Travel to Marrakech in December: Weather, Things to Do and Tips
Is December a good time to travel to Marrakech? Yes. December brings sunny, mild days that are ideal for walking the medina and visiting gardens and palaces, with cool evenings and cold nights. It is also a popular time for Christmas and New Year trips, so book early.
Weather figures below are general guides only. Conditions vary from year to year, so check a forecast shortly before you travel.
Marrakech in December at a Glance
| Topic | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Daytime weather | Mild and often sunny, usually around the high teens °C |
| Evenings and nights | Cool to cold, so bring layers |
| Rain | Possible, but December is not usually the wettest month |
| Crowds | Busier around Christmas and New Year |
| Atlas Mountains | Cold, sometimes with snow on the high peaks |
| Sahara | Pleasant days, very cold nights |
What to Do in Marrakech in December
- Explore the medina and the souks in comfortable temperatures
- Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset, when the food stalls open
- See gardens, palaces and museums without the summer heat
- Relax in a hammam or spa on cooler evenings
- Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or Ouzoud Falls
- Join a Sahara tour for a camel ride and a night in a desert camp
What to Pack
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Light layers and a warm jacket | Warm afternoons, chilly mornings and nights |
| Warm hat and scarf | Essential for the desert at night |
| Comfortable walking shoes | Medina streets are uneven |
| Light rain jacket | For occasional showers |
| Sunglasses and sunscreen | The winter sun is still strong |
Sahara Desert Tour in December
December is a comfortable month for the desert because there is no extreme heat. Days are pleasant for the camel ride, but nights can be very cold, so desert camps provide blankets and you should bring warm clothes. The drive from Marrakech to Merzouga takes most of a day, so a 3 day tour is the usual choice. Read our guide to the Morocco desert tour from Marrakech and find out whether Merzouga is worth it.
Tips for December Travel
- Book riads, flights and desert tours early for Christmas and New Year
- Choose a riad with heating, as rooms can feel cold at night
- Check the weather before mountain or desert plans
- Dress modestly and respect local customs
- Check your government travel advice before you go
Flying in? See our guides to travel to Morocco from the UK, from Spain and from Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marrakech warm in December?
Days are usually mild and sunny, but evenings and nights are cool to cold.
Is December a good month for the Sahara?
Yes, because there is no extreme heat, but pack warm clothes for the very cold nights.
Is Marrakech busy at Christmas and New Year?
Yes, it is one of the busier periods, so book early.
Can you swim in December?
Heated pools are common in riads and hotels, but unheated pools can be cold.
Plan Your Morocco Trip
Planning December in Marrakech? Message us on WhatsApp and we will help you plan your Sahara trip.