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Morocco To Boost Game Hunting Tourism
Game hunting in Morocco generates over MAD 1.2 billion per year with 80 000 Moroccans and 3,000 tourists participating in the sport annually.
Rabat - The Moroccan High Commission for Water and Forestry and the Fight Against Desertification plans to promote hunting tourism in Morocco, using it as a tool for rural development.
According to Abderrahim Houmy, the Secretary General for the commission, hunting has real social-economic potential
Approximately 3000 tourists per year currently come to hunt in Morocco and the commission wants to increase this number to 15,000 by 2024, Houmy stated at the annual Game Fair in Lamotte-Beuvron, France, held between June 14 and 16.
For Chafik Jilali, the president of the Moroccan Royal Hunting Federation, Morocco is a prime destination for hunting tourism.
“Morocco is very close to Europe. It already has accommodation infrastructure on par with that of Europe. We also have good transport networks, including airports in the south of the country for tourists wanting to hunt in that area,” he told Morocco World News.
Diversity of game is also an asset. Hunting game includes wild boar, hare, rabbit, partridge, and water birds. The commission has set up hunting reserves across the country.
To increase the amount of tourists engaging in the sport, a number of investments will have to be made, noted Houmy at the Game Fair.
“Hunting is not just about the game, it’s also about accommodation, transport, culture, local produce, gastronomy...A real promotional effort must be made,” he added, as quoted by Moroccan newsource Media24.
Around 80, 000 Moroccans also practice recreational hunting in Morocco, which generates over MAD 1.2 billion ($125.6 million) per year in revenue.
According to Houmy, a hunter spends on average MAD 15,000 ($1570) on the sport, taking into account transport, accommodation and other costs. The direct revenue from hunting permits and license taxes reached MAD 43.5 million (approximately $4.5 million) last year, up 4.5% from 2017.
Houmy adds that hunting also plays an important role in rural employment. For the 2017/2018 season, hunting generated 995,000 days of permanent work and 213,000 days of temporary work according to the commission.
Houmy was not available for further comment on the proposal.
Morocco’s participation at the Game Fair was a step towards promoting hunting opportunities to an international audience, so opening up the sector.
The Game Fair is the largest hunting trade show in France, bringing over 80,000 visitors. Morocco attended the event for the first time this year, as guest of honour. The Moroccan pavilion displayed information on the country’s game, gastronomy, and culture to attendees.
Coastal Hunting in Morocco: Hunting Seasons and Timing, Regulations and Licensing, Required Documents and Procedures, Tips for Hunters
Morocco’s coastal regions offer unique hunting opportunities, blending diverse wildlife with stunning landscapes. However, successful hunting here requires strict adherence to local regulations, seasonal restrictions, and ethical practices. This guide covers hunting seasons in Morocco’s coastal areas, regional rules, licensing, and expert tips to maximize your experience.
1. Hunting Seasons and Regional Regulations in Coastal Morocco
Hunting in Morocco’s coastal regions is strictly regulated to balance wildlife conservation with the country’s rich hunting traditions. The main hunting periods typically run from September to February, but the exact dates depend on the game species and local climate conditions. Coastal areas, with their milder winters, often allow for slightly extended hunting seasons compared to inland regions. The Moroccan High Commission for Water and Forests sets the annual hunting calendar, taking into account factors such as climate, landscape, and wildlife migration patterns. Waterfowl hunting peaks during migration from October to December, while small game and wild boar seasons may extend into early spring in some areas. Recent reforms have tightened regulations, shortening some seasons to protect endangered species and introducing stricter enforcement against poaching. It’s important to consult the latest official guidelines before planning your trip, as dates and permitted species can change annually.
The main hunting periods in Morocco’s coastal regions are:
Waterfowl (ducks, geese): October–January
Wild boar: September–February (in some areas, year-round with special permits)
Small game (rabbits, partridges): September–December
2. Seasonal Patterns and Game Activity
Game activity in coastal Morocco is closely tied to seasonal changes and migration cycles. Waterfowl hunting is best during the migration peak from October to December, when ducks and geese flock to the region’s wetlands and lagoons. Wild boar are active from September through February, with some areas permitting year-round hunting due to their status as agricultural pests. Small game such as rabbits and partridges are most abundant from September to December, especially during early mornings and late afternoons when animals are feeding and moving about.
Morocco’s coastal hunting season is celebrated through various festivals and events that bring together hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most notable gatherings is the Agadir Hunting Fair, held annually during peak hunting months, where experts discuss sustainable practices, showcase hunting gear, and organize guided expeditions. Local communities also host traditional hunting competitions, particularly for wild boar and waterfowl, blending sport with cultural heritage. These events not only promote ethical hunting but also support wildlife conservation efforts, making them a must-attend for anyone passionate about Morocco’s coastal hunting traditions.
3. Restrictions and Protected Species in Coastal Morocco
Morocco enforces strict protections for endangered and vulnerable species. The houbara bustard and Barbary stag are strictly off-limits, and hunting is banned during nesting and breeding seasons (March–August) to protect wildlife during critical periods. In some areas, only male wild boars may be hunted to support population growth. Hunters must adhere to bag limits and are required to use legal hunting methods—certain traps and baits are prohibited. Additionally, hunting is not allowed in national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, and violations can result in severe penalties.
4. Obtaining a Hunting License in the Region
To hunt legally in Morocco’s coastal regions, hunters must possess a valid Moroccan hunting license, which is issued by the High Commission for Water and Forests or the Ministry of Agriculture and Maritime Fisheries. Required documents include a valid passport, a Moroccan hunting permit, and a firearm import permit if bringing your own gun. Hunters may also need specific permits for certain species or regions. Many hunters work with local clubs or licensed outfitters, such as the Royal Moroccan Federation of Hunting (FRMC) and the Association des Chasseurs du Maroc (ACM), which can assist with permits, guided hunts, and compliance with all legal requirements.
5. Penalties for Violating Hunting Periods in Coastal Morocco
Violating hunting regulations in Morocco’s coastal areas can result in fines of up to $2,000, confiscation of firearms and equipment, and even legal action such as hunting bans or imprisonment for repeat or serious offenses. The government has increased surveillance and enforcement in recent years, especially in response to poaching and illegal hunting activities. Hunters are urged to stay updated on the latest regulations and comply fully to avoid severe consequences.
6. Tips for Timing, Gear, and Hunting Strategies
For the best results, plan waterfowl hunts during the migration peak (November–December) and target wild boar in the early season (September–October) when they are most active. Essential gear includes lightweight camouflage, waterproof boots for wetlands, and bird calls for waterfowl. Use decoys near wetlands to attract ducks and geese, and employ still-hunting techniques in forested areas for wild boar. Working with reputable local guides ensures compliance with regulations and increases the chances of a successful, ethical hunt.
Hunting Seasons in Dakhla Desert: Regulations, Permits, and Time for Hunting, Documents and Organizations
The Dakhla Desert, part of Morocco’s vast Western Sahara, offers a unique hunting experience with its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Understanding the official hunting periods, game seasons, and legal requirements is crucial for a successful and lawful hunt. This guide covers hunting seasons in Dakhla Desert, including licensing rules, best hunting periods, restrictions, and expert tips to maximize your experience.
1. Official Hunting Periods in Dakhla Desert
Hunting in the Dakhla Desert is subject to strict Moroccan regulations aimed at sustainable wildlife management and conservation. The general hunting season typically runs from October to March, coinciding with cooler temperatures and higher animal activity. The exact dates can vary each year based on ecological assessments and conservation needs set by Moroccan authorities, particularly the Agence Nationale des Eaux et Forêts (National Agency for Water and Forests). The desert’s extreme heat restricts hunting to the cooler months, while migratory bird species are only present during specific times, usually in autumn and early winter. Compared to neighboring regions like Mauritania, Dakhla’s hunting seasons are shorter and subject to stricter bag limits and seasonal bans to protect endangered species and prevent overhunting.
The main hunting periods in Dakhla Desert are:
Large game (gazelles, Barbary sheep): November–February
Small game (desert hares, foxes): Active year-round, but best from December–February
Migratory birds (ducks, sandgrouse): October–December (migration peak)
2. Game Seasons and Wildlife Behavior
Wildlife in the Dakhla Desert displays distinct seasonal patterns. Large game such as gazelles and Barbary sheep are best hunted from November to February, when they gather near scarce water sources. Small game like desert hares and foxes remain active throughout the year but are easier to track in the cooler months of December to February. Migratory birds, including ducks and sandgrouse, are present in significant numbers from October to December, aligning with their migration periods. Peak animal activity is observed during early mornings and late evenings, as most species avoid the intense midday heat. The Dorcas gazelle, for example, is especially active at dawn.
The Dakhla Desert hosts several hunting festivals and seasonal events, the most notable being the Dakhla Hunting Festival, held every January, which attracts hunters from across North Africa and beyond. This event celebrates traditional desert hunting with competitions, cultural displays, and guided expeditions, offering participants a chance to experience local customs while adhering to sustainable practices. Additionally, regional hunting clubs and conservation groups organize seasonal gatherings, workshops, and tracking tours during peak hunting months (November–February), providing hunters with expert insights into the desert’s unique ecosystem. These events not only promote ethical hunting but also support wildlife conservation efforts in the region.
3. Legal Limits and Seasonal Bans in Dakhla Desert
Strict legal limits are enforced in the Dakhla Desert to protect vulnerable species and manage hunting pressure. The Scimitar Oryx and Addax are strictly protected and cannot be hunted. For certain species like Barbary sheep, only male specimens may be taken, and hunting during the breeding season (April–June) is prohibited. There is a full hunting ban in the summer months (July–September) due to extreme heat and to support wildlife conservation efforts. Hunters must also comply with annual bag limits and are required to use legal hunting methods, as some techniques (e.g., baiting, certain traps) are regulated or banned.
4. Licensing Requirements and Application Process
To hunt legally in the Dakhla Desert, hunters must obtain a valid Moroccan hunting license, which is issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Maritime Fisheries or the Agence Nationale des Eaux et Forêts. A firearm permit is required if hunting with guns, and foreign hunters must also have a guided hunt contract. Additional permits may be needed for certain species or for transporting trophies out of the country, especially if the species is protected. Key organizations involved include the Royal Moroccan Federation of Hunting (FRMC), the Dakhla Hunting Club, and the Sahara Wildlife Conservation Society, which promote ethical hunting and conservation.
5. Fines and Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance in Dakhla Desert
Violating hunting regulations in the Dakhla Desert can result in heavy fines (up to $5,000 or more), confiscation of firearms and equipment, and potential imprisonment for repeat or serious offenses. Hunters who exceed bag limits, target protected species, or hunt outside the legal season face severe penalties, including loss of hunting privileges.
6. Strategic Planning, Timing, Equipment, and Locations
For the best hunting experience, target Oued Ed-Dahab for gazelles and the Dakhla Peninsula for migratory birds. Essential gear includes lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime heat, high-powered optics for long-range spotting, and reliable 4x4 vehicles for navigating desert terrain. The most effective tactics are to hunt near waterholes at dawn and to use local guides for tracking elusive species. Booking guided hunts and permits well in advance is recommended due to limited quotas and high demand.
