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Pet Travel Guide 2026
Traveling to Morocco with Pets
Import requirements, pet-friendly hotels, airline policies, and everything you need to bring your dog or cat to Morocco safely.
Can You Bring Your Pet to Morocco?
Yes. Morocco allows the import of dogs, cats, and certain other domestic animals, provided you complete the required paperwork. The process involves a microchip, a rabies vaccination given within specific timeframes, a government-endorsed health certificate, and clearance from ONSSA (Morocco's food safety and animal health authority).
The biggest hurdles are timing and documentation. Start the process at least 6 weeks before your trip. Missing a single document can result in your pet being denied entry or held at the airport until the issue is resolved. This guide walks you through each step, covers airline rules, lists pet-friendly hotels, and addresses the cultural realities of traveling with a pet in a country where attitudes toward animals differ from Western norms.
Important: Import regulations can change. Verify current requirements with ONSSA (onssa.gov.ma) and your country's veterinary export authority before booking flights. This guide reflects rules as of March 2026.
Pet Import Requirements: Step-by-Step
Follow these six steps in order. Skipping or reordering them can invalidate your paperwork and delay entry.
Step 1Before vaccination
ISO Microchip
Your pet must be implanted with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. The chip must be readable by a universal scanner. If your country uses a different microchip standard (common in the US with 10-digit AVID chips), bring your own scanner or have a 15-digit chip implanted alongside it.
Step 230 days to 12 months before travel
Rabies Vaccination
Administer the rabies vaccine at least 30 days before your departure date. The vaccine must not be older than 12 months (or match the manufacturer's recommended validity period). Your vet records the microchip number on the vaccination certificate. Puppies and kittens must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination.
Step 3Within 10 days of departure
Veterinary Health Certificate
Obtain an official health certificate from a licensed and government-accredited veterinarian. The certificate must confirm your pet is healthy, free from signs of infectious disease, and current on rabies vaccination. In the US, this is the USDA-endorsed APHIS Form 7001. EU travelers use the Annex IV health certificate.
Step 42-4 weeks before travel
ONSSA Import Permit
Contact the Office National de Sécurité Sanitaire des Produits Alimentaires (ONSSA) to obtain an import permit for your pet. This is Morocco's food safety and animal health authority. Email the regional ONSSA office near your Moroccan entry point. Include copies of the vaccination certificate, microchip documentation, and your travel itinerary. Processing takes 5-15 business days.
Step 5After health certificate, before departure
Government Endorsement
In many countries, your health certificate must be endorsed by a national veterinary authority. US travelers submit to USDA APHIS for endorsement. UK travelers use APHA. EU travelers get endorsement from the Official Veterinarian. This step certifies that the document meets international standards. Some endorsements can be done electronically via the VEHCS system.
Step 6At port of entry
Arrival & Customs Clearance
Upon arrival at a Moroccan airport or seaport, present all documents to customs and the veterinary inspection service. Officials will scan the microchip, review the rabies certificate dates, and verify the health certificate. Keep originals in a clear folder, not buried in checked luggage. Processing typically takes 20-45 minutes.
Quick Document Checklist
ISO 15-digit microchip (implanted before vaccination)
Rabies vaccination certificate (30 days - 12 months)
Official veterinary health certificate (within 10 days)
ONSSA import permit (apply 2-4 weeks ahead)
Government endorsement (USDA/APHA/EU Official Vet)
Pet photos and description (breed, color, weight)
Original vaccination booklet (all vaccinations)
Carrier/crate compliant with IATA standards
Airline Pet Policies for Morocco
Each airline has different rules for cabin pets, cargo transport, carrier dimensions, and fees. Confirm directly with the airline before booking.
Royal Air Maroc
CabinAllowed
CargoAvailable
Cabin Weight10 kg (pet + carrier)
Fees: From 500 MAD (cabin), from 1,200 MAD (cargo)
Book pet spot at least 48 hours in advance. Soft-sided carriers required for cabin. Maximum 2 pets per flight in cabin.
Air France
CabinAllowed
CargoAvailable
Cabin Weight8 kg (pet + carrier)
Fees: From 700 MAD (cabin), from 1,500 MAD (cargo)
Cabin pets limited to dogs and cats. Carrier must fit under seat (46 x 28 x 24 cm). Online booking available.
Transavia
CabinNot Allowed
CargoAvailable
Cabin WeightN/A
Fees: From 400 MAD (cargo only)
No cabin pets on any route. Cargo transport only through partner services. Weight limit 75 kg including crate.
Ryanair
CabinNot Allowed
CargoNot Available
Cabin WeightN/A
Fees: N/A
No pets allowed except registered assistance dogs. Consider alternative carriers if flying budget to Morocco.
TUI fly
CabinNot Allowed
CargoAvailable
Cabin WeightN/A
Fees: From 600 MAD (cargo)
Cargo pets accepted on select routes to Marrakech, Agadir, and Nador. Must book through customer service by phone.
Iberia
CabinAllowed
CargoAvailable
Cabin Weight8 kg (pet + carrier)
Fees: From 550 MAD (cabin), from 1,300 MAD (cargo)
Flights via Madrid to Casablanca and Marrakech. Cabin carrier max 45 x 35 x 25 cm. Book via call center.
Pro tip: If you are driving to Morocco via ferry from Spain (Algeciras to Tangier Med or Tarifa to Tangier), ferries operated by FRS, Balearia, and Inter Shipping allow pets on board. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled on deck. Cats must remain in carriers. The ferry crossing takes 35-90 minutes depending on the route.
Pet-Friendly Hotels & Accommodations
Finding pet-friendly lodging in Morocco takes planning. Most riads in the old medinas do not accept animals, but these properties actively welcome well-behaved pets.
Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa
MarrakechLuxury Hotel
From 300 MAD/night surcharge
Dogs under 15 kg welcome. Pet bed and bowls provided. Must not be left unattended in room.
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
MarrakechLuxury Resort
From 500 MAD/night surcharge
Dogs of any size accepted with advance notice. Dedicated pet concierge service. Pet menu available through room service.
Hyatt Regency Casablanca
CasablancaBusiness Hotel
From 250 MAD/night surcharge
Small pets under 10 kg. Maximum one pet per room. Pet relief area on ground floor garden.
Heure Bleue Palais
EssaouiraBoutique Hotel
From 200 MAD/night surcharge
Small dogs and cats accepted. Rooftop terrace available for pets. Prior arrangement required.
Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort
TangierBeach Resort
From 350 MAD/night surcharge
Dogs welcome in garden-view rooms. Beach access for leashed dogs during off-peak hours. Pet sitting available.
Atlas Medina & Spa
FesMid-Range Hotel
From 150 MAD/night surcharge
Small pets accepted on request. Limited to ground floor rooms. Pet deposit of 500 MAD refundable upon checkout.
Vacation Rental Tips
- Use Booking.com's "Pets Allowed" filter or Airbnb's pet-friendly tag for more options beyond hotels.
- Villas in Essaouira, Agadir, and Tangier coastal areas often accept pets more readily than city-center riads.
- Always message the host directly before booking to confirm their current pet policy and any breed restrictions.
- Bring your own pet bed, bowls, and cleanup supplies. Most Moroccan properties will not have pet amenities.
Veterinary Clinics in Morocco
Major cities have competent veterinary facilities. Save these contacts before you travel. Consultation fees typically run from 200 MAD to 500 MAD.
Clinique Vétérinaire de Casablanca
Casablanca — Bd Zerktouni, Casablanca
+212 522 27 XX XX
Mon-Sat 9:00-18:00
French, Arabic, English
Emergency care, surgery, vaccinations, dental, boarding
Cabinet Vétérinaire Marrakech
Marrakech — Avenue Mohammed V, Guéliz
+212 524 43 XX XX
Mon-Fri 9:00-17:00, Sat 9:00-13:00
French, Arabic
General practice, vaccinations, microchipping, X-ray
SOS Vétérinaire Rabat
Rabat — Avenue Hassan II, Agdal
+212 537 77 XX XX
24/7 emergency line
French, Arabic, English
Emergency care, ICU, surgery, lab diagnostics
Clinique Vétérinaire Tanger
Tangier — Rue de Belgique, Tangier
+212 539 32 XX XX
Mon-Sat 8:30-18:30
French, Spanish, Arabic
General practice, travel certificates, vaccinations, pharmacy
Pet First-Aid Kit for Morocco
Tick removal tool and tweezers
Antiseptic wipes and wound spray
Gauze pads and self-adhesive bandage
Oral rehydration salts (for heat)
Anti-diarrhea medication (vet-approved)
Paw balm (hot pavement protection)
Portable water bowl and bottled water
Copy of all vet records and prescriptions
Cultural Attitudes Toward Pets in Morocco
Understanding local perspectives on animals helps you navigate Morocco responsibly and reduces misunderstandings.
Dogs in Moroccan Culture
In Islamic tradition, dogs are considered ritually impure. Many Moroccans will avoid physical contact with dogs, and bringing a dog into someone's home without explicit permission is a serious social misstep. This does not mean Moroccans dislike dogs — guard dogs are common in rural properties, and attitudes are shifting in urban areas, particularly among younger generations.
Keep your dog leashed at all times in public. Never bring a dog into a mosque, a food souk, or a restaurant unless the owner explicitly invites it. Some taxi drivers will refuse to transport dogs. Petit taxis almost never accept pets; grand taxis are more flexible if you negotiate beforehand.
Cats in Moroccan Culture
Cats hold a respected place in Moroccan society. A hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad describes cats as clean animals. You will see cats everywhere — in medinas, mosques, riads, cafes, and shops. Many Moroccans feed street cats regularly, and some mosques maintain resident cat colonies.
If you travel with a cat, locals will generally react positively. Keep your cat in a secure carrier outdoors to prevent contact with the large street cat population, which can carry diseases. Indoor-only housing is strongly recommended. Moroccan street cats are not vaccinated and can transmit feline leukemia, FIV, and ringworm.
Stray Animals: What You Need to Know
Morocco has a significant stray dog and cat population, especially outside major cities. Stray dogs can form packs in rural areas and on the outskirts of towns. Most are not aggressive but are unvaccinated, and rabies remains a real risk. Do not let your pet interact with strays under any circumstances.
Several animal welfare organizations operate in Morocco. The Moroccan Society for the Protection of Animals (SPA Maroc) runs shelters in Casablanca and Rabat. SPANA (Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) focuses on working animals like donkeys and mules. If you encounter an injured stray, contact the local SPA or SPANA office rather than handling the animal yourself.
Rabies warning: Morocco reports 20-30 human rabies deaths per year, mostly from stray dog bites. Keep your pet's rabies vaccination current and avoid all contact with stray animals. If your pet is bitten by a stray, seek veterinary care immediately.
Practical Tips for Traveling with Pets in Morocco
Heat & Climate
Summer temperatures in Marrakech, Fes, and inland cities regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). Walk your dog before 8:00 AM and after 7:00 PM during June through September. Test pavement with the back of your hand — if you cannot hold it for five seconds, it is too hot for paws. Carry water at all times. Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, Persian cats) are at extreme risk of heatstroke and should avoid summer travel to Morocco entirely.
Getting Around
Renting a car is the most practical way to travel Morocco with a pet. Trains (ONCF) do not allow animals except guide dogs. CTM and Supratours buses prohibit pets completely. Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Careem or InDrive let you message the driver before pickup to confirm they accept pets. Grand taxis between cities may accept a crated pet in the trunk area if you hire the entire taxi (from 200 MAD to 600 MAD depending on distance).
Health Precautions
Leishmaniasis, transmitted by sandflies, is endemic in Morocco. Discuss preventive measures with your vet before departure — Scalibor collars repel sandflies for 5-6 months. Tick-borne diseases (ehrlichiosis, babesiosis) are present year-round. Apply a veterinary-grade tick preventive before travel. Avoid letting your dog drink from standing water, irrigation channels, or communal animal troughs. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
Best Time to Visit
October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures for pets. Coastal cities (Essaouira, Tangier, Agadir) remain mild year-round and are better choices than inland Marrakech or Fes during warm months. Spring (March-May) is ideal: moderate temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates. Avoid Ramadan period if you plan to eat at outdoor restaurants with your pet, as many close during daylight hours.
Pet Supplies in Morocco
Major supermarkets (Marjane, Carrefour, Acima) stock basic dry dog food, cat food, and litter. Premium brands (Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan) are available at veterinary clinics and pet shops in Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech. Prices run from 80 MAD to 250 MAD for a 2-4 kg bag of premium food. Specialty items like grain-free food, prescription diets, or specific supplements are harder to find. Bring enough of your pet's regular food for the entire trip to avoid digestive issues from sudden diet changes.
Useful Arabic & French Phrases
"J'ai un chien/chat" — I have a dog/cat (French)
"Est-ce que les animaux sont acceptés?" — Are pets accepted? (French)
"Où est le vétérinaire?" — Where is the vet? (French)
"Kelb / Mush" — Dog / Cat (Darija - Moroccan Arabic)
"Wesh kayen tabib dial l-hayawanat?" — Is there a vet? (Darija)
Returning Home: Re-Entry Requirements
Your home country's re-entry requirements may be stricter than Morocco's import rules. Plan for re-entry before you leave.
EU / UK
Morocco is not on the EU's approved country list for simple pet re-entry. Your pet needs a rabies antibody titer test (blood test) taken at least 30 days after vaccination and at least 3 months before re-entry. Get this test done at an EU-approved laboratory before you leave for Morocco.
United States
The CDC updated dog import rules in 2024. Dogs entering the US must have a valid rabies vaccination, a CDC Dog Import Form (completed online), and come from a country with low risk of dog rabies reintroduction. Morocco is classified as high-risk, meaning additional requirements apply including a USDA-endorsed foreign rabies vaccination certificate.
Canada
Canada requires a valid rabies vaccination certificate for dogs over 3 months old. No quarantine is required if documentation is in order. Cats do not need a rabies certificate for Canadian entry but should have current vaccinations. Check the CFIA website for the latest updates before your return trip.
Pet Travel Costs Breakdown
Budget for these expenses when planning your trip. Prices reflect 2026 averages and seasonal pricing can change.
| Expense | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Microchip implant | From 300 MAD | One-time; may already have |
| Rabies vaccination | From 200 MAD | Annual booster required |
| Health certificate | From 400 MAD | Vet consultation + certificate |
| USDA/APHA endorsement | From 500 MAD | Government fee; varies by country |
| ONSSA import permit | Free - 200 MAD | Processing fee varies |
| Airline cabin fee | From 500 MAD | Per flight, one way |
| Airline cargo fee | From 1,200 MAD | Per flight, one way |
| IATA-compliant crate | From 600 MAD | If you do not already own one |
| Hotel pet surcharge | From 150 MAD/night | Varies widely by property |
| Vet visit in Morocco | From 200 MAD | Consultation only; treatment extra |
| Pet food (premium) | From 80 MAD/bag | 2-4 kg bag, available in cities |
| Rabies titer test (EU re-entry) | From 800 MAD | Required before departure |
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about pet travel to Morocco.
Do I need a pet passport to bring my dog to Morocco?
Morocco does not accept the EU pet passport as a standalone document. You need a valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days before travel and no more than 12 months prior), an ISO 15-digit microchip, and an official veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of departure. Some countries also require an ONSSA import permit obtained in advance from Morocco's food safety authority.
Is there a quarantine period for pets entering Morocco?
Morocco does not impose a mandatory quarantine for dogs and cats arriving with valid documentation. If your paperwork is incomplete or the rabies vaccination timing is outside the accepted window, customs officials may hold your animal at the port of entry until the situation is resolved. Keeping all documents organized and accessible prevents delays.
Which airlines allow pets on flights to Morocco?
Royal Air Maroc accepts small pets in the cabin (up to 10 kg including carrier) and larger animals in the pressurized cargo hold. Air France, Transavia, and Ryanair also serve Moroccan airports with varying pet policies. Most low-cost carriers do not allow cabin pets. Book your pet's spot at least 48 hours before departure, as each flight has limited pet capacity.
Are dogs allowed in Moroccan hotels and riads?
Most traditional riads and budget hotels do not accept pets. However, international hotel chains like Sofitel, Four Seasons, and select boutique properties in Marrakech, Essaouira, and Agadir welcome dogs with advance notice. Vacation rentals through Airbnb and Booking.com often have pet-friendly filters. Always confirm the pet policy before booking and expect a cleaning surcharge of from 150 MAD to 500 MAD.
What is the cultural attitude toward dogs in Morocco?
Moroccan culture has a complex relationship with dogs. In Islam, dogs are considered ritually unclean (najis), which means many Moroccans avoid physical contact with them. However, guard dogs and working dogs are common in rural areas. Cats, on the other hand, are highly regarded and well cared for throughout the country. Keep your dog leashed in public, avoid bringing them into mosques or food markets, and be respectful of locals who prefer distance from dogs.
Can I find a veterinarian easily in Morocco?
Major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, and Tangier have well-equipped veterinary clinics with French- and sometimes English-speaking vets. Rural areas have far fewer options. The Moroccan veterinary association (Ordre National des Vétérinaires) maintains a directory. Expect consultation fees of from 200 MAD to 500 MAD. Carry a basic pet first-aid kit for travel outside urban areas.
What vaccines does my pet need for Morocco beyond rabies?
Rabies is the only legally required vaccination for entry. However, vets strongly recommend your dog be current on distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. For cats, feline calicivirus and panleukopenia are advisable. Leishmaniasis is present in Morocco via sandfly bites, so discuss preventive treatments (like Scalibor collars or miltefosine) with your vet before departure. Tick and flea prevention is essential year-round.
Plan Your Pet-Friendly Morocco Trip
Start the paperwork process at least 6 weeks before your departure date. The earlier you begin, the fewer surprises at the airport.