Winter is an underrated season in Morocco. Days are sunny and mild, tourist sites are calm, prices are lower, and you can see snow on the Atlas and dunes in the Sahara on the same trip. Here is what to expect from December to February.
Winter weather by region
| Region | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | 18–21°C | 5–9°C |
| Sahara (Merzouga) | 15–21°C | 0–7°C |
| High Atlas (Imlil) | 5–12°C | -5–2°C |
| Fes | 15–18°C | 4–7°C |
| Essaouira / coast | 17–19°C | 10–12°C |
| Chefchaouen | 13–16°C | 5–8°C |
Rain is possible in the north and on the coast; the south and the desert stay dry most of the time.
What to pack
- Layers: t-shirts for the day, a fleece and a warm jacket for evenings
- A hat and gloves if you go to the mountains or sleep in the desert
- A light rain jacket for the north
- Sunscreen and sunglasses — the winter sun is still strong
- Comfortable walking shoes
Also see our complete desert packing list.
Where to go in winter
The Sahara
Perfect during the day and spectacular at night: the clearest skies of the year. Choose a camp with heating and thick blankets. Read what to expect in a desert camp.
Marrakech
Ideal weather for walking the medina without the summer heat, with snow-capped mountains visible behind the city.
The Atlas mountains
Snowshoeing and winter hikes around Imlil, and skiing at Oukaïmeden when there is enough snow.
The coast
Essaouira and Agadir stay mild and sunny, good for long beach walks.
Things to know
- The Tizi n’Tichka pass can close for a few hours after heavy snow; our drivers check the forecast and adapt.
- Days are shorter: plan sightseeing before 5:30 pm.
- Christmas and New Year are high season in the desert — book early.
- Riads are old buildings and can feel cold; look for heating in the room.
Winter itinerary idea
Marrakech (2 nights) → Ait Benhaddou and Dades (1 night) → Merzouga desert camp (1 night) → Todra → back to Marrakech, with a day in the Ourika valley. See more options in our Morocco itinerary guide and check the best time to visit the Sahara.
Planning a winter trip? WhatsApp us: +212 606-957514.