Travelling to Morocco in winter, from December to February, is a great idea. The cities are calm, the light is beautiful and the desert days are mild. However, nights are cold and the Atlas can have snow. Here is what to expect and how to plan your trip.
In short: winter is a good time for Marrakech, Fes and the Sahara, with fewer crowds. Pack warm layers for the evenings and plan the mountain roads with a private driver.
Morocco in winter: the weather
- Marrakech: sunny days that feel like spring, but cool evenings.
- Fes and the north: cooler and sometimes rainy.
- Atlas Mountains: snow is common on the peaks, and passes like Tizi n’Tichka can close for a few hours after heavy snow.
- Sahara: pleasant days and cold nights, close to freezing in December and January.
For a month-by-month view, read the best time to visit Morocco.
Is the Sahara good in winter?
Yes. In fact, many travellers prefer it to summer, because walking in the dunes is comfortable. The camps have blankets, and you can enjoy the fire under the stars. Our 3 days Marrakech to Merzouga tour runs all winter. Planning the holidays? Read about New Year in the Sahara desert.
Best winter routes
- The 7 days Morocco tour from Marrakech for imperial cities and mountains.
- The 6 days desert tour from Marrakech for the Sahara at a slower pace.
- A tailor-made tour if you want to avoid long drives on cold days.
What to pack in winter
Bring a warm jacket, a fleece, a hat and gloves for the evenings, plus sunglasses and sunscreen for the day. In addition, see our full list of what to pack for the Sahara desert.
Morocco in winter: FAQ
Is Morocco in winter a good idea?
Yes. Days are often sunny, there are fewer crowds, and the desert is comfortable during the day.
Does it snow in Morocco?
Yes, in the High and Middle Atlas, for example around Ifrane. It rarely snows in Marrakech or the desert.
How cold is the Sahara in winter?
Days are mild, but nights can get close to freezing. The tents have thick blankets.
Is Marrakech warm in December?
During the day it is usually mild and sunny. However, evenings are cool, so bring a jacket.
Can roads close in winter?
The Tizi n’Tichka pass sometimes closes for a few hours after heavy snow. Our drivers check the conditions and adapt the plan.
Plan your winter trip
Winter is one of the calmest and most beautiful times to discover Morocco. Send us your dates, and we will build a private route that fits the season. See also Visit Morocco for more ideas.
Ready to plan your Morocco trip?
Tell us your dates and group size. We will send you a private route with your own driver, hand-picked riads and the price.
Main photo: Graham1250, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0.