Quick answer: Travelling in Morocco during Ramadan is possible and often rewarding. Tourist sites, hotels and tours operate normally, but many local cafés close during the day, cities slow down in the afternoon and come alive after sunset (iftar). Eat and drink discreetly in public during daylight and enjoy the festive evenings.
Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, moves about 11 days earlier each year. In 2027 it is expected to start around early February (exact dates depend on the moon sighting). Should you avoid it? Not at all – here is what to expect when visiting Morocco during Ramadan.
What changes during Ramadan
- Muslims fast from dawn to sunset: no food, drink or smoking.
- Many local cafés and snack bars close during the day; restaurants in tourist areas and hotels stay open.
- Working hours are shorter; some shops open later.
- Just before sunset, streets empty as families gather for iftar; after dinner, cities come alive until late.
What stays the same for travellers
Monuments, museums, riads, hotels, transfers and tours run as usual. Our private tours, like the 7-day Morocco tour or the 3-day desert tour, operate normally with drivers who adapt meal stops. Alcohol is sold in fewer places; some bars close for the month.
Etiquette
- Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in the street during the day – do it in restaurants or your hotel.
- Dress modestly (what to wear).
- Be patient: people may be tired in the late afternoon.
- Accept invitations to share iftar if offered – a beautiful experience.
The magic of Ramadan evenings
At sunset, the call to prayer signals the breaking of the fast with dates, milk and harira soup, followed by chebakia sweets. Then medinas fill with families, shops reopen and squares like Jemaa el-Fna are especially lively.
Eid al-Fitr
The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al-Fitr, a public holiday of one or two days. Many businesses close and transport is busy as families travel – book in advance.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fewer tourists, festive nights, cultural insight | Fewer daytime cafés, shorter hours, busy Eid transport |
See also best time to visit Morocco and Morocco travel tips.
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Frequently asked questions
Can tourists eat during Ramadan in Morocco?
Yes. Tourists are not expected to fast. Hotels and many restaurants serve food during the day; just avoid eating or drinking openly in the street.
Are tourist attractions open during Ramadan?
Yes, monuments, museums and tours operate normally, sometimes with slightly reduced hours.
When is Ramadan in 2027?
It is expected to begin around early February 2027 and last about 30 days; exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon.
Is it a good idea to visit Morocco during Ramadan?
It can be a great time: fewer tourists and festive evenings. Just plan for quieter afternoons and fewer daytime cafés.
Written by the Todo Marruecos Tours travel team, local tour operators based in Morocco. Last updated: September 2026.