Car Rental in Sale

Where to drive

• Explore Rabat: Just a short drive across the Bou Regreg River, Rabat offers historical sites like the Hassan Tower, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Chellah Necropolis. The drive is typically under 15 minutes, covering about 5-10 km.
• Day trip to Kenitra: Head north to Kenitra, approximately 40 km away (around a 45-minute drive), to see the historical Mehdia Beach and the Sebou River estuary.
• Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis: Embark on a scenic journey inland to Volubilis, one of Morocco's best-preserved Roman archaeological sites. This trip is about 160 km and takes approximately 2-2.5 hours each way.
• Coastal drive to Casablanca: Drive south along the Atlantic coast to Casablanca, Morocco's largest city, to experience its modern architecture, including the Hassan II Mosque. The distance is roughly 90 km, taking about 1-1.5 hours.
• Discover the pottery town of Salé: Explore the local artisanal crafts and the ancient medina of Salé itself, often more authentically Moroccan than Rabat's. A car makes it easy to navigate between different workshops and historical gates within and around the city.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Morocco, you generally need a valid passport, a valid national driving license held for at least one year, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some rental agencies might accept just a national license from certain countries, but an IDP is highly recommended and often required by law for non-Arabic or non-French licenses. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, though some categories or companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, often with a surcharge for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Sale can vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day during the low season, while mid-range sedans could be around 35-50 EUR. SUVs and premium vehicles typically range from 60 EUR upwards. Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons, especially summer and major holidays, potentially increasing by 30-50% compared to off-peak rates.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Morocco, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 60 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero (0.00%). Headlights are recommended during the day, especially on rural roads or in adverse weather. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 10 years old must use appropriate child seats or restraints in the rear of the vehicle.

Parking

Parking in Sale, especially near the medina and popular attractions, can be a mix of paid and free options. In many areas, you'll find designated parking zones managed by attendants (gardiens) who will collect a small fee (a few dirhams for a few hours). Always agree on the price beforehand or look for official signage. Off-street parking lots are also available, particularly near major shopping areas or public spaces. Free street parking is rare in central, busy areas.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is readily available throughout Sale and across Morocco. Fuel stations are numerous in urban areas and along main roads. The price of fuel is regulated by the government and is generally consistent across different stations, though it can fluctuate. As of 2026, expect approximate prices for petrol to be around 13-15 Moroccan Dirhams per liter. Most stations accept cash, and many larger ones also accept credit cards, though it's wise to carry some cash as a backup.

Which car to choose

For navigating Sale's city streets and short trips to Rabat, an economy or compact car is ideal due to easier parking and maneuverability. If you plan to venture further afield, such as to Volubilis or along the coast, a comfortable mid-range sedan is a good choice. For more adventurous routes or if you're traveling with more luggage or passengers, an SUV can offer better comfort and ground clearance, though most major roads are well-paved. Manual transmission cars are more common and often cheaper to rent, but automatics are available if preferred.

Frequently asked questions