Morocco self drive holidays (2024)

While it’s true that driving in Morocco isn’t without its challenges, it’s much easier than you think: the roads connecting Morocco’s main centres are generally good, there’s an expanding motorway network, and driving allows you the freedom and flexibility to have the sort of adventure you’ve always dreamed of. Plus, there’s the epic scenery. From the Atlas Mountains to the desert to the wild Atlantic coastline, Morocco’s landscapes are crying out for a road trip, and that’s not something that’s easily delivered by public transport. So hop in the car, stick some rai music on the stereo and away you go.

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Our Morocco self drive holiday is a two week itinerary (though this can tweaked as you see fit) starting in Marrakech and focused around central Morocco – in particular the High Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic coast. Rather than having to endure a frazzled drive from the airport, you’ll be transferred to your riad in Marrakech on arrival, where a modern, air conditioned car will be delivered a day or two later, allowing you time to sightsee, take a cookery class or a visit to a hammam before hitting the road.

You’ll take a leisurely pace, generally spending a couple of days in each location and sightseeing on foot once you’re there - wandering the street bazaars and towering palm fronds of the town of Skoura, for example, or hiking mountain trails from the base of a traditional Berber farm. Your holiday company has plenty of travel experience in the region and can advise you on things to do and see en route, but there’s plenty of opportunity to make your own discoveries, too. The only thing you have to worry about it getting from A to B, as all of your accommodation is booked in advance.

Morocco holiday, central highlights

A relaxing journey through Morocco's hidden heartlands.

From £1215 to £1350 15 days ex flights

Tailor made:
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements

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Drive or be driven?

You can choose to drive yourself or you can sit back and relax while an experienced English speaking driver takes you around. This is the perfect option for nervous drivers, but it’s also a great opportunity to learn more about the landscapes and the history of the region from a local. Your driver can also suggest great places to eat traditional dishes, point out community projects and arrange local guides.

Going it alone doesn’t mean you’re in driving in the dark, though. You’ll receive a detailed information pack full of maps, driving directions and other practical information, as well as sightseeing, eating and drinking suggestions, to help point you in the right direction when you’re on the road (though you’re free to ignore these and chart your own path, of course). And there’s 24 hour help on hand, including a breakdown service, should you need it.

Where will I stay?

Riads and rural kasbahs are the way to go when road tripping in Morocco; their central courtyards and intricate tiles make for a wonderfully atmospheric stay, not to mention offering a cool alternative to power-draining air-con. Your operator will point you in the direction of the best guesthouses, many of which have been converted by local builders and using locally sourced materials, leading to a much more authentic experience than a stay in a modern chain hotel.

For the most part, you’ll stay two or three nights in each destination. Not only does this give you the chance to stretch your legs, it lets you immerse yourself in the community. Sightseeing tours will be arranged for your rest days, and these will involve as much walking as possible, thus avoiding unnecessary short drives.

What are the road conditions like?

If you’re not a confident or experienced driver then taking to the roads in Morocco isn’t recommended. Roads are often full of people, bikes and animals, and road accidents are common. Drive defensively and expect vehicles to veer out in front of you at any moment – as well as cyclists and pedestrians. Driving at night is particularly hazardous, especially in remote areas; it’s legal for cars driving under 20km per hour to drive without lights.

Petrol stations are plentiful in Morocco, and you’ll be able to fill up even in isolated areas, though it’s always worth planning in advance to make sure you don’t get caught short. Petrol stations are serviced, so you’ll have to let the attendant know how full you want your tank to be and they'll take care of the rest. English isn’t widely spoken outside of the big towns, so you’d best brush up on your Arabic, French or Berber.

Self drivers will soon notice that police control points are a thing in Morocco, particularly on main roads in and out of large towns. Foreigners are less likely to be stopped, but you should still make sure that you slow down.

When to go

The best time for a fly drive holiday in Morocco is March to May and September to October, when it’s warm but not off-the-scale hot. That being said, July and August in the High Atlas is cooler than the rest of the country, and the Atlantic winds blowing off Essaouira make summers on the Atlantic coast a bit more bearable. High and Middle Atlas passes are often closed because of snow in winter. Seek local advice before travelling, or check the road signs along the routes.

Our self drive holiday in Morocco concentrates on the country’s central regions, other than a few introductory days in Marrakech. Following ancient caravan routes and barren highways, you’ll reach the oasis town of Skoura, where historic mudbrick castles litter the landscape, and desert traders throng the souks. You’ll also spend time in the High Atlas, where the snowcapped peak of Mount Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa, looms large. This region is home to the Berber people, who hold fast to ancient traditions and are tuned in to sustainable, mountain living.

Time spent on the coast is a must, and fly drive holidays take you to the walled town of Essaouira, famous for its dazzling shades of blue, its creative savoir faire and the strong Atlantic winds that blow off its shores and around its hectic fishing port.

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