Car Rental in Tangier

Where to drive

• Drive to Chefchaouen, the famous 'Blue City,' nestled in the Rif Mountains. It's approximately a 2-hour drive (around 110 km) southeast of Tangier, offering stunning mountain views along the way.
• Explore Asilah, a charming fortified town on the Atlantic coast, known for its white-washed houses and vibrant art scene. This is an easy 45-minute drive (around 50 km) south of Tangier.
• Visit Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules, just a 20-minute drive (around 15 km) west of Tangier. Enjoy panoramic views where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean and explore mythical sea caves.
• Take a scenic coastal route to Tetouan, often called 'The White Dove,' another UNESCO World Heritage site. This drive is about 1 hour (around 60 km) east of Tangier, offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean coastline.
• Discover the archaeological site of Lixus near Larache, an ancient Phoenician and Roman city. It's approximately a 1.5-hour drive (around 90 km) south of Tangier, offering a glimpse into Morocco's deep history.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Morocco, you generally need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one year, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English, French, Spanish, or Arabic. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or older, and a surcharge often applies for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Tangier vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars can start from around 20-25 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 40-70 EUR or more. Expect prices to increase by 30-50% during the peak summer months and major holidays.

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 national roads, and 120 km/h on highways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is 0.00%. Headlights should be used in tunnels and during periods of reduced visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 10 years old.

Parking

In Tangier, parking can be found in designated paid parking lots (often attended by 'gardiens de voitures' who expect a small fee, usually 5-10 MAD for a few hours, or 20-30 MAD overnight). Street parking is also available but can be challenging to find in busy areas, especially in the Medina surroundings. Always confirm the fee with the attendant beforehand. Free parking spots are rare in the city center.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is readily available across Tangier and along major routes. Most petrol stations are self-service, but attendants are often present to assist. Payment can usually be made with cash or card, though it's always wise to have some local currency (Moroccan Dirham) on hand. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent, currently around 13-15 MAD per liter (approximately 1.20-1.40 EUR per liter).

Which car to choose

For city driving in Tangier and excursions to nearby towns like Asilah or Tetouan, an economy or compact car is often sufficient and easier to navigate through narrow streets and find parking. If you plan to venture into the Rif Mountains (e.g., to Chefchaouen) or explore more rugged terrain, an SUV or a car with higher ground clearance is recommended for comfort and capability. A manual transmission is very common in Morocco, but automatics are available, though often at a higher price.

Frequently asked questions