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Morocco Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, morocco - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Morocco due to  terrorism .

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Morocco.

If you decide to travel to Morocco:

  • Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Morocco.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now? Latest travel advice

Morocco has a lot to offer travellers but there are some safety considerations to bear in mind. here’s what you need to know.

travel guidance for morocco

M orocco as a holiday destination holds huge appeal for Brits. With a flight time of around three hours and just an hour’s time difference, it’s a short haul option that offers endless variety at often incredibly affordable prices. In cities like Marrakesh and Rabat, magnificent examples of Arabic architecture can be found in mosques, schools and historic sites, while expansive souks offer up the equivalent of Aladdin’s cave, filled with trinkets, carpets and hand-made furniture. A bohemian vibe permeates its west coast, especially in Essaouira, where surfers flock for the reliable waves and affordable hotels. And then there are the mountains and desert for those looking for adventure. The earthquake in the Atlas Mountains in September 2023 has deterred some tourists, but there are still plenty of reasons to visit. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: kitesurfers on the beach in Essaouira (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Morocco?

The UK Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of Morocco. However, it does state that terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks, particularly in crowded areas, against government buildings, transport networks, and businesses with Western interests, and in areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather.

You should stay vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.

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• Best hotels in Morocco • Best hotels in Marrakesh

A visitor takes a selfie at the Bahia Palace in Marrakesh (Getty Images)

Has Morocco been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Geographically speaking Morocco is very far from Israel so it’s not directly affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

At the end of December 2020, Israel and Morocco also signed a normalisation agreement, which means both nations recognise each other’s sovereignty and are committed to establishing normal diplomatic relations.

However, within Morocco there is significant support for Palestinians with rallies taking place in the capital Rabat. The Foreign Office advises avoiding any kind of political protests.

• Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now?

Street life in the imperial city of Meknes (Alamy)

Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

There’s no reason not to travel to Morocco, but there are some safety considerations to bear in mind.

Although there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals, the UK Foreign Office warns that this cannot be ruled out in advice that also applies to other countries in northern Africa. The threat comes from terror groups from Libya, Mauritania, and the Sahel, who use it for financial or political gain.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and drive-by motorcycle theft are common in Morocco, particularly in tourist areas such historic quarters and beaches. There have also been occasional reports of violent crime where weapons such as knives have been used against tourists in street attacks and burglary. The Foreign Office advises avoiding quiet areas after dark and not to carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat (Alamy)

Which areas were affected by the earthquake?

Close to 3,000 people died in Morocco after a devastating earthquake hit a remote area of the Atlas Mountains on September 8, 2023. Most of the deaths and injuries occurred in the mountain villages, which are often remote and difficult to access.

In Marrakesh, the nearest tourist hub, some buildings collapsed or were damaged as a result of the earthquake. Most of the damage was in the medina, a Unesco world heritage site and the oldest part of the city. Many of the buildings here are historic, and were not built to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes.

Agadir and Essaouira also experienced some superficial damage to buildings but were otherwise unaffected by the earthquake.

The country is, however, open to tourism, and the income from tourism is certainly appreciated by those affected by the earthquake.

• Best riads in Marrakesh • Best villas in Morocco

What are Morocco’s entry requirements?

British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Morocco for the purpose of tourism, and they can stay for up to 90 days. To stay for longer than 90 days, request an extension at a local police station.

Your passport should be valid for at least three months on the day you enter Morocco. Your passport should not be damaged as otherwise you may be refused entry. You should also make sure your passport is stamped on entry, as you may experience difficulties leaving.

A visitor at a night market stall in Djemaa el-Fna, the main square in Marrakesh (Getty Images)

Is Morocco safe for female travellers?

Morocco is generally considered safe for female travellers, especially in holiday resorts.

However, if you’re travelling alone, you may receive unwanted attention from men. The Foreign Office advises wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms, legs and chest.

• What can women do to stay safe while abroad?

Is Morocco safe for LGBTQ travellers?

Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco, although it remains a popular destination for LGBTQ travellers. The Foreign Office advises against public displays of affection, which may cause offence and lead to prosecution.

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? Latest advice

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Morocco Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Traditional sandstone buildings along the ridge of a slope in beautiful Morocco

Chaotic. Colorful. Eye-opening. Visiting Morocco is an intense experience. My time there was challenging, but it was also a reminder that the best part of travel is embracing the uncomfortable.

Once part of the Carthaginian Empire, the first independent Moroccan state emerged around 225 BCE as the Berber kingdom of Mauretania. That kingdom eventually became a Roman province, though, by the 7th century CE, Muslim conquest of North Africa was in full swing. A French Protectorate from 1912-1956, Morocco gained its independence in 1956 and has been an independent state ever since.

I loved my time in Morocco. I gorged on couscous, drank my body weight in mint tea, hiked, and absorbed the hectic sights and sounds of the country.

From the high Atlas Mountains to the desert to the coasts, Morocco is a marvelous country that mesmerizes. True, the sprawling and disorderly medinas can test your patience, but they reward your senses each and every visit.

Use this Morocco travel guide to plan your trip, see the best the country has to offer, save money, and avoid the common pitfalls that waylay unsuspecting travelers!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Morocco

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in morocco.

Camels strolling along the huge, golden dunes in beautiful Morocco on a bright, sunny day in the desert

1. Explore Marrakesh

Spend some time in the Djemaa el-Fna, where you can find exotic street performers, tattoo artists, musicians, and chefs. After that, wander around the medina, explore the souks, eat in the market, see the old city, and enjoy Morocco’s most international city. Marrakesh has it all.

2. Sleep in the Sahara Desert

The Sahara is vast, empty, and spectacular. Spending the night in a simple tent on the dunes was my favorite activity while in the country and I highly recommend you try it too. The stars go on forever and there’s no light pollution to block them out. (Skip the camel ride, though!)

3. Explore the blue streets of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a small city located in the middle of the Rif Mountains. It is very relaxed, offers reasonable accommodations, and is visually stunning as the streets and buildings are all painted a vibrant sky blue (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram). It’s a great place to wander, shop, and sip mint tea.

4. Visit Fez

This old and powerful city is one of the best places in the country. Its narrow streets are filled with wonderful aromas, mosques, craft shops, and crowds upon crowds of people. Though Fez can be a bit overwhelming, once you get used to the pace of the city, it’s simply magical.

5. Relax in a traditional hammam

A hammam is a steam bath popular in North Africa. They are usually found near mosques or toiletry shops and can be upscale or public (traditional). Visit a no-frills traditional bath for an authentic and enlightening experience. Public hammams cost about 10 MAD, while hotel hammams cost 300-500 MAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Morocco

1. get lost in the medinas.

The medinas are the historic hearts of each city in Morocco, part residential area, part shopping center, part food market. Shops, restaurants, markets, and homes all line the twisting and turning streets in buildings seemingly too close together and too old to stay up much longer. As someone who loves to get lost, the medinas were heaven. Word of caution: The Fez Medina is a bit unsafe, so do not go too far off the beaten path. Stick to streets with lots of people or hire a guide to show you around.

2. Trek the High Atlas

The rugged and beautiful Atlas Mountains stretch over 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles), from the West Coast of Morocco all the way to Tunisia. This mountain range is home to Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s tallest peak at 13,671 feet. You can hike all year round, but the best time is from April to May. The Toubkal Circuit (7 days) and M’Goun Traverse (3 days) are some of the more popular treks.

3. Trek through the Todra Gorge

Located near Tinerhir in the High Atlas Mountains, this gorge is one of the most recognized in the world and has become very popular with travelers looking to hike the canyon. It’s a challenging hike and takes around 4 hours but if you’re looking for something truly different and outdoorsy in Morocco, don’t miss out on this. For an even more unique experience, skip the day trip and stay overnight in the nearby village of Ait Baha.

4. Visit the Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque, located in Casablanca, is a huge mosque with a minaret that stands 60 stories. It’s the second-largest mosque in Africa and the seventh-largest in the world. The walls are made of marble and the roof is retractable (the minaret also has a laser that points to Mecca at night). It took thousands of Moroccan artists a total of five years to build this detailed architectural masterpiece. Its mosaics, plaster moldings, marble and stone columns and floors, and wood ceilings are utterly impressive. It is big enough for 105,000 worshipers! Combined entry to the mosque and museum is 140 MAD.

5. Learn to cook traditional Moroccan food

Traditional Moroccan food is a blend of Berber, Arabic, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and French cuisine. Many hotels and guesthouses offer cooking classes in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez. You can buy fresh produce from the local market and then make a traditional dish. Café Clock offers some of the best classes. With locations in Marrakesh, Chefchaouen, and Fez, this Western-influenced café is famous for its gigantic and delicious camel burger (which tastes a lot like spicy shawarma).

6. Wander thru Kasbah les Oudaias

Located in Rabat, this 12th-century Kasbah is found in the oldest part of the city. The citadel, with its narrow streets of white houses, and a great place to wander around and take some pictures. Its elevation offers beautiful views of the river and ocean.

7. Go surfing

Morocco is extremely popular among surfers. The best time to go is during the winter months when the waves are bigger and more consistent, and the air and water temperature is mild. Head to Taghazout, the most popular surf town, to catch some of the best surf in the country. A week-long stay at a surf camp, including lessons, equipment, accommodation, and airport transfer costs around 5,000 MAD.

8. Visit Tangier

This major city in northern Morocco is located on the North African coast at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. The city’s location means that many civilizations and cultures have left their mark on Tangiers since at least the 10th century BCE. From 1924-1956, Tangier was an international zone separate from Morocco, and thus became a destination for many European and American diplomats, businessmen, writers, and spies during this time. Don’t miss the Grand Mosque, the Kasbah, and strolling down the beach promenade.

9. See Atlas Studios

Named for its proximity to the Atlas Mountains, Atlas Film Studios in the city of Ouarzazate is the largest film studio in the world, covering more than 322,000 sq ft of the desert. Many big films have been shot here including: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Hanna (2011), and part of the TV series Game of Thrones . Be sure to visit the nearby Ksar of Aït Benhaddou kasbah too! It plays into what people think a ksar (fortified village) should look like. I enjoyed roaming the streets and climbing to the top for the view.

10. See the Ancient City of Volubilis

A major trading center and the southernmost settlement during Roman times, Volubilis is one of the best-preserved (and least frequented) such ruins in the world. It originally dates to the 3rd century BCE and became the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mauretania, growing even more during Roman rule. I found it empty of tourists, not built up, and open in a way that lets you see the structures up close without being behind ten feet of barriers and jostled by crowds. Most of the city is still unexcavated so the site has a very “Indiana Jones” feel to it. I’ve been to a lot of Roman ruins in my travels, but this one is my favorite. Admission is 70 MAD.

11. Enjoy the Meknes Medina

Pleasantly stroll the Medina in Meknes without being pestered. Located in Central Morocco, this authentic market sells handicrafts made in Meknes such as embroidery and Meknes “Damascene” ironwork. If the Medinas of Fez and Marrakesh overwhelm you, this is the place to go.

12. Explore Essaouira

Essaouira is located a few hours from Marrakesh on the Atlantic coast and is a popular beach destination for tourists, especially Brits. I loved the relaxed atmosphere of the city, the lack of pushy touts, the sea air, and all the fresh fish. Be sure to visit the wonderful fish market in town, where all the small fishermen sell their day’s catch. Afterward, check out the small fish stalls nearby in the main square where you can enjoy fresh, grilled seafood for cheap.

  For more information on specific destinations in Morocco, check out these guides:

  • Fez Travel Guide
  • Marrakesh Travel Guide

Morocco Travel Costs

A sea-side view along a small village near the beach in sunny Morocco

Accommodation – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost between 80-110 MAD per night in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez, and about 50-60 MAD in smaller places. Private rooms in hostels cost around 260-380 MAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotels in Marrakesh and Fez cost around 270-410 MAD per night for a double room. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, free breakfast, and sometimes even an outdoor pool.

Wild camping is legal in Morocco for those traveling with a tent. Locals usually don’t like people camping on or near their property, however, so only take advantage of this if you’re not going to disturb anyone. Don’t be surprised if nomads or police stop by to check on you.

Food – Moroccan cuisine is a colorful, flavorful mix of Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean traditions with a pinch of French and sub-Saharan cuisine to round things out. It is a land of spices, so expect flavorful meals at every turn (the traditional ras el hanout spice mix is composed of 27 different spices). Beef, goat, and lamb are some of the most common meats, usually eaten with couscous. Fish like mackerel and anchovy are also quite common, owing to the country’s location on the coast. Be sure to try pastilla , a pastry filled with meat or seafood.

Eating in Morocco can be extremely cheap, especially if you eat at the many markets. A pot of mint tea costs between 8-10 MAD. Indulge in local food, including the popular tagine , a meat and vegetables dish for about 35-55 MAD. Sandwiches, pizza, and most other dishes range between 30-50 MAD.

A fish dish in coastal cities like Essaouira costs about 100-150 MAD while a lobster is about 350-400 MAD. Seafood dinners come with drinks, salad, and bread.

For more touristy or Western restaurants, expect to spend at least 150 MAD or more per main dish.

Beer and wine cost around 70 MAD for a drink (however, there aren’t that many opportunities to drink in Morocco, so I wouldn’t factor it much into your budget).

There’s no need to buy groceries here as the food is cheap and it’s far easier to eat out! But if you do, expect to pay 200 MAD per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Morocco Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget expect to spend around 285 MAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating at market stalls and cooking some meals, limiting your drinking (which is very easy to do here), using local transportation to get around, and sticking to free and cheap activities like free walking tours and public hammam visits.

On a mid-range budget of 525 MAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, take the train between cities, and do more paid tours and activities like museum visits and camping in the Sahara.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,120 MAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy a few drinks, fly between cities or hire a driver, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MAD.

Morocco Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t cost a lot of money to travel Morocco — though it’s also easy to splash out here if you want. Here are my tips for saving money in Morocco:

  • Eat from street stalls – It’s extremely easy to eat cheaply in Morocco. While restaurant meals typically cost as little as 30 MAD, street food is even cheaper. For just a few dollars, you can indulge in delicious kebabs, sausages, barbecued corn on the cob, roasted chicken, huge sandwiches, and more. Stick to eating at the local markets in the medina to spend very little money on food.
  • Negotiate your cab fare – Be sure to negotiate a price before you get into the taxi. There aren’t set prices and you need to bargain hard. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for price estimates so you don’t get ripped off.
  • Avoid faux guides – Faux guides (or false guides) linger in the medinas and offer you tour services. Be forceful in saying no while walking away. They are persistent but eventually give up if you keep walking.
  • Be careful of thieves – Petty theft, mostly involving wallets, watches, and cameras, is prevalent in the crowded medinas around the country. Stay alert and keep your valuables out of sight.
  • Avoid drinking – Even though drinking is frowned upon in the country, you can still find plenty of places that allow you to drink. They are overpriced (since alcohol is not common here) and the drinks aren’t that good. Avoid drinking during your visit, save money, and align yourself closer to local norms.
  • Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Staying with a local is the best way to get a feel for the country and learn some insider tips in the process.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink but you should bring a reusable water bottle with a filter just in case. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Morocco

Looking for a place to rest your head in Morocco? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Morocco for your next visit:

  • Riad Dia (Marrakesh)
  • Riad Jennah Rouge (Marrakesh)
  • Kasbah Red Castle Hostel (Marrakesh)
  • Funky Fes (Fez)
  • Aline Hostel (Chefchaouen)
  • The Chill Art (Essaouira)
  • Atlantic Hostel (Essaouira)
  • Baytalice (Tangiers)

How to Get Around Morocco

Traditional sandstone buildings along the ridge of a slope in beautiful Morocco

Public transportation – Public transportation can be hit or miss in Morocco. The bigger cities, like Marrakesh and Casablanca, have public bus services, but the buses are old and overcrowded and the routes are hard to figure out.

Instead, most people use petits taxis to get around town. These are small vehicles that can hold up to three people and are prevalent all over the country. They’re very cheap, although there may be a surcharge after 8pm. To ensure you get a fair fare, negotiate your price upfront.

Metered taxis are also available in bigger cities like Marrakesh. Fares start around 7 MAD and then they charge 4 MAD per kilometer.

Grand taxis – Grand taxis are shared taxis that can carry up to six passengers and are used to go longer distances between neighboring towns/cities. They won’t leave until the taxi is full but generally wait times aren’t so bad. You can locate one near just about any taxi stand or bus/train station. If you have a lot of luggage, you may have to pay extra. You should arrange your fare ahead of time.

Bus – Intercity buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around Morocco, especially compared to other methods of transportation. The four most popular operators are:

  • SATAS (regional)
  • Ghazala (regional)

CTM and Supratours are the most reliable and have comfortable buses with air conditioning. You can book your tickets online or simply show up at the bus station. The websites aren’t terribly reliable or efficient to use. A 4-hour bus ride from Marrakesh to Casablanca is about 75-110 MAD, while a 6.5-hour ride from Marrakesh to Tangier is 260-275 MAD. Casablanca to Fez is 95-120 MAD.

Train – Morocco’s national rail network is operated by ONCF and services some of the country’s major cities like Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, and Fez. The trains are comfortable and they’re usually on time, but disruptions do occasionally happen. There is now a high-speed rail running between Casablanca to Fez too. You can look up schedules and prices on ONCF .

The 2.5-hour train trip from Marrakesh to Casablanca costs about 50 MAD, while the 4.5-hour journey from Marrakesh to Rabat starts around 150-180 MAD. Traveling from Casablanca to Fez takes 4 hours and is 50-120 MAD. The journey from Fez to Marrakesh takes 6.5 hours and costs 195 MAD.

Flying – Royal Air Maroc is the main domestic airline, and they sometimes have good sales. An hour flight from Marrakesh to Casablanca starts at around 870 MAD, while a one-hour flight from Marrakesh to Fez starts at 520 MAD.

Car rental – Car rental isn’t typically recommended in Morocco. Drivers are aggressive and accident rates are high! But if you want to venture off the beaten path, it’s a good way to go. You can find rentals starting from 200 MAD per day (sometimes cheaper).

When to Go to Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is during the country’s shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to November. The temperatures are nice and warm during this time and there is less tourist traffic. (However, this changes if you plan on spending most of your time surfing the coast or hiking the Atlas Mountains.)

Summer lasts from June to August, and it can be ridiculously hot all over the country during this time — especially the further south you go (including in Marrakesh and Fez). A lot of people head to the coast to enjoy places like Tangier, Rabat, and Essaouira. Expect highs above 35°C (95°F).

Winters (December-February) are mild, but it can get quite cold in the evenings. Temperatures drop as low as -3°C (27°F) in Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains receive heavy snowfall. Winters in the north and along the coast are very wet. Overall, it’s not a great time to be here.

The best time to go hiking in the Atlas Mountains is from April to May (spring) and September to October (fall). It’s mild during these months and there’s little risk of severe weather. Summer is the best time to enjoy the coast, where temperatures go as high as 27°C (80°F) but the ocean breeze offers plenty of relief.

How to Stay Safe in Morocco

Overall, Morocco is a safe destination but traveling here requires vigilance. You’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger in Morocco, but the petty crime and harassment require you to stay on guard — more so than in other countries.

Women traveling alone attract a lot of attention here and the chances of being followed and possibly groped are high. This is a particular problem in crowded medinas. Always be watchful and trust your gut. Do not bring valuables with you and keep your belongings tight to your body. Dress conservatively and avoid wearing a lot of jewelry.

Walking alone at night is generally not a good idea in the cities. If you’re unsure about an area, ask the hotel staff which areas are safe. If you need a taxi, always arrange the price in advance to avoid getting ripped off.

When out and about, locals might invite you into their shops or offer to guide you around. Always politely but firmly decline otherwise you might end up getting ripped off.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 19 for assistance (112 for mobile phones).

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Morocco, check out this post that answers frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Morocco Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Morocco Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Morocco and continue planning your trip:

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

Is Morocco Safe? 11 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit

Is Morocco Safe? 11 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

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Koutoubia Mosque in the southwest medina quarter of Marrakesh, Morocco; Shutterstock ID 533973463

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO. 11 th June, 2017: saadian tombs view, The mausoleum comprises the interments of about sixty members of the Saadi Dynasty that originated in the valley of the Draa River; Shutterstock ID 663962023

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco overall due to the threat of terrorism.

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Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 190, or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 190, or visit the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco overall. 

Do not travel within 30km of the northern or western side of the Berm (a militarised boundary) or all areas south and east of the Berm.

Do not travel within 30km of the northern or western side of the Berm (a militarised boundary) or all areas south and east of the Berm because of the risk of armed conflict. Western Sahara's status as part of Morocco is disputed. An active, militarised independence movement known as the Polisario operates to the east of the Berm. 

See  Safety

  • Terrorism is a risk in Morocco. Tourist areas and public places are possible targets. Be alert to possible threats. Avoid known targets. The risk increases in remote mountain areas, the south and border areas.
  • There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests occurring around the country linked to the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Follow the advice from local authorities and monitor media for any updates. 
  • Large public gatherings and protests can turn violent. Avoid demonstrations. Take care on weekends and around Friday prayers.
  • Foreigners are at high risk of serious crime across North Africa. This risk increases in remote areas. Don't hike alone in mountainous or isolated areas. Get professional security advice before travelling to border areas.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Tourists have been mugged when walking at night. Keep your belongings close. Don't walk in isolated areas or along dark streets at night.
  • You may face aggressive begging and harassment, particularly near ATMs. Female travellers may be sexually harassed. Take care when using ATMs. Avoid walking or travelling alone.
  • Scams and fraud are common. These include double-charging credit cards and replacing your purchased goods with lower-quality ones. Australians have fallen victim to fake internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes in Morocco.

Full travel advice:  Safety

  • Common insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis and typhus. Malaria is less common. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.
  • Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
  • Avoid black henna temporary tattoos. These often contain a dye that can irritate the skin.

Full travel advice:  Health

  • Morocco has the death penalty for serious crimes, including high treason, terrorism, multiple murder and rape.
  • Sexual acts between members of the same sex, or outside marriage, are illegal. Possessing pornographic material is also illegal.
  • Understand and follow local laws. Morocco has strict laws around religion, the monarchy, alcohol, drug use, photography, pornography and drone use.
  • Morocco recognises dual nationality, but Moroccan citizenship takes precedence. This can affect child custody disputes and military service requirements. Always travel on your Australian passport.
  • Moroccan society is conservative. Avoid public displays of affection. In some parts of Morocco, you should wear loose fitting clothes that covers arms and legs.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

  • You don't need a visa if you're travelling to Morocco for less than 3 months. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact your nearest Moroccan Embassy for the latest information.
  • On 8 September, an earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Morocco southwest of Marrakesh. There has been widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, including power, water, roads and communications. Recovery and reconstruction efforts are underway. Avoid travelling to impacted areas and follow the instructions from local authorities. If you have concerns about your travels to Marrakesh, contact your tour manager or accommodation provider for the latest updates. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

  • The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
  • For consular assistance and notarial services, contact the  Australian Embassy in Rabat . You need to make an appointment for passport services. Book these online through the embassy website.
  • The Australian Embassy in Rabat can issue Emergency Passports.
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terror attacks are a risk in Morocco.

Past attacks targeted locations that are popular with tourists.

Terrorists murdered two foreign nationals in December 2018. They were hiking in a remote mountain area near Mount Toubkal.

You could get caught up in attacks directed at others.

Various terror groups target the Maghreb region for attacks. This includes Morocco.

Moroccan authorities regularly arrest suspected terrorists and people associated with terror groups. 

Possible targets for future terror attacks include:

  • places where foreigners go, such as hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars, and where alcohol is served or consumed
  • places and institutions associated with Western interests
  • schools, embassies and places of worship
  • casinos, cinemas and other tourist areas
  • markets and outdoor recreation events

In planning your activities, consider the kind of areas known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided.

To reduce your risk of being affected by terrorism:

  • monitor the media for any new or emerging threats
  • take official warnings seriously
  • always be alert to possible threats
  • report any suspicious items or activities to police
  • don't hike alone in remote mountain areas
  • be alert if you travel to southern and border areas of Morocco
  • follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area immediately, if it's safe to do so.

Avoid the affected area after an attack due to the risk of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, including:

  • pickpocketing
  • bag snatching

Theft at knifepoint and other violent crime sometimes happen.

Muggings  have occurred when travellers were walking on deserted beaches and poorly lit streets at night.

Aggressive begging near ATMs is frequent and robberies occur.

Intimidation is sometimes used to force customers to buy goods. Tourists are aggressively harassed, often by men posing as official tourist guides.

Hotspots for crime include popular tourist areas, such as:

Women may be the subject of unwanted attention, particularly:

  • when travelling on their own
  • in markets, beaches and around tourist sites

To help keep yourself safe from crime:

  • always keep your personal belongings close
  • avoid walking in isolated areas or along dark streets at night
  • take care when using ATMs
  • secure your hotel room against intruders, even when you're in it
  • avoid walking or travelling alone
  • Advice for women travellers

Scams and fraud

Common scams and fraud include:

  • charging a credit card twice
  • replacing lower quality goods for those you purchased
  • fake internet friendship or relationship

Australians have fallen victim to fake internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes in Morocco. These scams typically start with a relationship through an internet dating site, chat room or social media.

You may be asked to send money to help them cover travel expenses to Australia or assist in a faked medical emergency.

In most cases, the relationship will end with little chance of recovering any money.

In other cases, Australians are lured to Morocco to meet the person. When they arrive, they become victims of crimes such as kidnapping, assault and robbery.

To avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

  • keep your credit card in sight during all transactions
  • check goods carefully when you make purchases
  • be wary if approached by people online you don't know from Morocco or other West African countries
  • don't send money to anyone in Morocco until you make proper checks.

If you're the victim of a scam, get legal advice. Don't travel to Morocco to seek restitution.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

  • Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Domestic and regional issues can incite protests at any time. Large-scale demonstrations can occur at short notice. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests occurring around the country linked to the evolving situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Demonstrations have occurred in most major cities in proximity to public buildings. Additional demonstrations are expected.  

Most gatherings are peaceful but isolated incidents of vandalism and looting occur.

Sporting events can attract large crowds, and tensions may lead to security incidents.

Western Sahara's status as part of Morocco is disputed. A mostly sand wall, 'the Berm', separates:

  • areas controlled by Morocco
  • areas controlled by an independence movement known as the Polisario

Armed conflict has occurred since the ceasefire collapsed in November 2020. Local or more widespread conflict could resume with little warning.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

  • monitor the media for reports of possible activity
  • avoid affected areas
  • take care on days of national or commemorative significance
  • be extra careful on weekends, including the period around Friday prayers

Be ready to change your travel plans in case of disruptions.

If you're affected by transport disruptions, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer.

  • Demonstrations and civil unrest

Climate and natural disasters

Earthquakes.

Morocco is in an earthquake zone.  Earthquakes  sometimes occur.

On 8 September, an earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Morocco southwest of Marrakesh. There has been widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, including power, water, roads and communications. Recovery and reconstruction efforts are underway. Avoid travelling to impacted areas and follow the instructions from local authorities. If you have concerns about your travels to Marrakesh or other impacted zones, contact your tour manager or accommodation provider for the latest updates. 

Follow the instructions from local authorities. Monitor the media for any updates. Contact your airline or travel provider directly for any updates regarding your travel plans. 

  To protect yourself in case of an earthquake:

  • know the evacuation plan for your hotel  or accommodation
  • secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
  • monitor local media and other sources such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
  • follow the advice of local authorities
  • keep in contact with your friends and family

Flash flooding can occur. Risk of flooding is higher:

  • in the mountains or near rivers
  • during the rainy season from November to March

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

You may need a special insurance policy for 'do not travel' destinations. Some Australian insurance policies may not cover you for travel to 'do not travel' destinations.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

  • what activities and care your policy covers
  • that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Morocco. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a dated letter from your doctor stating:

  • what the medication is
  • your required dosage
  • that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases are common in Morocco, including:

  • leishmaniasis
  • typhus fever

Malaria  is less common.

To protect yourself from disease:

  • make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
  • use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

  • Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Some waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common.

To protect yourself from illness:

  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
  • avoid ice cubes
  • avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
  • don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. They often contain a dye that can cause a serious skin reaction.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Major cities generally have adequate medical facilities.

Services can be extremely limited in:

  • smaller cities
  • rural and remote areas

Most private hospitals require upfront payment before admitting patients, including in an emergency. Not paying up-front may delay your treatment.

Most ambulance services are privately operated.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include long prison terms.

  • Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty

The death penalty can apply for serious offences such as:

  • high treason
  • multiple murder

Sexual activities that are against the law in Morocco include:

  • same-sex sexual acts
  • sexual acts outside marriage
  • possessing pornographic material

In Morocco, it's illegal to:

  • preach a religion other than Islam or import religious materials that don't relate to Islam
  • perform acts or make statements that criticise or denigrate the monarchy
  • drink alcohol in public places
  • buy pirated or counterfeit items
  • present a cheque without sufficient funds
  • send a passport through the mail
  • consume drugs, even in small quantities
  • possess pornographic material

Authorities may question or detain you if you:

  • aren't Muslim and try to enter a mosque that isn't open to the general public
  • take photos of official buildings, government or military buildings, other sensitive facilities or areas near these locations

Drone use is heavily controlled in Morocco. Seek approval from the Moroccan Government before you enter the country with a drone.

  • Advice for LGBTI travellers

Marriage requirements

If you want to  get married  in Morocco, you'll need to present:

  • a  Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI)
  • a copy of your passport with a valid Moroccan entry stamp or valid residency documents

You can organise these documents through:

  • the consular section of the  Australian Embassy in Morocco
  • your nearest  DFAT office  in Australia

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

  • Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Morocco recognises dual nationality.

Under Moroccan law, Moroccan citizenship takes priority. This can affect your rights and responsibilities, including:

  • military service
  • parental custody
  • access to consular services

If you're a dual national, even if your second nationality is not Moroccan, the Australian Embassy may be restricted in the  consular assistance  we can provide you with if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your  Australian passport .

Moroccan citizenship is automatic for the children of Moroccan fathers. Moroccan women who are married to foreigners can also pass on their Moroccan citizenship to their children.

Local law applies to child custody decisions. This may affect whether you can leave Morocco with your children.

If you're a dual national, seek legal advice on child custody disputes.

If you're a single parent travelling with children, you may need to carry a letter from the second parent authorising the children’s travel plans. Always carry your children’s birth certificates or have copies on hand.

  • Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Morocco.

Public displays of affection can cause offence.

In some parts of Morocco, women should consider wearing loose clothing covering the arms and legs.

Take care in or around:

  • rural and traditional areas
  • religious shrines
  • religious schools

Couples may need to provide proof of marriage to get shared accommodation.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Religious festivals

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting for Muslims around the world. R espect  local laws and customs during this period. 

Check the start and end dates of Ramadan prior to your travel, as these change every year. Under Moroccan law, Muslims aren’t allowed to eat, drink or smoke in public during Ramadan unless they meet requirements for a dispensation (such as illness, travel or pregnancy). 

While this doesn't apply to non-Muslims, if you are non-Muslim you should still avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or around those who are fasting, so as not to attract attention or questioning by police.

Most restaurants, cafés, eateries, and delivery services do not operate during the day, and some tourist attractions might be closed.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

You won't need a visa to visit Morocco for less than 3 months. In other situations, you'll need a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact your nearest  Embassy of Morocco  for the latest details.

Moroccan embassies or tourist and travel offices can inform you about visas, currency, customs and other travel requirements.

Visa overstays

Do not overstay your visa.

If you overstay your visa you won’t be able to leave Morocco until you regularise your immigration status. You could be subject to a fine, a deportation order or a ban from re-entering.

If you have overstayed your visa, or are unable to leave due to border closures, contact your nearest police station. Once you have regularised your visa status, make sure you obtain a written exit permit from the police station to present at your point of departure.

Without a written permit, you won't be able to travel out of Morocco.

Passport stamps

Some tourists report having trouble leaving the country without a stamp in their passport.

Get your passport stamped when you enter Morocco.

Closed borders

The land border between Morocco and Algeria is closed.

Don't attempt to cross into Algeria by land.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who want to use your identity to commit crimes.

To protect your passport, always keep it in a safe place.

Be aware of people trying to trick you into giving them your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, you should obtain a police report detailing the loss or theft of the passport, and tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

  • In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service
  • If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

  • LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

You must declare all amounts in foreign currency over MAD100,000 when you arrive and depart.

Access to money

The Australian Dollar is not on the Moroccan Government-approved exchange currencies list. You will not be able to exchange cash denominated in Australian dollars while in Morocco. Prior to arriving, you should exchange Australian dollars into US dollars or euros, which Moroccan exchange bureaus accept.

Alternatively, you could use money transfer services, such as  Western Union  or  MoneyGram , to send yourself funds that you can collect in Moroccan Dirhams using your passport. 

Only exchange currency at:

  • commercial banks
  • licensed exchange bureaus

Australian credit cards are generally accepted in larger cities and tourist centres.

ATMs are widely available in cities and most large towns.

Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work in Morocco.

It's illegal to take Moroccan Dirhams out of the country. Convert any unused Dirhams prior to your travel out of Morocco.

Local travel

Unexploded landmines are an ongoing risk in Western Sahara . This risk is higher within 30km of the Berm, but also closer inland.

To protect yourself against landmines:

  • don't travel to areas within 30km of the northern or western side of the Berm
  • don't travel south or east of the Berm

If, despite our advice you travel to these areas, seek professional security advice and stick to formed roads and paths in any areas where landmines are a risk.

Transport and tour operators don't always meet the safety and maintenance standards you might expect. This includes  adventure activities , such as diving and desert excursions.

Safety equipment, such as life jackets and seatbelts, may not be provided.

To reduce your risks while taking a tour in Morocco:

  • make sure the activity is covered by your travel insurance
  • check the operator's credentials and safety equipment, including communications, before you book
  • ask about, and insist on minimum safety requirements
  • always use available safety equipment, even if others don't
  • avoid hiking alone in remote mountain areas

If you don't have access to safety equipment, use another provider. See  Safety

Driving permit

To drive in Morocco, you must have both:

  • a valid Australian driver's licence
  • an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

The death toll from road accidents in Morocco is high.

Hazards include:

  • unsafe driving practices
  • poor lighting and road quality in rural areas
  • pedestrians and animals on rural roads

Driving on rural roads at night is particularly dangerous.

Drivers must carry an unfilled 'accident report' (constat à l'amiable) in the vehicle. You can buy these forms at local newsstands. It is also a legal requirement to carry a traffic cone and a reflective vest, in case of an accident or an emergency stop.

The police don't usually intervene in minor road accidents where no one is injured. All parties involved need to complete an accident report.

If the accident involves injuries, you must wait for police to arrive before moving your vehicle.

Checkpoints are common. You must be able to show:

  • personal identification (ID)
  • vehicle-related documents

If you plan to drive in Morocco:

  • learn local traffic laws and practices
  • be alert to possible hazards, especially at night
  • avoid road travel at night outside urban areas

Be alert on mountain roads and major highways.

Always carry personal ID and vehicle documents, including an accident report form.

  • Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you if you have an accident while driving a motorbike, quad bike or similar. Check before you drive.

Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.

Only use registered taxis and limousines, preferably booked through your hotel.

Public transport

Several fatal bus crashes on intercity routes have occurred.

Morocco's rail network is relatively safe and reliable, but accidents happen.

In October 2018, a train derailed between the cities of Sale and Kenitra. Many passengers were killed or injured.

Pickpocketing and petty theft on trains occurs. Stay alert and don't leave luggage unattended.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Morocco's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Call 190 or go to the nearest hospital.  Contact your travel insurer’s 24-hour emergency number as soon as you can.

Call 190 or visit the nearest police station.

Most emergency phone operators don't speak English.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

You can access passport, notarial and consular services for Australians overseas at the Australian Embassy in Morocco.

You'll need to make an appointment for passport or notarial services. Book online through the website of the  Australian Embassy in Morocco .

Australian Embassy, Morocco

66, Avenue MehdiBen Barka 10000 Souissi-Rabat Morocco Phone: +212 537 543366 Fax: +212 537 656046 Email: [email protected]  or  [email protected]   Website:  morocco.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy Morocco

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Morocco Travel Guide: Best Things To Do (10-day Itinerary)

Morocco Travel Guide: Best Things To Do (10-day Itinerary)

Morocco: beautiful, diverse, adventurous, and mysterious. On the same day, you can walk with a camel in the Sahara at sunrise, snowboard in the Atlas Mountains by the afternoon, and relax in luxurious medina riads by evening. It is a large country with legendary scenery that makes it a delight to travel through. Distances can be long; however, the stunning destinations make it worth it. Follow this 10-day Morocco travel guide to include all the amazing highlights of this wonderful country!

Best things to do in Morocco

Our 10-day Morocco itinerary started in Chefchaouen , but you can easily do this the other way around. If you have the time, we would recommend extending the itinerary to 12 days (instead of 10) to have one more day in Chefchaouen and one extra for the Sahara Desert Tour . Take as much time as you can to enjoy the magic of Morocco!

Morocco travel route guide map

Day 1 – From Tangier Airport Directly to Chefchaouen

The nearest airport to Chefchaouen is Tangier Airport. From Tangier, it’s a 2-hour drive by taxi or a 4-hour drive on the CTM bus. The bus costs around 50 DH, which is a little less than 5 USD.

best things to do chefcaouen sunrise

From the airport, take a taxi to the gare routière (bus station), which is 1.5 km away. All buses, including CTM, will leave from here. Or, get a rental car from the airport in Morocco. You can also split the cost of a taxi to Chefchaouen with other travelers and pay around 15 USD each.  This will save you 2 hours of time on the bus and ultimately give you more time on your Morocco itinerary.

Hotels in Chefchaouen 😴

Dar Hannan

Day 2 – Explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is the one place you shouldn’t skip while creating your Morocco itinerary. It’s a mountain village painted in 100 shades of blue. Wander the beautiful streets here, taking pictures of cute doorways and cute kittens in this photographer’s paradise!

Spend one extra day in this city if you are able to, and use this day to enjoy the nature of the Riff Mountains surrounding the city.

Read more: Best things to do in the Blue City of Morocco: Chefchaouen

chefcaouen morocco

Day 3 – Traveling to Fes

Getting from Chefchaouen to Fes is a 4-hour bus ride along beautiful roads. You really see the countryside of Morocco , which is great to see aside from the big cities. If you’ve got your own transportation, you can also drive to Fes yourself, passing through the diverse landscape of the country.

We recommend to rent a car in Morocco through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

best things to do fes morocco buy rug

Day 4 – Wandering Around in Fes

Fes is a city that is very hard to be bored in. There is a lot to do in and around Fes. It has one of the oldest medinas, which is also the largest car-free urban area in the world! It is also surprisingly not that touristy, as it’s not on most people’s Morocco itinerary.

The city is a must-see to experience true, medieval, authentic Morocco, often feeling like a step back in time! Discover towers of spices, colorful rugs, leather tanneries, and steamy hammams in this fascinating city.

Read more: Best things to do in Fes, Morocco

Hotels in Fes 😴

Riad Sidrat

Day 5 – Travel to Merzouga (Sahara Desert Morocco)

Merzouga is a town on the edge of the Sahara Desert in Morocco. From here, it is a 45-minute drive to the camp where you will be staying for the night. It is an unforgettable moment on your Morocco itinerary as you witness the rippling orange and red sands for the very first time.

desert-tour

It is best to do a 3-day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech. From Fes to Merzouga is a spectacular 5-hour drive through beautiful landscapes and the snow-covered Atlas Mountains. A tour will take you right into the Sahara desert and give you a true feel for these landscapes and the friendly people that live here.

Read more: Sahara Desert Tour (Discount code available for the tour)

tour atlas mountains

Day 6 – Sunrise in the Sahara and Marrakech

It is an early morning wakeup on day 6, after a great evening with music, dinner, and some of the best star-gazing in the world! Hop out of bed, and go for a walk with a camel before trekking along the tops of the dunes to see a stunning Saharan sunrise. This is one of the most breathtaking moments on the Morocco itinerary!

Please note: Since this trip in 2016 we have learned a lot about animals used in tourism. We don’t recommend riding a camel anymore! Learn more about different forms of wildlife tourism and the better alternatives .

desert tour morocco

After sunrise, breakfast is served before getting back in the car again to carry on the 10-day Morocco itinerary. The car takes you to Boumalne Dades as a place to sleep on your way to Marrakech. This is a beautiful town situated on the edge of the desert, surrounded by uniquely shaped cliffs and gorges. If you’re visiting in Spring, there may be an opportunity to see the valleys full of red and pink flowers!

You will visit a lot of wonderful sights on your way to Boumalne Dades, including many typical, earthen-style villages of the Sahara.

Hotels in Boumalne Dades 😴

Riad Rihana Dades

Day 7 – Heading to Marrakech

On the last day of the tour, you will be visiting Ait Benhaddou, a breathtaking town! Here, houses look like giant sandcastles and are built against a hilltop, surrounded by beautiful palm trees. The movie-like scenery of this town has made it a popular location for many movies to be filmed.  Additionally, you will visit one of the highest points in the Atlas Mountains. The views from up here are spectacular! 

By the end of the day, you will arrive in Marrakech , probably ready to dip in the refreshing waters of a swimming pool. Because of this, make sure to book into a great riad in Marrakech.

Hotels in Marrakech 😴

BeMarrakech

Day 8 + 9 – Marrakech

Marrakech is a fantastic city to end your Morocco itinerary. Wander through the Medina, bargain for some souvenirs, enjoy the many-colored buildings and palm tree-filled parks, and stay in the most stunning riads (guesthouses). This city is full of gems to discover, and best of all, it’s foodie heaven!

Spend days hunting for treasures in the maze of souks, and end them by enjoying the Moroccan delights of tagine and mint tea on one of the many beautiful roof terraces in the city.

Read more: Best things to do in Marrakech, Morocco

most beautiful riad marrakech morocco

Day 10 – Flying Home

Enjoy your last delicious Moroccan breakfast, and fly home from Marrakech International Airport.

Want to see more of Morocco? Head out to Essaouira or go surfing in Taghazout. There are endless beautiful places to explore in Morocco, and your itinerary can be adjusted to account for other new and exciting places.

Is Morocco Safe to Travel?

Yes!! Morocco is really safe as a country to travel to. People are friendly and will often smile and chat. They will also politely let you know when they don’t want you to take a picture of them. At night, make sure not to walk alone and try to stay in the city center (medina) to ensure safety.

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Is Morocco Safe to Travel Solo as a Woman?

Yes, it’s definitely safe! However, keep in mind that this is a Muslim country, and men are not really used to ‘Western’ women. Blonde hair, in particular, will draw a lot of attention. It’s helpful to wear clothes that cover up your shape a little, so no shorts or mini skirts, for example.

This is also more respectful when traveling in a Muslim country. It’s a good idea to pack a few scarves to take out with you, just in case there are situations when you may need to cover your shoulders and arms (for religious sites, for example).

blue city morocco streets

Traveling Morocco, as a woman, can definitely be an enjoyable experience. However, it’s always safer to travel together with someone else if there is the option.

Morocco Budget

Traveling in Morocco can be as cheap or expensive as you make it! A group tour to the Sahara will cost around 150 USD, and a private tour around 600 USD. Trains and buses are very cheap, whereas taxis can get pricey very fast, especially if you get stuck in Moroccan traffic! Expect food to cost anywhere between 2 and 12 USD, and fresh orange juice only 0,50 to 3 USD. 

Costs of Traveling in Morocco

Travel on a budget in Morocco, from $170 − $590 USD weekly per person, mid-range $720 − $1430 USD, and high-end from $1480 − $2320 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $20 − $150 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $2 − $25 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $25 − $50 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $5 − $25 USD
  • Activities: $5 − $100 USD See tickets & tours
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

roads

Best Time to Visit Morocco

We would recommend avoiding Morocco in July and August, as it can get unpleasantly hot in the cities.  We visited in February, and we only needed a light jacket for a few days of the trip, which was the perfect climate for us.

The country is at its most beautiful from March to May when the landscape bursts into spring. During this time, you can expect to see valleys of flowers and fields of green. During Autumn (September to October), temperatures are also very pleasant, which makes traveling throughout the country more comfortable.

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11 Things To Do in Fes, Morocco (Complete Guide)

Sahara morocco: visit the merzouga desert on a 3-day tour, 9 best things to do in chefchaouen, morocco.

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Journal of Nomads

23 Travel Tips for Morocco – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

What are the best travel tips for Morocco? In this article, I’ll tell you a few things that you should know before visiting Morocco. I’ll also explain some key points that make Morocco stand apart and I’ll give you travel advice that will help you enjoy your trip to Morocco even more.

Morocco is a country that attracts people from all over the world and this all year round thanks to its exotic landscapes and gorgeous traditional cities. It’s a country that has charmed our hearts with its waterfalls , port cities , and huge sand dunes .

There is definitely a lot to do in Morocco but what should travelers know before visiting this North-African country? What are the best travel tips for Morocco?

Driving to the Cascade d'Ouzoud - Journal of Nomads

Travel tip for Morocco #1: You should definitely visit the waterfalls

Read more to find out what you should know before visiting Morocco. These are useful travel tips and small everyday life details that we couldn’t help but observe while visiting this beautiful country.

Sunset in Sahara Desert - Lumix G90 by Cynthia Bil - Journal of Nomads

Morocco is not just a huge desert…

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Our top travel tips for Morocco

1. a lot of shops and restaurants in morocco are closed on fridays.

Morocco is a Muslim country and as such, Fridays are sacred days. A bit like Sundays for Christians. In Morocco, Fridays are usually the days when families and friends gather, stay at home and share a hearty Couscous.

Because of this a lot of cafes, stores, and restaurants are not open on Friday until the late afternoon.

Things to do in Tangier - The Ultimate Guide to Tangier, Morocco - Journal of Nomads

Things are quiet on Friday mornings in Morocco…

Imagine walking out of your hostel in Morocco one morning with a super hungry belly just to find out that nothing is open. Not a single open restaurant in sight and no shop where you can buy some snacks.

That has happened to us on quite a few occasions and for some reason, we always forget to prepare for this ahead of time!

A quick tip: If you’re backpacking around Morocco and you’re in a small town on a Thursday night, buy food for the next morning.

Rock climbing and other fun things worth doing in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir - Things to do in Todra Gorges - Morocco - Journal of Nomads

In rural areas, you might not find any shop open on Friday mornings…

2. People generally get up late and stay up late

In the north of Morocco and especially in Tangier, life starts rather late in the morning. If you’re an early bird, you might have trouble finding a place open for a coffee before 10 AM.

By the same token, people stay up super late. When we were staying in a hostel in the old medina of Tangier , we could hear people talking and howling with laughter in the streets until 2 AM. Needless to say, we didn’t get much rest that night.

Things to do in Tangier - The Ultimate Guide to Tangier, Morocco -view over Tangier from Dar Nour - Journal of Nomads

Two happy travelers in the old Medina of Tangier…

People in Morocco also stay up very late during Ramadan . Since they’re only allowed to eat after sunset, a lot of restaurants are opened during that month until one in the morning.

For those who enjoy a midnight snack, Ramadan will be the perfect time to travel to Morocco.

crowd Marrakesh Ramadan iftar - journal of nomads

People stay up late in big touristic cities and especially during Ramadan…

3. It’s easy to travel around Morocco by bus, by train or even by hitchhiking

Trains in Morocco are super cheap and cozy. They’re also a great way to see the Moroccan countryside in comfort.

Their only downside is that they aren’t very fast except for the new high-speed train linking Tangier , Casablanca , and Rabat . That’s OK for me though since I love studying languages and long train rides in Morocco meant I had more time to study Moroccan Arabic .

Backpacking in Morocco - Getting around in Morocco by train - Journal of Nomads

Trains in Morocco are very comfortable…

In Morocco, it’s very easy to buy your train tickets in person directly at the train station. There is no need to try to buy them online ahead of time.

All the information on prices and timetables can be found on the ONCF website, once you know which train you will take you can head over to the train station to buy your ticket.

Make sure to bring cash to buy your ticket as it’s not always possible to pay by debit or credit card.

Top things to see and do in Chefchaouen, the Blue city of Morocco. City guide to Chefchaouen. How to get to and leave from Chefchaouen by bus. Buses in Morocco. Journal of Nomads

Every town or city has a bus station making it really easy to travel around the country…

It’s also equally easy to get around Morocco by bus. My advice though would be to buy a ticket from a bus company called CTM . Their buses are super comfortable, they take you directly to your destination and they don’t stop to pick people along the way.

Getting around Morocco by train or by bus is easy but hitchhiking wins the prize for the easiest means of transport around the country.

Hitchhiking in Morocco is not only possible, but it’s also super easy. We hitchhiked as a couple and almost never had to wait for more than an hour to get a ride. We also hitchhiked with two friends and our waiting time was similar, despite being 4 people and having an equal amount of big backpacks.

What should men wear in Morocco - packing list for Morocco - Journal of Nomads

Hitchhiking in Morocco is super easy…

A lot of people giving us rides in Morocco invited us in their homes for a meal and they were super happy to hear our stories and talk with us. Learning a few words in Moroccan Arabic would be of tremendous help if you hitchhike around Morocco.

Hitchhiking in Morocco - what to pack for an adventure in Morocco - Journal of Nomads

We sometimes got rides in pick-up trucks…

Another great tip is to ask someone to write down your destination on a piece of cardboard in Arabic.

Invited by a Moroccan family in their home - Backpacking in Morocco - Journal of Nomads

This is a lovely family who hosted us in their home when we were hitchhiking in Morocco…

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Read our Travel Guide to Backpacking in Morocco

for mo info on how to get around the country

4. Moroccans speak so many languages!

I love learning languages and often pride myself in the fact that I speak quite a few of them. One day I was on the square of Jemma al Fenaa in Marrakesh and I was talking with two youngsters about my language skills. They didn’t seem very impressed and they quickly put me to shame by speaking in more than eleven different languages!

What are the best day trips from Marrakesh Morocco? - journal of nomads

In Marrakesh, you’ll meet people who speak many different languages…

And that didn’t happen only once while I was in Morocco. All over Tangier, Rabat, and Meknes, I met young Moroccans who were absolute language masters.

This is a reflection of Morocco’s diverse influences. Berber, Arab, French and Spanish speaking groups of people have shaped what is now a very unique culture. It’s not uncommon to meet people who speak all of these different languages in Morocco.

How to learn Derija, Moroccan Arabic - Journal of Nomads

Moroccans are language masters…

Want to learn Arabic?

Read: Tips and tricks to learn Moroccan Arabic

5. Morocco isn’t a party country

Morocco isn’t really the place to come and party. Although alcohol is sometimes allowed in certain hostels, generally it isn’t. Drinks in bars are also more expensive in Morocco than what you would typically pay in Europe.

Alcohol is not impossible to get though and most cities will have a few liquor stores. Because Cynthia and I are wine lovers, we continued buying our traditional weekly bottle whenever we were staying in apartments we had booked online.

Parties and drinking however always happen behind closed doors. Drinking in public in Morocco is prohibited. In general, being drunk outside is never a great idea in this Muslim country and is bound to get you in trouble.

Rock climbing and other fun things worth doing in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir - Things to do in Todra Gorges - Morocco - Journal of Nomads

Morocco is a Muslim country and not really the place to come and party…

6. Healthy and cheap food everywhere

Fruits and veggies in Morocco are some of the best I had in my whole life. They are plentiful, easily accessible all year round and they are super fresh. Morocco could be a very good travel option for Vegans .

Bigger Moroccan cities usually have an open-air fruit and vegetable market or they will have fruits and vegetables for sale in the old city.

Markets of Tangier - Ultimate Travel Guide to Tangier - Journal of Nomads

Fresh fruit and veggies all year round…

My favorite fresh produce market in Morocco was the one in Tangier. It has everything you could imagine and some of the lowest prices I have seen in my life.

Apart from finding delicious food there, the place is a photographer’s paradise. Cynthia went there a few time to snap amazing pictures of the market’s atmosphere.

23 Travel Tips for Morocco - Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

So many different kinds of olives…

Curious about the price of food in Morocco?

Read: Morocco on a budget

7. In Morocco always ask before taking pictures

Photographing people in Morocco is much harder than in other countries.

The Moroccans are very nice, friendly and talkative people. They usually smile, offer their help and are interested in who you are and where you come from. But the moment you aim your camera at them, their attitude changes.

Some people will suddenly cover their faces and firmly object having their photo taken, others might even scream at you.

Panasonic Lumix G90 - Street Photography Morocco - Journal of Nomads

This happened to Cynthia when she was in Chefchaouen . She had her camera in her hand and was waiting for a woman and her child to pass by so she could take a photo of the blue street. The woman thought she was going to photograph her and made a huge scene.

In this North-African country, people are rarely very keen on having their picture taken. It’s always better to approach people first and engage in conversation with them for a while to break the ice before asking to take their portrait.

Portrait of Moroccan man - Journal of Nomads

approached the right way, people will gladly let you photograph them…

Taking pictures of people in Morocco is a real challenge. After a few months in the country though, Cynthia became really good at it. She wrote a cool guide in which she explains the techniques she used to approach and take pictures of people there.

Cynthia Bil Travel Photographer Panasonic Lumix G90 G95 - Journal of Nomads

With the right techniques, taking pictures of people in Morocco is not as hard as it sounds…

Read: How to photograph people in Morocco

8. Buy and register your Sim card in a shop, not on the streets

If you’re planning to stay in Morocco for a long period of time, you might be wondering how to get a good internet connection whilst in the country.

The best way to have fast, decent and reliable internet in Morocco is to buy a sim card and use your mobile data as a hotspot for your laptop.

view of Bab Masour from al Hedim square - Meknes Morocco - journal of nomads

Moroccans often sell sim cards directly on the streets…

What we recommend is that you go to an official agency to register for a sim card instead of buying one from a street vendor. You’ll need your passport to register but at least you’ll know that the number is and stays yours.

When you buy a sim card on the streets, the sim card might stop working after a couple of weeks. The agency, on the other hand, will explain how to recharge your mobile data on a weekly or monthly basis.

market marrakesh - morocco - journal of nomads

Read also: Surfing in Morocco – A Guide to the Best Surfing Spots in the Country

9. If you’re not Muslim you won’t be allowed to enter most of the mosques in Morocco

Unless you’re a Muslim, most mosques around the country will be off-limits. If you’d really love to see the inside of one, however, you could always visit the mosque Hassan II in Casablanca . A ticket to visit this mosque costs 120 MAD.

A mosque open to the public I highly recommend visiting is an old abandoned mud-brick mosque called Mosque Ikalane. It’s located in the small town of Tinerhir near the Todra gorges in the south of Morocco.

Fun things worth doing in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir - Things to do in Tinerhir - mosque ikalne Mosque Ikalalne Alafour - Morocco - Journal of Nomads

Mosque Ikelane in the small town of Tinghir is open to the public…

This mosque is usually guarded by a very friendly old man who will be happy to tell you about its history and the current restoration projects.

Backpacking in Morocco - languages spoken in Morocco - Journal of Nomads

The caretaker of the mosque will be very happy to tell you about the history of the place…

Mosque Ikalane looks like a simple mud-brick building with a brown pointy cupola and is one of the few mosques you’ll be allowed to visit when in Morocco. There are no official entrance fees but if you give a small donation to the old man for the restoration work, it will be very welcome.

23 Travel Tips for Morocco - Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

This is what the inside of the mosque looks like now…

10. Moroccans have the best mint tea in the world

You know how certain tastes can trigger emotions and memories? Whenever I taste mint, I can’t help but think of Morocco.

Moroccans have adopted mint tea as their national drink and they consume loads of it.

They are so fond of this sweet drink that they call it the “Moroccan Whiskey”. It is served with almost every meal and tastes absolutely delicious. I just couldn’t stop ordering this sweet drink while I was traveling in the country and it’s one of the 13 things that made me fall in love with Morocco .

Photography tips for Morocco - Man pourring tea in Essaouira - Journal of Nomads

Moroccans sure love mint tea…

11. Morocco has a lot of rooftop terraces

In the old Medinas of popular Moroccan cities, the streets between buildings are usually very narrow. Because of this most of the buildings have rooftop terraces and this is where women will hang their laundry and where they will socialize.

Riads in popular towns like Chefchaouen also have terraces but these are usually used by tourists to admire the sunset after a long day of hiking in the Rif mountains.

One recommendation I can give you before you visit Morocco is to take advantage of the rooftop terraces as much as you can while you’re there. They are the perfect place to see the cities from above and to get really cool views of the medinas.

Things to do in and around Chefchaouen, the Blue City of Morocco - streets of Chefchaouen - sunset in Chefchaouen - Journal of Nomads

The rooftop terraces in Chefchaouen are the perfect place to admire the sunset…

Tons of restaurants in cities like Meknes and Marrakesh also have rooftop terraces where you can eat while you admire the central square of the city.

place lahdim - al hadim square - Meknes Morocco - journal of nomads

Restaurant terraces will give you a cool view of the city…

12. Couscous Fridays

In Morocco, Fridays are days when families gather together and eat couscous. You’ll see this dish in every restaurant but Friday in Morocco is when it’s traditionally eaten with the families and loved ones.

I find it beautiful to see family and friends gather for that special meal. Moroccan families will also sometime put a plate of couscous with some spoons on a stall in the street for the poorest of the community or the homeless.

Travel to Morocco on a budget - How much does it cost to live and travel in Morocco -How much does food in Morocco cost - Moroccan Couscous - Journal of Nomads

Nothing beats a good dish of couscous, meat, and vegetables…

When I was living in Tangier, my neighbors would always invite me for couscous on Fridays and it felt great to share that traditional moment with Moroccan friends.

Colors of Morocco - Journal of Nomads

Some of the different spices used with couscous…

13. Hashish is everywhere!

Hashish is absolutely everywhere in Morocco. When Cynthia and I were in Chefchaouen , we would be approached by guys who would ask us first if we were looking for a restaurant and then almost inevitably if we wanted some hashish.

This started happening so often that every time someone approached us, we knew he’d be offering us hashish at one point. Cynthia and I got offered some hashish by local dealers at least 8 times per day.

How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen - Rif Mountains - Morocco - hiking trail to the Akchour Waterfalls - Journal of Nomads

Most of the hashish is produced in the Rif mountains near Chefchaouen…

Hashish is commonly and casually offered in the streets of Morocco and you shouldn’t be alarmed by this.

I can’t tell you how much the hash costs as we don’t smoke it but apparently it’s very cheap and you won’t likely get in trouble for buying and smoking it in your hostel in Chefchaouen . However, I wouldn’t recommend smoking it openly anywhere else, you could get into pretty serious trouble.

Things to do in and around Chefchaouen, the Blue City of Morocco- Journal of Nomads

Chefchaouen is a place where you’re not likely to get in trouble for smoking hashish…

14. Moroccan men love to sit in Cafes

Cafes are the place where Moroccan men typically socialize. Cafes are found in every popular street and they’re usually filled to the brim with middle-age men drinking coffee, and mint tea while they watch football or have long conversations about politics and the weather.

Things to do in Tangier - The Ultimate Guide to Tangier, Morocco -Cafe Hafa - Journal of Nomads

Cafe Hafa is one of the most popular cafes in Tangier…

15. Houses and hotels can be cold in winter

Because most houses in Morocco are poorly insulated, they get quite cold in winter. Most Moroccan families will have electrical heaters though but some hostels and hotels won’t.

If you plan to travel to Morocco in winter, I suggest bringing a good warm sleeping bag . Very often hostels provide very few blankets to their guests. I can assure you that I would have been cold very often in Moroccan hostels if it wasn’t for my sleeping bag.

If your hostel doesn’t have a heater or warm blankets, you can always use it for extra warmth or as an extra comfy pillow.

Hiking to toubkal during winter - snow on toubkal - trekking to toubkal during winter morocco - journal of nomads

16. When you buy things, always bargain

If you visit Morocco, you’ll have to learn to haggle prices. Moroccans love to haggle and bargain and it’s a big part of their culture. If you’re patient enough and don’t accept the initial deal, you can lower the price by a huge amount.

busy market Marrakesh Morocco - journal of nomads

Moroccans love haggling prices and some would consider it the national sport…

Another point to consider is that there are usually tons of shops in the souks selling exactly the same things. If you can’t get a good deal with one seller, don’t despair and pay the neighboring stand a visit. You’ll probably end up getting a better offer.

market of Marrakesh Morocco - journal of nomads

If you learn how to haggle, you’ll be able to reduce the price of things by a lot…

I would suggest learning a few helpful words in Moroccan Arabic before hitting the markets.

17. Juices! So many good fruit juices everywhere

Morocco is the land of fresh fruits. Every Moroccan city has a type of fresh fruit juice stores called Makshada. You can simply walk in, look at the menu and ask for a blend of your favorite fruits.

They’re filled with vitamins and they’re the perfect way to start the day. My personal favorite juice is a mix of strawberries and orange juice. I’m crazy about it, and at one moment, it was an essential part of my daily Moroccan routine.

Things to do in and around Chefchaouen, the Blue City of Morocco - streets of Chefchaouen - Get lost in the streets of Chefchaouen - Journal of Nomads

You can buy fresh fruit juice everywhere!

18. In hammams, strangers will gladly wash your back

Visiting a Hammam is the quintessential Moroccan experience. In Essaouira, just like in most major Moroccan cities, you will have two options when it comes to visiting Hammams. You can either go to the popular local hammam where the majority of the locals go to or you could visit a spa type hammam.

I would personally recommend the first type over the latter. Popular cheap local hammams are a great part of the Moroccan culture.

All you need to do before you go is grab some natural Argan soap and your scrubbing cloth. Once there, you’ll be handed a bucket and you have to undress in the midst of locals scrubbing each other’s back while chatting about their daily life.

Things to see and do in Essaouira – The complete guide to Morocco's windy city - Argan Oil - Journal of Nomads

This is how the soap used in hammams is made…

It’s not uncommon for strangers to offer each other a good back scrub in traditional hammams. If someone offers to wash your back, they’ll probably expect the same thing in return.

Hammams in Morocco are separate for men and women. Women will typically strip down to their panties and not wear any bra while men will wear some underpants.

19. Lookout for bedbugs in hostels

Because of the temperate climate and the steady stream of travelers, Moroccan hostels can be plagued with bedbugs.

Whenever you book a hostel in Morocco, double-check the reviews. If you see mention of bedbugs, you should avoid the place unless you want to give the little fellas a free snack and carry the bugs on your trip with you.

Things to do in Tangier - The Ultimate Guide to Tangier, Morocco -Petit Socco- Journal of Nomads

20. Morocco is not a huge desert and its landscapes might surprise you

Before I visited Morocco, I was expecting the country to be very arid and a huge desert. I was actually surprised and blown away by how varied the landscapes are here.

You can find everything in Morocco, from green valleys, wild-flowing waterfalls, serene lakes, snow-capped mountains and beautiful coastlines to subtropical palm groves, spectacular canyons, arid mars-like landscapes and desolate sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.

How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen - Rif Mountains - Morocco - hiking trail to the Akchour Waterfalls - Journal of Nomads

Morocco has some gorgeous waterfalls…

When Cynthia and I were traveling from region to region, we sometimes felt like we were traveling from one country to another.

hiking mount Toubkal - Trekking jbel Toubkal - Toubkal the highest peak in Morocco - journal of nomads

Morocco also has some beautiful snow covered mountain peaks…

If you love nature and hiking as much as we do, you definitely won’t be disappointed in Morocco! I would suggest reading our hiking guides to Morocco:

  • The Complete Guide to Imlil and Hiking Mount Toubkal in Morocco
  • Rock climbing and other fun things to do in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir
  • How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen

Rock climbing and other fun things worth doing in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir - Things to do in Todra Gorges - Morocco - Hikes in Todra Gorges - Journal of Nomads

If you love mountain hikes, you’ll have a lot of fun near the Todra gorges…

21. Morocco has a very varied culture

Morocco is a mix of cultures and ethnic groups. I love to say that the Moroccan culture is a rich tapestry that weaves tons of different influences and traditions together.

Morocco is a mix of Berber, Arabian and European cultural influences. This also reflects itself in the language. Moroccan Arabic blends words of Berber origin with classical Arabic. French and Spanish words are also assimilated in the colloquial language.

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Portrait Moroccan man - Journal of Nomads

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Photo Moroccan woman in High Atlas Mountains - Journal of Nomads

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When we were traveling through the villages of the Atlas Mountains, we saw elderly women who wore the traditional Berber facial tattoos, a rich heritage of the Berber traditions that were widespread around the country before the invasion of the Arabs.

Morocco is a melting pot of ethnicities so it’s not uncommon to meet people with blue eyes and blonde or ginger hair in the Rif mountains.

People of Morocco - Journal of Nomads

The Moroccans living in the desert near Merzouga have a very different culture than those living in big cities…  

22. Morocco doesn’t have a tipping culture

If you’re worried about whether or not you should leave a tip to your waiter in Morocco, don’t be. Moroccans don’t have a tipping culture as it exists in America.

It will still be appreciated if you do though and you could always leave 10 or 20 MAD on the table if you enjoyed the service.

Gran Cafe de Paris Tangier Morocco - City Guide to Tangier - Journal of Nomads

In cafes or restaurants, waiters won’t necessarily expect a tip…

23. Moroccans are very expressive and talk with their hands

Moroccans are some of the most expressive and passionate people I have met. They can sometimes talk very loudly and might swing their hands in the air while doing so. They might seem like they’re angry or arguing but they’re probably only having a casual everyday conversation.

Once, Cynthia and I were in our hostel in Essaouira when we heard a Moroccan lady shouting from the neighboring roof. Another woman popped her head from another rooftop terrace and they started shouting at each other while wildly swinging their hands in the air.

We asked the hostel owner what they were talking about with the most incredulous look on our faces. Oh them? They’re simply talking about fish he replied. I swear, I never laughed so hard!

Things to see and do in Essaouira – The complete guide to Morocco's windy city - Essouira port - Journal of Nomads

These are just a few tips fo Morocco. Is there anything you would add to this list? What are the things you wished you knew before visiting Morocco? Let us know in the comments below.

*This article contains affiliate links. If you book a hotel/hostel or purchase one of the recommended products through our website, we’ll receive a small commission at no extra costs for you. This way you’re helping us writing more informative and awesome guides like this. Thank you!

23 travel tips for Morocco - Everything You Need to Know Before You Go - journal of nomads

Read the rest of our articles for more travel tips for Morocco:

  • The Ultimate Travel Guide to Backpacking in Morocco
  • The 17 best places to visit in Morocco
  • Morocco Itinerary – Discover the best places in Morocco in 7 days
  • Renting a Car in Morocco – Everything you Need to Know
  • 23 Travel Tips for Morocco – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
  • Is Morocco Safe? – Safety Guide to Morocco
  • Planning to travel to Morocco during Ramadan? Read this first:

       How is it to travel to Morocco during Ramadan?

  • Morocco travel costs: Morocco on a budget – How much does it cost to travel and live in Morocco ?
  • Everything you need to know about visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
  • How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen (Morocco)
  • How to plan a desert trip to Merzouga and other fun things to do in the Sahara
  • Surfing in Morocco – A Guide to the Best Surfing Spots in the Country
  • How to visit Paradise Valley Agadir
  • FEZ: In Photos: Visiting the Leather Tanneries of Fez
  • TANGIER: Top Things to Do in Tangier – The Ultimate City Guide
  • ESSAOUIRA: An In-Depth Guide to Essaouira, Morocco’s windy city
  • CHEFCHAOUEN: 12 Top Things to do in and around Chefchaouen, the Blue City of Morocco
  • RABAT: 10 things to see and do in Rabat
  • MEKNES: The honest guide to Meknes and Volubilis– What to see and what to skip
  • MARRAKECH: What to do in Marrakech – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City
  • CASABLANCA: What to see in Casablanca in two days – Top Things To Do in Casablanca
  • AGADIR: Top Things to Do in Agadir – Our Guide to the Surfing city

MOROCCO TRAVEL RESOURCES:

  • Accommodation & Lodging in Morocco: Booking.com
  • Car rental in Morocco
  • Travel Insurance for Morocco: World Nomads   or SafetyWing  
  • Best Books set in Morocco – 10 Great Novels about Morocco   
  • Lonely Planet Morocco (Travel Guide)
  • The Rough Guide to Morocco (Travel Guide with Free eBook) (Rough Guides)
  • Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook & Dictionary

8 thoughts on “23 Travel Tips for Morocco – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go”

Another really helpful article!

Thank you, happy to hear 🙂

Hey Cynthia As local guide from morocco, i found my self learning from this wonderful completable article, and comparing what i use to say to our guests to what you wrote. Thanks a lot for sharing this Regards Ibra

Thank you Ibra, I’m really glad to hear this! Best wishes, Cynthia

Incredibly interesting review, I love reading your blog! Thanks for the tips, it’s important to know that I need to ask permission before shooting. Good luck to you!

Thank you! And yes, the Moroccans don’t like it when you bluntly point your camera at them. They appreciate it if you first have a chat with them and then ask for their permission. Enjoy your trip to Morocco!

Having been to Morocco and planning another trip, I found your article both informative and very much a nostalgic reminder of things I saw. What bothered me a lot is that, among the mentions of all of the different cultures that contributed to the mosaic of Morocco, there was no mention of Jewish culture and sites. Nevertheless, Jews contributed greatly to the construction of a number of cities, are represented in a number of buildings, and are considered by Moroccans to be an important part of their heritage. Even though the present Jewish community is very small, evidence of their contributions remain and should not be ignored.

Hi Shoshana, we don’t ignore their contributions. We write about it in our city guides like f.eg. Chefchaouen. 🙂

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Touring In Morocco

The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Morocco awaits! With its bustling markets, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, it’s the perfect destination for the traveler seeking a unique experience. From camel rides in the Sahara to exploring ancient medinas, you’ll find something for everyone in this vibrant country. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Morocco has to offer – an unforgettable journey is just around the corner! You don’t have to break the bank to experience Morocco either. This cost-effective destination can be enjoyed on any budget. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or affordable hostels, there are plenty of options available so you can tailor your trip exactly how you want it. And with its easy access from Europe and North America, getting there couldn’t be more convenient. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Morocco today with our travel guide!

Morocco flag and travel guide

Introduction

Welcome to Morocco! This North African country is filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and centuries of history waiting to be explored. With its diverse geography ranging from snow-capped mountains in the High Atlas range to stunning deserts along the Atlantic coast, you can expect a variety of climates throughout the year. And as for culture, Morocco is bursting with vibrant music, delicious food, and traditional art that will give you an unforgettable experience. So let’s dive into this incredible country and take a closer look at its past and present.

From its rugged mountains to its vast deserts, Morocco’s geography is full of wonders waiting to be explored! This country is situated in the North African region and has a total area of 446,550 square kilometers. It is bordered by Algeria, Mauritania, and Western Sahara as well as the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In terms of physiographic regions, Morocco has an immense mountain range called the Rif Mountains which stretch from the north to the northeast of this country.

The Atlas Mountains are located in central Morocco and form a southward arch towards the southwest. The Middle Atlas range lies between these two major ranges while further south is the Anti-Atlas and High Atlas Mountains which form part of the Saharan region. In terms of lowlands, there are three main basins in Morocco namely the Souss-Massa Basin in the southwestern region; El Jadida Basin along the Atlantic coast; Ouergha basin near Al Hoceima city. With such diverse topography, it’s no wonder that visitors can experience a wide variety of climates throughout their trip!

Experience the diverse climates of Morocco, from its hot deserts to its cool mountaintops! From the Mediterranean coast in the north to the Atlantic Coast in the west, and from the Sahara Desert in the south to its rolling hills and lush valleys, Morocco’s climate offers something for everyone. Here are three ways you can take full advantage:

  • Visit coastal towns like Rabat or Casablanca for a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers.
  • Head into the Atlas Mountains for cooler temperatures year-round, with snow cover during winter months.
  • Explore southeastern Morocco’s deserts for an experience unlike any other – hot days and cold nights!
  • No matter what type of climate you’re looking for, there is something special waiting for you in Morocco – so come explore it all! With such varied conditions across this beautiful country, the culture here is as diverse as its landscapes – so let’s dive into that now.

Discover the incredible culture of Morocco, from its ancient Berber traditions to its vibrant street life! Whether you’re in a bustling city or a small village, you’ll get an immersive experience. Moroccan culture is steeped in tradition and history, with strong influence from the French colonization. You can see this reflected in everything from their dress to their food. For example, couscous and tajine are popular national dishes that have been passed down for generations.

Take some time to explore the fascinating architecture of Morocco’s cities too—marvel at the intricate designs of mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools). And don’t forget to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of local markets—you’ll be sure to find something special here. From traditional music and art to language and cuisine, there’s so much that makes Moroccan culture unique. Transitioning now into a discussion about ‘History’, it’s clear that Morocco has always been a place where different cultures have collided – leaving behind an amazing blend of customs and beliefs.

Dating back centuries, Morocco has been at the crossroads of various empires and civilizations, resulting in a rich history filled with stories of conquest, trade, and religious growth. From the ancient Roman Empire to the Islamic dynasties that followed, Morocco’s history is full of fascinating tales that bring visitors from all around the world. The country has also played an important role in global events such as World War II and its aftermath. With each passing era, Morocco has been shaped by different cultures and beliefs, making it a truly unique destination to explore.

As you learn more about its past, you’ll find yourself captivated by its diverse heritage. From archaeological sites to traditional villages, there are many ways to experience Moroccan history firsthand. And no matter where you go or what time period you choose to visit, you’re sure to be inspired by this amazing country’s deep-rooted culture and traditions. So now that you know about the historical background of this wonderful land – when’s the best time for your next adventure?

Deciding when to visit Morocco can be tricky. The best time to go is typically spring or fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds, although it’s still quite popular during these months. On the flip side, summertime can be oppressively hot and winter cold at night, making them the worst times to take a trip. No matter where you go, you’ll find plenty of adventure and culture in this vibrant country!

Best time to visit

When planning your trip to Morocco, consider when you want to visit; the time of year can make a big difference in your experience. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Morocco is in spring and fall. During these seasons temperatures are mild, which makes exploring the country significantly more pleasant than during summer’s scorching heat or winter’s chilly winds.

In spring (March-May), days are mostly sunny with occasional rain showers that bring life to the desert landscape and blooming flowers to gardens. This season also coincides with cultural festivals such as the International Film Festival of Marrakech and the Timitar Festival of Gnawa Music , providing ample entertainment options for travelers. Fall (September-November) brings an even more vibrant atmosphere due to its harvest season when locals celebrate their crops with festivities. The air is fresh and temperatures range from cool at night to enjoy warmth during day hours.

No matter what time of year you choose, there’s always something unique waiting for you in Morocco; jump into this fascinating culture and let it show you its wild beauty!

The worst time to visit

However, it’s also important to know the worst time to visit Morocco. The summer months of July and August are usually the hottest and driest, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits. This can make sightseeing and outdoor activities difficult. Similarly, winter can be cold and wet in many parts of Morocco as well, making travel more difficult during this season. Therefore, if you’re looking to explore all that this beautiful country has to offer without too much heat or rain interference, spring, and fall are generally the best times for a visit.

Where to Go

If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, then Morocco is the place for you! With a wealth of unique cities to explore, it can be hard to know where to start; however, Marrakech, Fez , Meknes, Chefchaouen , and Essaouira are among the top destinations in the country. Each city offers something different – Marrakech has vibrant souks and markets full of local products; Fez is steeped in ancient history and culture; Meknes is known for its grand gates and palaces; Chefchaouen has charming blue-washed buildings; while Essaouira has a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of beaches.

Marrakech is a city of vibrant colors and culture – an absolute must-see during your trip to Morocco! As you explore the souks, visit the medina, and take in all the sights and sounds of this ancient city, you’ll be captivated by its incredible energy. Here, you can find anything from traditional Moroccan carpets and ceramics to handcrafted jewelry. The smells of spices will fill the air as merchants try to entice you with their wares. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies like tajines or couscous while visiting; these dishes are made with fresh ingredients that will linger on your taste buds long after you’ve left Marrakech. From sunup to sundown, there’s something for everyone in this city – no matter what it is that ignites your wanderlust spirit!

The hustle and bustle of Marrakech will leave you feeling energized yet ready for a change of pace. Thankfully, Fez is just a short drive away! With its narrow alleyways lined with traditional shops, cafes, and workshops selling everything from leather goods to pottery pieces – it’s easy to get lost in this enchanting city. The old town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible architecture which includes numerous palaces, mosques, and madrasas each filled with fascinating history. Exploring these historical sites surrounded by lively markets will give you an insight into traditional Moroccan life that cannot be found anywhere else – so don’t miss out on this unique experience!

Fez is an enchanting city full of history and charm that beckons your exploratory spirit! The city has long been a center for culture, art, and learning with its ancient medina – the world’s largest car-free urban area. With narrow cobbled streets lined with vibrant merchants selling goods from spices to rugs , Fez is sure to captivate even the most experienced traveler. Exploring this city will take you back in time and give you a chance to experience what life was like centuries ago.

From the bustling souks (markets) of the old Medina to the stunning architecture of its mosques and palaces, Fez is a place where travelers can immerse themselves in Moroccan culture. For those looking for a taste of modern-day charm, head over to Ville Nouvelle – an area built by French occupiers in 1912 filled with chic cafes and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine. No matter how you explore it, Fez will leave you feeling charmed by its beauty and inspired by its rich history! Onward now to Meknes – another one of Morocco’s imperial cities!

Meknes is a stunning imperial city that’ll delight your senses with its vibrant culture and architecture! It’s one of the original four imperial cities in Morocco , and it was once the capital of the country. The city has an impressive walled medina, lined with bazaars and ancient sites. Meknes is also home to some beautiful gardens, and there are several palaces throughout the area as well. The architecture is quite unique, mixing traditional Moroccan style with Spanish influence from when Spain occupied part of Morocco.

Visiting Meknes can be a very rewarding experience for those who want to take in all that this gorgeous city has to offer. From exploring its winding alleyways to admiring its grand monuments, you won’t want to miss out on all that this incredible destination offers. With so much history and culture around every corner, Meknes will captivate you from start to finish. Exploring this amazing city will surely give you an unforgettable Moroccan adventure!

From marveling at Meknes’ stunning sights to taking in its rich history, it’s time now for another journey: heading north towards Chefchaouen!

Chefchaouen

Take a journey to the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen , a unique Moroccan city that’ll captivate you with its stunning beauty and relaxed atmosphere. This city is known for its well-preserved medina, or old town, which has been painted in shades of blue for centuries. Whether you’re exploring the narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops and cafes, admiring the beautiful mosques tucked away in secret alleys, or simply watching locals go about their daily routines from one of the many rooftop terraces, there’s no shortage of fascinating things to do here. The laid-back vibe makes Chefchaouen an ideal place to spend some time exploring and soaking up the culture. With all it has to offer, this charming little city is sure to leave you wanting more. To discover yet another charm of Morocco’s cities head over to Essaouira next.

Surrounded by miles of undisturbed beaches and fortified by towering city walls, Essaouira is a captivating port town with plenty of unique attractions. Enjoy the sights and sounds of an authentic Moroccan fishing village as you explore awe-inspiring Old Town streets. Take in stunning views from the top of the ancient ramparts, or wander through bustling bazaars to discover handmade crafts, carpets, and artwork. Unwind on one of the pristine beaches while savoring fresh seafood dishes prepared daily by local fishermen. Relaxed vibes and a slower pace make it easy to lose track of time in Essaouira—you won’t want to leave! Next up on your Morocco adventure is Ouarzazate, a vibrant desert oasis known for its impressive film sets and historic Kasbahs.

From the coastal town of Essaouira, take a road trip south to Ouarzazate in the Saharan Desert. Nestled between stark red mountains and rolling desert sands, this city is an oasis for travelers looking for adventure. Here is a list of must-dos when visiting Ouarzazate:

  • Visit Taourirt Kasbah – This impressive kasbah was once the home of the Glaoui family and has been featured in many films since then. Enjoy exploring its maze-like corridors and discovering hidden courtyards filled with vibrant colors.
  • Take a camel ride through the dunes – Get up close and personal with the desert landscape while riding atop a majestic camel on a tour through Erg Chebbi or Merzouga Sand Dunes near Ouarzazate.
  • Visit Ait Benhaddou – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Morocco’s most famous cities and boasts mud-brick homes, towering kasbahs, and stunning views of the surrounding mountainside. Don’t forget to stop at Café des Sables for lunch!
  • Climb Jebel Sargho – Get your heart pumping as you summit Jebel Sargho, one of Morocco’s highest peaks located just outside city limits where you can take in breathtaking views from the top.

Ouarzazate offers something unique to every traveler who visits its beautiful desert landscape – now it’s time to explore even further into the Sahara Desert!

Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is a vast expanse of dunes and valleys that will take your breath away. With its golden sand, the desert stretches far in every direction, offering an unparalleled view of serenity and splendor. Soak up the sun’s rays as you trek through ancient pathways and explore the stunning landscape. Experience true tranquility as you watch the sunset against the horizon – it’s an unforgettable experience!

Discover a world unlike any other as you explore the mighty Sahara Desert. Whether you choose to hike to a picturesque oasis or cruise across sand dunes in a four-wheel drive, an adventure awaits in this majestic place. And for those looking for even more thrills, why not try camel riding or sandboarding? No matter what type of journey you embark on, one thing is certain: The Sahara Desert won’t disappoint. From here, take your next steps toward exploring the High Atlas Mountains!

High Atlas Mountains

Experience the raw beauty of the High Atlas Mountains as you explore its rugged terrain. With towering peaks reaching up to 13,671 feet in height, this mountain range is the highest in North Africa and provides a stunning backdrop for any adventure. From skiing and snowboarding during winter months to trekking and mountaineering in summer, there is no shortage of outdoor activities available year-round. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or simply want to take in the majestic views, a visit to the High Atlas Mountains will provide an unforgettable experience.

The High Atlas Mountains also offer numerous cultural attractions that are sure to captivate visitors from around the world. Visit small Berber villages and learn about their rich history while sampling traditional dishes like couscous or tajine. Explore colorful markets where you can find unique souvenirs or barter with locals over goods like handmade rugs and pottery. As you journey through this breathtaking landscape, take time to appreciate its culture and customs – it’s an experience unlike any other! With so much to see and do within these majestic mountains, your Moroccan vacation is sure to be one for the books. Next up: explore Morocco’s Mediterranean coast!

Mediterranean coast

Discover the stunning beauty of Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, with its picturesque beaches and vibrant coastal towns. From the cosmopolitan city of Tangier to the historic Agadir fishing port, there is something for everyone along this stretch of coastline. The crystal clear waters, golden sand beaches , and lush vegetation make it a paradise for sun-seekers, beach lovers, and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or just want to relax in style, Morocco’s Mediterranean coast has plenty to offer.

Take in a captivating sunset on the terrace of one of the many charming cafés that line the waterfront promenades or explore a traditional Berber village nestled among rugged hillsides covered in wildflowers. Adventure seekers can try their hand at sailing, surfing, or kitesurfing; while those who prefer to stay on land can go hiking through cedar forests or take a guided jeep tour across sand dunes. With so much to see and do, Morocco’s Mediterranean coast provides an unforgettable experience no matter what kind of traveler you are! Moving on from here, next up we’ll discuss what else is available for travelers along this beautiful stretch of coastline.

Experience the best of Morocco by exploring its bustling souks, going on a thrilling hike, and spending some time at the beach. Learn about Moroccan culture by soaking up local traditions and sampling the delicious food. All this and more await you in this beautiful destination – so come explore it today!

Explore the souks

Head to the souks and you’ll find yourself in a bustling, vibrant atmosphere filled with sights, sounds, and smells. Wander through the winding alleyways of Morocco’s traditional marketplaces and you’ll have something to please every sense. From hand-crafted rugs and jewelry to exotic spices and leather goods, these bazaars offer an array of unique treasures from all around the world. The hustle and bustle will transport you away from your everyday life as bartering ensues between merchants selling their wares. Make sure to take some time out for a cup of mint tea with locals who are more than happy to share their stories with travelers – it’s an experience not easily forgotten! With plenty of cultures, history, food, music, art, and color around every corner, exploring Morocco’s souks is truly a magical experience that will leave lasting memories. Get ready for some outdoor adventure because next up is going hiking!

Put on your hiking boots and come explore the great outdoors of Morocco! From the majestic Atlas Mountains to the bustling coastal towns, there’s something for everyone in this stunning country. Stroll through lush valleys dotted with olive groves and citrus orchards, and take in breathtaking views of winding rivers and rolling hills. Soak in some sun as you traverse ancient trails lined with wildflowers. As you journey further into the wilderness, you’ll be rewarded with a rich cultural experience full of friendly locals who are happy to share their stories with travelers. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will take your breath away!

Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, hiking is one of the best ways to discover all that Morocco has to offer:

  • Enjoy unique wildlife sightings such as Barbary macaques, gazelles, eagles, lizards, and more.
  • Take part in traditional activities like herding goats or picking fruit from nearby farms.
  • Visit centuries-old Berber villages hidden in remote mountain locations.

These are just a few of the outdoor experiences waiting for you – so put on your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure! With its diverse landscapes and welcoming locals, Morocco offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore nature at its finest. So go ahead – immerse yourself in this spectacular land of beauty and culture; you won’t regret it! Now it’s time to head to the beach – prepare yourself for even more fun in the sun!

Spend time at the beach

Come to Morocco for a one-of-a-kind beach experience! With its stunning Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, you can bask in the sun while exploring tranquil coves, relax on white sand beaches, or take a dip in crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to chill out with friends, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities in this paradise by the sea. From water sports and sunset cruises to exploring traditional fishing villages and exotic markets, there’s something for everyone at the beach. So slip away from reality and let your worries melt away as you soak up some sun in this beautiful country. Take advantage of all that Morocco has to offer – it’s a truly unique experience that you won’t soon forget!

Ready for something even more special? Ditch the crowds and learn about Moroccan culture – a whole new world awaits.

Learn about Moroccan culture

Experience the captivating culture of Morocco and immerse yourself in its unique traditions! From learning about traditional handicrafts to exploring local markets and experiencing a bustling medina, there are plenty of ways to explore Moroccan culture. Here are some tips on how you can get a taste of what makes this country so special:

  • Visit an authentically designed riad – These traditional homes feature intricate tile work, cozy courtyards, and elaborate decorations that make them perfect for lounging or entertaining guests.
  • Take in a show at the Djemaa el Fna – This famous city square has been the center of Marrakech’s nightlife for centuries. Every evening, it is filled with musicians, food stalls, snake charmers, and more.
  • Attend a cooking class – Learn how to prepare flavorful tagines using local ingredients while getting an inside look into Moroccan cuisine .
  • Experience an authentic hammam – Hammams are public baths that have been used by locals since ancient times as places to socialize and relax. Enjoy steamy saunas followed by a refreshing massage with natural oils and salts.

By taking part in these activities, you’ll be able to truly appreciate all the unique aspects of Morocco’s culture. And after getting your cultural fix, why not sample some of the delicious local dishes?

Sample the Moroccan food

Sink your teeth into Morocco’s flavorful cuisine and savor every bite! From traditional tagines to couscous, Moroccan food has something for everyone. The country’s famous national dish is a fragrant stew cooked in an earthenware pot called a tagine. This often includes vegetables, meats, and spices like saffron or cumin. Couscous is another favorite which consists of steamed semolina grains served with veggies or meat. Street vendors are known for their delicious crepes filled with beef or chicken, olives, tomatoes, and onions – they’re the perfect snack on the go! Delicate pastry desserts such as baklava and chakra are also popular and make great gifts to bring home from your trip. Taste the rich flavors of Morocco – you won’t be sorry!

From exploring the medinas to camel rides in the Sahara Desert, getting around Morocco offers endless possibilities for adventure.

Getting Around

Getting around Morocco is a breeze. You can travel by plane, train, bus, taxi, or grand taxi – all giving you the opportunity to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture. Whichever method of travel you choose, it’ll be an easy and convenient way to get where you need to go.

Flying to Morocco is easy and affordable, with plenty of direct flights from the US and Europe. You can choose to fly into one of the four main international airports in Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, or Tangier. From there, you have a few options for getting around: trains, buses, and taxis. Flying is a great way to get around quickly and easily:

  • Choose your destination city – Casablanca has bustling markets while Marrakech offers more cultural sights like the Jemaa El-Fnaa Square .
  • Arrange your flight – look for low-cost carriers like Ryanair or check out online travel agencies like Expedia or Travelocity for deals on major airlines such as Air France or British Airways.
  • Book your tickets – make sure you’re aware of any visa requirements before booking your tickets!

Flying is an efficient way to explore Morocco; it’s quick and convenient so you can maximize your time in this amazing country! Plus, if you plan ahead there are usually good deals available on flights from all over the world so you can save some money too. Now that you know about flying in Morocco, let’s take a look at how to get around by train…

Taking the train is a great way to explore Morocco and get around in comfort. With high-speed rail lines connecting all major cities, you can traverse the country with ease. Travelers also have access to overnight trains for longer trips, winding through stunning vistas and providing both an incredible view of Morocco and a comfortable way to cover long distances without having to stay in hotels or break up travel plans.

The ticketing system is straightforward and offers travelers discounts on certain routes while reducing prices for children under 12 years old. You can purchase tickets online or directly at the station – reservations are recommended but not always necessary depending on your destination. Plus, many trains offer free Wi-Fi onboard so you can stay connected during your journey! All in all, traveling by train is an ideal way to experience Morocco’s beauty while still being able to relax and enjoy the ride.

With that said, bus travel may be a better option if you’re looking for something more cost-effective or if you plan on making lots of stops along your route.

Exploring Morocco by bus provides an economical way to get around while taking in the sights, sounds, and culture of the country. Advantages of traveling by bus include:

  • The ability to observe locals going about their daily lives
  • The opportunity to experience different flavors of Morocco’s beautiful scenery
  • A chance to meet fellow travelers from all over the world.

Taking a bus ride across Morocco is a great way to explore its diverse landscape and dive into its multicultural society. Plus, you can avoid spending money on accommodation as some routes take you overnight! Ready for your next adventure? Let’s hop aboard a taxi and go!

Hop in a taxi and feel the wind on your face as you explore Morocco in a whole new way! Taxis offer an easy, convenient way to get around the country. Whether you’re traveling from city to city or just need to cover a few blocks, taxis are affordable and often more comfortable than riding in a bus. You can take local petit taxis (small cars) for short trips within cities, or grand taxis (larger vehicles that usually seat six people) for longer trips between cities.

It’s important to note that grand taxis don’t operate like normal cabs—they only leave when they’re full of passengers, so be prepared to have some extra time added onto your journey if there aren’t enough passengers ready at once. Negotiating fares is common practice and should always be done before getting into any type of taxi. With that being said, hopping in one of these cozy little cars with locals is sure to make your Moroccan adventure even more memorable! Onward now – let’s explore grand taxis next!

By grand taxi

Grand taxis are a great way to get around Morocco for longer trips between cities – they’re comfortable and can take you to your destination in no time! While the cost of these taxis may be slightly higher than other methods of transport, it is often worth the convenience. Grand taxis are typically shared by multiple passengers going in the same direction, which means that you will have an opportunity to meet locals and hear stories about their lives. Plus, you won’t need to worry about navigating or waiting in long lines for public transportation. Traveling by grand taxi is a great way to explore Morocco while still getting where you need to go quickly and efficiently.

The best thing about traveling by grand taxi is that several providers offer fixed fares for certain routes, so you can plan out your journey ahead of time without having any surprises when it comes time to pay. Just make sure that all parties agree on the price before you set off, as this ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes time for payment. With that said, let’s move on to some tips for traveling to Morocco!

Tips for Traveling to Morocco

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Learn some basic Arabic phrases so you can communicate with locals, be respectful of Moroccan culture and customs, bargain at the souks for souvenirs, always drink bottled water, and pack light. With these tips in mind, your time in Morocco is sure to be memorable.

Learn some basic Arabic phrases

Greeting locals in Arabic is a great way to make your Moroccan travel experience even more enjoyable – so let’s get started! Learning some basic phrases, such as “hello” and “thank you” will go a long way in helping you connect with the local culture. You may not be able to learn enough of the language to have full conversations, but knowing simple phrases can make all the difference when it comes to being respectful. For example, saying “as-salamu alaykum,”which means “peace be upon you,”is an appropriate greeting that shows respect for locals. Additionally, learning phrases like “shukran,”which means thank you, allows you to express gratitude in a meaningful way. Taking the time to learn these few words of Arabic could really enhance your travel experience and make it much more memorable. Moving forward then into being respectful of Moroccan culture…

Be respectful of Moroccan culture

Immersing yourself in the culture of Morocco can be an incredibly rewarding experience – but it’s important to remember to always show respect. Here are a few key cultural expectations to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly – especially when visiting mosques and holy sites. This means avoiding short shorts, tank tops, and low-cut shirts.
  • When visiting rural areas, always dress conservatively for women. Covering your shoulders will help you avoid unwanted attention from locals.
  • Respect religious customs – specifically non-Muslim customs such as Ramadan fasting or Islamic prayers. Refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, or making loud noises during these periods of worship.
  • Be mindful of local customs – this includes being aware of how much physical contact is acceptable between men and women in public spaces (it’s not recommended). Additionally, it is considered polite to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.

Being mindful of these cultural nuances while traveling can ensure that your experience is both respectful and enjoyable! Transitioning into the next section about bargaining in the souks should come easy after being mindful of cultural norms – it’s time to get shopping!

Bargain in the souks

Shopping in the souks of Morocco can be a thrilling experience – but don’t forget to bargain for the best price! You’ll find amazing items like leather goods, spices, carpets, jewelry, and clothing. Don’t just accept the first offer given to you; it’s expected that you will barter with shopkeepers for a better price. It’s important to stay polite and friendly while bargaining, as this is an essential part of Moroccan culture. And while haggling is part of the fun, make sure not to be disrespectful or come off too aggressive; it won’t get you anywhere. When you’ve reached a deal that works for both parties, relish in your victory as you walk away with a great souvenir at a great price. Next up: drinking bottled water!

Drink bottled water

When visiting Morocco, make sure to always drink bottled water – it’s the safest way to stay hydrated! Bottled water is widely available throughout the country at stores, restaurants, and street vendors. It’s also common knowledge that taps water in Morocco is not safe for drinking due to high levels of bacteria and other contaminants.

Drinking bottled water has many benefits: it can prevent gastrointestinal issues; it helps keep you cool in hot climates; and most importantly, it allows you to enjoy all the amazing sights and sounds of Morocco worry-free! With that said, packing light – including a reusable bottle for refills – will ensure you have enough space for souvenirs and mementos from your trip.

Pack light and bring a reusable bottle so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about packing too many souvenirs. There’s no need to overpack for Morocco – just bring the basics! A few changes of clothes, some comfortable shoes, and toiletries should suffice for most trips. Bring a lightweight backpack or day bag to carry all your essentials easily. This will help you move around without feeling weighed down by excess baggage. Plus, it’ll be easier to explore different parts of the country without having to worry about lugging heavy bags around with you. With just the right amount of items packed in a lightweight bag, you’ll be ready to get out there and start exploring Morocco!

By packing light and bringing only what you need for your trip, not only will it save time at check-in but it will also save money on extra baggage fees from airlines. And when it comes time to head home, you won’t have to worry about paying additional fees for overweight luggage or having to purchase extra boxes for souvenirs – leaving more room in your budget for other experiences while traveling! So remember: pack light and leave plenty of space in your suitcase (or backpack) for all the wonderful memories that await during your Moroccan adventure.

Are you looking to plan a trip to Morocco but have no idea what it may cost? Well, you’ve come to the right place! We’re here to break down the average costs of a trip so that you can plan your vacation without worrying about breaking the bank. So let’s take a look at how much it will cost for you to travel to Morocco!

How much does it cost to travel to Morocco?

Planning a trip to Morocco doesn’t have to break the bank – with careful budgeting, you can explore this vibrant country without blowing your budget. Prices for food and basic items like toothpaste or shampoo are quite reasonable in most parts of Morocco so your biggest expense will likely be accommodation. Depending on the type of accommodation you choose, prices can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury 5-star resorts. If you plan ahead and book early, you can often find good deals on flights and hotels that won’t drain your wallet. With a bit of research and careful planning, it’s possible to enjoy a trip to Morocco without breaking the bank! And when it comes time to find a place to stay during your visit, there are plenty of great options available.

Accommodation

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Morocco, you’ve got plenty of options. From hostels and hotels to camping, there are accommodations that fit every budget, so don’t worry about not finding something suitable. You can also choose from traditional Moroccan riads or kasbahs if you want a more authentic experience.

Where to Stay in Morocco

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, Morocco has a stay option that’s perfect for you! From rustic camping and caravanning to luxury all-inclusive resorts, there are plenty of places to rest your head during your visit. Whether your goal is a relaxing getaway or an adventure in the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re more into the local vibe, you can find traditional Moroccan riads with rooftop terraces and ornate courtyards — perfect for experiencing the culture up close. And no matter where you stay, stunning views of deserts, mountains, and oases are sure to make it memorable. When it comes to accommodation in Morocco, the possibilities are truly endless. Now let’s move on to visas and currency when traveling in this exciting country!

Visas and Currency

If you are planning a trip to Morocco, it’s important to know what kind of visa you need and what currency is used. To make things easier, here’s a quick rundown of visas and currency in Morocco so you can plan your trip without any hassle. You’ll need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling, and the local currency is the Moroccan Dirham . Make sure you familiarize yourself with exchange rates and plan accordingly!

What do I need to know about visas and currency in Morocco?

You’ll need to familiarize yourself with both the visa requirements and currency exchange when planning a trip to Morocco. * Make sure you have an up-to-date passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

  • Find out if you need a visa in advance or if you can obtain one upon arrival in Morocco.
  • Research the currency before you go to avoid surprises when exchanging money.
  • Compare exchange rates offered by banks, kiosks, and other money changers for better deals.
  • Familiarize yourself with local customs to ensure a more enjoyable experience in Morocco.

Visas and currency are just two of the details involved in planning a trip to Morocco, but they should be taken seriously before traveling so you don’t run into any problems or delays during your vacation. With some preparation and research beforehand, getting help from locals once you arrive should be smooth sailing!

Getting help

If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Morocco, don’t worry. You can get some assistance from the local people, who are friendly and willing to lend a helping hand. If you’re lost or have any other issues, try asking one of the locals for help. Additionally, if you’re looking for more specialized assistance, there are many tour guides available who can provide valuable information and guidance throughout your trip.

What if I need help while I’m in Morocco?

You can always find assistance if you need it while in Morocco; the locals are more than happy to help. Whether it’s directions, recommendations, or simply a friendly face, there is no shortage of people eager to lend a hand. You may even find that your hostel staff or hotel concierge will be able to provide invaluable information and advice about the area. Or perhaps you just need someone to chat with – many locals love talking about their culture and country so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation! Additionally, many cities have tourist offices which can often provide valuable resources for travelers looking for help navigating their way around Morocco. Whatever your needs, don’t be afraid to ask for help – you’ll likely find plenty of friendly faces willing and able to assist you during your travels in Morocco!

You’ve now got all the info you need to get started planning your trip to Morocco with our travel guide! With its stunning beaches, unique culture, and world-class attractions, there’s something in this country for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-timer, you won’t regret making the journey. Make sure to budget accordingly and plan ahead so that you can make the most of your time in Morocco. Don’t forget to try some of their delicious local cuisines while you’re there! So what are you waiting for? Start packing and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Book the best Morocco all-inclusive tours!

Marrakech tours.

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Tangier tours

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Agadir tours

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Casablanca tours

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  • 3 days tour from Fes to Merzouga desert
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  • 6 days tour from Fes to Marrakech

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Travel Guide Morocco

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For Western visitors, Morocco holds an immediate and enduring fascination. Though just an hour’s ride on the ferry from Spain , it seems very far from Europe, with a culture that is almost wholly unfamiliar. Travel to Morocco and you will uncover a country of arid deserts, spice-laden souks, and a melting pot of Berber and Arabian cultures.

Morocco travel facts

Where to go in morocco, best time to go to morocco.

  • How to get to Morocco

How to get around Morocco

10 best places to visit in morocco, morocco travel itineraries, accommodation in morocco, food and drink in morocco, culture and etiquette in morocco, travel visa requirements for morocco, shopping in morocco, outdoor activities in morocco, arabs and berbers.

Throughout the country, despite the years of French and Spanish colonial rule and the presence of modern and cosmopolitan cities like Rabat and Casablanca , a more distant past constantly makes its presence felt. Fez , perhaps the most beautiful of all Arab cities, maintains a life still rooted in medieval times, when a Moroccan kingdom stretched from Senegal to northern Spain.

In the mountains of the Atlas and the Rif , it’s still possible to draw up tribal maps of the Berber population. As a backdrop to all this, the country’s physical make-up is extraordinary: from the Mediterranean coast, through four mountain ranges, to the empty sand and scrub of the Sahara . Check out our Morocco travel guide for everything you need to know before you go.

  • Size and location: Located on the northwest coast of Africa, Morocco is slightly smaller than France and Spain, and slightly larger than the US state of California at 446,550 square kilometres (722,550 sq km including the Western Sahara).
  • Population: 37 million.
  • Religion: Nearly 99 percent of Moroccans are Muslim, with 1 percent Christian and a tiny minority (an estimated 6000 people) Jewish.
  • Languages: Arabic, Berber (Tarfit, Tamazight and Tashelhaït) and French are officially recognised languages. Spanish is still widely spoken in the north, and English is increasingly spoken by young people, especially in tourist areas.
  • Politics: Morocco gained independence from French and Spanish rule on March 2, 1956. The head of state is King Mohammed VI, who succeeded his father Hassan II on July 30, 1999. The government is chosen from an elected legislature and is currently run by Prime Minister Saadeddine Othmani of the moderate Islamist PJD (Party of Justice and Development). The main opposition parties are the Istiqlal (Independence) Party, Morocco’s oldest political group, and the RNI (National Rally of Independents).
  • Education: The literacy rate is 68.5 percent (78.6 percent for men, 58.8 percent for women).

With relaxing beach resorts on the coast, beautiful ancient cities inland, stunning landscapes of the Rif and Atlas mountains, and the eerie solitude of the Sahara desert, visiting Morocco won’t leave you disappointed.

Agadir, the Souss and Anti-Atlas

To experience the best of Morocco’s coast and beaches in the north, head for the cities of Tangier , Asilah , and Larache. For the best coastal spots towards the south, El Jadida , Essaouria , and Sidi Ifni are the standout contenders. Agadir is the main package-tour destination, and whilst nothing special, it provides a good base for exploration.

Inland, the famous, and somewhat still medieval cities of Fez and Marrakesh , do not disappoint. The former is richer in terms of monuments, but the latter remains more popular among tourists. Rabat and Casablanca are also major cities of interest, albeit much more modern than the Fez and Marrakesh.

The mountain ranges of the Rif and Atlas provide stunning scenery, and are surprisingly accessible for trekking and exploring . Trekking is most popular around Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest mountain. Hidden away in the Rif mountains, Chefchaouen is arguably Morocco’s prettiest town and best-kept secret .

Beyond the Atlas, there is more exploring to be had in the pre-Sahara. The oases around Skoura, Tinghir, Zagora, Erfoud, and Tata, provide you with a stunning contrast of palmeries and desert horizons.

If you’re looking to explore beyond Morocco's well-known sites and attractions, check out the 7 best places to get off the tourist trail in Morocco .

Discover more places in Morocco

Imlil village in Atlas mountains, Morocco © Shutterstock

  • Agadir, the Souss and Anti-Atlas Travel Guide
  • The Atlantic coast: Rabat to Essaouira Travel Guide
  • Marrakesh Travel Guide
  • The Mediterranean coast and the Rif Travel Guide
  • Morocco history and timeline

The best time to visit Morocco in terms of weather is during spring (around April and May) and early autumn (September and October) when the climate is pleasant and summery throughout the country.

At the height of summer, most of the country, especially the south, is far too hot for day-time exploration. Winter is a good time to explore the south and the Sahara without the overwhelming heat, but in contrast, it can get bitterly cold during the night.

Get more information on the best time to visit Morocco , as well as festivals and public holidays, in our Morocco travel guide.

Unless you take a cruise ship from France, Spain or Gibraltar, the best way of getting to Morocco is to fly into either Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport , or Menara airport in Marrakesh. Fares are generally at their highest around Christmas and the New Year, and July and August. Weekend flights are also more expensive. For the best fares, always book as far in advance as possible.

Travelling to Morocco from Europe

With frequent crossings all-year-round and great deals on tickets, taking the ferry to Morrocco is the smart way to go. Not to mention it's more environmentally responsible than flying. Start your adventure by browsing great value tickets for ferries from Spain to Morocco .

Royal Air Maroc and British Airways run daily flights from Heathrow to Casablanca , and Gatwick to Marrakesh respectively. Indirect flights from most British or Irish airports via London, or European cities such as Paris and Amsterdam, are also an option.

Travelling to Morocco from the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand

Direct flights to Casablanca from New York and Montreal are run by Royal Air Maroc and Air Canada . Indirect flights are available with European carriers by changing at their European hub.

There are no direct flights to Morocco from Australia , New Zealand and South Africa . The only option is to catch a connecting flight in Europe or the Middle East.

See our getting to Morocco page for more information on flights, ferries, and fares.

Getting around Morocco is relatively easy, with plenty of good transport options.

A decent rail network connects the main towns in the north, and the whole country is well connected by a network of nationally-run and private bus companies. The downside is that buses can sometimes be slow and overcrowded.

For shorter journeys, you may prefer to make use of Morocco’s grand taxis. Alternatively, you may wish to have the taxi to yourself, in which case you’ll pay six-times the cost of one place.

Read more on getting around Morocco : in-depth information on flights, buses, cars and trains.

With so much to see and do, deciding where to go in Morocco can be a painstaking task. To help you narrow down the options, we’ve created a list of the ten best places to visit in Morocco.

  • Chefchaouen One of the prettiest and friendliest towns in Morocco, up in the Rif mountains, with a Medina full of pastel-blue houses, perfect for wandering around.
  • Koutoubia Mosque Simple but beautifully proportioned, the Koutoubia Mosque’s minaret is the most perfect in North Africa, and a classic piece of Almohad architecture.

This region in the foothills of the High Atlas offers hidden walks, stunning panoramas and plenty of outdoor activities throughout the year, but is best enjoyed in the cooler months

  • Cascades d’Ouzoud If you visit only one waterfall in Morocco, make it these. The most dramatic of the country’s waterfalls, with overhanging cafés, and a thunderous sheet of water that plunges into the pools below.
  • Fez The most complete medieval city in the Arab world, Fez’s labyrinthine streets conceal ancient souks and iconic monuments, none more so than the exquisitely decorated Medersa Bou Inania.
  • Telouet The abandoned feudal kasbah of the “Lords of the Atlas” is a hugely evocative relic of the time when the infamous Glaoui clan ruled over the Atlas and Marrakesh.
  • Sidi Infi A former Spanish enclave built from scratch in the 1930s with an Art Deco town hall, an Art Deco mosque and even an Art Deco lighthouse.
  • Casablanca Casa’s colonial architecture blends traditional Moroccan designs with French Art Deco into a distinctive style known as Mauresque. The city is also home to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest, and unusually for Morocco, it can be visited by non-Muslims.
  • Asilah A laidback beach resort with an intimate pastel-washed Medina, a first-class international arts festival, and the palace of an old bandit chief. Asilah is also home to one of the best beaches on the northwest coast.
  • Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Visit the remarkable Roman ruins of Volubilis and stay at the holy Islamic town of Moulay Idriss.

Creating an itinerary for your visit to Morocco will depend on what you wish to see and do. Whether it’s immersing yourself in the bustling old cities of Marrakesh and Fez, hiking high up in the Rif and Atlas mountains , or seeking tranquillity in the Sahara desert , you can customise your Morocco trip to suit your needs with our tailor-made trip service .

Meet your Morocco local travel expert

Jana, Local Expert

10 days  / from 2399 USD

Moroccan Cities and Ultimate Sahara

From the cities to the desert - follow the footsteps of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca, discover the blue and whitewashed buildings of Chefchaouen before heading on to Fez and consequently the desert. Stay overnight in a luxurious desert camp before continuing to Marrakech.

Highlights of Morocco

8 days  / from 1899 USD

Highlights of Morocco

For those short on time, this trip allows you to visit the highlights of Morocco in little over a week: the cultural capital Fez, the beautiful city of Chefchaouen, sleeping in a deluxe tent in the desert, as well as discovering Marrakech - it's time to explore Morocco!

Luxurious Morocco

8 days  / from 2242 USD

Luxurious Morocco

Highlights include Rabat, Fes, Chefchaouen, and a luxury desert camp in Merzouga. Privately guided activities with expert local guides allow you to truly get to know Moroccan culture and cuisine. Combine it with the best hotels and riads in the cities and you have the perfect trip.

Iconic tour of Moroccan cities and deserts

15 days  / from 3249 USD

Iconic tour of Moroccan cities and deserts

Morocco is full of wonders and highlights. On this trip, you will experience the real Berber nomadic life in the desert, as well as the cosmopolitan lifestyle many younger Moroccans now enjoy in the cities, from Marrakech to Rabat. Get your dose of culture, history and desert in one trip.

Marrakech, High Atlas and the Agafay desert

5 days  / from 999 USD

Marrakech, High Atlas and the Agafay desert

Morocco in a nutshell: perfect for foodies, your days in Marrakech are spent tasting different delicacies as well as hands-on during a cooking class at a non-profit. Venture outside the city to explore the desert and stay overnight at a desert camp.

Deserts & Marrakech

6 days  / from 1154 USD

Deserts & Marrakech

From the fascinating city of Marrakech through the valleys and on to the desert - this trip packs a lot of highlights into a very short timeframe. Ideal for those that want to discover Morocco in a few days without spending too much time driving around.

Imperial cities of Morocco

9 days  / from 1799 USD

Imperial cities of Morocco

City hopping in Morocco is truly special - discover Casablanca, setting of the movie classic, before heading to Morocco's capital. From the busy streets of Rabat you will continue to the blue and whitewashed buildings of Chefchaouen before heading to Fez and from there to Marrakech.

Moorish Cities and Atlas Mountains - Highlights of Morocco

12 days  / from 1615 USD

Moorish Cities and Atlas Mountains - Highlights of Morocco

A fascinating journey through Morocco, starting in Casablanca. Explore the historical richness of Rabat, enjoy the alpine charm of Ifrane, delve into the medieval allure of Fez, and savor the vibrant souks of Marrakech. Private drivers and city guides will ensure an enriching experience throughout.

Below is an example of our Outdoor Activities itinerary - perfect for the adventurous traveller, with a great variety of exciting outdoor sports to try, all whilst exploring every corner of this beautiful and diverse country. You can see all of our Morocco itineraries here .

Two-week itinerary - Morocco Outdoor Activities

Allow for at least two weeks if you intend on completing every activity on this list.

  • Days 1 - 3: Kitesurfing in Essaouira Simply the best place in the country to try your hand at kitesurfing.

Ride Killers, Anchor Point and other challenging breaks at this relaxed surfers’ hangout.

A wealth of scenic routes cut across the Toubkal Massif.

Hitting the slopes at Oukaïmeden is worth it for the novelty value alone.

M’Hamid is the jumping-off point for camel trips into this remote section of the Sahara.

You could spend days scaling the rocky walls of this dramatic mountain gorge.

  • Days 13 - 15: Sandboarding in the Erg Chebbi

Tizi n test pass Atlas mountains, Morocco

Tizi n test pass in the Atlas mountains, Morocco © Shutterstock

When thinking about where to stay in Morocco, consider that hotels in major cities and resorts are very busy during the summer months, so booking well in advance will allow for more choice. If visiting Morocco in winter, it is wise to check whether a hotel has heating, as it can get very cold and bedding is rarely adequate. With this in mind, there are plenty of excellent accommodation options in Morocco to suit most budgets and needs.

When it comes to Moroccan hotels, you have a choice between unclassified hotels, the cheapest option but often in good locations, and the classified hotels, whose superior prices don’t always guarantee superior quality, so it pays to do some research before booking.

For something unique to Morocco, you may consider staying in a riad or maison d’hôte . These are usually refurbished eighteenth- or nineteenth-century Medina townhouses. Generally more expensive than hotels, riads are a good option if you want to make your stay a lot classier.

Strictly speaking, to be classified as a riad, the house must have a garden, ideally divided into quarters with a central fountain. Townhouses with rooms around a courtyard are known as dars .

Get further information on where to stay in Morocco : types of accommodation, room rates, and how to find a room.

Eating in Morocco

Hearty soups, fragrant tajines, and succulent kebabs are just some of the culinary delights to enjoy when visiting Morocco. A typical starter to a meal is the classic spicy, bean and pasta harira . Tajine is a dish you will find everywhere in Morocco, steam-cooked slowly in an earthenware dish. The classic tajines are lamb with prunes and almonds, and chicken with olives and lemon.

Couscous is another classic Moroccan food served with a lot of dishes. For food that is truly unique to Morocco, try pastilla , a savoury meat pie with filo pastry. Camel meat is also a common ingredient. There is not a huge street food scene in Morocco, but you can find plenty of stalls and street food in the Fez medina. Read more about Fez: Morocco's culinary capital .

Drinking in Morocco

Mint tea is Morocco’s national drink, and you will find it alongside a wide range of teas and herbal infusions. In terms of coffee, nus nus (half coffee, half milk) is a popular beverage throughout the country. Delicious freshly squeezed juices are common at cafés and street stalls.

Although tap water is generally safe to drink, except in the far south and Western Sahara, most tourists stick to bottled mineral water. As an Islamic country, drinking alcohol isn’t a big part of Moroccan culture, but it is nonetheless available in bars and big hotels.

Read more on food and drink in Morocco including where to eat, costs, specialities, and etiquette.

Glaoui Kasbah at Telouet in the moroccan Atlas © Nicolas VINCENT/Shutterstock

Glaoui Kasbah at Telouet in the moroccan Atlas © Nicolas VINCENT/Shutterstock

Morocco is generally very welcoming and tolerant of tourists, but it is important to be respectful and ensure you do not inadvertently affront people’s religious beliefs. Skimpy clothes, public displays of affection, and eating or smoking in the street during Ramadan are all almost guaranteed to cause offence. Choosing your clothes carefully is especially important in rural areas where people may be particularly offended if body parts considered “private” are not adequately covered. Noting how Moroccans dress locally and doing the same is usually the best policy.

Sexual harassment in Morocco

Morocco has developed somewhat of a reputation for sexual harassment of women travellers, but this does not mean the country unsafe. There is no doubt that harassment here is more persistent than in Western countries and this is usually down to Moroccan men’s misunderstanding of Western culture and attitudes towards sex. Whilst this harassment can be persistent and unpleasant, it is very rarely threatening, and the ways of minimising it are often the same as those would use at home.

For more information on women’s travel in Morocco, see the dedicated culture and etiquette page in our travel guide.

Travel advice for Morocco

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Morocco

  • Culture and Etiquette in Morocco
  • Eating and drinking in Morocco
  • How to get around in Morocco
  • Shopping tips for Morocco
  • Travel Tips Morocco for planning and on the go
  • Travelling with children in Morocco
  • Best time to visit Morocco
  • How to get a Morocco Visa

These are just some of the tips and advice for travelling to Morocco. You can find the full, comprehensive list of Morocco travel advice here .

Is it safe to travel to Morocco?

Morocco does not have a high crime rate and is perfectly safe to visit. However, thefts do happen, so it is unwise to carry large sums of cash or valuables on your person. This is especially true in crowded places such as bus and train stations where pickpockets like to operate. Credit card fraud is also something to be wary of. Never let your card out of your sight when paying for anything.

Avoiding scams in Morocco

Your best chance of avoiding scams and conmen in Morocco is to use official guides only, identifiable by their large, brass “sheriff’s badge”. Unofficial guides who approach you in the street may well be genuine, but there is little way of knowing.

On any tour, official or otherwise, make it clear you do not want to be taken shopping or to a hotel, as it will almost certainly be somewhere which pays the guide commission, added to your bill of course. If you are taken into a shop, usually a place which sells carpets, do not feel pressured into buying anything, no matter what hard-sell tactics or abuse they throw at you. Find more information on common scams in Morocco and how to avoid them on our travel essentials page .

Health advice for Morocco

For minor health complaints, pharmacies dispense a wide range of drugs and are usually sufficient. For anything more serious requiring hospital treatment, you should contact your consulate immediately and follow its advice. State hospitals in the large cities are adequate for anything up to minor surgery. For anything more serious, a private clinic or even repatriation may be the best option.

Inoculations for travelling to Morocco

No inoculations are currently required for visiting Morocco, but it is important to be up to date with polio and tetanus. For extended stays in Morocco, it is advisable to consider vaccinations against typhoid, TB, hepatitis A and B, diphtheria and rabies. A low level of malaria does exist in Morocco, however, strains are not life-threatening, and pills aren’t considered necessary unless you actually fall ill.

The best way to avoid this is to use mosquito repellent on all exposed areas of the skin. Wild dogs in Morocco can be aggressive and potentially rabid. The best advice is to avoid getting close to them and, if bitten, seek medical advice immediately.

Costs in Morocco

Food, accommodation, and travel costs in Morocco are all relatively low by European and North American standards. You can find more in-depth information about money and costs in Morocco on the travel essentials page.

Accommodation costs

Accommodation can be as inexpensive as €15/£13.50/$17.50 a night for a double room in a basic hotel. The top luxury hotels and riads can cost up to €500/£450/$590 per night.

It’s the same story with eating, ranging from €6/£5.50/$7 for a meal in a basic restaurant, to as much as €75/£67/$88 in the very top establishments. Alcohol is the only thing comparable to Western prices.

Transport costs

With regards to transport, renting a car will inevitably be expensive, but trains, buses and shared taxis are all very economical.

Fez tanneries, Morocco © Shutterstock

Tanneries of Fez, Morocco © RAndrei/Shutterstock

Full passport holders from the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU country don’t need a visa to enter Morocco and can remain in the country for up to ninety days. It is always worth checking the visa requirements before your departure as these can change. Upon arrival, you will need to fill in a form with personal details, profession and purpose of visit.

South African citizens require a visa to enter Morocco and should make applications to the Moroccan embassy or consulate in their country of residence.

Visa extensions

Applications to extend your stay in Morocco should be made to the Bureau des Étrangers for a residency permit. This can be extremely complicated and time-consuming as it involves opening a bank account with a minimum of 20,000dh in your account and obtaining an Attestation de Résidence . Most people avoid the bureaucracy by leaving the country for a few days, usually to Spain, and then re-entering through a different post.

Read our travel guide for more information on Morocco visas and entry requirements .

Part of Morocco’s appeal to tourists is its markets , known colloquially as souks. You will find souks in every town in Morocco, but the largest and most impressive are in Fez and Marrakesh . Whilst it can be very tempting to load up on souvenirs when walking through the souks, it is important to consider how you are going to get them home, and be wary of phoney merchandise and fake “antiques”.

Some of the souvenirs you may wish to purchase include beautiful Moroccan craftwork, semi-precious stones and fossils, or some tasty authentic foodstuffs, all of which you will be expected to bargain for.

Learn more about shopping in Morocco including what to buy, locations and times of souks, avoiding scams, and how to bargain.

Morocco offers magnificent trekking opportunities, impressive golf facilities, a couple of ski resorts (plus some adventurous off-piste skiing) and excellent fishing.

Trekking is among the very best things Morocco has to offer. The High Atlas is one of the most rewarding mountain ranges in the world, and one of the least spoilt. A number of long-distance Atlas routes can be followed – even a “Grand Traverse” of the full range, but most people stick to shorter treks in the Jebel Toubkal area.

Other promising areas include the Jebel Sirwa, the Western High Atlas, and, in winter the Jebel Saghro and Tafraoute region of the Anti-Atlas. The Middle Atlas has much attractive walking too, in such places as Tazzeka (Taza), and around Azrou.

Morocco doesn’t immediately spring to mind as a skiing destination, but the High Atlas mountains are reliably snow-covered from late January to early April, with good skiing at Oukaïmeden

Off-piste skiing is popular in the High Atlas, particularly in the Toubkal massif, where the Toubkal Refuge is often full of groups. Most off-piste activity is ski mountaineering, but skinny skis ( langlauf ) are good in the Middle Atlas if there is snow, in which case the Azilal–Bou Goumez–Ighil Mgoun area is possible.

Snowboarding is also gaining in popularity at Moroccan resorts. For further information on skiing and mountaineering, contact the Fédération Royale Marocaine du Ski et du Montagnisme.

Horse riding

The established base for horse riding holidays is Résidence de la Roseraie at Ouirgane, which runs trekking tours into the High Atlas. Another stable offering horse riding is Amodou Cheval near Agadir. A number of operators offer horse and camel treks, including Best of Morocco.

Morocco has an immense Atlantic (and small Mediterranean) coastline, with opportunities to arrange boat trips at Safi, Essaouira, Moulay Bousselham (near Asilah), Boujdour, Dakhla and elsewhere.

Inland, the Middle Atlas shelters beautiful lakes and rivers, many of them well stocked with trout. Good bases include Azrou (near the Aghmas lakes), Ifrane (near Zerrrouka), Khenifra (the Oum er Rbia River) and Ouirgane (the Nfis River). Pike are also to be found in some Middle Atlas lakes (such as Aguelmame Azizgza, near Khenifra), and a few of the huge artificial barrages, like Bin el Ouidaine (near Beni Mellal), are said to contain enormous bass.

Watersports and swimming

Agadir offers opportunities for sailing, yachting, windsurfing and diving, while Taghazout, just to its north, has become something of a surfing village, with board rental and board repair shops and some great surfing sites. There are lesser surfing centres at Sidi Ifni, Mirhleft, Kenitra, Bouznika Plage, El Jadida, Safi, and even Rabat.

With your own transport, you could scout out remote places all the way down the coast. When they’re working, all breaks can be busy in peak season (Oct–Feb), when deep lows come barrelling east across the mid-Atlantic.

For windsurfing, the prime destination is Essaouira , which draws devotees year-round.

The Atlantic can be very exposed, with crashing waves, and surfers, windsurfers and swimmers alike should beware of strong undertows. Inland, most towns of any size have a municipal swimming pool, but women especially should note that they tend to be the preserve of teenage boys.

In the south, you’ll be dependent on campsite pools or on those at the luxury hotels (which often allow outsiders to swim, either for a fee or if you buy drinks or a meal).

The High and Middle Atlas have also become a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. One holiday firm specializing in these sports is Water by Nature .

The British opened a golf course in Tangier as far back as 1917. Today the country has an international-level course at Rabat, eighteen-hole courses at Mohammedia, Marrakesh, Tangier, Cabo Negro, Saïdia, Larache, El Jadida, Essaouira, Agadir, Fez and Ben Slimane (Royal Golf, Av des FAR, BP 83, Ben Slimane), and nine-hole courses at Meknes, Ouarzazate and Bouznika (near Mohammedia, Route Secondaire de Bouznika Plage). Several tour operators offer Moroccan golfing holidays.

The Berbers were Morocco’s original inhabitants. The Arabs arrived at the end of the seventh century, after sweeping across North Africa and the Middle East in the name of their revolutionary ideology, Islam . Eventually, nearly all the Berbers converted to the new religion and were immediately accepted as fellow Muslims by the Arabs. When Muslim armies invaded the Iberian peninsula from Morocco, the bulk of the troops were Berbers, and the two ethnic groups pretty much assimilated.

Today, most Moroccans can claim both Arab and Berber ancestors, though a few (especially Shereefs, who trace their ancestry back to the Prophet Mohammed, and have the title “Moulay”) claim to be “pure” Arabs. In the Rif and Atlas mountains, and in the Souss Valley, though, groups of pure Berbers remain, and retain their ancient languages (Tarfit, spoken by about 1.5m people in the Rif; Tamazight, spoken by over 3m people in the Atlas; and Tashelhaït, spoken by around 4m people in the Souss Valley region).

Recently, there has been a resurgence in Berber pride (often symbolized by the Berber letterЖ); TV programmes are now broadcast in Berber languages, and they are even taught in schools, but the country’s majority language remains Arabic.

Top image: Square in the blue city of Chefchaouen, Morocco © Olena Tur/Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Morocco and related travel guides

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Rough Guides Editors

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 16.06.2021

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Morocco (Africa)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

  • How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

  • Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

  • food and water safety
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  • avoiding insect bites
  • preventing and treating animal bites
  • respiratory hygiene
  • hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

  • Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

  • Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
  • Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Tetanus.
  • Other vaccines to consider: Rabies; Typhoid.
  • Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B.

No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

  • Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
  • Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.
  • Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, dengue fever, schistosomiasis.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

  • The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

  • Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
  • Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
  • You can check this in the FAQ's.
  • If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

  • 44 additional items in the news archive for this country

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Morocco Travel Guide: How to prepare and plan your Trip

Planning to travel to Morocco and looking for some trusted travel tips? Well then, read on for an adventure filled plan and our top tips! Morocco is only a four hour plane ride away from Europe – and yet it’s like you’ve just been dropped into a completely different world. Morocco is an ideal travel destination for a road trip , with adventures, oriental flair and a pleasantly warm climate.

We have compiled everything we know from our experience and all our best travel tips for Morocco in this one post so that you can best prepare for your road trip. When is the best time to travel? How safe is a trip to Morocco? How do I get from A to B? You’ll find the answers to these questions and more, in this special travel guide for Morocco. 

1. Pre-travel Tips: Important Facts about Travelling to Morocco

2. arrival tips: getting into morocco, 3. accommodation guide for morocco: where to stay, 4. eating and drinking in morocco, 5. religion and culture: dress and behaviour tips in morocco, 6. security: how safe is morocco to travel, 7. transport guide: road trip through morocco by car, 8. city transport in morocco: taxi tips, 9. travel costs: how expensive is it to travel morocco, 10. photography tips & restriction in morocco, 11. internet & apps for travelling morocco.

Marokko Tipps

What to expect in Morocco

What images come up when you think of Morocco? Probably one that shows the Arabian-night lifestyle in flawless perfection, right? Yes, you can definitely look forward to that when you travel to Morocco. But: Morocco is SO much more than that.

The following three things make this country special and speak for a trip to Morocco:

  • Oriental flair: it starts with the colorful markets, continues through the typical cuisine to the hamams and the wonderful hotels (riads): in Morocco you can soak up the oriental way of life from dawn to dusk.
  • Landscape : From the Atlas Mountains to gigantic canyons, from the desert to the mountain passes – Morocco’s landscape will take your breath away. We had high expectations before, but we have to admit: it was even better!
  • Geographical proximity to Europe : you are in a completely different world within just a few hours from Mainland Europe. No nerve-wracking jet lag, no long-haul flight. A perfect travel destination for anyone who doesn’t want to travel too far.

Do you want to know which sights you shouldn’t miss and where all the highlights are around the country? Then we recommend our detailed blog article, where we show you which places we have traveled to and what you can expect there.

You can read that here: Our Itinerary: All Destinations in Morocco

Best time and season for Travelling to Morocco

You can travel to Morocco all year round , but of course there are months that are better and those that are less suitable. It also depends on which regions of Morocco you want to travel to.

The ideal travel times for a round trip through Morocco are spring (if possible avoid the holiday season, i.e. Easter) and autumn. While it can still be cool in Europe in spring, you can usually expect bright sunshine in Morocco. And you can also spend wonderful late summer days in Morocco in autumn.

We would not recommend midsummer (July and August), especially if you want to see the desert. In addition, sand storms in the desert start brewing between April and October. Sightseeing at 35 degrees in the shade can also become unbearable. You have to expect restrictions during Ramadan , as some restaurants are closed during the day.

Around Christmas and New Year many flee into the warming sun and it gets very crowded in Morocco and accordingly more expensive. If you want to avoid this, you should also avoid this time.

We traveled to Morocco in late February / early March . During the day it was pleasantly warm, sometimes even quite hot in the sun. It cooled off in the evening. Our accommodations were all equipped with heating. Our tip: in the colder months, be sure to find rooms with heating, otherwise the nights will be rather uncomfortably cold.

Travel Guide to Morocco: Our Tip

Although you can find many tips for Morocco on the Internet, such as on our blog, we still recommend that you get a printed travel guide. Here we can highly recommend the Rough Guide Travel Guide. Rough Guide travel guides are well-known by the fact that they are fairly detailed and very well researched.

The new edition of the Morocco Travel Guide by Rough Guide was published in 2019 and is therefore quite up to date. Our conclusion: perfect for anyone travelling to Morocco!

You can buy the guide here: The Rough Guide Morocco

Fes Marokko

Good news: Austrians and Germans do not need a visa to enter the country. On the plane you will receive an entry card that you must fill out. The border police will take the card and may ask you a few questions. That was it basically.

You can expect the same procedure awaiting you as you leave. Anyone who works in journalism or in another area that could be a thorn in the side of the police should prepare for a somewhat longer question-and-answer game. That was the case with us, but all in all things are relatively relaxed, so don’t worry!

Traditionally, you spend the night in Morocco in so-called riads. Riads are traditional, multi-storey buildings that have a wonderful courtyard and often have a grand roof terrace . From the outside, it is often hard to believe which oasis is hidden behind the gates of a riad.

We swear: Nowhere else in the world have we seen such a high density of grand and stylish accommodation as in Morocco. In larger cities you are literally overwhelmed by the offerings. If possible, we definitely recommend that you stay in a riad. For about 70 to 100 Euros per night you can get a very nice room with breakfast for two people.

Here you will find all our recommendations: Hotel tips for Morocco

Karawan Riad Fes

In Morocco, people love the combination of sweet and salty , and dried dates, apricots and raisins are used in many dishes. Honestly, we’re massive fans!

Typical of Morocco is the so-called tagine, a dish that is prepared in a clay pot (also called Tagine ) and is often served with couscous. This stew usually consists of meat and vegetables, but there are also meatless options.

Although we liked Moroccan food, to be honest the culinary offerings got a bit boring over time. Especially for vegetarians , you’ll find the same dishes being served, as the selection is unfortunately rather limited, unless you eat out at hip trendy restaurants. Meat is often eaten in Morocco, unfortunately vegetarian dishes are less common on the menu than in some other countries.

An exception is breakfast , which is almost always very bread and carbohydrate-heavy. Breakfast is included in most accommodations. You will almost always be served different dishes, including Moroccan pancakes, bread, jams and homemade yogurt.

Marokko Frühstück Tipps

As is well known, Islam is the state religion in Morocco. Knowing that in advance will help you adapt to the culture shock faster. Unfortunately, this means, among other things, that the patriarchal structures are very visible. You’ll find mostly men on the streets.

We therefore, especially recommend women not to wear skimpy clothing . Loose blouses, long trousers and long dresses and skirts are more practical. Honestly, as a tourist, you already stand out immediately so it’s more pleasant to be dressed as covered and casually as possible.

There is no obligation to wear a headscarf , but admittedly: even in direct sunlight we like to use a cloth. Exchanging tenderness or PDA in public is a no-go in Morocco.

Good to know: Non-Muslims can only visit two mosques in Morocco – the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca and the tomb mosque of Moulay Ismail in Meknes. But don’t worry: there are beautiful palaces and Koran schools in Morocco that you can visit.

Marokko Erfahrungen

One of the questions we were asked most often: how safe is it to travel around Morocco? First of all, we would advise you to read the most up to date section on the website of your home country’s respective Foreign Ministry Office. In terms of security, this should always be your first point of contact.

However, we will of course also be happy to share our own personal experiences and that is where the good news comes. Nothing bad ever happened to us in Morocco. We had no negative experiences. We were not robbed or harassed. Yes, we probably paid too much for a few things, but that’s about it.

Our specific tips for security:

  • Travel as a couple if possible. Of course there are also many who travel through Morocco alone – including women. To be honest, we personally found it very nice to travel as a couple. 
  • Avoid the medina at night. The medina (the old town) of some cities consists of very narrow streets. Especially at night, these dark alleys can feel a little shady. Try to avoid walks at night. We recommend this to women traveling alone.
  • Do not flaunt your valuables. We typically are the kind of people who are often too lazy to safely stow our (rather expensive) camera gear and instead let it hang loosely around our shoulders instead. Apparently, you shouldn’t make a habit out of this – especially in crowds.
  • Don’t be fooled by self-proclaimed guides. At every corner in Marrakech someone will offer to show you the way to “La Place” (the large square). In truth, he wants to take you to his shop to sell you something, or he really shows you the place and then of course charges a good amount. Our tip: If you really get lost, it’s better to ask a woman the right way.
  • Cities vs. Rural region: We personally found the men in larger cities (above all in Marrakech) to be much more intrusive and uncomfortable than in rural regions. While, for example, tips are constantly demanded in cities (e.g. for photos), people in the countryside are much more chill about it. We’ll give you more tips for taking photos later in this blog article.

Fes Erfahrungen

Morocco is a really ideal place to travel with a rental car . There are several reasons for this:

  • First of all, the main streets are largely in good condition . Even with a small car you can easily reach most places.
  • Traffic is very limited outside of the larger cities. It may be that you don’t see any other cars anywhere.
  • There is right-hand traffic in Morocco, so you don’t have to get used to it (unless you’re from NZ, Australia, UK or other Commonwealth Countries)
  • Most places are signposted in two languages ​​(English, Arabic).
  • The prices for a rental car are comparatively cheap: For our Peugeot 301 we paid around 250 Euros (excluding navigation system) for a week.

Renting a car in Morocco – what should I watch out for?

Provider and deductible.

We booked our rental car through Sunny Cars . We’ve only ever had good experiences with them, because when you book through Sunny Cars you get full insurance including reimbursement of the excess in the event of damage. Sunny Cars acts as an intermediary here: You book your car on the Sunny Cars website and collect it from a local car rental company (e.g. Hertz, Europcar, etc.).

What does a deductible mean? In some countries, this is also called the ‘excess’ or ‘deposit’. e.g. If you drive a dent into the car, you will receive a refund on any additional costs incurred with that accident from Sunny Cars. However, if you book the rental car “with a deductible/excess/deposit” (this is the case with many other platforms), you have to pay a certain amount (usually a few hundred Euros) in the event of damage, which you won’t get back.

You can search for cheap rental cars (fully comprehensive) here: Sunny Cars

Is it safe to drive through Morocco with a rental car?

Honestly, we had our hesitations at first, but it was absolutely no problem ! The streets are mostly in very good condition. There is little traffic. We have never met any dubious people. We only avoided driving at night, but mostly because it is easy to miss a pothole.

Other tips for renting & driving in Morocco

We are happy to rent the car ourselves at the airport, because there is usually less traffic than in the stations in the city and you can get used to the traffic conditions in peace. We picked up our car from Marrakech on the day of departure for two reasons: Firstly, you don’t need a car in Marrakech so we were able to save costs. Secondly, as soon as you drive towards the medina, the traffic is horrendous. We didn’t want to do that to ourselves.

We bought a navigation device , but would not recommend it. It was quite expensive (approx. 12 Euros per day) and we didn’t find much benefit from having it. In addition, we couldn’t find a lot of the places in the navigation system and had to trust our own orientation or the travel guide map.We’d recommend you to better download an offline app for your smartphone. It makes a lot more sense.

An international driver’s license is usually not necessary when renting and we were never asked for it. Nevertheless, we recommend that you get one for insurance reasons alone. You can easily get your international driver’s license for around 15 Euros at the ÖAMTC (Austria) or ADAC (Germany).

In larger cities, you should avoid the car, which saves you time and stress. It is best to park the rental car as close as possible to the accommodation (e.g. in a guarded parking lot or at best at the hotel car park) and switch to taxis for the duration of the stay or cover the distances by foot.

Police controls in Morocco

What many stories are circulating on the Internet are the police controls in Morocco: Yes, it is true. They are everywhere and you are likely to be controlled if you travel to Morocco in your own car.

Our personal experience: We never had a negative experience with the Moroccan police. Even when we were stopped after crossing a stop line during an overtaking manoeuvre, the policeman was very understanding (“French campervans are always slow, I understand that.”)

However, corruption is definitely an issue: we managed to negotiate the amount of our penalty down by half. Otherwise, the control was quite heavily regulated.

Polizeikontrollen Marokko

Even in the larger cities ( Marrakech , Fez , Casablanca etc.) you can do most of the walking . For longer distances, it is common to take a taxi. A basic distinction is made in Morocco between Petit Taxi and Grand Taxi.

  • The Petit Taxi (small taxi) is – as the name suggests – a very small car that can pass through narrow streets.
  • A Grand Taxi tends to be used for longer distances, i.e. between two cities or for destinations that are slightly outside the city.

The fare is generally determined by a taximeter, but of course they will try to convince you that it is not currently working. Therefore, you should either ask another driver or negotiate the fare in advance if they try to pull the ‘taximeter trick’ on you.

Prices vary from city to city – depending on how much people are used to tourism. In Marrakech, for example, you can expect a short distance ride to cost 50 Dirhams or more. However, you should really pay a maximum of 30 Dirhams. In Casablanca, we often only paid 20 Dirhams for a longer distance. Also, you can expect a surcharge at night.

Taxifahren Marrakesch

Currency & Paying in Morocco

Morocco’s currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). 1 Euro corresponds to about 10.70 Dirham (as of early 2021). With the prices written in Morocco, you simply mentally omit a zero at the end to get the approximate amount of Euros.

You can easily withdraw money from ATMs . If you are from Austria, make sure that the GeoControl function is deactivated at your bank before you leave. You can usually do that online.

Travel expenses in Morocco: price level and price examples

What does it cost in Morocco …?

  • Double room in a beautiful riad in Marrakech: 70 to 100 Euros per night
  • Car rental for a week: 200 to 250 Euros
  • Taxi ride in Marrakech or Fez: 20 to 30 Dirhams
  • Dinner for two in a nice restaurant: 200 Dirhams
  • Entry to the Majorelle Gardens in Marrakech: 80 Dirhams
  • Entry to the Bahia Palace in Marrakech: 50 Dirhams

We would describe the price levels in Morocco as somewhat lower than in Austria or Germany. But don’t expect to have a super cheap trip in Morocco.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not only seen as desirable in Morocco for many services, but is actually expected . In restaurants, 5 to 10 percent is appropriate. We would also leave the service staff from our accommodation around 10 to 20 Dirham per day in the room.

If you ask for directions or if you take a picture of someone, he or she may also ask for money. We would also then give about 10 to 20 Dirhams.

Morocco is a paradise for photography enthusiasts . And yet there are a few things to consider: Especially if you want to take pictures of people (and Moroccans are really photogenic), you should always ask for permission . In larger cities where people are used to tourists, you will almost always be asked to tip if you want to take pictures of someone.

An extreme example is the Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of people who earn their daily bread as a photo model. Unfortunately, you are often asked for money here, in a not overly kind approach.

On our trip, we preferred another way to get great portraits: We would simply buy something from someone and then asked the person for a photo.

It should be borne in mind that in Islam, the depiction of people is prohibited or not welcome. You should keep this restriction in mind when taking pictures, especially if you are in highly religious areas. If in doubt, we would advise against taking a photo and retreat rather than attract attention.

Under no circumstances should you photograph military facilities and uniformed officers (police, security guards, etc.) (thanks to Ricky for the tip).

Fotografieren Marokko

Mobile Internet: SIM card in Morocco

Nowadays, most of us are used to being online while traveling. Therefore, we would highly recommend that you buy a local SIM card for your smartphone when you get there. It is a great way to navigate from A to B and can also be used to search for tips on restaurants or sights.

You can buy the SIM card directly at the airport. It is important that your smartphone is unlocked for all networks (i.e. not limited to one provider). The SIM card is usually setup and activated directly by the staff – without any problems. The price will depend on the data volume, but generally speaking SIM cards are quite cheap.

Network coverage in Morocco is good, although there are places where you don’t have a network. Especially in sparse, barren regions between the cities you often have to do without reception. However, the reception is very good in the cities themselves.

Also WiFi is quite widespread in Morocco: the vast majority of hotels offer WiFi. However, the speed leaves somethings to be said.

Helpful apps for your trip to Morocco

  • Google Translate (download the French version so you can use it offline): Especially in rural areas, you’ll find many speak little to no English, but instead speak French.
  • maps.me or CityMaps2Go (download the Morocco map so that you can also use it offline): perfect for marking individual sights and restaurants.
  • Maps app (iPhone) or Google Maps: Great for navigating from A to B.
  • Happy Cow: great for finding vegetarian restaurants nearby.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, then we will receive a small commission. This will not change the prices for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Do you have any other travel tips for Morocco? Let us know in the comments. We look forward to reading about your experience!

You might also be interested in this

Marrakesh Travel Guide

Marrakech Travel Guide: Travel Tips and our Honest Review

Fez Attractions

Fez Travel Guide: Best Sights and Tips for the Oldest Medina in Morocco

Hoteltipp Casablanca

Casablanca Travel Guide: How to Spend the Perfect Day

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21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Morocco Travel Tips

  • Africa / Fez / In the City / Marrakech / Morocco
  • 33 Comments

Visiting Morocco? This is what you need to know before visiting.

More and more people are visiting Morocco every year. It’s a beautiful country, and as photographers and videographers, we had a field day.

On the flip side, there were also downsides to visiting especially as a woman. If you plan on going, we put together a few pointers to help you set realistic expectations and prepare for your trip.

21 Essential Tips for Traveling to Morocco

Thank you Contiki for hosting our trip. See our full 15 day trip itinerary here . All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 16, 2023

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21 things you must know before visiting morocco, best places to stay in morocco, planning checklist, more resources, 1. dress appropriately.

Overall, guys can dress however they like, but women need to dress more conservatively. Although you see many tourists wearing whatever they want, we chose to cover up as much as possible to avoid unwanted attention.

Even if you’re traveling with a group of guys, you may still get harassed. Some of the girls in our group got groped on multiple occasions even though we were paired off with a male buddy.

It was mostly really old men, and it happened more often in crowded places. When visiting mosques, you need to cover down to your wrists and ankles.

For the ladies out there, keep a  shawl / scarf  handy (this one is reversible and great for traveling light)

See More: What to Pack for Morocco – 2 Weeks in a Carry On

travel guidance for morocco

2. Currency and Cost

More established shops will take credit cards, but most smaller markets, street vendors, and cabs will not. Be ready with the local currency.

The Moroccan Dirham (DEE-rahm) goes for roughly 10.4 Dirhams (DH) per 1 USD or 11.09 per 1 euro. We thought things would be cheaper in Morocco, but the prices were comparable to Europe because of how touristy the country has become.

Our guide recommended that each person exchange 100 euros daily, which was plenty for us.

currency moroccan dirhams

3. ATMS Can be Hit or Miss

Exchange enough money when you get your chance. Ask the front desk at your hotel; they may have money to exchange.

The ATM quickly ran out when our entire group was trying to exchange money. Who knew ATMs can run out of money!

A few people from our group thought the ATM was giving an error and tried multiple times, but the ATM didn’t dispense any while still charging it from the bank for every attempt.

Also, traveler’s checks are pretty much useless in Morocco. It’s hard to find a place to cash them.

4. Keep Correct Change with You

Moroccan cab drivers rarely “have change” when you need it. At least, that’s what they tell you. To avoid overpaying, keep your coins.

Most of our cab rides within the city cost roughly 30 Dirhams. The dilemma with keeping change though is that you will not be able to exchange it back when leaving the country since they only want larger bills.

You want to keep correct change while you’re in the country, but you also want to spend it all before leaving.

5. Learn to Haggle

If you’re shopping in the markets or medinas, you will have to learn to haggle. I know some people have strong opinions about paying full price for the sake of “charity”, but selling is like their national sport and haggling is an integral part of their culture.

More likely than not, they will still get the better deal, but keep in mind if you are willing to spend the time, you can get items for at least 25-50% of the starting price.

Know what you’re willing to pay before you start the haggling process and walk out if you can’t get the price you want. They may call you back multiple times.

Also, you may want to bargain with your cab drivers before getting in. Most of our rides within the city cost 30 DH. If they demanded more, our guide told us to hand them the money and walk away.

Luckily, that didn’t happen to us because we always firmly set a price before the ride.

If you’re looking to buy a carpet or anything with a higher price tag, do your research before visiting Morocco. People get tricked into buying them as “an investment” to sell later. Don’t fall for their sales tactics and the local guide’s added pressure to buy.

Morocco Travel Safety and Tips You Need to Know Before Your Visit

Have some change ready for tips. A good general rule of thumb is 1 DH at a local place and 3-5 DH at nicer places.

7. Be Wary of Local Guides

You should absolutely hire a local guide to help you get an inside perspective on the country and navigate through the maze of the medinas (old towns). However, be sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.

The local guides have built relationships with many different stores, and they are most likely getting a cut of the sales. Don’t be fooled when they say they are trying to help you haggle to get the best price, because they usually aren’t. We were able to get better prices without them. This happened in Fes.

See More: 21 Amazing Things to Do in Fes Morocco

8. Stay Away from Strangers Offering Free TOurs or Directions

Even if you don’t hire a local guide, you might find other locals offering you tours while you’re walking around the markets and medinas.

If you go with one of them you may end up completely lost and pressed to spend money. Most of the time they will ask for a tip afterward too.

This is the same with asking for directions. A lot of them will offer to walk you to where you’re going but then ask for a tip. If you’re so inclined, always keep money to pay them off, plan ahead and ask your hotel, or pull up some maps when you have WIFI.

Also, if you are  renting a car in Morocco  so that you can get around on your own, be sure to plan ahead rather than wait until you are there.

9. Fridays are Holy Days and Prepare for Holidays

Keep in mind that it is a Muslim country, so pay attention to their holidays otherwise you might be there when everything is closed.

Also, most shops and attractions will close on Friday since it’s their holy day.

A friend of mine went during Ramadan and told me it was very difficult to eat meals. We happened to arrive in Morocco on Eid al-Adha, where they were slaughtering and sacrificing animals on the street.

All shops we saw closed that day and most shops were closed the following day.

Plus it was a bloody mess, most of which we avoided. Below you can see what is usually a crowded marketplace is deserted.

Morocco Travel Tips: 21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Morocco.

10. Be Careful what Water You Use

To stay safe, drink bottled water and even use it to brush your teeth. Also, avoid using any ice when you’re out. The LARQ Self-Cleaning Water Bottle is really useful when you’re in Morocco if you don’t want to buy a ton of bottled water. See all the top travel water bottles we tested on the road.

11. Pack Some Imodium

I don’t care how strong you think your stomach is, you should pack some  Imodium   just in case. This is always a good rule of thumb for all travel.

At least a third of our group wasn’t feeling well after the first meal in Morocco. I popped a couple of Imodium, and I was fine the next day. Others were not so fortunate.

See More: 21 Moroccan Foods You Must Try

Brochettes + 21 Moroccan Foods You Must Try When Visiting Morocco

12. Watch Your Pockets

Most Moroccans are friendly and honest, but you should always be careful with pickpockets in any major city, especially in crowded places like the markets. Pickpockets often target touristy areas.

13. What Language Do they Speak?

Moroccans speak a mixture of Arabic, Berber, English, and French. You’ll be fine with English in most of the larger cities, but you’ll probably need a translator in the rural parts of the country.

Here are a few basic Arabic words that came in handy:

  • Hello  (Peace Be With You): Salam Alikome (salaam a eleikum)
  • Thank You:  Choukran (shokran)
  • No Thank You:  La Choukran (la shokran). This one is useful when you have a bunch of street vendors hassling you to buy something.
  • Watch Out:  Balak. Although you won’t use this yourself, you’ll most likely hear this in the medinas or souks (outdoor markets). Locals will say balak if coming by with a mule, motorcycle, or cart to warn you to either get the side or get run over.

14. Visiting Mosques

If you’re hoping to see a Mosque while visiting Morocco, you might be out of luck unless you’re Muslim. Most mosques are off-limits to non-Muslims, with the exception of the massive Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. They are still beautiful to take photos from outside though!

If you’re looking for beautiful architecture,  Bahia Palace   is open to visitors.

See More: 21 Fascinating Things to Do in Marrakech Morocco

Morocco Travel Tips: 21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Morocco.

15. Alcohol, Drugs, and Parties?

Although most Moroccans are Muslims, yes, they still have all these. Hashish, an extract of the cannabis plant, is quite commonly offered to you in the streets. 

Contiki loves their parties, and we were told that only hotel bars had alcohol available for tourists, but we surprisingly found several bars and even nightclubs serving alcohol.

We decided we didn’t want to pay 300 DH (30 euros) to get into a club that already appeared like a sausage fest from the outside.

They also told us it’s pretty typical for prostitutes to hang out at nightclubs there too. There was a special DJ guest that night, but normally the club was supposed to cost around 150-200 DH.

16. Do I need a Visa or Vaccines?

Almost all English-speaking countries (except South Africa and Australia) do not require visas to enter the country. The CDC also doesn’t require any vaccines although many would recommend Hepatitis A and Typhoid shots. Find out more details from  CDC here  for the most updated information on vaccinations before visiting Morocco.

17. Have the RIght Converters

Don’t get stuck in Morocco without a way to charge all your electronics. We recommend picking up  one of these  so that you have options for wherever you travel and additional outlets in case there aren’t many in the hotel room.

Morocco uses the following: Voltage: 220 V, Frequency: 50 Hz, Power sockets: type C / E. If you have something that works in Europe, then it will be the same. If you’re traveling from the states,  the adapter  will help you get everything charged.

18. Ask Before Taking Photos (And You may have to Pay)

When you’re walking through the markets, be careful when taking photos of people and shops. Unless you are purchasing something, they may get angry at you and even demand money for the photos.

When we took photos of the snake charmers, we paid 20 DH. Some may even hassle you for more, so again, it’s good to first establish a price before taking a photo.

travel guidance for morocco

19. Bring TOilet Paper with you Everywhere

Don’t expect bathrooms to have toilet paper. Be prepared with your own and also have some hand sanitizer available. A lot of public restrooms have a small fee as well so if you see an attendant be sure to ask the price before using the bathroom.

Though they’re not flushable, I like to bring my  wet wipes  on all my trips to wipe my hands when I don’t have easy access to bathrooms.

20. Souvenirs to Bring Home

Fez is known for leather and carpets, while Marrakech is known for fragrances, oils, and spices (like saffron). If you’re buying saffron, make sure you’re buying the real thing. Many places sell artificial saffron for dirt cheap or mix the real with the fake stuff. No one wants saffron cut with other spices.

You can ask them to do a demonstration in water. If it colors the water yellow, it’s real, if it turns reddish, it’s the dye coming out from the artificial saffron.

You can also smell the difference (should smell more herbal), or ask for a couple of strands to put in your mouth and spit it onto a tissue to see what color it produces.

21. It’s a cat Lover’s Heaven… and Hell

There are homeless cats everywhere in Morocco. They are super cute and made us smile every time we saw them but also really sad every time we had to walk away and leave them.

It seemed that the people of Morocco took care of them in their own way. We saw them feeding them scraps of food in the markets. If you’re highly allergic to cats, don’t forget to bring some allergy meds with you.

Travelling in Morocco Tips

Final Thoughts as a Woman Visiting Morocco

There were many times on our trip that I genuinely wished I was a man visiting Morocco. While others simply got annoyed (full disclosure), I was much more sensitive since I still have residual resentment from some sexual traumas when I was younger that I am working out.

It’s a work in progress, making the trip incredibly challenging personally. For the most part, we had the best-case scenario of traveling with a local guide and Contiki. Those incidences happened within the few hours of free time that we wandered off alone.

Overall, Morocco is beautiful, and we’re happy to have experienced the country.

Instead of scaring you from visiting, we hope it educates you and helps you go in with the right mindset and expectations. As long as you’re entirely aware of your surroundings and know what to expect, you can have a wonderful experience.

  • Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
  • Find a great deal on Morocco hotels .
  • Arrange a rental car for your trip.
  • Book a tour for your visit.
  • Get airport lounge access .
  • Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
  • Get a new backpack for your trip.
  • Buy a Morocco travel guide .
  • Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
  • Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
  • Lonely Planet Morocco  – they always have great photos and information.
  • Moon Morocco  – also very photo heavy.
  • Morocco National Geographic Adventure Map
  • Pocket Arabic Dictionary

Is Morocco one of the top places you want to visit? Why or why not? Can you think of any other tips for visiting Morocco?

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Essential Travel Morocco Tips

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Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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  • Africa and Middle East

Morocco TRAVEL GUIDE

Morocco

Fodor's Essential Morocco Whether you want to shop in the souks of Marrakesh, visit a Berber village, or trek the...

For centuries, Morocco has inspired travelers with its colorful energy, fascinating history, and dazzling combination of Arab, European, and African influences. From vibrant and bustling medinas to the breathtaking Sahara, and craggy mountain ranges, the country packs a remarkable punch around every bend.

From Mediterranean beaches to the highest peak in North Africa, Morocco is an incredible diverse country. In the north, sleepy beach towns come alive in summer, while inland, wild boars and Barbary macaques roam the forests of the lush Rif Mountains. Farther south, the rocky Atlas Mountains rise out of the desert, with tiny Berber villages tucked away in valleys.

Surfers catch waves along the windswept beaches of the Atlantic coast and hikers trek the scenic mountains that split the country. Crumbling kasbahs and squared minarets offer a glimpse of Morocco’s storied history across the southern desert regions and areas east of the High Atlas Mountains.

If a city adventure is more your style, Morocco offers a mix of new and old. Slip into one of the hip cafés or design riads to experience Morocco’s modern, cosmopolitan side. Walk outside the door to experience the ancient medina areas of the very same city or spend time in the “new city,” which nearly every Moroccan urban area has. Visit the countless historical sites to get a sense of traditional Morocco, while also experiencing contemporary culture.

Across the country artisans form the backbone of the culture. Handmade products are a source of immense pride. Dozens of tribes in Morocco create their own styles of wool rugs made today as they have been for generations—thread by thread on basic wooden looms. Metalworkers hammer and cut intricately designed lamps while tileworkers hand-chip colored zellige tiles to build tabletops, fountains, or decorative walls. Leather is tanned in vats that have existed for generations—it’s done today the same way it was decades ago.

Don’t forget to tuck into the culinary delights that set Morocco apart. The cuisine isn’t spicy but relies on layers of flavor to create dishes that combine sweet and savory tastes. Multi-course meals are a regular occurrence and use seasonal, fresh produce as much as possible. Sweet mint tea is served throughout the day and ideal to savor while sitting on a rooftop admiring the scenery.

As one of the most stable countries in the region, Morocco is a great choice for travelers who want to experience a different way of life without extended travel time and inconvenient connections.

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Oued Cherrat is a small beach area with superb ocean views and excellent surf conditions. Once a wild and relatively unfrequented stretch of sand, it’s...

The town of Tahannout is the capital of the Al Haouz province not too far outside Marrakesh. While most of the buildings on the main...

Tamegroute (literally "the last town before the border," an accurate toponym when the Algerian border was closer than it is now) is the home of...

  • Aglou Plage

Aglou Plage is a world away from nearby Tiznit, both in climate and ambience, although connected by 17 km (10 miles) of good tarmac. It's...

  • Cascades d'Ouzoud

No trip to the Atlas would be complete without a stop at these impressive falls, which are approachable from the S508 via the 1811. You...

Demnate is a modest market center to which villagers from the neighboring hills and plains bring multifarious produce, especially for the Sunday souk held outside...

Azilal is a small garrison town, rather uninteresting to tourists but useful as a jumping-off point for routes into the southern highlands, especially toward the...

  • Mehdiya Plage

If you are traveling by car along the coast north of Rabat (toward Moulay Bousselham) and are in the mood for a beach stroll, Mehdiya...

Kabila is quite literally a tourist village: a sprawling complex complete with hotel, villas, a helpful staff, a shopping center, and a marina with restaurants...

  • Sidi-Bouknadel

Sidi-Bouknadel (also known as Bouknadel) isn't accessible from the autoroute, but its attractions lie to the north, halfway between Kenitra and Rabat, and are accessible...

The hamlet of Tinfou is famous for the unique (and very small) sand dunes that circling winds have deposited 2 km (1 mile) north of...

Tinzouline holds an important weekly souk. If you're here on a Monday, take this opportunity to shop and make contact with the many peoples of...

Restinga-Smir

Until recently, Restinga-Smir was a small fishing village, but development has come quickly: it's now one of the region's priciest summering spots, Morocco's version of...

The joy of a visit to Imilchil is in the journey, but it's also famous for the marriage festival that takes place here every September...

  • Skhirat Beach
  • Plage des Nations

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travel guidance for morocco

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Morocco travel blog — the fullest morocco travel guide for a budget trip for first-timers.

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco is an Islamic country located in the northwestern part of Africa, both the gateway to the Mediterranean Sea and the gateway to the Sahara desert, so this country possesses different types of terrains and diversity in climate, along with countless of extremely beautiful, impressive, spectacular landscapes. As part of the Arab world, Morocco also has many cultural traditions and a treasure of very unique Islamic art and architecture. That is why Morocco is always a favorite destination of many tourists around the world, and especially always on the “must-visit” list of any traveler. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Morocco for the first-time? Let’s check out our Morocco travel blog (Morocco blog, Morocco trip blog) with the fullest Morocco travel guide (Morocco guide, Morocco tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Morocco travel blog: Overview of Morocco

travel guidance for morocco

Geographically, Morocco is formed up of four different regions: The Sahara desert with its towns and Berber oasis (Siwa Oasis); the Atlas and Rif mountains; the plains were home to the royal cities of Strasbourgesh and Fez (Fes); and finally the sandy shores of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by small seaside towns and the cities of Rabat and Casablanca.

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco (Arabic name Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah, meaning “The Western Kingdom”) is a country located on the northwest coast of Africa, bordered by Algeria to the east and Western Saharah to the south. The whole country of Morocco is divided into 16 regions, with the capital of Rabat and the largest and most famous city of Casablanca.

Safety and security

Theft can happen in big cities and along beaches, where you should avoid deserted areas and stay alert at all times, especially after dark. Remember do not bring large amounts of money or valuables with you.

travel guidance for morocco

In big cities, in addition to petty theft, pickpockets and extorting money, I find the safety and security in Morocco not so bad. In crowded places, there are many policemen in uniform and plain clothes. In the old towns (Medina) always have crowded markets, it is necessary to pay attention to your belongings. You should leave the passport in the suitcase at the hotel, bring only a photocopy.

The southwestern border region which bordering Algeria and the southern territories of Western Sahara, especially near the border with Mauritania because of kidnapping and is advised by the authorities that visitors should not to come there due to the complicated security situation in these areas.

travel guidance for morocco

The US government has a website to notify the security situation (terrorism, natural disasters) of all countries in the world here .

The French government also has a similar site, access here .

travel guidance for morocco

The national religion of Morocco is Islam. Coming here, it is advisable to wear discreetly, limit open underarms and short skirts on streets to show respect for locals. If it’s too hot, you can bring a thin, long, large scarf to wear instead of a shirt with sleeves.

In Morocco, in large places of worship, men and women are not allowed to pray in the same area but must be separated, male on one side, female on the other. There are different entrances as well.

travel guidance for morocco

The Moroccans speak two main languages, Arabic and French, and in the mountainous areas, there also is a Berber language. All the signs, in addition to Arabic, they are also available in French, so you don’t have to worry about falling illiterate.

A few common words (transliteration):

  • Where is the toilet: Fin kaynin toilettes?
  • Hello: Salam
  • Goodbye: Bslama
  • Thank: Shokran
  • Thank you (in Berber): Ten miêrt
  • Agree, ok : Wakha
  • Let’s go: Y-allah

travel guidance for morocco

The flag of Morocco flag is red, with a green five-pointed star, which is the symbol of the Kingdom of Morocco. Originally, the Moroccan flag was plain red, embodying the Alaouite dynasty, which ruled Morocco since 1631. In 1915, a green five-pointed star was added to distinguish it from the flags of other countries that also had red. Green is the color of hope and also the color of Islam. The star represents the 5 pillars of Islam:

  • Fasting (Ramadan)
  • Pilgrimage (to Mecca, Islam’s holy site)

Morocco blog: When to visit?

Due to its diversisty in geography, the best time to travel to Morocco depends largely on where you will going to, but overall, Morocco is a great year-round destination. With its long coastline, majestic mountains, and desert landscapes, it’s an incredibly diversity country in landscape that offers unique experiences to explore at any time of year. January is the wettest and coldest month and July and August are the hottest months, so you’ll see less touristy. Spring (March & April) and autumn (September & October) have the most pleasant weather.

travel guidance for morocco

In the Sahara region, cities in the plains, you should be avoided come in mid-summer. Desert climate is hot, dry and clear in the summer, but nighttime temperatures can plummet. However, the hottest months are ideal for visiting coastal cities like Essaouira and Rabat. The winter months in the mountains are very cold, which can be difficult to come as many hotels do not have heating system.

travel guidance for morocco

From October to May next year is the best time to visit Morocco. The autumn and spring’s weather is cool. Winters are not as cold as Southern Europe. The desert night is quite cold, so you still need to bring warm clothes. The Moroccan spring often comes a little earlier than in Europe. From mid to late February, plum and apricot blossoms bloom white on oases in the middle of desert. In late April, early May, roses bloom brilliantly in the valley of roses (Vallée dés Roses).

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During Christmas and New Year, the whole Europe is on holiday, the streets will be a bit crowded and the price of services will be slightly higher. Because Morocco is Europe’s neighbor, the French and Germans like to go to their neighbor to relax, especially special holidays.

Morocco travel blog: Getting to Morocco

The simplest and most convenient way is flying to big cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Fes, Rabat… There are many low-cost airlines operating daily flights from European cities to Morocco and the flight time is also very reasonable (It takes average 3 – 4 hours of flying) such as Ryanair, Volotea, Easyjet… If you hunting hard, you can find cheap airfares for just a few dozen of Euros / round-trip. I often use Skyscanner , Google Flights to find tickets and then go directly to websites of airlines to buy.

travel guidance for morocco

Alternatively, you can also drive to Morocco from Europe via a transit ferry from the Spanish city of Tarifa to Tangier. Some ferry companies such as FRS, Inter Shipping regularly operate ferries that connecting these two cities with travel time of about 1 hour. See ferry routes and timetables here .

Morocco blog: Getting around Morocco and between cities

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco’s national railway company is ONCF. The railway network in Morocco is concentrated mainly in the north and cities along the west coast, connecting the major cities. Therefore, if you want to getting to cities in the South (such as Agadir), the bus is the most reasonable choice.

Train tickets can be purchased online through the company’s website at:( https://www.oncf.ma/fr/ ), via app ( iOS , Android ) or directly at ticket counters at train stations.

If you want a guarantee and rest assured, you can buy tickets 1 to 2 days in advance.

Like me, when I was in Marrakech, I checked the train schedules and prices in advance on the web, then went to the station 1 hour before departure and bought tickets directly at the ticket counter. This helped me more flexible and not be constrained by time.

A few things you should keep in mind are:

  • The ticket counter will stop selling 3 minutes before departure time.
  • In big cities like Marrakech or Casablanca have relatively high frequency of trips, on the contrary, smaller cities like Meknes have quite a few trips. So, if you stay in small cities, you should carefully check the departure time of train to arrange a reasonable travel time.
  • On the train, you must always keep your belongings within sight, to avoid being “lost your luggage” when train stops at stations.

The kingdom of Marocco 14

Example fares: Train from Casablanca – Marrakech : 95 MAD (10 USD); Bus supratours from Marrakech – Essaouira : 80 MAD (8.4 USD), Train from Fes – Meknes : 22 MAD (2.3 USD).

It is the most convenient means of transportation in Morocco. The bus network covers the whole country, so it is possible to reach places that train cannot. The major bus carriers are CTM ( http://www.ctm.ma/ ), Supratours ( http://www.supratours.ma/ ), SATAS and Trans Ghazala.

When traveling in Morocco, I chose the CTM bus company (because the company has frequently bus trips, and the service is also relatively good).

travel guidance for morocco

Riding by bus, I recommend you to book tickets 1 to 2 days in advance to be able to choose the most suitable trip in terms of both tickets and timetables. The reason is that if you buy tickets on the departure date, but unfortunately the bus trip you already choose is already full, you will be pushed to the next trip. In big cities, the waiting time between bus trips is not too long (about 1 hour), so take the next trip is still okay.

But, in contrast, in small cities (eg Chefchaouen) the frequency is reduced quite a lot and you have to wait for a long time to wait for the next bus, which can affect your expected schedule.

travel guidance for morocco

This is also a good option to getting around in Morocco, helping you to be more proactive in your time as well as being able to reach places that trains and buses cannot reach. However, self-driving in Morocco also requires you to be very steady and careful.

As far as I can see, the traffic here is a bit chaotic, especially in small cities (eg Chefchaouen): pedestrians cross the street anywhere; On the road, in addition to cars, there are also horse-drawn carriages, donkey carts, and horns are loud, in general, it feels quite similar to Vietnamese traffic.

Moreover, the terrain in the North of Morocco has many hills and passes, so self-driving is not for weak drivers.

Getting around in cities

travel guidance for morocco

Inside medina, motor vehicles are prohibited, you can only walk or donkey riding. The area of medina is not too large but complicated like a maze. So prepare a good pair of walking shoes.

In Moroccan cities, there are always people who are enthusiastic to show you the way to ask for money. If needed, let them guide directions for you and pay about 10-20 MAD (1-2 USD). If you feel uncomfortable, just say “No” clearly a few times. If they insist on following and walking ahead, pretending to give directions, I often take advantage of when they don’t notice and stop by a shop on the street. If they don’t see you anymore, they will leave away.

travel guidance for morocco

In order to limit being disturbed on the road, you should not hold a paper map in your hand with a blank face, a half-lidded gaze. Instead, you should download offline maps of MAPS.ME or Google Maps , plus compass apps to your phone for convenient navigating. In Marrakech and Fes, paper maps are also not very effective because in the souks, almost all streets have no numbers, streets without names.

travel guidance for morocco

Outside of medina, the most convenient way to travel are taxis. Taxi prices in Morocco are comparable to Vietnamese taxis. In Casablanca and occasionally in Marrakech, taxi is billed by meter. During rush hour, the drivers often refuse to turn on the meter, you should ask in advance to be sure and bargain the price before getting on the car.

There are two types of taxis operating in cities in Morocco: “grand taxi” – large taxi and “petit taxi” – small taxi.

Small taxi: 4-seater car, only allowed to run in the inner cities. According to regulations, this type of taxi can only carry a maximum of 3 passengers.

“Our group went with 4 people, even though we saw that the car still has an available seat and asked the driver to take all 4 of us, the driver disagreed and asked to divide into 2 groups to accept it”.

travel guidance for morocco

Large taxi: Usually a 7-seater taxi, this type can go out of town or traveling between neighboring cities.

In cities, to getting from city center to airport, you can only take this large taxi.

With most taxis, the price list is listed on the window of the car, however, you can still bargain with the driver to get the most reasonable price.

travel guidance for morocco

Casablanca also has a tram system, the way to buy tickets and travel is the same as in Europe.

Morocco travel blog: Where to go?

Marrakech (marrakesh).

There are few places where red is so overwhelming as in Marrakesh, from houses, walls, even the streets are painted pink or red. This North African city has a multi-dimensional, mysterious and captivating life.

It is the country’s fourth largest city, after Casablanca, Fes and Tangier. Marrakesh, located in the southwest, was once the capital of Morocco, playing an important role in the trans-Saharan trade route. The history of formation and development of Marrakesh has gone through many periods. Since the 13th century, Marrakesh is no longer the capital, but is still one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, an important commercial center. Marrakesh is also one of Morocco’s artistic cities, a national and international tourist destination.

travel guidance for morocco

Attractions in Marrakesh: Jemaa el Fna Square, Medina old town, Souks. Medina Old Town is a top tourist attraction in Marrakesh and is surrounded by 9km of high walls. Jemaa el Fna Square is a bustling place with all kinds of representations of the daily life of Moroccans, Ali Ben Youssef Medersa is the largest Koran school in North Africa, Bahia Palace, Souk Flea Market in the Medina is also a must-see place during your visit.

travel guidance for morocco

Chefchaouen

Also known as the Blue City of Morocco, Chefchaouen is located in the Rif Mountains in the northwestern Morocco. It’s a small city, a bit remote, but well worth a visit in the vibrant shades of turquoise of the houses, charming alleyways, a photogenic and perfect spot to take virtual living photos.

The city is built on a hill, so be prepared for a hike, when you get to the top it can feel like you just went for a hike. Walking is the best way to experience the city as there are many narrow streets that cannot be accessed by cars.

Sahara Desert tour

travel guidance for morocco

There are many Sahara desert tours that offered by tour operators in Morocco, with options ranging from camping, day trips, or night add-ons combined with other city tours. Camping in the Sahara Desert is a dream for any visitor, it’s definitely the ultimate nomadic experience. This is where you can experience walking on the sand dunes to watch the sunrise, camel riding, camping…

Known as Morocco’s cultural capital, Fes is a place you’ll definitely want to visit once. Ranked as the second largest city in Morocco, Fez served as the country’s capital until 1925. The city is known as the “Athens of Africa” ​​for preserving its diverse historical heritage. One of the heritages with the most vivid image of the Moroccan people is in the Fez markets (souks). Visit the Fes el Bali area to discover the unique cultural features, which was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1981.

Fes is located just over 300 miles from Marrakech which you can reach by car or plane. This UNESCO World Heritage city is one of the best-preserved ancient Arab cities in the world and the largest car-free urban area on earth.

travel guidance for morocco

The seaside city of Essaouira

Located on the coast of Morocco, Essaouira is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent kitesurfing conditions and beautiful beaches. If you stay in Marrakech, there is a bus that connects these two cities. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. Another option is to hire a taxi from Marrakech airport and a one-way trip will cost around $90.

travel guidance for morocco

Tangier is a northern Moroccan city with a population of over 2 million, located on the North African coast, to the west of the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, which borders the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans at Cape Spartel. This city has cultural features, architecture that mixed of France and Spain.

Surrounded by beautiful beaches, Tangier attracts visitors by its vibrancy that few places have. Visitors can move here by taxi after about 10 minutes from city center. My first impression of Tangier is the lively, bustling street and beautiful beaches just ten minutes away from the center. By the beach are markets, modern residential areas, frequented by tourists from all over the world with a wide variety of goods on sale.

travel guidance for morocco

In 1923, Tanger was called an international city under a treaty between nine countries with interests in Morocco: France, Italy, Spain, Great Britain, USA, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium and Portugal.

Meknes is one of the four most popular tourist destinations in Morocco. Before choosing Marrakesh as the next capital, Meknes served as the capital of Morocco from 1672 – 1727 under the rule of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Today, the city still retains the images that recreate the heroic history with the architectural style of Spain and Morocco. Especially the great gates with high walls. The impressive historical landmarks: Mosques, old markets and squares… Especially the old town (medina) in this city is also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

travel guidance for morocco

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and the largest port in Africa. Casablanca is known to many people through the movie of the same name, but it is not the filming location of this movie. With the diversity in culture from Portuguese, French and Moors, make the city is more dynamic and full of vibrant.

travel guidance for morocco

The city of Ouarzazate is known as “The Door of the Desert” because of its location on the edge of Sahara Desert. This place is a “quiet” land of palm trees, sandy roads and buildings bearing the image of fortresses. In particular, Ouarzazate also owns two largest film studios in the world, Atlas Studios and CLA Studios. Moreover, there are many movies using the setting here, so this city is also known as the “Hollywood of Africa”. When coming to this city, the following attractive tourist attractions will surely attract you: First is Sahara desert, Todra gorge – a great natural wonder or visit Taourirt Kasbah, which is an important histrical fortified residence complex of Morocco.

The city is now the capital of Morocco and was established in the 12th century. Rabat impresses with its diverse landscape of flowers, plants and trees. In addition, monumental works must be mentioned gates such as the Great Gate of the Kasbah (Bab Oudaya) and The Gate of Ambassadors.

travel guidance for morocco

Some notable attractions in Rabat: Mamora forest, beautiful beaches, mosques, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, ancient city (medina), Royal square, Chellah medieval fortified, … Not only that, tourists can visit the National Craft Museum or stop at the street cafes while wandering in Rabat.

travel guidance for morocco

The town of Asilah or Arzeila is located in the northwest region on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. It is located in the northern Atlantic Bay and is 31km from the city of Tangier. The town has a pretty good depiction of Moroccan culture, including murals.

Morocco travel blog: Where to stay?

Room rates in Morocco are much cheaper than in Europe. The price for a double room, included breakfast, from 30 USD (guesthouse), 50 – 60 USD (2-star hotel or hostel), with more than 100 USD you can stay in a 4-star hotel.

travel guidance for morocco

To find top rated and best hotels in cities in Morocco you can go to Booking.com , Agoda.com . If you want a budget stay let choose Airbnb , and use this link https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185 , to register for an Airbnb account and book a room, you will get a discount up to $55 for the first booking.

The main attractions are located in medina (old town in city), you should rent a room here for convenience. But also should not be too far from the motorway in case you have bulky luggage, to avoid spend much effort. For example, in Marrakech, you should rent a room near Jemaa el-Fna square, in Casablanca, you should rent near United Nations Square or Casa-Port Railway Station (note that in Casablanca there are 2 big stations that are quite far apart), in Fes, you should rent in Talaa Sghira street or Talaa Kebira street (the beginning of this street near Bab Boujloud).

In the old town, there are usually few big hotels. Instead, there are Dar or Riad which are traditional Moroccan homestays. Riad is usually built in square-shaped, with a skylight and a small garden in the middle, creating a quiet and pleasant atmosphere. You should stay there once, I’m sure you will like it.

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco blog: How to buy and choose desert tour?

Coming to Morocco, riding a camel in the sunset or sunrise in the Sahara desert is an experience not to be missed. In the medina in Fes and Marrakech there are many tour operators offering tours to the desert, but in reality there is only one company that organizes it. Tour operators only distribute as travel agents, so there is no need to book online in advance, so just directly go to their offices to bargain and choose the cheapest one to buy.

Check out the tour schedule here: https://www.igomorocco.com/

There are different types of tours to desert: 2 days to Zagora (Ouarzazate); 3 days to Erg Chebbi (near Merzouga) or 4 days to both places. I found the 3-day tour to Erg Chebbi is the most suitable and reasonable. The 2-day tour to the Zagora does not see the beautiful shimmering sand dunes as shown on Instagram, while the 4-day tour is a combination of the two tours above, you will have to waiting for the car for a long time in Ouarzazate.

The distance from Merzouga to Marrakech and Fes is about the same. If your itinerary includes both of these cities, you can request tour operator pick up in Marrakech, drop off in Fes or vice versa.

If riding a camel, you should wear long pants, not lace or jean pants that are too tight or hard (my own painful experience). Overnight in the desert, you have to sleeping in a Berber tent which is very cold, need to bring extra warm clothes. In addition, you should bring more toilet paper – “paper attached to the intestines”, haha!

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco travel blog: What to eat?

Moroccan food is delicious and rich. Traditional restaurants often have tajin, couscous, pastilla or lamb or beef stews. In souks (traditional markets), there are many kinds of savory, delectable grilled meat, skewers. Morocco is a Muslim country, so people don’t eat pork.

Breakfast in riads has many types of breads, cornmeal pancakes, with jams, honey, butter, mint tea, and delicious freshly orange juice.

The Moroccan pastries are also delicious (but very sweet). Some pastry is as small as a thumb, goes well with mint tea.

During the two weeks of eating and drinking all over Morocco, I always remember of eating fresh fish and seafood in Essaouira. If you have the opportunity to visit, do not forget to try.

travel guidance for morocco

B’ssara (Moroccan fava bean soup)

travel guidance for morocco

B’ssara is a soup made with simple ingredients using beans, olive oil and local flavor cumin. This is a traditional Moroccan dish often used in daily meals. It can be used in breakfast to start a new day and served with bread. The price for this dish is quite cheap, a bowl costs only a few cents.

travel guidance for morocco

You can’t leave Morocco without trying tagine! This is a stewed soup that is considered a Moroccan’s culinary cultural symbol with its very own taste. Its ingredients include mea, poultry, or fish, vegetables, spices, nuts, all are stewed in a clay pot. It’s available everywhere that you can find easily in this country from high-end restaurants to eateries, roadside food stalls.

Goat Cheese

travel guidance for morocco

Goat cheese comes in a lot of Moroccan recipes and is amazing. If you are a lover of goat cheese then you will especially love this in Morocco.

Morocco is home to a wide variety of olives. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of olive oil, so it’s the perfect place to sample all kinds of olives.

Almonds are the basis ingredient of many of the delicious things here, especially the orange blossom flavored almond milk and Moroccan spiced almonds.

travel guidance for morocco

Kefta tagine

travel guidance for morocco

Kefta tagine is the name of a dish made from minced beef or lamb mixed with ingredients and spices such as coriander, garlic, and cinnamon. Then it will be rounded into balls and cooked in tomato and onion sauce under skillful hands of chefs. The final step to perfect the dish make it greasy, a few eggs will be added into the pot.

travel guidance for morocco

You must definitely enjoy delicious dishes made from lamb, the most famous of which is Méchoui. Previously it was a traditional dish used in wedding parties, later it was mentioned as one of the famous street foods in Morocco. To make this dish, people use a whole lamb, marinate with herbs and spices and then spit-roasted on charcoal.

travel guidance for morocco

Akouda is a cake made from mashed potatoes combined with aromatic spices. This dish is deep-fried until golden crispy and eaten hot. It can be dipped with tomato sauce, served with salad or sandwiched with bread are all very delicious, this dish is popular in northern Morocco and in old towns (medina).

travel guidance for morocco

This is a traditional dish associated with Moroccan culture and religion. On the Friday after the weekly prayer, if you travel to Morocco, you will find this dish on all Moroccan family tables. Couscous is stewed from vegetables such as zucchini, pumpkin, eggplant, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, green beans, chicken and beef. Especially served with Leben – a traditional fermented milk.

Chermoula fish

travel guidance for morocco

Bordered by Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean with a long coastline, Moroccan cuisine is rich with a lot of dishes made from a multitude of different types of fish. Chermoula is one of them with an irresistible delicious taste. The dish with a combination of herbs, spices and fish is grilled over charcoal with the highlight of a special sauce.

Deep-fried Moroccan doughnuts

travel guidance for morocco

Import from French, a pastry lover’s dream. They are similar to fried donuts and you will find them all over the country.

Moroccan sweets, pastries

travel guidance for morocco

You’ll find shops full of sweets, and it’s easy to sample a variety. You can grab some bread and baklava or almond briouats and almost anything dipped in orange blossom water.

travel guidance for morocco

Moroccan smoothie made with avocado fresh fruits such as bananas, apples, kiwi, eggs, milk, and candies or nuts, is a must-try sweet treat of Moroccan cuisine.

Morocco travel blog: What to buy?

Morocco is one of the countries with many specialties. Tourists come here often buy:

  • Rug: If you know that Iran has a famous Persian rugs, Morocco is also known as a rug paradise. The most prominent is the unique Berber wool rugs. One useful tip to not buy the wrong type of fake rug is to ask the seller to burn the tassels to try. If it’s real wool, it won’t catch fire, while fakes will catch fire and burn.
  • Pottery (the most beautiful in Fes): You can come across all styles and ceramic products that Moroccans still use every day such as vases, cooking utensils, dishes, mosaics, ashtrays… The ceramics in Fes and Safi are best, the two main ceramics production sites of this country, they have a unique Moroccan style.
  • Leather goods (in Fes, Essaouira or Marrakech). Head to Marrakesh and Fez to shop for these items, bags and leather products. Here sells a variety of products with vary prices, types and quality for you to choose from. In other cities of Morocco you can also buy these products but it is a bit smelly.
  • Spices: Moroccan spices are very popular with tourists to buy as gifts after their trip. Locals sell spices in souks in every city. The most special is Ras el Hanout, which is a spice named after “head of the shop”. The reason it is called that is because the owner of the shop will mix this spices for you. Usually it consists of cumin seeds, cinnamon powder, ginger powder, clove pepper powder and some other spices.
  • Herbal, dried rose, dried fruit (Marrakech or Essaouira have the most).
  • Argan Oil (in Essaouira): The rarest gift that can only be found in Morocco is argan oil. Because the only place on earth where argan trees grow is near Essaouira. However, it is because of its scarcity that many people fake it to sell at a high price. When buying this oil, you should note that you should refer to a reputable place to buy and from locals to avoid being scammed.
  • Decorative lamps and jewelry (in Marrakech)
  • Fresh fruit, pomegranate, orange, and cactus are delicious.

Goods in Fes are a bit more expensive than in Marrakech, but much better. The souk near Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fna square sells a lot of Chinese goods, making it difficult to distinguish the real from the fake items. Shopping in souks in Morocco, you always remember to bargain, starting from 1/3 to 1/2 off the asking price. It’s also a pleasure of going to a market, isn’t it?

Sometimes, you can meet people nearby invite you buy weed, you should be careful because Morocco has many policemen in plain clothes hidden in the crowd.

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco blog: Traveling cost

  • Hotel: $50 – 60 / 1 night (double room in 2-star riad for 2 people)
  • Food: $10 – 20 / 1 meal at delicious restaurants, with a nice view

I budgeted $80 – 90 / 1 person / 1 day (excluding airfare) and found it very Okay. If your budget is slightly lower, the total cost will be in the range of $60 – 70 / 1 day for all: meals, transportation, sightseeing (excluding airfare).

Picture below is the courtyard of La Table du Palais. One of the nicest restaurants I’ve been to. 150 DHs for the main course, 220 DHs for the main course and 1 side dish, 250 DHs for the whole appetizer, main course and dessert. If you just want to sit and rest for a while, don’t want to eat, you can order a glass of orange juice or mint tea, very affordable.

travel guidance for morocco

Morocco blog: Suggested Morocco travel itinerary

Over 2 weeks of traveling in this beautiful North African country has helped me gain some experience to be able to arrange a reasonable exploration itinerary.

Here are 2 itineraries that I think are quite reasonable for those who want to once set foot in Morocco:

  • Itinerary 1: Marrakech (day 1 & 2) – Ouarzazate (day 3) – Merzouga (day 4) – Fès (day 5) – Chefchaouen (day 6) – Fès (day 7).
  • Itinerary 2 (long time): Marrakech (day 1) – Essaouira (day 2) – Marrakech (day 3) – Ouarzazate (day 4) – Merzouga (day 5) – Fès (day 6 & 7) – Chefchaouen (day) 9) – Fès (10th) – Merknès (11th) – Rabat (12th) – Casablanca (13th) – Marrakech (14th).

In addition, if you have more time, you can also add to the itinerary of other tourist cities of Morocco such as Agadir, Tangier. Or, if you are an adventurer, you can also book High Atlas trekking tours departing from Marrakech, visit Berber villages (Imlil, Asni, Ourika, …) and admire the wonderful valleys beauty of this mountains.

These tours are very diverse in terms of places to visit as well as the number of days to go to which help you freely choose, and of course it is also sold a lot at agents in Marrakech.

We had another Morocco trip itinerary for 7 days here: Morocco 7 days itinerary — How to spend 7 days in Morocco perfectly to visit: Fez, Chefchaouen & Tangier .

Morocco travel blog: Some notes before you go

travel guidance for morocco

  • Money exchange: The exchange rate in the airport is often not as good as outside, you should only exchange a little at the airport and then go to the city center to continue exchange. In Marrakech, on Prince Moulay Rachid street near Jemaa el-Fna square there are many banks.
  • Major cities have ATMs, but don’t expect much because the machines are often broken.
  • Plugs: Most plugs in Morocco are type C and type E. Standard voltage is 220 V and standard frequency is 50 Hz. An adapter will be the best for most electronic devices. Internet: Although you’ll find that most cafes, restaurants, and hotels in the city have Wi-Fi handy (and cheap!) for 4G while you’re traveling in Morocco. You can buy a Maroc Telecom SIM card for just 40 dirhams (just over $4) and get 10GB of data for 100 dirhams ($10).
  • What to wear? Choose light, appropriate clothing. Be sure to always cover your shoulders and knees like using scarves and maxi skirts. They are ideal for warm sunny conditions and that shows respect for the culture – which in turn will get you treated with respect.
  • Do not take pictures without permission in Morocco. They will respond as soon as you press the button. Many people here, and especially the elderly, think that if they are photographed, their images will be used for bad purposes. They are quite negative because of the influence on religion and spirituality. Usually people in tourist cities and young people will be more open, but you should ask before taking photos.
  • Long pants should be worn when riding a camel, it is not denim or lace fabric and too tight will make you uncomfortable when sitting for more than 1 hour on a back of a camel. In addition, sleeping in a tent in the desert should wear enough warm clothes. Besides, it is necessary to prepare necessary personal belongings and drinking water, but it must be compact and hygienic.
  • Do not go alone at night when traveling to Morocco, you need a trusted person to accompany you. Even if you are a muscular man, you should not go at night, especially in the desert, in a remote place. Another reason is because Moroccan roads are not always convenient and well-lit, so you should keep this in mind when traveling.
  • Public toilets in Morocco are chargeable, except for hotels and restaurants. At some places, there is no collection, but there are still people standing to remind you not to forget to put tips in a box after use.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Morocco you can refer to

  • 2D1N Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech
  • Ourika Valley Day Tour from Marrakech
  • Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
  • Agadir Day Trip From Marrakech
  • Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech
  • Marrakech City Tour
  • Quad Biking Experience in Marrakech

travel guidance for morocco

Are you looking for more top things to do in Morocco: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And here .

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Morocco Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Map - Morocco

There are no notices currently in effect for Morocco.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (influenza)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Morocco.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Morocco. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Morocco.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Morocco. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Morocco, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

  • Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
  • Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
  • Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Morocco. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

  • Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

  • Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
  • Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
  • Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
  • Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

  • Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Leishmaniasis

  • Sand fly bite
  • Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

  • Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
  • Bite from an infected rodent
  • Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
  • Avoid rodents and areas where they live
  • Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

  • Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Morocco, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

  • Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
  • Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
  • Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
  • Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Morocco. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanone
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Morocco include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Morocco. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Morocco’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Morocco may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Morocco, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Morocco for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Surrey Live

Travel advice for Tunisia and Morocco for UK tourists 2024 including passport rules

W ith passport rules in place, UK travelers planning trips to Tunisia and Morocco in 2024 need to be aware of the latest requirements and advice to ensure smooth travels in these North African destinations.

Those travelling from Heathrow and Gatwick will need to remind themselves of the latest travel advice. Getting on holiday safely and smoothly means you can finally relax, kick off your shoes, and enjoy some sunshine. And Tunisia and Morocco certainly have plenty of it, making for the ideal vacation. They are also pretty easy to get to, with a number of airlines flying there.

For Morroco for examples, Ryanair operates flights from London Stansted to Fez, Marrakech and Tangier. EasyJet offers budget flights from London Gatwick and London Luton to Marrakech. Royal Air Maroc operates direct flights from London Heathrow to Casablanca several times per day.

As for Tunisia, Tunisair - This is the main Tunisian airline and it operates direct flights from London Heathrow to Tunis, as does British AIrways and EasyJet.

READ MORE: Greece and Turkey travel advice 2024 from Heathrow and Gatwick including passport rules

Travel advice for Tunisia

Tunisia is a North African country with Mediterranean coastlines and a fascinating mix of European and Middle Eastern influences. The capital Tunis boasts a beautiful old city medina with winding streets, lively markets selling local handicrafts, and historic sites like the impressive Bardo Museum. Beyond the cities, Tunisia has stunning desert scenery, indigenous Berber villages, and popular island and beach destinations along its coasts.

Entry Requirements

When you arrive, you might be asked to share your contact details and travel plans with the authorities. You'll also need proof of a hotel booking to get into the country. Some people have been turned away or delayed because they couldn't show enough evidence of where they were staying. This doesn't happen all the time, and usually if you explain where you're staying, it's fine.

Some British people who are from South Asia have had problems getting into Tunisia at airports. This can be upsetting and inconvenient. The British Embassy say they have talked to the Tunisian authorities about this.

Your passport needs to be valid for the whole time you're in Tunisia. You don't need it to be valid for any longer than that. If you're a dual British-Tunisian citizen, you should use your Tunisian passport when you enter and leave Tunisia.

If you're planning a long stay in Tunisia, for more than 90 days, you'll need to get a visa. You can find out how to apply by getting in touch with the Tunisian Embassy in London. If you overstay your welcome and remain in Tunisia longer than allowed, you could end up having to pay a fine.#

Other rules

  • The currency in Tunisia is dinars. It is strictly prohibited to take Tunisian dinars out of the country. To exchange any Tunisian dinars left over at the end of your stay into Sterling or other hard currency you will need to show the receipt from the bank where you first withdrew or bought the dinars.

Carry a form of photo ID at all times

Homosexuality is a criminal offence in Tunisia. See the government information and advice page for the LGBT+ community before you travel.

Areas to avoid

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to:

  • the Chaambi Mountains National Park and the designated military operations zones of Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma and Mount Mghila
  • the militarised zone south of the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba
  • within 20km of the rest of the Libya border area north of Dhehiba
  • the town of Ben Guerdane and immediate surrounding area

In addition and for security reasons, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

  • within 75km of the Libyan border, including Remada, El Borma and the town of Zarzis
  • the governorate of Kasserine, including the town of Sbeitla
  • within 10km of the border with Algeria south of Kasserine governorate
  • within 30km of the border in El Kef and Jendouba governorates south of the town of Jendouba, including the archaeological site of Chemtou
  • areas north and west of the town of Ghardimaou in Jendouba governorate, including El Feidja National Park
  • within 10km of Mount Mghila
  • Mount Orbata

Since 1 July, the city of Sfax has witnessed several days of civil unrest, including reports of injuries, arrests and one death, related to heightened tensions between local residents and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, the UK government said. The area is generally safe but there is a heightened risk level or terrorism.

A state of emergency is in effect in Tunisia, imposed after a suicide attack on a police bus in 2015. It has been extended a number of times, most recently in February 2022.

Travel advice for Morocco

Morocco is a magical kingdom in North Africa with a rich history and diverse landscapes. From the winding alleys and spice markets of Marrakech to the fishing ports and beaches of Essaouira, Morocco offers colorful culture and architecture.

Venture inland to the High Atlas Mountains, dotted with Berber villages, or go deeper into the desert where you'll find oasis towns, sand dunes, and majestic Kasbahs. The imperial cities of Fes and Meknes give a taste of Morocco's history as an important trading and cultural crossroads.

Entry requirements

The Moroccan embassy in the UK advises that your passport should be valid for at least three months from your date of entry to Morocco. If your passport doesn't meet this requirement, you might face problems and you should check with the Moroccan authorities and your travel provider before travelling. Ensure your passport isn't damaged. Some travellers have been turned away when travelling on damaged passports.

Moroccan citizens who live in the UK and travel to Morocco may not be allowed to return to the UK unless they show evidence of their UK immigration status. This can include their UK biometric residence permit card or a valid UK entry clearance.

British nationals don’t need a visa to enter Morocco for the purpose of tourism for up to 90 days. British nationals who stay longer than 90 days need to go to a local police station to request an extension.

The country is generally safe, however there is a high risk of terrorism. Places at higher risk of attack include:

  • crowded areas
  • government installations
  • transportation networks
  • businesses with Western interests
  • areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather

Petty crime is common, especially in tourist areas like the medina quarter (historical district) of towns/cities and on beaches. So it is important to remain vigilant. Crimes include:

pickpocketing

bag snatching

drive-by motorcycle theft of visible jewellery and handbags

  • Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.
  • Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco. See the government information and advice page for the LGBT+ community before you travel.

It’s illegal to possess pornographic material.

For more news across Surrey, visit our homepage here.

Morocco has epic mountains, sweeping deserts and ancient cities

Morocco’s Resilience: Intrepid Travel Helps Tourism Rebound After Earthquake

Dawit Habtemariam

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

March 1st, 2024 at 10:21 AM EST

Intrepid Travel used its resources to bring tourism back to the High Atlas communities devastated by the September 8 earthquake.

Dawit Habtemariam

Intrepid Travel has been driving tourism back to Moroccan villages impacted by the September earthquake.

It’s been over six months since a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Marrakech and communities in the Atlas Mountains region. The natural disaster left over 2,900 dead, 5,500 injured and many homes, roads and buildings destroyed.

Since the earthquake, Intrepid has been doing its part to help these communities fully recover. After the earthquake struck, Intrepid Travel’s philanthropic arm, the Intrepid Foundation, quickly raised $550,000, plus $100,000 from its own funds. 

“It was the biggest appeal we’ve ever had in 35 years of history,” said Zina Bencheikh, managing director of the Middle East, Europe, and Africa for Intrepid Travel.

Intrepid worked with two partners to provide emergency services to get the communities back on their feet. Education for All built boarding house schools for girls who lost theirs to the earthquake. Its other partner, the High Atlas Foundation, brought shelter, food, and aid to the survivors. 

“When the earthquake hit Morocco, really for our business, we were hit in the middle of our core, where we operate,” said Bencheikh. “In fact, rural areas are really the core of our operations in Morocco. Specifically, all our tours go to rural areas.”

Intrepid Travel’s Deep Roots in Morocco

Intrepid, which recently hosted Skift in Morocco at it its annual company retreat, takes travelers off the beaten path with a community-based approach to tourism. To ensure this, the global organization partners with small, independent businesses to make sure income reaches the grassroots level of a destination, said Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton at the Skift Global Forum in September.

Over 90% of Intrepid’s guides directly come from Morocco’s rural areas. 

In Morocco, Intrepid takes travelers out of touristy areas. It partners with families, locals, and small businesses to give travelers authentic Moroccan experiences, said Mohamed El Bahri, an Intrepid tour guide.

travel guidance for morocco

On some tours, tourists watch and partake in breadmaking, stay in guest houses, hike the Agafay desert and Atlas Mountains, and have dinner with locals. 

“To know Moroccans, you have to go to their heart. What is their heart? It’s their house,” said El Bahri.

Tourism: a Vital Sector for Morocco

During the week of the September 8 earthquake, flight bookings for Morocco dropped 35%, according to ForwardKeys. Bookings remained 22% down for the three weeks after the earthquake. 

Tourism has become a major industry of Morocco’s economy, having taken up a bigger share of employment, said Siham Fettouhi, Morocco Tourism Office Director for USA and Canada, in October.

Tourism was 16% of Morocco’s total exports in 2022, according to UN Tourism . As a share of just service exports, it made up 45%.

Sending a Recovery Message

To help its communities, Intrepid leveraged its brand name, size and resources to convey that Morocco is still open to tourism.

One of the dangers of a natural disaster for a destination is that tourists can mistakenly assume the whole destination has been hit – that they should not visit out of respect for the impacted communities or because certain attractions are closed.

Intrepid did a PR campaign on behalf of Morocco.

Intrepid restarted tours to some of the impacted areas once their roads were open again. On December 1, Intrepid returned to the village of Imlil, which had been disconnected due to damaged roads. 

“It was quite fast because we really needed to send a strong message and make sure that our communities don’t get a double impact from this devastating earthquake,” said Bencheikh.

The fact that Marrakech’s major international events continued as scheduled also sent a strong message. In October, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund held their annual meeting in Marrakech. Over 14,000 attendees attended the meeting.

In the first 11 months of 2023, Morocco welcomed 13.2 million tourists, beating its 2019 level of 12.9 million, reported Morocco World News .

Atlas Communities Continue to Rebuild

While tourism continues to flow back to many of the impacted villages, many survivors are still healing. Not wanting to leave their communities, some are staying in tents waiting for their new homes to be built. 

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

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Tags: intrepid travel , morocco , tourism

Photo credit: A view of the Atlas Mountains from the village of View from the village of Imlil in Morocco in February 2024. Photo by Sean O'Neill. Source: Skift. Sean O'Neill

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UAE residents: Explore Morocco with new eVisa! Guide on how to apply

Living in uae.

Online application has just a few steps, with the visa issued within one to three days

morocco

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Dubai: If you are a traveller at heart, there is good news! UAE residents can now experience the magic of Morocco with the newly launched eVisa, which allows you to skip the embassy visit and explore a land brimming with diverse experiences, from bustling markets to serene landscapes.

On March 4, the Consular Section of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Abu Dhabi officially announced the availability of eVisas to Morocco for residents of the UAE.

Individuals holding a valid Emirates ID card with a minimum of 180 days of residency will be eligible for the eVisa. The eVisa will be valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and allow for a single entry for a short stay of up to 30 days within the Moroccan territory.

Here’s how you can apply for it.

Documents required

• Copy of your UAE residence visa, with the visa valid for more than 180 days. • Passport copy, with your passport valid for more than 90 days. • Passport sized photograph.

How to apply for eVisa

• Visit: acces-maroc.ma • You will see a widget on the home page titled: ‘Do I need a visa to enter morocco?’, where you can select your nationality, country of residence, passport type, purpose of trip and any other additional visas you may have. For example, a US or UK visa, or a Schengen visa. • Type in your email address and confirm it. Then select the captcha code and click on ‘Enter’. • You will receive an email with a link that you are required to click on to continue with your application. • It will take you to an application form, where you would need to fill in the following details: 1. Date of birth 2. Type of passport 3. Purpose of trip (Select from tourism, business, conference, cultural or sporting events, event, family reunification, medical stay or other).

• Select if you have any additional visas from Australia, Canada, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Schengen, UK or US. • Click on ‘next’. • Under travel conditions, you will be required to check all the travel conditions that you need to meet. These are: - I am traveling for tourism purposes. - I have a return ticket. - I have hotel reservation or an invitation. - I have sufficient financial means – 70 EUR (Dh279.09) per day minimum. - I have a valid passport when leaving Morocco. - I certify the accuracy of the information provided, in case of error, my request will be refused.

• Enter your personal details: - Family Name - First name - Date of Birth - Place of Birth - Mobile number - Email address - Nationality/Country Citizenship - Occupation/Job - Passport type - Passport Number - Issued by - Date of Issue - Expiry Date

• Click on ‘next’. • Select the expected expected date to arrive and to leave Morocco. • Next, upload your passport sized photograph and passport copy and click on ‘Save’. • You will then be informed about your eVisa validity if you apply for it right now. The visa is valid for six months, for a single entry and a stay of 30 days maximum. • You will then be asked to review the details of your eVisa application before the request is validated. • At this stage, you can enter another ‘beneficiary’, which could be family members or friends travelling with you. If you do select this option, repeat the process listed above for the second beneficiary as well. • Once you confirm the application, you will then be asked to proceed to the payment portal.

• You will have two options to receive the eVisa: - Standard – 770 MAD (Moroccan Dirham) ( Dh281.67 ) Get your visa within an average of three business days , but it may take longer if additional verification is required. - Express – 1,100 MAD (Moroccan Dirham) ( Dh402.39 ) Get your visa within an average of one business day , but it may take longer if additional verification is required. • Once you make the payment, you will get an application number, which you can use to track your application. Also, if you face any issues with the application, you can contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates at: [email protected]

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Explore Morocco with new eVisa for UAE residents

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IMAGES

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  2. Travel around Morocco using our guidance

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  3. 16 Helpful Morocco Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

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COMMENTS

  1. Morocco Travel Advisory

    Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Morocco due to terrorism.. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco.Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

  2. Covid-19: Safe travel to Morocco

    Following the decision of the Moroccan authorities, the health restrictions ( PCR or Vaccinal Pass) at the entrance to Moroccan territory are lifted. Starting from April 5th, 2023, Morocco reopens its borders to visitors from China, following the lifting of access restrictions put in place last December to combat Covid-19.

  3. Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now? Latest travel advice

    Morocco is generally considered safe for female travellers, especially in holiday resorts. However, if you're travelling alone, you may receive unwanted attention from men. The Foreign Office ...

  4. 18 things to know before going to Morocco

    Getting around Morocco is easy, even without a car. An excellent train network links many cities, including Africa's first high-speed train, Al Boraq, between Casablanca and Tangier. A comfortable and reliable bus network connects towns big and small. Book train and bus tickets a day or two in advance to ensure the travel time you'd like. 3.

  5. Morocco travel advice

    If you need help. If you are in Morocco and you need consular assistance call our 24-hour helpline and select the option for 'consular services for British nationals': For domestic calls from ...

  6. Morocco Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Morocco Travel Costs. Accommodation - Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost between 80-110 MAD per night in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez, and about 50-60 MAD in smaller places. Private rooms in hostels cost around 260-380 MAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

  7. Morocco travel guide

    Market. Copy My Trip: A bus tour through the cities of Northern Morocco. Jan 17, 2024 • 6 min read. Lonely Planet's Director of Social Media, Deepa Lakshmin, visited Rabat, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fez and Marrakesh by bus. Here's how you can too.

  8. Morocco Travel Advice & Safety

    Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. Avoid black henna temporary tattoos. These often contain a dye that can irritate the skin. Full travel advice: Health.

  9. Morocco Travel Guide: Best Things To Do (10-day Itinerary)

    Costs of Traveling in Morocco. Travel on a budget in Morocco, from $170 − $590 USD weekly per person, mid-range $720 − $1430 USD, and high-end from $1480 − $2320 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  10. 23 Travel Tips for Morocco

    Our top travel tips for Morocco. 1. A lot of shops and restaurants in Morocco are closed on Fridays. Morocco is a Muslim country and as such, Fridays are sacred days. A bit like Sundays for Christians. In Morocco, Fridays are usually the days when families and friends gather, stay at home and share a hearty Couscous.

  11. The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide: All You Need to Know

    The summer months of July and August are usually the hottest and driest, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits. This can make sightseeing and outdoor activities difficult. Similarly, winter can be cold and wet in many parts of Morocco as well, making travel more difficult during this season.

  12. Travel to Morocco

    The largest oasis in the world is in Morocco Oases are part of the natural wealth of Morocco. With an area of 77,000 km2, the region of Tafilalet, in the south of the country, is home to the largest oasis in the world.This group of oases,...

  13. Morocco Travel Guide

    Morocco travel facts; Size and location: Located on the northwest coast of Africa, Morocco is slightly smaller than France and Spain, and slightly larger than the US state of California at 446,550 square kilometres (722,550 sq km including the Western Sahara). Population:37 million. Religion: Nearly 99 percent of Moroccans are Muslim, with 1 percent Christian and a tiny minority (an estimated ...

  14. Morocco

    Advice for All Destinations COVID-19. Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.. Vaccinations and malaria risk. Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

  15. Morocco Travel Guide: How to prepare and plan your Trip

    Here we can highly recommend the Rough Guide Travel Guide. Rough Guide travel guides are well-known by the fact that they are fairly detailed and very well researched. The new edition of the Morocco Travel Guide by Rough Guide was published in 2019 and is therefore quite up to date. Our conclusion: perfect for anyone travelling to Morocco! You ...

  16. 21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Morocco Travel Tips

    If you're looking to buy a carpet or anything with a higher price tag, do your research before visiting Morocco. People get tricked into buying them as "an investment" to sell later. Don't fall for their sales tactics and the local guide's added pressure to buy. 6. Tipping. Have some change ready for tips.

  17. Entry requirements

    Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK's National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers. Demonstrating your COVID-19 status Morocco accepts the UK's proof of ...

  18. Getting help

    Emergency services in Morocco. Ambulance: 150. Fire: 150. Police: 190. Local Gendarmerie: 177. If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 150 and ask for an ambulance. You ...

  19. Morocco Travel Guide

    Get information on Morocco Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's reviews, or post your own.

  20. Morocco travel blog

    Morocco travel blog: Overview of Morocco Morocco Map. Geographically, Morocco is formed up of four different regions: The Sahara desert with its towns and Berber oasis (Siwa Oasis); the Atlas and Rif mountains; the plains were home to the royal cities of Strasbourgesh and Fez (Fes); and finally the sandy shores of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by small seaside towns and ...

  21. Morocco

    Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Morocco. Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.

  22. Travelling to Morocco

    Morocco travel advice. Latest FCDO travel advice for Morocco including on entry requirements, safety and security and local laws and customs. Reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad. How to ...

  23. Travel advice for Tunisia and Morocco for UK tourists 2024 ...

    Travel advice for Morocco. Morocco is a magical kingdom in North Africa with a rich history and diverse landscapes. From the winding alleys and spice markets of Marrakech to the fishing ports and ...

  24. Morocco's Tourism Resilience: Intrepid Helps After Earthquake

    In the first 11 months of 2023, Morocco welcomed 13.2 million tourists, beating its 2019 level of 12.9 million, reported Morocco World News. Atlas Communities Continue to Rebuild

  25. UAE residents: Explore Morocco with new eVisa! Guide on how to apply

    • Click on 'next'. • Select the expected expected date to arrive and to leave Morocco. • Next, upload your passport sized photograph and passport copy and click on 'Save'.