Should we travel to Morocco?
It’s a personal choice but we would of course love to see you. Life in Marrakech is recovering quickly and yes… there’s some rubble in places but this is a city whose core energy and vitality is irrepressible. Recovery in areas most affected by the earthquake will take significantly longer of course but please remember that Morocco relies on tourism. So many families are dependent on it in so many ways.
Can I cancel my stay?
We of course understand that you may wish to postpone your stay if you were due to arrive this week. Until Sunday 17th September, we will be offering vouchers for you to reschedule your holiday. Please contact [email protected] who will be able to help further.
Is the airport affected?
No. The airport is operating as usual.
How are the roads around Marrakech?
The roads are operating normally.
And what is the situation in the medina?
There is certainly damage in the medina. Some buildings have collapsed and there is still rubble in places. But the clear up operation is happening quickly and key areas like the souk and Jemaa el Fna are fine. If you would like to visit the souks we recommend the use of one of our local guides. We are able to arrange this for you.
Are tourist attractions open?
All key sites, including the Koutoubia Mosque and Jardin Majorelle, are open as normal. The only exceptions are the Bahia and Badi palaces which are currently closed awaiting structural checks. They are due to open by Monday 18th September.
And how is the area around Marrakech?
In areas including the Ourika Valley and Agafay Desert, camps, activities and hotels are all open as usual. But the epicentre of the earthquake was in the Atlas Mountains and many villages there have been severely affected. Because of that, it’s not advisable to visit the area as a tourist.
How can we help?
If you are coming to stay and would like to bring a physical donation, we are co-ordinating items to be transported to the Atlas villages most in need. These include paracetamol and ibuprofen, salt replacements such as dioralyte, hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes, head torches and bandages. Please don’t bring clothes or food.
Alternatively, you can make a financial donation.
You can donate direct to the Moroccan Government.
For people living in Morocco wanting to send relief contributions, you can do so on account number 126 at the following:
RIB: 001-810-0078000201106203-18
For people outside of Morocco, you can make a donation via electronic transfer using the following details:
IBAN: MA64001810007800020110620318
We also work closely with two international organisations providing relief directly to those that have been greatly affected in the mountains.
The Eve Branson Foundation has worked in the High Atlas Mountains since 2005 and has close links with local communities. Aid will go directly to those most in need via an appeal created for earthquake victims.
Or, if you prefer a larger scale operation with international infrastructure there is also The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Published on 13th September 2023
