Morocco. African country with European roots. A favorite destination for adventurous travelers and backpackers and an exotic experience for old-fashioned holidaymakers. Travel to Morocco and discover the beauties of its cities, experience a trip to the desert and the Atlas Mountains, catch the waves of the Atlantic Ocean and be absorbed by the amazing atmosphere and learning about a different culture. But before you pack, pour some useful facts about this magical place in your head.
Situated in North Africa, the Kingdom of Morocco has a population of almost 36 million. The population is made up of Arabs, Amazigh-Berbers, Haratins and Sahrawi. Morocco is a liberal Islamic country with an Arab-Islamic identity and is considered a safe and cheap tourist destination for travelers from all over the world.
- Capital: Rabat
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham, 1 € = 10.7783 MAD
- Language: Amazigh-Berber, Arabic, Moroccan Arabic and French
- Visa Required: Check this information at your Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- The Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter the Kingdom of Morocco and may stay up to 90 days: Algeria – Andorra – Argentina – Australia – Austria – Bahrain – Belgium – Brazil – Bulgaria – Canada – Chile – China – Republic of Congo – Croatia – Cyprus – Czech Republic – Denmark – Estonia – Finland – France – Germany – Great Britain – Greece – Guinea (Conakry) – Hong Kong – Hungary – Iceland – Indonesia – Ireland – Italy – Ivory Coast – Japan – Kuwait – Latvia – Liechtenstein – Lithuania – Luxemburg – Mali – Malta – Mexico – Monaco – Netherlands – New Zealand – Niger – Norway – Oman – Peru – Philippines -Poland – Portugal – Puerto Rico – Qatar – Romania – Saudi Arabia – Senegal – Singapore (Singaporean nationals may stay up to one month without visa) – Slovakia – Slovenia – South Korea – Spain – Sweden – Switzerland – Tunisia – Turkey – United Arab Emirates – United States of America .
How to travel to Morocco
It is possible to get to Morocco from the whole world by air, the busiest international airports are in Casablanca, Marrakesh, Fes and Agadir and from Europe by ferry (Tarifa – Tangier). In Morocco, you can use trains, high speed trains, buses, petit taxi, grand taxi or private drivers to travel between cities, or daily excursions with other tourists.
Vaccinations and Health Care
When traveling to Morocco, there is no need to have any special vaccinations. However, care should be taken with hygiene, regular washing of hands, it is useful to pack with you a disinfectant gel or moistened handkerchiefs. You can also use medicines for diarrhea or intestinal problems, but we recommend drinking only bottled water in Morocco and you should be fine. The first aid is free in Morocco, but do not forget travel insurance.
Learn more about recommended vaccinations for travelers planning to visit Morocco on KLM health services website.
What about my safety?
Morocco is considered a safe tourist destination, but it is not worth the risk, anywhere in the world. Avoid nightly strolls through the dark alleys outside the city center, do not walk by yourself in the dark and always have a professional guide with you for trips, hiking in the Atlas or excursions. Female tourists may also experience inadequate looks and “catcalling”, and young Moroccan men will try to make eye contact, but dark glass sunglasses will be your best friend in this case. Do not wear challenging clothes or opulent jewelry. In Medina or in the markets, always keep your eyes on your belongings, carry the backpack and handbag in front, carry only a copy of the documents. You will always find both city and tourist police officers in the city.
Moroccan Dirham and cash
In Morocco you pay with the Moroccan Dirham. There are many currency exchange offices, banks and ATMs at the airport and in the city center for more cash. But, there are only a few places in the old town where you can pay with a card.
Get ready to bargain
In the markets you will notice souvenirs, without a price tag, but also stalls that report: “fix price, no bargain”, in these stalls you do not have to bargain, which some tourists prefer more than to zealously argue about the price. The dealing about the price belongs to the Moroccan culture of sales, but don’t be too hard or disrespectful. Everything has its worth so don’t try to too much to buy as cheaply as possible. When you had negotiated the final price with a merchant, it is a good habit to invite you to green sweet mint tea. Do not refuse.
Moroccan fashion, or what to wear?
Before traveling to Morocco, everyone advises to dress properly, not challenging. But what does that mean? In big cities, you have more freedom in your fashion choices. Put on your shorts, top tanks or short dress. However, when you are moving in rural areas and smaller roads, or are just traveling, we recommend that you have veiled shoulders and trousers or skirts below your knees. Popular are maxi dresses or trousers of loose fit, tunic or Pashmina. Female tourists do not need to wear a hijab.
The sun can be quite sharp in Morocco, especially during the summer season. Protect exposed body parts, avoid burns, wear a hat or cap on your head, stay away from direct sunlight and wear your sunglasses. When the sun goes down, it will cool down considerably, so is good to have a lighter sweater or a jeans jacket with you. If you travel to the desert, prepare long trousers for camel riding (camel fur can be irritating to the skin) and despite being incredibly hot during the day, the nights are cold, so have enough clothes with you.
Let’s go on trip!
Morocco is a huge country waiting for you to discover it. Whether you are traveling to Marrakech or in the north of Fez, you can reach the Sahara, hiking the Atlas, surfing the Agadir or Essaouira or the blue town of Chefchaouen. For less well-known, but equally amazing places, watch influencers and travelers on social media, they will reveal unconventional tips for places that travel agencies do not offer. These trips can be arranged with a private driver and a guide. In Morocco you do not need to book your trip in advance, you will have many opportunities on the spot to choose your trip according to your wishes.
Useful tips from skilled travellers!
- Dress properly, especially in rural areas and in smaller towns
- Before agreeing to the service, first agree on the price to avoid misunderstandings
- Do not take pictures of local, especially veiled women, without asking and permission. Do not take pictures of government buildings, police stations, etc. Photography of attractions, eg. snakes, monkeys, camels or people in traditional clothing is not free
- Keep your cash with you
- Carry copies of your passport and documents
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate a prize
- Avoid overly friendly and intrusive people and don’t be deceived by scams
- Do not drink alcohol in public
When you travel to Morocco, behave with respect for culture and religion. Walk slowly and let yourself be absorbed by the unique atmosphere. There is a new experience and adventure on every corner that will make your journey to Morocco unforgettable.
