Renting a Car in Casablanca: Cheap Car Hire Options + Morocco Driving Conditions
- Malika
- 5 أغسطس 2024
- 18 دقيقة قراءة
تاريخ التحديث: 8 يوليو
As Casablanca is Morocco’s main aviation gateway and the first port of call for many international travellers, it makes sense that it’s also one of the best places to rent a car in Morocco. While I wouldn’t recommend driving around Casablanca itself (traffic in the city can be crazy), it’s a great place to find a cheap hire car in Morocco and venture further afield.
Booking a rental car in Casablanca can be an incredibly rewarding and liberating way to explore the country at your own pace - it's definitely my favourite way to get to off-the-beaten-path destinations. While Morocco's network of trains and buses is excellent, having your own vehicle unlocks a completely new level of flexibility and freedom.
By picking up a cheap hire car at Casablanca Airport, you can avoid the metropolis altogether. Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport is located well south of the city centre - there's no need to drive through it....unless you want to! Instead of being stuck in urban traffic, you can venture off immediately to discover hidden pockets of beauty that would otherwise remain inaccessible via public transport.
That being said, I wouldn't advise booking a rental car in Casablanca without doing some research, ensuring you're ready to get behind the wheel in Morocco. There are some unique challenges to driving here and it's best to be prepared!
In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about renting a car in Casablanca, from average prices to driving conditions in Morocco and the best places to search online to find cheap car hire in Casablanca.
To learn more about visiting Casablanca, including things to do and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Casablanca.
If you're looking to craft your own Morocco travel itinerary, there's plenty of inspiration here, including a one-week itinerary from Fes to Marrakech.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
DON'T HAVE TIME TO READ THE WHOLE ARTICLE?
Here are some key takeaways:
Renting a car in Casablanca is relatively affordable, with prices starting from around 55 USD a week for a compact vehicle
In Morocco, you'll find both local and international car rental brands - neither is better or worse but local companies tend to be cheaper
Driving in Morocco means sometimes sharing the road with pedestrians, donkeys and camels - drive slowly in urban areas and don't always expect to have right-of-way
While renting a car in Casablanca is a great way to get around Morocco, I wouldn't recommend driving within the city itself
Police and gendarme checks are common but they usually wave tourists through (if you're not doing anything wrong)
Discover Cars is a great resource for finding cheap cars in Casablanca - they compare multiple companies so you can find the best deal for your travel dates
I've used Discover Cars several times recently to book cheap rental cars in Morocco and they are now my recommended choice. They have a user-friendly platform where you can compare options from both international brands and local Moroccan companies, ensuring you get the best deal. I also love that they offer FREE cancellation, which is essential because travel plans can always change!
Renting a car in Casablanca, Morocco
TABLE OF CONTENTS
How much does it cost to rent a car in Casablanca?
One area where Morocco shines in terms of affordability is car rental, so if you're wondering "how much does it cost to rent a car in Casablanca?" or "how much for car rental at Casablanca Airport?", I have good news for you. Whether you're looking to get around on a shoestring or you want to splurge on a premium vehicle, the car rental costs in Morocco are definitely reasonable.
For budget-conscious travellers looking at compact vehicles, the cost of renting a small car in Morocco can be surprisingly low, particularly if you book early. For example, I've found 7-day rentals of compact vehicles in Casablanca for as little as USD55 - that works out to less than USD10 per day!
Even if you want to upgrade to a larger, more comfortable car, the prices remain very affordable, with a new SUV rental in Casablanca coming in at under USD200 for the same 7-day period.
Remember, this is without additional (optional) insurance costs and it's rare that you will find such low prices if you're booking last-minute. Also, these are prices for pick-up and drop-off at Casablanca Airport - you'll pay more if you're renting from a downtown location or dropping off at a different location from where you picked the vehicle up.
Beyond the cheap car rental prices in Morocco, the quality of the rental cars in Casablanca is also generally good. Of course, there are always exceptions (and you never know what you'll get until you pick up the vehicle) but most are nearly new, well-maintained and suitable for navigating the country's roads.
Cheap car hire in Casablanca
Local vs international car rental companies in Casablanca
When it comes to renting a car in Casablanca, the international car rental giants like Budget, Thrifty, Europcar and Hertz have a strong presence, with branches found in both the downtown area and at Casablanca Mohammed V Airport.
Despite their global reputations, these multinational rental companies don't necessarily provide the best value or service in the Moroccan market. In fact, their rates can be significantly higher than those offered by smaller, local rental firms.
In my experience, the quality of the vehicles and overall customer experience at multinational rental companies does not always justify the higher price tag.
For the cheapest car hire in Casablanca, it’s best to go local with Moroccan rental companies like Aircar, 1Service Car and autoUnion. While perhaps less familiar (I'd never heard of them before travelling in Morocco), these local operators often provide a more budget-friendly rental experience and some of them have great online reviews.
I've hired with Aircar before and didn't have any issues, plus it was significantly cheaper than what was being offered by the big-name rental brands for the same dates.
To find the best option for you, I would recommend comparing rates and offerings across a variety of providers at Discover Cars - it lists options from both local and international car hire companies. Here, you'll find Casablanca Airport car rentals that deliver the best value for money for your particular dates.
My advice is don't be afraid to look beyond major multinationals - going local can lead to some significant savings.
Cheap car rentals in Casablanca
Tips for renting a car in Morocco
Always check the car thoroughly before driving off
When picking up a car rental at Casablanca Airport or from the downtown area, it is absolutely crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle from top to bottom before accepting it. Some rental cars come with a history of wear and tear - I'm talking pre-existing dents, scratches and other cosmetic issues that the rental company may try to unfairly charge you for upon return.
In most cases, an attendant will provide a diagram of the car and walk around it with you, noting down any existing flaws. But if there are a lot, it can be nearly impossible to accurately document them all.
Personally, I don't mind if a vehicle has lots of cosmetic scratches - I always feel more nervous driving a rental car that's in absolute pristine condition!
My advice is to take photos and videos of the car from every angle when you pick it up so you have documentary evidence if there is a dispute when you return the vehicle later.
Understand the insurance policy
When you hire a car in Casablanca, it usually comes with standard insurance - a basic coverage that protects against theft, third-party damage and liability. However, this usually comes with a substantial excess or deductible in the event of any damages or incidents. For example, you may be required to pay the first 10,000 dirhams (approximately $1000 USD) out of pocket.
For travellers who want more comprehensive protection, there's the option to purchase "refundable excess" insurance. Most car rental companies will try to sell it to you when you pick up the vehicle. This additional policy covers that hefty deductible, giving you a little peace of mind that you won’t have a huge bill to pay if an accident does occur.
Before driving away, carefully read through the insurance policy to understand what is and isn’t covered. If you don't want to run the risk of paying a substantial excess if an accident occurs, then take out additional insurance. Its cost will depend on the vehicle and length of your rental period.
Top tip: Sometimes, travel insurance policies cover the excess on rental cars and I'd always recommend you check the fine print before you turn up to get your rental car. If it's already covered, you won't feel pressure to purchase additional insurance at the rental desk, saving yourself a bit of money.
Best places to rent a car in Morocco
Have all the necessary documentation ready
When you rent a car in Casablanca, Morocco, you’ll need to have the following:
• A driver’s license from your home country (while you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Morocco, you do need a driver’s license with a photo)
• Your passport
• A credit/debit card
Although the legal driving age in Morocco is 18, most car rental companies in Casablanca will only rent to drivers who are at least 21 years old. Many also require drivers to have held their license for at least a year.
Additionally, you need to have proof of insurance to show if you are stopped at one of Morocco's numerous police/gendarme checkpoints. Basic insurance is included with all rentals at Discover Cars and this is sufficient for on-road vehicle checks. As mentioned above, you can take out additional insurance to reduce the excess payment if you do cause damage to the vehicle.
If you are stopped at a checkpoint, officers will request to see your license, registration and insurance paperwork. In some instances, they just wave tourists through, but it’s better to have these documents ready, just in case.
Understand (and follow) the local road rules
No matter which country you are driving in, it’s essential that you follow the local road rules to avoid any issues with the authorities. In Morocco, this means driving on the right-hand side of the road, a simple switch that can take some getting used to, especially for those accustomed to left-hand driving (that's me!).
When it comes to speed limits in Morocco, highways are typically capped at 120km/h, roads outside of towns and cities at 100km/h and urban areas slowing to 60km/h. That being said, always follow the signage (particularly around roadworks) and adjust your speed accordingly to avoid getting a fine.
In many parts of Morocco, you will need to drive slower than the speed limit due to the “other” traffic on the road. It’s not uncommon to have donkeys, camels and goats ambling along the road. And with a lack of pedestrian footpaths, many Moroccans walk along the tarmac in rural areas.
What all of this means is that you need to drive cautiously and don’t expect you have the right of way just because you are in a car.
If you've picked up a cheap car hire in Casablanca, there are also some distinct driving customs in Morocco to be aware of, such as the liberal use of honking. This should not be taken personally, as it is simply a way for locals to communicate their presence and request that you yield.
Double-check the contract
I've heard a couple of reports from travellers saying that when they returned their car rental at Casablanca Airport, the company tried to impose a last-minute cleaning fee of around 50 dirhams. Unless this is clearly stated in the contract, you can politely refuse.
In fact, if there are any additional fees added to your Casablanca car hire that you weren't expecting, carefully check if they are outlined in the contract before paying. This has never happened to me, but it's always good to know your rights before handing over money - trying to chase it up later on can be tricky.
Renting a car in Casablanca, Morocco
How to rent a car in Casablanca, Morocco
Read on for a step-by-step guide detailing how to rent a car in Casablanca at Discover Cars. I've used them multiple times now in destinations around the globe and have always had a hassle-free experience.
In my opinion, Discover Cars is the best place to rent a car in Morocco as they offer free cancellation and a 24/7 customer service available in multiple languages. Their online platform compares vehicles from hundreds of suppliers, so you know you're getting the best deal - they're even able to secure lower prices than you might get booking direct.
Discover Cars also has amazing reviews (their TrustPilot score is currently 4.6/5) and they've won multiple awards, including the World Travel Tech Awards - World's Best Car Rental Booking App 2024. I also love that they are really upfront when it comes to costs (there are no hidden fees) and their claims procedure is straightforward if you do end up having an accident.
Rent a car in Casablanca, Morocco
1. Search for cars online at Discover Cars
Open up the Discover Cars website and input your preferred pick-up location and travel dates. The most common rental car pickup locations in Casablanca are Casablanca Airport Mohammed V, Casablanca Downtown, Casa-Port Train Station and Casa-Voyageurs Train Station.
Remember, car hire rates at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport tend to be cheaper than at Downtown locations and you'll get the best deals if you pick-up and return your vehicle to the same place.
Cheap car hire Casablanca Airport, Morocco
2. Only rent a car in Casablanca from well-rated suppliers
When searching for cheap rental cars in Casablanca, it's wise to prioritise quality over simply finding the cheapest options available. That's why I strongly advise filtering your search results by customer ratings - this allows you to quickly identify the suppliers that consistently deliver exceptional service and value to their guests.
On the left-hand side of the Discover Cars search results, you'll find a range of filtering options, including the ability to only display properties with a rating of 8 stars or higher. This is a feature I always take advantage of, as I think it's not worth saving a bit of money to risk ending up with terrible customer service or a bad rental experience.
3. Select your preferred vehicle
From the results available, select a vehicle that meets your requirements. Check if it is manual or automatic, how many people it can accommodate and whether it's limited or unlimited mileage.
Beneath each Casablanca rental car listing on Discover Cars, there will be a "Rental Conditions" link that details the security deposit that will be held against your credit/debit card, the fuel policy and driver age requirement.
Top tip: If you only have a debit card (not a credit card), check that these are accepted by your rental supplier - not all Moroccan car rental companies do! If I'm using a debit card, I tick this filter (on the left-hand side of the Discover Cars results page) so that it only shows providers that accept them.
You'll also be able to find here exactly what the rate includes (Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection and Third Party Liability) and any optional extras. It's important that you read this carefully so you aren't left with any surprises when you pick up or drop off your Casablanca rental car.
Best rental cars in Casablanca
4. Check details and optional extras
After selecting a vehicle, you will be redirected to a page where you can check the pick-up location and the Casablanca rental car company's operating hours. Scroll down to add any optional extras, such as a baby seat or additional driver, then add the details of the main driver.
If you're picking your rental car up from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, you can also add your flight details. While some car rental companies at Casablanca Airport have counters within the arrivals terminal, others are located offsite and you will be shuttled there. This will be detailed in your booking confirmation document.
Top tip: Most car rental companies at airports will stay open to meet flights, even if they are delayed (this has happened to me). But it's always a good idea to send them an email if you know your flight is delayed and you won't be arriving at the time indicated in your original booking.
5. Input payment details
Once you've checked that everything is correct, simply input your payment details and a confirmation email will be sent. You can display this on your device when you collect the car. Or, if you're worried about not being able to access it without internet or data, you can always print it out.
In my experience, most rental car offices in Morocco have Wi-Fi that you can connect to if you need to access your digital booking.
If you need to cancel your reservation, Discover Cars makes it really easy. Just click the link in your booking confirmation email. Once I had to cancel a Morocco rental car reservation due to changes with my travel dates and Discover Cars automatically held my downpayment and applied it to the new reservation, rather than making me wait weeks for a refund.
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ
Renting a car in Morocco allows you to embark on some incredible adventures, as my personal experiences have shown. The freedom and flexibility that come with having your own rental car are hard to beat, allowing you to explore the country's incredible landscapes at your own pace.
While I can't guarantee your rental process will be as seamless as mine have been, I do hope my firsthand insights have provided you with a realistic glimpse of what to expect, so you can be better prepared to handle whatever situations may arise when renting a car in Casablanca.
Best rental cars in Casablanca
FAQs: Renting a car in Casablanca, Morocco
Is it safe to rent a car in Morocco?
When it comes to driving in Morocco, the simple answer is that it's as safe as anywhere else. As a tourist, you can expect to encounter a few police/gendarme checkpoints along the way as you navigate the local roads, particularly coming in and out of urban areas.
While this may seem daunting at first, the process is really straightforward - after a brief stop to verify your identification and purpose, you will most likely be waved through to continue on your journey.
As with anywhere, it's always wise to exercise a reasonable degree of caution, stay alert to your surroundings and follow all local traffic laws and regulations.
Is it safe to drive in Morocco?
Driving in Morocco is surprisingly straightforward, provided you avoid the bustling city centres and stick to the open roads. Cities like Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca are daunting to drive in due to their crowded streets and heavy traffic.
But the truth is, you don't actually need to drive in these areas at all. With an abundance of taxis and other public transportation options available, you can easily get around Morocco's cities without the stress of being behind the wheel.
Once you venture out onto the less congested rural and intercity highways, driving in Morocco is a real joy. Renting a car in Casablanca allows you to experience a lot of Morocco, including its magnificent landscapes and traditional villages.
Provided you slow down through rural towns and keep your eyes peeled for animals wandering onto the road, you shouldn't encounter any issues.
For more information about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here.
Cheap car hire Casablanca, Morocco
How are the roads in Morocco?
Depending on your country of origin, you may find the roads in Morocco to be of equal quality or a little sub-par. It’s true that there are stretches of road with lots of potholes and it’s not uncommon to have obstacles to navigate along the way.
The police and gendarmerie blocks add another layer of complexity, requiring you to slow down and stop when entering urban areas.
While the modern freeways and toll roads that link Morocco’s major urban centres are well-maintained, the secondary routes in the rural areas are another story. Particularly challenging are the narrow roads that wind through the Rif and Atlas mountains, where steep inclines, sharp turns and precarious drop-offs demand your concentration.
Adding to the challenges of driving in Morocco is the prevalence of pedestrians, motorbikes and animal-drawn carts that share the roads. Their unpredictable movements require you to drive with a heightened sense of awareness, particularly through built-up areas. My advice is to drive slowly and enjoy the experience!
If you're booking a rental car in Casablanca and driving around Morocco, it's important to exercise extreme caution at night when poor lighting along the roads can limit visibility. I would highly advise AGAINST driving through Morocco’s mountainous and rural areas at night.
Should you rent a car in Casablanca, Morocco?
Renting a car in Morocco is undoubtedly one of the most freeing ways of experiencing the country, allowing you to venture off the beaten tourist track and discover corners that other tourists don't. As home to the country's main international airport, Casablanca is one the best places to rent a car in Morocco, with so many flights arriving here.
In my opinion, the freedom and control that comes with having your own vehicle is well worth the small learning curve. Unlike relying on public transportation or group tours, getting a cheap hire car in Casablanca allows you to set your own pace and make spontaneous detours - basically it's like a "choose your own adventure."
Of course, for those who prefer the convenience of having a car with a driver, there are lots of private transfer companies in Morocco that offer a reliable and affordable alternative for travellers who don’t want to be behind the wheel.
Viator and GetYourGuide also have a wide range of tours available from Casablanca, led by knowledgeable guides and experienced drivers. These give you the freedom to explore beyond the urban centres, without having to worry about always having your eyes on the road.
What’s the best car rental in Casablanca?
When it comes to the best car rentals in Casablanca, Morocco, there is no single superior option. The city is home to both major international car rental companies, as well as highly-rated local ones that are worth considering.
Whichever option you choose, it's important to thoroughly research any rental company before making a booking, as quality and service can vary significantly between individual locations, even within the same brand.
One key thing to keep in mind is that many major car rental companies operate on a franchise model, meaning that the quality and standards of each individual branch may differ. In my opinion, it's crucial to read reviews specific to the particular Casablanca location you're considering, rather than relying solely on the company's overall reputation.
Platforms like Discover Cars are particularly useful in this regard, as they allow travellers to browse reviews from recent customers who have rented from that specific branch.
Additionally, the flexibility and peace of mind offered by Discover Cars' free cancellation policy can be a major draw for those whose travel plans may be subject to change. This gives you the assurance of being able to adjust your itinerary without penalty and minimises the stress and uncertainty that sometimes comes with renting a car in a foreign country.
What kind of cars are for rent in Morocco?
Some of the most popular car rental models in Morocco include the Hyundai i10, Peugeot 108, Fiat 500, Chevrolet Spark and Kia Picanto. These small hatchbacks offer adequate room for two passengers and their luggage, making them ideal for solo travellers, couples or friends. Their small size also translates to excellent fuel efficiency, which is a major perk when driving long distances across Morocco.
If you’re looking for a large rental car in Casablanca, common models include Kia Carens and Dacia Lodgy, which can accommodate six or seven passengers. Prices for these MUVs (Multi-Purpose Utility Vehicles) tend to be higher, as are the running costs.
If you're travelling in a group of four, I'd recommend opting for one of these larger vehicles - trying to fit four passengers plus their gear in a compact car will be incredibly squishy.
Are most rental cars in Morocco automatic or stick shift?
When searching for cheap rental cars in Casablanca, you'll find both automatic and manual vehicles. However, it's important to understand the cost implications of choosing an automatic transmission versus a manual or "stick shift" transmission.
In general, renting an automatic car is more expensive than a manual transmission model. This is because automatic transmissions are more complex and have higher operating costs.
So for budget-conscious travellers, the cheapest car rentals in Casablanca are usually manuals. Of course, drivers who are less experienced with operating a manual transmission may prefer the convenience of an automatic - I suggest going with whatever you are most comfortable with.
Cheap car rental Casablanca Airport, Morocco
What side of the road do they drive on in Morocco?
When driving in Morocco, you'll find that the traffic flow is the same as in the United States, Canada and much of Europe - namely, they drive on the right-hand side of the road.
If you’re used to driving on the left, it can take a while to adjust but it shouldn’t put you off renting a car in Casablanca. I’d just advise against heading into bustling urban areas as soon as you get behind the wheel. Instead, get acquainted with the change on quiet, rural roads.
Should you rent a 4x4 in Morocco?
Across much of Morocco, you’ll be fine without a 4x4 vehicle, as most of the roads connecting the cities and rural communities are paved. We’ve never hired a 4x4 and have covered a LOT of ground, without running into any issues. The majority of the roads you'll need to use as a tourist are well-paved and well-maintained, perfect for a compact rental vehicle.
But for travellers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, opting for a four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly advisable. The unpaved backroads and trails threading through the High Atlas Mountains require the added traction and clearance that a 4x4 provides and some of the roads in the Sahara Desert aren’t manageable in a small, compact vehicle.
Do police ask for bribes when driving in Morocco?
You might have read blog posts and heard cautionary tales from other travellers about the "inevitable" police and gendarme stops in Morocco that could only be resolved through the payment of bribes. Needless to say, this could fill you with anxiety and prevent you from hiring a car in Casablanca in the first place.
But with all the driving I've done in Morocco, I’ve never had a police officer ask for a bribe. Perhaps the culture around asking for bribes has changed in recent years or maybe I’ve just been lucky - I can't tell you for sure. But I get the impression that most tourists get waved through police checkpoints and the only time you may have to pay a fine is if you’re actually breaking the road rules.