Book cheap flights to Morocco

Morocco’s climate varies dramatically by region — from the mild Atlantic coast and the hot, dry desert south to the snow-capped Atlas Mountains — so the best time to visit depends on where you’re heading. **Spring (March to May) — Best overall** The most popular and arguably the best time to visit Morocco. Temperatures are pleasant (22°C–28°C), wildflowers bloom in the Atlas Mountains, and the cities are alive with colour and energy without the oppressive summer heat. Ideal for city exploration, trekking and desert excursions. **Autumn (September to November) — Excellent alternative** Another excellent time to visit, with comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds than spring and beautiful golden light across the landscapes. October is particularly good for visiting Fez, Marrakech and the Sahara. **Summer (June to August) — Avoid inland cities** Temperatures in inland cities like Marrakech and Fez regularly exceed 40°C and can be extremely uncomfortable. The Atlantic coast (Agadir, Essaouira) and the northern Mediterranean coast remain cooler and are popular beach destinations during this period. **Winter (December to February) — Budget season** Mild and pleasant on the coast, but cold in the mountains (with snow on the High Atlas peaks — skiing is possible at Oukaimeden near Marrakech). The Sahara is cool at night but warm during the day — a magical time to visit the dunes. City crowds are at their lowest and accommodation rates drop significantly. For the cheapest flights to Morocco from South Africa, consider travelling between mid-November and February — low season means better fares while the weather remains perfectly comfortable on the coast and in the desert.

South African passport holders do not require a visa to visit Morocco for stays of up to 90 days. Entry is granted on arrival upon presentation of a valid South African passport. It is recommended that your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates and contain sufficient blank pages for entry stamps.

Morocco is one of the most accessible North African destinations for South African travellers, with no tourist visa application required for short stays.

For more information or assistance during your visit, contact the Embassy of Morocco in Pretoria:

Address: 799 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0083

Tel: 27 12 343 0230

The South African Embassy in Morocco is located in Rabat:

Address: 34 Rue des Saadiens, Rabat

Tel: 212 537 706 760

Morocco is a safe and welcoming destination for South African travellers. With a little cultural awareness and common sense, your trip should be thoroughly enjoyable and hassle-free.

In busy tourist areas — particularly the medinas of Fez and Marrakech — be alert to pickpockets and opportunistic vendors. Solo female travellers may experience unwanted attention in crowded souks and markets; walking with purpose, dressing modestly and using a reputable local guide can make the experience significantly more comfortable. In Marrakech and Casablanca, tourist-friendly areas are very well established and generally safe.

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country — dress respectfully when visiting mosques, religious sites and traditional neighbourhoods. Covering your knees and shoulders is appreciated and, in some areas, expected. During the holy month of Ramadan, be mindful of eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours.

Public transport — including buses and trains — is efficient, affordable and widely used. Morocco’s Al Boraq high-speed train connects Casablanca with Tangier in under 2 hours and is a comfortable and modern travel option. When using private taxis, always agree on a fare with the driver before departing.

No vaccinations are required for entry into Morocco, but it is advisable to visit your doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip. Recommended immunisations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies. Drink bottled water throughout your trip and avoid uncooked street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Accommodation in Morocco is as rich and varied as the country itself — from atmospheric traditional riads hidden behind ornate doorways in ancient medinas, to modern beach resorts, boutique mountain lodges and Saharan desert camps under the stars.

In Marrakech, staying in a riad in the medina is the quintessential Moroccan experience. These traditional courtyard houses — often centuries old and lovingly restored — offer beautifully tiled interiors, rooftop terraces and exceptional hospitality at a range of price points. The Guéliz neighbourhood (the new city) offers more modern hotel options, including international chains, closer to the city’s contemporary restaurants and shops.

In Fez, the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest car-free urban area in the world — staying within or just outside its walls puts you at the heart of one of the most extraordinary cities in Africa. Chefchaouen offers charming boutique guesthouses and small hotels woven into the blue-washed streets of the medina, with stunning mountain views.

For a beach holiday, Agadir offers a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts and family-friendly hotels along its long Atlantic beach, while Essaouira’s windswept charm attracts boutique travellers and kitesurfers. In the Sahara, luxury desert camps near Merzouga offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience — private tents with en-suite facilities, camel rides at sunset and a sky full of stars.

Ready to book? Search and book accommodation in Morocco at Travelstart and find the best deals across all budgets.

Getting around Morocco is surprisingly easy and enjoyable — the country has an excellent transport network by African standards, with modern trains, comfortable long-distance buses and a growing number of domestic flight options.

Train (ONCF) is the most comfortable way to travel between Morocco’s major cities. The Al Boraq high-speed train connects Casablanca with Tangier in under 2 hours at speeds of up to 320km/h — the fastest train in Africa. Regular intercity trains connect Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Meknès and Marrakech efficiently and affordably. Book tickets in advance through the ONCF website.

Long-distance buses operated by CTM and Supratours are a comfortable and affordable option for routes not covered by train — including Agadir, Essaouira, Ouarzazate and the southern desert regions. Air-conditioned coaches are clean and reliable.

Within cities, petits taxis (small, metered city taxis) are the most convenient option. In Marrakech and Fez, taxis cannot enter the medinas — you’ll need to walk or use a horse-drawn calèche for the last stretch. Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare upfront. Ride-hailing apps including Careem and inDrive operate in Casablanca and Marrakech.

For exploring Morocco’s most spectacular landscapes — the High Atlas Mountain passes, the Draa Valley, the road to Merzouga and the Atlantic coastal route — a hire car is the ideal option and one of the best ways to experience the country. Roads between major cities are generally well-maintained, though mountain routes require care. A standard vehicle is sufficient for most routes; a 4×4 is recommended for desert pistes and remote mountain roads.

Planning a self-drive road trip through Morocco? Search, compare and book a car hire in Morocco at Travelstart and find the best rate for your adventure.