How Large Is Morocco? A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Size, Geography, and Land Area

When travelers and geography lovers think about Morocco, they imagine the colorful souks of Marrakech, the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and the endless dunes of the Sahara Desert. But beyond its beauty, a question often arises: How large is Morocco?

The answer shows that Morocco is one of the biggest and most diverse countries in Africa, covering a land area larger than many European nations. Its size explains its variety of landscapes, climates, and cultures. In this guide, we’ll explore Morocco’s total area, its comparison with other countries, its geography, and why its landmass is so important.

Morocco’s Total Area: Kilometers and Miles

Morocco covers a huge territory in North Africa. Its size changes slightly depending on whether you include the disputed territory of Western Sahara.

Recognized Morocco (without Western Sahara):
446,550 km² (172,410 sq mi)
Morocco including Western Sahara (administered by Morocco):
710,850 km² (274,460 sq mi)

This means Morocco is almost twice as large when Western Sahara is included. Either way, Morocco remains one of the largest countries in Africa and the Arab world.

Where Does Morocco Rank in the World by Size?

Morocco (with Western Sahara) is the 57th largest country in the world.
In Africa, it ranks 11th in size, behind countries like Algeria, Sudan, and Libya.
In the Arab world, Morocco is among the top 10 largest countries by land area.

Morocco Compared to Other Countries

To understand Morocco’s true size, let’s compare it with some famous countries and regions:

Bigger than Spain: Morocco is larger than Spain (505,990 km²).
Almost double the UK: The United Kingdom (243,610 km²) is about half the size of Morocco.
Similar to France + Germany together: France (551,695 km²) plus Germany (357,021 km²) equals 908,716 km², which is close to Morocco’s size including Western Sahara.
Larger than California and Texas combined: Together, these U.S. states cover 695,662 km², which is smaller than Morocco (with Western Sahara).
Slightly smaller than Alaska: Alaska (1,723,337 km²) is more than double Morocco, but Morocco is still huge compared to most U.S. states.

Geography of Morocco

Morocco’s size allows it to host a wide range of natural landscapes. Its territory is divided into several geographic zones:

1. Coastal Plains

Morocco has a long coastline of 1,835 km (1,140 mi).
To the west: Atlantic Ocean.
To the north: Mediterranean Sea.
Coastal cities: Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir, Essaouira.
These areas are fertile and home to Morocco’s main economic centers.

2. The Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains stretch across Morocco from southwest to northeast.

High Atlas Mountains: Includes Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa (4,167 m / 13,671 ft).
Middle Atlas Mountains: Known for cedar forests and cities like Ifrane.
Anti-Atlas Mountains: Rocky landscapes leading into the Sahara.

3. The Sahara Desert

The Moroccan Sahara is part of the world’s largest desert.
Famous desert towns: Merzouga, Zagora, Erfoud.
Tourists visit for camel trekking, desert camps, and sand dunes like Erg Chebbi.

4. Rif Mountains

Located in northern Morocco near the Mediterranean coast.
Known for green hills, fertile valleys, and towns like Chefchaouen.

5. Western Sahara

A large desert territory, partly administered by Morocco.
Vast, flat, and sparsely populated.

Morocco’s Climate and How Size Affects It

Because Morocco is so large, it has multiple climates:

Mediterranean Climate: Northern coastal areas (Tangier, Tetouan).
Atlantic Climate: Western coast (Casablanca, Rabat, Essaouira).
Mountain Climate: High Atlas and Middle Atlas with snow in winter.
Desert Climate: The Sahara region with hot days and cold nights.

This variety is why you can ski in the mountains and ride camels in the desert in the same week.

Population Density in Morocco

Morocco’s size also affects how people are spread out:

Population (2024 estimate): 37 million people.
Most people live in the north and along the Atlantic coast.
Cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez are crowded.
The Sahara region is very sparsely populated.

Population density:

Average: 82 people per km².
But in the Sahara, it can be less than 1 person per km².

Morocco’s Size and Economy

Morocco’s large territory plays an important role in its economy:

Agriculture: Fertile plains allow Morocco to produce wheat, olives, citrus fruits, and argan oil.
Tourism: Diverse landscapes (deserts, mountains, beaches) attract over 13 million tourists annually.
Natural Resources: Morocco is the world’s largest exporter of phosphates.
Trade: Morocco’s location between Europe and Africa makes it a strategic hub.

Morocco’s Strategic Location

Morocco sits at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Just 14 km from Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Access to both the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.
This location has made Morocco historically important for trade and culture.

Fun Facts About Morocco’s Size

Morocco is almost the size of California + Oregon + Washington combined.
You can drive from Tangier in the north to Lagouira in the south (Western Sahara) for more than 2,000 km (1,243 mi).
Morocco is larger than all of the British Isles combined.
It takes more than 20 hours by car to cross Morocco from north to south.

Key Statistics: Morocco at a Glance

Total area: 710,850 km² (with Western Sahara)
Recognized area: 446,550 km² (without Western Sahara)
Coastline: 1,835 km
Highest point: Mount Toubkal – 4,167 m
Population: 37 million (2024)
World ranking by size: 57th

Conclusion

So, how large is Morocco?

Morocco spans 446,550 km² without Western Sahara and 710,850 km² with Western Sahara. That makes it bigger than Spain, almost twice the size of the UK, and larger than California and Texas combined.

Its impressive size explains Morocco’s diverse climates, landscapes, and cultures. From the fertile plains and snowy Atlas Mountains to the endless Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a richness few countries in the world can match.

For travelers, this means endless opportunities: beaches, mountains, deserts, and historic cities. For Moroccans, it means a land full of natural resources, agriculture, and strategic importance.

In short, Morocco is not just large—it is a world within one country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What makes Moroccan cuisine unique?
A1: Moroccan cuisine is famous for its rich blend of spices like saffron, cumin, and cinnamon, combined with fresh vegetables, meats, and fruits. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it stand out worldwide.

Q2: What are the must-try Moroccan dishes?
A2: Some of the most popular Moroccan dishes include tagine, couscous, pastilla, harira soup, rfissa, and Moroccan mint tea. Each dish represents a part of Morocco’s culture and traditions.

Q3: Is Moroccan food healthy?
A3: Yes. Moroccan food uses fresh vegetables, legumes, olive oil, and lean meats. Many traditional recipes are Mediterranean-style, making them both healthy and flavorful.

Q4: What is the national dish of Morocco?
A4: Couscous is widely considered the national dish of Morocco. It’s often served with vegetables, meat, and a flavorful broth.

Q5: What is Morocco best known for in travel?
A5: Morocco is known for its colorful souks, Sahara Desert adventures, Atlas Mountains, imperial cities like Marrakech and Fes, and UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Aït Benhaddou.

Q6: When is the best time to visit Morocco?
A6: The best time to visit Morocco is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing.

Q7: Are Moroccan people friendly to tourists?
A7: Yes, Moroccan people are known for their hospitality and warm welcome. Tourists often describe the Moroccan culture as generous, respectful, and friendly.

Q8: What souvenirs should I buy in Morocco?
A8: Popular Moroccan souvenirs include handmade rugs, argan oil, spices, ceramics, leather goods, and traditional jewelry.

Q9: Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco?
A9: Many nationalities, including the US, Canada, and most EU countries, can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check current visa requirements before travel.

Q10: Is Morocco safe for tourists?
A10: Yes, Morocco is generally safe for travelers. Like any destination, it’s best to stay cautious in crowded areas and respect local customs.

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