Driving in Morocco – 10 Best Road Trip Tips and Car Rental Advice

Driving is also one of the best means of touring combined landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural history. In fact, the country of Morocco is quite diverse; it has a number of must-see cities. This may perhaps be one of the reasons tourists often rent a car in Casablanca, Fez, Tangier, Marrakech, and other Moroccan cities to make the trip even more convenient. Driving in any new country, not to say one as particular as Morocco, has some drawbacks and advantages. Read on for an idea of how to make your Moroccan road trip safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

10 Car Rental Tips for a Safe & Comfortable Drive in Morocco

A list of important tips to follow when renting a car in Morocco are:

Contact a Reputable Car Rental Company

Car rentals in Morocco vary between international chains to local players. The better-known and reputed rental agency you book through is going to get you a better-maintained vehicle with reliable customer support. Read through reviews, compare prices, and find out if the company has roadside assistance options before making a booking. When you rent a car in Marrakech or any other city in Morocco early, it also guarantees you a better rate and the type of vehicle you will need.

Take Full Insurance Coverage

Driving in Morocco proves to be quite unpredictable; besides the road conditions, drivers’ habits also contribute to many recommendations of full insurance. Full insurance may cover everything from theft and damage through to liability. Many rental firms have their insurance available, but you can get coverage through third-party providers, too. Full insurance can give you confidence while on the road, since not all roads are smooth; some are badly constructed and unpleasant, especially in mountainous or rural areas.

Inspect the Vehicle Carefully

Before starting off, always inspect the car for any damage. Scratches, dents, and broken lights-anything should be documented by photos and videos before taking off to avoid disputes at the time of returning the car. Many rental firms often conduct their own inspections, but your own independent documentation provides a layer of added security. Also, make sure the essential equipment such as a spare tire, jack, and any emergency kits are available.

Know the Highway Code of Morocco

Some of the Moroccan traffic laws might be new to you, but again, the rules include driving on the right side of the road and wearing a seat belt for all occupants of the vehicle. Speed cameras are everywhere; therefore, it is wise to respect the limits.Roundabouts can be confusing and Moroccan drivers do not always yield to other vehicles when one would expect them to. Pedestrians often cross very suddenly. Exercise extreme caution at all intersections, watching for any of traffic signs including markings for school zones or pedestrian crossings.

Be Prepared for Different Road Conditions

The quality of the roads in Morocco can be quite different, whether one finds themselves in the north, south, east, or west part of the country. Major highways leading between cities-such as Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier-are generally maintained fairly well. Entering the region of the Atlas Mountains or rural areas, the roads become quite poor due to a considerable amount of potholes. If you rent a car in Rabat to explore the mountains, be prepared to drive on steep roads with sharp turns.

Planning Fuel Stops Carefully

When traveling in remote areas it is a good idea to plan fuel stops so that you will not run out of gasoline. Many stations are full service and an attendant can generally be found to help with fueling. It is a good idea to have some cash available for gas stations because not all take credit cards. Some areas may have limited fuel availability; therefore, it is a good habit to top up when you can. This will be especially useful if you drive over long distances.

Be Aware of Roundabout Etiquette

Some cities in Morocco have a number of roundabouts, or traffic circles. Driving through them is often bewildering at first. In general, cars inside the roundabout have the right of way, but some drivers do not always respect this rule. Drive defensively, yield when necessary, and signal your exit. Traffic may cut across lanes in roundabouts without warning; proceed with caution and give plenty of room between other vehicles.

Download Offline Maps and Use GPS

Internet connection may be weak or not exist at all in remote areas. For that reason, it is advisable to download the offline maps in advance before embarking on your journey. Google Maps has an offline feature that allows you to download maps or download another app like Maps.me, which gives you detailed offline Morocco maps. A reliable GPS system either integrated into your car or through your mobile application will be so helpful in keeping you from getting lost.

Drive Defensively and Expect the Unexpected

Driving styles in Morocco are varied, and your only way of surviving on the highways is through defensive driving. Drivers in urban areas are more aggressive, while in rural areas, pedestrians, animals, and even donkey carts use the roads. At all times, be cautious; stay alert for what is happening and be prepared for the unexpected.

Take the Scenic Route and Drive Slowly

It would range from sea coasts to rough mountains and further to endless dunes of desert; the landscapes of Morocco are very different. The road trips in Morocco are never just about the destination; it is also about the journey-a journey with stops for scenic views. Build some buffer time into your journey to stop at an overlook or small town. Moroccan roads are replete with breathtaking views and out-of-nowhere local attractions; make sure you leave yourself enough time for this, without hurry.

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