Renting a Car in Morocco: 9 Critical Mistakes Tourists Make.

So, you’re thinking about renting a car in Morocco? Let me say: good call… maybe. Renting a car here can be the ultimate travel hack if you’re itching for road trips, mountain views, or spontaneous stops at random roadside tagine spots.

But let’s be real: if you’re only sticking to cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, or Tangier? Forget it. Driving there is basically a video game on “expert mode” — scooters cutting you off, donkeys crossing the road, and parking that feels like a cruel joke. In cities, taxis, buses, or even ride-share apps like Indrive are easier and way less stressful.

Still, if you’re craving the freedom to pull over at a mountain viewpoint or chase the sunset in the Sahara, then renting a car in Morocco is hands-down the best way to travel.

Why Even Bother Renting a Car in Morocco?

Think of Morocco like four countries rolled into one: deserts, mountains, beaches, and chaotic-but-fun cities. The trains and buses are decent, but they don’t take you everywhere. That blue town of Chefchaouen? The secret waterfalls outside Marrakech? The jaw-dropping desert dunes near Merzouga? Way easier with your own wheels.

I’ve done Morocco with and without a car, and trust me: once you get out of the cities, you’ll be so glad you rented.

Rent a Car in Marrakech: What to Expect

If you’re flying into Marrakech, you’ll probably be tempted to rent a car right at the airport. Here’s the scoop:

• Big international companies (Hertz, Avis, Sixt, etc.) are usually reliable, a bit pricier, but they’ve got clearer contracts and better cars.
• Local agencies can be cheaper, but it’s more “hit or miss.” If you don’t speak French or Arabic, negotiating can be a headache.

👉 Pro tip: if you’re staying inside Marrakech for a few days first, don’t pick up your rental right away. The old medina is basically a maze where even Google Maps gives up. Just grab the car the day you’re ready to hit the road. Your sanity will thank you.

Booking Your Car: Online vs Local.

Here’s my honest breakdown:

Booking Online (The Easy Way)

This is what I recommend for most people. Websites like Discover Cars or Rental Cars let you compare prices and book ahead. You’ll see what’s included, what’s not, and you won’t get stuck with “surprise fees” (well, usually). Also, if you want an automatic car, book early! Most cars in Morocco are manual, and automatics get snatched up fast.

Booking Local (The Adventure Way)

If you’re good at bargaining and don’t mind checking out a few local agencies, you might save money. But be ready for older cars, and make sure you triple-check the contract. At the very least, read reviews on Google Maps first.

Is It Safe to Rent a Car in Morocco?

The million-dirham question: Is it safe to rent a car in Morocco?

Here’s the truth: yes, it’s safe — but not always relaxing. Roads are generally good, and Moroccans are skilled drivers (sometimes a little too confident). Outside cities, traffic is chill. Inside big cities? It’s chaos. Expect scooters to zip past you like they’re in a Fast & Furious remake, and pedestrians who walk like they’ve got nine lives.

As long as you’re not trying to drive like a local, you’ll be fine. Take it slow, stay calm, and for the love of mint tea, don’t drive at night in rural areas. There are no streetlights, and suddenly finding a donkey in the middle of the road isn’t the vibe.

Insurance: Don’t Skip This Part

Now, insurance sounds boring, but this is Morocco — you’ll want to pay attention.

• Basic insurance (included): Covers damage to other people’s stuff. But if you ding your own rental? That’s on you.
• Full coverage (“Tout Risque”): This is what you actually want. It covers the rental car too, and the most you’d pay is the deductible (a set amount).

How much are we talking?

• Small car deductible: around €500 ($550).
• SUV or fancy car: up to €1,500 ($1,650).
• Deposit: agencies will hold about $800–$1,000 on your credit card. Don’t freak out, they release it if you return the car in one piece.

👉 My advice? Go for full coverage. It’s not that much extra per day, and you’ll drive stress-free knowing you won’t pay thousands if something happens.

Avoiding the Classic Rental Car Scam

Here’s a sneaky little trick some agencies pull: charging you for scratches that were already there. Don’t fall for it.

When you pick up the car:

1. Take photos and videos of everything (even the tiniest scratch).
2. Make the agent mark all the damage on the contract.
3. Keep your copy.

It feels a little paranoid, but trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Driving in Morocco: The Good, The Bad, and The Funny

So, what’s it actually like to drive here?

• The good: Highways are smooth, gas is affordable, and outside the cities, you’ll see jaw-dropping landscapes.
• The bad: City driving is basically a sport. Everyone honks, scooters appear out of nowhere, and “lanes” are more of a suggestion.
• The funny: Moroccans use their horn for everything. Warning, hello, impatience, “nice car,” you name it.

Traffic Rules You Actually Need to Know

Okay, let’s keep it simple:

• Speed limits:
  • Cities: 60 km/h
  • Rural roads: 100 km/h
  • Highways: 120 km/h
• Seatbelts: Wear them — police actually check.
• Police checkpoints: Super common. Just slow down, smile, and have your papers ready.
• Drinking and driving: Don’t even think about it. Morocco has zero tolerance.

Documents to Keep on You

Always carry your driver’s license, passport, rental agreement, and insurance papers. The police love paperwork.

Gas, Parking, and Other Everyday Stuff

Fuel

• About 15 dirhams/liter ($1.50).
• Many stations only take cash.
• Attendants fill your tank for you — slip them a small tip (5–10 dirhams).

Parking

• In cities, parking is a headache.
• Park outside the medina and walk in — those alleyways are not car-friendly.
• Expect to pay 20–30 dirhams/day to a parking guardian (yes, that’s a real thing).

What If You Crash?

Hopefully, you won’t, but just in case:

1. Stop, turn on hazards, check for injuries.
2. Call the police (19 in cities, 177 on highways).
3. Call your rental company ASAP.
4. File a police accident report (called a “constat”). Without it, the insurance might not cover you.
5. Take photos of everything.

So… Should You Rent a Car in Morocco?

If you’re sticking to Marrakech or Casablanca, probably not. Save yourself the headache and use taxis.

But if you want to explore beyond the cities — waterfalls, mountain passes, sleepy Berber villages, and the Sahara — then yes, absolutely. Renting a car in Morocco is not only safe, it’s the key to seeing the country’s best side.

My advice?

• Book online for peace of mind.
• Get full insurance.
• Avoid night driving.
• And when you’re in Marrakech, don’t rent until you’re leaving the city.

You’ll end up with the kind of road trip stories you’ll actually want to tell your friends back home — the good, the weird, and the hilarious.

So grab the keys, cue up some Moroccan beats, and hit the road—adventure’s waiting.

👉 Ready to go? I recommend booking through Discover Cars — easy, transparent, and no hidden nonsense.

And if you’re planning your trip, check out my other guides on local buses in Morocco, taxis in Marrakech, and the best time to visit Morocco for more insider tips.