a reasonable network in that area.
Return With larger agencies you can hire the car in one place and leave it elsewhere, although
this usually involves a fee (typically Dh2000), even if you want to return the vehicle in a city
where the company has a branch. Companies charge per hour (Dh100 is not uncommon) for
every hour that you go over time on the return date.
Motorcycle
» » Motorcycle touring is becoming popular, but many bikes are unfamiliar in Morocco,
particularly those with larger capacity engines, so repairs can be tricky.
» » Some basic maintenance knowledge is essential.
» » You should carry a good tool kit and all necessary spares, including cables and levers, inner
tubes, puncture repair kit, tyre levers, pump, fuses, chain, washable air filter and cable ties.
» » Some insurance policies do not allow foreign motorcycle licences to be used in Morocco.
» » Some companies offer motorcycle (Dh300 per day for a DT 125cc Yamaha) and scooter
(from Dh150 per day) hire.
» » Horizons Unlimited (www.horizonsunlimited.com) has a wealth of advice on biking in the
region.
Parking
» » In many towns, parking zones are watched by gardiens de voitures (car-park attendants).
» » Technically, you do not have to pay them unless they can give you a ticket, which shows
they are working for the municipality. Nonetheless, it’s generally a good idea to pay a few
dirham towards a trouble-free parking experience.
» » The parking attendants are not a guarantee of safety, but they do provide some peace of
mind and will no doubt offer to wash your car for you.
» » In an increasing number of big city centres, parking tickets are issued from kerbside
machines (Dh2 to Dh3 per hour for a maximum stay of two hours). Parking is free on Sundays.
» » Parking is not allowed on kerbsides painted in red and white stripes.
» » Stopping is not allowed on green and white stripes.
» » Fines for illegally parked cars can reach Dh1500.
» » Wheel clamps are used in many cities, including Rabat and Casablanca, for illegal parking.
Roadblocks
» » Police control points are common on main roads in and out of most sizable towns.
» » Foreigners are unlikely to be stopped, but it’s still a good idea to slow down and put on
your best smile. You’ll probably get a smile in return and be waved through.
» » Roadblocks are also common in sensitive areas like the Western Sahara; the Rif Mountains
around the cannabis-producing region of Ketama; and the road to Figuig near the Algerian
border.
» » Police are more vigilant in these areas, but at most, you will be asked to show your
passport, driving licence and vehicle’s papers, and asked the purpose of your visit and where
you’re heading.
Road Hazards
Accident rates are high; road accidents killed some 4000 people and injured more than 100,000
in 2009.
Your fellow motorists will often be haphazard or aggressive drivers, particularly in towns,
which can make negotiating urban streets a hair-raising experience. Treat all vehicles as ready