Inclusive Morocco: queer tourism and inclusivity in the heart of Morocco

Inclusive Morocco is a tourism initiative aimed at providing queer travelers with safe, respectful, and welcoming experiences throughout Morocco. The platform offers tailored travel services, including accommodations, curated tours, and cultural activities, all with sensitivity to LGBTQ+ needs and concerns. By partnering with inclusive hotels, guides, and local organizations, Inclusive Morocco seeks to foster environments where queer travelers can explore the country’s landmarks, cuisine, and traditions without fear of discrimination. The initiative also provides resources and information on local customs and the legal landscape affecting LGBTQ+ visitors.

Operating primarily in urban centers such as Marrakech, Casablanca, and Tangier, Inclusive Morocco emphasizes both privacy and community for guests. The organization connects travelers with queer-friendly establishments and social spaces, as well as allies within the local population. In addition to travel planning, Inclusive Morocco conducts cultural workshops and awareness campaigns to promote inclusivity within the broader Moroccan hospitality sector. Through these efforts, the initiative aims to support both travelers and local queer communities while expanding Morocco’s reputation as an inclusive tourism destination..

Inclusive Morocco, founded in 2020 by Bilal El Hammoumy and Rania Chentouf, is the first travel agency in Morocco run by openly queer people. Born in Tangier, this initiative offers an innovative approach to tourism in a country where homosexuality is still criminalized under Article 489 of the Penal Code. Inclusive Morocco combines exploration of local beauty with a deep commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, promoting tourism that is not only sustainable, but also ethically revolutionaryo.

Tourism as a tool for social inclusion

The agency stands out for the direct support to Moroccan queer communities. and for collaboration with Local activities run by LGBTQ+ people. Through the involvement of a team composed entirely of Moroccans, Inclusive Morocco creates authentic itineraries that combine the discovery of local culture with the economic support of small businesses and artisans. Each tour is designed to provide memorable experiences that focus on values such as inclusivity and authenticity.

Among the most popular experiences are:

• Surfing in Essaouira, on the Atlantic coast.
• Cooking classes in Bhalil, a village known for its traditional cave houses.
• Stays in riads and workshops in traditional crafts, such as Moroccan majolica work.

For 2024, the agency will launch itineraries designed for families, demonstrating its ability to adapt to different needs and offer experiences accessible to all.

A model of resilience in a complex context

Despite legal and social difficulties, Inclusive Morocco has managed to carve out a meaningful space for itself. Bilal El Hammoumy and Rania Chentouf chose to openly declare the company’s queer identity, despite the risks. This decision stemmed from a strong sense of responsibility to the LGBTQ+ community., with the goal of showing that change is possible.

The society also, supports small local NGOs and strives to build cultural bridges, demonstrating that tourism can be a means of breaking down barriers. “Our journey is not just about breaking down borders: it’s about building bridges,” says El Hammoumy.

Why choose Inclusive Morocco

Booking a trip with Inclusive Morocco means not only discovering the beauty of the country, but also contributing to a project that enhances the local economy and promotes social acceptance. The experiences offered are an invitation to explore Morocco from a different perspective, celebrating its cultural diversity and supporting those fighting for a more equitable and welcoming future.