morocco travel advice canada

18 things to know before traveling to Morocco

Oct 15, 2023 • 7 min read

It helps to learn a little lingo: here's what to know before your trip to Morocco © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

I am originally from the UK and have been living in Morocco since 2018. There are things I wish I'd known before jumping headfirst into the seemingly lawless world of Moroccan taxis and bargaining in the souqs.

Morocco reveals the full spectrum of real life: the good, the bad, the ugly and the oh-so beautiful. For some visitors, Morocco can be a huge culture shock. But with some awareness and understanding, it is possible to appreciate these differences, connect more deeply and see the country through a different lens without trying to change it.

1. Plan your itinerary loosely and allow for changes

Research the places in Morocco you’d like to visit but leave wiggle room for changes along the way and enjoy the spontaneity that Morocco allows. While it’s possible to pre-book tours and activities, it’s usually just as easy to reserve them when you arrive in the country.

2. Take public transport, especially in cities

Driving in cities such as Casablanca and Marrakesh is best left to the locals. 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. Book professional guides

To get the most out of your trip to Morocco, use a guide who has in-depth expertise and speaks your language. In cities, check with the local tourism office or your accommodations for recommendations for licensed guides in the area. If you’re surfing, check ISA’s directory of certified instructors .

Hiking guides are mandatory for climbing Mt Toubkal in the High Atlas. Check with Bureau des Guides .

4. Understand the written and unwritten rules of the road

In Morocco, you drive on the right side of the road and seatbelts are mandatory, even though some taxis don't have them. Car horns are used often - not in an aggressive way, but as a means of communication. 

Watch out for people, bicycles, motorcycles and animals coming from all sides. Avoid driving at night because some vehicles do not have or use their lights. Take notice of the speed limits and the roundabouts that have stoplight systems. If you’re stopped for speeding – police speed checks are common – or other penalties, having cash on you to pay fines (usually between Dh150 ($15US) and Dh300) is preferable to going to a local police station.

5. Practice the art of haggling 

Haggling is a game and part of the shopping experience in Morocco . Try not to get frustrated – the ideal scenario is that both sides come away feeling like they got a fair price. 

For big purchases, do your research, have a price in mind or shop around until you do. Sometimes vendors say to pay what you feel like, so if you don't have a price, ask some questions: how many hours did it take to make? Where did the materials come from and at what price?

The souqs are filled with fake tennis shoes, which are just that: fakes. Many Moroccans don't care whether their Nikes are original; they just want the best price for the latest styles.

6. Cash or card?  

The Moroccan dirham is a closed currency, which means you cannot use or get it outside the country. Morocco’s rural areas still operate on a cash economy, but cards are widely accepted in towns and cities.

7. Learn some of the lingo 

A mixture of French, Arabic, Amazigh and English is spoken in Morocco, depending on where you are in the country. Don't expect everyone to speak English. Apps like Google Translate can be useful, but learning some basic Arabic phrases will reward you with feeling more connected and engaged with people you meet.

8. Respect the motto of ‘God, king and country’

These words are etched on hills around the country. Islam is the state religion, and the rules of Islam are applied to personal matters in the same way that state law works in other countries. It is illegal to speak disrespectfully about religion or the king. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter mosques or cemeteries, except the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca . Friday is a holy day across the country, and most people take a few hours off in the afternoon to go to the mosque and eat couscous with their families afterward. Check business opening times before you visit if you're heading to a particular place on a Friday.

The holy month of Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid offer a different cultural experience, and during these times many places will be closed.

9. Things to know before going to Marrakesh

Marrakesh is the most popular city in Morocco for visitors, so pre-book entrance tickets to major attractions such as Jardin Majorelle and Musée Yves Saint Laurent online to avoid waiting in line. The Marrakesh medina comes to life around 5 p.m., but the 'pink city' is more than just the medina – spend time exploring Gueliz and step off the main boulevards onto the leafy side streets to discover pretty street cafes, bistro restaurants and small indie boutiques.

10. The dress code depends on where you are

To visit the Hassan II Mosque and other religious sites, visitors – both men and women – must cover to their shoulders and knees. Dress modestly in cities and towns to avoid unwanted attention. At bars and nightclubs, almost anything goes, but in rural areas, cover up and be respectful of the local customs. 

At the beach, you can wear shorts, dresses, vest tops and swimwear including bikinis. Pack comfortable footwear that’s suitable for uneven roads and a scarf to cover your shoulders.

11. Ask before taking photos of people 

No matter where you are in the world, it’s best to ask permission before taking someone’s photo. Many people are fine with it, but others aren’t. Some may ask for money. Do not take photos of military or government buildings. Drones are not allowed in Morocco without special permission. 

12. Learn how to deal with the hassle

Simply ignore people who offer goods that you do not want. There's no need to be polite to everyone who wants to sell you something. By not reacting, they'll get bored and walk away. 

In some places you may receive comments and, at worst, inappropriate behavior, but shouting ‘Police!’ will send these people away. In Marrakesh, there's also a high chance you will alert the undercover tourist police.

13. Can you drink alcohol in Morocco? 

Even though alcohol is forbidden by Islamic law, it is widely available and sold in licensed wine shops and international grocery stores. Not all bars and restaurants serve alcohol. 

14. Eat with your right hand

Moroccan cuisine such as tagines and grilled fish are traditionally eaten with bread using your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean because it’s typically the hand used when going to the toilet. 

15. It’s okay to get lost

Getting lost is part of the joy of exploring Morocco with its unmarked roads, the maze of souq alleys and areas of no cell phone reception. Relax but be aware of your surroundings and ask for help if you need it.

In medinas, it’s helpful to know that if the street sign is a hexagon, it's a dead end. If it’s a square, it’s a through street.

16. Don’t drink the tap water

Morocco’s tap water is not safe to drink. Bring a water bottle with a filter to avoid buying plastic.

17. Bring tissues for public toilets

Some public toilets do not have toilet paper. Unless you are comfortable using water to clean yourself, keep a pack of tissues and some anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes on you.

18. Street cats and dogs are everywhere and part of the community 

It’s best not to feed street animals from your table because they might not leave, but you can keep leftovers and feed them elsewhere on the street.

See whether a rescue center is set up in the communities you’re visiting and show your support with donations or by volunteering your time.

Explore related stories

Festivals & Events

Mar 11, 2024 • 5 min read

Morocco is a fantastic year-round vacation destination, but the best time of year to travel will depend on your interests and holiday needs.

Feb 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 15 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Nov 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 20, 2023 • 5 min read

Oct 11, 2023 • 7 min read

• Book Travel
• Credit Cards

Morocco Reopening to Canadian Travellers: What You Need to Know

Information may change on a day-by-day basis. While we make every effort to keep the information here updated, the responsibility to keep abreast of ever-changing travel restrictions is ultimately your own.

Morocco reopened to tourism on June 15, 2021, following the increase of COVID-19 vaccinations worldwide. Visitors have flowed in accordingly, with Morocco reporting a 223.3% increase in tourism revenue as of October 2021. 

Indeed, the popular North African destination is fully open to Canadian travellers, meaning we can once again step into the Marrakesh Medina, marvel at the blue-on-blue buildings in Chefchaouen, and sleep under the stars in the Erg Chebbi desert.

Morocco Travel Restrictions

As of February 2022, people of all nationalities are eligible to enter Morocco, provided they meet all vaccination and testing requirements.

How Can Canadians Enter Morocco?

All Canadians are allowed to enter Morocco by sea as well as by air. As of October 2021, when departing Canada by air, travellers are required to present proof of vaccination .

By sea, permitted transit points include Genoa, Italy and Marseille, France. Travellers must have a PCR test result taken while on board in order to disembark in Morocco.

Buy air, travellers must fulfill one of the following criteria prior to boarding for entry without quarantine:

• Children less than 11 are exempt.
• Recognized vaccines include AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, Sputnik, Pfizer/BioNTech, Janssen, Covishield, Moderna, and Sinovac.

Travellers must also complete a health form prior to entry.

Testing & Quarantine Upon Arrival

For those arriving from List A, there is no mandatory test or quarantine upon arrival.

Travellers from List B must complete a mandatory 10-day quarantine at a hotel designated by local authorities, as well as take a PCR test on Day 9.

Testing & Quarantine Upon Return

As of April 1, 2022, a negative test is no longer required prior to travelling back to Canada.

If you need to find a test in COVID-19 test in Morocco, they  appear difficult to locate, so it’s best to reach out to your hotel for assistance. Tests appear to cost in the 700 MAD (~$96) range and you can also call the Moroccan Ministry of Health at +212 (0)8-01-47-47 to find options near you, as per the US Embassy .

Alternatively, consider purchasing a Switch Health RT-LAMP or antigen test kit for an easy remote testing option via telehealth video link.

Current Health Requirements in Morocco

Health and safety requirements are abundant in Morocco, with requirements resembling Asia more than Europe.

The early 9pm curfew is no longer in effect, and cafes, restaurants, beaches, shops, and museums are all open for business. Dining establishments have a mandatory closing time of 11pm.

That being said, there is still a shorter curfew from 11pm and 5am, and inter-city travel throughout the country is subject to the presentation of a vaccination pass.

All shops, resorts, museums, and cultural sites will be checking temperature at the entrance and mandating hand disinfection. 

Playgrounds and other green spaces are open, and masks are mandatory throughout the entire space.

Masks are required everywhere indoors and in all public transportation. Furthermore, masks are mandatory if you are travelling in a car accompanied (e.g., a taxi).

How to Get to Morocco

Morocco is surprisingly close to Eastern Canada in geographical terms. Direct flights such as Montreal–Casablanca cost just 60,000 Aeroplan points in business class one-way.

From Toronto, you can squeeze in just under the 4,000-mile threshold on the “Between North America and Atlantic zone” chart with a connection in Lisbon, also for 60,000 Aeroplan points.

A different routing through Europe, or a departure from Western Canada, will jump to the next distance band and will cost 70,000 Aeroplan points one-way in business class.

For greater luxury in First Class, consider flying Lufthansa First Class via Frankfurt for either 100,000 or 120,000 Aeroplan points one-way, depending on where in Canada you are originating.

For a more interesting “sweet spot” redemption, you can also book Royal Air Maroc business class for just 44,000 Etihad Guest miles one-way in business class. Royal Air Maroc serves Montreal, New York JFK, Washington, D.C., and Miami.

You can search for award space using the American AAdvantage calendar or ExpertFlyer , and call Etihad to book.

Morocco is currently open to all Canadian travellers, regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status. Either present your vaccine card if you are vaccinated,or present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within the last 72 hours if you are not.

That being said, proof of vaccination is required for inter-city travel – although not required anywhere else. All museums, restaurants, and tours are open and running with no capacity limits, but mandatory masking in effect.

As always, you can refer to our  Travel During COVID-19 Resource for Canadians  for the most up-to-date information on travelling in the pandemic era.

• Earn 80,000 MR points upon spending $15,000 in the first three months
• Plus, earn  40,000 MR points  upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
• And, earn 1.25x MR points on all purchases
• Also, receive a $200 annual travel credit
• Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
• Unlimited airport lounge access for you and one guest at Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Centurion, and other lounges
• Credits and rebates for business expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
• Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
• Qualify for the card as a sole proprietor
• Annual fee: $799

Hello from the medina in Marrakech,

I arrived in Morroco more than a week ago on TAP Portugal YYZ-LIS on an A321LR! It was a good flight. Connected to Casablanca on an E190. Then Royal Air Maroc to Agadir on a 737.

Covid19 restrictions are generally very loose here these days. The only places enforcing masks (sort of) and checking for vaccination status are on domestic flights, banks, museums and big Westernized: shopping malls, hotels, posh restaurants (masking only on the staff). Local riads/hotels, shops and restaurants don’t bother. There were no checks on my intercity bus from Agadir to Marrakech, and I will see about my train to Casablanca tomorrow. Almost nobody is wearing a mask outdoors and very very few people are masking up indoors. For the locals, life seems back to normal. I seem to be the only person wearing a mask in taxis or the intercity bus.

Last week Morocco banned all flights from UK, Germany and Netherlands without prior notice, blaming the rise in Covid cases in those countries. My hotelier thinks Belgium is next. No word on duration of the flight bans. For most of September and October, Canada banned direct flights from Morocco (Casablanca to Montreal) which was only lifted last week. International travel restrictions are still dicey it seems. Fingers crossed for my flight home on Wednesday.

Tourism doesn’t seemed to have returned to the secondary destinations in Morocco (hello Taroudant), but Marrakech was buzzing this weekend with Europeans (travel bans notwithstanding) eager for a weekend escape. All the posh and trendy bars and restaurants were full up. And the locals are out in throngs, enjoying life as “normal”.

TT, pauper of travel

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Prince of Travel is Canada’s leading resource for using frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and loyalty programs to travel the world at a fraction of the price.

Join our Sunday newsletter below to get weekly updates delivered straight to your inbox.

Have a question? Just ask.

Business Platinum Card from American Express

120,000 MR points

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

85,000 Aeroplan points

American Express Platinum Card

100,000 MR points

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Up to 85,000 Aeroplan points†

Latest News

Which Hotel Free Night Certificate Is the Most Powerful?

Guides Mar 28, 2024

Major Changes to the Amex US Hilton Honors Business Card

News Mar 28, 2024

Head-to-Head: Air Canada Aeroplan vs. Air France KLM Flying Blue

Guides Mar 27, 2024

Recent Discussion

How to access american express centurion lounges, the complete guide to qatar airways first class, prince of travel elites.

Points Consulting

Everything to know before travelling to Morocco

Recently updated on August 1st, 2023 at 03:48 pm

Morocco is an enchanting land of medinas, markets, mosques and the famous Sahara Desert. Whether you want to explore the medieval streets of Fez or follow the path of a thousand kasbahs to the Dades Valley, there are a few things you’ll need to know before you go. We’ve put together a guide with our best Morocco travel tips including where to go, what to eat, what to wear and important cultural customs in Morocco.

Best places visit in Morocco

Dive into the romance and mystery of Casablanca, a city made famous by Hollywood. The city’s traditional Arab culture mixed with remnants from the French colonial period makes for an interesting blend of art deco buildings, regal palaces and old stone medinas. Don’t miss the iconic Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest mosque in the world, and one of few open to non-Muslims. You can also wander the beachfront district of La Corniche and see the grand King’s Palace. Explore fascinating museums like the unique Museum of Moroccan Judaism, and experience the daily life of locals in the maze of alleyways in the Old Medina.

You can’t miss Fez when you visit Morocco. As the country’s oldest imperial city, Fez is famed for its unique character and rich culture. See the royal palace or go exploring in Medina, one of the largest medieval centres in the world. Visit the colourful dye-pits and tanneries to learn about Morocco’s ancient leathercraft. We’ll even take you to a special dining experience in a traditional Riad. You’ll sample fine Moroccan food and wine and enjoy live bands and traditional entertainment like belly dancing.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Morocco

Make your way through the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to the ‘Red City’ of Marrakesh. It’s a former imperial city with both a medina (old fortified city) and a modern city that are just begging to be explored. You’ll find the largest traditional souk (market) in the country where you can find traditional souvenirs and learn to haggle. Or head to the Djemaa el Fna Square in the Old Quarter where you’ll meet acrobats, camels and palm readers. You can also visit the gorgeous Bahia Palace, wander the beautiful Majorelle Gardens, and see the mausoleum housing the tombs of the Saadi family who ruled in the 17th century. Our top Morocco travel tip? Marrakesh gets even better by night. Explore the magical Jemaa el Fna Square for exotic sights and sounds, and enjoy dinner in a traditional Moroccan restaurant, complete with local food, music and entertainment.

Take a drive through the impressive Todra Gorge and some of the most spectacular mountains in the country to reach Tinghir. It’s one of the most beautiful oases in Morocco and is home to the ruins of the ancient Glaoui palace. Be sure to make it to the top of the ancient kasbah where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the whole oasis.

Dades Valley

Follow the route of a thousand kasbahs to the blooming Dades Valley, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. Take a jeep out to the sand dunes of the mighty Sahara Desert and watch the glorious sunset (or sunrise). Meet the Berber locals and learn about their life in the desert. You could even try on a traditional Berber headdress, used by tribesmen to protect themselves from the brutal desert sand and sun.

Aït Ben Haddou

The UNESCO-listed fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou can be found way up in the High Atlas Mountains near the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass. It’s known as a ksar, a group of buildings made from earth and surrounded by high defensive walls and corner towers. This traditional pre-Saharan village is an extraordinary piece of southern Moroccan architecture. Don’t forget to check out the surrounding Ouarzazate province. You might recognise the desert landscapes from famous movies like ‘Cleopatra’, ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Lawrence of Arabia’.

Chefchaouen

Known as the ‘Blue Pearl of Morocco’, Chefchaouen’s streets are washed in beautiful shades of blue , while the striking Rif Mountains overlook the town. You can spend hours wandering through the blue in this laidback town or take a tour to learn about the rich history and culture. See the Grand Mosque and marvel at the medina’s stunning natural water spring. Pick up some souvenirs in the traditional souk and visit the Andalusian Gardens where you’ll find the fascinating Kasbah Museum. 

RELATED CONTENT: 9 “Classic Blue” travel destinations inspired by 2020’s Pantone colour of the year

Travel to the relaxing shores of Essaouira, where you can eat tons of delicious seafood and see the iconic blue boats in the harbour. You can also explore the UNESCO-listed medina, Skala fortress and the walled Jewish Quarter. We’ll even take you to a local cooperative where you can sample cosmetics made from traditional ingredients.

Head to the coastline to the magical capital city, Rabat. There are plenty of incredible sights to see, including the intricate Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Wander the tranquil Andalusian Gardens and the king’s official residence built from an 18th-century palace. Explore Chellah, a medieval fortified city in the heart of Rabat and learn to haggle in the Old Medina. Take a walk on the beach or walk through the original door of the city in Kasbah des Oudaias, where you’ll find whitewashed streets and gorgeous ocean views.

Foods to try in Morocco

This slow-cooked stew is an icon in Morocco. Tagine gets its name from the traditional conical-shaped clay or ceramic dish it’s cooked in. There are endless types of tagine to try including tender meat (usually lamb, beef or chicken) and veggie-only stews. Tagine is traditionally eaten straight from the cooking dish. You’ll be served khobz (Moroccan bread) to scoop up every last drop of the delicious stew. One of our top Morocco travel tips is to put down the knife and fork and embrace the hands-on Moroccan way of eating.

Bastilla is Morocco’s tasty answer to the savoury pie and it’s a beloved dish originating from Fez. It’s made from layers of thin pastry layered over a blend of pigeon meat, fried almonds scented with orange flower water, and an omelette spiced with cinnamon, saffron and coriander. The whole thing is dusted with cinnamon and icing sugar and it’s a truly amazing blend of flavours and textures. Although pigeon meat is the traditional bird of choice, it’s now more common to find chicken in your bastilla.

Couscous (also known as seksu) is a staple in Morocco, often served on a super-sized plate for everyone to share. It’s a dish of steamed balls of crushed semolina, and one of the most popular ways to cook it is by steaming it over a stew of meat and vegetables. The meat is then covered by a pyramid of couscous, and the vegetables are pressed into the sides. Top it off with a sweet raisin preserve, or if you’re dining Berber-style, a bowl of buttermilk. 

RELATED CONTENT: Morocco Destination Guide

What to wear in Morocco

Morocco is a conservative country, with more than 90% of its population identifying as Muslims. When it comes to clothing in Morocco, there is no strict dress code, but you will need to dress modestly.

Both men and women should ensure that their clothes cover their shoulders, décolletage, thighs and stomach. Clothes should not be see-through or form-fitting. It is not acceptable for either sex to wear sleeveless tops or short skirts and shorts. You should also avoid wearing or carrying flashy jewellery, watches, handbags or electronics, as this may attract unwanted attention.

For women, you’ll need to wear long, loose-fitting skirts, dresses and pants that cover most of your legs and arms. Women are not required to wear a veil, but you can wear a headscarf if you like. A light scarf is a fantastic accessory for women, as you can use it to cover your head or shoulders when needed, without baking in the summer heat.

If you’re not sure what to wear, just ask your guide or observe what the locals wear and do the same.

Customs and etiquette in Morocco

Religious etiquette.

Islam is the state religion of Morocco and disrespecting Islam can be deeply offensive to locals. While it’s okay to ask questions to learn more about the religion, you should avoid offering any opinions that may be controversial. You’ll also need to respect rules that forbid non-Muslims from entering areas like mosques and shrines. Looking from the outside is fine but you should never get too close to mosques and shrines that don’t allow non-Muslims to enter.

Never disrespect the monarchy

Morocco has lèse–majesté laws that make criticising, mocking or speaking badly about the Moroccan king illegal. It’s also illegal to deface anything with the king’s image. One of our most important Morocco travel tips is to take this seriously, as breaking this law could lead to a jail sentence of up to three years.

It’s okay to wear bikinis and swimsuits at the beach, but you should always cover up when you leave, even if you’re just heading back to your hotel. It doesn’t matter how hot the temperatures get – never wear your swimsuit anywhere other than the beach.

Haggling in the souks

You can find everything in Morocco’s colourful souks, from spices and teas to lamps, pipes and leather. If you can’t resist loading up on souvenirs to take home, you’ll need to learn how to haggle! Haggling is a huge part of Moroccan culture. There are no set rules but you should always negotiate any first offer to get the best price. Always remember to smile and don’t get too hung up on forcing the price down. Anywhere from 20 to 50% off the starting price is usually a good deal.

You should always tip 10 to 15% to service staff in cafes, restaurants, museums, hotels and porters who load your bags. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but it is always appreciated.

Watch your hands! It’s considered rude to use your index finger to motion a person to approach you. Moroccans call someone over by placing the palm downward and sweeping the hand toward themselves.

Table etiquette

Moroccans eat with their hands rather than a knife and fork and you should give it a go. Be careful to only use your right hand as Muslims only eat with their right hand. The left hand is considered unclean as it’s the hand used for the toilet. The easiest way to do it is to hold a piece of bread between your fingers and use your thumb as a scoop. You’ll be eating like a local in no time!

In the home

If you’re invited to a home, you should take your shoes off before entering the reception rooms. If you’re not sure, just follow your host’s lead! It is also custom to take a gift like tea or sweet pastries.

Common Moroccan phrases

You won’t have much trouble finding English-speaking locals in major tourist areas like Rabat, Fez, Marrakesh and Casablanca. But don’t expect to find as many English-speakers in the more remote areas. One of our best Morocco travel tips is to learn a few phrases of basic Moroccan Arabic before you go. You’ll be able to communicate a little more easily with the locals, and even if you’re not perfect, your attempts at speaking the local language will be greatly appreciated. Here are a few common phrases to get you started:

As-salaam Alaykum – Hello (literally translates to ‘peace be with you’). Sbah l’kheir – Good morning Labas? – How are you? GoodIyah – Yes La – No Afak – Please Shukrun – Thank you Aoudi Afak – Repeat please Ma’arft – I don’t know/I’m not sure Kayna…..? – Do you have…? Atini…. – I would like… Owni afak – Help me please

Are you dreaming of a trip to Morocco? Do you have any great Morocco travel tips to share? Let us know in the comments below…

Want to hear more from us?

Sign up to receive inspiring travel articles, offers & news

" * " indicates required fields

Privacy Overview

Sign up for our emails.

Language selection

Canada and morocco.

Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Morocco. Includes information about coming to Canada.

Travel advice and advisories - Morocco

Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Travel advice, passport and entry requirements, health and safety information, and more.

Services and information

Coming to canada.

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Travelling outside of Canada

Travel advice for how to stay safe and returning to Canada.

Living abroad

Everything you need to know to prepare to leave Canada to live in a foreign country.

Canada-Morocco relations

Canada’s diplomatic, economic or cultural relationship with Morocco.

Doing business in Morocco

Business opportunities, market and sector advantages and other insights.

Most requested

• Authentication of documents
• Registration of Canadians Abroad
• Electronic travel authorization (eTA)

Find a Government of Canada embassy, high commission or consulate

• Canada and Morocco news (Canada news)
• Canada and Morocco news (Local statements)

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

• Embassy of Canada to Morocco and Mauritania

Terms of service

X (Twitter)

• @CanEmbMorocco

Situation in Haiti March 29, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

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 .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, morocco map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Travel Tips Morocco for planning and on the go

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• travel-advice
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Itineraries
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

More travel information 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 to Morocco
• How to get around in Morocco
• Shopping tips for Morocco
• Travelling with children in Morocco
• Best time to visit Morocco
• How to get a Morocco Visa

Costs for food, accommodation and travel in Morocco are low by European or North American standards. If you stay in the cheaper hotels (or camp out), eat local food, and share expenses and rooms with another person, £150/$250 each a week would be enough to survive on. On £300/$500 each you could live pretty well, while with £700–1000/$1000–1500 a week between two people you would be approaching luxury.

Crime and personal safety

Electricity, entry requirements, gay and lesbian travellers, left luggage, living in morocco, opening hours, photography, tourist information, travellers with disabilities, guides, hustlers, conmen and kids, travelling with children, tailor-made travel itineraries for morocco, created by local experts.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Accommodation costs range from £10/$15 a night – sometimes even less – for a double room in a basic hotel to as much as £300/$450 a night in a top luxury hotel or riad. The price of a meal reflects a similar span, ranging from £4/$6 to around £25/$35 a meal. Alcohol is really the only thing that compares unfavourably with Western prices: a bottle of cheap Moroccan wine costs £3.50/$5, a can of local beer about £1/$1.50 in the shops, £2.50/$4 in a normal bar, or £5/$7.50 in clubs.

Inevitably, resorts and larger cities (Marrakesh especially) are more expensive than small towns with few tourists, but in remote parts of the country (including trekking regions in the High Atlas), where goods have to be brought in from some distance, prices for provisions can be high.ma

Beyond accommodation and food, your major outlay will be for transport – expensive if you’re renting a car (prices start at around £200/$300 a week plus fuel), but very reasonable if you use the local trains, buses and shared taxis (see Fares).

Youth/student ID cards can save you a small amount of money, entitling you to cheaper entry at some museums and other sights, and a small discount on some ferry tickets and domestic airfares. They’re not worth going out of your way to get, but if you have one you may as well bring it along.

In the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, prices for most things are the same as they are in mainland Spain (except that there is no duty on alcohol, tobacco and electronic goods), and around twice as expensive as in Morocco proper.

Hidden costs

You’ll probably end up buying a few souvenirs . Rugs, carpets, leather, woodwork, pottery and jewellery are all outstanding – and few travellers leave without something.

Harder to come to terms with is the fact that you’ll be confronting real poverty . As a tourist, you’re not going to solve any problems, but with a labourer’s wages often little more than 5dh (40p/60¢) an hour, even small tips can make a lot of difference to people. For Moroccans, giving alms to beggars is natural, and a requirement of Islam, especially since there is no social security here, so for tourists, rich by definition, local poverty demands at least some response. Do not, however, dispense money indiscriminately to children , which encourages pestering and promotes a dependence on begging.

Keep your luggage and money secure. Morocco does not have a high crime rate, but it is obviously unwise to carry large sums of cash or valuables on your person – especially in Casablanca and Tangier, and to a lesser extent Fez and Marrakesh. Mugging as such is pretty rare – those who fall victim to theft usually have things taken by stealth, or are subject to some kind of scam (see Guides, hustlers, conmen and kids). Be especially vigilant at transport stations (new arrivals are favourite targets, and just before departure is a favourite time to strike) and in crowd situations where pickpockets may operate. Credit card fraud is also relatively common, so don’t let the plastic out of your sight while using it, and keep an eye out when withdrawing money from ATMs.

Hotels , generally, are secure and useful for depositing money before setting out to explore; larger ones will keep valuables at reception and some will have safes. Campsites are considerably less secure, and many campers advise using a money belt – to be worn even while sleeping. If you do decide on a money belt (and many people spend time quite happily without), leather or cotton materials are preferable to nylon, which can irritate in the heat.

There are two main types of Moroccan police : the Gendarmerie (who wear grey uniforms and man the checkpoints on main roads, at junctions and the entry to towns), and the Police ( Sûreté ), who wear navy blue uniforms or plain clothes. Either may demand to see your passport (and/or driving papers). It is obligatory to carry official ID (in practice a passport), though you should not have any problems if you leave yours in a hotel safe while wandering around town, especially if you carry a photocopy of the important pages. You are unlikely to have any contact with the green-uniformed Force Auxiliaire , a backup force who wear berets and look more like the army.

The gendarmes have jurisdiction outside built-up areas, the police, within towns. Both are usually polite and helpful to visitors, and there is a Brigade Touristique in cities such as Marrakesh and Fez, specifically set up to protect tourists.

If you do need to report a theft , try to take along a fluent French- or Arabic-speaker if your own French and Arabic are not too hot. You may only be given a scrap of paper with an official stamp to show your insurance company, who then have to apply themselves to a particular police station for a report (in Arabic). If you cannot prove that a theft has taken place, the police may decline to make any report, especially if the theft is of money only. They will always give you a report, however, if you have lost any official document (passport, driving licence, etc).

Kif and hashish

The smoking of kif (marijuana) and hashish (cannabis resin) has long been a regular pastime of Moroccans and tourists alike, but it is nonetheless illegal, and large fines (plus prison sentences for substantial amounts) do get levied for possession. If you are arrested for cannabis, the police may expect to be paid off, and this should be done as quickly as possible while the minimum number of officers are involved (but offer it discreetly, and never refer to it as a bribe or even a cadeau ). Consulates are notoriously unsympathetic to drug offenders, but they can help with technical problems and find you legal representation.

Obviously, the best way to avoid trouble is to keep well clear – above all, of the kif -growing region of Ketama in the Rif mountains – and always reply to hustlers by saying you don’t smoke. If you are going to indulge, be very careful who you buy it from (definitely do not buy it from touts or hustlers), and above all do not try to take any out of the country, even to Spain, where attitudes to possession are relaxed but much harsher for importing. Searches at Algeciras and Málaga can be very thorough, with sniffer dogs, which also operate at Moroccan ports and airports, and you’ll get sometimes as many as four checks if travelling through Ceuta or Melilla.

The supply is 220v 50Hz. Sockets have two round pins, as in Europe. You should be able to find adaptors in Morocco that will take North American plugs (but North American appliances may need a transformer, unless multi-voltage). Adaptors for British and Australasian plugs will need to be brought from home.

If you hold a full passport from the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU country, you don’t need a visa to enter Morocco as a tourist for up to ninety days. However, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry, and always double check your visa requirements before departure as the situation can change. South African citizens are among those who need a visa; applications should be made to the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country of residence (South Africans should be able to get one in London), with three passport photos, and a form that you can download from the websites of some Moroccan consulates (for example, London’s at w moroccanembassylondon.org.uk/Docs/VisaForm.pdf ).

Entry formalities are fairly straightforward, though you will have to fill in a form stating personal details, purpose of visit and your profession . In the past, Moroccan authorities have shown an occasional reluctance to allow in those who categorize themselves as “journalist”; an alternative profession on the form might be wise.

Customs regulations

You can bring in, without charge: one litre of spirits, or two litres of wine; 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 400g of tobacco; 150ml of perfume or 250ml of eau de toilette; jewellery; a camera and a laptop for personal use; gifts worth up to 2000dh (£150/$240). Prohibited goods include arms and ammunition (except for hunting), controlled drugs, and “books, printed matter, audio and video cassettes and any immoral items liable to cause a breach of the peace”.

Items such as electronic equipment and video cameras may occasionally be entered on your passport. If you lose them during your visit, they will be assumed “sold” when you come to leave and (unless you have police documentation of theft) you will have to pay one hundred percent duty. All goods entered on your passport should be “cleared” when leaving to prevent problems on future trips. Vehicles need a Green Card.

Carrying ID

It is in theory obligatory in Morocco to carry official ID at all times. In practice, a photocopy of the important pages of your passport will do, so long as the real thing is in your hotel in the same town. When travelling between towns, you should always have your passport on you.

Visa extensions

To extend your stay in Morocco you should – officially – apply to the Bureau des Étrangers in the nearest main town for a residence permit. This is, however, a very complicated procedure and it is usually possible to get round the bureaucracy by simply leaving the country for a brief time when your three months are up. If you decide to do this – and it is not foolproof – it is best to make a trip of at least a few days outside Morocco. Spain is the obvious choice and some people just go to Ceuta; the more cautious re-enter the country at a different post. If you are unlucky, you may be turned back and asked to get a re-entry visa . These can be obtained from any Moroccan consulate abroad.

Extending a stay officially involves opening a bank account in Morocco (a couple of days’ procedure in itself) and obtaining an Attestation de Résidence from your hotel, campsite or landlord. You will need a minimum of 20,000dh (£1500/$2400) in your account.

You then need to go to the Bureau des Étrangers in the central police station of a large town at least fifteen days before your time is up, equipped with: your passport and a photocopy of its main pages; four passport photos; two copies of the Attestation de Résidence ; and two copies of your bank statement ( Compte de Banque ). If the police are not too busy they’ll give you a form to fill out in duplicate and, some weeks later, you should receive a plastic-coated permit with your photo laminated in.

Foreign embassies and consulates in Morocco

Foreign embassies and consulates in Morocco are detailed in the “Directory” sections for Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Marrakesh and Agadir. Foreign representation in Morocco is detailed on the Moroccan Foreign Ministry’s website at w diplomatie.ma (in “Corps diplomatique et consulaire au Maroc” under “Les Ambassades”).

Ireland has honorary consuls in Casablanca and Agadir, but no embassy (the nearest is in Lisbon, t 00 351 1 396 9440). New Zealanders are covered by their embassy in Madrid ( t 00 34 915 230 226), but can use UK consular facilities in Morocco. Australians are covered by their embassy in Paris ( t 00 33 1 4059 3300), but can use Canadian consular facilities in Morocco.

Moroccan embassies and consulates abroad

A complete up-to-date list of Moroccan diplomatic missions around the world can be found on the Moroccan Foreign Ministry’s website at w diplomatie.ma (in “Missions diplomatiques et consulaires du Maroc” under “Les Ambassades”).

Algeria 12 Rue Branly, al-Mouradia, 12070 Algiers ( t 021 697094, e [email protected]); 26 Av Cheikh Larbi Tebessi, 31000 Oran ( t 041 411627, e [email protected]); 5 Av De l’ANP, Sidi Bel Abbes ( t 048/543470, e [email protected]).

Australia 17 Terrigal Crescent, O’Malley, Canberra, ACT 2606 ( t 02 6290 0755, e [email protected]).

Canada 38 Range Rd, Suite 1510, Ottawa, ON K1N 8J4 ( t 1 613 236 7391, e [email protected]); 2192, Bd Lévesque Ouest, Montreal, PQ H3H 1R6 ( t 1 514 288 8750, w www.consulatdumaroc.ca ).

Ireland (Chargé d’Affaires) 39 Raglan Rd, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 ( t 01 660 9449, e [email protected]).

Mauritania Av Général de Gaulle, Tevragh Zeina 634, BP621, Nouakchott ( t 525 1411, e [email protected]); Av Maritime, Nouadhibou BP233 ( t 574 5084, e [email protected]); formalities for entering Morocco (by car, for example) can only be completed in Nouakchott, not Nouadhibou.

Spain c/Serrano 179, 28002 Madrid ( t 915 631 090, w embajada-marruecos.es ); c/Teniente Maroto 2, first floor, 11201 Algeciras ( t 956 661 803, e [email protected]); Palmera Bldg, Suite 178, 3rd floor, Av del Mediterraneo (corner Sierra Alhamilla), 04007 Almería ( t 95 020 6179, e [email protected]); also in Seville, Barcelona, Tarragona, Valencia, Bilbao, Burgos and Las Palmas.

South Africa 799 Schoemaan St (corner Farenden), Arcadia, Pretoria 001 ( t 012 343 0230, e [email protected]).

UK Diamond House, 97–99 Praed St, London W2 1NT ( t 020 7724 0719, w www.moroccanembassylondon.org.uk ).

US 1601 21st St NW, Washington DC 20009 ( t 1 202 462 7979, e [email protected]); 10 E 40th St, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10016 ( t 1 212 758 2625, w moroccanconsulate.com ).

As a result of sexual segregation, male homosexuality is relatively common in Morocco, although attitudes towards it are a little confused. Few Moroccans will declare themselves gay – which has connotations of femininity and weakness; the idea of being a passive partner is virtually taboo, while a dominant partner may well not consider himself to be indulging in a homosexual act. Private realities, however, are rather different from public show (on which subject, note that Moroccan men of all ages often walk hand in hand in public – a habit that has nothing to do with homosexuality and is simply a sign of friendship).

Gay sex between men is illegal under Moroccan law. Article 489 of the Moroccan penal code prohibits any “shameless or unnatural act” with a person of the same sex and allows for imprisonment of six months to three years, plus a fine. There are also various provisions in the penal code for more serious offences, with correspondingly higher penalties in cases involving, for example, corruption of minors (under-18s). Despite this, a gay rights association called Kif-Kif has now been formed, and there’s even a gay magazine, ( w mithly.net , in Arabic only).

A certain amount of information on the male gay scene in Morocco (gay bars, meeting places and cruising spots) can be found in the annual Spartacus Gay Guide ( spartacus.gayguide.travel ). Tangier’s days as a gay resort are long gone but a tourist-oriented gay scene does seem to be emerging, very discreetly, in Marrakesh, and to a lesser extent Agadir, though pressure from religious fundamentalists makes it difficult for the authorities to ease up, even if they wanted to, and arrests of tourists for having gay sex are not unknown.

There is no public perception of lesbianism in Morocco, and as a Western visitor, your chances of making contact with any Moroccan lesbians are very small indeed. Moroccan women are under extreme pressure to marry and bear children, and anyone resisting such pressure is likely to have a very hard time of it.

For minor health complaints, a visit to a pharmacy is likely to be sufficient. Moroccan pharmacists are well trained and dispense a wide range of drugs, including many available only on prescription in the West. If pharmacists feel you need a full diagnosis, they can recommend a doctor – sometimes working on the premises. Addresses of English- and French-speaking doctors can also be obtained from consulates and large hotels.

If you need hospital treatment , contact your consulate at once and follow its advice. If you are near a major city, reasonable treatment may be available locally. State hospitals are usually OK for minor injuries, but for anything serious, a private clinic is generally preferable. Depending on your condition, repatriation may be the best course of action.

The latest advice on health in Morocco can be found on the US government’s travel health website at w cdc.gov/travel.

Inoculations

No inoculations are required but you should always be up to date with polio and tetanus. Those intending to stay a long time in the country, especially if working with animals or in the healthcare field, are also advised to consider vaccinations against typhoid, TB, hepatitis A and B, diphtheria and rabies, though these are not worth your while if just going on holiday.

A very low level of malaria does exist in the form of occasional cases between May and October in the region to the north of Beni Mellal and Khenifra, between Chefchaouen and Larache, and in the province of Taza, but local strains are not life-threatening and malaria pills are not normally considered necessary unless you actually fall ill with it (in which case they are easy enough to get at any pharmacy). More importantly, avoid bites; use mosquito repellent on all exposed areas of skin, especially feet, and particularly around dusk. Repellents containing DEET are usually recommended for adults.

Water and health hazards

Tap water in most of Morocco is generally safe to drink, though in the far south and Western Sahara it’s best to stick to bottled mineral water.

A more serious problem in the south is that many of the river valleys and oases are infected with bilharzia , also known as schistosomiasis , caused by a tiny fluke worm that lives part of its life cycle in a freshwater snail, and the other part in the blood and internal organs of a human or other mammal which bathes in or drinks the water. The snails only live in stagnant water, but the flukes may be swept downstream. Staying clear of slow-flowing rivers and oasis water is the best way to avoid it. If infected while bathing, you’ll probably get a slightly itchy rash an hour or two later where the flukes have entered the skin. Later symptoms may take several months to appear, and are typified by abdominal pains, and blood in faeces or even urine. If you suspect that you might have it, seek medical help. Bilharzia is easily cured, but can cause permanent intestinal damage if untreated. Care should be taken, too, in drinking water from mountain streams . In areas where there is livestock upstream giardiasis may be prevalent and is a common cause of travellers’ diarrhoea. Other symptoms include nausea, weight loss and fatigue which usually last no more than two weeks and settle without treatment. If they continue for longer, then a course of metronidazole (Flagyl) generally leads to effective eradication, but always finish the course, even after symptoms have gone, and even though this antibiotic will probably make you feel nauseous and precludes consumption of alcohol. Using iodine water purification tablets, or boiling any drinking or cooking water (remember that you’ll have to boil it for longer at high altitudes, where the boiling point is lower) is the simplest way to avoid putting yourself at risk from either of these illnesses.

At some stage in your Moroccan travels, it is likely that you will get diarrhoea . As a first stage of treatment it’s best simply to adapt your diet. Plain boiled rice is your safest bet, while yoghurt is an effective stomach settler and prickly pears (widely available in summer) are good too, as are bananas, but other fruit is best avoided, along with greasy food, dairy products (except yoghurt), caffeine and alcohol. If you have diarrhoea, it’s important to replace the body fluids and salts lost through dehydration (this is especially the case with children); dissolving oral rehydration salts ( sels de réhydratation orale in French) in water will help. These are available at any pharmacy, but if you can’t get any, a teaspoon of salt plus eight of sugar per litre of water makes a reasonable substitute. Water (at least two litres per adult daily) should be drunk constantly throughout the day, rather than all in one go.

If symptoms persist for several days – especially if you get painful cramps, or if blood or mucus appear in your stools – you could have something more serious (see Water and health hazards) and should seek medical advice.

Other hazards

There are few natural hazards in northern Morocco, where wildlife is not very different from that of Mediterranean Europe. If you venture into the Sahara, however, be aware of the very real dangers of a bite from a snake or scorpion . Several of the Saharan snakes are deadly. Bites should be treated as medical emergencies.

Certain scorpions are very dangerous; their sting can be fatal if not treated. Avoid going barefoot or in flip-flops (thongs) in the bush, or turning over stones. In the desert, shake out your shoes before putting them on in the morning. All scorpions sting, which can be extremely painful, especially if you are allergic, but not many are life-threatening. Most snakes are non-venomous and, again, few are life-threatening, but one or two species can be dangerous, most notably the horned viper.

If you do get bitten by a snake or stung by a scorpion, don’t panic – even in the case of life-threatening species, actual fatalities are rare, and you should be in no danger if treated in a reasonable time. Sucking out the poison only works in movies, and tourniquets are dangerous and ill-advised. The important thing is to relax, try not to move the affected part of your body, and seek medical help as quickly as possible. Try to remember what the creature looked like, and if it’s possible to kill or catch it without danger, then do so, so that you can show it to doctors or paramedics.

Never underestimate Morocco’s heat , especially in the south. A hat – preferably light in both weight and colour – is an essential precaution and, especially if you have very fair skin, you should also take sunblock cream with a very high screening factor, as the sun really is higher (and therefore stronger) in Morocco than in northern latitudes. Resulting problems include dehydration – make sure that you’re drinking enough (irregular urination such as only once a day is a danger sign) – and heatstroke , which is potentially fatal. Signs of heatstroke are a very high body temperature without a feeling of fever, but accompanied by headaches, nausea and/or disorientation. Lowering body temperature, with a tepid shower or bath, for example, is the first step in treatment, after which medical help should be sought.

Contraceptives and tampons

Poor quality and rather unreliable condoms ( préservatifs ) can be bought in most pharmacies, and so can the pill (officially by prescription, but this isn’t essential).

Tampons can be bought at general stores, not pharmacies, in most Moroccan cities. Don’t expect to find them in country or mountain areas.

It’s frankly reckless to travel without insurance cover. Home insurance policies occasionally cover your possessions when overseas, and some private medical schemes include cover when abroad. Bank and credit cards often have certain levels of medical or other insurance included and you may automatically get travel insurance if you use a major credit card to pay for your trip. Otherwise, you should contact a specialist travel insurance company. A typical travel insurance policy usually provides cover for the loss of baggage, tickets and – up to a certain limit – cash or cheques, as well as cancellation or curtailment of your journey. Most of them exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid: in Morocco this could include mountaineering, skiing, water rafting or paragliding. Read the small print and benefits tables of prospective policies carefully; coverage can vary wildly for roughly similar premiums. Many policies can be chopped and changed to exclude coverage you don’t need. For medical coverage, check whether benefits will be paid as treatment proceeds or only after returning home, and whether there is a 24-hour medical emergency number. When securing baggage cover, make sure that the per-article limit – typically under £500/$1000 – will cover your most valuable possession. If you need to make a claim, you should keep receipts for medicines and medical treatment, and in the event you have anything stolen, you must obtain an official statement from the police (called a papier de déclaration ).

Cybercafés ( cybers , pronounced “sea-bear”, with a little French gargle at the end) are widespread, and usually charge around 5dh per hour, though some places charge double that, and hotels with internet services often charge even more; conversely, some places in small towns in the south charge as little as 3dh per hour. Note that Moroccan cybercafés are rife with malware, so think twice before sticking your USB stick into one of their machines, and always scan it with a good anti-virus and anti-malware program afterwards.

For unlimited Wi-Fi on the go whilst travelling Morocco, buy a Skyroam Solis , which works in 130+ countries at one flat daily rate, paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. You can connect up to five devices at once. Prices start from as little as €5 a day.

In the larger towns, laundries will take in clothes and wash them overnight, but you’ll usually find it easier to ask at hotels – even in cheap hotels without an official laundry service, the cleaning lady will almost certainly be glad to make a few extra dirhams by taking in a bit of washing.

You can deposit baggage at most train stations, but it will have to be locked or padlocked (unlockable rucksacks will not be accepted); if you are catching a late train, make sure that the office will be open on your return. There are similar facilities at the main bus stations, CTM offices and ferry stations. Where no left- luggage facilities are available, café proprietors may agree to look after baggage for you, sometimes for a small fee, more often for free in out-of-the-way places.

Your best chance of paid work in Morocco is teaching English . The schools listed here will require reasonable spoken French and an EFL qualification, and usually do their recruiting at home, but they sometimes advertise jobs online, and they may be able to direct you to smaller schools in Casablanca, Rabat and other Moroccan towns.

It is also possible to volunteer for a work camp . Most are open to anyone over eighteen. You pay travel costs but generally receive free accommodation (take a sleeping bag) and meals.

Letters between Morocco and Western Europe generally take around a week to ten days, around two weeks for North America or Australasia. There are postboxes at every post office ( La Poste ) and on the wayside; they seem to get emptied fairly efficiently, even in out-of-the-way places.

Stamps can sometimes be bought alongside postcards, or from some tabacs as well as at the post office, where there is often a dedicated counter (labelled timbres ), and where stamps may also be sold in the phone section, if there is one. At major post offices, there is a separate window for parcels , where the officials will want to examine the goods you are sending. Always take them unwrapped; there is usually someone to supply wrapping paper, string and tape.

Post office hours are typically Monday to Friday 8am–4.15pm; larger offices may stay open until 6pm, and may also open Saturday 8am–noon, for stamps, money changing and money transfer, but not for parcels or poste restante. During Ramadan, offices open Monday to Friday 9am–3pm, larger ones also Saturday 9am to noon.

Poste restante

Receiving letters poste restante (general delivery) can be a bit of a lottery, as Moroccan post office workers don’t always file letters under the name you might expect. Ask for all your initials to be checked (including M for Mr or Ms, etc) and, if you’re half-expecting anything, suggest other letters as well. To pick up your mail you need your passport. To have mail sent to you, it should be addressed (preferably with your surname underlined) to Poste Restante at the central post office of any major city.

The maps of Moroccan towns in this book should be sufficient for most needs, though commercial plans of greater Rabat or Casablanca may be useful if you need to visit the suburbs, and detailed maps of the Medinas in Marrakesh and Fez may help to navigate tortuous Medina alleyways.

Reasonable road maps are sometimes available at ONMT tourist offices, and these are adequate if you are not driving or going far off the beaten track. The best is the Rough Guide Map, on a scale of 1:1,000,000 (1cm to 1km). Among the alternatives, a good choice is GeoCenter or IGN’s 1:800,000 map, with the Western Sahara on a 1:2,500,000 inset. Also good are the Bay-Foldex Morocco map, on a scale of 1:800,000, with the Western Sahara on a 1:5,000,000 inset, and Michelin’s Morocco map (#959), on a scale of 1:1,000,000. Maps (or guidebooks) which do not show the Western Sahara as part of Morocco are banned and liable to confiscation.

Trekking maps and guides

Topographical maps used by trekkers, climbers, skiers, etc (1:50,000 and 1:100,000) are difficult to find in Morocco. You may have to go in person to the Division de la Cartographie, Avenue Hassan II, Km4, Rabat t 0660 102715 (near the gare routière bus station, ask for Résidence Oum Kaltoum ); for some maps, you have to show your passport and submit an order which may then be available for collection two working days later – if the request is approved, which is far from certain, although maps of Toubkal and some others will be served over the counter. Trekking maps are also sporadically available at the Hôtel Ali , Marrakesh, or in Imlil, the trailhead for treks in the area. However, if you are planning to go trekking, it is best to try and get maps through a specialist map outlet before you leave home. Look for 1:100,000 (and if you’re lucky 1:50,000) maps of the Atlas and other mountain areas. Stanfords in London (online orders worldwide at w stanfords.co.uk) has several trekking maps covering the High Atlas and in particular the Jebel Toubkal area.

AMIS produces brief map-guides to the Asni-Toubkal, Western High Atlas (Taroudant) and Sirwa (Taliouine), Anti-Atlas (Tafraoute), Aklim (Igherm) and Jebel Bou Iblane/Bou Naceur (Middle Atlas) areas, which are useful complements to the coverage in this guide. AMIS offer mail order worldwide, and are definitely the best place to try for Moroccan maps that are unobtainable elsewhere.

More detailed trekking guidebooks are also available in both English and French. The most useful are Hamish Brown’s The High Atlas: Treks and Climbs on Morocco’s Biggest and Best Mountains (Cicerone Press, 2012), and – though now dated – Robin Collomb’s Atlas Mountains (West Col, 1980), Michael Peyron’s Grand Atlas Traverse (2 vols, West Col, 1990), Karl Smith’s Atlas Mountains: A Walker’s Guide (Cicerone Press, 1998), and Richard Knight’s Trekking in the Moroccan Atlas (Trailblazer Publications, 2000). Also useful if you can find it is West Col’s map guide to the Mgoun Massif at 1:100,000, which covers a wide region, second only to Toubkal in popularity. For climbing, a modern reproduction of the 1942 Dresch–Lépiney Le Massif du Toubkal , available at some bookshops, is useful. These can sometimes be found in Marrakesh’s Librairie Chatr.

Though the easiest way to carry your money is in the form of plastic, it is a good idea to also carry at least a couple of days’ survival money in cash, and maybe some travellers’ cheques as an emergency backup.

Morocco’s basic unit of currency is the dirham (dh). The dirham is not quoted on international money markets, a rate being set instead by the Moroccan government. The present rates are approximately 14dh to £1, 8.80dh to US$1, 11dh to €1. As with all currencies there are fluctuations, but the dirham has roughly held its own against Western currencies over the last few years. A dirham is divided into 100 centimes , and you may find prices written or expressed in centimes rather than dirhams. Confusingly, centimes may also be referred to as francs or, in former Spanish zones of the country, as pesetas . You may also hear prices quoted in rials , or reales . In most parts of the country a dirham is considered to be twenty rials, though in Tangier and the Rif there are just two rials to the dirham. Coins of 10, 20 and 50 centimes, and 1, 5 and 10 dirhams are in circulation, along with notes of 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirhams.

In Algeciras, you can buy dirhams at poor rates from travel agents opposite the port entrance, and at slightly better rates from those inside the ferry terminal. You can also buy dirhams at similar rates from agents near the ferry terminals in Ceuta and Melilla. In Gibraltar, moneychangers will usually give you a very slightly better rate than in Morocco itself. When you’re nearing the end of your stay, it’s best to get down to as little Moroccan money as possible. You can change back dirhams at the airport on departure (you can’t use them in duty-free shops), but you may be asked to produce bank exchange receipts – and you can change back only fifty percent of sums detailed on these. You’ll probably be offered re-exchange into euros only. You can also change dirhams (at bad rates) into euros in Ceuta, Melilla and Algeciras, and into sterling in Gibraltar. It is illegal to import or export more than 1000dh.

Banks and exchange

English pounds and US and Canadian dollars can all be changed at banks, large hotels and some travel agents and tourist shops, but by far the most widely accepted foreign currency is the euro , which many people will accept in lieu of dirhams, at time of writing for the (bad) rate of €1 to 10dh. Gibraltarian banknotes are accepted for exchange at a very slightly lower rate than English ones, but Scottish and Northern Irish notes are not negotiable in Morocco, and nor are Australian and New Zealand dollars, South African rand, Algerian dinars or Mauritanian ouguiya, though you should be able to change CFAs. Moroccan bank clerks may balk at changing banknotes with numbers scrawled on them by their counterparts abroad, so change any such notes for clean ones before leaving home.

BMCE tends to be the best bank for money changing. Usually at banks, you fill in forms at one desk, then join a second queue for the cashier, and you’ll usually need to show your passport as proof of identity. Standard banking hours for most of the year are Monday to Friday 8.15am to 3.45pm. During Ramadan, banks typically open 9.30am to 2pm. BMCE and Attijariwafa Bank sometimes have a separate bureau de change open longer hours and at weekends, and there are now private foreign exchange bureaux in most major cities and tourist destinations, which open longer hours, often on Sundays too, change money with no fuss or bureaucracy, and don’t usually charge commission. Many post offices will also change cash, and large hotels may change money out of banking hours, though their rates may not be good.

There is a small currency black market but you are recommended not to use it: changing money on the street is illegal and subject to all the usual scams, and the rate is not particularly preferential.

Credit and debit cards

Credit and debit cards on the Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Plus networks can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs at many banks, but not the ones outside post offices. Otherwise, banks may advance cash against Visa or Mastercard. By using ATMs, you get trade exchange rates, which are better than those charged by banks for changing cash, but your card issuer may add a transaction fee, sometimes hefty. There is a daily limit on ATM cash withdrawals, usually 3000dh.

You can pay directly with plastic (usually with Mastercard, Visa or American Express, though the latter cannot be used in ATMs) in upmarket hotels, restaurants and tourist shops.

Travellers’ cheques and prepaid cards

Travellers’ cheques are as secure as plastic but nothing like as convenient. Some banks won’t change them, and staff often find spurious reasons not to do so: they may demand to see the original receipt for the cheques, though of course you are not supposed to carry that and the cheques together (if you do show it, don’t let the bank keep it). Travellers’ cheques have now generally been superseded by prepaid cards , such as those issued by Visa, which you can load up with credit before you leave home and use in ATMs like a debit card.

American Express and wiring money

American Express is represented by S’Tours at 2 Av Hassan Souktani, 4th floor, apt 10, Casablanca ( t 0522 203552), and at Residence Nadia, 22 Rue Moulay Ali Cherif, Guéliz, Marrakesh ( t 0524 437469), but these are only agents: they can issue Amex travellers’ cheques, but they cannot receive mail or wired money, nor cash personal cheques.

For wiring money, Western Union is represented at every post office. MoneyGram’s local agents include branches of Crédit du Maroc and Banque Centrale Populaire.

Opening hours follow a reasonably consistent pattern: banks (Mon–Fri 8.15am–3.45pm); museums (daily except Tues 9am–noon & 3–6pm); offices (Mon–Thurs 8.30am–noon & 2.30–6.30pm; Fri 8.30–11.30am & 3–6.30pm); Ville Nouvelle shops (Mon–Sat 8.30am–noon & 2–6.30pm); Medina shops (Sat–Thurs 9am–6pm, Fri 9am–1pm). These hours will vary during Ramadan, when banks, for example, open 9.30am to 2pm, and everything will close before nightfall, when those observing the fast – which is to say, nearly everybody – have to stop and eat.

The easiest way to call within Morocco or abroad is to use a public phone booth ( cabine ), which takes a phonecard ( télécarte ) issued by Maroc Télécom. The cards are available from some newsagents and tabacs , and from post offices, and come in denominations of 10dh, 20dh, 50dh and 100dh. Cardphones are widespread, and you can usually find a number of them by a town’s main post office if nowhere else. Unfortunately, they are not very well maintained, and often don’t work. Not infrequently, they dock a unit from your card and fail to connect you, but they are still the best and most convenient way to make calls.

An alternative is to use a téléboutique , common everywhere. Some use coins – 5dh and 10dh coins are best for foreign calls (you’ll probably need at least 20dh) – others give you a card and charge you for the units used. International calls from a hotel are pricey and may be charged in three-minute increments, so that if you go one second over, you’re charged for the next period.

Morocco now has about ninety percent mobile coverage. Calls are expensive if using your own SIM card from home, and you pay to receive as well as make them; in addition, you can’t top up in Morocco, so bring enough credit with you. Depending on how long you are spending in Morocco, it may be worth signing up with Maroc Télécom or Meditel, using their SIM card and getting a Moroccan number.

Instead of a dialling tone, Moroccan phones have a voice telling you in French and Arabic to dial the number. When calling a Moroccan number, the ringing tone consists of one-and-a-half-second bursts of tone, separated by a three-and-a-half-second silence. The engaged tone is a series of short tones (pip-pip-pip-pip), as in most other parts of the world. A short series of very rapid pips may also indicate that your call is being connected.

Phone numbers

Maroc Télécom seem to change all their numbers every couple of years. Moroccan numbers are now ten-digit, and all ten digits must be dialled, even locally. All mobile numbers now begin with 06, all ordinary landline numbers with 05. If the number you have doesn’t start with either of these, you’ll need to convert it (see International dialling codes).

The Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla have nine-digit numbers, incorporating the former area codes (956 for Ceuta, 952 for Melilla), and all nine digits must be dialled, even locally. To call from mainland Spain, you will only need to dial the nine-digit number. Calling Ceuta or Melilla from abroad, or from Morocco proper, dial the international access code (00 from Morocco), then 34, then the whole nine-digit number. To call Morocco from Ceuta or Melilla, dial 00 212, then the last nine digits of the number, omitting the initial zero.

International calls

To call Morocco from abroad , you dial the international access code (00 from Britain, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands and New Zealand; 0011 from Australia; 011 from the US and most of Canada), then the country code (212), then the last nine digits of the number, omitting the initial zero. To call Ceuta or Melilla , dial the international access code, then 34, then all nine digits of the number, beginning with 956 for Ceuta, 952 for Melilla.

For an international call from Morocco, Ceuta or Melilla, dial 00, followed by the country code (1 for North America, 44 for the UK, etc), the area code (omitting the initial zero which prefixes area codes in most countries outside North America) and the subscriber number.

To reverse call charges, a good policy is to phone someone briefly and get them to ring you back, as collect (reverse charge) calls are hard to arrange.

Photography needs to be undertaken with care. If you are obviously taking a photograph of someone, ask their permission – especially in the more remote, rural regions where you can cause genuine offence. In Marrakesh’s Jemaa el Fna, taking even quite general shots of the scene may cause somebody in the shot to demand money from you, sometimes quite aggressively. Also note that it is illegal to take photographs of anything considered strategic, such as an airport or a police station, so be careful where you point your camera – if in doubt, ask. On a more positive front, taking a photograph of someone you’ve struck up a friendship with and sending it on to them, or exchanging photographs, is often greatly appreciated.

Morocco is on Greenwich Mean Time, with daylight saving (GMT+1) from the beginning of June to the end of September. Ceuta and Melilla keep Spanish time, which is GMT+1 in winter and GMT+2 in summer. The difference should be borne in mind if you’re coming from Morocco to catch ferries out of Ceuta or Melilla, or trains out of Algeciras, especially when Spain is on summer time but Morocco isn’t, as there’s then a two-hour time difference.

Morocco’s national tourist board, the Office National Marocain de Tourisme (ONMT; w visitmorocco.com ) maintains general information offices in several Western capitals, where you can pick up pamphlets on the main Moroccan cities and resorts, and a few items on cultural themes.

In Morocco itself, you’ll find an ONMT office ( délégation de tourisme ) or a locally run office called a Syndicat d’Initiative bureau in all towns of any size or interest – often both (addresses detailed in the guide). They can of course answer queries, though the délégation ’s main function is promoting tourism and gathering statistics. Both offices should also be able to put you in touch with an officially recognized guide.

In addition, there is quite a bit of information available online, and plenty of books on Morocco. The Maghreb Society, based in the UK at the Maghreb Bookshop, 45 Burton St, London WC1H 9AL ( t 020 7388 1840, w maghrebreview.com ), publishes the Maghreb Review , the most important English-language journal on the Maghrebian countries.

Facilities for people with disabilities are little developed in Morocco, and, although families are usually very supportive, many disabled Moroccans are reduced to begging. Despite this, able-bodied Moroccans are, in general, far more used to mixing with disabled people than their Western counterparts, and are much more likely to offer help without embarrassment if you need it.

Blindness is more common than in the West, and sighted Moroccans are generally used to helping blind and visually impaired people find their way around and get on and off public transport at the right stop.

There is little in the way of wheelchair access to most premises. In the street, the Ville Nouvelle districts are generally easier to negotiate than the often crowded Medinas, but don’t expect kerb ramps at road crossings or other such concessions to wheelchair users. Medina areas in cities like Rabat and even Marrakesh should not be too hard to negotiate at quiet times of day, but in Fez and Tangier, where the streets are steep and interspersed with steps, you would need at least one helper and a well-planned route to get around.

Bus and train travel will be difficult because of the steps that have to be negotiated, but grands taxis are a more feasible mode of transport if you can stake a claim on the front seat (maybe paying for two places to get the whole of it) – if you don’t have a helper travelling with you, and you require assistance, the driver or other passengers will almost certainly be happy to help you get in and out.

Accommodation at the lower end of the market is unlikely to be very accessible. Cheap city hotels tend to have small doorways and steep, narrow staircases, and often no elevator, though many will have ground-floor rooms. Beach hotels are more able to cater for visitors with mobility difficulties. Some package hotels, especially in Agadir, make an attempt to cater for wheelchair-users, with ramps, for example, but no accessible toilets. It is at the very top end of the market, however, that real changes are being made: new five-star hotels usually have a couple of rooms specifically adapted for wheelchairs. Obviously these need to be booked well in advance, and this also confines you to very expensive places, but it is at least a start.

You’ll probably find a package tour much easier than fully independent travel, but contact any tour operator to check they can meet your exact needs before making a booking. It’s also important to ensure you are covered by any insurance policy you take out.

Hotels with rooms specially adapted for wheelchair users include the Mövenpick in Tangier, the Tryp in Melilla the Palais Jamaï in Fez, the Sofitel in Rabat, the Sheraton and Hyatt Regency in Casablanca, the Médina in Essaouira, and the Atlas Medina and Ryad Mogador Menara among other Hivernage hotels in Marrakesh. The Ibis Moussafir chain ( w ibishotel.com ) has adapted rooms at several of its hotels, including those in Tangier, Fnideq, Meknes, Casablanca, El Jadida, Essaouira and Ouarzazate. Auberge Camping Toubkal in Talioune also has rooms adapted for wheelchair users. Other hotels, such as the Agadir Beach Club and Royal Atlas in Agadir, claim to be accessible, and to cater for wheelchair users, but do not have specially adapted rooms. Obviously, you should always call ahead to check whether any particular hotel can meet your specific needs.

British dailies and the International Herald Tribune are available at some newsstands in city centres and tourist resorts.

Newspapers and magazines

The Moroccan press has a range of papers in French and Arabic, but news coverage, especially of international news, is weak. Of the French-language papers, the most accessible is the pro-government daily, Le Matin . Others include L’Opinion (Istiqlal party), Maroc Soir (pro-government evening daily), L’Economiste , (independent), and Al Bayane (communist).

Periodicals include Maroc-Hebdo , La Vie Eco , and the Time/Newsweek-style news magazine Tel-Quel . There’s also an independent online English-language news magazine, Morocco Newsline . The most widely read Arabic daily newspapers are Assabah, the sister paper to L’Economiste, and the more sensationalist Al Ahdath Al Maghribia, which is independent but left-leaning.

In addition to these, Morocco has a number of football magazines, women’s magazines and other publications in French, as well as the excellent Francophone African news magazine, Jeune Afrique .

The BBC have cut World Service short-wave broadcasts to North Africa, but with a deft twiddle of the dial you may be able to pick up short-wave broadcasts for West Africa, or MW broadcasts to Europe; programme listings can be found online at BBC World service . You can also pick up Voice of America, currently in the afternoon, on 11840 or 13570 KHz and in the evening on 7470 or 9490 KHz, but these sometimes change.

Most of the pricier hotels receive satellite TV – CNN, the French TV5, and occasionally UK Sky channels. In the north of the country you can also get Spanish TV stations and, in Tangier, English-language Gibraltar TV. The independent Qatari news channel Al Jazeera is a major source of news for people in Morocco (many cafés show it), and you may even be able to get it in English if you have access to cable or satellite, but it is unfortunately not obtainable on terrestrial TV.

Morocco’s own two TV channels broadcast in Arabic, but include some French programmes – plus news bulletins in Arabic, French, Spanish and, more recently, Berber.

Armed with this book, you shouldn’t need a guide, but some people like to hire one to negotiate the Medinas of larger cities. Official guides, identified by a large, brass “sheriff’s badge”, can be engaged through tourist offices or large hotels. They charge around 150–200dh for half a day, twice that for a full day, plus sustenance. The rate is for the guide’s time, and can be shared by a group (though you‘d then be expected to give a good tip).

Young Moroccans may also offer their services as unofficial guides, which is illegal, and subject to occasional police clampdowns. Be very careful in making use of unofficial guides. Some are indeed genuine, usually unemployed youths hoping to make a few dirhams by showing tourists around, and they should be cheaper than official guides, less formal, offer a more street-level view, and perhaps show you things that official guides would not – indeed, many tourists end up making lasting friendships with people who‘ve approached them as unofficial guides – but some will be aiming only to get you into shops or hotels which pay them commission, or they may be confidence tricksters. If you do decide to hire an unofficial guide, be sure to fix the rate in advance (make it clear that you know the official rates), as well as the itinerary (so that it does not include shops, for example – this also applies to official guides).

In general, never agree to a guide showing you to a hotel, and never go shopping with a guide, official or otherwise, as they will only take you to places which pay them a commission, meaning a higher bill for you – often as much as fifty percent higher. Hotels that pay commission to guides for bringing tourists to them are also likely to be dubious in other ways. On the other hand, letting someone guide you to a café or restaurant won’t increase the price of a meal (although waiters will generally make a small tip to the guide).

Conmen and scams

Hustlers and conmen have been largely cleaned off the streets, and those who remain are less persistent, but tourists are the obvious target for them. However, it’s important not to treat every Moroccan who approaches you as a hustler – many (though not usually in tourist hot spots) are just trying to be friendly. However, forewarned is forearmed, so a few notes on the most common scams follow:

• Most hustlers (and guides, official or not) hope to earn money by steering you, sometimes with the most amazing deviousness, into shops that will pay them a commission, most commonly carpet shops where you will be subjected to hours of hard-sell. Never be afraid to walk away from such as situation, even if (as is quite likely) you are then subjected to abuse, and never buy anything from a shop that you are taken to by a guide or hustler.
• If a hustler guides you into the Medina till you have no idea where you are, and then demands a large fee to take you back out, don’t be afraid to appeal to people in the street, and if you feel genuinely menaced or harassed, threaten to go to the police: hustlers tend to vanish fast at the prospect of police involvement.
• Hustlers may attach themselves to you using the excuse of a letter (“Could you help translate or write one?”), or by pretending to be someone you have met but forgotten – so if someone you don’t remember says, “Hey, remember me?” it’s probably a hustler trying to practise some scam on you. Another trick is to tell you that a site that you are on your way to visit is closed and that they can show you something else instead, or they may tell you that there is a Berber market taking place and this is the only day of the week to see it. If you ignore these people or turn them down, they may accuse you of being paranoid, angry or racist – and such an accusation is a sure sign that you were right.
• Con merchants, working alone or in couples, may befriend tourists, and then, after a day or two, tell some sad tale about needing money to get a passport or for a sick relative, or some such.
• On trains, especially at Tangier, hustlers sometimes pose as porters or railway staff, demanding an extortionate fee for carrying baggage or payment of supplements. Genuine rail staff wear beige overalls and have ID cards, which, if suspicious, you should ask to see.
• Drivers should beware of hitchhiking hustlers, who spend all day hitching between a pair of towns and can get highly obnoxious in their demands for money when you approach one or other destination. Alternatively, they may wish to thank you for the lift by taking you home for a cup of tea – except that “home” turns out to be a carpet shop, where you are then subjected to hours of hard-sell. A variation on this is the fake breakdown, where people on the road flag down passing tourists and ask them to take a note to a “mechanic”, who turns out to be a carpet salesman. This one is particularly common on the N9 between Marrakesh, Ouarzazate and Zagora, and the N10 between Ouarzazate and Tinerhir.

Dealing with children

In the countryside especially, children may demand a dirham, un cadeau (present) or un stylo (a pen/pencil). Working out your own strategy is all part of the game, but be sure to keep good humour: smile and laugh, or kids can make a serious nuisance of themselves. Faced with begging from children, we recommend not obliging, as this ties them to a begging mentality, and encourages them to harass other visitors.

Travelling with small children, you may well find that people will frequently come up to admire them, to compliment you on them and to caress them, which may be uncomfortable for shyer offspring. In Moroccan families, children stay up late until they fall asleep and are spoiled rotten by older family members. The streets are pretty safe and even quite small children walk to school unaccompanied or play in the street unsupervised.

As a parent, however, you will encounter one or two difficulties. For example, you won’t find baby changing rooms in airports, hotels or restaurants, and will have to be discreet if breastfeeding – find a quiet corner and shield infant and breast from view with a light cloth over your shoulder. Beach resort and package tour hotels may have facilities such as playgrounds, children’s pools and a babysitting service, but mid-range city hotels are far less likely to cater for children, though many allow children to share their parents’ room for free.

You may want to try a holiday with Club Med , whose purpose-built holiday resorts at Agadir and Marrakesh feature kids’ club, entertainment and sports facilities on site. Attractions that should appeal to small people include Magic Park in Salé, Oasiria in Marrakesh, and the tourist train in Agadir.

Disposable nappies (diapers) are available at larger supermarkets, and sometimes city pharmacies, at prices similar to what you pay at home, but off the beaten track, you may need to stock up, or take washables. You may also want to take along some dried baby food; any café can supply hot water.

On buses and grands taxis, children small enough to share your seat will usually travel free, but older kids pay the full adult fare. On trains, travel is free for under-fours, and half price for four- to eleven-year-olds.

Among hazards that you’ll need to bear in mind are traffic and stray animals. Dogs can be fierce in Morocco, and can also carry rabies, and there are a lot of feral cats and dogs about. Children (especially young ones) are also more susceptible than adults to heatstroke and dehydration, and should always wear a sunhat, and have high-factor sunscreen applied to exposed skin. If swimming at a beach resort, they should do so in a T-shirt, certainly for the first few days. The other thing that children are very susceptible to is an upset tummy. Bear in mind that antidiarrhoeal drugs should generally not be given to young children; read the literature provided with the medication or consult a doctor for guidance on child dosages. For more tips, see The Rough Guide to Travel with Babies & Young Children.

The Rough Guides to Morocco and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Morocco

Find even more inspiration here.

Ready to travel and discover Morocco?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting Around Morocco

Places to Visit

Guide to Moroccan Riads

Things to Do in Morocco

Things to Do in Marrakesh

Guide to the Marrakesh Medina

Best Beaches

Annual Events

Things to Do in Fez

Things to Do in Meknes

Visiting Chefchaouen

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Your Trip to Morocco: The Complete Guide

Occupying the northwest shoulder of the African continent, Morocco is rich with history and full of color. For some, its essence can be found in the bustling souks and walled medinas of Imperial Cities like Marrakesh and Fez. For others, the country is typified by the plunging sand dunes, camel trains, and Bedouin villages of the Sahara Desert. There is something for every kind of traveler in Morocco. Foodies come to taste flavorful tagines cooked according to ancient recipes. For culture vultures, the mosques, museums, and palaces of cities that date back to the eighth century are the main attraction; while nature lovers will find magnificent scenery from the wild beaches of the Atlantic coast to the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains. 

Discover Morocco’s treasure trove of wonders for yourself with the help of this useful guide. From information about the local language and currency , to tips on what to do, what to eat, and where to stay, it has all the information you need to plan your trip of a lifetime. 

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : For fewer crowds and weather that’s sunny but not uncomfortably hot, plan to visit Morocco in spring (April and May) or fall (September and November). There are exceptions to this rule: Morocco’s famous surf destinations are best in winter, while beachgoers may appreciate the more intense heat of summer. Cultural and religious festivals occur throughout the year. 

Language: Morocco’s official languages are Modern Standard Arabic and Berber. The most widely spoken language is Moroccan Arabic. 

Currency: Moroccan dirham

Getting Around : Morocco has a safe and reliable train network connecting its largest cities and most popular tourist destinations. Long-distance buses are a good budget option, while domestic flights are best for those with limited time. Once you arrive at your destination, use a local taxi (known as a petit taxi) to get around town. 

Travel Tip: Morocco is a Muslim country and tourists should dress modestly to avoid causing offense. This is especially true for women, who should keep a shawl or scarf in their purse to wear over their hair when entering mosques and other religious sites. 

Things to Do 

Most overseas visitors focus their time in Morocco on the Imperial Cities of Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, and Rabat. At the heart of each of them is the medina, or walled city, where fabulous Arabic and Andalusian architecture abounds and vendors sell precious goods in maze-like souks. It’s worth getting out and exploring Morocco’s rural areas as well. From the bohemian villages of the Rif Mountains to the kasbahs of the Dades Valley, a rich and diverse culture waits to be discovered. 

Shop for souvenirs in the city souks: Bring your best haggling skills and venture forth into Morocco’s souks in search of a bargain. In the Marrakesh medina, shop for exotic spices and silver dinnerware in Souk el Attarine, or for hand-crafted Berber jewelry in Souk des Bijoutiers. In Souk Chouari and Souk Haddadine, artisan carpenters and blacksmiths have been showcasing the same techniques for hundreds of years. 

Discover a wealth of historic landmarks: Berber kings, Roman invaders, Islamic sultans, and European colonialists have all left their mark on Morocco. Visit the ruins of Volubilis , one of the Roman Empire’s southernmost cities, near Meknes. Tour the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace in Marrakesh to get a glimpse into the lives of the Saadian sultans; or walk Essaouira ’s medieval ramparts, built by Portuguese settlers as a defense against invasion. 

Explore the country’s natural wonders: Morocco is full of incredibly diverse nature areas. Trek through the Sahara Desert on a multi-day camel safari departing from Merzouga . Surf some of the best waves in Africa in the Atlantic village of Taghazout ; or hit the slopes at Oukaïmeden , one of the continent’s only natural ski resorts. 

Explore more amazing attractions with our full-length articles on the top things to see and do in Morocco , the top things to do in Fez , and the top things to do in Marrakesh . 

What to Eat and Drink 

Moroccan cuisine takes inspiration from Arabic, African, and Berber culture and is given unrivaled flavor by a wealth of locally produced spices. The most iconic dish is tagine , a kind of stew named after the cone-shaped clay pot in which it is cooked. Served everywhere from street stalls to gourmet restaurants, tagines come in many different flavors with chicken, lamb, and kefta being the most common. Often, dried fruit and nuts are added for a distinctly exotic taste. Tagine is usually accompanied by another Moroccan staple, cous cous. Other delicacies to look out for include harira soup, made from tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices; and bastilla, a savory pie inherited from the Moorish rulers of the past and traditionally filled with pigeon meat. 

Because Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, very few traditional restaurants serve alcohol. Instead, wash your meal down with a cup of ubiquitous mint tea. Freshly squeezed orange juice and strong Arabic coffee are also popular beverages in Morocco. 

Where to Stay

Choosing the best place to stay during your time in Morocco depends on your particular interests. If you want to explore historic architecture while immersing yourself in the chaotic thrill of the souks, make your temporary home in the medinas of Fez or Marrakesh. In both cities, the best boutique hotels are located within traditional Moroccan residences known as riads. If you dream of experiencing the Saharan Desert in all its glory, head to Merzouga, a frontier town on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Camel safaris often include an overnight stay in a traditional Bedouin village. For a tranquil getaway in the Rif Mountains, the blue-painted town of Chefchaouen is a favorite pick; while Asilah , Essaouira, and Taghazout are all great choices for laid-back beach living on the Atlantic coast. 

For more information on destinations and accommodation choices in Morocco, read our full-length articles on the best hotels in Marrakesh and the best beaches in Morocco , plus this complete guide to Moroccan riads . 

Getting There

For most visitors, the easiest way to get to Morocco is to fly in. There are two main international airports: the Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca and Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK). The former handles most of the country’s long-distance arrivals, while the Marrakesh Airport is a popular destination for budget European airlines. Morocco’s national airline, Royal Air Maroc, offers a daily non-stop flight from New York to Casablanca. Alternatively, ferries travel to Morocco from several countries in Europe, including Spain, France, and Italy. 

Visitors from the United States, Canada, the U.K., Europe, and many other countries do not require a visa to enter Morocco for stays of up to 90 days.   

Culture and Customs

Islam is the predominant religion in Morocco (more than 99 percent of the population are Sunni Muslims  ) and as such, many aspects of the local culture differ from what you may be used to back home. Traditional restaurants do not serve alcohol and visitors are expected to dress conservatively in public. Women in particular should keep their shoulders, upper arms and legs above the knee covered at all times. Homosexuality is illegal and LGBTQ+ travelers are advised to avoid any public displays of affection; homosexual behavior (including kissing) can be prosecuted with a fine of up to three years in jail.   If you travel during the month of Ramadan , most Moroccans that you meet will be fasting during daylight hours, and local restaurants will stay closed throughout the day. Most mosques are off-limits to non-Muslims.

Bathroom etiquette is very different in Morocco, where squat toilets are far more common than the Western variety. Instead of toilet paper, bathrooms are equipped with a bucket of water or a hose which you use in conjunction with your left hand to clean yourself. Consequently, the left hand is never used to eat with or to greet people in Morocco. Make sure to shake hands using your right hand, and remember that pointing is also considered impolite and should be avoided. It is customary to tip in Morocco for good service, but also to haggle over prices in the souks. If you’re new to haggling, the best practice is to start by offering half of the vendor’s initial asking price and negotiate a mutually agreeable number from there. 

Thwart the pickpockets in crowded areas by concealing your cash in a money belt, and avoid carrying large amounts on you. Be equally discreet with jewelry and expensive camera equipment. 

Money Saving Tips

• Scam artists are common in tourist hotspots like Marrakesh’s Djema el Fna square. Black market money exchangers often deal in counterfeit cash, and vendors or street performers who give you “gifts” will usually demand payment later. 
• Buy your meals from street vendors for the cheapest food prices. If a stall is full of local patrons, it’s a good indication that the food can be trusted. 
• Book tours with respected local operators rather than arranging them in advance with international tour companies. You’ll often get a better price and may even be able to negotiate further discounts. 
• When shopping at the souks , don’t be intimidated into buying things you don’t want. If you’re not interested or the price isn’t right, simply walk away. 
• Haggling isn’t just for the souks. It’s also for tours, car rentals, and especially taxis. Most taxis are not metered and the first price you are quoted will be way over the odds. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in. 
• Carry plenty of small notes to avoid paying more than you should when drivers or vendors tell you they don’t have change. 
• If you have the time, travel by train or long-distance bus instead of taking domestic flights. Both methods of transport are safe and comfortable. Grand taxis (shared taxis) are even cheaper, but not so reliable. 

Kingdom of Morocco Ministry of Foreign Affairs. " List of countries whose citizens are exempted from entry visa into Morocco. "

U.S. Department of State. "Morocco 2018 International Religious Freedom Report." Page 3. May 2019.

U.S. Department of State. " 2019 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Morocco, Section 6. Discrimination, Societal Abuses, and Trafficking in Persons ." 2019.

The Top 15 Things to See and Do in Morocco

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Marrakesh, Morocco

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Morocco

The Best Time to Visit Morocco

The 18 Top Things to Do in Meknes, Morocco

48 Hours in Casablanca: The Ultimate Itinerary

The 12 Best Things to Do in Casablanca

Chefchaouen: Planning Your Trip

The 9 Best Day Trips From Casablanca

Tangier, Morocco: Planning Your Trip

Marrakesh Medina, Morocco: The Complete Guide

Cairo Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Egypt: The Complete Guide

Zagora Guide: Planning Your Trip

The 10 Best Restaurants in Morocco

Your Trip to Casablanca: The Complete Guide

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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

Marrakech Travel Guide: Travel Tips and our Honest Review

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

Casablanca Travel Guide: How to Spend the Perfect Day

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Policy

Traveling to Morocco from Canada

Traveling to Morocco from Canada invites you to discover an exotic culture while staying just near Europe. Morocco is a colorful blend of cultures and the country is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination.

Only a little more than 10 kilometers away from Europe, Morocco enjoys a totally different culture. the land is diverse in terms of religious and ethnic traditions and encompasses Berber, Arab, African, Mediterranean, and Jewish influences.

It is attractive for many reasons. First, it features majestic landscapes, beautiful deserts, unique architecture, and exciting markets. Second, the country is incredibly picturesque, with endless alleys decorated in colorful tiles. Third, it offers a great option for travelers looking to shop. The street markets in Marrakech and Fez provides an unparalleled opportunity for craft hunters, which make them recognized as some of the best in the world. Finally, Morocco is known for its diversity since it culminates in an interesting mix of Arabic, Berber, and Mediterranean influences.

Image credit

Table of Contents

Safety in Morocco for Canadians

According to the  2020 Travel Risk Map Morocco is viewed as a highly safe country to travel to. Travel safety wise, Morocco is as safe as most European countries, the US, and Canada according to the study.

Therefore, traveling to Morocco doesn’t present any threat. You can walk and enjoy the country’s valleys and beautiful landscapes.

Morocco is just like any other country as far as safety is concerned. It is safe to travel to and discover. However, relative risk is presented in its borders with Algeria and in the south near Mauritania. The precaution should be taken if you travel alone. However, if you travel with an agency, there is no risk since travel agencies avoid traveling to red zones.

The zones they visit are safe and distant from any potential risk.

To read more about safety in Morocco, please visit Is it Safe to Travel to Morocco Right Now

Indeed, Morocco is as safe as many European countries. However, if you are a woman, you need to make sure that you respect the traditions and norms of the country. Morocco is a conservative country; therefore, if you are a woman, you need to wear clothes that respect the local culture. The article “ Is Morocco Safe for women ” will help you to read more about Moroccan culture and its people.

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Morocco?

If you are traveling to Morocco from Canada, you must have a passport valid for a period of 6 months before its expiry. Canadian passport holders are granted a visa free access to Morocco. They are allowed entry for a maximum of 90 days.

However, for business in Morocco, you need to follow other procedures which we won’t discuss here. You can visit the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco to the U.S. website .

Flying to Morocco from Canada

Flights are considered to be the best way to travel to Morocco from Canada. The duration of the flight is 8h 30 min and the distance is 7548 km. The average plane ticket price is $600. The cheapest flight option is from Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau airport to Casablanca .

The price range is $308 to $660. The flight is usually 10 h 20min long. You can also fly from Montreal to Marrakesh . The prices range from $311 to $721. The flight is 11 h 34 mn long. You can also fly from Toronto or Ottawa to Casablanca. The flight costs a range of $486 to $758. The time span is up to 12h 54 mn.

When you travel to Morocco, there are two options available; either you travel by yourself, or you choose a travel operator.

Travel to Morocco by yourself

In case you choose to travel by yourself, you need to read a lot about Moroccan culture. Though Morocco is close to Europe, it is totally different. Its culture is influenced by Islam, Arabic, Amazigh, and even European cultures.

Sometimes, when you travel inside the country, you get the feeling that as if you are traveling in different countries. In some places, you feel like you are in Europe while in others you get the impression that you traveled to the past. Some remote places stepped back in time and remained traditional in the modern age.

In addition to culture, you need to know the major attractions to visit. The Sahara Desert comes first, then Marrakesh, Fez, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Rabat, and Essaouira. Each place is unique and presents something special to its visitors.

To see all these attractions, you need at least 10 days. Otherwise, you will spend your vacation in the car without actually enjoying your holidays. Traveling in Morocco involves staying more time in some places, visiting museums, talking to locals, hanging out in the local markets… However, if your stay is short, then the best destination would be the desert. you can read about this in our home page How to Travel in Morocco.

When you travel between cities, try to use trains to avoid Taxi’s scam. Taxi drivers often scam tourists by exaggerating prices. Therefore, the train offers the best travel option when you travel inside Morocco. If it’s not available in the places you would like to visit; then, negotiate the price and ask other travelers.

The other thing to take into account is to hire local guides in big cities, especially in Marrakesh and Fez. There is a considerable risk to get lost in Fez since the old city is big. However, in Marrakesh, you may skip some good attractions.

Traveling to Morocco with a travel operator

The best thing about a travel operator is that you save effort, time, and experience. In addition, if we exclude the price of the hotels, the service is not expensive.

When you choose to travel with a travel operator, you don’t have to worry about anything. It organizes the trip for you and you only set back and enjoy. Moreover, you discover places you won’t reach by yourself. Travel operators know the best attractions in Morocco and they have their methods to reach them.

Travel operators save also effort since you don’t have to make a lot of research about where to travel and how. You simply inform them about the number of days you have, the experience you are looking for, and then they set up everything for you.

Concerning time, you don’t need to stay for hours waiting for taxis and trains, you travel anytime you want in a comfortable 4×4 without worrying about anything. In addition, you will be accompanied by a local driver to tell you about the places you visit, people you meet, and advise you about things to do.

How to select the best Morocco Tours?

Traveling to Morocco from Canada requires selecting the best tour for a perfect vacation. The distance between Canada and Morocco is 7,648 km.

Therefore, we expect a long vacation for Canadian travelers in Morocco.

In general, there are 4 must-see locations in Morocco.  They are the Sahara Desert , Marrakesh , Fez , and Chefchaouen.

These 4 locations are scattered along Morocco; therefore, for those who wish to see them all, they need at least 10 days. Traveling from one location to another takes time.

However, there is a possibility to visit Fez, the Desert, and Marrakesh in just 7 days. In the following sections, we develop more the itineraries of both 10 days and 7 days.

10 days Grand Morocco Tours.

In 10 days, you can see almost all the best attractions in Morocco. The itinerary is as follows.

• Day 1: You arrive at Casablanca and our driver will meet you at the airport.
• Day2: You travel from Casablanca to Chefchaouen via Rabat. You will see all the major attractions along the way
• Day 3: discover Chefchaoeun and travel to Fez via Meknes and Volubilis
• Day 4: Fez guided city tour
• Day 5: Fez to Merzouga. You ride camels and camp in the desert
• Day 6: Merzouga. Discovering the desert and meeting locals
• Day 7: Merzouga to Ouarzazate. See rocks and beautiful scenery along the way
• Day 8: Ouarzazate to Marrakesh via Ait Ben Haddou.
• Day 9: Marrakesh guided city tour.
• Day 10: fly home

The details of this tour can be found here.

7 days Marrakesh, the Desert, and Fez tour.

This tour can also be amazing if you are traveling to Morocco from Canada. The tour can be started in either Marrakesh or Fez and follow the same itinerary. If it started in Marrakesh, it will end in Fez and vise versa. Let’s suppose that it starts in Marrakesh.

• Day 1: You arrive at Marrakesh airport and our driver will meet you there.
• Day2: Marrakesh city guided tour
• Day 3: Marrakesh to Dades Valley via Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate.
• Day 4: Dades Valley to Merzouga
• Day 5: Merzouga to Fez via Azrou and Ifrane.
• Day 6: Fez guided city tour
• Day 7: Flying home

You can enjoy Morocco from Canada in just 7 days. The two best cities are included in the package. In addition, you will see the desert and experience wildlife. The detials of the tour are found here

For any question or enquiry for your traveling to Morocco from Canada, please contact us!

Comment (1)

Magnificent web site. Plenty of helpful information here. I am sending it to a few friends ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thank you for your sweat!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

or continue with

Select User Type

Reset Password

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

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?

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

[kt_box opacity=”1″ background=”#eded6d”]

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

[columns] [span6]

[/span6][span6]

[/span6][/columns]

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.

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.

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!

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!

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. 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

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

− − Content Menu

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

SEE More International City Guides

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

KYOTO, JAPAN

LONDON, ENGLAND

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

NEWFOUNDLAND, CANADA

PARIS, FRANCE

PORTO, PORTUGAL

QUEBEC CITY, CANADA

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

TOKYO, JAPAN

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

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.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Morocco

A colorful blend of cultures, Morocco is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. Only a little more than 10 kilometres away from the Spanish coast, Morocco is a bridge between North Africa and Europe that features impressive architecture, beautiful desert vistas and exciting markets.

Morocco is incredibly picturesque, with endless alleys decorated in colorful tiles. Moroccan food is famous for its use of spices that culminate in an interesting mix of Arabic, Berber and Mediterranean influences.

Morocco also has some great options for visitors looking to shop, with street markets in Marrakech recognized as some of the best in the world. Marrakech is also famous for its street theatre, prominently played out in Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech’s main square, named a ‘Masterpiece of World Heritage’ by UNESCO.

Do I Need Vaccines for Morocco?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Morocco. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Morocco: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Polio – Food & Water – Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.

See the tables below for more information:

For more details on any of the above vaccinations, visit our vaccination pages . Or, make an appointment with your local Travel Medicine Specialist. Call or book online to schedule your appointment today.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Morocco?

Canadians do not need a tourist visa for visits of up to 90 days. Travellers must have a passport with at least one blank page. For updated visa information, visit the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco to the U.S. website .

Sources: Embassy of Morocco and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What Is the Climate Like in Morocco?

Morocco’s climate is generally tropical, though the coast features a Mediterranean climate. Morocco’s rainy season lasts from November through March, at which time flash floods are common. In Marrakech, the average temperature is 28 in July and 12 in January.

Is Morocco Safe?

The Canadian Government recommends all travellers exercise a high degree of caution while in Morocco due to terrorist threats. Travel is particularly risky in the Western Sahara border region, where there are thousands of un-exploded mines and reported incidents of violence.

Terrorist threats are higher in crowded public places, government buildings, transportation hubs and places of worship. Establishments associated with the U.S. are at a heightened risk. Travellers should also avoid all political and social demonstrations.

Travellers should be aware of risks of petty crime and maintain vigilance. City buses are not considered safe.

Public beaches around major cities are sometimes unsafe to swim in due to pollution. Travellers should exercise caution to ensure water is safe to swim in.

Moroccan Rules, Customs and Laws

Morocco has some laws and cultural norms many are not used to. These include:

• In Morocco, dress conservatively and avoid public displays of affection.
• Public alcohol consumption outside of licensed hotels, bars and restaurants is illegal.
• LGBT travellers may face considerable risks as consensual sexual acts between same-sex individuals are illegal in Morocco.
• Women should to travel with a companion or in groups to avoid assault in public places.
• The export of Moroccan currency is not prohibited.
• Islam is the official religion in Morocco, and proselytizing is illegal.
• Photographing government or security facilities should be avoided.

Travellers should review Morocco’s laws before entering the country.

What Should I Take To Morocco?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Morocco:

• Modest clothing, especially for women.
• Umbrella and waterproof clothing if you plan to travel during rainy season.
• Comfortable shoes for wandering through markets.
• Light clothing for hot temperatures, with warmer options for cool nights.
• Bug repellent and sunscreen.

High Commission of United States in Morocco

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Morocco, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:

Embassy of Canada to Morocco and Mauritania 66, Mehdi Ben Barka Avenue Rabat-Souissi, Morocco Telephone: (+212) (0)537 54 49 49

If you have any questions about travelling to Morocco or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment by calling or book online now .

Customer Reviews

Passport health – travel vaccines for morocco.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Morocco? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Morocco? What Is the Climate Like in Morocco? Is Morocco Safe? Moroccan Rules, Customs and Laws What Should I Take To Morocco? High Commission of United States in Morocco

• PIPEDA Policy and Consent Form
• Privacy Policy
• Automatic Data Collection Statement

50 Essential Morocco Travel Tips for First-Time Tourists

Morocco is a hot travel destination, and with good reason. It offers a degree of cultural immersion that people might seek by visiting the middle east, but with a relatively progressive government and fairly welcoming people. But if you are planning your first trip to this country, there are a few Morocco travel tips that you really should review before you leave.

Not only with these tips for visiting Morocco help ease your travels within the country, they also help you understand and respect the local culture.

Morocco Travel Tips

Money & tipping.

• The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham. It is very difficult to get Dirham outside of the country and you can’t bring it home. Therefore you should plan on exchanging currency at the airport, or visiting the airport ATM upon arrival or in major cities. There is a currency exchange desk in the baggage claim area in the Casablanca airport.
• Currently Canadian, Australian, and Scottish currency notes are not accepted for exchange in Morocco.
• Very few restaurants accept credit cards, therefore you need to exchange enough money to get you through as it can be hard to find ATMs outside of the big cities.
• Most riads only accept Visa or Mastercard. You don’t need to leave your American Express at home (the Four Seasons accepts it), but make sure you have a back up.
• When getting money at the ATM, you can withdraw a maximum of 2000 Dirham at a time (about $200), with a maximum of 4000 Dirham per day (you can do two back-to-back withdrawals of 2000 each.)
• When exchanging money at the airport, they may try to convince you to put some of the balance onto a debit card. I wouldn’t recommend this as most places still won’t take it (unless they also take credit cards.) Plus there is a fee so it really isn’t a good deal.
• Make sure you get as many small bills (20, 50, and 100 Dirham bills) as you can and try to get coins when purchasing tea, coffee, etc. as you will need them for tipping.
• At gas stations and some restaurants you will often find there is a bathroom attendant keeping it clean and possibly handing out toilet tissue. Drop 1-2 dirham per person into the dish as you go in.
• Tipping is an important part of the culture. Plan on adding about 10% on restaurants. Check the bill first to see if service is included (it usually isn’t). If they accept credit cards and you want to add a gratuity using your card, you need to tell them the amount before they run the card. Otherwise you need to leave cash.
• Guides and drivers should be tipped 100-200 dirhams per full day (at the end of the service.)
• Others that help you should also be tipped including hotel porters, housekeeping, front desk staff if they help you out, etc. We typically gave 50 Dirham to porters and left 5-10 Dirham per day for housekeeping. Pay attention though because some riads share tips (they will let you know and provide an envelope.)
• If someone in the souk allows you to take photos of their shop or goods it is polite to give them a small tip (especially if you aren’t buying something.) Just be sure to ask BEFORE taking pictures.
• You will find street buskers and vendors that will use a gimmick to attract you (like a monkey, snake, etc.) You will be asked to pay for the privilege of taking a picture with them or of them.
• Overall, Morocco is very affordable. Please refer to my Morocco trip budget to see how much a trip to Morocco costs and a breakdown by accommodations, meals, activities, transportation, etc.

Getting Around Morocco

• When you travel to Morocco, your itinerary will probably include moving from place to place. So you need to decide how you are going to get around. I wrote a whole post about driving in Morocco , but I would highly recommend hiring a driver, especially if you are going through the High Atlas Mountains and/or out to the Sahara Desert.
• I know many people worry if it is safe in Morocco . We always felt safe, especially in the care of our dedicated driver, but if you are driving yourselves or using public transportation, remember to stay alert and take standard safety precautions.
• If you decide to drive, be prepared for narrow, winding roads. They are also doing a lot of construction on the roads going through the Atlas Mountains. Don’t be surprised to get stuck behind really slow trucks, busses, and even donkey carts.
• Driving always takes much longer than predicted so plan for it!
• I have never seen as many speed traps in my life as I saw in Morocco. I joked that the government must solve unemployment by hiring police offers. There was a speed trap outside of every town and sometimes it seemed like every five miles along the road and each stop was manned by at least three officers. In addition to speed traps, there are also other police stops to check paperwork. And we saw plenty of tourists pulled over, not just locals. Keep an eye out for drivers coming from the other direction flashing their headlights as a signal of a speed trap ahead.
• There are also a lot of tolls on the highways. You can rent a car with an electronic pass. Otherwise, plan on bringing along plenty of change and small bills.
• When driving, look out for goats and sheep by the side of the road, donkeys pulling carts, people walking along the side of the road, bicycles, and scooters.
• Street signs are usually in French and Arabic but smaller signs and towns may only be in Arabic.

Moroccan Food

• Picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions and allergies may find it tough to eat in Morocco. I would recommend talking to your riad ahead of time as menus are very limited.
• Don’t drink tap water (only bottled water) and be careful about eating uncooked produce, salads, or unpeeled fruits.
• Unlike other countries where cuisine varies from region to region, we saw the same few items on the menu throughout our 12 days in Morocco . Even those that love Moroccan food may crave a little variety so I would recommend make reservations at a non-Moroccan restaurant towards the end of your trip if you will be in a larger city.
• Breakfast: Traditional Moroccan breakfast is quite a feast, especially for carb lovers. There is usually fresh fruit, delicious orange juice, eggs, yogurt (which is so good with some local honey mixed in), and a mix of pastries, breads, and Moroccan pancakes. There are three types of Moroccan pancakes. One is crepe like, one is spongier (called 1,000 holes), and melawi — which was my personal favorite. Melawi is a layered pancake that is fried, a lot like a Chinese scallion pancake without the scallions.
• Moroccan mint tea: Moroccan mint tea is served as a welcome drink and with every meal. Keep in mind that they add a LOT of sugar (probably the equivalent of four cubes), so if you are watching your sugar, ask for it without sugar.
• First course: lunch and dinner at most sit-down restaurants are pretty much the same. The first course is usually either Moroccan Harira soup, salads (tomato / onion / cucumber), pickled or marinated vegetables, or briouts, which are either cigar or triangular-shaped phyllo dough filled with cheese, meat, or seafood and deep-fried.
• Main course: The main course is typically either a tagine or couscous. Typical tagines are chicken with lemon and olives, Kefta meatballs with egg in tomato sauce, or chicken or meat (beef, lamb, or goat) with prunes and apricots. Sometimes you may also see tangia, which is a stewed meat and vegetable dish cooked in the ashes at the hammam. You may also see pastilla, which is chicken or pigeon meat baked in a “pie” with a crispy crust that is very similar to phyllo. This tends to be very dry.
• Desserts: Desserts are typically fairly light. You will see fruit, various mousse / creme, or pastilla with cream, which is layered like a Napoleon.
• Keep in mind that the traditional Friday night meal is couscous. Couscous is served in layers. The couscous is on the bottom and it has been steamed over the meat to get the flavor cooked in. Then you have the meat and all around and over the meat you will have large pieces of cooked root vegetables.
• Moroccans typically eat dinner late, usually after nine, although it is easy enough to get an earlier reservation. In between lunch and dinner, many people may stop by the souk for a sandwich of grilled turkey, kefta, or sausage, to tide them over.

Moroccan Culture

• Clothing: I wrote an entire post about what to wear in Morocco , with examples for both men and women, but the most important thing to remember is that this is a Muslim, conservative country and you should dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders, knees, and cleavage (a scarf works well.) Knees should also be covered and clothing should be loose. So flowy pants or long skirts. If you wear tighter pants, make sure your bottom is covered. Men should wear long pants and short or long-sleeve shirts. The only exceptions I saw to this were in Marrakech, where the tourists were surprisingly ignoring these norms and I saw everything from short shorts to tank tops and cropped shirts. Personally I wouldn’t have felt comfortable in that and it is sure to draw some perhaps unwanted attention.
• Religion: Obviously Morocco is an Muslim country. This means you will hear the call to prayer throughout the city multiple times a day, starting before dawn. Many shops in the souk and restaurants will be closed on Fridays. And as beautiful as the mosques may be, non-Muslims are not allowed in to most mosques. Only a few restaurants serve alcohol and you will only find pork products at the tourist hotels.
• Photos: Photos of people are very uncommon in Islam and if you take pictures with people in them (or look like you are), most will be mad and offended. If you want pictures with people in them, try taking pictures from afar and from the back, not with people in the main focus. If you do want to take a picture of someone, such as a merchant in the souk, ask them first. It is also appreciated to tip your subject 2-10 dirhams. If someone is upset, apologize and delete if requested, or try to show you were taking a photo above or below by making sure the camera isn’t pointed at them.
• Language: The official languages in Morocco are French, Berber, and Moroccan Arabic. However, most people in restaurants and hotels will speak some English. If you are shopping in the souk, especially for produce and food (versus souvenirs), it may be harder to communicate in English so some French is very helpful.
• Hammam: The neighborhood hammam plays an important role in Moroccan culture, giving men and women a place to meet (separately) and talk during a hot steam bath and scrub. Many riads will also have their own hammam. You will first spend time in a steam room and then move to a cooler room for a vigorous scrub with black soap. Women usually go naked, but you can wear a bathing suit. Men should wear bathing trunks.

Shopping in Morocco

• Bargaining is what they call the “national sport” of Morocco. When shopping in the souk, be prepared to haggle. Start around 50-60% of asking price (unless marked fixed price), end around 60-80% depending on how much you want it. If you really want it, tell them your final best price Don’t act too eager, be ready to walk away. Often if you buy a lot, they will thrown in a gift. Some places like the pottery cooperative will ship.
• In the souk, a lot of products are imported knock offs. Ask to see how things are made and to meet the artisan. If you can find out if the shop is owned by an artisan, you know the goods are authentic. We met a metal worker who did filigree on beautiful lamps and he was fifth generation.
• Argan oil is best in Marrakech to Essaouira 
• Rose products should be purchased from a women’s cooperative in the Rose Valley near Skoura These women owned cooperatives are supporting women and therefore the price is fixed (no bargaining.)
• Spices and herbs are best to buy in Marrakech. Just watch out for those selling fake saffron. Saffron should have long threads with yellow threads connected to the red. Remember that spices and powders should be packed in your checked luggage (not your carry on.)
•  Pottery such as tagines should be purchased at the pottery cooperative in Fes (you can bargain there.)
• Leather goods such as shoes, bags, and jackets should be purchased at the tanneries in Fes (you can also bargain here.) Those pretty leather shoes will typically be $10-15, a leather jacket can be found for around $200, and nice leather purses around $40-80.

Other Things to Know

• Visas are not currently required for U.S. citizens for stays less than 90 days, however you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity from your date of exit from Morocco.
• Fill out the visitor card they give you on the plane before you arrive. If they don’t give you one, make sure you get one before you get into the immigration line.
• Expect a long line at immigration upon arrival into Morocco. To speed things up, you can pay for expedited entry for approximately 75 euro per person. You will be greeted at the jetway upon exiting the plane and walked to the Diplomat entry line of immigration, which is much shorter. (We paid for this service on arrival because we had such a long travel day.)
• At Casablanca airport, when you depart, if your riad/hotel did not give you a visitor card to fill out, make sure you get one and fill it out BEFORE you go scan your boarding pass to go into security. Otherwise you will have to go back out to get one.
• It is recommended that you have inoculations against tetanus, hepatitis A, polio, and typhoid at least one month before you travel.
• Morocco does not observe daylight savings time and stays at GMT+1 throughout the year. If you put appointments into your calendar before the time change and you are traveling after the time change, this can create some confusion.
• Electricity is 220V, 50Hz, so U.S. visitors will need a European adaptor with two-round pin plugs.
• WiFi in riads can be limited, so don’t plan on doing any big downloads or streaming.
• The best time to visit would be from March through May or September and October. April is when the roses will be blooming in Rose Valley. Keep in mind that it can still be cool at night, especially in the north, so bring layers. It will be very hot in the summer. There is a big difference between the temperature in the sun versus the shade. Keep in mind that it is much cooler in the medina when you are out of the sun.

[plan-trip]

If you are planning a trip to Morocco, here are some other articles and travel guides that may help:

• Find out how much a trip to Morocco costs
• Get a sample 7, 10, or 14-day Morocco itinerary
• Driving in Morocco 
• What to wear in Morocco

[/plan-trip]

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: April 15, 2019

Comments are closed.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & RECEIVE A FAMILY VACATION PLANNING KIT!

We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting [email protected] . By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

Start typing and press enter to search

Book by Phone:   +1 888 672 0005

Book by Phone:   +1 888 672 0005

Risk / Health Info for Morocco

Do i need shots for morocco.

There are some injections to get before going to Morocco and your healthcare adviser can guide you. Your shots should be up to date before you go to Morocco. Your healthcare adviser can tell you about vaccines that will prevent hepatitis A and typhoid , two nasty gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated food and water. You can further reduce the risk of “ travellers’ diarrhea ” by using only commercially bottled water for drinking and ice cubes. Don’t eat food that you have not peeled yourself or that has not been cooked or boiled.

Can I catch rabies in Morocco?

It is possible to get rabies in Morocco if an infected animal bites or licks you. Make sure your shot is up to date, especially if you will spend time in remote areas or work with animals. Always get immediate medical attention if you are bitten or scratched by an animal during your time in Morocco, even if you have been vaccinated, so that a healthcare professional can decide whether to recommend post-exposure rabies prophylaxis.

Should I get vaccinated against hepatitis B before going to Morocco?

Regular travellers and long-stay visitors should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis B , which is spread by contact with contaminated blood or body products. Other groups at risk include children and healthcare workers. If you think you are at elevated risk of exposure to hep B, tell your Canadian Travel Clinics adviser.

Can I get healthcare in Morocco?

Private medical care in Morocco is generally good, but can be pricey. Your provincial or territorial health insurance will not cover you when you leave Canada, so get travel insurance before you go.

The emergency number in Morocco is 150.

Is it safe to get a henna tattoo in Morocco?

Henna tattoos are a popular experience for many visitors to Morocco – but some people are susceptible to a painful allergic reaction to the chemical PPD that is in some henna formulations.

Are there any mosquito-borne illnesses in Morocco

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Morocco, including dengue fever and malaria so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. Choose clothing with long sleeves and legs and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets, too. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

Recommended Vaccines for Morocco

Book your travel vaccinations for morocco, select your nearest clinic.

Travel Clinic Calgary Downtown

Travel Clinic Ottawa Downtown

Travel Clinic Toronto Downtown University Ave (Queen/University)

Travel Clinic Vancouver Kitsilano (West Broadway & Yew Street)

Travel Clinic Edmonton Downtown

Travel Clinic Winnipeg Downtown

Travel Clinic Winnipeg South 2 (2770 Pembina Highway)

About morocco.

The North African country of Morocco draws visitors with its coast, culture and history. It has Roman ruins and Islamic sites; and there are plenty of opportunities for expeditions and adventure.

top Tips for travelling to Morocco

Between March and November head to the Atlas Mountains for trekking. In Marrakech there are some cookery schools where you can explore Moroccan food.

Our vaccination and travel health clinics in Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto & Vancouver will ensure that you are up-to-date on all the travel immunizations recommended by healthcare professionals. Canadian Travel Clinics will ensure you are protected by all the recommended shots before you leave the country.

CALL OUR APPOINTMENTS BOOKING LINE +1 888 672 0005

Corporate Office:

Canadian Travel Clinics Suite # 2010 -  First Alberta Place 777 - 8 Avenue SW Calgary,  AB T2P 3R5

+1 888 672 0005

Important Pages

Travel Clinic Calgary

Travel Clinics Toronto

Travel Clinics Vancouver

Travel Clinics Winnipeg

Travel Clinics Edmonton

© Canadian Travel Clinics 2019

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

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

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.