North Africa in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Mediterranean Coast (northern Morocco, northern Algeria, Tunisia, coastal Libya, northern Egypt)

Damp, unsettled weather returns in December with recurrent Atlantic fronts across Morocco and Algeria giving a mix of rainy days and clear intervals; Tunisia and Egypt are generally cooler but still drier than the west. Coastal resorts are off-season and many beachfront facilities operate on limited hours - good for quieter visits and lower rates. Bring waterproof footwear and warm layers for night-time strolls along harbours or promenades.

Atlas & Rif Highlands (Morocco, northern Algeria, Tunisia)

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Sahara Desert & Oases (Western Sahara, Mauritania, southern Morocco, southern Algeria, southern Libya, Egyptian Western Desert)

December features bright, dry days and surprisingly cold nights in the Sahara - in some desert basins temperatures near freezing are possible after sunset, especially away from the coast and in higher plateaus. Daytime warmth makes site visits pleasant, but campers should have cold-night gear. This is a low-humidity, low-rain month that suits photography and calm desert itineraries.

Nile Valley & Delta (Egypt - Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan)

December is mild along the Nile with short, cool nights and abundant sunshine: daytime temperatures in Cairo are typically in the mid-teens to low 20s and Luxor remains pleasantly warm. The lack of rain and moderate conditions make December popular for tourist groups; book river cruises and popular hotels well in advance. Pack layers for chilly early mornings, especially on deck or in desert-adjacent towns.

Red Sea Coast & Eastern Desert (Egypt’s Red Sea resorts, eastern Libya/Cyrenaica coast)

December remains warm relative to much of the Mediterranean and continental interiors: daytime temperatures sit around the low 20s and sea conditions support diving activities with minimal swell. Holiday travel increases in some weeks but overall the Red Sea coast stays far calmer than inland desert regions. Pack a light jacket for evenings and a short-sleeve wardrobe for daytime reef work.