Ramadan in Morocco: Travel Tips

Yes. Ramadan in Morocco is a special time to visit. The country stays open, flights and hotels work as normal, and you can see a side of Morocco that most tourists never see.

Some things change, though. Knowing them before you come will make your trip easy.

Ramadan moves about 10 days earlier each year. In 2027, it is expected to start around 8 February and end around 9 March. The exact date depends on the moon, so check one week before you travel.

The end of Ramadan is a big holiday called Eid al-Fitr.

Ramadan is the holy month for Muslims. During this month, Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke from sunrise to sunset. They pray more and spend time with family.

Do tourists have to fast? No. You can eat and drink as normal. But it is polite to do it in private.

1. Daytime is quiet.
Mornings are slow. Many shops open later and close early.

2. Some restaurants close during the day.
Many local cafes and small restaurants are closed until sunset. In big cities like Marrakech, Casablanca and Tangier, many places for tourists stay open.

3. Evenings are very busy.
After sunset, the streets come alive. Families eat together, markets are full, and cafes stay open late into the night.

4. Alcohol is harder to find.
Many bars and shops do not serve alcohol during Ramadan. Some hotels still serve it to guests.

5. Business hours are shorter.
Banks and offices work fewer hours. Plan your errands in the morning.

• Museums and palaces: Open, but hours may be shorter. Check before you go.
• Souks (markets): Open, but quiet in the morning and busy after sunset.
• Hammams: Open, but hours may change.
• Sahara Desert tours: They run as normal. February is cool, so it is a great time for the desert.
• Mosques: Most are closed to non-Muslims, as always. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca offers guided visits, but times can change during Ramadan.

Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Suhoor is the small meal before sunrise.

You should try these:

• Harira: a warm soup with tomatoes, lentils and chickpeas
• Dates: the first thing people eat at sunset
• Chebakia: a sweet, sticky cookie with honey
• Sellou: a sweet mix of nuts and seeds
• Msemen: a soft, flat bread
• Boiled eggs and mint tea: very common on the table

Many restaurants and hotels offer a special iftar menu. Ask your hotel to help you book one. If a Moroccan family invites you for iftar, say yes. It is a great honor.

• Do not eat, drink or smoke in the street during the day.
• Dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees.
• Be kind and patient. People may be tired and hungry in the afternoon.
• Do not play loud music near mosques.
• Avoid showing too much love in public, such as kissing.

Locals will smile when you say “Ramadan Mubarak”. It shows you care.

1. Eat a big breakfast. Some places will be closed at lunch.
2. Keep snacks and water in your bag for the day.
3. Start your day early. Visit sights in the morning.
4. Rest in the afternoon. The streets are quiet and the energy is low.
5. Go out after sunset. This is the best time to see the city.
6. Book iftar dinners early, especially in Marrakech.
7. Avoid traveling just before sunset. Roads and taxis are very busy.
8. Book early for Eid. Trains, buses and hotels fill up fast.
9. Be careful with time on road trips. Drivers may be tired, and cafes on the road may be closed.

• Marrakech: Many places stay open for tourists, and the nights are lively.
• Fes: Very traditional. The old medina feels magical after sunset.
• Casablanca: Modern, with many restaurants open all day.
• Tangier: Relaxed, with a mix of cultures and plenty of open cafes.
• Chefchaouen: Quiet and calm, great for rest.

Ramadan in Morocco is a beautiful time to travel. The days are quiet, the nights are full of life, and the food is amazing. A little planning and respect will give you a trip you will never forget.

Need help planning your trip? Contact us for a private tour made for Ramadan.