Morocco Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Rabat.

Geography:

Morocco is located on the westernmost tip of north Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It sits just 13km (8mi) away from Gibraltar and shares land borders with Algeria and the disputed territory Western Sahara, which is in the south.

The interior of Morocco is mountainous. Like an elongated spine, the Atlas Mountains run from the southwest to the centre of Morocco, before extending eastward to Algeria and Tunisia, while the Rif Mountains run along the north coast. Often snow-covered in winter, Morocco's mountains are home to the country's significant indigenous Berber population, whose unique culture, crafts and costumes make for a fascinating visit.

The long stretch of the Atlantic coast down Morocco's western side features a few vibrant cities – among them Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Essaouira and Agadir. The coastal part is separated from the mountainous region by wide swathes of fertile plains.

The Sahara – Africa's largest desert – stretches its toes into southern Morocco. Far from being featureless, it is dotted with palm-fringed oases and traditional villages.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Morocco's national carrier is Royal Air Maroc, whose headquarters are in Casablanca. Other airlines that fly to Morocco include Air France, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, Tunisair and Turkish Airlines, among others.

There are 25 airports in Morocco and the busiest ones are:
• Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport
• Marrakech Menara Airport
• Agadir Al Massira Airport

Departure Tax

Included in ticket cost.

Flight Times

To Casablanca: from London - 3 hours 20 minutes; New York - 7 hours; Toronto - 9 hours (including stopover); Sydney - 24 hours (including stopovers).

To Marrakech: from London - 3 hours 40 minutes; New York - 10 hours (including stopover); Toronto - 13 hours (including stopover); Sydney - 29 hours (including stopovers).

Getting There By Road

It is possible to drive from Europe to Morocco via a car ferry.

Within Africa, you can drive to Morocco from Ceuta (a Spanish autonomous city) and Mauritania. The border crossing between Morocco and Algeria is shut.

Getting There By Water

Travelling by sea to Morocco is an alternative to flying. The main ports are Tangier, Casablanca and Agadir. Several lines from Europe serve these ports.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Royal Air Maroc (www.royalairmaroc.com) operates regular internal flights from Casablanca to several towns and cities, including popular tourist destinations like Agadir, Fes and Marrakech.

Bike

Bike hire is increasingly popular, especially in Marrakech.

Breakdown Services

There is no national breakdown service. Call your car hire company in case of emergency.

Car Hire

International and local car hire companies are available in major towns, cities and airports. Prices vary with the season. The minimum age for driving a hired car is 18, although many hire companies require drivers to be 21 or over.

Coach

Taking a coach is a fun and inexpensive way to travel around Morocco. CTM (www.ctm.ma) is perhaps the best coach company with a comprehensive network that links Moroccan cities.

Departure Tax

Included in ticket cost.

Documentation

Foreign drivers must have:
• A valid driving license from your country of residence
• An International Driving Permit (often required)
• Car hire documentation
• Insurance
• Your passport

Getting Around By Rail

Morocco has an excellent rail network managed by Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF). Book your tickets at www.oncf.ma.

Apart from taking the conventional train, you can also take a high-speed rail service (known as Al Boraq) which connects Tangier to Casablanca with stops at Kenitra and Rabat. Book your tickets at www.oncf.ma/Al-boraq.

Regulations

Traffic drives on the right side of the road. Speed limits are 60kph (37mph) in urban areas and 100-120kph (62-75mph) on expressways. Seat belts are mandatory and no alcohol should be present in your bloodstream.

Getting Around By Road

The Moroccan road network is extensive but not without problems. High accident rates and speed traps are two examples that make for a tense journey. Hence, driving is not recommended for those after a relaxing holiday.

Road Classification

Expressways have the prefix "A" while national roads are known as N roads.

Road Quality

Expressways that connect major cities are of excellent quality but winding mountain roads in the interior can be challenging for some, especially in winter.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

Taxis are available in every major city and easily identified by their colour – red is for Casablanca and Agadir, Blue is for Rabat, Tangier and for Asilah, and orange is for Marrakech. Ask for metered fare when you get in.

Shared taxi services (Grand Taxis) also operate between towns. Passengers should realise that the journey doesn't start until all seats are filled.

Urban Travel

In Marrakech and Tangier, hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses are a good option to explore the city.

In Casablanca, Rabat and Sale, the tramway is preferred by many locals and tourists.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

Follow and contact FCDO:   

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of Morocco's current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Morocco set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Moroccan Consulate General in the UK. 

Passport validity requirements

To enter Morocco, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the date you arrive.

Make sure your passport is not damaged. The Moroccan authorities have denied entry to some travellers with damaged passports. Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements  

You can visit Morocco without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.

To stay longer than 90 days, you must request an extension at a Moroccan police station.

If you're going to Morocco for reasons other than tourism, check visa requirements with the Moroccan Consulate General in the UK.

Make sure the border official stamps your passport. Some travellers have had difficulties leaving Morocco because their passport has no entry stamp.

Arriving by private boat

If you arrive by private boat, you must enter at a recognised port of entry. It is illegal to enter through other ports.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Morocco, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a polio vaccine if you're coming from a polio-affected country.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Morocco guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Morocco (in French). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into or out of Morocco

You can take up to 2,000 Moroccan dirham into or out of Morocco. The dirham is 'non-convertible' – it cannot be easily exchanged for other currencies .

You must declare foreign currency worth 100,000 Moroccan dirham or more (about 10,000 US dollars) when you enter or leave the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign cash you can carry.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Morocco

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:   

• transport hubs
• locations popular with tourists and foreigners
• government buildings
• crowded places
• businesses with western interests

There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells.

In some places, including hotels and tourists sites, there may be protective security measures, including security guards.

Regional escalation

Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region.

On 1 October, Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. On 26 October Israel carried out military action against Iran.

Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on X, Facebook and Instagram. You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Read FCDO advice if you're affected by a crisis abroad.

Political situation

Protests and demonstrations could occur across the country, particularly in large cities, often without warning. These events are typically monitored closely by law enforcement. While authorised protests are generally peaceful, unauthorised ones have sometimes led to clashes between protesters and police. Such gatherings can cause travel disruption in the affected areas. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations and follow local news and directions from security officials.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

There can be occasional violent crime in Morocco. Criminals have used knives against tourists in street attacks, thefts and burglaries in major cities and along beaches. To reduce your risk:

• avoid quiet areas, particularly after dark
• do not carry large amounts of money or valuables

Petty crime is common in tourist areas, especially in historical districts (medina quarters) and on beaches. Crimes include:

• pickpocketing
• bag-snatching
• drive-by motorcycle theft of visible jewellery and handbags

Be cautious when asking for directions and using ATMs – aggressive begging is common.

Scams

Credit card fraud and scams are common. Beware of scammers substituting inferior goods for the ones you bought. Remain alert to potential confidence tricks.

Bogus tourist guides

It is common for people posing as official tourist guides to harass tourists.

If you use a guide in a historical district (medina quarter), make sure they have an official badge and permission from the local authority.

Marriage fraud

Be cautious if you travel to Morocco for a relationship or to find someone you met on the internet. Incidents of marriage fraud and attempted extortion have affected British nationals. Make sure you keep your return ticket, passport and personal belongings safe.

Laws and cultural differences

Morocco's laws and customs are very different to those in the UK and reflect the fact that Morocco is an Islamic country. Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you plan to visit religious areas.

Sexual relations outside of marriage

Sexual activity between unmarried people and adultery are illegal for Moroccan nationals – this includes sharing a hotel room, particularly with foreign nationals.

The law regarding unmarried people sharing a hotel room does not generally apply to visiting foreign nationals, particularly in popular tourist areas.

Showing affection in public

Avoid showing affection in public, particularly in tourist areas and near religious sites.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, check when Ramadan is in Morocco before you go. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that doesn't meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Morocco. Avoid showing affection in public – complaints can lead to prosecution. See more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Women travellers

Women may receive unwanted attention in Morocco, especially when travelling alone. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest. See advice for woman travellers abroad.

Alcohol laws

Licensed hotels and bars in tourist areas serve alcohol. Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs is a serious offence and can result in a lengthy prison sentence and a heavy fine.

Sending passports by post

It is illegal to send passports by post in Morocco. The authorities will confiscate British passports sent to or through Morocco by post or courier. 

Laws against religious conversion

It is illegal to attempt to convert any Muslim to another faith and to distribute evangelical literature (such as Arabic-language bibles). Attempting to convert a Muslim to another faith is punishable by small fines up to 3 years' imprisonment.

Criticism of Islam on public platforms, in print or online media, or in public speeches is punishable by heavy fines and up 2 years' imprisonment.

Using cameras

It is illegal to take photographs near sensitive political or military sites.

Pornography

It is illegal to possess pornographic material. This includes printed material, cassettes and videocassettes and any type of material contrary to morality and public order.

Flying drones

You must get permission from the Directorate General for Civil Aviation (in French) to fly a drone. If you do not, you risk fines and confiscation of your equipment.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Morocco, see information on driving abroad.

You'll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. Morocco no longer accepts the 1949 version of the IDP.

If you stay longer than one year, you need a Moroccan driving licence.

You must get a green card from your insurer and carry it with you to prove you have the minimum insurance cover in Morocco.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age. 

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Morocco. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you will get a fine and possible imprisonment.

Driving conditions

Poor lighting can make it dangerous to drive at night. When weather conditions are poor, secondary routes and mountain roads can be especially hazardous. Be cautious of overloaded lorries and trucks overtaking when there is no hard shoulder

Road accidents

If you're involved in a road accident, complete a form ('constat amiable'), to be signed by both parties. Blank forms are available from insurance company booths in Tangier Port and tobacconists in all cities.

If you're involved in a fatal road accident, and the Moroccan authorities think you're responsible, they may detain you before a trial hearing.

Vehicle documentation

The authorities will record your registration number when you drive into Morocco. If you're not in the same vehicle when you try to leave the country, they will detain you and refuse to let you exit.

You'll need to show evidence of motor insurance when entering and exiting Morocco. Always carry your insurance, licence and registration documents with you.

Taxis

Many taxis booked through phone apps may be unregulated and unlicensed. Drivers may not be registered with the authorities and their vehicles may not be insured to carry passengers. The police may tell you to get out of an unlicensed taxi if they stop it. You should:

• think carefully before using unregulated or unlicensed taxis
• avoid sharing taxis with strangers – if your driver tries to pick up other passengers, insist they do not do this

Drivers of 'petits' or 'grands taxis' sometimes speed and do not follow other driving rules, particularly in big cities.    

Outdoor activities and adventure travel

Hiking in the Atlas Mountains

If you're planning to hike in the Atlas Mountains:

• research trails and how much experience you'll need
• pack essentials such as water, sunscreen and appropriate clothing
• hire a professional guide
• get comprehensive travel insurance and make sure it covers your planned activities

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a risk in Morocco. The last major earthquake, in 2023, killed almost 3,000 people. There are occasional minor earthquakes. Familiarise yourself with earthquake safety procedures and any instructions in hotel rooms.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Flooding

Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in some areas, particularly in the mountains or near rivers during winter months. Walking and driving can be dangerous in flooded areas. If you're near a flood, monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities.

This section has safety advice for regions of Morocco. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Western Sahara

Western Sahara is a disputed territory. If you're in Western Sahara and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Rabat, Morocco, who provide consular assistance for Western Sahara. See Western Sahara travel advice.

Morocco-Algeria border

The authorities have closed land and sea borders between Morocco and Algeria. They patrol and closely monitor them. Do not attempt to cross the border – it is illegal to cross without authorisation.

If you are in a boat or jet ski, make sure you:

• know where the border is
• stay within Moroccan waters
• have enough fuel to return to shore

People entering Algerian waters illegally are likely to be intercepted and investigated.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 150 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Morocco
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Morocco.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Morocco. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Henna tattoos

Henna tattoos can cause a painful allergic reaction including swelling and an itchy rash in some people.

Medication

If you have a UK prescription and need medication in Morocco, contact the nearest pharmacy. If they do not have your medication, they will ask you to get another prescription from a Moroccan doctor for an alternative medication. Pharmacies are open 24 hours in every city and district.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Morocco    

Public health facilities in Morocco struggle to provide adequate medical care. Private clinics are available. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Morocco where some staff will speak English. 

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Morocco

Ambulance: 150

Fire: 150

Police: 190

Gendarmerie (military police): 177

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO provides guidance on how to help yourself stay safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Morocco
• dealing with a death in Morocco
• being arrested in Morocco
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates  

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Morocco on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	No
Typhoid	Sometimes
Tetanus	Sometimes
Rabies	Sometimes
Malaria	No
Hepatitis A	Sometimes
Diphtheria	Sometimes

Overview:

Morocco has both public and private healthcare facilities, with private clinics mainly concentrated in Casablanca, Marrakech and Rabat. Pharmacies are widely available, even in rural areas. All travellers are advised to take out medical insurance prior to travelling.

Food Drink:

Tap water in Morocco is safe to drink, especially in cities like Casablanca, Fes, Tangier, Marrakech and Rabat, but tap water is best avoided in remote areas where the sources may be subject to contamination. Travellers with sensitive stomachs should also drink boiled water or opt for bottled water.

Meat and fish should be cooked and served hot.

Other Risks:

If venturing into higher altitude areas, you should acclimatise first to avoid altitude sickness.

Currency Information:

Moroccan Dirham (MAD; symbol Dh), where every 100-unit is called a santim. Notes are in denominations of Dh200, 100, 50, and 20. Coins are in denominations of Dh10, 5 and 1, as well as 20, 10 and 5 santim coins.

Credit Cards:

Cash is preferred in Morocco, but Mastercard and Visa are accepted in most hotels and restaurants. Using other types of credit cards may face some challenges.

ATMs:

Some ATMs in cities accept foreign cards.

Travellers Cheques:

Travellers' cheques are no longer popular and should be avoided.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0830-1830 (with most shut during lunch hours).

Currency Restrictions:

The Moroccan Dirham is a non-convertible currency, meaning it isn't traded internationally. You may, however, import or export a small amount (below Dh2,000).

There is no limit on the amount of foreign cash you can bring into Morocco.

Currency Exchange:

Euros are the easiest foreign currency to exchange and use licensed bureaux de change only – usually there is one at the airport. Keep the receipt issued as you may need to change your unspent Dirham back into the original national currency upon departure.

Avoid bringing Scottish or Northern Irish banknotes as they can't be exchanged in Morocco.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
MAD	Dh

Exchange Rates

10.62

12.64

10.21

Language

The official languages are Arabic and Tamazight (which is a combination of three major Moroccan Berber languages).

French is widely spoken, while English is understood in major tourist attractions.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Independence Manifesto Day	2024-01-11 00:00:00	0
Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)	2024-04-10 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)	2024-06-16 00:00:00	0
Fatih Muharram (Islamic New Year)	2024-07-08 00:00:00	0
Throne Day	2024-07-30 00:00:00	0
Oued Ed-Dahab Day	2024-08-14 00:00:00	0
Revolution Day	2024-08-20 00:00:00	0
King Mohammed IV's Birthday	2024-08-21 00:00:00	0
Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad)	2024-09-15 00:00:00	0
Green March Day	2024-11-06 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-11-18 00:00:00	0

Note:

Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given below are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Some disruption may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last up to several days, depending on the region.

Overview:

The following goods may be imported into Morocco without incurring customs duty:

.

Banned Imports:

Firearms and ammunition, narcotics, and publications containing immoral, sexual or offensive material.

Telephone:

With mobile networks so readily available, public payphones are becoming rare.

Mobile Telephone:

Morocco has excellent mobile coverage in cities and towns, but coverage is limited in remote areas.

Internet:

Most hotels provide Wi-Fi.

Rabat

Rabat is Morocco's capital city and has a beautiful blend of historic and modern buildings. The old town, surrounded by defensive walls, has a busy souk and a small mellah or Jewish quarter. Beyond it, wide boulevards are lined with embassies and government buildings, interspersed by attractive parks.

The Ksar of Aït Ben haddou

Chances are, you've seen the ksar (buildings made of mud bricks and fortified with high walls) of Aït Ben Haddou in some Hollywood blockbusters before, as they were featured in hits like Gladiator, The Mummy and Game of Thrones.

Chefchaouen

With pastel-blue painted houses scattering down a slope of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a pretty town. Chaouen, as it is otherwise known, is also a paradise for walkers keen to explore Morocco's most northerly mountain chains. Some tourists also come to seek out cannabis plantations in this mountainous region.

Fes (Fez)

Often called Morocco's cultural capital, Fes (or Fez) was once an imperial city of Morocco in the 13th century. Today, it is known for its vibrant Fes El Bali medina and souks, including the Chouara Tannery (one of the three in Fes with hundreds of containers filled with dye or white liquids).

Todgha Gorge

About 390km (242mi) east of Marrakesh lies the Todgha Gorge, a magnet for photographers, hikers and rock climbers. The canyon floor, which is either dry or has a trickling stream at times, offers travellers a chance to walk and look up at the imposing stone walls. Beware that sunlight only reaches the canyon floor for a few hours each day; hence the temperatures can be chilly.

Marrakech (Marrakesh)

Marrakech, also spelt Marrakesh, is known for its colourful souks which cover many winding alleyways in the northside of Jemaa El-Fna Square. Other popular activities include taking a breather in Jardin Majorelle, visiting the atmospheric El Badii Palace and getting an intimate glance into the lives of 19th-century royalty at Bahia Palace.

Casablanca

The economic hub of Morocco, Casablanca is a bustling metropolis filled to the brim with modern high-rises amid colonial art-deco buildings. Everywhere you turn, you can't miss the minaret of the stunning Hassan II Mosque. It is worth joining a tour to see the mosque interior, taking in the frescoes with geometrical motifs, intricate stuccoes, and arabesques with drawn or calligraphic motifs.

Medinas

A medina is an old walled town crisscrossed with narrow alleyways. It usually has a few mosques (known as jemaas), palaces, and a main square where commercial activities occur. The medinas of Essaouira, Fes, Marrakech and Tétouan are all on UNESCO's World Heritage list and well worth a visit.

National Parks and biospheres

Morocco has 11 national parks and several biospheres and reserves. Toubkal National Park, home to the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains, is most popular for trekking, while Souss-Massa National Park, near Agadir, offers beaches, cliffs, dunes, and Argania forests. Birdwatchers, on the other hand, seek out Oued-Massa Nature Reserve thanks to its rich bird fauna, both native and migrating.

Overview

Shopping in souks (traditional bazaars) is a way of life in Morocco – as families go there daily to buy what they need for the day. Souks fascinate travellers and now they are one of Morocco's greatest attractions.

The larger souks are often loosely divided into sections hosting different trades and vendors, such as spice merchants, carpet sellers and jewellery makers. Haggling is essential. A good tip is to start at 20% of the asking price and negotiate your bid from there.

Beyond traditional markets, Morocco Mall, stretching over 10 hectares (25 acres) with 70,000m² of retail space in Casablanca, is home to over 600 local and international brands.

Popular souvenirs include hand-woven Berber carpets, lanterns, babouches (Moroccan slippers), djellaba (a loose hooded robe), spices and handicrafts.

Opening Hours

Most souks open from 0900-2000, but those near a food market may stay later.

Morocco Mall operates from 1000-2100 and may extend for another hour on Fridays and Saturdays.

Overview

Morocco cuisine has a unique blend of Berber, Arab, African, Spanish and French influences. Meals range from a diffa, an elaborate multicourse feast featuring spiced salads, couscous and tagines, to quick brochettes (meat skewers) from roadside stalls. Produce is seasonally and locally grown.

Tagines, fragrant stews of meat, vegetables or fish, are named after the distinctive conical earthenware vessel they're cooked in, and are a Moroccan main staple. Flavours revolve around a subtle array of spices, and almost every family has their own secret recipe.

Moroccans drink a copious amount of mint tea (the national drink) which is made with high-caffeine gunpowder green tea, sugar, and fresh mint. Freshly-squeezed orange juice is also popular.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

In high-end restaurants, a service charge is usually included. Tipping is expected if no service charge is added. Most people round up the bill or leave a few dirhams. For example, if the meal costs 33 dirhams, it is polite to give 40 dirhams.

Drinking Age

18 (Non-Muslim visitors).

Hotels

Morocco has a thriving tourist industry and accordingly, there is no shortage of hotels in every budget range, class and style.

Riads, referring to traditional Moroccan houses designed around a courtyard garden, are favoured by many travellers, while international luxury chains like Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental are also available to visitors who value privacy and tranquillity.

Those looking for the simple pleasures of sun, sea and sand are likely to opt for a holiday resort with amenities along the Atlantic coast, particularly in Agadir.

Camping Caravaning

Traditionally, Morocco's indigenous tribes camp as they move from one place to another. And now tourists who venture into remote areas that lack hotel facilities also need to pitch a tent. Some campsites are basic, but others offer a 'luxury under canvas' experience with on-site restaurants, massage services, and even a front desk for your convenience.

Other

History

Whether you're strolling through the narrow streets of a medina, shopping for spices in a busy souk, or following a tour guide up to a remote Berber village, you can't escape the power of Moroccan history and the unique influences from the Berber, Arab, African, and later Spanish and French.

The indigenous Berber people are thought to have lived in Morocco, especially the Atlas Mountains range, for thousands of years. They survived through the Ancient Roman period and later a cycle of rising and falling Islamic dynasties. In 1884, Spain established a protectorate in coastal areas of Morocco and then the French came in 1912 and made Morocco their protectorate (while Spain was allowed to operate in Zones of influence in northern and southern Morocco).

In 1956, Morocco gained its independence following unrest but Spain kept its two coastal enclaves – Ceuta and Melilla. Sultan Mohammed V was reinstalled; this means that the Alaouite dynasty, which has been reigning since 1666, continues to rule to this day.

Did you know?
• The Guinness World Records consider al-Qarawiyyin or Karueein University, founded in Fez in 859, to be the oldest in the world.
• The world's largest swimming pool is in Casablanca. It is 480m (1,574 ft) long and 75 m (246 ft) wide, and has an area of 3.6ha (8.9acres).

Religion

99% of Morocco's population are Muslims (almost all Sunni Muslims). Jewish, Christians and other religions make up the other 1%.

Social Conventions

Morocco's culture is a blend of religious and ethnic traditions, encompassing Berber, Arab, African, Mediterranean, and Jewish influences. Greetings between men usually start with "Salam Alaikum" (peace be upon you) and may either involve a handshake or kisses on both cheeks, followed by friendly inquiries after health, happiness and family. Females may kiss on the cheeks, usually three times.

Travellers should observe local courtesies. Men and women should not wear revealing clothing in public – beachwear, sleeveless tops, shorts, and clingy clothing are acceptable by the hotel pool but not in public places.

Sexual relations outside marriage and homosexual conduct are punishable by law, yet Morocco has long been a destination favoured by LGBTQ+ travellers given its liberal reputation in the 1950s and 60s. While modern Moroccans are tolerant, displaying affection in public between same-sex couples is best avoided.

Smoking is widespread, though prohibited in enclosed public spaces.

Drinking alcohol in public isn’t allowed, and should be consumed discreetly indoors.

Best Time To Visit:

Morocco's climate is very diverse, varying with the season and region. The climate is Mediterranean on the coasts, humid temperate at higher elevations, and hot and dry in the south-western part.

Coastal cities in the north – Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca – all have a similar Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and relatively warm and wet winters. In Casablanca, August is often the hottest month with an average high of 30°C (86°F) and maybe 10mm (0.4in) of rain. January is slightly cooler, with an average high of 18°C (64°F). Rainfall is abundant from November to March. The best time to visit these coastal cities is from May to September as the period is warm and dry.

Marrakech, which lies inland in the Tensift River valley, has a subtropical semi-desert with very hot summers and warm winters. Temperatures do fluctuate significantly between day and night. For more information, see the weather in Marrakech and the best time to go guide.

The Atlas Mountains are popular from March to November, although the scorching heat between June and August may make travelling uncomfortable.

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Required Clothing

Lightweight cottons and linens are best worn during summer, with a jacket for cooler evenings. In winter, pack light to medium-weight clothing. Waterproof gear may also be needed, depending on where and when you are going.

Men and women should not wear revealing clothing in public – beachwear, sleeveless tops, shorts, and clingy clothing are acceptable by the hotel pool but not in public places.

Dialing Code:

+212

Area(sq km):

716,550 km sq

Population:

36.47 million

Population Density(per sq km):

83 per km sq

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

15