Ramadan in Morocco 2027 is expected to begin around Monday 8 February. It should end around 8 or 9 March, with Eid al-Fitr right after. Can you still visit? Yes. Morocco stays open to travelers during the holy month. However, the rhythm of the day changes, so a little preparation helps.
Quick answer: visiting Morocco during Ramadan is easy and safe. Days feel calm, evenings come alive after sunset, and tourist restaurants stay open. In addition, the weather in February is cool, which suits the cities and the Sahara.
This guide covers the dates, what changes, and how to behave. It also covers what to eat and how a private tour fits the month. Ready to plan right away? Request a quote or see our private Morocco tours.
Ramadan in Morocco 2027: Dates and Moon Sighting
| Event | Expected date | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Ramadan begins | Monday 8 February 2027 | First day of fasting. The moon is sighted the evening before. |
| Last day of Ramadan | About 8 or 9 March 2027 | The month lasts 29 or 30 days. |
| Eid al-Fitr | About 9 to 10 March 2027 | A public holiday. Morocco’s 2027 holiday list shows 10 and 11 March. |
Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, so it moves about 11 days earlier every year. Moreover, Morocco confirms the start by moon sighting, so the exact day can shift by one. Therefore, treat these dates as expected, and confirm them when you book.
Can You Travel to Morocco During Ramadan?
Yes. Tourism continues during the holy month. Hotels, riads, and tourist restaurants stay open, and you do not need to fast. In addition, the main sights, tours, and transport keep running, sometimes on adjusted hours. Safety is the same as in the rest of the year.
What Changes During Ramadan in Morocco 2027
Quiet Days and Lively Nights
First, mornings are slow, especially outside the big cities. Many shops and cafés open later than usual. Then, after sunset, the streets fill with families, and markets stay open late. In February, sunset is around 6 pm.
Restaurants and Cafés
Local eateries often close during the day. However, in Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, and Tangier, tourist restaurants, hotel restaurants, and international chains stay open. Some restaurants close briefly around sunset. In small towns, options are fewer, so carry water and snacks.
Opening Hours and Transport
Shops, museums, and offices change their hours. Some sights may close earlier than usual. Public transport can also run on adjusted timetables. Therefore, check opening hours the day before.
The Time Change
Morocco keeps UTC+1 all year, but it moves back one hour during Ramadan. In February and March 2027, that means the same time as the UK, and one hour behind Spain. Your phone updates by itself, but check any alarms for early pickups.
Alcohol
Alcohol is harder to find during Ramadan. Some hotels that host tourists may still serve it, but many restaurants stop. Therefore, do not count on it.
How to Be a Respectful Visitor
- Eat, drink, and smoke discreetly in public. You are not required to fast. Still, discretion is kind, especially in small towns.
- Dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees, particularly in medinas and villages.
- Greet people warmly. “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem” always brings a smile.
- Accept an iftar invitation. If a family invites you, say yes. Bring dates or pastries as a gift.
- Ask before taking photos. This matters even more during prayer times.
- Be patient in the afternoon. People may be tired after a long day of fasting.
What to Eat During Ramadan in Morocco
Iftar, the meal at sunset, starts with dates and water or milk. Then comes a warm bowl of harira, the national soup. Many tourist restaurants and riads offer an iftar menu, so you can join the tradition.
- Harira: a tomato, lentil, and chickpea soup, served at sunset.
- Dates: the first bite, as the fast ends.
- Chebakia: a sesame and honey pastry, a Ramadan classic.
- Sellou: a sweet mix of toasted flour, almonds, and sesame.
- Msemen and baghrir: soft pancakes with honey or butter.
- Mint tea: it closes almost every meal.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Morocco During Ramadan
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Big sights are often less crowded | Local cafés and eateries close by day |
| Cool weather in February | Mornings are slow, and hours are shorter |
| Special food and a warm evening atmosphere | Alcohol is harder to find |
| A rare look at local traditions | Small towns have fewer food options |
| Lively nights, with markets open late | Eid al-Fitr brings crowds and closures |
Weather During Ramadan in Morocco 2027
February and early March are cool. Marrakech and Fes have mild days and chilly evenings. In the Sahara, days are sunny and nights are cold. The Atlas Mountains are cold, and snow is possible on the high peaks. In the north, including Chefchaouen and Tangier, rain is common. For a month-by-month view, read our guide to the best time to visit Morocco.
Best Places and Tours During Ramadan
- Marrakech: a calm morning, then lively evenings in the medina. See the Medina of Marrakech and our tours from Marrakech.
- Fes: quiet lanes before noon, and busy ones after iftar. Read about the Medina of Fez or browse our tours from Fes.
- Essaouira and the coast: a relaxed pace. Add our Essaouira day trip from Marrakech.
- The Atlas Mountains: green valleys and village walks. Try our Ourika Valley day trip.
- The Sahara near Merzouga: camps run as usual. Read our Merzouga desert guide.
| Days | Route | Tour |
|---|---|---|
| 3 days | Marrakech, Merzouga, and Fes | 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes |
| 3 days | Fes, Merzouga, and back to Fes | 3-day Merzouga loop from Fes |
| 4 days | Casablanca, Fes, Sahara, and Marrakech | 4-day tour from Casablanca |
| 8 days | Marrakech, desert, Fes, Chefchaouen, and Tangier | 8-day tour from Marrakech to Tangier |
| 10 days | Grand circuit from Marrakech to Tangier | 10-day tour from Marrakech to Tangier |
To compare more routes, see our Morocco itineraries guide or all our Morocco tour packages.
How a Private Tour Works During Ramadan
A private tour lets you set the pace. For example, you can start later, take a long lunch where restaurants are open, and stop at sunset. Therefore, Ramadan fits a private route well.
- Lunch: plan it in a tourist restaurant or at your riad.
- Your driver: if your driver is fasting, plan a stop at sunset so they can break the fast.
- Water and snacks: keep them in the car, especially on desert days.
- Desert camps: they serve dinner to guests as usual.
When you book, tell us you travel in Ramadan. We can then plan lunch stops and a sunset break. You can also build a route from scratch with our Morocco custom tours.
Eid al-Fitr 2027: Plan Ahead
Eid al-Fitr ends Ramadan, around 9 to 10 March 2027. Many Moroccans travel to see their families, so trains, buses, and hotels fill up. In addition, some shops and sights close for one to three days. Therefore, book early if your trip includes Eid. If you prefer a calmer time, look at late March instead, and read our guide to Easter in Morocco.
Practical Tips for Ramadan in Morocco
- Eat a good breakfast at your hotel or riad.
- Carry water and snacks, especially outside the big cities.
- Check opening hours the day before you visit a sight.
- Plan sightseeing in the morning and again in the evening.
- Pack layers for cool days, and a warm layer for the desert night.
- Book trains, buses, and hotels early around Eid.
- Carry some cash for small shops and markets.
Ramadan in Morocco 2027 FAQ
When is Ramadan in Morocco in 2027?
Ramadan is expected to begin around Monday 8 February 2027 and end around 8 or 9 March. Morocco confirms the start by moon sighting, so it can shift by one day.
Is Ramadan a good time to visit Morocco?
Yes, if you like a calm pace and warm evenings. The weather is cool, and the big sights are often quieter. However, local cafés close by day, and Eid brings crowds.
Can tourists eat and drink in public during Ramadan in Morocco?
Tourists are not required to fast. Still, it is kind to eat and drink discreetly in public, especially in small towns. Tourist restaurants and hotels serve food as usual.
Are restaurants open in Morocco during Ramadan?
Local eateries often close by day. However, tourist restaurants, hotel restaurants, and international chains stay open in the big cities. Therefore, plan lunch in advance in small towns.
Are tours and attractions open during Ramadan?
Yes. Tours and most attractions keep running, although hours can change. Check opening hours the day before.
Do the clocks change in Morocco during Ramadan?
Yes. Morocco keeps UTC+1 all year, but it moves back one hour during Ramadan. In 2027, that is the same time as the UK. It is one hour behind Spain.
Is alcohol available in Morocco during Ramadan?
It is harder to find. Some hotels that host tourists may still serve it, but many restaurants stop. Therefore, do not count on it.
Can I visit the Sahara during Ramadan?
Yes. Desert camps run as usual and serve dinner to guests. In February, days are sunny and nights are cold, so bring warm layers.
Is Morocco safe during Ramadan?
Yes. Safety is the same as in the rest of the year. Respect local customs, and you will be warmly welcomed.
How early should I book for Ramadan and Eid?
Book early if your trip includes Eid al-Fitr, because trains, buses, and hotels fill up. For the rest of Ramadan, a few weeks ahead is usually enough, but ask us for a quote early.
Plan Ramadan in Morocco 2027 with Us
Ready to plan your trip? First, tell us your dates, your group size, and your favorite places. Then, we’ll build a private route that fits Ramadan. Start with our private Morocco tours, or contact us for a clear quote. You can also read our guide to the best time to visit Morocco.
