Things to Do in Tangier in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Tangier
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect mild temperatures for walking the medina - December's 9-17°C (49-62°F) range means comfortable exploration without summer's exhausting heat that can reach 35°C (95°F)
- Fewer European tourists than peak summer months - accommodation prices drop 30-40% from July-August rates, and popular spots like Café Hafa have breathing room
- Clear Atlantic views from Cap Spartel - winter's cleaner air and lower humidity provide exceptional visibility across to Spain, often 25-30km (15-19 miles) on clear days
- Authentic local atmosphere during Ramadan preparation season - markets buzz with special ingredients and traditional winter foods like harira soup become central to daily life
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain patterns - December's 130mm (5.1 inches) can fall in sudden downpours that flood narrow medina streets within 20 minutes, disrupting outdoor plans
- Many rooftop terraces close early - popular sunset spots shut down by 6pm due to cool evening temperatures and damp conditions
- Shorter daylight hours limit activity time - sunrise at 8:15am and sunset at 6:30pm give just 10 hours for sightseeing compared to 14 hours in summer
Best Activities in December
Medina Walking Tours and Artisan Workshops
December's cool temperatures make extended medina exploration comfortable - you can spend 4-5 hours wandering without heat exhaustion. The cooler weather also means artisan workshops (metalworkers, leather tanners, textile weavers) are more active and welcoming to visitors. Rain creates atmospheric moments in covered souks.
Hercules Caves and Cap Spartel Coastal Tours
Winter storms create dramatic Atlantic wave action at Hercules Caves, providing spectacular photo opportunities impossible in calm summer months. December's clear air offers the best visibility for spotting Spain across the strait - often crystal clear at 14km (8.7 miles) distance.
Traditional Hammam and Spa Experiences
December's damp 70% humidity makes traditional hammam treatments especially beneficial - the contrast between cool outside air and warm steam rooms feels therapeutic. Many hammams offer winter-specific treatments using argan oil and local herbs that aren't featured in hot months.
Cooking Classes and Market Tours
December brings seasonal ingredients like winter citrus, pomegranates, and root vegetables perfect for traditional tagines. Market tours become educational experiences as vendors explain seasonal produce cycles. Indoor cooking activities provide perfect rainy day alternatives.
Chefchaouen Day Trips
December transforms the blue city into a mystical destination - morning fog rolling through blue-painted streets creates otherworldly photography conditions impossible in summer. Cooler temperatures make the 2.5-hour journey and mountain walking comfortable.
Museums and Indoor Cultural Sites
December's unpredictable weather makes indoor attractions crucial. The American Legation Museum, Kasbah Museum, and Forbes Museum provide fascinating historical context. December visitors often have these spaces nearly to themselves, enabling detailed exploration.
December Events & Festivals
Mawlid an-Nabi Celebrations
Prophet Muhammad's birthday brings religious processions through the medina, special sweets in markets, and increased mosque activity. Respectful observers can witness authentic spiritual traditions rarely seen by tourists.
Winter Solstice at Cap Spartel
December 21st draws locals to Africa's northwestern point for sunset ceremonies marking the longest night. Informal gatherings include traditional music and mint tea sharing as darkness falls at 6:30pm.