Moroccan police: 8 tips for driving in Morocco
Last updated on February 3rd, 2026.
It’s never great starting a post about the down side of traveling.
However, it’s real, and it happens more often than the majority of travel articles like to publicize.
That said, this is our cautionary tale about driving in Morocco, and being aware of the Moroccan police.
There have been times where I’ve seen the grittier side of police behavior while traveling, though not directly affected. The same can’t be said for our experience in Morocco.
A country full of incredible beauty and scenery, a road trip is a great way to see it all. That is, until you encounter the Moroccan police.
For first-time travelers to Morocco, it's normal not to know how certain things work. However, after our own experience of driving in Morocco, I want to share what happened to us.
Here are 8 things to know before driving in Morocco, and knowing how to deal with the Moroccan police.
Beware the Moroccan police when driving around Morocco
Hiring a car in Morocco
Unless you know of a good rental car company in Morocco, or through word of mouth, stick to the well-known names.
There’s a certain level of trust involved going with a reputable, and globally recognized, company. And if anything goes wrong, you've the safety net of being able to contact a representative once you're back home.
Listen to the locals
Before beginning our road trip around Morocco, we’d received some sound advice from a local in Marrakech.
A French national we'd met lived in Morocco and knew the country well. He'd also done plenty of road trips and was a sound person to listen to. On advising on Moroccan police if they stopped us, he made it very clear what we had to do:
'Put MAD 200 (£16; €18; $21) in your passport and hand it to the police. If they’re dodgy, they’ll hand it back empty. If they’re straight and think you’re trying to bribe them, act innocent. Say you forgot to take the money from your passport.’
Neither I or my husband took him seriously at the time. But, we'd soon find out that he was being completely serious.
Know the real cost of the fine
We were first stopped by the police en route from Essaouira to Ait Benhaddou. It would be the first stop of four that day.
To add some context, we were 100% driving below the speed limit of 60mph. This, however, wouldn't have made any difference.
The officer who stopped us, waved us to pull over holding something in his hand that looked like a megaphone. We later found out that it was a device to check for any speeding cars.
Polite in demeanor, he asked where we were from, and for our passport and car registration details. Taking the Frenchman’s advice, we’d already put MAD 150 (£12; €13; $16) just in case.
Following orders
The officer informed us that the usual fine was MAD 300 (£24; €27; $32). However, if we paid upfront it would be half. We’d later find out that MAD 150 was actually the standard fine.
After around 10 minutes of talking and signing some documents we were free to go. We left with our pockets a little lighter, and with them keeping the receipt. It was our first encounter with the crooked Moroccan police.
Map of Morocco
Illogical speed signs
I’ve nothing positive to write about the speed signs in Morocco.
Many that we passed were illogical and changed within a minute. On one particular road, we were following the recommended speed of 60mph.
Even with no houses in sight, we continued moving at a snail’s pace on the long dusty road.
Out of the blue, a taxi whizzed past us leaving a trail of dust behind them. Clearly, this driver was doing more than 60mph.
None of this mattered however, as we were stopped once again by the Moroccan police.
It was more frustrating the second time around as we could still see the dust clouds from the speeding taxi ahead. As the next officer began to ask us the same questions, I ended up losing my cool.
Speaking up may help
A 360° from my usual calm demeanor, I couldn’t contain my frustrations and confronted the officer.
I pointed out the clearly speeding taxi, to which he gruffly answered something incoherent all the while scowling at me.
Once he'd finished his interrogation, he gave us a warning and shooed us on our way.
It's a man's world
Morocco is a conservative country. Women are typically more docile and less likely to speak back, especially to male figures of authority.
Saying that, It was probably not common for a foreign woman, especially someone of color, to speak up.
Should you find yourself in the same situation when driving in Morocco go with your gut feeling.
I'm not encouraging anyone to speak back to the Moroccan police. But, there's a part of me that thinks that speaking out saved us from getting another fine.
Stick to the highways when driving in Morocco
As much as possible, try sticking to the highways when driving in Morocco.
They've some great routes, like Marrakech to Essaouira, and Fes, Rabat and Casablanca to Marrakech. The roads are excellent, never busy and more importantly, without any police stops.
Tranquil pay tolls
There are payment tolls, but it’s a small price to pay than having to deal with the stress of corrupt Moroccan police.
There's one downside when driving on the highways and they come in the form of illogical speed signs. Similar to the signs on the main roads, highway road signs can change at any moment.
We remember driving at 100mph then having to quickly reduce to 80, 60 then 40 all within meters of each other.
It’s enough to make you feel like they're trying to catch you out. That, or someone at the traffic department of Morocco is having a great laugh at the traveler’s expense.
There are some good apples
If the agenda wasn't obvious, the majority of Moroccan police that stop you want money.
From all the times we were stopped driving around Morocco, we only met two honest police officers (a unit). They gave us a receipt, didn’t try to make funny small talk, and went through the proper procedure.
Even though we still had to pay a fine, they behaved in the correct manner, were cordial and professional.
Consider hiring a driver
Despite the many mishaps we had with the Moroccan police, we still had an enjoyable time driving in Morocco.
If we'd to do it over again, we’d likely hire a driver.
However, this option is one that also requires researching as it can be a hit or miss experience. You never know what kind of company/driver that you're going to get.
I’m 80% sure, however, that you won't have as many run-ins with corrupt police.
Another way of avoiding the police in Morocco altogether is to book a guided tour. You get to see the best sights of the country led by local experts who know it best.
And so over to you. Have you ever driven in Morocco, or are thinking of doing a road trip? Drop me a comment (or a rant) below. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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We booked a holiday in Morocco for 9 days but leaving after 3 days myself shocked and also my kids of the police abuse for crossing some line or something like that 30 minutes after we rented a car and wanted to go eat, tried to park the car. Well, left hungry and shocked and decided to leave this horrible country. I have been to Asia and Africa before, travel a lot but its the first time, Im actually scared and not just the criminals but police...never coming back here or spend another dime in such an awful place.
I'm so sorry to read about your experience. We stayed the duration of our trip and did enjoy our time in Morocco. But the dodgy police officers we encountered made our trip really difficult
I’ve been to Morocvo several times and hired a tour guide each time. Getting stopped by the police seems fairly common, honestly, but we have not been extorted for money. They do check papers to make sure he has a valid license, permission to drive a tourist, things like that. The biggest advantages a native driver has are knowledge of the laws and a command of the language. I’m not saying there aren’t corrupt police - every nation has some - but I think Morocco has a very different system for controlling their roads than we are used to in the US. Sadly, it sounds like they may take advantage of foreign visitors, though.
Thank you for your insight Kim. We're European and not used to the system in Morocco or the USA. I think we were just unlucky. Because all the other Moroccan tour guides weren't stopped once and definitely not the taxi drivers
i do hope that i wont get into troubels with the police on our driving self tour nexr april
Be attentive there!
My wife and I have been stopped and extorted for money by the police under false speeding charges 3 times in a week. First time an official ticket was issued. They said we were doing 70 in a 60 which was complete false, but we paid 150dh. After that we made sure we were driving at least 10 under the limit at all times which makes travel an absolute hell here. We were stopped again between fes and merzouga they said we were going 12 over the limit. Our options were pay 150 with a ticket or 100witbout. I chose the second option to avoid confrontation. Next, literally 3km down the road we were stopped AGAIN! with the same story, in which we replied that it was impossible that we were speeding. After arguing for a couple minutes, the officer called someone (presumably the previous officer) said something in Arabic (neither of us speak) and shoo’d us away.. this corruption is absolutely disgusting and is ruing the reputation of their own country. A local informed us to film the interaction, demand the radar reading and call our home country’s embassy of this occurs again. I love the country and the people residing within have been nothing but welcoming, but the police have absolutely ruined our experience in this country. Excuse the rant, just very frustrated. Wish us luck in our final week.
Hi Jay, I'm so sorry you're experiencing this and completely understand. It's such a shame that things haven't improved since our trip there. I think you should film the interaction if it happens again, and even the road you're on, speed signs etc. As I said in my post, if you can, try to stick to the highways, you have less trouble there. I wish you luck in your final week, Morocco is truly beautiful to explore.
Thanks for posting – for anyone still reading these comments a quick tip – Moroccan police are all now issued with either body or helmet cameras that record their interactions with the public. This is in an attempt to stamp out bribes. If you’re being questioned by an officer without a camera - ask him or her to go and put it on. This should at least ensure they go through the correct procedure.
Hi Ollie, thank you so much for the tip and update! I will insert the link into the post for other travelers visiting Morocco.
We were with a private tour headed to Merzouga and this happened to us. Our tour van was stopped but the police who had our Moroccan driver get out of the car but not before grabbing some paperwork. They walked around to the back of the van and the officer walked away with a swagger and wave. I think the corruption knows no limits.
Hi Amy, thank you for sharing your story. I can't believe it's still happening, and you were with a private tour guide! It's something the Moroccan government should do something about. It doesn't bode well for tourism.
Thanks for your article. and really helpful..
it's pity that I am reading your write after this already happened to me. 🙁
today I paid MAD 200 to officer in Marrakech downtown. Officer said I passed signal that I didn't see any signal.
I'm sorry to read that! And can't believe they're still pulling the same tricks! Super shady those Moroccan police!
Thanks for writing the truth. In general Moroccan police are crooks and dangerous. I have had enough experiences travelling in Morocco to believe anything as I have things happen to me numerous times. It is shameful and disgusting that despite this being common knowledge the government turns a blind eye. It seriously makes me turned off about travelling in Morocco and having to worry about crooked police officers should be the least of anyone's concern considering police officers are suppose to be the people you go to seek help and protection. I am going to be heading back to Morocco for a 2 week road trip. I am seriously tempted to have a visual and audio recording device in the car to happily capture this BS on camera and put it on youtube to highlight this. This issues seem to be worse in smaller cities/ places. I am going to try my best to remain on the high way to avoid this type of nonsense. When people continue to pay bribes they are part of the problem.
Thank you for sharing your experience. Sadly, ours was frustrating but we learnt so much from it. I hope your next travels are better on the road, let me know how you get on!
The entire country is corrupt. That is the culture in Morocco.
It's a shame, because the country's stunning.
I have driven in Morocco and usually they have hidden cameras set up on some roads and this is how they make their money. I was on some road from Kenitra to Khemisset and there was no speed limit posted. The officer that was waiting for me then preceeded to tell me I show know the limit even if it is not posted. I told him. I'm American. I don't know his country's laws. He then wanted about 400 Dh for me speeding. I told him I had no money but I lied. I wanted to see what he would do. He let me go... I knew then he was crooked because he only wanted money and having to deal with me further would delay him getting back to being a highway bandit.
Oh wow, I'm so sorry to hear about your experience. That officer asked for a lot of money, the standard when we were there was 200 dirhams. I hope you reported it to the authorities, even the US Embassy.
Awesome post. I’m Moroccan and I literally understand and know what you mean.great post and thanks for sharing
Thank you! I'm happy you read it, and sorry you understand what I mean!
The Moroccan police do sound notorious. As much as I would not like to bribe them, I do think that the advice given by your friend is handy. I do love road trips in places that I visit but in this case, either I will hire a local driver or cab or possibly just stick to the old fashioned public transport.
I totally understand, and you're right, in these kind of places, bribing is almost normal!
This is a very candid post and valuable information for anyone planning a road trip in Morocco. Always associated Morocco with exotic landscapes and fairytale culture. But this is a flipside and one just needs to be prepared for it.
Thanks Sandy, I'm very happy to read your honest feedback. Yes, it's something all travellers need to be aware of.
Wow - I'm sorry to hear that! It's unfortunate, but it seems like police prey on innocent tourists because they'll do almost anything to stay out of trouble and it's often easy to make a quick buck. I'm glad you talked back though - that sort of thing actually works in Morocco, where they care a lot about tourism. But I wouldn't try that with the Arabs in the Middle East lol.
I usually rent a car no matter where I go because I like the freedom it gives. I may just pass up on it in Morocco though now that I've read this.
I'm sorry Samah, I didn't want to put anyone off taking a road trip! Morocco's a stunning country, and I still urge everyone to visit, just maybe to be cautious of the obstacles with the police!
Really Really handy guide and fun to read! That's so unfortunate that you can't drive and just be in ease. It's not fun when the signs aren't something you are use to as well. I love how you talked back at him, I mean why not? Way to go on avoiding that "fine"!
Haha thanks you! The officer really didn't look pleased, but yes it was worth it not to get another nonsense fine!
Not a cool thing to drive in Morocco if the police officers are more into getting bribed. Really sad! Especially the illogical speed signs are ridiculous. The speed-checkers are also scary. Thanks for such a straightforward post Lisa.
You're welcome, and thank you for commenting. It's not great writing about it, but I have a duty to share my experience.
wow what an experience! Its sad to read about visiting countries where you know you wouldn't be able to get help from police unless you pay them. Ive never been in Morocco but I would love to visit. Not sure if I choose to rent a car there and do a road trip.
I'd still encourage people to visit as it's a beautiful place, but yes, maybe avoid driving there or be aware of the police!
This is a harrowing experience. I think it happens in many of the places. But its good, you enjoyed the road trip and the beauty of the country. Thanks for these great tips.
You're welcome, and yes, you're right, it happens a lot more than people write about.
We are heading to Morocco this summer and have just started researching the trip. This is definitely useful information as we often tend to opt to hire a car and drive ourselves.
That's great, but just be sure to do as much research so you end up with a good driver!
that is a crazy experience! I never knew this is going on in Morocco! I also didn't know that women can't talk back to men in Morocco but that's good that you avoided another fine.
It's not that they can't, it's more that they don't! We had a good time regardless but I'm not sure I would do it again 😀
Oh so glad you've posted this Lisa, As you know I'm heading to Morocco, although I'm only going for the week, my friends that I'm meeting are staying a lot longer and were discussing about renting a car for the rest of the trip after I leave. I will be passing this straight onto them. Reading through this though gave me a sense of De-ja-vu from other countries I've travelled to were police target tourists on the roads. It's happened to me in Bali - In Bali it normally happens during low season, Police set up illegal stops ask for you licence, will make something up and threaten to arrest you or just pay a on the spot fine (bribe) but over there you just ignore them and keep driving. - So I can feel your frustration, especially at getting stopped 4 times in one day. Your advise with the money in the passport was similar to what I had been told by local tax drivers as they got to know me. - It's not just Morocco, cops all over the world try and do the same.
I know corruption's everywhere, and I can imagine it was the same travelling in Bali. I just felt so strongly about this issue and had to share it with others! Hopefully, you'll have a better experience driving, fingers crossed 😀
I visited Morocco for the first time last year, but didn't do any driving. Although I'd love to return and explore more of Morocco, I'm not sure I'll drive after reading this! Plus, I've also heard that if you accidentally drive into an area where there are illegal marijuana crops, it can be dangerous. Nonetheless, I do still hope to return! Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed your pictures as well.
Wow, we definitely didn't hear that when there, that's pretty frightening! I'd like to return someday too, but this time I'll think twice about a driver!
As a person who loves to self drive in new countries, I have fortunately never had run ins with the cops in SA or croatia. THANK GOD! I know it can be unpleasant in a new land and cops can pretty much get money from foreigners by simply threatening (Coz you wouldn't know better). this is great info, bookmarked for when I visit Morocco - NO self drive haha.
Lol I'm sorry to put you off the self-drive option, it's still a good adventure! But yes, the constant police stops became tiresome after a while...
Gosh thanks for the heads up I am sure this is going to help a few people. It is really sad that this has happened to such a beautiful country but at the same time you took some awesome pictures and had an adventure to write about.
It's a real shame it happened, but I know it's not only in Morocco. I managed to take some incredible photos, you're right about that!
I never thought about hiring a car and driving in Morocco while we were there. I'm glad you had a real adventure driving there despite the cops situation!
Thankfully we did, thanks for taking the time to comment!
It’s always important to share the downsides of travelling, especially when it can help other travellers out. I would still travel to Morocco at the moment even though some people think it's unsafe. I didn't know that you needed to be so cautious about the Police as well, though - that's always good to know about when you are travelling to a new country.
I completely agree Kacie. It's never great writing about the bad things, but it exists!
Wow. This is excellent advice for when traveling to Morocco. I had no idea the police were so corrupt there but I will definitely keep this in mind.
Please do! It's a great country, but driving there can be stressful.
Wow, this sounds like a crazy experience! It adds to my desire to stick with public transport in a foreign country. Find someone reputable and let them deal with the police.
I totally agree! I think I'd get a good driver if I ever return, we'll see!
I had no idea that this was a thing! Thanks for the advice. I'm usually all about road trips, but I might think twice about taking one in Morocco. I'm going to be staying tuned for more of your posts on Morocco!
Thank you, there are more to come, but all good I promise!
Very good advice! We enjoyed our time in Morocco and are so glad that we went, but it definitely wasn't the easiest place to travel on many levels. I like the idea of hiring a driver--we'd probably do that if we went back to Morocco.
Thanks Kate, I'm glad you agree! It's a stunning place, but yes, not the easiest of countries to travel long term.
It’s very important for people to share experiences like this. Yes, it’s not one I’m sure you recall with great fondness, but the sad fact is stuff like this does happen, and it’s useful to know - as was your friend’s half joking advice. Had it not been for that, it might have been even worse...Thanks for sharing this. I loved Morocco when I visited, but did not drive there. Reading this, I’m glad I didn’t.
Thanks Joe for your feedback. Yes I agree it's important to share the downsides, because it happens, and more often than travel bloggers care to write about!
Thanks for warning us Lisa. The police sounds as corrupt in Morocco as in India so I’m not very surprised about be bribe bit. I guess it was great advice by your French friend there and I always take such advise by locals or people who’ve been living in a country for a while, seriously. I can imagine how pissing off it would have been for you to watch those cops let the speeding taxi go by and stop you because they could see you’re foreigners. I would’ve also spoken out despite knowing you’re in a foreign country and that in most Middle eastern countries it’s not considered polite for women to speak to men in such ‘important’ matters. Again, I’m glad I read this post and I’d certainly look at hiring a driver and taxi rather than letting my husband drive, if we ever visit Morocco. Thanks for the tip!
You're very welcome! I know corruption exists everywhere, but it's such a shame when it dents on the travelling experience. End of the day we're here to embrace the country, culture and its people. Lol to me getting pissed off; I could no longer contain myself!
oh wow.. probably if our friends also told us that put money on the passport we would laugh as well..hehe..it is funny.. i have never visited any such corrupt places..glad atleast u all were safe..thanks for the tips..have taken a note (literally) of what you mentioned 😉
That's brilliant, and I hope it helps if you ever get to Morocco!
Hey thanks for the warning! I will keep this in mind before I head to Morocco and rent a car. The landscape looks really barren and interesting. 🙂
You're welcome! It's an incredible country, but you do need to be aware of the police if driving!
Oh my! That's one awful experience! Thanks for sharing it, so atleast your readers won't face the same trouble! I really wouldn't want to face such an issue in a foreign country. I really may not try hiring a car without a driver there!
I totally understand. It was stressful at times and I'm glad we did it, but I had to share it with everyone!
Driving in a foreign country can always be daunting and at best I try and avoid it unless it is necessary. Sorry to hear about your experience but can totally understand how it must have felt. It is important to share such experiences though as you did so that everyone else can go prepared. Thank you for that.
You're welcome, and I'm just happy to be able to warn others thinking of doing the same! It's totally worth it in the end, but you do have to prepare for the crooked cops!
That's super interesting! I've heard stories about some countries having crooked police officers, but I can't imagine being pulled over four times in a single day for "speeding." That seems a bit excessive. Thanks for sharing your tips, and if I go to Morocco, I'll definitely consider hiring a driver instead!
Thanks Deni, I'm glad you found it helpful. A driver can also be hit or miss, so just make sure you do your research beforehand 🙂
Thanks for such an honest and helpful post, this will be so helpful to someone planning to drive. I don't think I'm brave enough to try and drive there and would hire a driver instead! Glad you still enjoyed your trip.
We did Rosie, very much! However during these moments, there were times when I really wanted to scream at the officers to leave us alone, and go after the real speeding culprits!
Thanks for this honest post, Lisa! We've never been to Morocco, but reading this makes me not want to have a road trip there. If the one police officer didn't like it when you talked back (normal that you cracked I would too!), I don't even want to know what he would say when he sees a couple of lesbians who keeps talking back! I'm not sure that putting MAD 500 in our passports would make him let us go... I think it would be best that we try to get a tour when we travel to Morocco. OR perhaps just learn to shut our mouth if a police stops us.
You guys are awesome, I love your feedback! Lol I don't know how the cops would respond to you, but I love that you'd also have enough! It's really a beautiful place, and corruption exists everywhere. However, I'd suggest researching a great driver (they do exist) and enjoying Morocco the scenic way!
Oh my goodness, this is unreal. However, I'm glad you posted this and it is GREAT info to know for anyone travelling by road in morocco. I think hiring a car would realistic as their transport system is almost non-existent. eek, i'd get angry too, but i guess they get away with this thing in the end!
Unfortunately you're so right Bee, but I couldn't take it anymore! It's an amazing experience to drive Morocco, but as long as you're prepared to encounter some shady cops...
We are yet to make it to Morocco but whenever we do we would love to do a road trip, the landscapes look stunning. Though hiring a driver sounds safe and less stressful self-drive would be fun. This post is very informative for someone who is looking to drive through Morocco, we usually don't get to read such experiences so thanks for sharing this, bookmarking this for future reference.
You're very welcome guys! Self-driving was fun overall, but we did feel we were constantly looking over our shoulder (or ahead in this case) for the police!
The African desert landscape really beckons to everyone so I guess we just have to learn how to deal with the idiosyncrasies of it, including the police. The same in Manila before!
Ah no, that's a shame to hear! I know corruption's everywhere, but it's sad for the travellers who want to go home and tell others to visit.
Ooh, I probably would have lost it too! I think I'd be all for hiring a driver, even though I do love a good road trip. I think the stress of dealing with the police would counterbalance whatever reservations I had about not being the one driving.
I hear you, and unfortunately we learned the hard way this trip! Still, it's a valuable lesson learned.
A road trip in Morocco sounds great but it's a shame that the police are making is so hard for foreign tourists, believing that they are full of money and willing to bribe them all the time. It reminds me of my home country and of Bulgaria, 10-15 years ago. It was about the same situations, with corrupt police.
That's a shame to hear you're familiar with the concept in Bulgaria too, and like you said, it's a real shame.
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Thanks so much, I really appreciate the feedback! I'll definitely check yours out too 😀
A road trip in Morocco sounds like a fun experience. But thanks for your personal insights, at least know we know what to do (and what not to do) when there. When I do a road trip on a foreign country, I tend to stick with a car for hire too, less worries for me!
I think we've definitely learned that hiring a driver is the way forward for our next trip!
Such a bummer but I'm glad you still enjoyed your road trip. I tend to err on the side of caution and hire a driver if I don't feel absolutely confident in the situation- seems like I'll be sticking to that plan if I ever visit Morocco! Way to stick up for yourself in such a tricky situation!
Thank you! I was at the end of my tether and had enough! Don't follow my example though; it could have turned out differently!
We never thought about hiring a car and driving in Morocco when we were there. I think the cab ride from the airport to Marrakech was enough for us and I closed my eyes alot. Sounds like you had a real adventure driving there in not a great way. It is a shame about the dirty cops that is for sure.
It's a real shame Mel. I know corruption's everywhere, but having such direct experience really imprints on your travel memories.
This article is so useful as we are considering going to Morocco next year. After reading this, no way we will rent a car, it will be cheaper to hire a driver than paying dirty cops. Such a shame they are taking advantage of tourists.
Thanks Oana, and I hope I haven't put you off! It's a beautiful country, and yes, it's a shame they're taking advantage of the tourists that want to see their country and add to the economy! Still. I'd suggest researching a good driver, and I hope you find some to choose from 🙂
It’s nice to be aware of this things when visiting some countries,also how to be well prepared when they occur. Very, very helpful post for anyone wanting to visit Morocco.
Thanks Unta, I really appreciate your feedback!
When I lived in Thailand I used to get stopped by police all the time and what we call corruption is normal behavior there. I think if I was to drive long distance in Morocco I would speed everywhere, hopefully too fast for the police to stop me. If they did stop me at least the money I gave them would be for my speeding privilege.
This is a brilliant response James, and I wish we thought like you, but we were too scared of the thought of spending a night in a Moroccan jail! A speeding privilege would be a first 😀
I appreciate posts like this so thank you. Morocco may be a wonderful place to visit, but if I have to deal with this type of stuff, it's just too stressful and not worth it to me when there are other places on my list to see. A driver would be a good option, but like you say, you never know if you are getting a reputable one. Sad.
You're welcome Jamie. It's never nice writing about this side but it happens. It was stressful at times, I won't lie, so maybe a driver (good one!) is the way to go 🙂
Jamie I was born and live in the u.k and i visit morocco every year, even driving from u.k to morocco numerous times. Yes the police do accept bribes, however this is a positive rather than a negative i see it as if you make a mistake from not understanding the road signs or system etc - you have a quick out which is to just hand over $10-20.
You may if driving a foreign vehicle (mine has u.k number plates) be stopped more frequently then others. (typically i get stopped twice in a month long holiday) if you are polite, have all your paperwork in order and speak french or arabic then you do not have to part with your monday. If you are caught speeding however, or on a one way road or stopping where there are red markings- then you have a choice of paying a fine or a bribe.
There is no reason for you to be afraid or nervous about driving in morocco then over any other foreign country. Hope this helps
Thank you Hesham for sharing your experience.
It's a shame that these sorts of things happen on the road - but they do. It's great to be aware of them and also how to be prepared when they occur. Hopefully one day these sorts of things will be things of the past.
I completely agree, as it really spoils the traveller experience. Tourism's so important for a country's economy and reputation, so this kind of behaviour, and from law enforcers, will do more harm than good.
No way, that's just terrible. There are so many places like this with corruption within law enforcement. I would seriously be hiring a driver next time! Thanks for the heads up.
You're welcome! It was a real downside to Morocco unfortunately, but you live and learn 🙂
Very helpful advice for anyone wanting to drive in Morocco. Corruption in some places is rife and it's important that anyone travelling to these destinations understands so they don't get taken advantage of. Interesting trick about the money in the passport as a way of determining whether someone is honest or not! Maybe hiring a driver is a good idea for some and certainly something I would consider.
Thanks Juliette. Yes, it's never great writing about the negatives to travel, but it's important to share stories and tips so others are prepared!
I drove from Cueta through to fez ,something like nothing I'd ever seen (Australia takes some beating)scenery ,people the real Africa was 5star .However take a bag of sweets with you when you get stopped by the police give them one and one for his partner .They cut the fine in half (I went through a red light )plus both saluted us after ther put the fine in the there top pocket .dont argue with them just smile give them a sweet and pay the 18£ or be a village idiot rant at them whilst his hand in on his gun ,thinking you are in England ,not there country .Its the way it is ,if you don't like that sort of stuff sit at home in front of your TVs and watch it .
I heard that a young guy started ranting at the Nigerian border guard about a gift ,a few years ago he was shot and killed by him .Your life isn't worth it for a few quid ,principles no good when you are dead .or in the famous words of seargent launderdale (guns at Batasi fame)"this isn't England you know"but Morrocans everywhere there looking for a tip ,it's great place to go to fuel and tolls very cheap with an amazing motorway system ,can't recommend it enough .you will come back and say did I really just do that .
On a motorcycle holiday in Morocco now.
We have had no trouble with the Police but we are not assuming kph signs are mph!
That might have helped you.
Also drivers coming the other way always flash to warn you.
Road surfaces can be atrocious and Moroccan is some of the worst I've seen.
Take great care.
Im a bit surprised at all this, Ive driven to Morocco 4 or 5 times now and NEVER had a problem with the police or their checkpoints and almost always get waved through. The same goes with the military checkpoints in the Sahara near the Algerian border. I go with five or six other 4x4 vehicles led by an English tour guide. We spend days in the desert and drive many days off piste on "tracks"
Thanks David for sharing your experience, and you're lucky. We didn't have the best time driving in Morocco, though we still enjoyed it.