Driving between Moroccan cities: motorways, distances and rules

Morocco is easy to explore by car: a motorway network links the major coastal and inland cities, and national roads lead to the mountains and the desert. Here is the essentials for planning a trip with a rental car.

Motorways and tolls

Moroccan motorways are toll roads. You pay at toll plazas, according to the distance travelled. An electronic badge, Jawaz, also lets you drive through without stopping: ask the agency whether the car has one and how passages are re-billed.

Approximate distances

The distances below are orders of magnitude by the main road. Travel time depends on traffic, stops and the route chosen.

Rules to know

• Speed limits: as a rule 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h on roads and 60 km/h in built-up areas, unless signs say otherwise.
• Seat belts are mandatory in the front and the back.
• Phones may not be held while driving.
• Checks: police checks and speed cameras are frequent; keep your licence, the car papers and the rental contract at hand.

Mountain roads

The Tizi n'Tichka pass, between Marrakesh and Ouarzazate, crosses the High Atlas on a winding road. Allow time, fill up before the climb, and avoid driving at night if you do not know the road. In winter, the weather can change fast at altitude: check before leaving.

Choosing the right car

Returning the car in another city

Some agencies have several branches, for example in town and at the airport. A different drop-off location is chosen at booking, depending on what the agency offers.

To find a car from your city, see the Casablanca, Marrakesh or Tangier pages, and our guide to renting a car in Morocco.