Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco? A Solo Traveller’s Guide
December in Morocco is a bit of a mixed bag. It can be crisp, sunny days beneath snow-dusted mountains. Or it can (as 2025 taught us during the AFCON tournament) be grey skies and heavy rainfall.
If the last 10 years in Morocco has taught me anything, it’s that December is a month of contrasts: warm days in some regions, freezing nights in others and a noticeable holiday bump in prices as the end of the year approaches.
The start of December usually sees a bit of a lull in tourist numbers and can be a great time for a budget-friendly trip.
It’s definitely not beach weather. But the stargazing in the Sahara Desert is at its best and the Atlantic swells are bringing sizeable waves to Morocco’s surf coast.
Personally, I think early December is a great time to visit Morocco if you love slow travel experiences. With less demand for lodging, transportation and tours, you don’t have to have everything planned and booked before you depart home. There is room for flexibility.
And if you’re interested to see how Christmas and New Year’s are marked in a Muslim-majority country, then an end-of-December trip to Morocco is worth considering.
In this article, I’ll share what you can expect if you’re travelling solo to Morocco in December, from weather and crowds to safety and the best places to visit. It’s designed to help you decide if a winter vacation in Morocco is right for you and plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
For more seasonal recommendations, check out my solo traveller’s guides to visiting Morocco in November and January.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
Why Visit Morocco in December?
✔ Comfortable Weather
December brings cooler daytime temperatures across all of Morocco, but it’s still really comfortable for exploration. In cities like Marrakech and Fes, you can wander the medinas, visit historic sites and shop in the souks, without sweating your way through the intense summer heat.
That being said, there’s definitely the threat of rain in northern Morocco and the temperatures at night in the Atlas Mountains and Sahara can be really chilly. But it’s nothing that a few layers (or thermals) and a light waterproof jacket can’t solve!
✔ Fewer Crowds
Early December is off-peak in Morocco, meaning fewer tourists in the medinas and a generally more laid-back atmosphere. It’s usually easier to find available riads and hotels, and you might even snag some lower rates because of the drop in demand.
For solo travellers, this makes everything feel more manageable and far less daunting. You won’t need to book everything weeks ahead and can make last-minute decisions when it comes to tours.
✔ Dramatic Winter Landscapes
Something I personally love about exploring Morocco in December is watching the landscapes change with the arrival of snow. The Atlas Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop when travelling around the country and they’re that much more spectacular when their highest peaks are capped white.
In my opinion, the contrast between Morocco’s snowy mountains and desert landscapes makes winter travel incredibly photogenic. Plus, the clear skies translate into amazing stargazing in the Sahara and Agafay!
What About Christmas & New Year?
Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, so Christmas is not widely celebrated by locals. But as tourism grows, many hotels and restaurants are starting to host festive dinners catering to travellers.
So you can still experience the Christmas spirit during your trip, particularly in places like Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca.
New Year’s Eve is also celebrated in many Moroccan cities – sometimes with fireworks displays, sometimes with private dinners and parties. If you’re thinking about spending New Year’s in Morocco, I’ve detailed what you can expect (and how to plan ahead) in my article here.
As lots of Europeans take a short holiday during the last week of December, there is a significant uptick in tourist numbers. The message? Be sure to book your accommodation and any tours as far in advance as possible if you’re travelling during this period.
December Weather in Morocco
December in Morocco means cool-to-mild temperatures across the country and a high chance of rainfall, primarily in the north. Due to the country’s size and varying elevations, conditions and temperatures differ, depending on which region you visit.
- Inland cities (Marrakech, Fes, Meknes): Expect mild days and cool-to-chilly evenings
- Coastal areas (Essaouira, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir): Mild days and cool evenings
- Atlas Mountains: Mild during the day, very cold at night
- Sahara Desert: Warm during the day and very cold at night.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when visiting Morocco in December:
Marrakech
- Day: 18-20°C
- Night: 7-12°C
- Mild days, cool nights
You can learn more about visiting Marrakech in December in my detailed article here.
Fes
- Day: 16-20°C
- Night: 5-7°C
- Cool-to-mild days, chilly nights
You can learn more about visiting Fes in December in my detailed article here.
Chefchaouen
- Day: 13-15°C
- Night: 6–10°C
- Cool days, chilly nights
You can learn more about visiting Chefchaouen in my solo traveller’s guide here.
Agadir
- Day: 18–22°C
- Night: 9–12°C
- Warm days, mild nights
You can learn more about visiting Agadir in December in my detailed article here.
Sahara Desert
- Day: 18–25°C
- Night: 4–10°C
- Warm days, chilly nights
Discover everything you need to know about travelling solo to the Sahara Desert in my detailed guide here.
Atlas Mountains
- Temperatures vary depending on elevation – lower valleys are 13-16°C and higher peaks are 6–14°C.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco in December
1. Marrakech
Marrakech in December might not feel like the Morocco you envisioned (if that vision involved heat!) But it’s actually a fantastic time for sightseeing, with comfortable temperatures for medina wanderings during the daytime.
Evenings can definitely get cold, so bring layers. I’d also recommend finding a riad with central heating (some cheaper options don’t!) Better yet, consider somewhere with an open fireplace where you can cosy up in the evenings. Check out some of my top recommendations here.
As one of Morocco’s most popular tourist destinations, Marrakech can get busy during the holiday period at the end of December. Many tourist restaurants and hotels host festive dinners and New Year’s celebrations – be sure to book ahead!
Early December is far quieter if you want to escape the crowds. This usually coincides with the tail-end of the Marrakech International Film Festival, which features screenings of new works and panel discussions at venues across the city.
If you’re looking to venture beyond the “Red City”, December is an ideal time for day trips. You can journey into the Atlas Mountains for a day of hiking and visiting villages or book an overnight trip to Agafay to stay at one of its luxury desert camps.
You can learn more about visiting Marrakech in my solo traveller’s guide here. Alternatively, check out this recommend one-day Marrakech itinerary.
2. Sahara Desert
If you have extra time in your Morocco itinerary, I highly suggest visiting the Sahara instead of Agafay. Both landscapes are beautiful, but the Sahara feels more remote and boasts those undulating dunes that most people envision when they think “desert”.
In December, the daytime temperatures in the Sahara are still relatively warm. It’s the nighttime chill you have to be prepared for!
But personally, I think this adds to the experience. I love sitting around a campfire in the evening when you really appreciate its warmth. And the stargazing at this time of year is exceptional due to the clear skies!
If you’re after more of a social atmosphere, I’d recommend picking Erg Chebbi, accessed via the gateway town of Merzouga. The dunes of Erg Chigaga (near M’Hamid) offer more of a remote, wilderness experience.
For solo travellers, one of the easiest ways to visit the Sahara Desert is by joining a guided tour from Marrakech or Fes. These are usually budget-friendly and often include stops at other destinations, such as the photogenic ksar of Ait Benhaddou.
Discover everything you need to know about travelling solo to the Sahara in my detailed guide here.
3. Essaouira
As winter arrives, the weather becomes a bit too chilly for a traditional beach getaway in Morocco. However, I still think Essaouira is a fantastic choice for a coastal escape.
Daytime temperatures are generally warm for strolling the medina’s whitewashed streets and shopping in the souks, as well as hopping between Essaouira’s abundant art galleries.
I also just love sitting outside a cafe or on the edge of Place Moulay Hassan and people-watching in the winter sunshine.
If you’re interested in learning to surf at Plage d’Essaouira, December is an ideal time, as the winter swells begin to roll in. Alternatively, you can head south to the atmospheric village of Sidi Kaouki, which offers some of the most reliable surf near Essaouira.
For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in Essaouira for solo travellers.
4. Agadir and Taghazout
If you’re looking for Morocco’s warmest coastal destination in December, consider spending a few days in Agadir or the nearby surf village of Taghazout. Temperatures often reach the low 20s Celsius during the day and the sun is out shining.
As mentioned above, it’s not “ideal” beach weather. But you can still brave a swim in the Atlantic Ocean. Alternatively, you take advantage of the heated pools at many of Agadir’s hotels and resorts.
Speaking of which, it’s possible to find good deals at Agadir’s all-inclusive properties during early December, before peak season prices kick in at the end of the month.
For surfers, the winter swells are firing up Taghazout’s breaks. In fact, December is probably one of the best months for surfing in Morocco. That being said, you’ll definitely need a wetsuit for anything other than a really short session!
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Agadir in my solo traveller’s guide.
5. Atlas Mountains
While the Atlas Mountains are magnificent at any time of the year, they’re particularly special in December. The highest peaks are usually covered in snow and the views are spectacular!
Daytime temperatures are generally mild, making them perfect for being out on the hiking trails. However, the nights can get really cold, especially if you’re doing a homestay in a high-altitude village. Pack plenty of warm clothes!
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are lots of other ways to appreciate the beauty of the Atlas Mountains in December. Simply staying at one of the region’s atmospheric hotels and soaking in the panoramic views is a worthwhile way to spend a day or two!
For those travelling alone, there are lots of small-group guided tours available that allow you to discover the region without having to rent a car. Some of these tours include short hikes, while others focus more on engaging with local communities.
Discover some of my favourite adventures in the Atlas Mountains here.
6. Rabat
If you’re more of a city person and love architectural monuments and museums, consider visiting Rabat, the capital of Morocco. While temperatures are cooler in the north in December, Rabat’s coastal setting helps to moderate things.
You can marvel at the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the unfinished Hassan Tower, then stroll the Kasbah of the Oudaias’ whitewashed streets. Don’t miss a visit to the Andalusian-style garden at its base!
When it comes to museums, Rabat is home to the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Morocco’s top archaeology institution, the Museum of History and Civilisations. Here, you can get up close to ancient artefacts from the Roman cities of Volubilis and Lixus, as well as from the nearby ruins of Chellah.
It’s also worth mentioning that Rabat has been named UNESCO’s World Book Capital for 2026, making this December an excellent time for book lovers to explore. Anticipate book launches, readings and discussions at cultural venues throughout the city. You can find out more about it here.
Solo Travel Safety in December
December is generally a calm and safe time for solo travellers. In my experience, having fewer other tourists creates a more relaxed atmosphere. I find this makes it easier to stay alert in busy tourist areas like Djemaa el-Fnaa where pickpocketing has occurred.
Regardless of when you decide to go, it’s important to follow basic safety measures. Avoid poorly lit areas after dark and dress modestly, especially when you’re away from the beach.
It’s worth noting that some solo travellers, particularly women, report facing unwanted attention from local men in specific parts of Morocco, with Marrakech often the culprit. I’ve shared some tips for handling these kind of situations here.
What to Pack for Morocco in December
Wondering what to pack for Morocco in December? While it’s warm during the day in many Moroccan destinations, temperatures can be incredibly chilly at night, particularly in the Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert and northern Morocco.
Essential things to pack for a November trip to Morocco
- Layers, layers and layers (+ thermals for desert trips)
- Light sweaters
- A warm jacket or fleece
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A scarf + beanie
- Warm sleepwear (for desert trips)
Top Things to Do in Morocco in December That are Solo-Friendly
- Explore the museums and markets of Marrakech
- Soak up the snow-capped views in the Atlas Mountains
- Stargaze in the Sahara Desert or Agafay
- Discover the architectural monuments of Rabat
- Surf the breaks around Taghazout
Pros and Cons of Visiting Morocco in December
✔ Pros
- Comfortable temperatures for exploring
- Clear skies for desert stargazing
- Fewer crowds (in early December)
✘ Cons
- Some rain (mainly in northern Morocco)
- Chilly nights in mountains and desert
- Shorter daylight hours
Is December a Good Time to Visit Morocco as a Solo Traveller?
If you’re happy to embrace the unpredictability of Morocco’s weather in December, I think it’s a great time for off-season travel. That is, if you visit before the Christmas/New Year’s holiday period!
As winter arrives across the country, temperatures are definitely dropping, but daytime highs are still generally pleasant for medina explorations. Just be ready for the chilly nights…and maybe a bit of rain in the northern regions.
The main downside of travelling solo to Morocco in December is that it’s not ideal for being at the beach. Well, not for sitting on a lounger at least. If you’re here to surf, then winter is peak swell season!
Personally, I think December is a good choice for solo travellers seeking cultural immersion in Morocco’s cities. The temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing and museums are never far away if you need somewhere dry to retreat when the skies open.
On the flipside, December in Morocco isn’t ideal for anyone who’s envisioning a classically hot North African getaway. Yes, it’s likely warmer than most European countries. But trust me when I say that Moroccans are rugged up in their warmest djellabas by the time December arrives.
Provided you’re selective about your accommodation (make sure it has central heating or adequate blankets) and pack enough warm woollies, then a December trip to Morocco can be surprisingly memorable!
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I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
