Looking for the best SIM card in Morocco? Mobile data is cheap here, and a local SIM keeps you connected for maps, messages and photos. However, the three networks are not equal everywhere, especially on the road to the desert. This guide compares the main operators and explains where to buy a SIM. It also covers what you need to bring and how to top up.
The Three Mobile Networks in Morocco
Morocco has three mobile operators: Maroc Telecom, inwi and Orange. All three sell prepaid SIM cards to tourists. In addition, all three offer 4G in towns and along the main roads, and 5G is arriving in the big cities. For background, see telecommunications in Morocco.
Maroc Telecom
Maroc Telecom is the oldest operator and has one of the widest networks. For this reason, many travelers choose it for road trips into the mountains and the south.
inwi
inwi also has strong coverage across the country, including many rural areas. Its data packs are generous, so it is a popular choice for long trips.
Orange
Orange works well in cities, tourist areas and along the main routes. However, its signal can be weaker in remote valleys and small villages.
Which Is the Best SIM Card in Morocco?
The best SIM card in Morocco depends on your route. If you stay in Marrakech, Fes or Casablanca, all three networks work well. On the other hand, if you travel through the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara, Maroc Telecom or inwi usually give the best coverage.
Even with the best SIM card in Morocco, signal can drop in deep gorges, high passes and between the dunes. So download offline maps before you leave the city. On our desert tours from Marrakech, your driver-guide knows the road, so you never depend on your phone to find the way.
Where to Buy the Best SIM Card in Morocco
The easiest place is the airport. At Marrakech, Casablanca and Rabat airports, the three operators have shops in the arrivals area. In Marrakech, the shops are in the baggage hall, before customs. So buy your SIM there, because you cannot go back once you pass customs.
You can also buy a SIM in official operator shops in every city. Avoid street sellers, because the plans are unclear. If you land late, ask us to help when we pick you up. Our guide to airport transfers in Morocco explains the arrival steps.
What You Need to Buy a SIM Card
Before you go to the counter, check this short list.
- Your passport, for registration.
- An unlocked phone. Otherwise, a local SIM will not work in it.
- Some cash in dirhams, although many airport shops also take cards.
- A few minutes of patience while the shop activates your plan.
For more on money, read our guide to cash in Morocco.
Prices and Data Packs
Prepaid data is cheap in Morocco. For example, starter packs with around 30 to 50 GB often cost between 100 and 200 dirhams, depending on the operator and the offer. However, prices and packs change often. Therefore, check the current offers at the counter before you choose.
Most packs also include some local calls. In addition, WhatsApp calls work well on 4G, which is how most Moroccans call each other.
How to Top Up Your SIM
Topping up the best SIM card in Morocco for your trip is easy. First, buy a recharge card at any corner shop that shows the operator’s logo. Then follow the instructions on the card, or ask the shop owner to help you. After that, you can activate a new data pass from your phone.
Is an eSIM a Good Alternative?
Yes, if your phone supports it. For some travelers, an eSIM is even the best SIM card in Morocco. An international eSIM can be installed before you fly, so you have data the moment you land. In addition, the local operators sell eSIMs at some airport shops. However, a local SIM is often cheaper for long trips with a lot of data.
Staying Connected in the Sahara
In the dunes near Merzouga, signal depends on where your camp is. Some camps have good 4G, while others have only a weak signal. In fact, a night without notifications is part of the magic. Read about a night in a Sahara desert camp and stargazing in Merzouga to see what we mean.
Best SIM Card in Morocco: Our Quick Advice
- For cities only, any of the three networks is fine.
- For the Atlas and the Sahara, choose Maroc Telecom or inwi.
- Buy at the airport, before customs, with your passport.
- Download offline maps before long drives.
Planning the rest of your trip? Read 7 days in Morocco, tipping in Morocco and our guide to Moroccan etiquette.
Travel Morocco with Us
Send us a message on WhatsApp at +212 609 490 681 or use the contact page. Tell us your dates and your route. After that, we will send you a plan and a price. Popular trips include the 3-day Marrakech to the Sahara tour and our day trips from Marrakech.
Questions before your trip? Message us.
Message us on WhatsAppBest SIM Card in Morocco: FAQ
What is the best SIM card in Morocco for tourists?
For cities, any network works. For the mountains and the desert, Maroc Telecom or inwi usually have the best coverage.
Can I buy a SIM card at Marrakech airport?
Yes. The three operators have shops in the baggage hall, before customs.
Do I need a passport to buy a SIM card in Morocco?
Yes. Every SIM must be registered with an ID.
Does my phone need to be unlocked?
Yes. A locked phone will not accept a local SIM card.
Is there signal in the Sahara desert?
Often, yes, near Merzouga. However, signal depends on the camp location and can be weak deep in the dunes.
Navigate Morocco is a team from the Sahara desert who work as a family, as our ancestors did. We will be glad to help you plan your trip.
More Navigate Morocco guides: what to buy in Marrakech, activities in Marrakech, things to do in Agafay Desert, the best time to visit Morocco, Morocco visa for Americans, flights to Morocco from the USA.
