Many travelers imagine the Sahara as always hot, but Merzouga in winter is a different world: sunny, mild days, crystal-clear skies and cold, starry nights. From December to February the dunes of Erg Chebbi are quiet, the light is golden all day and camel rides are comfortable even at noon.
Weather in Merzouga from December to February
- Daytime: usually 15 to 22°C, sunny and dry.
- Night: often 0 to 5°C, sometimes slightly below zero in January.
- Rain: very rare. Wind can blow on some days, but sandstorms are less frequent than in spring.
Why winter is a great time to visit
- Comfortable temperatures for camel trekking, sandboarding and walking on the dunes.
- The clearest skies of the year for stargazing.
- Fewer crowds outside the Christmas and New Year week.
- Spectacular snow on the High Atlas peaks if you travel from Marrakech via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
What to pack for a winter night in the desert
- A warm jacket or down jacket, a fleece and a hat for the evening and sunrise.
- Thermal layers to sleep in; camps provide thick blankets and many have heated tents.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and a scarf: the winter sun is still strong.
- Closed shoes for the dunes in the morning, when the sand is cold.
For a full list, read our guide on what to wear and pack for Morocco and the Sahara.
Christmas and New Year in the Sahara
Celebrating the new year around a campfire under the stars, with Berber drums and a traditional dinner, is unforgettable. This is the busiest week of winter, so book your tour and camp early. Our luxury desert camp guide explains what to expect from the camps.
Getting to Merzouga in winter
Most travelers come on a 3-day tour from Marrakech or Fes. Have a look at our tours from Marrakech, tours from Fez and tours from Merzouga, and discover the best things to do in the Merzouga desert.