Traveling to Morocco by car? Tips, requirements, and travel options

Traveling to Morocco by car is a unique experience that allows you to explore the country at your own pace, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in the local culture. From the Mediterranean coast to the desert dunes of the Sahara, Morocco offers countless fascinating destinations, and doing it by car gives you a freedom that other means of transport cannot provide. However, to ensure your trip is pleasant and hassle-free, it’s important to know the requirements, routes, and options for traveling to this exotic destination.

In this article, we provide all the information you need to organize your trip to Morocco by car, including driving requirements, the best routes, and the most convenient ferry options to cross from Spain.

Why travel to Morocco by car? Advantages of this trip

Traveling to Morocco by car has numerous advantages that go beyond the simple convenience of traveling at your own pace. Below, we highlight some of the main reasons why this option is one of the most attractive:

1. Freedom and flexibility: Driving through Morocco gives you the opportunity to explore the country in a way that flights or organized tours cannot offer. You can stop in any city, town, or attraction you want, and change plans without restrictions. Interested in visiting the desert or exploring the Atlas Mountains? Your car is your best companion!
2. Access to remote places: Some of Morocco’s hidden gems, such as small rural villages or desert areas, are not always easily accessible by public transport. Having your own car allows you to reach these places outside the traditional tourist routes.
3. Comfort: Traveling by car gives you more comfort. You have your own space, can carry more luggage, and stop whenever you need without depending on schedules or other travelers. Plus, you can enjoy panoramic views as you drive through stunning landscapes.
4. Adventure: If you’re a road trip lover, Morocco is an ideal destination. From the Rif mountains to the Atlantic coast, the road journeys are truly fascinating. Crossing from Europe to Africa is an adventure in itself, especially by ferry.
5. Savings: If you travel with several companions, sharing a car can be more economical than paying for multiple plane tickets or public transport, especially if you plan to visit several cities.
6. Culture and gastronomy: Traveling by car lets you stop at local markets, restaurants, and cafés that you wouldn’t otherwise discover. You can taste authentic Moroccan food in its place of origin and experience the culture in a more intimate and genuine way.

What are the best routes for traveling to Morocco by car?

Depending on how much time you have, you can plan different itineraries to explore Morocco by car. Here we present three recommended options based on the number of days you want to dedicate to your adventure.

1. Short itinerary (4-5 days)

If you have only a few days and want to make the most of your trip, the best option is to focus on a specific region of Morocco. A short itinerary lets you explore a main city and its surroundings. A popular option is:

• Day 1: Arrival in Tangier: Start your trip in Tangier, a port city that offers a unique mix of Arab, Spanish, and French influences. Visit the old town (medina), the port, and the city walls.
• Day 2: Chefchaouen: From Tangier, drive to Chefchaouen, known for its blue-painted buildings and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to walk through its streets and enjoy the beauty of the Rif.
• Day 3: Fez: If you have time, continue to Fez, one of Morocco’s most historic cities, famous for its medieval medina and bustling souks.
• Day 4: Return to Tangier: End your trip by returning to Tangier and enjoy one last afternoon in the city.

2. Medium itinerary (7-10 days)

If you have a week, we recommend an itinerary that lets you explore some of Morocco’s most emblematic cities, as well as its rural landscapes.

• Days 1-2: Arrival in Tangier and Chefchaouen: Start as in the short itinerary, visiting Tangier and Chefchaouen.
• Days 3-4: Fez: Leave Chefchaouen and head to Fez. Enjoy the medina, historic monuments, and famous souks.
• Day 5: Ifrane and the Atlas Mountains: Travel to Ifrane, a city known for its European-style architecture, then continue to the Atlas Mountains.
• Days 6-7: Marrakech: Spend a couple of days in Marrakech exploring Jemaa el-Fna square, the Majorelle Gardens, and the medina.
• Days 8-9: Ourika Valley and desert: Explore areas near the desert and the Ourika Valley, at the foothills of the Atlas.
• Day 10: Return to Tangier: Head back to Tangier to finish your route.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a bit of everything: historic cities, mountains, valleys, and the edge of the desert.

3. Long itinerary (12-14 days)

For the more adventurous, a long trip is the best option to explore Morocco in depth.

• Days 1-3: Tangier and Chefchaouen: Enjoy these two cities as in the previous itineraries.
• Days 4-6: Fez and the Cedar Forests: Spend a few days exploring Fez and visit the cedar forests in the Middle Atlas.
• Days 7-8: Erfoud and the Sahara Dunes: Head towards the desert, passing through Erfoud, and take an excursion into the Sahara dunes.
• Days 9-11: Marrakech: Explore the “red city” and its surroundings.
• Days 12-14: Casablanca and Rabat: End your journey in Casablanca and Rabat, enjoying the Atlantic coast and the modern atmosphere of these two cities.

This itinerary is perfect for those who want to fully experience Morocco’s cultural, geographical, and historical diversity.

Main ferry routes for traveling to Morocco with a car

The crossing between Spain and Morocco is mainly done by ferry, and there are several routes available:

1. Tarifa - Tangier Ville: The most popular route, with frequent departures and a duration of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
2. Algeciras - Tangier Med: Another common option, with a duration of 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. Algeciras - Ceuta: Through Ceuta, you can cross to Morocco on a ferry that lasts about 1 hour.
4. Motril - Nador: From Motril, Granada, you can travel to Nador in about 6 hours.
5. Motril - Al Hoceima: A shorter route connecting Motril with Al Hoceima, lasting about 3 hours.
6. Almería - Nador: This route connects Almería with Nador, taking about 6 hours.
7. Barcelona - Tangier Med: From Barcelona, there are ferries to Tangier Med lasting about 30 hours.

Each of these routes offers different advantages depending on your departure point and preferred travel duration. Make sure to choose the one that best fits your itinerary.

What requirements must I meet to drive in Morocco?

Before starting your road trip to Morocco, it’s important to meet certain legal and practical requirements:

1. License: You need a valid driver’s license. If you are an EU resident, your Spanish driver’s license is valid in Morocco. However, if you are from outside the EU, make sure to carry an international driving permit.
2. Car insurance: The car insurance must cover driving in Morocco. Make sure your policy includes third-party liability and accidents abroad. Some insurance companies offer specific coverage for Morocco.
3. Car documents: Always carry your car’s documents (registration, circulation permit) and a copy of the rental contract if you are traveling with a rental car.
4. Customs requirements: At the border, make sure to comply with all customs requirements. You’ll need to fill out a temporary vehicle import declaration, which will allow you to drive in Morocco for a limited period.
5. Vehicle condition: Your car should be in good condition to handle Morocco’s roads, especially if you plan to travel through remote areas or the desert.