December temperatures in Morocco will vary greatly depending on the region you plan to visit. That said, December is still a great month to visit Morocco. I visit Morocco frequently in December, and even as a Moroccan, I always find new ways to enjoy the country and discover new destinations. So it’s definitely worth it for someone who’s never been to Morocco or only went a few times!
Even though winter brings slightly more rain than summer, Morocco weather in December is still quite warm. December is also a great time to visit as fewer people come, meaning less crowd and more choices for beautiful riad accommodations.
December is also a fantastic month for trekking expeditions because you can still enjoy Morocco’s beautiful landscapes without worrying about the intense heat.
Morocco December – Snow covered peaks, High Atlas Mountain range in the Toubkal National Park
Remember that certain accommodations may not have central heating when making a reservation. As a general rule of thumb, hotels or riads that are three stars or more offer in-room heating, space heaters, and additional blankets.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco?
The month of December is excellent for visiting Morocco! The weather in Morocco in December is still comfortable, so you can enjoy all the outdoor activities and attractions to the fullest without worrying about overheating. Most tourist destinations have lower prices and fewer visitors in December, so it’s a good time to avoid crowded periods and benefit from low prices.
Marrakech in December
December Temperatures in Morocco and The Weather
December can get a little chilly in Morocco, but if you’re coming from where it snows during the winter, Marrakech’s December temperatures will feel warm and comfortable.
Marrakech’s average daytime temperature in December is about 57°F (14°C), dropping considerably further after dark. A light sweater and jacket during the day will be more than enough. However, some days can get hotter, and you’ll reach for your jacket less. You can expect around six hours of sunshine daily, which is perfect for exploring this great city.
December is also one of Morocco’s rainiest months, so there’s a good chance you might get some rain during your stay. It rarely rains for days in a row, and you can always plan other activities on rainy days; we’ll see in more detail all your options.
Morocco’s winter seems like a dream compared to most of the Northern Hemisphere. The weather is more like autumn than the usual winter that most people know.
When visiting the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, prepare to face winter conditions at higher elevations. Visitors visiting this one-of-a-kind location can go skiing and on camel rides through the desert in a relatively short time.
What to Wear in Morocco in December
Packing for the fall would be a good idea if you’re planning a December trip to Morocco. To be warm and cozy in the winter, choose layers like sweaters, slacks, jeans, long skirts crafted from heavier materials, sweatshirts, and hoodies.
However, you should wear numerous layers because the sun might periodically release extreme heat.
Despite the mild weather, rain is still possible in Morocco because the country’s rainy season is in the winter. Bring some rain gear, preferably a hybrid that can keep you dry and toasty in inclement weather. To accurately pack for your trip to Morocco in December, check the weather reports for the areas you’ll be traveling to in advance.
Although rare, if your accommodations don’t have central heating, it’s better to bring extra socks, warm pajamas, robes, and a blanket. You can also shop for warm blankets in Morocco to travel lightly. The price will be very reasonable.
When planning a trip to the mountains, a durable, waterproof jacket, warm socks, a cap, and waterproof boots (if hiking is on your itinerary) are all good things to have. Anyone planning on skiing or trekking in the mountains should also consider investing in warm underwear.
What to Do in Morocco in December
A warm December day is the ideal opportunity for a lengthy hike in Morocco, which provides a multitude of breathtaking scenery just waiting to be explored. The sun will warm you, and the weather will be nice, so you can enjoy exploring the shore, a city market, a mountain walk, picturesque rural villages, or the breathtaking Sahara desert.
If the weather turns chilly or wet, indulge in a bowl of couscous or other typical Moroccan treats at one of the charming venues.
I always recommend that my clients take a rainy day as an opportunity to slow down and turn their attention to self-care or learning about Morocco’s culture.
Beautiful rooftop in Marrakech in December
You can visit historic palaces and museums, treat yourself to a relaxing hammam experience, spend a chill afternoon in a cafe terrasse enjoying the view with Moroccan mint tea and pastries, or take a traditional Moroccan cooking class. There are endless, beautiful opportunities.
Taking a cooking class is a wonderful opportunity to learn easy Moroccan recipes to make back home
Shopping for handicrafts is also a must while visiting Morocco. You’ll find a Moroccan market in every city of Morocco, and you’ll be mesmerized by what you can find: artisanal rugs and tapestries, lanterns, leather goods, jewelry, spices, pure cosmetic oils, and more. It’s always a good idea to be patient and compare offers from different artisans. Also, check the materials; some vendors may sell manufactured products instead of artisanal ones. If you’re planning to acquire a few quality artisanal products from Morocco or are unsure what’s worth your attention and how to avoid imitation. In that case, my Morocco shopping guide will be very helpful.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco in December
Marrakech
Marrakech is a must-see city in Morocco. Even as a Moroccan, I don’t miss any opportunity to visit. One stay is usually not enough to see all the opportunities it offers.
Ensure you set aside time to see the ancient Medina’s Jemaa el-Fnaa market. Let yourself be swept away by the city’s mesmerizing atmosphere as you meander around its lively streets.
While visiting the ancient Medina, set aside time to wander through Marrakech market. Look at the skilled craftspeople who painstakingly dye the beautiful fabrics used to make coats, purses, dresses, and other beautiful things. Like setting out on a vivacious adventure through time.
Souvenirs on the Jamaa el Fna market in old Medina, Marrakesh, Morocco
On a beautiful day, the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech is the perfect place for a leisurely walk. Even in the dead of winter, its stunning splendor is unmatched. Renowned French painter Jacques Majorelle spent forty years perfecting this magical garden he built from the ground up.
One of the most popular things to do in Marrakech is to take cooking classes. You can also sign up for a Marrakech walking tour or street food.
Marrakech is close to many desert spots, as well as to beautiful villages in the Atlas mountains.
If your time is limited, consider this one-day visit to the Atlas Mountains, which includes a cooking class and immersion in beautiful natural landscapes and rural mountain villages.
If you would like to explore more of the Marrakech region, including the Atlas mountains, this four-day desert trip offers a grand overview of the desert region and a wide range of unforgettable and inspiring experiences.
Taroudant
On the road to Ouarzazate, approximately 1.5 hours east of the seaside city of Agadir, is the charming little hamlet of Taroudant.
Panoramic view Taroudant’s tower in the winter season
Taroudant, located just south of Marrakech, is frequently called the “Grandmother of Marrakech” because of the remarkable similarities between the two cities. But there is something special about this magical city that draws in adventurers searching for rare and exotic goods, such as carpets, jewelry, and other works of art that have been painstakingly made.
Taroudant is a lovely place to go for walks in the park. Walls are often adorned with the stunning creations of street artists, which add to the city’s charm. Taroudant is a great place to meet locals and see Berber craftspeople at work, away from the tourist traps of bigger cities.
Rabat
Rabat is a fantastic place to visit during December. With a lively European vibe and a wealth of modern conveniences, this Moroccan capital has it all. There is no need to brave the outside when the weather turns nasty—there are plenty of great places to dine and shop here.
Beautiful Rabat in December
The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is a great place to escape the winter weather. Since its opening in 2014, it has shown a fascinating mix of international and Moroccan modern and contemporary art.
Although wandering around this modern metropolis is fun, set aside enough time to see the Rabat Medina. Charming and small enough to be seen in a day, this old-walled city is well worth a visit. Walking through Medina’s 17th-century layout is a great way to remember that Rabat has a rich history despite its contemporary charm.
Safi
Approximately 2.5 hours south of Casablanca is the picturesque Atlantic coast city of Safi. Beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and world-famous Safiot ceramics are just a few of the Portuguese touches that make this vacation so special.
Stop into the National Ceramics Museum to learn more about Safiot pottery. Located within the impressive Kechla fortress, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the museum is beautiful regardless of whether you are interested in pottery. Nonetheless, words fail to do justice to the stunning collection displayed here.
A must-see in Safi is Ksar el-Bahr, sometimes called the “castle of the sea.” This Portuguese fortress, built in the 16th century, offers impressive sea and medina vistas.
Spending Christmas in Morocco
Christmas celebrations are less common in Morocco than in other nations due to the country’s high Muslim population. Many of Morocco’s largest cities have places of worship where you can attend a service, albeit most speak French or Spanish. While you can see a few stores decked out in lights or decorations in touristy areas like Rabat, Casablanca, or Marrakech, the celebrations are usually kept low-key.
New Year’s Eve in Morocco
On New Year’s Eve, private dinners and parties are abundant in large Moroccan cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Agadir, and Tangier. However, many of these events may get pricey, so you might want to do some digging before committing. Many of these events are also limited, so I recommend booking beforehand.
If you’re staying in a traditional Moroccan riad, a five stars hotel, or if you’re touring the desert, there’s a high chance a small celebration will be included, which can be as simple and effective as sipping tea or champagne on the rooftop of your hotel or in the middle of the desert with a local orchestra playing traditional music.
