Morocco, with its ancient cities, spectacular landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. Staying connected to share your adventures with friends and family is easier than you might think, even in the country's wild and remote corners. While roaming charges can be high, there are several savvy ways to access wi-fi, eSIMs, and mobile networks during your trip.
With Morocco's intense colors and vibrant bazaars, you'll have plenty of photos to share. dsaprin/Shutterstock
Will Your Phone Work in Morocco?
Your cell phone will work in most places in Morocco, but roaming can come with a hefty price tag if you don’t have a plan that includes international data. Check your provider’s add-ons - Verizon and AT&T offer travel passes for Morocco for US$12 a day, covering unlimited data, talk and text. Local SIM cards or international eSIMs, such as those provided by Saily or Airalo, can offer better value. If you stream movies, make video calls, and use navigation and translation apps, you will need around 2-3GB for a week, or 5GB upwards if you’re a heavy user.
Mobile Network Availability in Morocco
Morocco has three major network operators - Maroc Telecom, Orange Maroc, and INWI. Almost 100% of the country has 4G coverage, while 5G is being rolled out in stages, with a target of reaching 25% of the population by 2026, and 70% by the time the country hosts the 2030 FIFA World Cup jointly with Spain and Portugal. Even remote regions with challenging geography now have internet access thanks to satellite technology.
Local SIM Cards
All three of Morocco's big providers offer prepaid SIM cards that tourists can purchase. The largest operator, Maroc Telecom, wins the prize for the widest 4G coverage, narrowly beating INWI.
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Current packages include:
- INWI and Orange offer 20GB for Dh100 (US$10.29) and 40GB for Dh200 (US$20).
- Maroc Telecom offers 30GB for Dh200 (US$20) and 60GB for Dh400 (US$40.58).
Offers are data-only and valid for 30 days. Topping up costs around US$1 per GB.
How to Get a Local SIM Card
First, make sure that your cell phone is unlocked. You can buy a prepaid Moroccan SIM card when you arrive at most international airports, including Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, where direct flights from the US arrive. It’s marginally more expensive than buying a local SIM elsewhere in Morocco, but the convenience can outweigh the extra expense if you want to start using your phone straight away.
Local SIM cards are also available countrywide from mobile provider outlets and official kiosks - avoid buying from street vendors as you may not get the service you require. Wherever you buy a SIM card, you'll need to show your passport. Try to check in advance if you can pay with your credit card or debit card, or if it’s a cash-only store.
eSIM Availability and Functionality in Morocco
The most convenient way to stay connected on the road is with an eSIM, a digital SIM that can be purchased before your trip and downloaded to your phone - most recent iPhone and Android devices are compatible with eSIMs. With an eSIM, you can switch between carriers and plans and manage multiple phone numbers on one device, without the hassle of having to buy and install a physical SIM card.
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It’s ideal when you need to switch seamlessly between networks - you can still receive calls and messages on your primary number while using your eSIM for data. You’ll be able to hit the ground running as soon as you land in Morocco, without the need to search for a local SIM or eSIM after a long flight. We recommend Saily as our eSIM partner. Use code LP5 to receive 5% off your Saily mobile data plan.
Best eSIM In Morocco - How To Buy eSIM In Morocco (2024)
You won't find wi-fi on a camel safari, but you might find a connection at desert tented camps. Yongyut Kumsri/Shutterstock
Finding Reliable Wi-Fi in Morocco
Wi-fi availability varies in Morocco, with good connections in urban areas but less reliable connectivity in desert areas and the mountains. Here's an overview:
- All airports, including Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMS) and Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), offer free and reliable wi-fi.
- Wi-fi is available at all resorts, hotels and hostels, except accommodations in very remote areas. Even then, wi-fi may be provided in common areas, such as the reception or restaurant.
- You can even find wi-fi in some secluded tented camps in the Sahara desert.
- Most eateries have free wi-fi too; in some places, you might have to ask for the password.
Always be cautious about using public or shared wi-fi.
The 5G network rollout should see mobile internet speeds improve dramatically. In Morocco, average mobile download speeds are around 60 megabits per second (Mbps), rising to around 70 in large urban areas, sufficient for browsing, streaming and video calls. To manage your expectations, speeds in New York or Los Angeles are around 150-200 Mbps.
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Note that connectivity varies widely between urban and rural areas. While coverage is surprisingly good in remote areas, the availability of wi-fi decreases the further you get from major cities, so be sure to download playlists and - more importantly - offline maps and dictionaries for translation apps before setting out on any long-distance drives in case you lose access.
When traveling to more remote areas, it's a good idea to download offline maps for your navigation apps. Lukas Hodon/Shutterstock
Internet Restrictions and Censorship
Morocco is generally free from censorship and internet restrictions, and you should have no issues connecting to travel-related resources that you might use to navigate around the country. There are no restrictions regarding VPN use.
Staying Connected at Tourist Sites
Staying connected as you explore major cities and towns - such as Marrakesh, Fez, Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, and Essaouira - is easy. You can even find a signal along the skinny alleyways of many of Morocco's medieval medinas.
Connectivity options are more limited in isolated spots, such as the Sahara desert or remote villages in the Atlas Mountains. All hotels and guesthouses will have wi-fi, but it might not be very speedy or reliable. In desert camps, wi-fi may be available but often only in public areas and connections can be spotty. Orange tends to work better around the Sahara region, but ask your accommodations for a recommendation before you travel.
Language Barriers
It's possible that you will encounter language barriers when using a Moroccan provider. However, you are more likely to find English speakers at phone desks and offices in tourist-centric spots such as international airports or tourist hotspots such as Marrakesh. The fastest connections in the country are generally found in Marrakesh.
The fastest connections in the country are generally found in Marrakesh. Glen Berlin/Shutterstock
Cost of Staying Connected
Maroc Telecom’s eSIM packages include Essential, which offers 15GB of data and Dh20 (US$2.05) credit for national and international calls for Dh120 (US$12.30), with data valid for one month. International eSIM packages from Saily start from US$6.64 for 1GB, valid for seven days. Wi-fi is almost always free at airports, hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants.
Local Tech Customs
Morocco’s electricity operates on 220V and 50Hz, with Type C and Type E power outlets. However, local people don’t always use headphones, and many people make calls and watch videos on loudspeaker, even on public transport. 150 is the number for fire and ambulance (15 from a landline).
Alternative Internet Access with Portable Routers
For travelers seeking a more flexible and secure internet connection, portable Wi-Fi routers offer a compelling alternative. Services like MIOWIFI provide a pocket-sized router that allows you to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously. These devices offer several advantages:
- Unlimited Data: Enjoy maximum navigation speed without data limits.
- Cost Savings: Share the Wi-Fi connection with family or friends, reducing individual data costs.
- Ease of Use: Simple setup, similar to connecting to a home network.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 12 hours of continuous use with a 5000mAh USB charging battery.
- Global Connectivity: Use in over 150 countries at a consistent daily rate.
- No Roaming Fees: High-speed connection without the surprises of roaming charges.
MIOWIFI offers two options:
- Rent: Ideal for tourist trips, providing a cost-effective solution for short-term stays.
- Buy & Activate: Best for frequent travelers, offering savings for each day of use through a MIOWIFI.com account.
These portable routers eliminate the need for local SIM cards and provide a secure, reliable connection wherever you go. If you are planning a trip to Morocco, it is recommended that you contract MIOWIFI before you fly and set up the delivery at the hotel where you are staying.
Satellite Internet in Rural Areas
In more rural areas like Morocco, Indiana, satellite internet providers such as Viasat and HughesNet offer extensive coverage. Viasat provides download speeds up to 150 Mbps, ideal for streaming and video conferencing, with plans starting at $119.99 per month. HughesNet offers a more budget-friendly option with speeds up to 100 Mbps starting at $49.99 per month. While AT&T Internet also operates in the area, its coverage is limited to about 20% of the town.
| Provider | Technology | Coverage | Max Download Speed | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viasat | Satellite | 100% | 150 Mbps | $119.99/month |
| HughesNet | Satellite | 100% | 100 Mbps | $49.99/month |
| AT&T Internet | IPBB, 5G | 20% | 25 Mbps | $60/month |
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