Winter in Morocco, from December to February, is mild and sunny in the south and cool and wetter in the north. Expect daytime highs of around 18 to 20 °C in Marrakech and Agadir, 15 °C in Fes, cold nights everywhere, snow in the Atlas Mountains, and near-freezing nights in the Sahara.
Winter weather by region
Morocco has several climates in a small space. A two-hour drive can take you from orange trees in fruit to a snow-covered pass. The table gives approximate winter averages; cold snaps and warm spells both happen.
| Place | Daytime high | Night low | Winter character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | 18 to 20 °C | 5 to 7 °C | Mostly sunny, occasional rain, cold after dark |
| Fes | 15 to 17 °C | 4 to 6 °C | Cooler and wetter, damp in the medina |
| Chefchaouen and the Rif | 12 to 15 °C | 4 to 6 °C | Frequent rain, mist, sometimes snow on the hills |
| Casablanca and Rabat | 17 to 18 °C | 8 to 10 °C | Mild, breezy, showery |
| Essaouira and Agadir | 18 to 21 °C | 9 to 11 °C | The mildest winter weather in the country |
| Merzouga and the Sahara | 17 to 20 °C | 0 to 5 °C | Clear and dry, very cold nights |
| High Atlas villages | 8 to 12 °C | Below 0 °C | Snow above about 2,000 m |
Where to go in winter
Marrakech is at its most comfortable for walking. You can spend a whole day in the medina and gardens without seeking shade, and on clear days the snow line of the Atlas is visible from rooftop terraces.
The Sahara is a strong winter choice as long as you pack for the nights. Days are bright and warm in the sun, the dunes are quiet outside the holiday fortnight, and the low light suits photography. Month-by-month figures are in our guide to Merzouga weather, and routes are listed under Sahara desert tours from Marrakech.
The Atlantic coast south of Essaouira stays mild. Agadir and Taghazout are popular for winter sun and surfing, since this is the season of the best swells. Essaouira is windy but pleasant, and makes an easy private day trip from Marrakech.
The far south, including the Draa Valley and the Anti-Atlas around Tafraoute, is dry and sunny. Almond trees blossom there in late January and February.
Where to think twice
Chefchaouen and the Rif are still beautiful, but this is their rainy season, and several grey days in a row are possible. Go with a flexible attitude and waterproof shoes.
The Middle Atlas around Ifrane and Azrou is properly cold, with regular snow. It lies on the road between Fes and the desert, so that drive can be slower in January.
High-altitude trekking, including the ascent of Jebel Toubkal, becomes a winter mountaineering trip that calls for crampons, an ice axe and an experienced guide. Lower valley walks around Imlil and the Ourika Valley remain accessible on most days.
What to pack and wear
The mistake most winter visitors make is packing for the daytime only. A sunny 19 °C afternoon turns into a 6 °C evening within an hour of sunset.
- A warm jacket: insulated or down, especially for the desert and mountains.
- Layers: T-shirts, long-sleeved tops and a fleece or wool sweater you can add or remove.
- Thermal base layers and warm socks for desert camps and unheated rooms.
- A light waterproof jacket and closed, water-resistant shoes for the north.
- Hat, gloves and a scarf for sunrise in the dunes.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen. The winter sun is still strong, particularly on snow and sand.
The complete checklist is in the Morocco packing list.
Staying warm indoors
Traditional Moroccan houses are built to stay cool. Riads have open courtyards, tiled floors and thick walls, which is a blessing in August and a challenge in January. Central heating is rare.
When you book, ask whether rooms have heating, usually a reversible air-conditioning unit or a portable heater, and whether there is a fireplace in the lounge. In the desert, standard camps provide thick blankets, while higher-category camps often add heaters and hot showers in the tent. Mountain guesthouses typically heat the dining room with a wood stove.
Roads, driving and daylight
Main roads stay open through winter, with two caveats. After heavy snowfall, the Tizi n'Tichka pass between Marrakech and Ouarzazate and the passes of the Middle Atlas can close for a few hours while ploughs clear them. And heavy rain in the south can briefly flood the fords where roads cross dry riverbeds.
A local driver follows road reports and adjusts departure times, which is one reason guided trips are easier than self-drive at this time of year. Build a little slack into any plan that has a flight straight after a mountain crossing.
Days are shorter too. In December the sun sets at around 17:30 to 18:00 in most of the country, so long driving days start early and sunset camel rides leave by mid-afternoon. Shorter outings from the city, such as the day trips from Marrakech, fit winter daylight comfortably.
Crowds, prices and holidays
Winter is low season for most of Morocco, with one sharp exception. From roughly 20 December to the first days of January, demand is at its highest of the year in Marrakech and the desert, and good riads and camps sell out months ahead.
Outside that fortnight, January and early February are among the quietest weeks. Monuments are less busy, accommodation is easier to find and you will have more of the dunes to yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Is Morocco warm in winter?
It is mild by day in the south and on the coast, typically 18 to 20 °C, but not hot. Nights are cold throughout the country, and the mountains are properly wintry.
Does it snow in Morocco?
Yes. Snow falls regularly in the High and Middle Atlas from December to February, and Oukaimeden, about 75 km from Marrakech, has a small ski area. It does not normally snow in Marrakech or the desert.
Is winter a good time for a Sahara tour?
Yes, if you are prepared for cold nights. Days are sunny and comfortable, skies are clear for stargazing, and there are fewer visitors.
Can you swim in Morocco in winter?
The Atlantic is cool, around 17 to 18 °C near Agadir, so most swimmers use a wetsuit. Many hotel pools are unheated, so check before booking.
Tell Discover Morocco Tour your winter dates on the contact page for a free custom quote within 24 hours.