Morocco in Winter: Where to Go for Sunshine
Three to four hours' flight from much of Europe, Morocco is one of the closest winter-sun destinations. But the country is large and winter is not the same everywhere: you can swim in Dakhla while snow falls on the High Atlas. Here is where to find the warmth, what to expect in each region and how to make the most of the low season.
For winter sun in Morocco, head for the southern coast and the deep south: Agadir sees around 20°C by day from December to February, Dakhla around 23 to 25°C, and Taghazout enjoys its best surf season with the winter swells. Marrakech stays sunny, at 18 to 20°C by day, but nights drop to around 5°C, with the snow-capped Atlas as a backdrop. The desert is pleasant by day but freezing at night, close to 0°C. The north (Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes) is cooler and noticeably wetter. Winter is the low season, with gentler prices, except during the Christmas and New Year holidays, the most expensive weeks of the year. For warmth and beaches, choose Agadir or Dakhla; for culture, Marrakech is very rewarding in winter.
Winter Temperatures in Morocco, Region by Region
| Destination | Day | Night | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dakhla | 23-25°C | Mild | Lagoon, kitesurfing, warmth |
| Agadir | Around 20°C | 8-10°C | Beach, resort hotels, families |
| Taghazout | Around 20°C | 8-10°C | Surf: peak season |
| Marrakech | 18-20°C | 5-6°C | Culture, riads, snowy Atlas |
| Merzouga (desert) | 18-22°C | Close to 0°C | Clear skies, dunes without the heat |
| Fes, Chefchaouen, Tangier | 15-17°C | 5-8°C, frequent rain | Medinas without the crowds |
Indicative averages from December to February; conditions can vary a lot from one year to the next.
Where to Get Warm: Dakhla, Agadir and Taghazout
Dakhla is the country's warmest destination in winter: a turquoise lagoon on the edge of the Sahara, steady wind that is ideal for kitesurfing, and European-summer temperatures in the middle of January. See our pick of the best hotels in Dakhla.
Agadir is the classic winter-sun destination: a 10 km sweep of sandy beach, beachfront hotels and direct flights from many European cities. The sea stays cool, around 17 to 18°C, but the sunshine is reliable. Our picks: the best beachfront hotels in Agadir.
Taghazout, 20 minutes north of Agadir, enjoys its best surf season in winter, when the Atlantic swells are most consistent. Beginners and experienced surfers alike will find suitable camps: see the best surf camps in Taghazout.
See Agadir hotels for this winter· Booking.com
See hotels in Dakhla· Booking.com
See surf stays in Taghazout· Booking.com
Marrakech in Winter: Sunny Days, Cool Evenings
Winter is an excellent season for Marrakech: no scorching heat, fewer crowds than in spring, and superb light over the snow-capped Atlas. Days are often sunny, but from sunset onwards you need a jacket. Riads, built in stone around an open courtyard, can be cold: check that yours is heated before booking. To choose your neighbourhood: where to stay in Marrakech. For excursions: the best day trips from Marrakech.
The Desert in Winter: Bright by Day, Freezing by Night
Winter is one of the best seasons for the Sahara: no scorching heat on the dunes, crystal-clear skies and very starry nights. The trade-off is that temperatures drop close to 0°C at night. Choose a camp with a heated tent or bring proper warm layers. Full details in our guide to the Merzouga desert and our pick of the best desert camps in Merzouga.
Snow and Skiing in the Atlas
Yes, you can see snow in Morocco: the High Atlas peaks are usually snow-capped in winter, and the resort of Oukaïmeden, about 80 km from Marrakech, offers skiing when there is enough snow, most often from January to March. Conditions vary a lot from year to year: check locally before you go. The village of Imlil, starting point for the Toubkal trek, then takes on the feel of a mountain resort.
Month by Month: December, January, February
- December: mild and sunny, but the Christmas and New Year holidays send prices soaring. See Morocco in December and New Year's Eve in Marrakech.
- January: the coolest and quietest month, ideal for tight budgets after the first week. January 14, Yennayer, the Amazigh New Year, is a public holiday. See Morocco in January.
- February: days get longer and almond trees blossom around Tafraoute. In 2027, Ramadan is expected to begin around February 8 (date to be confirmed): see travelling during Ramadan and Morocco in February.
FAQ — Morocco in Winter
Where is the warmest place in Morocco in winter?
Can you swim in Morocco in winter?
Is Marrakech cold in winter?
Can you visit the desert in winter?
Is winter cheaper for visiting Morocco?
In Short
For a sunny winter in Morocco:
- Warmth and beaches → Dakhla or Agadir.
- Surf → Taghazout, in peak season.
- Culture and riads → Marrakech, on sunny days.
- Desert → Merzouga, with a heated tent.
To pick the best time for what you want to do, see also the best time to visit Morocco.
