🐾 Traveling to Morocco with Pets
Pet-Friendly Morocco
Morocco is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly in tourist areas like Marrakech and coastal cities. While not as integrated as in Europe, many riads, beaches, and souks accommodate well-behaved animals, making it a viable destination for pet owners with proper planning.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and ferrets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, endorsed by official authorities.
Certificate must include proof of rabies vaccination and general health status.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Vaccination must be for animals over 3 months old; boosters required as per schedule.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Chip number must be linked to all documentation; scanners available at borders.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need an import permit from ONSSA (Moroccan agricultural authority) applied for in advance.
Rabies titer test may be required with a 3-month waiting period; contact Moroccan embassy.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers may be restricted or require special permits.
Muzzles and leashes mandatory for larger dogs in public areas; check local regulations.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and exotic animals require specific CITES permits and health checks from ONSSA.
Quarantine may apply for non-standard pets; verify with authorities before travel.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Morocco on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Riads (Marrakech & Fez): Traditional guesthouses often welcome pets for 100-200 MAD/night fee, with courtyards for pets. Many boutique riads like Riad Kniza are pet-tolerant.
- Beach Resorts & Hotels (Agadir & Essaouira): Coastal properties allow pets on beaches and in rooms at no extra charge, with access to promenades. Ideal for relaxed seaside stays.
- Vacation Rentals & Villas: Airbnb and Vrbo options in rural areas frequently permit pets, offering space in kasbahs or desert camps.
- Desert Camps (Sahara): Luxury glamping sites in Merzouga welcome pets for camel treks and stargazing, with pet-friendly tents.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Sites near the Atlas Mountains are pet-friendly with hiking access; fees around 50-100 MAD/night.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like La Mamounia in Marrakech provide pet amenities including walking services and gourmet treats.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Atlas Mountains Hikes
Morocco's mountains offer pet-friendly trails in the High Atlas near Marrakech.
Keep dogs leashed near shepherds and wildlife; guided tours available for families.
Beaches & Coastlines
Essaouira and Agadir beaches have dog-friendly sections for swimming and walks.
Check local rules; some areas restrict pets during high season.
Cities & Gardens
Marrakech's Majorelle Garden and Menara Gardens welcome leashed pets; souks allow dogs outside.
Fez's medina is navigable with pets on leash; outdoor cafes often pet-tolerant.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Moroccan tea houses and rooftop terraces in cities provide water for pets.
Ask before entering; outdoor seating is generally pet-friendly.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor medina tours in Marrakech and Fez accept leashed dogs for free.
Avoid mosques and indoor sites; focus on street-level cultural experiences.
Camel Treks & Quad Bikes
Desert operators allow small pets on camel rides; quad biking in dunes is pet-accommodating.
Fees 200-500 MAD; book pet-friendly guides in advance.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (ONCF): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (50% fare) and must be leashed/muzzled. Allowed in second class.
- Buses (CTM): Small pets in carriers free; larger dogs 20-50 MAD with leash/muzzle. Avoid crowded routes.
- Grand Taxis: Negotiate with drivers; most accept pets for 10-20 MAD extra. Shared taxis common between cities.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Hertz allow pets with deposit (500-1000 MAD); clean before return. 4x4s ideal for desert and mountains.
- Flights to Morocco: Check airline policies; Royal Air Maroc and Ryanair allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Royal Air Maroc, Iberia, and EasyJet accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 300-500 MAD each way. Larger pets in hold with certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Clinics in Marrakech (Clinique Vétérinaire Marrakech) and Casablanca offer 24-hour care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations 200-500 MAD.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops in major cities stock food and basics; chains like Vetshop in Rabat.
Bring specialized meds; pharmacies carry common treatments.
Grooming & Day Care
Grooming salons in tourist areas charge 100-300 MAD per session.
Daycare limited; hotels may arrange local pet minders.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Marrakech via apps or hotels; 200-400 MAD/day.
Ask riads for recommendations; trusted sitters for excursions.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, medinas, and protected areas. Rural hikes may allow off-leash if controlled.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs need muzzles on public transport and in crowded souks. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up after pets; bins available in tourist zones. Fines up to 500 MAD for violations.
- Beach & Water Rules: Designated dog areas on some beaches; avoid during peak hours. Respect local customs.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor terraces; keep quiet and away from food. Indoor entry rare.
- National Parks: Leash required in reserves like Toubkal; seasonal restrictions during migrations.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Morocco
Morocco for Families
Morocco captivates families with vibrant souks, desert adventures, and coastal beaches. Safe for kids with interactive experiences like camel rides and cooking classes. Accommodations offer family suites, and markets provide kid-friendly treats.
Top Family Attractions
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square (Marrakech)
Lively square with street performers, snake charmers, and food stalls entertaining all ages.
Free entry; evening shows magical. Nearby souks for shopping fun.
Majorelle Garden (Marrakech)
Colorful botanical garden with blue villa, Islamic museum, and shaded paths.
Tickets 150 MAD adults, 70 MAD kids; stroller-friendly oasis.
Bahia Palace (Marrakech)
Ornate palace with courtyards, mosaics, and gardens kids explore.
Tickets 70 MAD; audio guides for family stories.
Oceanographic Museum (Casablanca)
Interactive marine exhibits with fish tanks and sea life displays.
Tickets 50 MAD adults, 20 MAD kids; educational fun.
Volubilis Roman Ruins (Near Fez)
Ancient site with mosaics and arches; kids love the history adventure.
Tickets 70 MAD; guided tours 200 MAD for families.
Quad Biking & Camel Rides (Sahara)
Desert adventures with dune buggies and camel treks for kids 6+.
Prices 300-600 MAD; safe, guided experiences.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Morocco on Viator. From medina tours to desert safaris, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Riads (Marrakech & Fez): Traditional homes with family suites for 800-1500 MAD/night. Include pools, kids' activities, and home-cooked meals.
- Beach Resorts (Agadir): All-inclusive with kids' clubs and pools; 1000-2000 MAD/night for families.
- Desert Camps (Merzouga): Glamping tents with family setups, camel rides, and stargazing; 500-1000 MAD/night.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in cities with kitchens; ideal for longer stays, 600-1200 MAD/night.
- Budget Guesthouses: Clean options in Essaouira for 400-800 MAD/night with family rooms and beach access.
- Kasbah Hotels: Historic forts like Kasbah Tamadot offer luxury family adventures in the Atlas; 2000+ MAD/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Marrakech with Kids
Souk treasure hunts, Jemaa el-Fnaa shows, hammam experiences, and quad biking.
Cooking classes and donkey rides add cultural fun for children.
Fez with Kids
Medina labyrinth walks, tannery visits, pottery workshops, and Volubilis ruins.
Storytelling sessions and mint tea tastings engage young explorers.
Atlas Mountains with Kids
Berber village visits, easy hikes, waterfall picnics, and mule rides.
Ourika Valley day trips with nature and local interactions.
Coastal Region (Essaouira)
Kite surfing lessons, beach horseback riding, fresh seafood, and ramparts play.
Boat trips and camel beach walks for family bonding.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 4 free; 4-11 half-price. Family seating on ONCF with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Petit taxis in cities cheap (10-20 MAD); family day passes available in Casablanca.
- Car Rentals: Child seats 50-100 MAD/day; mandatory under 10. 4x4s for off-road family trips.
- Stroller-Friendly: Medinas challenging with steps; opt for carriers. Attractions like gardens are accessible.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Tagines and couscous adapted for kids at 50-100 MAD. High chairs in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Rooftop cafes and beach eateries welcome families with play areas.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Marrakech souks for fresh fruits, bread; supermarkets stock diapers.
- Snacks & Treats: Pastries, fresh juices, and honey treats keep kids happy.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls and major hotels; limited in medinas.
- Pharmacies: Stock baby needs; English-speaking in cities, 50-100 MAD for basics.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange for 200-300 MAD/hour; trusted locals.
- Medical Care: Clinics in cities; international hospitals in Casablanca. Travel insurance essential.
♿ Accessibility in Morocco
Accessible Travel
Morocco is improving accessibility in tourist areas with ramps and adapted transport. Major sites offer wheelchair access, though medinas remain challenging. Tourism offices provide guidance for inclusive trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: ONCF first-class has wheelchair spaces and assistance; book ahead for ramps.
- City Transport: Taxis accommodate wheelchairs; buses in Casablanca partially accessible.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis in Marrakech via apps; standard ones fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Marrakech and Casablanca airports offer full assistance, ramps, and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden have ramps and accessible paths.
- Historic Sites: Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca fully wheelchair-accessible with guides.
- Nature & Parks: Menara Gardens and beaches provide flat paths; desert tours with adapted vehicles.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and fall (Sept-Nov) for mild weather; avoid summer heat in deserts.
Winter mild in coasts, cooler in mountains with fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Family tickets at sites save 20-30%; haggle in souks for deals.
Riads and markets keep costs low; group tours economical.
Language
Arabic and Berber official; French common, English in tourist areas.
Basic phrases appreciated; locals welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Light layers, sun protection, modest clothing; comfortable shoes for medinas.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and records.
Useful Apps
ONCF for trains, Google Translate, and local taxi apps.
Marrakech Navigator for city tips and real-time info.
Health & Safety
Very safe for tourists; bottled water advised. Pharmacies for minor issues.
Emergency: dial 19 for ambulance. Insurance covers family and pets.