· Travel · 2 min read
Winter Desert Tours from Fez and Marrakech: What to Expect
Planning a winter desert trip in Morocco? Discover road conditions, weather, and why winter is a perfect season for desert tours from Fez and Marrakech.
Winter is a beautiful and popular time to explore the Moroccan desert. Desert tours from Fez and Marrakech remain safe, scenic, and very enjoyable during this season.
While the desert itself stays mild and sunny during the day, travelers should understand how winter weather can affect mountain routes.
Winter Weather on the Way to the Desert
Desert routes from Fez to Merzouga pass through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Cities like Ifrane and Midelt can experience cold temperatures, rain, or light snow in winter.
Routes from Marrakech to Merzouga or Zagora cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. At high elevations, winter can bring snow, wind, and cold air.
These conditions may cause short delays, but roads are paved and regularly monitored.
Desert Climate in Winter
Once you reach desert regions like Ouarzazate, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, and the Sahara, the weather becomes much calmer.
- Sunny days with comfortable temperatures
- Cold nights, especially in the dunes
- Clear skies and beautiful winter light
This makes winter ideal for camel rides, desert walks, and photography.
Are Winter Desert Tours Safe?
Yes, winter desert tours from Fez and Marrakech are generally very safe.
Tour operators use experienced drivers, modern vehicles, and updated weather checks. Routes are adapted if needed to ensure comfort and safety.
Booking guided desert tours from Fez to Merzouga or Marrakech to Zagora is the best way to travel in winter.
Why Winter Is a Great Time for Desert Tours
Winter offers many advantages:
- Fewer tourists
- Pleasant daytime temperatures
- Stunning landscapes with snow-capped mountains and golden dunes
You can enjoy long drives, scenic stops, and peaceful desert nights.
Book the Right Desert Tour
Many guided tours on our website connect Fez, Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and Merzouga, making winter travel smooth and worry-free.
Our popular 3-day desert tour from Fez to Merzouga is perfectly adapted for winter travel, with experienced drivers and scenic stops.
If you are starting from the south, the Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is one of the best options during winter.
With proper planning, winter is one of the best seasons to explore the Moroccan desert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to visit the Moroccan desert in winter?
Yes, visiting the Moroccan desert in winter is generally very safe. Most roads are paved and guided desert tours from Fez and Marrakech use experienced drivers and daily weather checks.
Does it snow on the way to the desert?
Snow can occur in the Atlas Mountains during winter, especially near Ifrane or the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. However, desert areas like Merzouga and Zagora remain dry and sunny.
How cold is the desert at night in winter?
Desert nights in winter can be cold, especially in the Sahara. Temperatures may drop close to freezing, but camps provide warm blankets and comfortable facilities.
Are desert tours available all year?
Yes, desert tours from Fez and Marrakech operate year-round. Winter is often preferred due to mild daytime temperatures and fewer crowds.