How to Eat Vegan in Morocco: A Complete Traveller’s Guide
Vegetable couscous I enjoyed on a rooftop in Fes on a Friday. Moroccan’s traditionally eat couscous on Friday’s.
Travelling as a vegan in Morocco can feel daunting at first. Meat is a big part of Moroccan cuisine, and you’ll often see lamb or chicken piled high in the markets. But here’s the secret: many traditional Moroccan dishes are naturally plant-based, and with a little preparation, Morocco can be a vegan foodie paradise.
After travelling across the country - from Marrakech’s busy souks to the blue streets of Chefchaouen - here’s everything you need to know about eating vegan in Morocco.
Traditional Moroccan Dishes That Are Vegan
Vegetable Tagine
A Moroccan staple. Slow-cooked vegetables with olive oil and spices. Order without meat or fish.
Couscous with Vegetables
Friday lunch tradition - just confirm it’s served without meat broth.
Harira Soup (Vegetarian Version)
Tomato, lentils, chickpeas, herbs. Often served during Ramadan. Ask for no meat.
Zaalouk
Eggplant and tomato dip, rich and smoky. A must-try appetiser.
Lentil & Bean Stews
Hearty, filling, and often vegan by default.
Khobz (Moroccan Bread)
Always fresh, always vegan. Served with almost everything.
Fresh Salads & Olives
Simple but delicious sides. Always check salads are made fresh.
Vegetable tagine in Morocco.
Vegan by Destination in Morocco
Marrakech
Earth Café (well-known vegan/vegetarian café).
Ayaso Concept Store (organic café with vegan options).
👉 Tip: Many restaurants in the medina are flexible… just ask for vegetable tagine without meat.
Fes
Vegan cafe options are harder to find, but stick to traditional veg tagine and lentil soups.
Riad restaurants often cater to dietary needs if you book ahead.
👉 Tip: The best vegan meal of my life was in a Riad in Fes!
Chefchaouen
Casa Aladdin (veg-friendly with stunning views).
Fresh juices, falafel, and veg tagines are common here.
👉 Find out Why Chefchaouen Deserves a Spot on Your Moroccan Bucket List
Sahara Desert
Desert camps will usually serve couscous, tagine, and fresh salads - just let them know you’re vegan in advance.
Mint tea in Morocco is also vegan.
Tips for Travelling Vegan in Morocco
Re-phrase: If words like vegan and plant based are not understood, try saying “without meat” or “without eggs”.
Communicate in advance: Let riads and tour companies know your diet.
Pack snacks: Dates, nuts, and energy bars are easy to find and handy for long journeys.
Be understanding: Locals may not fully understand what vegan means. Eg. Some dishes may have been cooked in meat broth - clarify politely.
Be smart with breakfast: Accommodation buffet breakfasts may not be vegan friendly. Find a nearby cafe with plant-based options.
FAQs About Vegan Travel in Morocco
Is Morocco vegan friendly?
Yes - many dishes are naturally plant-based, but you’ll need to double-check ingredients.
What’s the hardest part about being vegan in Morocco?
Avoiding hidden animal products like meat broth or butter in couscous.
Can I find vegan restaurants in Morocco?
Yes, especially in Marrakech and Chefchaouen. In smaller towns, most have plant-based options - stick to vegetable tagines, lentils, and bread.
What snacks should I buy as a vegan?
Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit are perfect for long drives and hikes.
Eating vegan in Morocco isn’t just possible, it’s delicious. With fresh produce, naturally plant-based dishes, and a growing number of vegan-friendly cafés, Morocco can be a surprisingly easy destination for vegans once you know what to order.
👉 Planning your trip? Grab my Ultimate Morocco Guide (with a 14 day itinerary included) and check out my Food Lover’s Guide to Morocco Cuisine to start mapping out your dream itinerary.