Scuba diving in Morocco

One of the best places to scuba dive in Morocco is the coastal city of Agadir, which serves as the country’s main diving hub. The area offers a variety of dive sites suitable for different experience levels, with rocky reefs, sandy bottoms, and occasional underwater caves. One of the most popular sites near Agadir is Taghazout Bay, known for its clear water and abundant marine life. Divers here commonly encounter moray eels, stingrays, octopuses, cuttlefish, and large schools of fish moving along the reef structures.

Further south, Dakhla offers a more remote and adventurous diving experience. Located along the Atlantic coast, this region is less developed for tourism, which means dive sites are quieter and more pristine. Stronger currents and deeper dives make Dakhla especially appealing to experienced divers, with chances to see rays, larger pelagic fish, and dramatic underwater landscapes.

Essaouira is another notable dive destination, characterized by its rugged coastline and historical maritime setting. Diving here often includes rocky reefs and wreck remnants, with marine life adapted to the cooler Atlantic waters. Casablanca, while primarily known as a major city and port, also offers several dive opportunities, particularly for wreck diving and training dives close to shore.

The cost of scuba diving in Morocco varies depending on the location, the dive center, and the type of dive. In general, a single dive typically starts around $40 USD and can increase based on factors such as boat dives, equipment rental, or guided experiences. Beginner certification courses, such as Open Water Diver programs, usually range from $350 to $500 USD, depending on what is included. Many dive centers offer discounted packages for multiple dives or combined training courses, which can provide better overall value. Taking the time to research and choose a reputable dive center helps ensure both safety and a good fit for your budget.

<h3>Certification & Training Options</h3>
Morocco is a suitable destination for both first-time divers and those looking to continue their scuba education. Most established dive centers offer internationally recognized certifications, making it easy for travelers to start or advance their diving journey while visiting the country.

Commonly available programs include Discover Scuba Diving experiences for beginners who want to try diving without committing to a full course, Open Water Diver certifications for new divers, and Advanced Open Water Diver courses for certified divers looking to improve their skills. Some dive centers also offer specialty courses such as deep diving, navigation, or rescue diver training, depending on location and conditions.

Instruction is typically available in English and French, with many dive centers also offering courses in Spanish and Arabic, especially in popular tourist areas like Agadir and Taghazout. This makes Morocco accessible for a wide range of international travelers.

Course duration varies by certification. Discover Scuba Diving programs usually take half a day, while Open Water Diver courses generally last 3 to 4 days, including theory sessions, confined water training, and open-water dives. Advanced courses are often completed in 2 days, making them easy to combine with a short holiday.