Renting a Car in Agadir: Cheap Car Hire Options + Morocco Driving Conditions
- Malika
- Oct 26, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Jun 5
Agadir is not only a lively beach resort but an important aviation hub, making it the ideal place to rent a car in southern Morocco. It can easily be used as a gateway for discovering the surf beaches around Taghazout and Mirleft, as well as venturing inland to Taroudant and the Sahara Desert.
I find Agadir relatively easy to navigate (compared to Marrakech and Casablanca at least), making it an excellent place for getting behind the wheel for the first time in Morocco. The coastline surrounding the city is spectacular (both north and south), with so many hidden coves to discover. Plus, there are some amazing desert landscapes and bird-filled reserves nearby (I'm particularly thinking about Souss Massa).
Exploring Morocco by rental car is an amazing way to experience the country at your own pace. While the trains and buses are reliable, having your own vehicle opens up a whole world of possibilities. By renting a car in Agadir, you can create your own travel itinerary, giving you the opportunity to linger in spots that genuinely fascinate you and discover those secret treasures that public transport simply can't take you to.
While renting a car in Agadir can be really enjoyable (as I've experienced myself), it’s essential to do your research to ensure a hassle-free experience. This means familiarising yourself with the rental process and understanding what it's like to get behind the wheel in Morocco.
In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about renting a car in Agadir, from average prices to driving conditions in Morocco and the best places to search online to find cheap car hire in Agadir.
To learn more about visiting Agadir, including things to do and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Agadir.
If you're looking to craft your own Morocco travel itinerary, there's plenty of inspiration here, including a week-long adventure between Agadir and Marrakech.
Cheap car rentals in Agadir
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 Agadir is relatively cheap, starting from around 125 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
Police and gendarme checks are common in Morocco but they usually wave tourists through (if you're not doing anything wrong)
Discover Cars is a great resource for finding cheap cars in Agadir - they compare multiple companies so you can find the best deal for your travel dates
Whenever I'm looking to rent a car in Morocco, Discover Cars is my go-to choice - I genuinely think this online platform is the best place to rent a car in Morocco. Discover Cars has a user-friendly platform that lets you compare choices from both global brands and local Moroccan companies, helping you secure the best deal. Additionally, they provide FREE cancellation, which is a wonderful benefit since travel plans can change at a moment's notice!
Best car rentals in Agadir
TABLE OF CONTENTS
How much does it cost to rent a car in Morocco?
You'll be happy to know that Morocco is a great choice if you’re looking for budget-friendly car rentals, as the prices here are relatively low compared to many other places. For example, you can rent a compact car in Agadir for only USD125 for a week, which comes out to just USD17.85 per day.
If you're thinking about upgrading to a larger, more comfortable vehicle, you'll be happy to hear that the prices remain quite reasonable. For example, you can rent a new SUV in Agadir for under USD350 for a week, which may come as a surprise to those who are accustomed to the steep car rental prices seen in many European countries.
Additionally, the rental cars in Morocco are generally of good quality and perfect for navigating the country’s diverse landscapes. Many of the vehicles are either relatively new or well-maintained, even if they have a few imperfections (bumps and scratches) on their exterior.
Best car rentals in Agadir
Local vs international car rental companies in Agadir
When searching for cheap hire cars in Agadir, you'll notice that popular international brands such as Budget, Thrifty, Europcar and Hertz are readily available. Most have offices in both the city centre and at Agadir Al Massira International Airport if you want to pick up a vehicle as soon as you fly in.
Even though these companies are well-known globally, they don’t necessarily offer the best rates or service in Morocco. In fact, their prices are often significantly higher than those of local rental companies and, in my experience, the quality of their vehicles and customer support may not always justify the extra expense.
If you're on the hunt for the cheapest car rentals in Agadir, think about opting for local companies such as Aircar, 1Service Car and autoUnion. While these might not be familiar names to international visitors, these local firms often provide better rates and have many receive positive feedback from former renters online.
The great thing about Discover Cars is that you can easily compare prices and options from both local and international rental car providers, allowing you to find the best deals. I would highly recommend exploring beyond the typical big-name companies—venturing into Morocco's diverse car rental market could lead to significant savings.
Cheap rental cars in Agadir
Tips for renting a car in Morocco
Check the car thoroughly before driving off
Before you drive away in an Agadir rental car, it's essential to thoroughly inspect it from top to bottom. Almost all rental vehicles in Morocco will exhibit some signs of wear and tear, such as dents, scratches and other imperfections that won’t affect their drivability. That being said, there is a chance the rental company will try to charge you for these damages, if they aren't documented first.
Normally, the attendant will provide you with a diagram of the car and assist you in the inspection, noting down any imperfections. But if there are a lot, it can be tough to document everything accurately. I suggest taking photos and videos of the car from various angles when you pick it up, as this will provide you with proof in case any disputes arise when you return the vehicle.
Understand the insurance policy
Car rentals in Agadir usually comes with basic insurance, which generally includes protection against theft, third-party damage and liability. But keep in mind that there can be a substantial excess or deductible if any damage happens - you might be responsible for the first 10,000 dirhams (approximately 1000USD) in case of an incident.
If you're looking for greater peace of mind, I'd suggest purchasing "refundable excess" insurance. Most Agadir rental car companies will try and sell this to you when you pick up the vehicle. This additional coverage helps cover that hefty deductible, ensuring you won’t be hit with a large bill if an accident occurs.
When renting a car in Agadir through Discover Cars, you'll find that Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection are usually included in the standard rental agreement. That being said, always check the rental conditions before making a booking so you understand what is and isn't covered.
Sometimes, travel insurance policies cover the excess on rental cars - check to see if this is included on yours so you don't end up paying more than you need to.
Best places to rent a car in Morocco
Have all the necessary documentation ready
When you rent a car in Agadir, 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 card
In Morocco, the minimum age to drive is 18, but many car rental companies in Agadir prefer to rent to individuals who are at least 21 years old. Some also require that drivers have held their licenses for at least a year.
You'll also need to provide proof of insurance, which can be arranged through Discover Cars or directly with the rental agency. While travelling in Morocco, you may come across police and gendarme checkpoints where officers might request to see your license, registration and insurance papers. Sometimes, they may just wave tourists through, but it's always best to have this documentation at the ready.
Understand (and follow) the local road rules
No matter where you are driving around the world, it's essential to follow the local traffic laws to avoid any issues with the authorities. In Morocco, this means driving on the right-hand side of the road, which may take some getting used to for those accustomed to the left.
Speed limits in Morocco are typically 120 km/h on highways, 100 km/h on roads outside of cities and 60 km/h within urban areas. Roadworks are common throughout Morocco and speed limits change rapidly on approach. Always keep an eye on road signs and adjust your speed accordingly to avoid fines.
In many parts of Morocco, I'd suggest driving slower than the posted limits due to the "unique" traffic conditions. You might encounter donkeys, camels and goats casually crossing the roads, especially in rural areas and particularly on market days. With limited pedestrian paths, many locals also walk on the road itself - never assume that being in a vehicle gives you the right of way! By slowing down, you'll not only avoid collisions but get to enjoy all the traditional comings and goings.
Double-check the contract
I’ve heard stories of travellers returning their rental car in Morocco, only to have the attendant try to impose a last-minute cleaning fee of around 50 dirhams. If this charge isn't clearly stated in your contract, you can politely refuse. Always check your contract for any surprise fees that may suddenly appear before agreeing to any payments.
Best car rentals in Agadir
How to rent a car in Agadir, Morocco
Read on for a step-by-step guide detailing how to rent a car in Agadir at Discover Cars.
After several completely hassle-free experiences, I genuinely think Discover Cars is the best place to rent a car in Morocco. Not only do they offer free cancellation and have customer support available 24/7 (in multiple languages) but they are really transparent with their pricing. With Discover Cars, you can compare options from various suppliers, ensuring you get a fantastic deal—often at lower prices than booking directly.
For added peace of mind, Discover Cars has received excellent reviews online, boasting a TrustPilot score of 4.6 out of 5. They've also won several awards, including the World Travel Tech Awards for the Best Car Rental Booking App in 2023. Added to that, there are no hidden fees and their claims process is straightforward and user-friendly in the event of an accident.
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 Agadir are Agadir Al Massira International Airport (AGA) and Agadir Downtown.
Cheap rental cars in Agadir
2. Only rent a car in Agadir from well-rated suppliers
When searching for affordable rental cars in Agadir, I would suggest prioritising quality over the lowest prices. It's a good idea to sort your search results by customer ratings, as this will help you identify providers that consistently deliver excellent service and value.
On the left-hand side of the Discover Cars search results, you'll find several filtering options. One of these lets you display only listings with a rating of 8 stars or higher. I always take advantage of this feature because I believe it's not worth saving a bit of money if it leads to subpar customer service or a stressful 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 Agadir 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. If you only have a debit card (not a credit card), check that these are accepted - not all Moroccan rental companies do!
You'll also be able to find here exactly what the rate includes (including 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 Agadir rental car.
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 Agadir 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 Agadir Al Massira International Airport, you can also add your flight details. Most Agadir car hire companies have counters within the arrivals hall - their exact location will be detailed in your booking confirmation.
5. Input payment details
Once you've checked that everything is correct, simply input your payment details and a confirmation email will be sent to you! Either keep this handy to show on your device when you pick up the car or, if you're concerned about not being able to access it, you can always print it out.
If you need to cancel your reservation, Discover Cars makes it super simple. Just click the link in your booking confirmation email. I've cancelled a Discover Cars reservation before when I'd booked the wrong dates and it was really straightforward. They even held my down payment and applied it to the new reservation, rather than me having to wait weeks for a refund.
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ
Exploring Morocco by rental car can lead to incredible adventures, as I've learned from my own experiences. Having the freedom and ease of a rental vehicle really allows you to take in the country’s spectacular landscapes at your own pace. While I can't guarantee that your rental experience will be flawless like mine has been, I hope my insights provide you with a good understanding of what to expect and ensure you’re prepared to handle any challenges that may arise while renting a car in Agadir.
How to rent a car in Agadir
FAQs: Renting a car in Agadir, Morocco
Is it safe to rent a car in Morocco?
Driving in Morocco is as safe as in many other destinations around the globe and the rental car industry is well regulated. Like anywhere else, it's essential to exercise caution on the roads in Morocco, follow local traffic laws and select a rental vehicle that suits your needs.
While travelling around the country, you may encounter police and gendarme checkpoints, particularly when entering or exiting cities. While this might seem a bit daunting at first, the presence of officers is designed to ensure everyone's safety. After a brief stop to verify your ID and travel purpose, you’ll likely be on your way to continue your journey.
Is it safe to drive in Morocco?
While driving in Morocco's bustling city centres can be challenging, once you get outside of the urban areas, it's relatively easy. Cities like Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca can feel overwhelming with their crowded medinas, but there's no need to navigate those areas by car. With numerous taxis and public transport options available, you can easily explore the cities without the stress of driving.
Once you venture onto the quieter rural and intercity roads, you'll discover that driving in Morocco is a safe and enjoyable experience. It allows you to experience the country at its most traditional and immerse yourself in some incredible landscapes along the way.
For more information about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here.
Cheap rental cars in Agadir
How are the roads in Morocco?
The condition of roads in Morocco can differ significantly depending on where you are driving. Some parts of the country may have roads that meet your expectations, while others might be a bit more challenging.
In rural areas, it’s common to encounter potholed roads, not to mention livestock ambling along or across the roads. You'll also need to be aware of police and gendarmerie checkpoints, which will require you to slow down and stop as you approach populated areas.
The main highways and toll roads linking Morocco's major cities are generally in excellent condition, but the secondary roads in rural areas can be quite different. The narrow routes through the Rif and Atlas mountains can be particularly demanding, with steep inclines, sharp turns and significant drop-offs that require heightened awareness.
If you're renting a car in Agadir to explore Morocco, it's essential to exercise caution at night due to poor lighting on many roads. I highly recommend steering clear of nighttime driving in the mountainous and rural areas of Morocco.
Should you rent a car in Agadir, Morocco?
Renting a car in Morocco is undoubtedly one of the best ways to see the country and starting your journey in Agadir is ideal if you want to explore the south. The freedom and flexibility that come with having your own vehicle far outweigh any small hurdles you might encounter initially.
Rather than relying on public transportation or guided tours, a rental car allows you to travel at your own pace, make spontaneous detours and uncover hidden treasures that many tourists miss. Finding a cheap car hire in Agadir is a great way to explore the surf breaks around Taghazout and the beaches of Mirleft, as well as aptly-named Paradise Valley.
If you prefer the convenience of having a driver, there are plenty of private transfer services in Morocco that offer a reliable option for those who don’t want to drive. Viator and GetYourGuide also have a wide range of tours available from Agadir, led by knowledgeable guides and experienced drivers. This way, you can enjoy the sights at your leisure, without the worry of being behind the wheel.
What is the best car rental in Agadir?
Renting a car in Agadir, Morocco isn't a one-size-fits-all experience. The city has a variety of well-known international car rental agencies and trusted local businesses that you might want to consider. Regardless of your choice, it's essential to research the rental company—whether it's a local or global name—before you confirm your booking, as the quality of service can vary significantly from one location to another, even if they share the same brand.
Keep in mind that many popular Moroccan car rental companies operate on a franchise model, which can result in differences in service and quality across various locations. I'd recommend looking up reviews for the specific Agadir rental car branch you're considering, rather than relying solely on the overall reputation of the company. Platforms like Discover Cars are excellent for this, offering feedback from recent customers who have rented from that particular site.
Additionally, the peace of mind offered by Discover Cars' free cancellation policy can be a major draw for travellers whose plans may change. This policy allows renters to adjust their bookings without incurring any fees, helping to alleviate the stress and uncertainty that often come with car rental arrangements.
What kind of cars are for rent in Morocco?
In Morocco, some of the best cars to rent include the Hyundai i10, Peugeot 108, Fiat 500, Chevrolet Spark and Kia Picanto. These compact hatchbacks offer ample space for passengers and luggage, making them ideal for solo travellers, couples or small groups. Their small size also means they are fuel-efficient, which will appeal to budget-conscious travellers looking to explore the country over long distances.
If you're seeking a more spacious rental car in Agadir, consider the Kia Carens or Dacia Lodgy, both of which accommodate 6 or 7 passengers. Just be aware that the rental costs for these Multi-Purpose Utility Vehicles (MUVs) tend to be higher, as are their running costs.
Best rental car company in Morocco
Are most rental cars in Morocco automatic or stick shift?
When searching for cheap rental cars in Agadir, you can choose between automatic and manual vehicles. That being said, it’s important to consider the cost differences between these two options. Generally speaking, renting an automatic car is more expensive than a manual or "stick shift" vehicle. This is due to the complexity of automatic transmissions, which also incur higher maintenance costs.
If you're looking for the cheapest rental cars in Agadir, a manual vehicle is often the most affordable choice. But if you aren't comfortable with manual transmissions, go with an automatic, even if it costs a little more.
What side of the road do they drive on in Morocco?
Driving in Morocco is on the right-hand side of the road, the same as in the United States, Canada and many European countries. If you're used to driving on the left, it might take a little while to adjust, but don't let that stop you from renting a car in Agadir. My only advice would be to steer clear of crowded city spots at first; instead, consider practicing on quieter, rural roads to build your confidence.
Should you rent a 4x4 in Morocco?
In many regions of Morocco, a 4x4 vehicle isn't necessary since most roads connecting cities and rural areas are paved. We've explored extensively without ever needing to rent a 4x4 and we've encountered no issues. The roads frequented by tourists are typically well-maintained and in good condition, making them perfect for a compact rental car.
However, if you're planning a more adventurous travel experience in Morocco, opting for a four-wheel-drive vehicle is wise. Some of the unpaved paths and trails in the High Atlas Mountains require the additional traction and ground clearance that a 4x4 provides, and many routes in the Sahara Desert aren't suitable for smaller, compact cars.
Do police ask for bribes when driving in Morocco?
You might have seen blog posts or heard from other travellers about the "inevitable" police stops in Morocco, with some claiming that the only way to resolve these encounters is by paying bribes. It’s completely normal to feel uneasy about this and to reconsider renting a car in Agadir to avoid encountering such situations.
Throughout all my experiences driving in Morocco, I’ve never faced a police officer asking for a bribe. My husband thinks this might be because I look like a tourist, rather than a local. I think most police and gendarmes see tourists as "off limits" for such requests and the bribery culture on Moroccan roads is changing.
From the conversations I’ve had, most tourists pass through police checkpoints without any issues. The only time you might actually need to pay a fine is if you’re actually breaking local traffic laws.
