Golf holiday in Morocco: the complete 2026 guide
- 15 September 2026
Morocco has been one of the world’s serious golf destinations for several decades, and for a reason that is easy to state: under three hours’ flight from most European capitals, it offers courses laid out by the biggest names in golf architecture, sunshine for most of the year, and a country that is worth the trip on its own. The practical heart of it is Marrakech — fourteen courses around one city, the only place in Morocco where you can play a different layout every day from the same hotel — with Agadir, Rabat and the Atlantic coast as the other stops. Whether you are a beginner, a regular club golfer or a low handicapper, this guide covers where to play, where to stay, when to come and what to sort out before you book.
A royal inheritance: how golf came to Morocco
The story of Moroccan golf is bound up with the Crown. The British brought the game to the country at the start of the twentieth century, but it was King Hassan II — a devoted and diligent player himself — who turned it into a national pursuit. In 1971, at his direct instigation, Moroccan golf stepped onto the international stage with the creation of the Hassan II Golf Trophy, a tournament that would become one of the most prestigious in Africa.
From that founding date the courses multiplied across the kingdom. After the first edition, won by Orville Moody — the 1969 US Open champion — the courses at Mohammedia, Marrakech and Tangier were renovated and new ones opened in Fez, Meknes, Casablanca, Agadir and many other cities. Today Morocco counts more than forty golf courses across the country, from nine holes to forty-five, which makes it one of the best-equipped golf destinations in Africa and the Mediterranean basin.
King Mohammed VI has carried that inheritance forward with conviction. The creation of the Royal Golf Academy and the Moroccan Pro Tour reflects a long-term aim: to open the game to more Moroccans and to place the country among the world’s golfing elite.
Why Morocco — and why Marrakech first
Several things make Morocco a golf destination in its own right, one that stands comparison with Spain, Portugal or Dubai without apology.
Under three hours from Europe
Morocco is reachable from most European airports in under three hours. Marrakech-Menara, Agadir-Al Massira, Casablanca-Mohammed V and Rabat-Salé all take direct flights from Paris, Madrid, London, Brussels, Amsterdam and many other cities. That proximity makes a long weekend of golf perfectly realistic for anyone short of holiday.
A climate that works all year
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year in cities such as Agadir and Marrakech, Morocco offers playable conditions for a very long season. Mild temperatures from October to May mean you play in real comfort, well away from the excesses of summer — and that is one of Morocco’s main advantages over its Mediterranean rivals. Our month-by-month guide has the detail.
Courses by the biggest names in the game
Morocco has attracted the best course architects in the world. The signatures include Robert Trent Jones Senior (Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat), Gary Player (Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort at El Jadida), Kyle Phillips (Al Maaden Golf, Marrakech), Jack Nicklaus (Michlifen Golf & Country Club at Ifrane) and Cabell B. Robinson (Royal Golf El Jadida). That level of architecture is rare for a destination of this size.
Value that is hard to argue with
Set against the golf destinations of southern Europe or the Gulf, Morocco offers a particularly attractive ratio of quality to price. Green fees on international-standard courses remain accessible, five-star hotels are often cheaper than their European equivalents, and the local food is both excellent and inexpensive. A golf holiday in Morocco is a premium experience without a premium bill — our green fee guide gives the ranges city by city, and the week-long budget prices the whole trip.
A different country between rounds
Between two days on the fairways, Morocco has no end of things to see: the souks of Marrakech, the ramparts of the Fez medina — a UNESCO World Heritage site — the beaches of Agadir, the dunes at Merzouga, and a table built around tagine and couscous. A golf trip to Morocco is always a proper journey, not just a sporting excursion.
Where to play: Morocco's golf destinations
Morocco divides into seven golfing regions, each with its own character. Here is a full portrait of the ones that matter most, starting with the one that matters most of all.
Marrakech: the Red City of fairways
Known as the “Ochre City”, Marrakech is without question the golf capital of Morocco. It has fourteen courses, nearly all within about half an hour of the city — see our Marrakech page for the full list — and they suit every level of player. The backdrop of the snow-capped Atlas is, quite simply, spectacular.
Among the Marrakech essentials:
- Royal Golf Marrakech: one of the oldest courses in Morocco, with 15,000 trees and an atmosphere steeped in history. A favourite of King Hassan II himself, it has been continually renovated and improved over the decades.
- Al Maaden Golf: designed by Kyle Phillips, this eighteen sits at the foot of the first Atlas foothills and offers a varied layout with elevated tees, water hazards and greens ringed by palms, cypresses and almond trees. A gem of modern design.
- Assoufid Golf Club: regularly ranked among the best courses in Africa, with uninterrupted views of the Atlas peaks from the fairways.
- PalmGolf Marrakech Ourika: twenty-five minutes south of the city, designed in the desert-golf style by the Canadian pair Neil Haworth and Stéphane Talbot, and run by the international operator Troon Golf.
- Samanah Golf Club: an unusual course with a desert feel at the foot of the Atlas ranges, for a round that feels genuinely different.
For those who like an evening out, Marrakech has a lively night-time scene in its riads and restaurants, which makes it the ideal base for combining golf with the city itself.
Agadir: sun and ocean, 300 days a year
Agadir, Morocco’s best-known seaside resort, accounts for about a third of the country’s tourist nights. With its exceptional climate and long sandy beaches, it draws thousands of golfers every year who want a holiday that mixes sport with time on the Atlantic. The site documents four courses here — see our Agadir page.
The headline courses in Agadir:
- Golf du Soleil: a genuine golfer’s playground. The complex offers two 18-hole courses — Championship and Tikida, both par 72 — for a total of 36 holes, so every player finds the level of difficulty that suits them. The Tikida Golf Palace, a five-star hotel of 54 suites, sits at the heart of this garden of golf for total immersion in the game.
- Tazegzout Golf: designed by Kyle Phillips, a short drive north of Agadir and set 80 metres above sea level for spectacular views. It lies within a beach resort, on a unique natural site planted with argan forest — the emblematic tree of the Souss-Massa.
Agadir also hosted the Hassan II Golf Trophy from 2011 to 2015. The city is a good base for excursions into the High Atlas, the Dadès gorges or the Berber villages of the Souss — a golf holiday in Agadir reaches well beyond the fairways.
Rabat: the capital of royal golf
Morocco’s administrative capital is home to one of the most storied courses on the African continent: Royal Golf Dar Es Salam. Laid out by Robert Trent Jones Senior at the personal initiative of King Hassan II, this golfing jewel spreads across some 440 hectares of lush cork oak, eucalyptus and pine forest, only fifteen minutes from the city centre.
Royal Golf Dar Es Salam is a 45-hole complex over three distinct courses:
- The Red Course: the jewel in the crown. At 7,633 yards (6,980 metres) this championship eighteen is technical, demanding and selective. Built for competition in 1971, it is the permanent home of the Hassan II Trophy and has hosted the greatest names in world golf.
- The Blue Course: an eighteen of 7,072 yards (6,467 metres) and the official venue of the Lalla Meryem Cup. Accessible but demanding, it will delight good players.
- The Green Course: a nine-holer of 2,308 yards, ideal for beginners or for warming up before a round on the Red or the Blue.
In Rabat, anyone with an interest in history will also enjoy the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V — monuments of striking architectural beauty a few kilometres from the fairways.
El Jadida and Mazagan: golf on the Atlantic
Set in a superb Atlantic bay, El Jadida — formerly Mazagan, a fortified sixteenth-century Portuguese town and a UNESCO World Heritage site — is home to two of the most spectacular courses in Morocco.
- Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort: designed in 2010 by the legendary South African champion Gary Player, this links along the Atlantic shore is regularly ranked among the best in Africa. At 7,529 yards (6,885 metres) it is one of the longest courses in Morocco, and it keeps an exceptionally natural feel with uninterrupted views of the ocean. The resort attached to it offers five-star accommodation with 7 kilometres of private beach, several restaurants, a spa, a casino and a beach club.
- Royal Golf El Jadida: the work of the renowned architect Cabell B. Robinson, this par-72 eighteen runs between the ocean and a forest of eucalyptus, acacia and monkey-puzzle trees. Opened in 1993 and recently renovated, it has staged many international events.
Tangier, Fez, Ifrane and Meknes: the ones worth the detour
Morocco still holds plenty of surprises for the golfer who likes to explore:
- Royal Country Club de Tanger: founded in 1914, one of the first golf clubs in Africa. Only 3 km from the city centre, at the foot of a hillside of pines and firs, it looks out over the sea and the Strait of Gibraltar, and its favoured climate lets you play the eighteen all year round.
- Michlifen Golf & Country Club (Ifrane): at 1,650 metres in the Middle Atlas, this Jack Nicklaus eighteen is a course like no other in the country. Views through 360 degrees, stands of century-old trees and rocky outcrops make up a breathtaking mountain setting, radically different from the coastal courses.
- Royal Golf de Meknès: a nine-hole course laid out inside the grounds of the Royal Palace, something no other course in Africa can claim. Immaculately kept, with a pleasant clubhouse, this course set between the ramparts of an imperial city is a curiosity not to be missed.
- Royal Golf de Fès: a course of real charm, designed with respect for a superb olive grove on the foothills of the Atlas, with the calm and stately atmosphere of Morocco’s spiritual capital.
The Hassan II Trophy and the Lalla Meryem Cup: when the world's elite comes to Morocco
If Morocco has earned its reputation as an international golf destination, it owes much of it to two founding events: the Hassan II Golf Trophy and the Lalla Meryem Cup.
The Hassan II Trophy: fifty years of international prestige
Created in 1971 by the late King Hassan II, the Hassan II Golf Trophy is the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament on the African continent. It is played every year at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat, on the legendary Red Course by Robert Trent Jones. The winner receives one of the more original prizes in golf: a gold dagger set with precious stones.
Since 2023 the Hassan II Trophy has been an official event on the American PGA Tour Champions, the circuit for the game’s legends over fifty. Ernie Els, Colin Montgomerie, José María Olazábal, Retief Goosen — the greatest names in golf have walked the fairways of Rabat. For spectators, the tournament is a rare chance to watch these champions up close in an exceptional green setting.
The Lalla Meryem Cup: the women's elite in Morocco
Founded in 1993, the Lalla Meryem Cup has become a fixture on the Ladies European Tour (LET). It is played at the same time on the Blue Course at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, which makes Morocco the first country in the world to host, in the same city and on the same dates, a men’s and a women’s tournament from two different international tours. That distinction is a source of national pride and a strong argument in Morocco’s bids for future major competitions.
“The Hassan II Trophy makes Morocco a privileged golf destination, strengthening the image of the Kingdom and making golf a driver of tourism and economic development.” — Royal Moroccan Golf Federation
When is the best time to play golf in Morocco?
The golf high season in Morocco runs from October to April, and good playing conditions last from September to June. Here is how the year breaks down, to help you choose the window that suits you:
- September to November (autumn): temperatures ease gently after the summer and the courses are in excellent condition after their summer rest. Ideal for Marrakech, Agadir and El Jadida, and there are few people on the courses.
- December to February (mild winter): the high season par excellence for Agadir (15–20 °C on average); also a fine time for Marrakech, though nights can be cool. This is also when the Hassan II Trophy is played — perfect for combining your own golf with a professional tournament.
- March to May (spring): probably the ideal period for every Moroccan destination. The vegetation is at its best, the temperatures are perfect (20–26 °C) and the days are lengthening. A window not to miss.
- June to August (summer): to be avoided inland, in Marrakech above all (35–40 °C). Agadir stays playable thanks to the Atlantic breeze (25–28 °C), though mornings are recommended. Tangier and the northern Atlantic coast remain comfortable.
Our advice: if you only have one window available, choose March or April. Morocco is in full bloom, temperatures are perfect from Tangier to Agadir, and you avoid the summer tourist peaks. The month-by-month guide goes deeper, with green fees for each season.
Hotels and golf resorts: where to stay
Morocco has hotels of a very high standard, often built into the golf complexes themselves. Here is a selection of the best addresses by destination.
In Marrakech
- La Mamounia: Marrakech’s legendary palace hotel, regularly voted the best in Africa. It offers à la carte golf stays with access to the city’s best courses, including a minimum of two green fees tailored to the length of your stay. An institution.
- Luxury villas and riads near the courses: renting a private villa or a riad of some standing is a popular option with groups of golfers who want more privacy and flexibility than a hotel gives.
In Agadir
- Tikida Golf Palace: a five-star hotel of 54 suites at the heart of the Golf du Soleil complex, with free shuttles from the ten main seafront hotels in Agadir. The address for golfers who want nothing but golf.
- Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay and the other big seafront hotels: a wide choice of four- and five-star properties, all a short drive from the courses.
In El Jadida and Mazagan
- Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort (MGallery by Sofitel): the complete resort par excellence. Directly on the Gary Player course, with 7 km of private beach, a casino, a spa, a range of restaurants and any number of activities. An all-in-one for a golf holiday with no compromises.
- Pullman El Jadida Royal Golf & Spa: an elegant combination of quality accommodation and direct access to one of the finest eighteens in Morocco.
In Rabat
- Fairmont Rabat-Salé: ideally placed where the Bouregreg river meets the Atlantic, with a unique view of the historic capital. Close to Royal Golf Dar Es Salam.
- La Villa Mandarine: a boutique hotel full of history, set in an orange grove in the heart of the capital. A refined address for a quieter stay.
Practical advice for a golf holiday in Morocco
Flying with your clubs
Nearly every airline serving Morocco takes golf bags as additional luggage for a surcharge of €30 to €80 (about £26–70) depending on the carrier and the route. Book the option online when you buy your ticket. Alternatively, most of the larger golf complexes offer club hire on site, which simplifies the logistics considerably.
Booking green fees
It is strongly advisable to book your green fees in advance, especially for the most sought-after courses such as Royal Golf Dar Es Salam and the Marrakech courses, and particularly in high season (December to April). Many specialist golf tour operators offer packages that bundle flights, hotel and green fees at negotiated rates that are well worth having. Our booking guide covers caddies, handicap certificates and how far ahead the good tee times go.
Dress code and etiquette
Moroccan clubs apply the classic rules of golf etiquette, and apply them strictly: collared shirt required, golf shorts or trousers, no jeans or T-shirts on the prestige courses. Pack accordingly, and pack sun cream — even in winter the Moroccan sun can be fierce.
Entry formalities
Citizens of the European Union, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada and the United States do not need a visa for stays in Morocco of up to 90 days. A valid passport is required: an identity card alone is no longer accepted for entry to Morocco. Always check your government’s travel advice (for British travellers, GOV.UK: Morocco entry requirements) or the official website of the Moroccan embassy in your country for up-to-date information before you travel.
Money and payment
The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). The main bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, resorts and golf clubhouses. Carry some dirhams in cash for tipping caddies — tipping is a very common and much-appreciated custom on Moroccan courses.
Morocco earns its place
A golf holiday in Morocco is far more than a sporting break. It is the promise of a complete change of scene, a subtle blend of international-standard golf and the magic of a country with a thousand faces. From the royal fairways of Rabat to the Atlantic links at El Jadida, by way of the mountain course at Ifrane and the green oases of Marrakech, Morocco offers a diversity of golfing experience that is unique in the world.
Whether you come to play an international competition, to sharpen your game at a leading academy, or simply to share a few unforgettable days with fellow enthusiasts, the kingdom will win you over, round after round. Morocco, the leading golf destination in Africa, has not finished making itself heard — and that is good news for golf addicts everywhere.
All our English guides are gathered on one page; the detailed course pages are linked throughout this guide. For a tailored itinerary — tee times, transfers, hotels — write to us. We answer in English.
Frequently asked questions
How many golf courses are there in Morocco?
Morocco currently has more than forty golf courses, from nine holes to forty-five, spread across seven golfing regions: Marrakech, Agadir, Rabat, El Jadida–Casablanca, Tangier, the imperial cities (Fez, Meknes) and Ouarzazate.
Which is the best city for a golf holiday in Morocco?
Marrakech is generally considered the golf capital of Morocco, with the greatest concentration of high-quality courses — fourteen on this site — and an exceptional setting for visitors. Agadir is the choice for those who want beach and coastal golf, while Rabat draws connoisseurs for the legendary Royal Golf Dar Es Salam.
Is golf in Morocco suitable for beginners?
Yes, absolutely. Nearly every Moroccan golf complex has courses suited to every level, from beginners to experienced players. Many resorts have golf academies and practice facilities — driving range, putting green, short-game areas — so that newcomers can improve during their stay.
Can you play golf in Morocco all year round?
Broadly, yes. The high season runs from October to April, and conditions stay good from September to June. July and August are the hottest months in inland cities such as Marrakech, but golf remains playable in the mornings and in coastal cities such as Agadir, thanks to the Atlantic breeze.
What is the Hassan II Trophy?
The Hassan II Trophy is an international golf tournament created in 1971 by King Hassan II. It is normally played at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat and has been an event on the American PGA Tour Champions since 2023. It is the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament on the African continent, and the winner receives a gold dagger set with precious stones.
Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco from Europe?
No. Citizens of the European Union and the United Kingdom do not need a visa to enter Morocco for stays of under 90 days. A valid passport is required, however: an identity card alone is no longer accepted. Check your government’s travel advice for Morocco before you travel.
Plan your golf trip in Morocco
Courses, dates, number of players: tell us what you have in mind and we come back with a proposal. We answer in English.