How to Avoid High Roaming Charges in Morocco : The Complete Guide
- 11 September 2025
Table of Contents :
- What is roaming and how does it work in Morocco?
- Why are roaming charges so high in Marrakech?
- Alternatives to traditional roaming
- Rentaphone.ma: The revolutionary solution for Marrakech
- How to book your WiFi router
- Summary of analyzed solutions
- Why Rentaphone.ma stands out as THE solution
- Final recommendation
Introduction :
What is roaming and how does it work in Morocco?
Definition of roaming
Roaming is a service that allows you to use your mobile phone abroad by automatically connecting to local operator networks. When you arrive in Marrakech with your French, Belgian, or Swiss phone, it automatically connects to Moroccan networks like Maroc Telecom, Orange Maroc, or Inwi.
How it works in Morocco
In Morocco, roaming generally works well thanks to modern telecommunications infrastructure, particularly developed in major cities like Marrakech. The three main Moroccan operators offer extensive coverage:
- Maroc Telecom (IAM): Historical leader with the best national coverage
- Orange Maroc: Orange Group subsidiary, excellent service quality
- Inwi: Modern operator with competitive offers
Automatic or manual activation
Most European operators automatically activate roaming upon your arrival in Morocco. However, it can be deactivated in your phone settings to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Why are roaming charges so high in Marrakech?
Prohibitive operator pricing
Depending on your operator, this can cost you between €3 and €15.40 per MB. These exorbitant rates are explained by several factors:
Expensive inter-operator agreements European operators must pay significant fees to Moroccan operators for using their networks. These costs are then passed on to consumers with substantial margins.
Lack of price regulation Unlike European Union countries where roaming is regulated, Morocco is not subject to these restrictions, allowing operators to apply free pricing.
Data volume billing Each megabyte (MB) is billed individually, which can quickly increase the bill with normal use of applications like WhatsApp, Google Maps, or Instagram.
Hidden and additional fees
Tiered billing Even if you consume 0.1 MB, you often pay for a full 1 MB, creating invisible but significant additional costs.
Charged incoming calls Unlike domestic calls, receiving calls while roaming in Morocco is charged, even if you don’t answer in some cases.
Surcharged SMS Sending a simple SMS from Marrakech can cost between €0.50 and €2, compared to a few cents in France.
Impact on travel budget
For a week-long trip to Marrakech with moderate usage (checking emails, social networks, GPS), the roaming bill can easily reach €200-300. With intensive usage (streaming, photo sharing, video calls), it can exceed €500, sometimes representing 20-30% of the total trip budget.
Alternatives to traditional roaming
International packages from operators
Temporary travel packages Most European operators offer special packages for abroad. The operator provides two possible “passes” to choose from according to your needs: an “Evasion 1” pass for €29 total for 31 days.
Advantages:
- Simple activation
- Keep your usual number
- Predictable billing
Disadvantages:
- Limited data volumes
- Still high rates
- Restrictions on certain applications
Local Moroccan SIM cards
Availability and prices Prepaid SIM card prices vary between 20 and 300 Moroccan dirhams depending on the operator and chosen package, approximately €2 to €30.
Sales points in Marrakech:
- Marrakech-Menara Airport
- Operator shops in city center
- Shopping centers (Carré Eden, Al Mazar Mall)
- Gas stations
Advantages:
- Very competitive costs
- Count around €30 for a 7-day package with unlimited data
- Optimal network quality
Disadvantages:
- Requires unlocked phone
- Sometimes complex configuration
- Loss of usual number
eSIM cards
Modern technology Prices start around €4 to €5, making it an economical alternative to local SIMs or European roaming packages.
Advantages:
- Fast and dematerialized installation
- Keep your main SIM
- Competitive rates
- No physical manipulation
Disadvantages:
- Only compatible with recent phones
- Requires internet connection for activation
- Sometimes limited customer support
Free public WiFi
Availability in Marrakech Free WiFi is widely available in Morocco in hotels, riads, cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers.
Main locations:
- Hotels and riads
- Cafes and restaurants
- Shopping centers (Carré Eden, Al Mazar Mall, Menara Mall)
- Marrakech-Menara Airport
- Majorelle Gardens
- Certain public squares
Advantages:
- Completely free
- Wide availability
- No configuration required
Disadvantages:
- Speeds fluctuate considerably, particularly during peak hours
- Limited security
- Restricted geographical coverage
- Dependence on places offering the service
Rentaphone.ma: The revolutionary solution for Marrakech
Introduction to Rentaphone.ma
Rentaphone.ma revolutionizes internet access for travelers in Marrakech by offering high-performance portable WiFi router rental. This innovative solution combines all the advantages of traditional alternatives while eliminating their major disadvantages.
Technical service features
High-performance routers
- High-speed 4G/LTE connection on Moroccan networks
- 8-12 hours continuous use battery life
- Simultaneous connection up to 10 devices
- WiFi range of 10-15 meters
- Informative LCD screen (battery level, signal, data)
Network coverage
- Partnership with three major Moroccan operators
- Optimal coverage throughout Marrakech
- Excellent signal in medina, Gueliz, and Hivernage
- Guaranteed operation in main tourist sites
Included data
- Flexible packages from 1 GB to unlimited data
- Download speeds up to 150 Mbps
- No restrictions on applications or websites
- Possible renewal during stay
Unique advantages of Rentaphone.ma
Maximum security Unlike public WiFi, your private router offers a WPA2 encrypted connection, protecting your personal and banking data.
Total mobility Take internet everywhere with you: in the souks, during Atlas excursions, or while visiting historical monuments.
Family sharing A single router can connect all family devices: smartphones, tablets, laptops.
Local customer support French-speaking team based in Marrakech, available during your active hours to resolve any technical issues.
Practical rental terms
Online booking
- Secure website with credit card payment
- Booking possible up to 2 hours before pickup
- Immediate confirmation by email and SMS
Pickup points
- Marrakech-Menara Airport (terminal 1 and 2)
- Hotel or riad delivery (premium service)
- Partner agencies in city center
Transparent pricing Payment is made in Moroccan dirhams (MAD), at the daily rate. Don’t worry, the amount remains equivalent to what is displayed in euros.
Return terms
- Return required before departure flight
- Return to airport or hotel collection service
- 24/7 secure deposit boxes
How to book your WiFi router
Step 1: Planning Before the trip :
- Visit rentaphone.ma website
- Select your travel dates
- Choose your data package according to your needs
- Indicate your preferred pickup location
Step 2: Online booking
- Fill out the form with your travel information
- Select options (delivery, insurance, etc.)
- Proceed with secure credit card payment
- Receive your confirmation by email with all details
Step 3: Pickup (At the airport)
- Complete kit delivery (router, charger, user manual)
- Quick test to verify proper operation
Step 3: Pickup (Riad / Hotel delivery)
- Flexible delivery time slots
- free delivery
Step 4: Usage (Simple configuration)
- Turn on the router (power button 3 seconds)
- Connect to WiFi network displayed on screen
- Enter provided password
- Browse internet immediately
Step 5: Return
Summary of analyzed solutions
We explored five main alternatives to traditional roaming:
- International packages: Intermediate but still expensive solution
- Local SIM cards: Economical but constraining (number change)
- eSIM cards: Modern but limited compatibility
- Free public WiFi: Free but unreliable and unsecure
- Portable WiFi router rental: The optimal solution
Why Rentaphone.ma stands out as THE solution
After comprehensive comparative analysis, renting a portable WiFi router from Rentaphone.ma presents the best quality-price-practicality ratio:
Substantial savings: Up to 95% savings compared to traditional roaming Maximum simplicity: One device for the whole family or group Guaranteed security: Private encrypted connection, personal data protection Total mobility: Internet everywhere, even in the most remote places Local support: French-speaking assistance based in Marrakech Package flexibility: Options adapted to all usage profiles
Final recommendation
For any trip to Marrakech lasting more than 2-3 days, we strongly recommend renting a portable WiFi router from Rentaphone.ma. This revolutionary solution transforms your travel experience by eliminating connectivity-related stress while preserving your budget. Don’t wait for billing surprises when you return from your trip. Take control of your connectivity now!
FAQ
Does the router work everywhere in Morocco?
How many devices can I connect?
Up to 10 devices simultaneously (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.). Speed remains optimal with 3-5 active devices.
Is the router secure?
Yes, each router has a unique password and uses WPA2 encryption. Your data is protected unlike free public WiFi.
Can I use the router for voice calls?
The router only provides internet connection. You can make calls via WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, or any other VoIP application.
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