Best SIM Card in Marrakech: Local’s Guide for 2024

Visiting Morocco and looking for the best SIM card in Marrakech? I get it. I live here and if you want to explore the souks without getting lost then you 100% need data to use Google maps.

Sure you can download Maps.me and use that offline. But, how are you going to use WhatsApp to connect with tour operators or chat with your friends at home?

Or, what if your riad’s wifi isn’t working and you want to watch something on Netflix or check your email after a long day of sightseeing? Yeah, I have had this happen and it is a nightmare when you’re just sitting in your room doing nothing.

It also amazes me how much data we use on the reg and we don’t even realize it. Like, I check an e-mail and BOOM, 3 GB of data are gone. Okay, maybe not THAT much. But, you get what I mean.

Add in the fact that most cell phone companies charge you ridiculous fees for using data abroad – or give you such a small amount that it’s kind of a joke – and having data while you’re abroad is essential.

So, I am gonna walk you through how to get a SIM card in Marrakech and discuss what is the best SIM card in Marrakech. This way you easily choose the BEST SIM card for YOU!

Because, guess what? Everyone’s needs are different. I mean, if you are a digital nomad and doing an insane amount of work online in Morocco then your data needs will be totally different from someone who just wants to use Google maps.

Therefore, let’s swan-dive into this post and learn all about buying a SIM card in Marrakech.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

What is the Best SIM Card in Marrakech?

The best SIM card in Marrakech depends on how much data you use and how long your trip is to some of the safest places in Morocco. Generally speaking, MOST people use between 3 GB and 5 GB for a single trip.

However, if you are planning to travel to Morocco for a month or more then you will want to get at least 7 GB of data. Personally, I use a lot of data and always go WAY over 7 GB since I work remotely.

It’s also worth noting that I have been to many budget riads in Marrakech and Airbnbs where the wifi has not been great. So, if you get extra data then you can always hotspot off your phone or just use your device to watch Netflix, etc.

Generally, I don’t like faffing around with my SIM card since I travel so much. I hate having to get a paper clip, remove my US sim, put it somewhere safe, and then put in a new Moroccan SIM.

Then the new SIM doesn’t work on my phone or I lose/damage my original SIM. I just can’t be bothered anymore and much prefer the convenience of an eSIM.

It’s software you download on your phone so that you don’t have to physically change your SIM card. I like that I can keep my WhatsApp number, stay in contact with people at home, and use data while abroad.

If you like an eSIM like me and use a lot of data then I highly recommend Holafly. I have used them a bunch and what I like is that you get unlimited data.

You just select the number of days you plan to stay in Morocco, click pay, and then enjoy fast and reliable internet without worrying about roaming charges.

Holafly also offers 24/7 customer service and support if you have any issues before your trip. I have never had any issues with them and just download the eSIM before I arrive in Morocco.

I also like that data is unlimited. So, I never have to worry about running out of data or buying a new SIM while I am traveling, especially if coworking spaces in Marrakech are closed.

However, Holafly is pricey and plans for Morocco are around €34.00 for seven days. So, if you don’t plan to use a ton of data then you may want to go with another eSIM like Airalo.

I have also used this company as well and they are good if you need a limited amount of data since you can get:

• 1 GB for €7.50 (valid for 7 days)
• 2 GB of data for €13.50 (valid for 15 days)
• 3 GB of data for €19.00 (for 30 days)
• 5 GB of data for €29.50 (for 30 days.

Airalo is also an eSIM and works much like Holafly. Download the app, choose your destination/package, install your eSIM, activate your eSIM, and you’re good to go.

I am not TECH savvy at ALL and I have no problem using Airalo (same goes for Holafly. I like Airalo but I prefer Holafly since having unlimited data is better for me.

However, if you just want a cheap SIM card in Marrakech and don’t really care about changing your physical SIM card then just get one upon arrival. You can get one at Marrakech Airport from a variety of different operators.

My Moroccan partner uses Orange and the connectivity is great (even in the High Atlas Mountains), as are the prices. For 150 Dirhmas ($15.00), you’ll receive 10 GB of data and 300 minutes that is valid for 30 days.

If you need a lot of data or are going to be in the country awhile then you can opt for 20 GB of data and 600 minutes for 300 Dirhams ($30.00). Just know that your data will expire after 30 days.

But, it’s a good option if you’re planning a Morocco road trip itinerary.

You can probably get cheaper local SIM cards at a local corner store, but many store owners don’t speak English. So, buying a SIM card in Marrakech can be tricky here with the language barrier.

Overall, get Holalfy if you are a digital nomad, Airalo if you like an eSIM but don’t need a ton of data, and an Orange brand SIM card upon arrival if you want a cheap SIM card in Marrakech.

Local Tip: Feel free to ask a hotel or riad about the speed of their wifi BEFORE you book. Some places to stay in Marrakech have stupid slow wifi that will drive you insane, especially if you have work that needs to get done.

I run into this problem quite a bit and always suggest you ask before booking if wifi is important to you.

Additionally, due to a recent influx in the number of Ryan Air flights into Marrakech Menara Airport, wait times at the airport can be upwards of 3 hours.

As a result, you may want to purchase an eSIM before arriving to save time and to keep in touch with anyone who might be trying to pick you up from the airport.

Why Should You Buy a SIM Card in Marrakech (and Morocco)?

One of my friends once decided NOT to get a SIM card in Morocco upon arrival. I told her she should because she would get hit with a TON of insane fees if she used any data while she was abroad.

She assured me it was fine and totally unnecessary since we would be traveling to some of the coolest places in Morocco together.

Well, what do you know? Fast forward two weeks and she sent me a WhatsApp message saying that she got charged $800.00 in excess data fees from her cell phone company. Insane right?

So, the moral of the story? ALWAYS get a SIM card or an eSIM when you travel since is very easy to use data without even knowing it (unless you plan to leave your cell phone on flight mode the entire time).

Plus, SIM cards really aren’t that expensive and are good to have in case of an emergency or if someone needs to get in touch with you. I honestly don’t care what SIM card you get but I recommend at least getting one during your trip.

This way you can use Google Maps, contact someone if you run into trouble on the road, read a blog post (like mine), or stay in touch with family and friends without freaking out about roaming fees.

Yeah, having a stable internet connection just makes things 10,000 times easier.

Sure, there are areas with public WiFi. However, they can be unsecure and typically require you to use a VPN for safety.

How Much Data Do You Need for Morocco?

Honestly, the answer depends on you and how much data you use. On average, most people use between 3 GB and 5 GB of data for a shorter trip (like a week or two weeks).

But, If you travel for a month (or longer) then you will probably need at least 7 GB of data – if not more.

Similarly, if you like to do work while you travel then you’ll definitely need a lot more data. I would err on the side of caution and get more data since many hotels, riads, and Airbnbs in Morocco have less than stellar WiFi.

I have stayed in many places during my time here and have learned this the hard way over and over again.

Can I Keep My WhatsApp Number if I Use a SIM Card in Morocco/Marrakech?

One of the best things about buying a SIM card in Morocco is that you can still use your original number with WhatsApp.

This is because your WhatsApp account is tied to the phone number used to create the account. So, changing SIM cards makes no difference as long as you don’t alter your number in your WhatsApp settings.

I know it sounds a bit confusing, but when you use a foreign SIM card, or an eSIM, your WhatsApp account will still work as normal. You’ll just need data to send and receive messages, which is why it’s a good idea to get a data plan in Morocco.

Plus, if you decide to buy a SIM card in Marrakech while at airport, the person behind the counter will help you set your SIM card up and make sure it works before you start your 3 day Marrakech itinerary.

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Marrakech?

When it comes to buying a SIM card in Morocco, you have a couple of different options available to you.

You can buy one upon arrival at the airport, you can get one from a cell phone store, you can get an eSIM in advance, or you can get one from a street vendor. Have a look at each of the options below and figure out what will be best for you.

Marrakech Menara Airport

If you just want a local SIM and don’t want to have to run around Marrakech looking for one then your best option will be to get a local SIM at the airpot.

Yes, SIM cards here can be a bit more expensive than the ones you’ll find in local stores. However, the staff here speak English and they will also help you setup the SIM card.

Plus, you will probably need data before you leave if you want to use Google Maps to find that cool riad in Marrakech with a pool that you’re staying at.

Anyway, you’ll see stands representing the best cell phone companies in Morocco once you enter the baggage claim area. These include Orange, Maroc Telecom, and INWI.

These providers sell a variety of data plans and you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Just know that if you want to buy a SIM card in Marrakech at the airport then you must purchase it at one of these stands.

If you don’t then once you go through customs you won’t be able to re-enter the airport to buy a SIM card. You’ll also want to have local Dirhams with you since some vendors don’t accept credit cards.

That’s why one of my top Marrakech travel tips is to always have cash handy.

Local Tip: Marrakech Airport has been PACKED with people lately since a lot more Ryan Air flights have been arriving from Europe (this is a very new thing. Wait times to get through immigration can be upwards of 3 hours.

Therefore, you may want to save time and buy an eSIM in advance. This is also a great option because it allows you to stay in contact with anyone who might be picking you up from the airport.

Cell Phone Stores

If you don’t get to buy a SIM card at the airport then you can always buy one from a cell phone store. They are everywhere in Marrakech, as well as in other major cities like Fes, Casablanca, and Rabat.

Generally, the prices and packages available at these stores are similar to what you’ll find at the airport. Just be sure to bring your passport (and a copy) to purchase a SIM card.

Most employees also probably won’t speak great English. So, communication can be a bit challenging.

Local Stores

Another option is to purchase a SIM card from one of the many vendors in Marrakech. My partner does this all the time since he is Moroccan, knows the prices, and knows exactly what he wants.

However, you’re a foreigner. So, although these vendors have SIM cards from reputable providers like Orange, INWI, and Maroc Telecom, you might not always know exactly what you’re getting unless you can read Arabic.

They also generally don’t speak English and might try to charge you more than the SIM card is worth. So, I would only go this route if you speak at least basic Derija and know exactly how much the SIM card should cost.

But, my partner buys SIM cards this way ALL the time and has no issues doing it.

eSIM Cards

As you already know, I prefer to use an eSIM. I like that you can download it before you arrive and that you don’t have to take your original SIM card out and store it in a safe place.

I also hate trying to find a paper clip to try and remove my original SIM. Now, if you don’t need a lot of data in Morocco, just order the Choukran eSIM from Airalo.

Select the plan that best suits your needs and pay. Afterward, scan the QR code sent to your email to activate your data package, and you’re all set!

I recently discovered Airalo and it has become my go-to for eSIMs for short trips where I am not working since they don’t offer unlimited data.

On the plus side, Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and offers data plans for over 190 countries, making it very easy to stay connected to the internet with the Choukran eSIM for Morocco.

It’s worth noting that eSIMs can only be obtained from a third-party provider. So, your phone must be carrier-unlocked to install an eSIM. So, if you haven’t used an eSIM before, I would contact your cell phone provider about this.

I would also make sure that your device is eSIM compatible. This usually isn’t an issue if you have a newer smartphone. But, it can be problematic if you have a very basic cell phone.

Local TIp: If you like eSIMs but use a lot of data then consider Holafly. I use them all the time and love that the connection is great, the data is unlimited, and have 24/7 customer service if you have any issues at all.

It’s an awesome option if you are a digital nomad in Morocco.

Morocco SIM Card and eSIM Providers

Here is a list of the different SIM card providers that you can use in Morocco. I have also included my two favorite eSIM providers in the list as well.

Orange

Even though Orange has the smallest 4G network in Morocco, it remains a viable choice for anyone looking for a SIM card with a data plan.

Their packages include one with 10 GB of data and 300 minutes. This plan is valid for 30 days and costs 165 Dirhams ($16.50). They also have a 20 GB data plan with 600 minutes. It is also valid for 30 days and costs 330 MAD ($33.00).

INWI

INWI is a fantastic option if you want flexibility since they allow users to create custom packages on Morocco’s best 4G/5G network.

You can select any amount of data at €1 per gigabyte or opt for the unlimited plan at 550 MAD (€50). Both packages are valid for 30 days.

Maroc Telecom

Maroc Telecom is renowned for having the strongest 4G/5G network in Morocco and offers a broad range of prepaid data packages.

Their offerings include 20 GB for 30 days at 220 MAD ($22.00), 30 GB for 30 days at 330 MAD ($33.00), and 40 GB for 30 days at 440 MAD ($44.00).

Airalo

I have talked about Airalo a bunch. So, I am not gonna repeat myself. But, I have used them and had no problem with their eSIM. I thought the service was good and the speeds were fast.

My one problem with Airalo is that you don’t get a lot of data for the price that you pay. I mean, 5 GB is their biggest plan and I could probably go through that in a week.

“Just returned from a trip to Malaysia and Indonesia and found Airalo brilliant. I had a few issues setting it up, but their customer service chat via the app was really helpful. They talked me through the process and made sure I was all set. I was then able to switch to local networks in each country and had excellent reception. Once I got home I just switched my phone back to my usual SIM on settings.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

The last thing I was to do is go through an eSIM and buy another one before my trip is over. So, if you don’t plan on using a ton of data then Airalo is a great choice. However, if you are a heavy data user then try Holafly instead.

Holafly

Alright, so I find Holalfy to be a bit more expensive than Airalo. However, what I like is that you get unlimited data and that you can create a plan that is customized to the number of days that you’ll be in Marrakech and Marrakech.

ivatOn the whole, I found the setup to be easy. However, I think it is easy to accidentally activate your Holafly eSIM. So, I would wait until the last minute before you set it up.

Other than that, I thought the 5G (and sometimes 4G) seeds were great. I also loved that the wifi was super fast the entire time. There was no attempt at throttling and I didn’t have to deal with lagging towards the end of my eSIM’s validity.

“Absolutely amazing service. Very competitive pricing with very very good internet speed and coverage. Worked better for me than the locally bought simcard. Highly recommended. Thank you so much ! I’ll definitely use Holafly again for my next trips. (I traveled to Russia).”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

But, I am not the only fan of Holafly, They have a 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, with over 36,000 reviews. So, I’m not the only one who thinks Holafly is awesome.

All in all, I highly recommend Holafly and think it’s a great option if you’re looking for unlimited data while exploring the souks of Marrakech.

Conclusion

That wraps up this guide to buying a SIM card in Marrakech and buying a SIM card in Morocco. If you can, make sure that at least one person in your party has a Moroccan SIM card.

This way, if you run into a problem or have an emergency then you can quickly get help. If nothing else, I want you to stay safe in Marrakech. Personally, I like an eSIM for convenience, even if it is a little more expensive than a regular SIM.

However, getting a local SIM is a great option too. It is perfect for anyone on a budget who needs data to find some of the best free things to do in Morocco.

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