Marrakech in Winter: The Ultimate Packing Guide for December & January
By Red City Craft | Travel & Style
There is a common misconception that Morocco is a land of eternal summer. Travelers land in December or January expecting to lounge by the pool all day in a bikini, only to realize that while the sun is out, the air is crisp—and the nights are genuinely cold.
Marrakech in winter is arguably the best time to visit. The skies are a piercing blue, the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains are visible from the city, and the summer crowds have vanished. But if you don't pack right, you will spend your trip shivering.
Here is the honest truth about the weather and the Red City Craft curated packing list to keep you chic and warm.
The Weather Reality Check
Marrakech has a semi-arid climate. In winter, this means Extreme Temperature Swings.
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Daytime (10 AM - 4 PM): Glorious. Highs of 18°C to 23°C (65°F - 73°F). You can wear a t-shirt and sunglasses while lunching on a rooftop.
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Nighttime (5 PM - 9 AM): Freezing. Lows of 4°C to 8°C (40°F - 46°F). Riad walls are made of thick clay to keep heat out, which means your room can feel like an icebox if it doesn't have good heating.
🎒 The Packing List: The "Onion" Strategy
The secret is layers. You will peel them off at noon and put them back on at sunset.
1. The Daytime Uniform: Light Layers
The sun is still strong.
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What to Pack: Jeans, linen shirts, or a light Moroccan Djellaba.
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The Shoe: Sneakers or ankle boots are best for walking the Medina. Leave the flip-flops for the spa.
2. The Evening Essential: Velvet & Wool
Dinner in Marrakech is an event. Whether you are dining at Comptoir Darna or a quiet Riad, you need warmth that looks expensive.
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The Hero Piece: The Moroccan Velvet Caftan. This is the ultimate winter hack. The heavy velour fabric keeps you warm like a coat, but the gold embroidery and cut make you look like royalty.
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Style Tip: Wear our Royal Burgundy Velvet Caftan with boots and a leather jacket for a rock-chic vibe.
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The Outerwear: A Selham (Cape) or a heavy wool coat. A denim jacket is not enough for January nights.
3. The Accessories
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Scarves: Bring a large pashmina. It works as a scarf in the morning and a blanket on the rooftop terrace.
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Straw Bag: Winter calls for rich textures. Our Straw Weekender isn't just for travel; the Straw matches the winter aesthetic of the city perfectly.
❄️ Where to Find Snow (Yes, Snow)
Did you know you can ski in Morocco? Just 90 minutes from Marrakech lies Oukaïmeden, Africa's highest ski resort. Even if you don't ski, driving up to the snow line for lunch is a surreal experience—seeing palm trees and snow-capped peaks in the same view.
⚡ Experience It: Don't attempt to drive these icy mountain roads yourself. Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip or Atlas Mountains Day Trip
🏨 The "Heating" Warning
Crucial Advice for Booking
When booking your accommodation, check the reviews specifically for "Heating." Many traditional Riads use portable electric heaters that barely work.
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Pro Tip: Look for hotels or luxury Riads that advertise "Reversible AC" or "Fireplaces" (Cheminea). Nothing beats sitting by a wood fire in a Riad courtyard with a glass of red wine.
🎄 Spending Christmas & New Year's in Marrakech
Marrakech is a top destination for NYE. The city comes alive.
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The Vibe: It is festive but relaxed. Most restaurants offer set menus.
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What to Wear: This is the night to go all out. A Black & Gold Caftan or a Sapphire Blue Velvet Dress will ensure you fit right in at the high-end gala dinners where the dress code is often "Oriental Chic."
🛍️ The Winter Edit
Stay warm, look cool. Shop the collection.
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The Royal Burgundy Velvet Caftan - Your Winter Wedding Guest outfit sorted.
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The Emerald Green Velour Robe - Perfect for holiday parties.
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The Zellij Travel Bag - Rugged durability for winter travel.
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