organize december trip to morocco

The weather

Morocco experiences a moderate and sometimes wet winter, but December also delivers plenty of bright days perfect for sightseeing and hiking.

When visiting Fes, you should plan on wearing rather warm clothing because the average high temperature there is 64°F, with a low of 43°. The average daily temperature in the Atlas Mountains is 57°F, and precipitation is expected. Anticipate showers and mild temperatures in the fifties in northern cities such as Tangier. Marrakech had warmer weather, with sunny days reaching nearly 70°. In the desert, you’ll need to wrap up after dark.

Additionally, keep in mind that not all hotels have central heating. It’s worth enquiring about in advance, depending on where you’re going.

Costs & Crowds

Around Christmas and New Year’s, especially in larger cities, there is an increase in the number of tourists, and costs also tend to rise. In places like Marrakech and Fes, you’ll find major tourist attractions packed with people throughout that week, so make sure to reserve your hotel room well in advance. However, Morocco is considerably more tranquil early in the month, and since prices are “off-season,” now is a fantastic opportunity to treat yourself to a nice stay at a riad or resort.

Where to Go

Wintertime in the Sahara Desert is stunning, with bright skies and little dust, making it the perfect time of year for stargazing and taking pictures. As long as you have the right equipment and an experienced guide, trekking in the Atlas or Rif Mountains is a terrific idea during this time of year. Since the days are short in the winter, you should have a well-thought-out plan in place before beginning any kind of journey to avoid becoming lost in the highlands.

For touring in any of Morocco’s royal cities, early December is especially great because of the pleasant weather and lack of crowds. These cities are also the hub of the holiday celebrations later in the month;

How to Proceed

The Sahara desert is worth exploring in December. December’s chilly weather is ideal for campfires and camel rides, unlike the other months which can be too hot for some activities. It’s also a great time to go climbing or trekking in the mountains, but only if you plan on having a few daylight hours. For longer hikes, it’s advisable to go with a knowledgeable guide.

But there’s no issue with daylight hours in Morocco’s cities. For cultural sightseeing, December is a great month, especially since there isn’t the Christmas crowd.

December Occasions

Tan Tan Moussem: This fabled celebration in southeast Morocco unites over thirty native tribes for horse races, traditional dances, and camel racing.

International Film Festival of Marrakech — Taking place in Jemaa el-Fnaa plaza, this Marrakech film festival features an outdoor movie showing of the best Moroccan films of the year. On occasion, the celebration begins in November. For dates and screening times, visit the website.

New Year’s Eve: December 31st is a festive night throughout Morocco, even though the country also observes the new year by the Berber calendar (the Yennayer, or Berber New Year, falls in January). Spending the night under the stars in the Sahara Desert is said to bring good fortune, but you’ll have just as much fun out in Marrakech or Fes.

Are you visiting Morocco in December? Take a look at these fantastic routes.

Morocco Grand Tour: Coastal Towns & Imperial Cities, Departing from Rabat — December is a great month to go sightseeing because there are fewer people around. The capital city of Rabat is where this iteration of the grand tour begins. The Rif Mountains, the “blue city” of Chefchaouen, the historic medina of Fes, the souks of Marrakech, and lounging by the sea in Essaouira are some of the journey’s highlights.

A Taste of Morocco: Marrakech, Fes, and the Sahara Desert — Make the most of the dust-free, bright December skies by planning an itinerary that emphasizes the desert. This short itinerary, which takes you to Fes, Marrakech, the Sahara Desert, and the High Atlas Mountains in less than a week, is proof that you can do a lot in 5 days from Marrakech