Travelling in Morocco during Ramadan: practical tips

A special month, a different rhythm

Ramadan is the month of fasting in the Islamic calendar. Because that calendar follows the moon, the dates move about ten or eleven days earlier each year, and the start is confirmed locally after the new moon is sighted. Visiting Morocco during Ramadan is entirely possible and can be a rich cultural experience, as long as you know that the rhythm of the day changes. This guide is for visitors, for Moroccans travelling between cities, and for anyone who shares the road with people who are fasting.

What changes during the day

• Mornings are calm. Many people start work later, and cities feel quieter.
• Shop and office hours shift. Schedules are often shorter, and some businesses close early afternoon.
• Small restaurants and cafés may close during the day, particularly in smaller towns, and reopen in the evening. Larger cities and tourist areas usually keep some places open.
• Public transport and services may run on adjusted schedules. Check before you go.

The evening is the heart of Ramadan

At sunset, the fast is broken with iftar. Families traditionally start with dates and a glass of water or milk, followed by harira soup, eggs, pastries such as chebakia and other dishes. After iftar the streets come alive: families visit each other, cafés fill up, markets stay open late and there is a festive atmosphere that continues for hours.

If you are invited to share an iftar, accept with pleasure. Bring something small, such as sweets or fruit, and arrive on time.

Being respectful as a visitor

• Dress modestly, especially away from tourist resorts.
• You are not required to fast if you are a visitor, but it is considerate to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in the street during the day. Doing so discreetly indoors is appreciated.
• Be patient with service in the late afternoon, when people are tired and thirsty.
• A simple greeting such as "Ramadan Mubarak" or "Ramadan Karim" is warmly received.
• Avoid loud music or behaviour in public spaces, especially at night.

Roads and travel: plan around iftar

Road traffic follows the rhythm of the day:

• Just before sunset, many people hurry to get home, and roads can be busy and tense. It is wise to avoid driving in this hour if possible, or to drive with extra patience.
• After iftar, roads are usually quieter for a short time, then lively again in the evening.
• Drivers who are fasting may feel tired, especially in the afternoon. Plan shorter stages, take breaks, and never push a driver to speed or skip a rest.
• If you are the driver, do not drive when you are very sleepy. Safety comes before the schedule.

If you are travelling as a passenger and are not fasting, tell the driver kindly that you will keep your water or snacks discreet and wait for stops if needed.

Planning the trip

• Book accommodation and transport earlier than usual for the days around the end of Ramadan, when many people travel to see family.
• Keep your plans flexible. Opening times can change, and many attractions run shortened hours.
• Pack snacks and water if you are travelling by road, since cafés on the way may be closed during the day.
• Choose cooler regions or evening activities if Ramadan falls in a hot season.

Eid al-Fitr: the big travel peak

The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, and the days before it see a huge movement of people between cities and towards home villages. Trains, buses and shared rides fill up quickly. Book early, leave extra time and expect busy roads, especially on the main motorways. Many businesses close for the holiday, so plan your meals and shopping in advance.

Share the road during Ramadan

On MySeatGO, you can publish or request a trip and agree on the departure time with the driver or passengers, taking iftar into account. The app is free, with no commission, and you pay the driver directly in cash. Confirm the meeting point and time ahead of the journey, and travel safely.