Travel to and from Spain: Morocco’s Neighbouring countries
Flights from Spain reach several Moroccan cities, including Casablanca, Marrakech and Fez. Ceuta and Melilla are special as they are on mainland Morocco but independent Spanish territories and part of the EU. Passports are checked by border guards at the border to the city.
How to get to and from the Canary Islands
Known for their beautiful beaches and party atmosphere, these Spanish islands are closer to Morocco than mainland Spain. There are daily flights to the Canary Islands from Agadir, Casablanca and Marrakech. Passport requirements are the same as for mainland Spain.
Travelling to and from Gibraltar in the United Kingdom
Exploring Western Sahara: Morocco’s Neighbouring Countries
Although an ongoing struggle for independence creates an unstable environment, Morocco controls most of Western Sahara. Since 1991 there has been a ceasefire. There are no travel restrictions imposed by the United States or the United Kingdom. The sparsely populated parts of the Sahara can be crossed by experienced travellers with common sense. Organised tours may be the safest way to travel, although it is possible to travel in a private vehicle in many areas. However, please note that many areas require escorting by the Police. If asked to stop, politely comply.
One passport is required to enter Western Sahara for Americans, Canadians and Europeans.
Morocco’s Neighbouring countries: Crossing the border into Mauritania
CAUTION: Although there are currently no restrictions on Western visitors travelling to Mauritania, the country can be unstable, with a high risk of terrorist activity, civil unrest and landmines. Do not venture far from populated areas and register with your country’s embassy in Nouakchott on arrival. Of all the options for travel to and from Morocco’s neighbouring countries, this is probably the one that requires the most planning.
Although Mauritania is not for the inexperienced traveller, those who are prepared to take extra precautions can experience a vast desert country with ancient cities and a warm welcome. Spend time in cities closer to Morocco, avoiding the country’s borders with Algeria and Mali: Atar, Chinguetti, Nouadhibou and Nouakchott, the capital.
Flights from Morocco to Mauritania depart from Casablanca. By road, cars can cross the border between Western Sahara and Mauritania, although independent travellers should negotiate with local guides who have an understanding of the often-changing border conditions. Sometimes without warning, the land border is closed. Visiting Morocco’s Neighbouring countries
Note: If you have looked at a map, you will have noticed that Morocco shares a long land border with Algeria. This land border between Morocco and Algeria has been closed for several decades. The two governments are still in dispute over the Western Sahara. US State Department also advises against travel in parts of Algeria because of ongoing violence.
Consider travel to and from Morocco’s neighbouring countries when planning your Moroccan adventure! It can make a lot of sense to maximise your time in this part of the world, especially if you’re flying in from further afield, such as Australia, New Zealand or North America. Morocco’s Neighbouring countries
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