Plan a Morocco Wedding Full of All Things Breathtaking

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They say wedding photos are one of the few items from your day you keep forever. The photos from a Morocco wedding? They're something else.

Wedding destinations in Morocco are diverse—from the desert to the Atlas mountains. And then there's the architecture of Marrakech, a bustling city dotted with luxury hotels recently named one of the best destination wedding locations. Looks can be deceiving, but a Moroccan wedding is genuinely one of a kind.

Beyond its magical aesthetics, Morocco is heaven on a plate for foodies. Many cherished Moroccan wedding traditions​ revolve around cuisine, from grilled chicken with saffron sauce and lamb tagine to whole sheep and a dessert table full of creamy, deep-fried, fragrant goodness.

A Morocco wedding ceremony and reception can be memorable for you and your guests. However, planning a far-flug affair requires some extra legwork. For instance, you may need to primarily communicate with your Morocco wedding venue coordinator virtually.

The adventure of planning is well worth it for the memories you'll make that will be enshrined in those photos. To help make planning a Moroccan wedding memorable (in the best way), we've put together a guide to top locations and venues. We'll also provide practical budgeting tips, obtaining a marriage license in Morocco and finding and communicating with pros from an ocean away.

Morocco Wedding Planning Tips in this Article:

• Why Couples and Wedding Guests Love Morocco Weddings
• The Best Wedding Locations in Morocco
• Top Morocco Wedding Resorts and Venues
• Morocco Wedding Legal Requirements
• Morocco Wedding Planning Tips

Why Couples and Wedding Guests Love Morocco Weddings

Wedding sites in Morocco are diverse—desert, mountains and cityscapes are all in the cards. "From breathtaking venues like elegant riads, desert camps and coastal retreats to the charm of unique Moroccan traditions, Morocco's photogenic locations make for incredible wedding photos, and travelers can combine their celebration with a romantic honeymoon," says Zahira Benhenia, an Elsewhere by Lonely Planet local expert in Morocco.

The diversity is certainly a calling card, but another wedding planner adds that fetes in Morocco have a (stunning) signature aesthetic. "One of my favorite things about weddings in Morocco is the architecture," says Kay Northrup, the founder & CEO of Kay Northrup Events. "You can look at someone's wedding pictures and right away be able to tell that they're in Morocco just because of that horseshoe arch or charming riad. It's so distinct in its architectural beauty, which really stands out as a wedding backdrop."

It's also a prime location for the trending set-jetting destination wedding. Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Morocco, starred as the city of Yunkai in the TV series Game of Thrones.

The series was a work of fiction—Moroccan cuisine? That's a real-life foodie fantasy, and you can incorporate favorite dishes into a wedding menu for the books. Signing the party up for a Moroccan cooking class is another way to keep guests entertained (and serves as a non-traditional but top-notch favor or souvenir they'll use for a lifetime).

Pro tip: Invite a destination wedding travel expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Vendor Marketplace for Morocco wedding expertise, group hotel blocks, flight arrangements and more.

The Best Wedding Locations in Morocco

Wedding sites in Moccorco offer quite a range. It's hard to beat a spectrum of waterfront settings and deserts. And that's before you mix in the opulence of Morocco's cities and Atlas Mountain vistas. The range leaves plenty of options for planning a wedding against your dream backdrop, but where? These locations exemplify the diversity of the North African country and are worthy of consideration.

Marrakech

Home to a major airport, it's hard to compete with the convenience of Marrakech. It's also challenging to one-up the glamour that blends centuries-old splendor with contemporary grandeur. Benhenia calls it a "top choice for luxury weddings," pointing to the myriad of riads, palaces and gardens that will give your wedding upscale appeal. Benhenia also notes that it's a fitting wedding destination in Morocco for intimate and grand, multi-day affairs. Guests will delight in souk visits, hammam experiences (including right within hotels) and excursions, some of which a planner or event coordinator with your venue can help arrange. Hotel La Mamounia and Villa Taj are two of Benhenia's recommended wedding venues in Marrakech.

Taghazout

If your vibe is more laidback, consider Taghazout. Benhenia says the Atlantic coast fishing village is one of the waterside destinations in Morocco. And it fits the "chill" bill. Found near Agadir, Benhenia says it's perfect for beach weddings. Ocean vistas and sunshine are year-round features. Paradise Valley's palm-lined beaches feel especially like a (welcome) escape from the bustle of everyday life. While relaxing on a beach is certainly in order, activities like swimming, surfing, sand boarding and sunset camel riding mix in opportunities for adventure.

Casablanca

Fans of the 1942 Oscar-winning classic film Casablanca are no strangers to this Moroccan city. Now one of the North African country's top tourist destinations, it also has an airport that adds travel convenience. The port city is loved for its Atlantic Ocean views and to-write-home-about ​​Mauresque architecture that combines Moorish and European art deco styles to perfection. Hassan II Mosque exemplifies this architecture and is a place people can visit, regardless of religion (other mosques in Casablanca only permit Muslims). La Corniche is a prime spot for taking in coastal sites and sounds.

Agafay Desert

Want to separate yourself from the tried, true (and totally beautiful) beach and city destination and local weddings you and your guests have attended over the years? A desert celebration is off the beaten path, and an Agafay Desert is truly one of a kind. Fewer than 20 miles from the happening city of Marrakech, Agafay boasts a quieter, nature-driven version of a beautiful backdrop. Benhenia loves the idea of a romantic, under-the-stars ceremony with sweeping dunes adding more elements of interest to a backdrop. The camps offering ceremonies often have tent accommodations for an authentic desert experience. Exhibit A: Atlas Mountain-framed Scarabeo Camp, which Benhenia double taps.

Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains

Ourika Valley offers proximity to Ait Ben Haddou, should you and your guests want to see the Game of Thrones filming location. But for some, views (and chances to hike) of the Atlas Mountains provide more than enough breathtaking experiences. Benhenia calls the mountain backdrops stunning, and this location is postcard-perfect for "nature-loving couples seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility." Willow trees and colorful rocks (red and green) make pictures pop. Exploring the waterfalls and forested hills are other ways to incorporate nature-based fun into your wedding week or weekend itinerary. The spot isn't far from Marrakech (about 37 miles), making it relatively easy to touch down at the airport and reach your wedding destination in Morocco.

Pro tip: As you consider Morocco wedding locations, don't forget about your newlywed vacation. Plan an amazing Morocco honeymoon, too, with our complete guide.

Top Morocco Wedding Resorts and Venues

Once you've determined your destination, you'll want to key into wedding venues in Morocco. Five-star luxury may come at a six-figure price tag, but affordable resorts for a Morocco wedding are also available. Yes, affordability is relative. However, built-in services to Morocco wedding packages—offered by some venues—can help streamline costs and planning. Or, you may prefer to go more a la carte. As with backdrops, you have options.

Royal Mansour Marrakech

If five-star luxury and bustling city are part of your wedding day love language, Royal Mansour Marrakech is like a hug (on 1,000 thread-count sheets). Not far from the airport, the boisterous Jemaa el-Fnaa and Marrakech's Medina, the hotel is like an accessible escape. You'll have access to a charming garden or grand riad with a roof terrace and swimming pool for a Morocco wedding ceremony and reception. Nuptials here are bespoke affairs, with event specialists and chefs refining details, including floral design and cuisine to your tastes. All the while, you and your future spouse can sit back and indulge in spa treatments at the on-site hammam (spa). Casablanca couples are in luck—the hotel has a location there, too.

Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa is a spacious retreat and a 10-minute walk from the surf, sand and sun of Taghazout Beach. Yet, you and your guests can enjoy the exclusive feel of the resort's private beach. Four pools, multiple restaurants, tennis courts and an on-site spa will keep people plenty entertained without stepping foot off the property. The staff takes a customized approach to weddings, offering help arranging personalized catering, entertainment and spa services. Venues include a beachfront spot and a grand ballroom.

Kasbah Bab Ourika

Consider Kasbah Bab Ourika, a boutique hotel by the Atlas Mountains and Andre Heller Garden, for a remote feel. A favorite of Benhenia's, weddings tap into natural beauty with spaces overlooking the Atlas Mountains and lush valley landscapes. After the Morocco ceremony and reception, guests can retreat to cozy rooms with fireplaces and terraces that give way to jaw-dropping Atlas Mountain views. Suites have sitting rooms and pools—ideal for sleeping and getting-ready fun. Between parties, the staff can help arrange spa services at the hotel and off-site picnics and excursions, such as to salt mines.

Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa

Another Benhenia recommendation, Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa's spot by a sandy shore plays right into the laidback luxury it's known for. Ditto for the bungalow and villa accommodations that make plenty of space for gathering and mingling with friends and family throughout your stay. Exchange vows right on the beach beneath a flower-adorned wood arch or under a Berber tent for a quintessential Morocco wedding ceremony. The hotel can accommodate up to 200 guest receptions, though smaller parties are more than welcome. Services include assistance with catering, florals, photography, video and transportation.

Pro tip: Once you've decided on your Morocco wedding venue, send out destination wedding save-the-dates with important info so your guests can book the time off and start thinking about travel plans.

Morocco Wedding Legal Requirements

Choosing between dreamy locations and mouthwatering cuisine is equal parts challenging and fun. However, couples will want to pay close attention to an important logistic: Ensuring their Morocco wedding is legal. "Getting legally married in Morocco as a US citizen is possible but requires a time-consuming and complex process," Benhenia says.

Morocco wedding planners can help couples navigate the process of getting their marriage licenses in Morocco​​. The US Embassy & Consulates in Morocco also has a wealth of important information. Below, Benhenia explains what to expect during the process (and an easier way to ensure your marriage is legal).

Legal Weddings vs. Symbolic Weddings

Benhenia says couples can host a legal or symbolic wedding in Morocco. Either is beautiful, but the difference is important. "A legal wedding is an officially recognized marriage that requires documentation, legal procedures and government registration," Benhenia says. "In Morocco, getting legally married involves navigating complex bureaucracy, especially for foreign nationals, including religious requirements, paperwork from both countries and a series of approvals from Moroccan authorities."

The complexities can tack on several to-dos. As a result, Benhenia says that many international couples choose a symbolic wedding. "A symbolic wedding is a non-binding ceremony that allows couples to celebrate their union without the legal paperwork," Benhenia says.

If you go this route, you'll get married in the US, such as at your local town hall, before heading to Morocco. Benhenia says this approach allows people to enjoy every moment of the culture and beauty and nixes the legal hassle.

Required Legal Documents

If you have your heart set on making your marriage legal in Morocco, you can. You'll want to understand the correct steps, starting with the documents you'll need to gather before you can get a marriage license in Morocco.

According to the US Embassy, you'll need:

• Affidavit of Nationality and Eligibility to Marry notarized and signed by the US Consulate (valid for six months from the signing and notarization date)
• A passport with your bio page and the page with your entry date into Morocco
• Certified copy of divorce paperwork proving the previous marriage is dissolved (if applicable)
• Previous partner's death certificate (if applicable)
• Original or certified copies of your birth certificates
• Evidence of employment or source of income in the US
• A written statement detailing your intention to get married in Morocco
• Morocco resident card (if applicable)
• Moroccan police records from the Ministry of Justice in Rabat (for Moroccan and US citizens) and US police records
• A medical certificate certifying you're in good health—it must be from a Moroccan doctor.
• A notarized statement showing religious denomination or a certified copy of a document showing you converted to Islam (men only. Adds Benhenia, "Moroccan law requires non-Muslims to convert to Islam if marrying a Muslim partner.")

Benhenia says all of these documents must be translated into Arabic and certified by the Moroccan authorities.

Legal Marriage Timeline

You'll want to gather the necessary documents and have them translated. If necessary, Benhenia says that the non-Muslim member of the couple must convert to Islam through a Moroccan religious authority. Once those logistics are squared away, Benhenia says the next steps are to:

• Submit documents to the local Adoul (Marriage Notary)
• Sign the marriage contract in person after it's reviewed
• Obtain final approval from Moccan authorities ("The marriage contract must be approved by the Family Court and registered with Moroccan civil authorities," Benhenia says.)

While in-person meetings with local authorities are required, getting legally married in Morocco does not require official residency.

Legal Marriage Cost

Couples can expect to pay 150 Moroccan Dirham (about $15 USD) to submit a marriage application. Couples will also need to pay to get their documents certified. Obtaining a marriage certificate—which proves the marriage is legal, unlike the license that permits you to wed—can cost between 200 to 600 Moroccan Dirhams ($20 to $60 USD).

Morocco Wedding Planning Tips

The legal process can be complicated, but the rest of your planning doesn't have to be—even from afar. From transportation to weather and working with vendors, these top tips will make executing your vision for a Morocco wedding as easy as an ocean breeze.

How to Get to Morocco

Morocco is in North Africa, but don't let that intimidate you. It's home to a trio of major airports: Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech, and US couples can get direct flights there. People traveling from New York City can touch down in Casablanca in under seven hours, and those flying in from Miami have an under-eight-hour direct flight. West Coast couples and guests should plot for more time in the air—around 14 hours or more with a layover.

Major cities offer public transportation, such as buses and trains. Taxis are another popular mode of transportation. Rental cars are often the best option for exploring more remote areas, such as deserts.

Best Months to Marry in Morocco

The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) have the mildest weather and manageable crowds. In the spring, you'll enjoy lush flora in the backdrop of photos. Summer brings high heat and tons of tourists, though coastal spots benefit from ocean breezes. The prices are also typically scorching.

"The high season for weddings in Morocco usually runs from June to the end of August, but months from March to June and September to November are also busy periods," Benhenia says.

Winters can be cold, especially in the mountains, though couples might score significant deals.

Morocco Wedding Venue and Vendors

Vetting wedding vendors and venues can require some extra legwork for international couples who don't have the same access to word-of-mouth referrals from family and friends as people saying "I do" locally. And, you may be the first of your friends and family to host a Morocco wedding, something perhaps people getting married in a Caribbean celebration might not be able to say.

Still, technology has made the process easier. Northrup says social media and digital portfolios are a great place to start. Reviews, such as from Google, can also give you an idea of what it's like to work with a pro, including quality of work and reliability.

Benhenia suggests working with a destination management company (DMC). These pros act as connectors between couples and local pros. They're especially helpful when there are language or cultural differences.

"A DMC ensures seamless coordination, from managing transportation and accommodations to securing unique and tailormade experiences," Benhenia says. "Building strong relationships with vendors is key, [and] a trusted partner will offer more personalized service and go beyond basic requests."

For help pinpointing potential Morocco wedding venues and vendors, use The Knot Vendor Marketplace. You'll find a comprehensive list of travel specialists with expertise in destination weddings.

Budgeting Tips

The destination wedding cost in Morocco runs the gamut—Northrup and her team have planned some of the lowest-cost and most expensive weddings here.

"For exclusive, high-end events in luxury venues like riads, hotels or desert camps, costs can exceed $50,000 to $200,000," Benhenia says. "More intimate weddings, especially in rural areas or smaller towns, can be arranged for around $20,000 to $30,000." Those prices are on par—and even a bargain—compared to many in Europe and in the US.

Currency rates can affect the final price tag. Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). One MAD is about 10 cents in the US—very favorable for US couples. Northrup recommends not stressing too much about daily fluctuations and instead proactively building in an extra 1% to 3% into your budget should the rate be on the higher end when it's time to pay.

Benhenia recommends exchanging currently at local banks, exchange offices and hotels. "The best rates are typically found at local exchange offices in major cities. It's advisable to avoid exchanging money at airports, as they tend to offer less favorable rates," Benhenia says. "For larger expenses, it's better to use bank transfers to avoid handling large amounts of cash."

Beyond the mode of payment and currency, couples can save money by booking off-peak dates (usually November to February). The duration and vendors you choose can also raise or lower costs. "Opting for a one-day celebration instead of a multi-day event can also reduce costs, particularly for venues, catering and entertainment," Benhenia says. "Since alcohol can be pricey in Morocco due to local regulations, offering a limited bar with select drinks instead of a full open bar can help manage your budget."

Group transportation and accommodation packages can also streamline planning and budgeting. Choosing local entertainment provides value beyond the sticker price. "Booking local entertainment, such as Moroccan musicians or dancers, provides authentic experiences at a reasonable cost compared to bringing in artists from abroad," Benhenia says.

Pro tip: Set up a free destination wedding website on The Knot with all the event details, including your Morocco wedding itinerary, things to do, guest travel information, RSVPs and more.