Western Sahara in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Atlantic Coast (Laâyoune-Boujdour corridor)

December returns to quiet, cool coastal conditions with crisp mornings and daytime highs typically in the mid-to-high teens. Coastal winds can be blustery and the odd low-pressure system will produce the year’s most likely rain, though long dry spells remain the norm. It’s an understated winter - bring a warm jacket for evenings and you’ll find Laâyoune calm and relatively uncrowded for visits to museums and cafes.

Dakhla Peninsula and Lagoon

December’s coastal mornings can be brisk with temperatures between 15-20°C in Dakhla; the lagoon is quieter and the town settles into a slow rhythm. Occasional low clouds and splashy Atlantic swells occur but heavy rain remains uncommon. For travellers seeking solitude and steady winds on select days, December offers calm enjoyment of the lagoon - just bring layered clothing and a wetsuit for cooler water.

Interior Hamada and Oases (Smara and surrounding desert)

December returns to clear sun and very cool nights inland, with daytime highs commonly in the high teens to low twenties and nighttime temperatures that may approach single digits. The desert’s dryness is at its most obvious-humidity is negligible and stars are brilliant on cloudless nights. Bring warm layers for evening and early morning, and arrange logistics ahead as some services scale back in the off-season.

Southern Sand Sea and Border Plains (Aousserd, Bir Gandouz area)

December brings mild, sunny days and crisp nights - daytime highs around the high teens to low twenties and star-filled evenings. The southern plains are quiet and travel-friendly, with excellent visibility for long-distance photography and stargazing. For visitors, this is a comfortable time to explore remote dune systems with guided support and reliable transport.