Travelling in Morocco During Ramadan: What Changes and How to Enjoy It
You can travel in Morocco during Ramadan without problems. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, so days are quieter, some cafés and restaurants close at lunchtime, and monuments may close earlier. Tourist restaurants and hotels stay open, tours run normally, and evenings come alive after iftar, the meal that breaks the fast. Non-Muslims are not expected to fast, but eating, drinking and smoking discreetly in public is respectful.
When is Ramadan?
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, so it moves about 10–11 days earlier each year. In 2026 it began around mid-February and ended around mid-March with Eid al-Fitr; in 2027 it is expected around early February to early March. Exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon and are confirmed by the authorities shortly before.
What changes for travellers
- Opening hours: shops open later in the morning; monuments and offices may have shorter hours.
- Food: local cafés may close in the day, but hotels, riads and tourist restaurants serve meals. Supermarkets stay open.
- Alcohol: sales are restricted during Ramadan; some hotels serve guests.
- Traffic: the hour before sunset is busy as everyone hurries home; then streets go quiet during iftar.
- Evenings: after iftar, squares, cafés and souks fill up and stay lively late into the night.
Tours during Ramadan
Day trips and desert tours operate as usual; drivers and guides are used to working while fasting, and lunch stops for guests continue. Be considerate: plan shorter days, avoid pushing for late finishes before sunset, and consider a tip. Our Sahara tours and Atlas day trips run throughout the month.
Experiencing iftar
Iftar usually starts with dates, milk, harira soup, chebakia (honey-sesame pastries), boiled eggs and msemen pancakes. Many riads offer guests a traditional iftar, and Jemaa el-Fnaa's stalls reopen after sunset. Learn more dishes in Moroccan food dishes to try.
Etiquette tips
- Avoid eating, drinking or smoking openly in the street during the day.
- Dress modestly, which is appreciated even more than usual.
- Be patient: people may be tired in the afternoon.
- Wish people "Ramadan Mubarak" or "Ramadan Karim".
Eid al-Fitr
The end of Ramadan is a family celebration over 1–2 days. Many shops close and transport is busy as people travel home, so book trains and buses early. See other celebrations in Morocco's festivals and holidays. For general cultural background, see Britannica's article on Ramadan.
Book it with a local operator
- From Marrakech: 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour to Merzouga with Camel Trek — from €145 per person, pay on the day.
- From Marrakech: Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains Day Trip with Waterfalls — from €25 per person, pay on the day.
- Marrakech: Street Food Tour by Night with 10+ Tastings — from €39 per person, pay on the day.
Related guides
- How to Make a Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives
- Moroccan Mint Tea: History, Ritual and How to Make It at Home
- Morocco Festivals and Holidays: A Month-by-Month Calendar for Travellers
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good idea to visit Morocco during Ramadan?
Yes, if you accept slower days and some closures. Tours run normally, and the festive evenings after iftar are a memorable cultural experience.
Can tourists eat in public during Ramadan in Morocco?
Non-Muslims are not required to fast. Eat in restaurants, hotels or your riad, and avoid eating or drinking openly in the street during the day.
Are restaurants open during Ramadan in Marrakech?
Many tourist restaurants, hotels and riads serve food in the day; local cafés may close until sunset.
Do tours run during Ramadan?
Yes. Day trips and desert tours operate normally throughout the month.
Main photo: Miansari66, Wikimedia Commons, CC0.
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