FAQs

The most common questions that people ask before taking a trip to Morocco

Whats the best ferry route to take from Spain?

There are three main ferry routes from Spain to Morocco: Algeciras to Tangier Med, Algeciras to Ceuta, and Tarifa to Tangier Ville.

Tangier Med (via Algeciras):

Pros:
- Cheaper fares for vehicles, which is ideal for vanlifers on a budget.
- Excellent road connections from the port, making it easier to head straight into Morocco’s main routes.
- Spacious, modern facilities at the port, perfect for larger vehicles like campervans.
- Smoother and more efficient customs process, with less scrutiny compared to Tangier Ville.
Cons:
- Located about 40 minutes outside Tangier city, so it’s less convenient if your first stop is the city itself.

Ceuta (via Algeciras):

Pros:
- Often shorter queues for boarding compared to other routes.
- Ceuta is a Spanish enclave, so the ferry crossing itself avoids Moroccan port customs, making the initial journey smoother.
- Flexibility in ferry schedules, with frequent departures.
Cons:
- Extra customs and border checks when entering Morocco from Ceuta, which can take longer than at Tangier Med.
- Requires a drive from Ceuta to enter Morocco, adding extra travel time.

Tangier Ville (via Tarifa):

Pros:
- Faster crossing (around 1 hour), and you arrive directly in Tangier city centre.
- Convenient for those who want to explore Tangier without driving long distances.
Cons:
- Higher ticket prices for vehicles compared to Tangier Med or Cueta.
- Narrower streets around Tangier Ville can be challenging to navigate in larger vans.
- Customs at Tangier Ville tend to be more thorough and time-consuming, which can be inconvenient for vanlifers.

Where's the best place to buy ferry tickets and who's Carlos?

A lot of folks keep hearing and asking about Carlos—who he is, what he does, and what makes him such a hot topic! Lets clear up the mystery and introduce this elusive guy once and for all and his business, VIAJES NORMANDIE, based in Algeciras.

📍Find VIAJES NORMANDIE on Google Maps

Who is Carlos?

Carlos Gutierrez is the founder of VIAJES NORMANDIE, a trustworthy and reputable travel agency known for its incredible service and dedication to the camper van and motorhome community. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first trip to Morocco, Carlos and his team have made it their mission to ensure your journey is smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable.

Why Choose Carlos?

1️⃣ Best Deals Around

Carlos has a reputation for offering some of the best deals for an “open return” ferry crossing, almost half the price of some online sellers. His team ensures you get the best value for your money.

2️⃣ Perfect for First-Timers

Feeling nervous about your first trip to Morocco? These guys will guide you through the process, giving you all the information and reassurance you need to hit the road with confidence.

3️⃣ Extra Services You’ll Love

SIM Cards: Get a simple Maroc Telecom SIM tailored to your needs as soon as you land.
Cash Exchange: Since it’s difficult to get Moroccan Dirhams outside the country, you can grab some handy cash until you reach an ATM.
Free Drone Storage: Avoid issues, as drones are prohibited in Morocco.
Dog Paperwork Assistance: Basic advice for travelling with your furry friends! 🐾
Road Maps: Perfect for those who enjoy old-school navigation.

4️⃣ Convenient Location

VIAJES NORMANDIE is located on an industrial estate in Algeciras—perfect for grabbing any last-minute essentials before you head off. Plus, there’s a convenient park-up area just around the corner for an overnight stay before heading to the port.

🚐 Why Does the Community Talk So Much About Him?

While he’s now semi-retired, his legacy of excellent service and expertise lives on through his family, who run the business with the same dedication and passion. So, when people say, “Go see Carlos,” they’re really pointing you toward the trusted family business he’s built. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, especially for the first time, VIAJES NORMANDIE is your go-to place to get everything sorted.

Oh, and don’t be surprised to receive the standard complimentary gift of wine and biscuits😂 It’s practically a rite of passage! 🍷🍪

VanLife-Morocco is not sponsored in any way. Other travel companies are available.

Whats the procedure for bringing dogs into the country?

Big thanks to Kath Cross for this informative post and video to guide folks bringing their beloved furry friends on the ferry from the EU.

Travelling by Ferry with Your Pet

If you are planning to travel to Morocco by ferry from the EU with your pet dog or cat 🐶🐱, there are some essential steps you need to complete to protect your pet from rabies and ensure smooth re-entry to the EU without quarantine.

Steps to Prepare Your Pet:

Microchip: Your pet must have a valid microchip.
Rabies Vaccination: Administer a rabies vaccination and obtain an EU pet passport .
Serology Test: Wait 30 days, then perform a blood test 💉 for serology to ensure your pet’s rabies antibodies are adequate. This test takes around 14-21 days ⏱️, and upon completion, a certificate will be issued.
Health Check: Before crossing into Morocco, your pet must undergo a health check 🧬, and an animal export certificate 📄 must be issued. If travelling from Algeciras, vets at the port can complete the Official Health Certificate to issue the animal export certificate.

⚠️ Important Information for UK Travellers 🇬🇧 ⚠️

Due to a rule change in October 2023 following Brexit , UK serology results are no longer accepted at Spanish ports. Spanish vets are now instructed not to enter UK rabies vaccinations into EU pet passports. Here’s what this means:

Many Spanish vets now require an EU rabies vaccine, followed by a 30-day wait and then serology blood tests, resulting in a minimum 50-day wait before travel.
However, some vets may take serology bloods based on your UK rabies vaccination and then administer the EU vaccine, reducing the wait to 14-21 days. It’s worth shopping around.
Note: You cannot cross into Morocco using a UK Animal Health Certificate.

📺 Step-by-Step Video Guide

How can I arrange vehicle Insurance and be legal for driving in Morocco?

Am I driving legally?

Most European vehicles are covered for Morocco under their existing motor insurance policies. In some cases, the coverage extends to fully comprehensive, depending on the insurer and policy details. UK-registered vehicles generally do not include Morocco as part of their standard insurance. UK drivers will typically need to purchase third-party insurance upon arrival at the port.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for driving in Morocco. A valid driving licence from your home country is sufficient. However, it’s always a good idea to carry your driving licence with you at all times while driving.

Where do we purchase insurance, and what are the costs?

Insurance can be purchased at booths located just after disembarking the ferry and passing through customs. The cost is approximately €96 per month per vehicle, which also applies to scooters being carried.

If my insurance runs out, can I extend it somewhere in the country?

Yes, it is possible to extend your insurance. You would need to visit an insurance agency, which is easiest to do in major cities. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Are there any UK insurers that cover Morocco?

A few UK insurers, such as LV, offer Morocco as an included destination. However, this is often limited to existing customers, and breakdown cover is not included. It’s always best to confirm the details with your insurer prior to travel.

How long can I stay in Morocco with my van?

If it is your first visit, you can stay in Morocco for up to 90 days per calendar year (January 1 – December 31) upon arrival, while your van is permitted for up to 180 days per calendar year.

VERY IMPORTANT!!! Upon arrival at the port you will give a small white card which is your TIP (Temporary Import Permit). You MUST keep this in a safe place and present it on your departure to avoid complications

If you wish to extend your stay beyond 90 days, you can leave Morocco and re-enter, either by crossing the land border at Ceuta (where it’s possible to park at the border and walk over) or by flying in and out. Many budget airlines offer cheap return flights. If leaving by air, you can leave your vehicle at the airport, but you must inform customs. This will reset your 90-day allowance.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have previously visited Morocco earlier in the year, the time spent will be deducted from your 90-day limit. The same rule applies to your van’s 180-day allowance.

Once a new calendar year begins, both the 90-day personal stay and the 180-day vehicle permit reset.

Can I leave my vehicle here whilst I fly out?

Yes, you can leave your vehicle at a campsite or the airport while you fly out. Most major airports, including Agadir, Marrakesh, and Essaouira, offer suitable and secure parking for vans and motorhomes. It’s even possible to stay overnight if you have an early flight the next day—just be respectful, stay as discreet as possible, and avoid setting up outdoor furniture or BBQs.

Once you’ve checked in for your flight, you must visit Customs & Immigration (DOUANE) to present all your vehicle documents, including the White TIP card. You will receive a permission slip, which you may need to show at passport control. This process can take up to an hour, so be sure to allow enough time to avoid missing your flight.

PLEASE NOTE: The declaration form is in French, so using Google Lens or a translation app is recommended, as officials may not always be able to assist.

Is there any vehicle breakdown cover available?

The simple answer is NO However, don’t worry! Local help is never far away. In the event of a breakdown, just lift your bonnet at the roadside and someone will be along shortly. There are numerous local mechanics and roadside assistance services throughout the country who should be able to get your running again.

Can I use my Debit/Credit card for payment, or is it Cash Only?

In Morocco, cash is king, especially in local shops, markets (souks), and smaller businesses. While some larger establishments accept card payments, they are generally only accepted at major petrol stations and supermarkets like Carrefour and Marjane.

Around 90% of petrol stations accept card payments, but it’s always best to ask before filling up to avoid any issues.

Additionally, campsites do not accept card payments, including the more European-style ones such as Le Relais and Atlantica Park. So be sure to carry enough cash to cover your stay.

Whats the best ATM to use?

The best ATMs to use in Morocco are those from Al Barid Bank, found at Poste Maroc locations. These ATMs do not charge fees when using certain cards, including Wise, Monzo, and Chase.

The typical withdrawal limit is 2,000 Dirhams per transaction, but you can repeat the process multiple times to withdraw up to around 10,000 Dirhams depending on your daily limit.

How expensive are the toll roads and are they worth it?

Morocco Toll Road Tariffs

Morocco has some of the best roads you will ever have been on. Totally worth it for any journey and cheap. Below, you will find the approximate toll prices for major routes across Morocco. These prices are based on research and are current to date, but please note that they could change over time due to updates from Autoroutes du Maroc (ADM) or other factors such as roadworks or seasonal adjustments.

Vehicle Categories Explained 🚗🚛

The tolls are calculated based on vehicle categories, which reflect the type and size of the vehicle. Here’s a quick guide to understand each category and how it relates to your vehicle:

1️⃣ Category 1: Light Vehicles • Standard passenger cars • SUVs & 4x4s • Motorbikes & scooters Motorhomes up to 3.5 tonnes also fall under this category.
2️⃣ Category 2: Medium Vehicles • Small trucks and vans • Minibuses Motorhomes between 3.5 tonnes and 5 tonnes typically fit into this category.
3️⃣ Category 3: Heavy Vehicles • Large lorries (HGVs) • Buses & coaches • Trucks with trailers Motorhomes over 5 tonnes will generally fall into this category.

Please be aware that motorhomes (both under and over 3.5 tonnes) are classified based on their total weight and may fall into Category 2 or 3 depending on their size.

Morocco Toll Road Tariffs & Distances

Route	Distance (km)	Vehicle Category	Toll (MAD)
Tangier Med – Tangier	54 km	Cat 1	10 MAD
		Cat 2	15 MAD
		Cat 3	30 MAD
Tangier – Asilah	42 km	Cat 1	15 MAD
		Cat 2	20 MAD
		Cat 3	35 MAD
Asilah – Larache	32 km	Cat 1	10 MAD
		Cat 2	12 MAD
		Cat 3	18 MAD
Larache – Rabat	126 km	Cat 1	50 MAD
		Cat 2	70 MAD
		Cat 3	100 MAD
Rabat – Casablanca	87 km	Cat 1	20 MAD
		Cat 2	35 MAD
		Cat 3	50 MAD
Casablanca – Settat	57 km	Cat 1	16 MAD
		Cat 2	25 MAD
		Cat 3	40 MAD
Settat – Agadir	258 km	Cat 1	70 MAD
		Cat 2	100 MAD
		Cat 3	150 MAD
Agadir – Marrakech	245 km	Cat 1	70 MAD
		Cat 2	90 MAD
		Cat 3	120 MAD

Can I refil my LPG tank or get gas easily?

If you’re travelling to Morocco in a motorhome, you’ll need to know how to buy gas for cooking and heating. Here’s the lowdown on sourcing LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) for your van.

Can you buy gas for your motorhome in Morocco?

Yes, you can! You can easily buy bottled gas locally. It is available EVERYWHERE! in every town, even at roadside shops or campsites.

Can I refill my fixed LPG tank?

Not so much! You will rarely find a place that can do this. So it is best to use exchangeable bottled gas and adapt your system to do this.

Types of Gas Available

In Morocco, the most common gas used is butane, which is the type you’ll need for cooking, heating, and lighting in your motorhome. It’s the same kind of gas used in homes and businesses, not the type used to fuel your vehicle.

Prices

Butane gas prices in Morocco are fairly standard:

3kg bottle: 70 MAD
6kg bottle: 100 MAD
11kg bottle: 140 MAD

Fittings for Moroccan Gas Bottles

If your van uses European fittings, you may find that they match Moroccan butane bottles. If not, simply change the hose from your van’s already-fitted regulator to one with the correct fitting at the bottle end, as shown in the diagram below.

Whats the best data Sim Card to get and how is the coverage?

In general, the coverage in Morocco is fairly reliable, though all providers may experience a drop in quality during the night. The best SIM card depends on your priorities—whether you value cost-effectiveness, network coverage, or data speed. The two most popular choices are INWI and Maroc Telecom, both offering advantages depending on your needs. This is just a guideline, so it’s advisable to check current offers, coverage maps, and plans available during your visit to select the best option that aligns with your requirements.

WARNING: DO NOT BUY AT THE PORT. ⚠️🚨 There are scams where the cost is doubled, and you are led to believe you are purchasing unlimited data, only for it to run out after a few days. Similarly, paying for three months upfront often results in the service stopping shortly after. It is strongly recommended to go directly to a store to avoid these issues. ⚠️🚨

INWI

Pros:

Affordability: Inwi often offers competitive rates for data packages and calling plans, making it a budget-friendly option for tourists.
Coverage: The network coverage of Inwi is generally good in urban areas and major tourist spots.
Flexibility: Inwi offers various prepaid SIM card options with customizable packages catering to different needs.

Cons:

Limited Coverage in Remote Areas: While Inwi’s coverage is decent in cities, it might not provide strong signals in remote or rural areas.
Network Speed: In some instances, especially during peak times, users might experience slower network speeds.

Set Up:

To set up a data/call plan, find a local INWI store in any major town/city and bring your passport to sign up. It is a simple process and takes around 15 minutes. Before the month expires, simply pop to any INWI store to recharge, or visit some outlets displaying the INWI logo.

Current Best Deal: 249 MAD (23€ / £20) per Month for unlimited data.

MAROC TELECOM

Pros:

Wider Coverage: Maroc Telecom boasts extensive coverage across the country, including rural areas and remote regions, ensuring better connectivity in various locations.
Network Quality: Generally, Maroc Telecom offers better network quality and faster speeds compared to other providers.
Reliability: Known for its reliability, Maroc Telecom ensures a more consistent signal in most parts of Morocco.

Cons:

Pricing: The plans offered by Maroc Telecom might be slightly more expensive compared to its competitors.
Less Flexibility: Maroc Telecom’s prepaid packages might have fewer customizable options compared to Inwi.

Set Up:

SIM cards can be purchased at most convenience stores and kiosks. It is possible to buy at the port of arrival, but you can expect higher costs and low data offers. To recharge each month or when your data has been used, you can find any store with the Maroc symbol and they can add data via a portal. It is important to let it be known that it is for data only. In more rural areas, a scratch card can be purchased with a unique 14-digit number that can be entered via the phone. Note that this process is in Arabic or French, so perhaps the shopkeeper can assist if needed.

Current Prices:

100 MAD (9€ / £8) per Month for 15GB
200 MAD (18€ / £16) per Month for 20GB
300 MAD (27€ / £24) per Month for 30GB
400 MAD (36€ / £30) per Month for 40GB

Alternatives

Apart from Inwi and Maroc Telecom, there are other options worth considering:

Orange Morocco: Another major player in the market, Orange Morocco, offers competitive plans and good coverage, especially in urban areas.

Current Prices:

49 MAD (4.5€ / £4) per Month for 2GB
99 MAD (9€ / £8) per Month for 20GB
149 MAD (14€ / £12) per Month for 30GB
199 MAD (18€ / £16) per Month for 40GB

Given that Orange’s data packages include calling minutes, the Orange SIM card is a great option if you also wish to make phone calls in Morocco. Orange also has the lowest price on prepaid SIM cards. Nonetheless, Orange’s 4G network in Morocco is also the least extensive.

Something to Note!!!!

Did you know that Google Maps still works without having mobile data as long as you preload and start your route whilst being connected to Wifi/Data? Most folks rely on mobile internet for their driving routes, so rather than panic buying at the port for overpriced SIM cards, you can use the port WiFi to load your route. This will guide you to a campsite or wherever you need to go even without being connected to mobile data.

Did we miss something?

Is there a frequently asked question that you think others might benefit from? Let me know and I will consider adding it here