Renting a Car in Morocco: What To Know Before You Drive

Morocco is a country with a vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and historic landmarks. Although discovering the cities and deserts of Morocco with guided tours remains an all-time favourite option, there is one specific and rewarding way of experiencing the place firsthand, and that is, car rental in Casablanca.

A road trip in a rental car gives you the liberty to visit distant villages, scenic coastlines, and majestic mountain ranges according to your convenience. But before you venture onto Morocco's roads, it is essential to be properly prepared.

In this travel guide, we will highlight key car rental tips in Morocco to make your experience hassle-free and enjoyable.

Select the Right Car for Your Travel

The initial process of car rental in Morocco is to select an appropriate car. Morocco is a geographically diverse country, and as such, the car that you will require largely depends on the places that you will likely be going.

Small Cars: If you're going to be in cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, or Fes, a small car is a great choice. Small cars are simple to manoeuvre in narrow city streets and are a fuel-efficient option for city driving.
4x4 Cars: For Morocco's mountainous countryside, i.e., the Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert, or rural villages, a 4x4 would be advisable. 4x4 cars are more capable of handling Morocco's at times rough and unmetalled roads.

Rent a car that is in good running order, with functional air conditioning (an essential prerequisite for the Moroccan summer heat), and get the spare tyre, jack, and other ancillary equipment checked. For well-maintained rental cars at affordable prices, check out OneClickDrive.

Familiarize Yourself with Driving Regulations and Laws

Before driving in Morocco, it is advisable to know the traffic regulations and laws in the country. Although the majority of the laws are the same as in Western nations, there are specific things to keep in mind:

Driving License: You are to present a valid driving license from your country of origin, and in some cases, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also mandatory.
Seat Belts: Seat belts are a must for the driver as well as for all the passengers. Ensure everyone seated in the car is wearing a seat belt before you start your journey.
Speed Limits: The speed limit within the city is usually 60 km/h (37 mph), and on highways and rural roads, it is as much as 100 km/h (62 mph). Observe speed limits and always follow road signs.
Road Signs and Traffic Lights: The majority of road signs are in French and Arabic, although they are easy to read, and principal road signs (e.g., speed limit, warning signs) are standard.

Ensure you carry your driving license, passport, rental contract, and insurance documents with you while driving at all times.

Roads and Petrol Stations

Morocco boasts a great network of highways and interregional roads, and filling stations are readily available close to large cities and along major roads. However, when driving in the countryside, it is advisable to fill up your tank since filling stations can be scarce.

Besides, ensure you possess a map or GPS unit. Although large roads are easy to spot, having a navigation device or a local internet-enabled SIM card will help you avoid getting lost.

Best Road Trip Routes in Morocco

Renting a luxury car in Casablanca provides the opportunity to drive at your leisure. Some of the best routes are:

Marrakech to Atlas Mountains: Drive along to the beautiful Atlas Mountains, which have scenery, Berber villages, and trekking trails.
Marrakech to Essaouira: Drive along this coastal road from Marrakech, the desert capital, to Essaouira, the sea jewel, with beaches and fish restaurants in between.
Fes to Chefchaouen: Drive along the Rif Mountains to the blue-painted town of Chefchaouen, nestled in the mountains.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Lastly, preparing for the unexpected is always a good idea. In Morocco, rural roads may sometimes be less predictable, with animals, pedestrians, or road conditions that can be challenging. Carry a phone, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. If you’re unfamiliar with local driving practices or terrain, consider hiring a guide or using an experienced driver for some of the more difficult parts of your journey.

With proper planning, familiarization with local driving laws, and the appropriate car for your tour, your Moroccan road trip will be one to remember. So, buckle up and prepare yourself to witness the grandeur, history, and warmth of Morocco!