In the northwestern corner of Africa, where the Atlas Mountains meet the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, lies a golfing destination combining world-class courses and exotic cultural experiences. With its year-round sunshine, dramatic landscapes, and rich heritage, this country has emerged as one of golf’s most exciting frontiers.
While some European countries have a history in golf, The Kingdom of Morocco can be viewed as rich and pristine in its development and growth of golf along with bolstering a more hospitable delivery of golf and the growth of Golf.
Golf in many parts of the world can be seen as an elitist activity and while that might hold some “past” truth, We at BrokenZebra Golf believe that such a beautiful game that challenges the mind body, and spirit, played in an amazing country with the opportunity to grow the game and involve all people from all walks of life is the best way to achieve the harmony and balance that most avid golfers and enthusiast have long learned.
That secret is that ” Golf” is more than just a game. It is an approach to developing oneself in a manner that is honest, ethical, competitive, and graceful among many things, and in those lessons learned lie the added benefit of health and wellness, friendships, bonds, and an appreciation for nature and those who aid in maintaining it.
Golf in Morocco may appear to be just another destination, but I encourage you to allow us at BrokenZebra Golf to help create an adventure that both golfers and non-golfers can experience that is worth the memories.
Perfect Climate for Year-Round Golf
Morocco’s climate is perhaps its most compelling feature for golfers seeking to escape the seasonal limitations of courses in Europe and North America. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, the country offers ideal playing conditions when many other destinations are covered in snow or drenched in rain.
The coastal regions, where most of Morocco’s premier courses are located, enjoy mild winter temperatures averaging 64°F (18°C) during the day, making December through February perhaps the most pleasant time to play. Summer brings warmer conditions, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the 90s°F (30s°C), but the refreshing Atlantic breezes keep coastal courses like those in Agadir and Essaouira comfortable even during peak summer months.
The country’s varied topography creates distinct microclimates. Marrakech, nestled at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, offers slightly cooler mornings and evenings compared to the coast, making early tee times particularly enjoyable. Meanwhile, courses in the north, near Tangier and the Mediterranean, benefit from cooler sea breezes throughout the summer.
This climate reliability makes Morocco an exceptional winter golf destination for Europeans seeking sunshine without long-haul flights, and a viable year-round option with proper planning around tee times in the warmer months.
World-Class Courses Designed by Legends
What truly elevates Morocco’s golfing status is the caliber of its courses. The kingdom has invested heavily in developing golf facilities designed by some of the most respected names in course architecture:
Royal Golf Dar Es Salam (Rabat)
Considered the crown jewel of Moroccan golf, this Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece features three courses (Red, Blue, and Green), with the Red Course hosting the prestigious Hassan II Trophy tournament on the European Tour. Set within a 1,000-acre forest of cork oak, palm, and eucalyptus trees, the course combines strategic challenge with natural beauty. Its signature par-3 9th hole, playing across water to an island green, ranks among the most memorable in African golf.
Mazagan Golf Club (El Jadida)
Designed by Gary Player, this links-style course stretches along the Atlantic coastline with breathtaking ocean views from 16 of its 18 holes. The course’s firm fairways, deep bunkers, and exposure to coastal winds create a playing experience reminiscent of traditional Scottish links. At 7,484 yards from the championship tees, it presents a serious challenge for accomplished players while remaining enjoyable for mid-handicappers playing from forward tees.
Assoufid Golf Club (Marrakech)
This desert-style course, designed by Niall Cameron and opened in 2014, has quickly garnered international acclaim. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, Assoufid brilliantly incorporates the natural desert landscape with indigenous drought-resistant vegetation. The course’s dramatic elevation changes and strategic bunkering demand thoughtful shot-making, while its immaculate conditioning rivals that of top desert courses in Arizona or Dubai.
Royal Golf Marrakech
Dating back to the 1920s, this is Morocco’s most historic course, having hosted dignitaries including Winston Churchill and Dwight Eisenhower. Recently renovated while preserving its classic character, the course is distinguished by mature cypress, eucalyptus, and palm trees, creating a parkland feel that contrasts beautifully with Marrakech’s desert surroundings. The clubhouse retains colonial-era charm and houses an impressive collection of historic photographs documenting the course’s illustrious past.
Tazegzout Golf (Taghazout Bay)
Designed by Kyle Phillips (creator of Kingsbarns in Scotland), this spectacular cliff-top course near Agadir offers panoramic Atlantic views from every hole. The course’s dramatic 18th hole, playing along the edge of oceanside cliffs, provides a fitting finale to a round characterized by strategic options and breathtaking vistas. The modern clubhouse features expansive terraces perfectly positioned to enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic with a post-round beverage.
Exceptional Value Compared to European Destinations
For international golfers, particularly those from Europe and North America, Morocco offers remarkable value without compromising quality. Green fees at top Moroccan courses typically range from €50-120 (approximately $55-135), roughly half the cost of comparable courses in Spain, Portugal, or Dubai.
The value proposition extends beyond the courses themselves. Luxury accommodations at golf resorts or nearby five-star hotels can be secured for significantly less than equivalent properties in traditional golf destinations. Many Moroccan golf resorts also offer attractively priced packages that include accommodations, multiple rounds of golf, and often spa treatments or culinary experiences.
This economic advantage becomes even more pronounced when considering overall trip expenses. Dining, transportation, and additional activities all come at a fraction of what travelers might expect to pay in Europe or the United States. Even hiring a caddie—highly recommended for first-time visitors to navigate unfamiliar courses and read the sometimes subtle green contours—is remarkably affordable, typically costing €15-25 ($17-28) per round.
Rich Cultural Experiences Beyond the Course
What truly distinguishes Morocco from other golf destinations is the cultural richness awaiting players after they complete their rounds. Few places in the world allow golfers to combine world-class golf with such immersive cultural experiences:
Marrakech
After playing the exceptional courses around the Red City, golfers can explore the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where storytellers, snake charmers, and food vendors create an atmospheric sensory experience. The labyrinthine souks offer unparalleled shopping for handcrafted items from Berber carpets to intricate metalwork. The city’s riads—traditional houses with interior courtyards converted into boutique hotels—provide authentic accommodation options unlike any standard golf resort.
Casablanca
Home to several excellent courses, Morocco’s largest city offers a fascinating blend of French colonial architecture and modern development. The impressive Hassan II Mosque, featuring the world’s tallest minaret at 689 feet, stands as an architectural marvel open to non-Muslim visitors through guided tours. The city’s Corniche area provides seaside dining options perfect for evening relaxation after a day on the links.
Fez
While not home to golf courses itself, the ancient city of Fez makes an excellent cultural side trip from nearby golfing hubs. Its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains over 9,000 narrow alleyways housing workshops where artisans practice centuries-old crafts. The tanneries, with their iconic honeycomb of stone vessels filled with colored dyes, offer a glimpse into traditional leather-making methods unchanged for centuries.
Atlas Mountains
For golfers seeking adventure between rounds, the nearby Atlas Mountains provide opportunities for hiking, visits to Berber villages, and even skiing in winter at Oukaïmeden resort. A day trip to these majestic mountains offers a refreshing contrast to coastal or desert golf experiences.
Moroccan Hospitality and Cuisine
The legendary Moroccan hospitality, or “terheeb,” enhances every golf trip. Course staff typically offer a level of attentiveness and personal service increasingly rare in more commercialized golf destinations. From the warm mint tea welcome at many clubhouses to the knowledgeable caddies eager to share local insights, visitors consistently find the human element of Moroccan golf particularly memorable.
Culinary experiences further distinguish a Moroccan golf vacation. After a round, players can indulge in traditional tagines—slow-cooked stews named for the conical earthenware vessels in which they’re prepared. Fresh seafood dominates coastal menus, while Marrakech offers sophisticated dining scenes ranging from traditional to fusion cuisine. Many golf resorts feature restaurants that skillfully blend Moroccan flavors with international standards, though the most authentic experiences often come from venturing beyond resort boundaries into local establishments.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
Morocco’s appeal as a golf destination has been significantly enhanced by improved accessibility and infrastructure developments. The country is served by direct flights from major European cities with flying times of just 3-4 hours from London, Paris, or Madrid. From North America, connections through European hubs or direct flights to Casablanca make the journey manageable.
Once on the ground, Morocco offers a well-developed tourism infrastructure supporting golf travelers. Modern highways connect major cities and golf destinations, while a high-speed rail line links Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca. Luxury accommodations, from international brand hotels to atmospheric riads, provide options for every preference.
Language barriers are minimal at golf facilities and tourist areas, where staff typically speak French and increasingly English in addition to Arabic. This multilingual environment makes Morocco particularly accessible for international visitors compared to some other emerging golf destinations.
Emerging Golf Culture
While Morocco doesn’t share the centuries-old golfing heritage of Scotland or England, it has been developing its own distinct golf culture since the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam opened in 1971. Today, the country hosts professional tournaments including the Trophée Hassan II and Lalla Meryem Cup, attracting international competitors and media attention.
The Moroccan government has recognized golf tourism as a strategic sector, supporting development through its “Vision 2020” tourism plan. This has spurred investment not just in courses and facilities but in golf education programs aimed at building a skilled workforce and developing local talent. Several clubs have established golf academies with junior programs, gradually expanding the sport’s reach beyond tourists and expatriates to nurture a new generation of Moroccan golfers.
Sustainable Golf Development
Increasingly, Morocco’s newer golf developments are addressing environmental considerations critical in a region where water conservation is essential. Modern courses employ sophisticated irrigation systems, often utilizing recycled water. Many new designs incorporate native vegetation requiring minimal irrigation beyond natural rainfall.
Assoufid Golf Club in Marrakech exemplifies this approach, having been recognized for its environmental practices. The course utilizes drought-resistant native plants for landscaping areas beyond playing surfaces and employs a sophisticated irrigation system that minimizes water usage while maintaining excellent playing conditions.
Practical Considerations for Golf Travelers
For golfers planning a Moroccan adventure, several practical considerations can enhance the experience:
When to Visit
October through May offers ideal golfing conditions throughout the country. Summer golf remains viable, particularly in coastal areas, but early morning tee times are advisable to avoid afternoon heat, especially in inland locations like Marrakech.
Regional Focus
Rather than attempting to play courses throughout the country in a single trip, focusing on specific regions creates a more relaxed experience. Marrakech, with its concentration of excellent courses and cultural attractions, makes an ideal base for first-time visitors. The Agadir region offers a coastal alternative with its own collection of noteworthy courses.
Local Customs
Morocco is a Muslim country with conservative traditions, particularly outside tourist areas. While golf resorts operate much like their counterparts worldwide, respectful attire is appreciated when venturing beyond resort boundaries. During Ramadan, some services may operate on modified schedules, though tourist facilities generally maintain normal operations.
Course Selection
Visiting golfers should consider their playing abilities when selecting courses. The championship layouts at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam or Mazagan can challenge even accomplished players, especially in windy conditions. However, most destinations offer multiple courses with various difficulty levels, often including more forgiving options for higher-handicap players.
Beyond the Established Golf Hubs
While Marrakech and Agadir represent Morocco’s most developed golf destinations, adventurous players might explore emerging areas adding new dimensions to the country’s golf landscape:
Tangier and the Mediterranean Coast
The northern Mediterranean coast, long overlooked by golf developers, has seen recent growth with courses like Royal Golf Cabo Negro and the spectacular Tangier Royal Golf Club offering Mediterranean views and proximity to the historic port city of Tangier. This region’s cooler climate makes it particularly appealing for summer golf.
Ouarzazate and the Desert Frontier
For truly adventurous golfers, the Royal Golf Ouarzazate provides an otherworldly experience on the edge of the Sahara Desert. While not matching the championship caliber of Morocco’s coastal courses, its unique setting—where fairways of green contrast dramatically with the surrounding desert landscape—creates an unforgettable round. The nearby Atlas Film Studios, where movies from “Gladiator” to “Game of Thrones” scenes were filmed, adds another dimension to the experience.
Conclusion: A Unique Golfing Frontier
What ultimately distinguishes Morocco as a golf destination is its unique combination of world-class courses, year-round playability, remarkable value, and immersive cultural experiences impossible to replicate elsewhere. While Scotland may claim golf’s heritage, and destinations like Spain and Portugal offer established golf tourism infrastructure, Morocco provides something entirely different—a golfing adventure that transcends the sport itself.
For the traveler seeking more than just another checkmark on their list of played courses, Morocco offers rounds that become part of a broader cultural journey. When the final putt drops, the experiences have only begun. Whether haggling for treasures in ancient souks, watching the sunset paint the Atlas Mountains in golden hues, or savoring tagine after a challenging round, Morocco transforms a golf trip into a multidimensional adventure.
This North African kingdom, with its ancient cities and forward-looking vision for golf development, has established itself not merely as an alternative to Europe’s golf destinations but as a compelling choice in its own right—a place where the game’s challenges and pleasures are magnificently enhanced by the rich cultural tapestry surrounding the courses. For the golfer seeking new horizons, Morocco awaits, clubs at the ready and mint tea steeping.