If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Tamanrasset, you’ll find a holiday climate that’s worlds away from what most people picture. By late December, daytime temperatures usually hover near 20°C (68°F), while nights can drop sharply to about 5°C (41°F).
The air stays dry, skies are mostly clear, and rainfall barely makes an appearance. You get stable conditions that are perfect for exploring the Sahara.
Winter days here are short, with about 11 hours of daylight. Still, the sun shines strong for much of that time.
The UV index drops compared to summer, but it’s still high enough that you should be careful if you’re outside for long stretches. Nights bring a crisp desert chill, so packing layers becomes just as important as sunscreen.
This blend of mild afternoons, cold evenings, and bright desert skies gives holiday travel a unique vibe. Whether you’re eyeing the Hoggar Mountains, a desert trek, or just want to soak in the quiet, the weather shapes your experience in ways that stick with you.
Overview of Tamanrasset’s December Climate
Tamanrasset sits deep in southern Algeria, right in the Sahara. Elevation and desert conditions make its weather stand out.
December brings mild afternoons, cool nights, almost zero rain, and long hours of sunshine. Many travelers consider it one of the most comfortable months to visit.
Location and Climate Zone
Tamanrasset sits at about 1,370 meters (4,490 feet) above sea level, right in the central Sahara. Its spot in the Ahaggar Mountains sets it apart from lower desert towns, where temperatures get more extreme.
You’ll find a subtropical desert climate (BWh) here. That means hot summers, dry air, and winters that actually feel cool. Elevation helps take the edge off the heat, so you skip the brutal highs seen in northern Sahara basins.
Humidity stays low, often near 30%, and rain is rare all year. This combo keeps skies clear and sunlight strong, which really defines December weather here.
Weather Patterns in December
Daytime highs in December usually hit 22–23°C (71–73°F). Nights cool off fast, dipping to around 7–8°C (45–46°F), so you’ll want a light jacket after sunset.
Rain barely happens. December averages 0–1 mm of precipitation, and you might only see a single rainy day if you’re lucky. Skies stay bright, with about 245 hours of sunshine in the month.
Winds generally stay light to moderate, and visibility is almost always excellent. The dry air and steady patterns mean you can count on the weather not throwing any surprises your way. December is one of the easiest months for planning outdoor activities in Tamanrasset.
Comparison to Other Months
July and August bring the kind of heat that’s hard to forget—highs can shoot past 35°C (95°F). December, on the other hand, feels much cooler and way more comfortable.
September is the wettest month and sees a few short storms, but December stays almost bone-dry.
Spring months like March and April offer similar daytime warmth, but stronger winds can make things feel dustier. Winter months, especially January and February, share the same dry skies but might get a bit colder at night.
For travel comfort, December is hard to beat. Warm afternoons, crisp evenings, and reliable sunshine—without the extremes or the hassle of rain.
Typical Temperatures Around Christmas
Christmas in Tamanrasset brings some of the coolest weather you’ll see all year. Days feel mild compared to the blazing summer, but nights can get pretty cold thanks to the desert air.
The swing between day and night temps stands out the most during this season.
Average Daytime Highs
In late December, you’ll usually see daytime highs around 19–21°C (66–70°F). That’s a far cry from summer, when highs often soar above 33°C (91°F).
The sun still packs a punch, and with 10–11 hours of daylight, afternoons feel just right for being outside. The dry air makes the warmth less intense than what you’d get in coastal cities.
Light clothing works for most days, but a light jacket comes in handy if clouds roll in or the wind picks up. Compared to northern Algeria, the weather here is more predictable and doesn’t swing wildly.
Nighttime Lows
Nights around Christmas get much colder than the afternoons. Lows average about 5–7°C (41–45°F), and the dry desert air can make it feel even chillier.
Once the sun sets, temperatures drop fast. You’ll notice the chill within an hour of dusk.
This sharp cooling is just how deserts work—there’s not much moisture to hold onto the heat.
If you’re planning to be out in the evening, bring warm layers. A sweater or heavier jacket is a must, especially if you’re camping or hanging out away from heated spaces.
Temperature Range and Variability
The gap between daytime highs and nighttime lows is big—often 12–15°C (22–27°F). That’s one of the key features of Tamanrasset’s December weather.
Conditions usually stay dry, but wind or cloud cover can make things feel warmer or colder. For example, a clear night feels colder than one with a few clouds because heat escapes faster.
Afternoons tend to be steady, but you’ll want to prep for the sharp nighttime drop. This swing is part of what makes the desert climate unique—and something to keep in mind during the holidays.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
Tamanrasset lives up to its desert reputation with barely any rain all year. By late December, rainfall is basically negligible, and the air stays dry and clear.
Average Rainfall Amounts
Rainfall in Tamanrasset is hard to come by. The city only gets about 30–35 mm (1.2–1.4 in) of rain per year, which is among the lowest amounts in Algeria.
By December, the rainiest season is already over—August and September usually bring the most.
December typically sees about 1–2 mm of rain, and that’s often just brief, light showers instead of anything steady. For a quick comparison:
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| August | 6–7 mm | 2 days |
| September | 7–8 mm | 2 days |
| December | 1–2 mm | 1 day |
So, December is one of the driest months, and rain won’t really mess with your travel plans.
Chance of Rainy Days
You’ll almost never run into rain in December. On average, there’s about 1 rainy day during the month, and even then, it’s usually just a quick, light shower.
Most days are totally dry, and clear skies rule the forecast. Unlike Algeria’s coastal regions, where winter brings more rain, Tamanrasset stays dry thanks to its inland spot and higher elevation.
Expect long stretches of dry weather—great news if you’re planning outdoor adventures or long drives.
Humidity Levels
Humidity in Tamanrasset stays low, especially in winter. December’s relative humidity usually sits between 25% and 35%, so the air feels very dry.
You won’t get sticky or damp conditions, even if one of those rare showers passes through. The dry air also means nights cool off more, since there’s not much moisture to trap the heat.
If you’re not used to desert climates, you might notice dry skin or mild discomfort. Carrying water and using a light moisturizer can help you adjust, so you can enjoy the clear, calm weather.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Late December in Tamanrasset still brings plenty of sunlight, especially compared to other places this time of year. The Sahara’s dry climate means skies stay mostly clear, giving you bright days even when it’s cool.
Average Daily Sunshine
You’ll get about 7 hours and 42 minutes of direct sunshine per day in December. That’s a bit less than the yearly average of about 9 hours and 15 minutes, but it’s still plenty for outdoor plans.
Most days are clear, with around 73% of daylight hours sunny and only about 27% touched by clouds or haze. Even on the shortest days, the desert stays bright.
Compared to summer, when sunshine can top 10 hours a day, December has fewer hours but still beats many winter destinations. Sightseeing, photography, and day trips are all doable without the harsh glare of midsummer.
Daylight Duration in December
December brings the shortest days of the year, with about 10 hours and 45 minutes of daylight from sunrise to sunset. That’s almost three hours less than June, but it’s still a good chunk of usable daylight.
At solar noon around December 21, the sun sits at about 43.8° above the horizon. This lower angle means softer light and longer shadows—pretty ideal for landscapes and photos.
Daylight stays steady throughout December, so you won’t notice big changes week to week. That makes planning excursions a little easier, since you can count on nearly 11 hours of daylight each day.
Wind Conditions During December
Winds in Tamanrasset during December usually stay moderate and steady, shaped by the dry desert and surrounding mountains. Breezes are noticeable but rarely get in the way, so outdoor activities are generally comfortable if you’re prepared.
Average Wind Speed
Average wind speeds in December usually range from 10 to 15 km/h (6 to 9 mph). That’s light to moderate—nothing too wild.
You might notice stronger gusts in open desert spots compared to sheltered valleys. The high plateau location means winds can feel cooler than the actual air temp, especially in the evening when things drop near 7°C (45°F).
Calm periods, especially overnight, are pretty common. December is one of the more pleasant months for travelers since spring brings stronger winds and more dust.
Prevailing Wind Directions
December winds usually blow from the northeast and east, shaped by the big Saharan air patterns. These winds carry dry desert air, which keeps humidity super low.
Sometimes, you’ll catch northwesterly breezes when cooler air drifts down from the Atlas Mountains. These shifts can make the days feel a little cooler, but conditions stay dry.
Since these winds don’t bring much moisture, you won’t get damp or stormy weather. The airflow helps keep skies clear and the weather steady, which is classic for Tamanrasset’s winter desert climate.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tamanrasset at Christmas
December brings mild days, cool nights, and almost no rain. Packing smart and prepping for the dry desert air will help keep your trip comfortable and hassle-free.
Recommended Clothing
Daytime highs in December usually reach 21–22 °C (70–72 °F), but nights often fall to 7–8 °C (44–46 °F). So, you’ll want to dress in layers.
Wear lightweight shirts or long sleeves for daytime comfort in the sun. In the evenings, bring a warm sweater or fleece jacket and a light coat for when the temperature drops. A scarf or shawl can also help if things change suddenly.
The dry air means lip balm and a moisturizer are good to have, so your skin doesn’t dry out. Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat will protect you from the strong desert sun, which doesn’t let up even in winter.
For footwear, go for comfortable walking shoes or boots. The terrain around the Hoggar Mountains is rocky and uneven, so sturdy soles matter. If you’re heading out into the desert, skip the sandals—the sand can be hot during the day and gets cold at night.
Weather-Related Travel Advice
Rain barely shows up in December—just 2 mm on average. You probably won’t need heavy rain gear, but the dry air sneaks up on you, so drink water often to dodge dehydration, even if it doesn’t feel that hot out.
Bring a refillable water bottle when you head outside. Low humidity tricks you into thinking you’re not thirsty, but trust me, your body’s still losing moisture fast.
The sun? It’s strong here. Make sure you put on sunscreen during the day. Even if the air feels cool, UV levels stay high at Tamanrasset’s altitude of about 1,370 meters (4,500 ft).
Sometimes the wind kicks up dust in the open desert. A light face covering or scarf can save you from breathing in sand.
If you’re planning to leave the city, check road conditions first. Desert tracks get rough, and cooler nights sometimes bring morning haze that messes with visibility.
Honestly, hiring a local driver usually makes things a lot safer.