day.
Teenagers may enjoy December because the cooler weather makes walking, photography, food experiences and outdoor excursions more comfortable.
For grandparents, avoid building an itinerary with long daily drives followed immediately by extensive walking.
Wondering which month suits your family best? Climate varies a lot across the country, with mild coastlines, hot desert interiors and cool mountain air. Pick a month below for a clear picture of daytime heat, evening chill, rainfall and what to bring, so you can plan comfortable days with your children.
- Handle heat: Morocco Weather in July, Smart Ways to Keep Kids Comfortable
- Stay comfortable: Morocco Weather in August, Where to Go When It’s Hot
- Relax more: Morocco Weather in September, Easing Heat and Golden Family Days
- Choose wisely: Morocco Weather in October, Pleasant Days for Every Type of Trip
- Travel gently: Morocco Weather in November, Cooler Days and a Calm Family Pace
- Warm up: Morocco Weather in December, Winter Sun and Festive Family Moments
What Can Families Do in Morocco in December?
December is a good month for a mixture of cultural and outdoor activities.
In Marrakech, families can visit gardens, palaces, markets and the medina. The city also offers horse carriage rides and other activities that can break up long walking days.
A day trip into the Atlas foothills can provide a complete change of scenery.
Families can also consider:
- Cooking experiences
- Short walks in the Atlas foothills
- Gardens
- Cultural visits
- Horse carriage rides
- Desert excursions
- Camel experiences
- Photography
- Coastal walks
- Family friendly museum visits
The right choice depends on the ages of the children and how much driving your family is comfortable with.
Hiking in Morocco in December
December can be a good month for lower elevation hiking, but conditions change quickly as you gain altitude.
The Atlas Mountains can receive snow in winter, and high altitude routes require proper preparation.
A gentle walk around the foothills is very different from attempting a high mountain summit.
Families should not assume that because a hiking route is available in summer it will have the same conditions in December.
For a family day trip, lower elevation routes around the Atlas foothills can be more appropriate than high altitude trekking.
If your family wants a serious mountain hike, check the route, weather, snow conditions, guide requirements and children’s suitability before committing.
What Is the Weather Like in the Sahara in December?
The Sahara is one of the biggest surprises for first time visitors.
- During the daytime, the desert can be sunny and pleasant.
- At night, it can become extremely cold.
- This is particularly important if you are staying overnight in a desert camp.
- A family arriving in the Sahara in a light jacket because the afternoon was warm may be completely unprepared for the evening.
- For a December desert night, pack genuine winter clothing.
- A warm jacket, thermal layer, warm socks, hat and gloves are useful.
When choosing a desert camp, families should also ask what type of accommodation and heating arrangements are provided.
Do not judge a camp only by photographs taken during warm weather.
Rain in Morocco in December
December is part of Morocco’s wetter season in many northern and coastal areas, although rainfall varies significantly by location.
The north and Atlantic coast generally have more opportunities for rain than the southern interior.
That does not mean a December trip will be rainy every day.
A rainy morning can also be followed by a clear afternoon.
The Moroccan National Tourist Office emphasizes the country’s strong regional differences in climate, with coastal, inland, mountain and desert areas behaving differently.
If your family is traveling through several regions, bring at least one waterproof outer layer rather than relying only on warm clothing.
Morocco in December: Short Days and Trip Planning
December has shorter daylight hours than summer.
- That matters when planning long drives, mountain excursions and desert activities.
- For families traveling by private vehicle, it is sensible to avoid filling every day with activities that depend on daylight.
- Try to arrive at mountain or desert accommodation before it becomes dark, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the roads.
Shorter days also work well with family travel in another way. You can finish sightseeing earlier and return to your accommodation for rest before dinner.
This is often easier with young children than maintaining a summer style schedule until late evening.
Marrakech or Agadir in December?
The better choice depends on what your family wants.
| If your priority is | Better choice |
|---|---|
| Cultural sightseeing | Marrakech |
| Medinas and historic sites | Marrakech |
| Winter sun | Agadir |
| Beach walks | Agadir |
| Southern coastal weather | Agadir |
| Atlas day trip | Marrakech |
| First Morocco visit | Marrakech |
| Relaxed seaside holiday | Agadir |
| Combining culture and desert | Marrakech |
You do not necessarily have to choose one.
A longer family trip can combine Marrakech with Agadir or another southern destination, provided you are comfortable with the additional driving.
Is Early December Better Than Late December?
- Early December is generally simpler if your main goal is quieter travel.
- Late December overlaps with Christmas and New Year, which can increase demand for accommodation and popular travel services.
- The weather difference between early and late December is not necessarily the main issue.
- The bigger difference is demand.
Families traveling during school holidays should plan earlier, particularly if they need larger rooms, connecting rooms, specific camps or a private vehicle for several days.
December Weather and Family Accommodation
Accommodation matters more in December than many first time visitors expect.
In summer, a beautiful riad with limited heating may not be a major concern.
In December, it can affect the whole experience.
Before booking, check:
- Is heating available in the bedroom?
- Is the bathroom heated?
- Is there hot water?
- Is the pool heated?
- Does the room have proper windows or insulation?
- Can the property provide warm blankets?
- Is breakfast available at a suitable time for children?
For desert camps, ask about bedding and heating rather than assuming every camp offers the same winter setup.
Practical December Advice for Families
A few simple decisions can make a noticeable difference.
- Start outdoor activities earlier in the day when temperatures are comfortable.
- Keep an extra warm layer in the vehicle rather than leaving everything inside your luggage.
- Do not plan a full day around swimming unless the pool is heated.
- Allow extra time for mountain routes when winter weather is forecast.
- If traveling with toddlers, build regular breaks into sightseeing days.
- If traveling with grandparents, balance walking days with shorter activity days.
- For the Sahara, prepare for the nighttime temperature rather than the afternoon temperature.
- For the Atlantic coast, bring a waterproof outer layer and something that protects against wind.
Most importantly, do not plan Morocco as though the whole country has one climate.
Festivals and Events Around December
The Marrakech International Film Festival is an important event to check when planning a December trip, although its dates can fall partly or entirely in November.
For 2026, the festival’s official accreditation information lists the 23rd edition from November 20 to 28, 2026.Â
That means it should not be described as a December 2026 event.
If your trip begins in late November and continues into early December, check the official festival schedule before booking accommodation in Marrakech.
New Year’s Eve is different. December 31 falls within the period when many desert camps and hotels offer special celebrations, but exact programs vary by property and should be confirmed before booking.
Is Morocco Warm at Christmas?
Morocco is not hot at Christmas, but it can be pleasantly warm during the day compared with many northern countries.
- Agadir is one of the strongest choices for winter warmth.
- Marrakech is a good option for families who want comfortable sightseeing temperatures.
- The desert can be pleasant during the day but cold at night.
- The Atlas Mountains can be genuinely cold and snowy.
So if your definition of a warm Christmas is sitting in the sun during the afternoon, Morocco can work.
If you want guaranteed swimming weather and tropical temperatures, December is not the right month.
Conclusion: Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
The weather in Morocco in December is best understood as mild winter weather with major regional differences.
Marrakech offers comfortable conditions for sightseeing but chilly evenings. Agadir is warmer and better suited to travelers looking for southern Atlantic sunshine. Fes and the northern regions can feel colder, especially after sunset. The Sahara can be pleasant during the day but very cold overnight, while the Atlas Mountains can experience winter conditions.
For families, December can be a very practical time to visit Morocco. The cooler daytime temperatures make sightseeing easier, but your itinerary needs to account for short daylight hours and cold evenings.
The most important rule is simple: pack for the region and the time of day, not just for Morocco as a whole.
If your family wants help planning a private Morocco trip, Morocco Family Vacation creates customized itineraries around your family’s ages, interests, preferred pace and comfort level. We can combine Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara, Fes, coastal destinations and other parts of Morocco without forcing your family into a fixed group schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our dedicated team is here to answer your Morocco Family Travel questions and ensure a smooth, memorable journey through Morocco.
Is Morocco hot in December?
Morocco is generally mild rather than hot in December. Southern destinations such as Agadir can reach around 20 to 24°C during the day, while Marrakech and Fes are generally cooler. Evenings can be cold, particularly inland and in the desert.
What is the average temperature in Morocco in December?
There is no single national December temperature because Morocco has several climate zones. Official Moroccan tourism information gives winter daytime conditions of around 20 to 24°C in Agadir, 16 to 20°C in Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier, and 12 to 18°C in Marrakech and Fes.
Is Marrakech warm in December?
Marrakech can be pleasantly warm in direct winter sunshine during the day, but it is not hot. Evenings are cool and you should bring a jacket or warmer layer.
Where is the warmest place in Morocco in December?
Agadir and the southern Atlantic coast are among the best choices for mild winter warmth. The official Moroccan tourism office describes Agadir as having a mild climate and highlights the wider Agadir and Taghazout area for its coastal conditions.
Can you sunbathe in Morocco in December?
Yes. Southern destinations such as Agadir can have pleasant sunny afternoons suitable for sitting outdoors. However, December is not reliably hot, and evenings can become cool quickly.
Does it rain in Morocco in December?
Rain is possible, especially in northern and Atlantic coastal areas. Conditions vary considerably between regions, so a waterproof layer is useful when traveling around Morocco in December.
Is Morocco good for a family trip in December?
Yes. The mild daytime weather can make walking and sightseeing comfortable for children and adults. Families should plan for cold evenings, especially in Marrakech, Fes, the mountains and the Sahara.
Is the Sahara cold in December?
Yes, particularly at night. Desert afternoons can be sunny and comfortable, but overnight temperatures can become very cold. Families staying in a desert camp should bring proper winter layers.
Does it snow in Morocco in December?
Yes. Snow is possible in the Atlas Mountains and other higher elevation areas during winter. Conditions vary from year to year and high mountain routes require appropriate planning.
What should I wear in Morocco in December?
Use layers. Bring comfortable daytime clothing, a fleece or sweater, a jacket, closed walking shoes and a waterproof layer. Add warmer winter clothing if your itinerary includes the Sahara or mountains.
Is Morocco warm at Christmas?
It can be pleasantly mild during the daytime, especially in southern destinations such as Agadir. Marrakech is comfortable for sightseeing, while evenings and higher elevations are much colder.
Should I visit Morocco in early or late December?
Early December is generally easier if you want quieter travel and more accommodation choice. Late December overlaps with Christmas and New Year, so families should book important accommodation and transportation earlier.
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At Morocco Family Vacation, we create custom Morocco tour packages designed around your interests and travel style. As a dedicated and independent travel agency, we specialize in private Morocco tours offering memorable desert adventures, cultural experiences, and family friendly itineraries while delivering attentive, personalized service from start to finish.
