Whether you are exploring the lanes of the Marrakech medina, hiking in the Atlas Mountains or sleeping under the stars in the Sahara, where you stay shapes your trip. Morocco offers everything from modern hotels to traditional riads, family-run guest houses and unforgettable desert camps.
This guide explains each type of accommodation, what to expect, and how to choose the right place for your trip.
Hotels in Morocco
Every major city and resort has a good choice of hotels, from simple budget rooms to world-class luxury.
- Budget hotels – basic rooms at low prices, often near train and bus stations.
- Mid-range hotels – comfortable rooms, usually with breakfast, a swimming pool and Wi-Fi.
- Luxury hotels – international standards, fine restaurants, spas and personal service.
Good for: travellers who want modern comfort and easy booking. Keep in mind: chain hotels feel less local than a riad.
Riads
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house built around an inner courtyard or garden. Many have been restored as beautiful small hotels.
- Enjoy Moroccan design: zellige tiles, carved cedar wood and open courtyards.
- Receive personal service, as most riads are small and family-run.
- Stay in the heart of the medina, close to the souks and monuments.
- Relax on a rooftop terrace with views over the old city.
Keep in mind: riads can be hard to find in the maze of the medina, so ask your host to meet you. Rooms are often smaller than hotel rooms, but full of character.
Guest houses
Guest houses (often called dar or maison d’hôtes) offer a homely atmosphere, and your hosts often cook dinner for you. They are usually cheaper than hotels and are ideal for travellers who enjoy meeting local people. Many hosts can also help you arrange tours and transport.
Desert camps
A night in a Sahara camp is a highlight of any trip to Morocco. Most camps are in the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga, and you reach them by camel or by 4×4.
- Standard camps – traditional tents with comfortable beds and shared bathrooms.
- Luxury camps – spacious private tents with en-suite bathrooms, electricity and excellent meals.
Expect a sunset camel ride, dinner around the campfire, Berber music and a sky full of stars. We work with Mouhou Desert Camp in Erg Chebbi, which offers comfortable tents with private bathrooms.
Book accommodation in Morocco
Accommodation types compared
| Type | Price | Where | Atmosphere | Best for |
| Hotels | $ – $$$$ | Cities and resorts | Modern | Comfort and convenience |
| Riads | $$ – $$$ | Medinas | Traditional | Cultural immersion |
| Guest houses | $ – $$ | Towns and villages | Homely | Meeting local people |
| Desert camps | $$ – $$$$ | Sahara desert | Adventurous | A unique experience |
Where to stay in Morocco’s main destinations
- Marrakech – a riad inside the medina for atmosphere, or a hotel in Hivernage or the Palmeraie for space and pools. Famous addresses include La Mamounia and the Royal Mansour.
- Fes – historic riads with mosaic courtyards in Fes el-Bali, such as Riad Fes, or hotels with views over the medina.
- Chefchaouen – small guest houses and boutique hotels in the blue medina.
- Merzouga – a desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes, or a kasbah-style hotel at the edge of the sand.
- Essaouira – riads in the old walled medina or hotels along the beach.
- Ouarzazate and Skoura – kasbah hotels among the palm groves, ideal for breaking the journey to the desert.
- Casablanca, Tangier and Agadir – modern hotels near the seafront and business districts.
Tips for choosing accommodation
- Location matters – the medina is atmospheric but can be noisy and hard to navigate with luggage.
- Read recent reviews before you book.
- Think about the season – desert camps are most comfortable from October to April.
- Ask about transfers – many riads and hotels can arrange airport or station pick-ups.
- Breakfast – most stays include a Moroccan breakfast of bread, pancakes, jam and mint tea.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
Yes, especially in spring and autumn and around holidays, when the best riads in Marrakech and Fes fill up quickly.
Are riads safe?
Yes. Riads are generally very safe. As anywhere, lock your room and keep valuables secure.
Can I stay in the desert all year round?
Yes, but summer days are extremely hot. October to April is the most pleasant time.
Do hotels and riads have Wi-Fi?
Almost all do, although the connection can be slower in rural areas and desert camps.
Is tipping expected?
Tips are appreciated in Morocco, especially for housekeeping staff, porters and guides.