The week between Christmas and 2 January is Morocco’s busiest travel period. Three very different ways to welcome the new year stand out: under the stars in the Sahara, in the lively medina of Marrakech, or in the mild Atlantic weather of Dakhla.
New Year’s Eve in the Sahara (Merzouga)
Desert camps in the Erg Chebbi dunes host a New Year dinner with Berber music, drums around the fire and a sky with almost no light pollution. From Marrakech the classic option is a three-day tour via Aït Benhaddou and the Dades or Todra gorges; from Fes the drive is about 7–8 hours. Nights can drop close to 0°C, so camps provide thick blankets — bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves.
New Year in Marrakech
Jemaa el-Fna stays busy late into the night and many riads, hotels and restaurants run gala dinners that need booking in advance. Combine it with a sunrise hot-air balloon flight, a day in the Atlas Mountains or an evening in the Agafay desert, about 40 minutes away.
A warm New Year in Dakhla
If you prefer sunshine, Dakhla usually sees 20–25°C during the day in late December. Spend the holidays on lagoon trips to the White Dune and Dragon Island, try kitesurfing or wingfoil, and taste the local oysters.
Booking tips for the holiday season
- Book one to three months ahead — departures between 28 December and 2 January fill first.
- Expect higher prices that week, especially for private tours and luxury camps.
- Heavy snow can briefly close the Tizi n’Tichka pass; allow a buffer day before your flight home.
- Pre-book your airport transfer for late-night arrivals.
New Year in Morocco FAQ
Is New Year’s Eve in the Sahara worth it?
For many travellers, yes: desert camps around Merzouga hold a New Year dinner with Berber music, a bonfire and a sky full of stars. It is the busiest week of the year, so book early and expect higher prices.
How cold is Merzouga at New Year?
Days are usually mild (around 15–20°C) but desert nights can drop close to 0°C. Camps provide thick blankets; bring a warm jacket, hat and layers for the evening and the sunrise camel ride.
When should I book a New Year desert trip?
Ideally one to three months ahead. Departures between 28 December and 2 January fill first, especially private tours and luxury camps.
What is New Year’s Eve like in Marrakech?
Jemaa el-Fna and the medina stay lively, and many riads, hotels and restaurants run gala dinners that need advance booking. Alcohol is served only in licensed venues, so check before you reserve.
Can snow close the road to the Sahara in winter?
Occasionally. Heavy snow can close the Tizi n’Tichka pass over the High Atlas for a few hours or a day. Good operators watch the forecast and adjust the route or timing.
Where can I spend New Year in Morocco with warm weather?
Dakhla and Agadir are the mildest options, with daytime temperatures often around 20–25°C in late December. Dakhla adds lagoon trips and kitesurfing.
What should I pack for New Year in the desert?
A warm down or fleece jacket, hat, gloves, scarf against wind and sand, closed shoes, a headlamp and sunglasses. A power bank helps because camps have limited charging.