Volunteer in Morocco

35+ Years Experience

IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.  We accept volunteers from all over the world and place them in meaningful overseas missions.  

Affordable Volunteer Travel

Morocco is a North African country known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural blend of Arab, Berber, and European influences. From the winding medinas of ancient cities to the vast Sahara Desert and the rugged Atlas Mountains, Morocco offers a breathtaking mix of tradition and natural beauty.
The country has seen strong growth in tourism and urban development, yet many rural communities continue to face social and economic challenges. Volunteers play an important role in bridging these gaps, offering support in education, health, and community projects while experiencing Morocco’s warm and welcoming spirit.

Mandarin Chinese is the official language, though dozens of other dialects and minority languages are spoken across the country. Religion in China is varied, including Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Christianity, and traditional folk beliefs, although religious practice is often closely monitored. Public transport is generally efficient, especially in major cities, and high-speed trains connect many regions. While China has embraced modern technology, customs such as Confucian respect for elders and community still play an important role in daily life.

Morocco’s climate is varied, depending on the region. Along the coast, including Rabat, you’ll find a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Inland areas, such as Marrakech, tend to be hotter in summer and cooler in winter. In the Atlas Mountains, the weather is much cooler and can even bring snow in the winter months, while the Sahara Desert is hot and arid year-round. The best times to visit for volunteering are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are most comfortable.

Morocco’s culture is a vibrant blend of Arab, Berber, and French influences, shaped by centuries of history and trade. From the bustling souks filled with colourful textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods, to the melodic call to prayer echoing through ancient medinas, Moroccan life is rich in tradition.

Hospitality is at the heart of the culture—guests are warmly welcomed with mint tea, and sharing meals is seen as a way of building community. Music and dance, such as Gnawa rhythms and Andalusian melodies, add to the country’s lively spirit, while festivals and religious celebrations highlight the deep connection between faith and daily life. This unique mix of heritage and modernity gives Morocco a captivating and diverse cultural identity.

Rabat, Morocco’s capital, is a relaxed yet fascinating city on the Atlantic coast. It’s less chaotic than Marrakech but still full of character, with a UNESCO-listed medina, historic kasbahs, Andalusian gardens, and a stunning seafront. As the political and administrative hub of Morocco, Rabat blends modern infrastructure with traditional culture, making it an ideal location for volunteers to live and work.

You will be staying in local accommodation in Morocco. Please refer to individual programs for more info.

Food in Morocco is a highlight of the experience! Known for its aromatic spices and rich flavours, Moroccan cuisine combines sweet and savoury in unique ways. Staples include tagine (a slow-cooked stew), couscous with vegetables or meat, and harira (a hearty soup often eaten during Ramadan). Street food like sfenj (Moroccan doughnuts) or grilled kebabs make for quick, tasty bites. Meals are often shared, reflecting Morocco’s communal and family-oriented culture.

After being picked up, you will be taken to your accommodation in Rabat, where our team will guide you through the schedule for the next few days, including introductions to staff, fellow volunteers, and people at the center.

Placement Orientation:
Your orientation is led by our friendly local staff and begins on the morning of your chosen start date. This session will cover everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Morocco, including an introduction to Moroccan culture and customs, program rules and expectations, travel opportunities within the country, and details about your specific project and placement. Orientation is also a great chance to get to know other volunteers, exchange contact details, and start planning weekend trips and social activities together.

Getting around Morocco is generally straightforward. In cities like Rabat, petit taxis (small, metered taxis) are a cheap and easy way to travel short distances, while grand taxis cover longer routes between towns. Morocco also has a reliable train network linking major cities, as well as buses for budget-friendly intercity travel. For rural volunteering locations, transport may be less frequent, but shared taxis and minibuses are common options.

Things to Do in Rabat

• Wander through the Kasbah of the Udayas, a blue-and-white old fortress with stunning ocean views.
• Explore the medina for traditional crafts and local life.
• Visit the impressive Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
• Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens for a peaceful escape.
• Relax on Rabat’s beaches, popular with locals.

Things to Do Further Afield

• Take a day trip to Marrakech, famous for its bustling souks and historic palaces.
• Visit Chefchaouen, the picturesque “Blue City” in the Rif Mountains.
• Trek in the Atlas Mountains for breathtaking views and traditional Berber villages.
• Experience the Sahara Desert on a camel trek and spend the night in a desert camp.
• Discover the coastal city of Essaouira, known for its laid-back vibe and artsy atmosphere.

Would you like to raise money in order to afford your trip abroad to volunteer? Or perhaps you would like to set up a funraiser to gain enough money to give as a donation to the local project? Crowd funding is a great way to do this. Read this article on Crowdfunding tips to find out how you can raise funds for your trip.