Morocco is situated in the northwest corner of Africa. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea to the west-north. To the south, it is bordered by Western Sahara, a disputed territory. More than 37.08 million people live in the country.
Morocco has different types of weather across its territory. If you’re near the coast, it’s Mediterranean, which means mild, wet winters. But if you’re in the mountains, it’s colder in the winter. But the question remains.
Does it Snow in Morocco?
It does snow in Morocco. The Atlas Mountains, located in the center of the country, including the Middle Atlas, High Atlas, and Anti-Atlas ranges, experience significant snowfall during the winter months.
Besides, Marrakech and Ifrane, two ski resorts, receive regular snowfall each January and February. These areas are known for their winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding. In the Atlas Mountains, January is the coolest month, with an average temperature of 12.5°C (55°F).
When does it snow in Morocco? (December-February)
Snowfall in Morocco primarily occurs during the winter months, typically from December to February. March is the last month when the country experiences any shortage of snow. However, recent climate changes have pushed the snowfall forward to October and November.
Snow in December
In December, as winter arrives in Morocco, the weather varies depending on where you are. If you’re near the coast, like in Casablanca, you can expect pleasant daytime temperatures of around 17-18°C. Nights will be cool, with temperatures around 8-9°C.
If you head into the desert areas, like Marrakech, it’s a bit warmer. In December, you’ll find daytime highs of 18-19°C and nighttime lows of 6-7°C.
Now, if you venture up into the mountainous areas, like Ifrane, it gets even colder. During the day, temperatures hover around 10-11°C; at night, it can drop close to freezing, at 0-1°C. As a result, it may snow in December (at the start of winter month).
As for rainfall, coastal cities like Rabat get about 13 millimeters (0.51 inches) of precipitation, while Ifrane in the mountains receives a substantial 140 millimeters (5.5 inches) of snow and rain.
Snow in January
January is the coldest month in Morocco. Coastal cities like Rabat have daytime temperatures of 17-18°C and nighttime temperatures of 8-9°C. But it gets even colder if you go up into the mountains, like Ifrane. You’ll encounter subzero temperatures of -1°C in this high-altitude town. January also brings snow, especially in the Atlas Mountains, turning the landscape into a snowy wonderland.
Snow in March
In March, Morocco starts transitioning from winter to spring. Along the coast, cities like Rabat experience average low temperatures of 10.4°C (50.7°F). Precipitation remains moderate, with about 12 millimeters (0.47 inches) of rainfall.
Where does it snow in Morocco?
The entire Atlas mountain range, including the High Atlas, Middle Atlas, and Anti-Atlas, can experience snowfall in various areas during winter.
Snow in High Atlas
The High Atlas Mountains in Morocco offer a stunning winter spectacle with their snow-covered peaks and valleys. This majestic mountain range experiences snowfall during winter, typically from November to March.
Marrakech, a bustling city at the foothills of the High Atlas, is often the starting point for travelers venturing into this snowy wonderland. As you ascend into the mountains, the temperature drops and the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland.
The village of Imlil, nestled in the heart of the High Atlas, provides access to Toubkal National Park, home to North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal. Here, you’ll encounter snow-capped peaks and pristine, snow-covered trails that beckon hikers and trekkers.
Oukaïmeden, one of Africa’s highest ski resorts, is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. It consistently receives substantial snowfall, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities against a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
The High Atlas Mountains’ snowfall not only creates a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts but also preserves the region’s unique culture and lifestyle, where local Berber communities have adapted to the challenges and beauty of the snowy season.
Snow in the Middle Atlas
The Middle Atlas Mountains in Morocco are a picturesque landscape that undergoes a captivating transformation during winter when they experience snowfall. This mountain range in central-northern Morocco offers a unique opportunity to witness a winter wonderland in a region otherwise known for its warm, arid climate.
Anti Atlas
The Anti-Atlas Mountains, also known as the Lesser Atlas Mountains, are a rugged and less-visited mountain range located in southwestern Morocco. While they are less well-known than the High Atlas or Middle Atlas, the Anti-Atlas Mountains have their unique charm and occasionally experience snowfall during winter.
The Anti-Atlas Mountains are situated south of the High Atlas Mountains and extend to the border with the Sahara Desert.
Popular Places to Enjoy Snowfall in Morocco
Snowfall in Ifrane
Located in the Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane is known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” It sits at an elevation of around 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level.
Ifrane experiences heavy snowfall during winter, transforming it into a picturesque winter wonderland. Temperatures in winter can drop significantly, rarely exceeding 10°C (50.5°F). The month with the most snow in Ifrane is January (average 5.7 inches)
Snowfall in Imlil
This small Berber village, nestled in the High Atlas Mountains at an elevation of 1,800 meters (5,900 feet), turns into a winter wonderland each year.
Snow decorates walnut trees and houses on the mountainside, creating a stunning scene. Winter temperatures in Imlil can be chilly, making it an ideal destination for snow lovers.
Snowfall in Midelt
Known as the “capital of apples,” Midelt is located between the High Atlas and Middle Atlas Mountain ranges. It experiences a snowy climate in the winter, with temperatures sometimes dropping to -10°C (14°F).
While these extreme conditions are relatively short-lived, Midelt offers a unique winter experience. January is the month with the most snowfall. A total of 63mm of snow is accumulated over 4.5 days on average during the month.
Ski Resorts in Morocco
Oukaimeden
Situated in the High Atlas Mountains, not far from Marrakech, Oukaimeden offers one of Africa’s top ski resorts. It boasts an altitude ranging from 2,650 meters (8,700 feet) to 3,250 meters (10,600 feet).
The ski season typically runs from December to March, with ample snowfall. The area has a colder winter climate, making it ideal for snow sports. Week 3 of February is the snowiest week, with 2.1 snowy days and 3.9 inches of snowfall, according to snow-forecast.com.
Michlifen
Michlifen is another well-known ski resort in the Middle Atlas region, near the city of Ifrane. Like Oukaimeden, Michlifen experiences significant snowfall during the winter season.
The snowiest week in Michlifen is week 3 of January. This week’s average snowfall is 11 cm, with 1.5 snowy days. The annual average snowfall is 62.”
Winter in Morocco (December-February)
Winter in Morocco typically spans from December to February. Sometimes, it may extend to March. During this season, Morocco experiences cooler temperatures and varying weather conditions.
People can experience snow in the mountains. Along the coast, cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Essaouira have milder winter climates compared to the interior. While it’s cooler, it’s still relatively comfortable for outdoor activities and exploring coastal attractions. Morocco’s desert regions, such as Marrakech and the Sahara, enjoy milder temperatures during the day but can get chilly at night. Snowfall in the desert is extremely rare.
Have a look at the table to understand Moroccan winter temperatures:
| Region | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) |
| Coastal Areas | December: 17-18°C | December: 8-9°C |
| (e.g., Casablanca) | January: 17-18°C | January: 8-9°C |
| February: 17-18°C | February: 8-9°C | |
| Desert Regions | December: 18-19°C | December: 6-7°C |
| (e.g., Marrakech) | January: 18-19°C | January: 4-5°C |
| February: 18-19°C | February: 4-5°C | |
| Mountainous Areas | December: 10-11°C | December: 0-1°C |
| (e.g., Ifrane) | January: 10-11°C | January: 0-1°C |
| February: 10-11°C | February: 0-1°C |
Winter Activities to Enjoy In Morocco
We have created a short table to help you understand when and what winter activity you can enjoy in different places of Morocco.
| Place Name | Best Time to Go | Things to Do |
| Ifrane | December – March | Skiing, Snowboarding, Trekking, national Park, Cedar forest, Hill station |
| Oukaimeden | December – March | Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Walks, Climbing Toubkal summit |
| Imlil | January – February | Trekking, Summiting Jebel Toubkal |
| Midelt | December – February | Snow Exploration, Local Culture |
Why does it snow in Morocco?
Geography and Elevation
The Atlas Mountains, including the High Atlas and Middle Atlas ranges, contribute to snowfall due to their higher elevations.
Winter Temperatures
During the winter months, temperatures in mountainous areas can drop low enough to support snowfall. Snow is more likely to fall in elevated regions due to colder temperatures.
European Influence
Morocco can be affected by weather systems from Europe. As a result, the air gets colder, and higher elevations may see snowfall.
Uncommon Phenomenon
While snow is not a regular occurrence in most parts of Morocco, it remains a unique and less common meteorological phenomenon in the country.
