Car hire / Self-driving

We've hired a 4x4 self drive out of Marrakesh, dropoff in Agadir. Yes there is a lot of driving but we will have had 4 days trekking. Is there a difficulty about not having a "local driver"? and is there a security issue about camping "wild"? Your reply prompts these questions. What are snow conditions like at the mo. In 2006 we waded through thigh-high snow!
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Self-driving in Morocco is fine. It's the most flexible choice and the one that will enable you to drive pretty much anywhere you want to in the country. However, driving in Morocco requires constant vigilence (as can be seen from the photo!) and distances will take far longer to drive than for similar distances on European motorways or autoroutes. Do not underestimate these factors in your overall planning.

Diesel costs are reasonable (at the time of writing just over 7 dirham / around 70 euro cents per litre) so this compensates for the long distances you may end up driving.

Make sure your are satisfied with the mechanical condition of the car before you leave, that there is both a spare tyre and the capabilities to change a wheel in the event of a puncture (!) and that any pre-existing bumps and scrapes are noted and agreed. Also make sure you have an emergency contact number to use in case the car does break down….

If driving at night, accept that you will encounter numerous unlight cyclists, donkey-drawn carts and a general attitude as regards personal safety that would been seen as "irresponsible" in Europe!

Lastly, the police are really keen on extracting fines for speeding - particularly in the 60kph zones - so beware! Getting fined is expensive and if you don't have the cash on you, your licence will be taken from you, entailing a visit to the police station the next day..... All this in French.

Camping wild is generally ok. Issues are proximity to villages / settlements. Children will come and stare at you for ages and again be vigligent for any light-fingeredness. Best to camp as far away from villages as possible and to use bottled water for drinking.

Lastly - snow conditions are light for this time of year - unless something happens you definitely won't be doing any wading!