Planning a trip to Morocco from New Zealand? It is a long way, but few trips feel more different: Sahara dunes, old medinas, snowy Atlas peaks and the blue streets of Chefchaouen. This guide covers what Kiwi travelers need to know: entry rules, flights, the best season, money, adventure and the best route. Our family team is from Merzouga and based in Marrakech. We wrote this to help you plan a trip to Morocco from New Zealand without surprises.
Do New Zealanders need a visa for Morocco?
No, for a normal holiday. According to Wikipedia, New Zealand passport holders can visit Morocco without a visa for up to 3 months. Entry rules can change, so check the latest advice before you book.
The New Zealand Government’s SafeTravel gives an overall advice level for Morocco, with higher levels in some areas. Read it before you travel and register your trip there. Our guide to travel safety for solo women in Morocco gives a local point of view.
Flights to Morocco from New Zealand
There are no nonstop flights from New Zealand to Morocco. Every trip to Morocco from New Zealand connects through at least one hub, such as Doha or Dubai. Expect a full day of travel or more. Some travelers break the journey with a stopover, or combine Morocco with a trip to Europe.
Casablanca is the main international airport, and Marrakech also receives many flights from Europe. Read our guide to airport transfers in Morocco.
Best time to visit Morocco from New Zealand
The seasons are reversed. Your summer is the Moroccan winter, and your winter is the Moroccan summer. Here is how the New Zealand holidays line up:
- December and January: Moroccan winter. Days in Marrakech are often mild and sunny, but nights in the Sahara and the Atlas are cold. Pack warm layers.
- March to May: Spring in Morocco, including the April school holidays. One of the best times to visit.
- June and July: Moroccan summer. The Sahara and Marrakech get very hot, so plan outdoor time for early mornings and evenings.
- September and October: Autumn in Morocco. Warm days and cooler nights make this an excellent time for the desert.
See our full guide to the best time to visit Morocco and what to expect in Morocco in winter.
Money, time, plugs and driving
A few practical differences will make your trip to Morocco from New Zealand easier:
- Money: The currency is the Moroccan dirham. Euros and US dollars are the easiest to exchange, and ATMs are common in the cities. Keep cash for the souks and small villages. Read our guide to tipping in Morocco.
- Time: Morocco is 11 to 12 hours behind Auckland, depending on daylight saving. During Ramadan, Morocco moves its clocks back one more hour.
- Plugs: Morocco uses European two pin sockets, types C and E. Bring an adapter for New Zealand plugs.
- Driving: Morocco drives on the right. Check whether you need an International Driving Permit before you leave, and read how to rent a 4×4 in Morocco.
- Water: Most travelers drink bottled water. See is tap water safe in Morocco.
Language and culture
Moroccans speak Darija and Amazigh at home, and French is common in the cities. English is spoken in hotels and by people working in tourism. Morocco is a Muslim country, so dress modestly in villages. Read what language is spoken in Morocco and our guide to Moroccan etiquette.
Where to go on a trip to Morocco from New Zealand
A classic first trip combines cities, mountains and desert. Many guests start in Marrakech, cross the High Atlas, visit Ait Ben Haddou, spend a night in the Sahara at Merzouga and finish in Fes. With two weeks, add Chefchaouen, the Atlantic coast or the imperial cities of Morocco. Travelers from across the Tasman can also read our guide to Morocco from Australia.
Not sure how long to stay? Read how many days you need in Morocco.
The Sahara: adventure on a trip to Morocco from New Zealand
Kiwis love the outdoors, and the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are a playground. Ride a camel at sunset, then try quad biking in Merzouga or sandboarding on the dunes. At night, share dinner at camp under a sky full of stars. Read about a night in a Sahara desert camp.
Our 4 day Marrakech Sahara desert tour is a good start, and our guide to choosing a 3 or 4 day desert tour explains the difference.
Why book a private tour of Morocco from New Zealand?
After a full day of flying, it helps to have everything arranged. On a private tour, your driver meets you at the airport and handles the roads, so you do not need to drive on the right. We are a family team from Merzouga, so the desert part of your trip is run by our own people. Read how booking works or see our 7 day imperial cities and Sahara tour.
FAQ: Morocco from New Zealand
Do New Zealanders need a visa for Morocco?
No, according to Wikipedia, New Zealand passport holders can stay up to 3 months without a visa. Check the latest rules before you travel.
Is there a direct flight to Morocco from New Zealand?
No. Flights from Auckland connect through a hub such as Doha or Dubai, and the journey takes a full day or more.
What is the time difference between New Zealand and Morocco?
Morocco is 11 to 12 hours behind Auckland, depending on daylight saving, with one more hour during Ramadan.
Do I need a plug adapter for Morocco from New Zealand?
Yes. Morocco uses European two pin sockets, so bring an adapter for New Zealand plugs.
When is the best time to visit Morocco from New Zealand?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. The April and the September to October school holidays are good times to go.
Planning a trip to Morocco from New Zealand? Tell us your dates and we will plan your route.
Message us on WhatsApp