With a varied landscape, Morocco harbors Mediterranean coasts, snow-capped mountains, and arid deserts within a few hours’ drive—truly a traveler’s paradise. While winter coolness may pervade most of Morocco, some areas remain tantalizingly warm to serve as winter escapes. But where is the hottest place in Morocco in December? And what to expect for weather in Morocco in December?
This guide introduces all the warmest places to visit in terms of sunshine, warmth, and good places to enjoy Morocco’s mild winter weather, such as the Sahara Desert, Marrakech, Agadir, and Dakhla.
1. Understanding Morocco Weather in December
So before we get into the hottest places, we should first get acquainted with some general patterns Morocco weather December.
- Northern Morocco (Tangier, Chefchaouen, Rabat) experiences cooler temperatures that average between 10°C and 18°C (50°F – 64°F).
- Central Morocco (Marrakech, Fes, Meknes) is then characterized by mildly warm daytime highs of about 19 to 22°C (66°F – 72°F).
- Coastal of Morocco (Casablanca, Agadir, Essaouira) remains moderate at 15-24°C (59-75°F).
- Southern Morocco & Sahara Desert the temperatures soar often reaching the perfect 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day, making it the ideal escape for those seeking warmth.
So given Morocco weather December changes, let’s go on a tour of the hottest places you need to check out to soak in some winter sun.
2. The Sahara Desert – The Hottest Place in Morocco in December
Morocco’s hottest place in December would be the Sahara Desert. Merzouga, Erg Chebbi, and Zagora are among the top places to enjoy the stunning scenery and the warm sun of the desert.
Why is the Sahara the Hottest in December?
- Because of its proximity to the tropics, the Sahara Desert remains more heated.
- Morocco weather December in the desert sees daytime temperatures of 25°C – 30°C (77°F – 86°F).
- The nights may get chilly, downgrading to about 5°C-10°C (41°F – 50°F), but the sunny and warm days are perfect for desert activities.
The Sahara is an ideal place to visit in December
- Camel Trekking – the gentle sway of the camel amidst the golden sands seen at sunrise or sunset-there are two main areas to choose from: Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga.
- Luxury Desert Camping – Stay in a traditional Berber tent, lavishly decorated with Moroccan carpets and candles; the giddying glow of the stars overhead serves more than an aesthetic purpose.
- 4×4 Off-Road Adventures – Get ready for a roller-coaster riot across the massive dunes of Merzouga and Zagora.
- Visit Ksar Ait Benhaddou – a UNESCO site of international importance and an acclaimed film location (Gladiator or Game of Thrones).
Best Time to Visit the Sahara in December
- Midday during the month of December is the ideal time to experience the hottest place in Morocco. The sun is blazing high then!
- Pack lightweight clothes for the daytime, while layering warm clothes would be prudent for nighttime chills.
3. Marrakech – The Perfect Balance of Warmth and Culture
If you’re seeking somewhere a bit warmer during the months of winter yet prefer a combination of vivacity and culture, Marrakech is a good option. Morocco weather December in Marrakech remains mild to warm, perfect for city exploration while not being subject to that blistering summer heat.
Marrakech Weather in December
- Daytime temperatures: 18°C – 23°C (64°F – 73°F)
- Nighttime temperatures: 6°C – 10°C (43°F – 50°F)
- Sunshine: Around 7 hours per day
Why Visit Marrakech in December?
- Fewer tourists than during peak seasons; means the souks, riads, and attractions will less crowded.
- Perfect weather for sightseeing, The weather will be beautiful, from Jemaa el-Fnaa Square to the lovely Bahia Palace.
- Affordable luxury – more discounted rates offered from many hotels and riads in December.
- Magical gardens – Majorelle Garden or Secret Garden with comfortable weather.
Best Things to Do in Marrakech in December
- Explore the Medina – Stroll through the souks, shopping for handmade carpets, lanterns, and spices.
- Treat yourself to Moroccan Cuisine – Rooftop dinner of tagine and mint tea, with views of the Atlas Mountains.
- Take a Day Trip to the Agafay Desert – If you have no time for the Sahara, the rocky desert of Agafay gives you a taste of the dunes.
Marrakech may not be the hottest location that Morocco offers in December, but warmth, culture, and adventure are guaranteed.
4. Agadir – Morocco’s Warm Coastal City in Winter, December
Morocco weather December at Agadir is the best for the beach lover. Its warmth, compared to that of most other Moroccan coastal cities, can be credited to its proximity to the Sahara.
Agadir Weather in December
- Daytime temperatures: 20°C – 25°C (68°F – 77°F)
- Nighttime temperatures: 12°C – 15°C (54°F – 59°F)
- Water temperature: Around 18°C (64°F)
Why Choose Agadir in December?
- Year-round sunshine – Agadir enjoys more than 300 sunny days during the year.
- Warmer Atlantic waters – While not tropical, it’s warmer compared to Essaouira or Casablanca.
- Modern comforts – Unlike other Moroccan cities, Agadir has a more Western feel with resorts, golf courses, and beachfront promenades.
Best Activities in Agadir in December
- Be relaxed in Agadir Beach – Time for sunbathing with warmth and clarity of skies.
- Surf in Taghazout – This is one of the major surfing spots in Morocco, situated just north of Agadir.
- Visit Paradise Valley – A secret oasis with natural pools, waterfalls, and luxuriant palm woodlands.
5. Dakhla – Perfect Winter Getaway
If you are searching for Morocco’s best-kept winter secret, go to Dakhla, a desolate coastal city in the Western Sahara.
Dakhla Weather in December
- Daytime temperatures: 23°C – 27°C (73°F – 81°F)
- Nighttime temperatures: 16°C – 18°C (61°F – 64°F)
- Wind conditions: Perfect for kitesurfing and wind sports.
Why Visit Dakhla?
- Winter beach destination in Morocco with the warmest weather.
- Untouched nature, with desert landscapes meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
- Kitesurfing and water sports are world-class.
Top Things to Do in Dakhla
- Get into Kitesurfing – Dakhla ranks among the international premier kitesurfing locations.
- Take a dip in the Lagoon – A warm natural lagoon with crystal-clear waters is perfect for relaxing.
- Discover Dragon Island – A desert island surrounded by blue oceans.
Where to Find the Hottest Place in Morocco in December?
If you’re looking to chill at the hottest place in Morocco in December, then it’s definitely the Sahara Desert, where the temperature can go up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). If you want warm weather combined with activities, then Marrakech, Agadir, and Dakhla are great choices.
No matter where to go, the Morocco weather December is guaranteed for sun, adventure, and a lot of unforgettable moments.