The short answer
The days are not: December highs are about 19 °C, often with bright sun. The nights are, at about 7 °C, and riads with tiled floors and few heaters feel colder indoors than you expect. Pack a warm jumper and a light jacket. In the Atlas and the desert, nights fall near freezing.
In more detail
Our climate table gives December a high of about 19 °C and a low of about 7 °C, with some rainy days. Sunshine is common, and a sunny rooftop at midday can feel warm. The change comes fast at sunset, which in mid to late December is at about 17:35, so evenings start early and cool quickly.
Inside is the surprise. Traditional riads are built to stay cool in summer, with thick walls, tiled floors and an open courtyard, and that works against you in winter. Ask whether your room has heating and extra blankets. A hammam is the warmest place in town.
December is still a good month: fewer crowds until the Christmas rush, clear views of snow on the High Atlas behind the Koutoubia, and good desert weather. The busy period runs from about 19 December into early January, and the Moroccan school break of 6 to 13 December 2026 brings domestic families to the Agafay and the mountains.
Good to know
- Layers: T-shirt, jumper, jacket.
- A warm layer for rooftop dinners and the Agafay.
- Ask your riad about heating before you book.