Morocco Overlanding Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Morocco packs a lot into one overland trip. In a couple of weeks you can drive from the Mediterranean coast to the Sahara, and from the Rif Mountains to the Atlantic. Below is what we tell people planning a Morocco overland route.

What is Overlanding?

Overlanding means travelling self-reliantly to remote places, where the drive itself is the point. The landscapes, people and experiences along the way matter more than ticking off sights. Morocco suits it well: the terrain is varied, the culture is rich and most places are fairly easy to reach.

Best Overland Routes in Morocco

1. The Classic North-South Route

Tangier → Chefchaouen → Fes → Merzouga → Dades Gorge → Ouarzazate → Marrakech → Essaouira. Allow 10-14 days. This route shows you the whole range of Morocco.

2. The Desert Loop

Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Dades → Merzouga → Draa Valley → Marrakech. A 7-10 day loop through the desert and the Atlas Mountains.

3. The Coast to Coast

Nador → Fes → Merzouga → Dades → Ouarzazate → Essaouira. In 7-10 days you cross from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic.

Vehicle Choice

We strongly recommend a 4x4. Many main roads are paved, but the best places need a vehicle that can go off-road. Your options:

• Rental 4x4: available in major cities. Check that the insurance covers off-road use.
• Guided expedition: the easy option. We provide the vehicle, the driver and all the logistics. See our overland tours.
• Own vehicle: make sure it is properly equipped and that you have a carnet de passage.

Preparation

Documents

• Valid passport (6+ months)
• Driver's license (international recommended)
• Vehicle insurance (Moroccan insurance required)
• Carnet de passage (for own vehicle)
• Travel insurance

Vehicle Preparation

• Full service and check
• Spare tires (at least 2)
• Recovery gear (jack, tow rope, shovel)
• Extra fuel (jerry cans)
• Water (20+ liters)
• First aid kit
• Navigation (GPS + paper maps)

Where to Stay

There is a place to sleep for most budgets along the way:

• Hotels and riads: in cities and towns
• Guesthouses: in smaller towns and villages
• Desert camps: in the Sahara
• Camping: official campsites, or wild camping with permission

Budget

Rough daily costs for overlanding in Morocco:

• Budget: €40-60/day (camping, self-catering)
• Mid-range: €80-120/day (guesthouses, restaurants)
• Comfortable: €150-250/day (hotels, guided tours)

Safety Tips

• Never drive off-road alone
• Carry satellite communication in remote areas
• Tell someone your route and schedule
• Check the weather, as flash floods do happen
• Respect local customs and dress modestly
• Carry cash, because ATMs are scarce in remote areas

When we would go

October to April is the best window. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) give the best conditions. In summer the desert routes are too hot, and in winter snow can close mountain passes.

Few countries give you this much variety in landscapes and cultures within a single drive. You can go self-drive or join a guided expedition. Look at our overland tours or contact us to plan your route through Morocco.