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Wondering if you can use Uber in Morocco? I’ve got you covered!
Many of us from Western Europe or North America have gotten used to being able to instantly summon a taxi with the tap of a button using the Uber app. But Uber doesn’t exist in Morocco. So what are the alternatives?
As a solo female traveller, I’ve always hesitated to hail a random taxi from the street because it felt unsafe. Like many other women, I prefer using apps like Uber where there’s some level of accountability and I can easily share my location with friends. It provides that extra sense of security.
I’ve visited Morocco several times and even though there are many things I love about the country, it is also the worst place for getting scammed. Taxi scams are especially rampant in Morocco. So when I needed a taxi, I had a bit of a stressful time trying to figure out what was the best way to get around without falling victim to a scammer!
Luckily for you, I’ve done all the research and figured out the best Uber alternatives and taxi apps in Morocco so you don’t have to stress.
🚗 You’ll need data to use Uber or any other taxi app. Free WIFI isn’t always available in Morocco, so I suggest using an international eSim to avoid roaming charges. This eSim can be used in 190 countries around the world!
Hi, I’m JJ!
I’m a travel blogger with a passion for unique travel destinations, discovering hidden gems, and adventurous solo travel.
I’ve visited Morocco several times and as a solo female traveller, I certainly feel safer if I can use a taxi app rather than just flagging down a random taxi in a city I don’t know.
I’ve created this guide to help you feel safer too!
I hope you enjoy my free guides and travel tips! If so, please consider supporting my work 💕
Is There Uber In Morocco?
Unfortunately, Uber is no longer available in Morocco. It operated in Morocco from 2015 to 2018 but has since left the country.
Don’t worry though, there are plenty of other options that will make your travel in Morocco much easier and safer.
Why Did Uber Leave Morocco?
In February 2018, Uber discontinued all of its services in the country just three years after it started. This was mainly due to Morocco’s ‘Taxi Mafia’ problem.
The taxi drivers in Casablanca protested against what they called “unfair competition” from Uber and even posed as fake passengers to harass and force Uber drivers out of their vehicles.
This was the official statement from Uber at the time:
“Unfortunately, since our launch in Morocco, almost 3 years ago, we have not had any clarity about integrating applications like Uber into the existing transport model. That’s why we make the difficult decision to suspend our activity in Morocco”.
It’s a shame that Uber couldn’t succeed in Morocco, as it would have been a great addition to the transportation options for locals and tourists alike.
But don’t worry, there are still safe and reliable ways to get around in Morocco without Uber.
Taxi Apps In Morocco – 5 Best Uber Alternatives
1. Careem
Although Uber may have left Morocco, its Middle Eastern subsidiary Careem is still operating in the country. Careem has a similar booking process to Uber and operates in Rabat, Casablanca, and Tangier.
2. Roby
Roby is a local ride-hailing app that provides services with licensed taxis instead of private cars like Uber did. The app has a user-friendly interface and is available in various languages, including English.
3. Heetch
Heetch works similarly to Roby, calling official taxis to your location rather than private cars. It claims its prices are cheaper than regular taxis and also offers options for women-only rides at night.
4. InDrive
InDrive (formally called InDriver) is a global ride-hailing app that operates in Marrakech and several other big cities in Morocco.
It has a unique feature where passengers can choose their driver from a list of available drivers before booking a ride. They also have many safety features which puts me at ease when using the app.
Getting Around Without Taxi Apps
If you’re travelling to Morocco and don’t want to use taxi apps, there are still plenty of transportation options available:
Official taxis: Called ‘petit taxis’ these can be easily identified by their specific colours depending on the city, in Marrakech they are yellow, in Casablanca they are red and in Rabat they are blue. They are a fairly safe and reliable way to get around, but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in and watch out for the common scams that I have listed below.
Grand taxis: These larger, shared taxis operate for longer distances and have fixed routes and fares.
City buses: For an affordable option, you can take the local city bus to get around within cities.
Trains: Morocco has a well-connected train system that is reliable and affordable.
Walking: Many cities in Morocco have a compact layout, making it easy to explore on foot. Plus, you’ll get to see more of the local culture and daily life while walking around.
Remember, ride-hailing apps may be convenient, but they are not the only way to get around in Morocco. With these alternatives, you can still navigate the country easily and efficiently.
How Much Are Taxis In Morocco?
One of the most common concerns for travellers in Morocco is how much they should pay for a taxi ride.
Taxis hailed off the street rarely have a meter running and instead, prices need to be negotiated beforehand.
Haggling is a big part of Moroccan culture but can be difficult for tourists to get used to. The first price quoted will usually be much higher than the normal rate (like up to 10x higher!), so it’s important to negotiate and haggle down to agree on a fair price before getting into the cab.
Here are some tips to help you get a fair price:
- Ask your hotel or hostel staff what the average fare is from your location to your desired destination. This will give you a good idea of what to expect and help you negotiate.
- Settle on a price before getting in the cab. Try to agree on an amount that is close to the average fare mentioned by your hotel or hostel staff.
- If the driver refuses to lower their initial price, don’t be afraid to walk away and find another taxi. There are plenty of taxis in Morocco, so don’t feel pressured to accept an unfair price.
- Keep small bills and change on hand. This will make it easier to pay the exact amount agreed upon without having to worry about getting the correct change back.
💁🏻♀️JJ’s Top Tip: While haggling for a taxi may seem like a hassle, or even kind of intimidating, try to think of it as a challenge or an adventure. After all, haggling is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture!
Taxis From Marrakech Airport
It’s important to note that ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem do not operate in Marrakech.
This means that upon arriving at the airport, you will not be able to use these services to get to your hotel.
Some taxis wait outside of the airport however, it is incredibly common for tourists to get scammed by these taxi drivers.
To avoid getting scammed by taxi drivers, I highly recommend booking a private shuttle service in advance. This way, you can rest assured knowing that you’ll have a safe and reliable transportation option waiting for you.
Plus, with a pre-booked shuttle, you won’t have to worry about negotiating prices or dealing with any potential scams.
🚕 Click here to book a private transfer from Marrakech Airport
Taxi Scams in Morocco
I love Morocco, it’s a beautiful country with a fascinating culture and so many unique experiences to be had. However, there is one huge downside to Morocco and that is the risk of being scammed!
Nowhere else in the world have I encountered as many blatant scammers as I have in Morocco, especially in Marrakech. It’s such a shame because it puts a bit of a dampener on an otherwise fantastic trip.
But knowledge is power, so let me tell you about some common taxi scams in Morocco and how to avoid them.
Fake Taxi Meters
This is probably the most commonly reported taxi scam in Morocco. Many taxi drivers will “forget” to turn on their meter or claim that it’s broken and try to charge you a higher fixed rate.
Always make sure the meter is running and if it’s not, insist on it being turned on or find another taxi.
Taking Longer Routes
Some taxi drivers may take longer routes to increase the fare. This is especially true for trips from the airport, where drivers may take a detour to inflate the fare.
If possible, use a navigation app to ensure you’re taking the most direct route. If you don’t have access to the internet or data, ask your hotel or a local for an estimation of the fare beforehand and compare it to what the driver is asking.
Overcharging Tourists
Unfortunately, tourists are often seen as easy targets and may be charged higher rates than locals. This is especially true for taxis from the airport, where drivers may try to take advantage of tired and jet-lagged travellers.
It’s always a good idea to research average taxi fares in advance or ask your hotel staff for an estimation so you have a rough idea of how much you should be paying.
Taxi Touts
In popular tourist areas, there are often groups of people posing as taxi drivers and offering rides at inflated prices.
These are typically unlicensed and uninsured, making them dangerous to use. Make sure to only take taxis from official taxi stands or hail a licensed taxi on the street.
The Bamboozle
Taxi drivers will often try to take advantage of the fact that tourists aren’t familiar with the local currency. They will rush you whilst you are trying to count out the correct notes and or try to ‘help’ you find the correct change by pretending to have the correct amount and then giving you less in return.
Another common scam is that they will hand your money over to a boy on the street to ‘go get the correct change’ and then when the boy doesn’t return they claim he must have run off with it.
Be cautious and always take your time to count your money before handing it over and when getting your change.
Renting A Car In Morocco
If you’re looking to explore Morocco on your own, renting a car can be a great option. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you rent a car and hit the road:
International Driving Permit
To drive in Morocco, you will need an International Driving Permit. This can be obtained from your home country’s driving authority and must be carried with your national driver’s license while driving in Morocco.
You will also need to make sure that you have an insurance policy that covers driving in Morocco
Road Conditions
The quality of roads in Morocco can vary greatly, especially outside of major cities. Be prepared for potholes, unpaved roads, and unexpected traffic patterns.
It is important to drive cautiously and always be aware of your surroundings.
Chaotic driving
Driving in Morocco can be chaotic and stressful, especially in major cities. Be prepared for aggressive drivers, sudden lane changes, and unexpected stops.
It is important to stay alert and focused while driving.
🚗 Click here to check the prices of rental cars in Morocco
Hiring A Private Driver In Morocco
During my first trip to Morocco, I hired a driver to drive me around the country for five days. It was very affordable and a really nice way to travel because I didn’t have to stress about the logistics of public transport and I was able to see more in a short space of time.
I also had someone with local knowledge to show me around and give me inside tips (shoutout to Hassan!) this really helped to enhance my experience and make the most out of my trip.
Why hire a private driver?
Hiring a private driver in Morocco offers convenience, flexibility, and comfort. You can plan your own itinerary and stop wherever you want along the way.
Your driver will also have local knowledge and can recommend hidden gems or take you to off-the-beaten-path locations.
Plus, you can relax and enjoy the scenery without having to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with chaotic traffic.
How to hire a private driver
There are several ways to hire a private driver in Morocco. You can book through a travel agency or tour company, ask your hotel for recommendations, or search online for independent drivers.
🚗 I recommend this two-week Morocco itinerary with a private driver. It also includes accommodation and meals so all your needs are taken care of!
FAQs: Is There Uber In Morocco?
Does Uber work in Morocco?
No, there is no Uber Morocco. Uber stopped operating in Morocco in 2018.
Is there LYFT in Morocco?
No, Lyft is not available in Morocco.
Why is Uber not in Morocco?
Uber discontinued its services in Morocco due to the country’s ‘Taxi Mafia’ problem and lack of clarity about integrating ride-sharing apps into the existing transportation model. This made it difficult for Uber to operate, leading to their decision to suspend activity in the country.
Is it safe to take a taxi in Marrakech?
While Marrakech is generally a safe city, there have been reports of scams and overcharging by taxi drivers. It’s recommended to negotiate the fare before getting into a cab and to only take official taxis with meters. Alternatively, you can use one of the taxi apps mentioned above for a more reliable and transparent experience.
How do tourists get around Morocco?
Tourists in Morocco can use a combination of transportation options, such as trains, buses, taxis, and private drivers. It’s recommended to research and plan ahead before your trip to determine the best and safest way to get around based on your specific destinations.
Are taxis safe in Morocco?
Taxis are a popular and generally safe mode of transportation in Morocco. However, as with any country, it’s important to be cautious and use your best judgement when taking a taxi. Stick to official taxis and avoid getting into unmarked or unofficial cars. If possible, ask for recommendations from locals or your accommodation for reputable taxi companies.
Can US drivers drive in Morocco?
Yes, US drivers can drive in Morocco with a valid international driver’s license or by obtaining a temporary Moroccan driver’s license. However, it’s important to note that driving in Morocco may be quite different from what you’re used to in the US. The roads can be busy and chaotic, and traffic laws and customs may differ.
How do you pay for a taxi in Morocco?
It’s recommended to always have cash on hand when taking a taxi in Morocco. You can pay the driver directly with Moroccan Dirhams, or you may be able to use a credit card if the taxi has a card reader. However, not all taxis will accept credit cards, so it’s best to have cash.
Do you tip taxi drivers in Morocco?
Tipping is not mandatory in Morocco, but it’s customary to round up the fare or add a small tip of 10-20 dirhams for good service. It’s also polite to negotiate and agree on a price before starting your trip to avoid any misunderstandings. If you’re using a private driver for longer trips, it’s common to offer a larger tip.
Are taxis expensive in Marrakech?
Taxis in Marrakech can be relatively affordable compared to other major cities. However, prices may vary depending on the distance and time of day. It’s always a good idea to ask for the price before getting into a taxi and negotiate if necessary. Taking a shared taxi or grand taxi (a larger shared taxi) can also help save money.
How to get from Marrakech airport to Medina?
The most common and convenient way to get from Marrakech airport to Medina (the old city) is by taxi. It’s a short 15-minute drive. Taxis are easily accessible outside of the airport terminal, however, there is a high risk of being scammed by these taxis so I always recommend booking a private transfer in advance.
Is there Uber in Casablanca?
Unfortunately, Uber does not operate in Morocco, including Casablanca. However, there are alternative ride-hailing services available such as Careem. It’s always best to confirm the availability of these services before your trip and make sure to have cash on hand for alternative transportation options if needed.
Is there Uber in Marrakech?
Similar to Casablanca, Uber is not available in Marrakech. However, other ride-hailing services such as Careem and local taxis can be easily found around the city. As always, it’s good to have cash on hand for any alternative transportation needs.
🚗 You’ll need data to use Uber or any other taxi app. Free WIFI isn’t always available in Morocco, so I suggest using an international eSim to avoid roaming charges. This eSim can be used in 190 countries around the world!
Final Thoughts: Is There Uber In Morocco?
In conclusion, Uber does not operate in Morocco. However, there are still plenty of transportation options available such as local taxis and ride-hailing services like Careem.
It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and have cash on hand for any unexpected transportation needs.
With these tips in mind, you can easily navigate your way around the beautiful cities of Morocco without worrying about Uber.
Happy travels!
Ps. Need inspiration on where to travel next? Check out my fun travel quiz and get a free itinerary!
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Thank you for the information you shared, there is also an intresting alternative to travel in Morocco, which is ridesharing. I tried it and it was a great experience. here is the application link so you can check and have a good trip! https://pippipyalah.com/en
Thank you for the shared information! I was in Morocco and i used a ridesharing application to travel and it was just an amazing experience. Here is the link of the application so you can chech, and have a good trip! https://pippipyalah.com/en