Trip Planning
Marrakech in December: Weather, What to Do and Day Trips
Published November 13, 2026 by Morocco Amazing Tours
The short answer: December is a very good month for Marrakech: sunny days around 18–20 °C, cool nights around 5–7 °C, few rainy days and smaller crowds than spring, except over Christmas and New Year. Pack layers, and plan day trips and desert tours with the shorter days in mind.
Marrakech weather in December
| Typical December | |
|---|---|
| Daytime | 18–20 °C, mostly sunny |
| Night | 5–7 °C |
| Daylight | About 10 hours; sunset around 18:00 |
What to pack
- Light layers for the day, a warm jacket for the evening.
- Comfortable closed shoes for the medina.
- A warm hat and gloves if you go to the Atlas or the desert.
Riads can be cool inside at night; ask if your room has heating.
Things to do in the city
December light is perfect for photos in Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset, the Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa and the Majorelle Garden. A hammam is especially welcome on a cool evening. Start with our 3-day Marrakech itinerary.
Best day trips in winter
- Imlil and the High Atlas: often snowy peaks above green valleys.
- Ouzoud Waterfalls: good flow after autumn rains.
- Essaouira: mild coastal weather and fewer crowds.
- Hot air balloon at sunrise: clear winter air, but dress warmly.
The desert in December
A Sahara trip is very possible in December: sunny days and cold nights. Read Christmas and New Year in the Sahara before you book.
Events
The Marrakech International Film Festival is often held in late November or early December; check the official dates if you want to attend. Christmas is not a public holiday in Morocco, but hotels and many restaurants offer festive dinners.
Sample 5-day December plan
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| 1 | Medina, souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset |
| 2 | Imlil and the High Atlas day trip |
| 3–5 | 3-day Sahara tour to Merzouga and back |
Rainy or cold day ideas
- Museums such as the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next to the Majorelle Garden and the Dar el Bacha palace.
- A traditional hammam.
- A Moroccan cooking class.
Frequently asked questions
Does it rain in Marrakech in December?
A few days at most; most days are dry and sunny.
Is December high season?
The week between Christmas and New Year is very busy. Early and mid December are quieter.
Plan your winter trip: see our day trips from Marrakech or ask for a free quote.
Plan it with us: Morocco travel guide, Morocco itineraries and Morocco vacation packages.
See it with a private driver
Planning a trip around this? These private, driver-guided itineraries cover it — every route can be adjusted to your dates.
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