Last Updated: September 27, 2023
We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragedy caused by the devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the Atlas Mountains in Morocco on Friday, September 1, 2023. We continue to stand united in prayer for Morocco, for the victims and their families, and for those who are providing immediate relief and support.
On-the-Ground Updates
Together with our Morocco travel partner, we are continuing the assess the situation on the ground. Each and every one of our drivers in Morocco has been contacted, and they assured us that they and our clients are all doing well. Our Morocco travel partner has been calling all the different riads and hotels to assess the safety of the staff and the impact of the earthquake. We are grateful that none of the staff were hurt. The accommodations in Marrakech that we use do not seem to be impacted, but some of the accommodations in the Atlas Mountains and near Ouarzazate have reported some damage.
Damages in Marrakech
This earthquake was Morocco’s strongest in over a century. The earthquake’s epicenter was near the town of Ighil in the Al Haouz Province. The main impact devastated the mountainous areas and rural villages to the south, about 75 km (50 miles) southwest of Marrakech.
The earthquake has caused widespread destruction of many cultural heritage and historical sites. Many buildings in Marrakech’s old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 12th century, have been damaged. The earthquake cracked and crumbled parts of the famous red wall surrounding the old city. There are reports of major damage done to the Koutoubia Mosque, which is one of Marrakech’s best-known historic sites. The Jewish synagogue and Jewish cemetery in Marrakech were also damaged. Other historic sites including the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and Kasbah Tamadot are temporarily closed.
Impact on Tourism in Morocco
All Moroccan airports including the Marrakech Airport remain open. Several sources claim that the roads and ground transportation are back to normal in Marrakech. Currently, tours to Morocco are proceeding as the vast majority of sites in the country are not impacted. We are making changes to any tour itinerary affected as a result of the damage in Marrakech and the High Atlas Mountains. We will continue to make changes as needed to our Morocco tour itineraries in accordance with the situation on the ground.
Get In Touch With Us
If you have booked a Morocco tour with Mosaic North Africa in the coming weeks, we should have already contacted you with an update on the developing situation.
If you are thinking of visiting Morocco, but feeling unsure about how the Marrakech earthquake situation might impact your decision, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@mosaicnorthafrica.com. One of our travel experts will respond to your questions within 24 hours.
