Morocco, officially known as the Kingdom of Morocco, is beautifully situated at the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea, making it Africa's nearest gateway to Europe. This enchanting country is celebrated for its spirit of tolerance, where diverse cultures and religions harmoniously blend, and its people are renowned for their warm hospitality.
Capital City: Rabat
Population: 37.1 million (2020 est.)
Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD)
Time Zone: Western European Time - WET (UTC/GMT +0)
Emergency Number: 111
Outlet: Types B/E
Travel Guide
Morocco: Trip Preparation & Destination Information
Your complete travel guide to Morocco
Overview
Packing List
Quick Dry T-shirts
It's likely you'll work up a sweat.
Conservative Clothing
We recommend that women include clothing items that provide coverage for knees and shoulders, like shawls and long skirts.
Fleece or Sweater
Desert temperatures can really take a dive, so we suggest bringing along a cozy sweater to keep you snug and comfy.
Active Shoes
Perfect for wandering through the winding alleys of the medinas or tackling those scenic hiking paths.
Hat & Sunglasses
Shield your eyes from the sun and keep your face protected.
Protect Your Tummy
We suggest packing some Pepto Bismol and Imodium for those unexpected tummy troubles. If you tend to get motion sickness, Dramamine can be a real lifesaver on those bumpy rides!
Sunblock with SPF
In Morocco, the sun beams down with such intensity that the last thing you want is to end up with a lobster-red sunburn. Let's keep your skin safe and happy by packing plenty of SPF. Trust us, your future self will thank you!
Lip Balm
When you're exploring the desert, it's essential to pamper those lips with some tender loving care.
Day Pack
For toting around cameras, snacks, sunscreen, water, and other essentials.
Hand Sanitizer
Do we need to say anything else?
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeping hydrated is key to a great trip! You'll find plenty of opportunities to refill your water bottles with clean water during your stay.
Portable Chargers
Perfect for keeping your batteries charged while you're out and about.
Travel Adapter
We suggest bringing a universal plug adapter as your top choice.
Laundry Soap
Individual packets are just the ticket for quick sink washes when you're running short on clean outfits.
Ear Plugs
Light sleeper? It's great to have on hand if your roommate tends to snore.
Local Currency
We recommend grabbing some local currency before you travel. If you wait until you're at the airport, you might find yourself losing about 15% due to exchange rates. While it's true that many spots accept cards, those charming little local eateries often prefer cash only.
Call Your Bank
Banks can sometimes put a hold on your card if they notice any activity that seems out of the ordinary. We suggest giving them a quick call to inform them about your travel plans, including your destinations and travel dates.
Always pack extra underwear!
Language Information
There are a number of languages in Morocco. The two official languages are Standard Arabic and Standard Moroccan Berber
Common Phrases
Hello أهلا
Hello - أهلا 'ahlan
Goodbye وداعا
Goodbye - وداعا wadaean
Thank youشكرًا لك
Thank you - شكرًا لك shkran lak
Do you speak English?هل تتكلم اللغة الإنجليزية
Do you speak English? - هل تتكلم اللغة الإنجليزية hal tatakalam allughat al'iinjilizia
I don’t understandلا أفهم
I don’t understand - لا أفهم la 'afham
How are you?كيف حالكم
How are you? -كيف حالكم kayf halukum
I’m fine, thank you أنا بخير شكرا لك
I’m fine, thank you - أنا بخير شكرا لك 'ana bikhayr shukran lak
What’s your name?ما اسمك؟
What’s your name? - ما اسمك؟ ma asmuk?
My name is… اسمي هو
My name is… - اسمي هو asmi hu
Where is... أين هو 'الحمام أجهزة الصراف الآلي
Where is... - أين هو 'ayn hu The bathroom - الحمام alhamam An ATM - أجهزة الصراف الآلي 'ajhizat alsaraaf alali
الحمام
The bathroom - alhamam
أجهزة الصراف الآلي
An ATM - 'ajhizat alsaraaf alali
Local Weather
Culture Notes
To align with cultural norms, we recommend that women opt for loose-fitting clothing and steer clear of anything too revealing. For men, it's important to remember that walking around without a shirt is generally not acceptable.
If you're planning a visit during Ramadan, we suggest dressing even more conservatively than usual. While you won't be required to fast, it's considerate to enjoy your meals, drinks, and any smoking indoors, away from those observing the fast during this sacred month.
In Morocco, it's common to see people of the same sex hugging and holding hands, which is simply a gesture of friendship. However, public displays of affection between opposite sexes, like kissing, are not permitted. Additionally, it's important to be aware that homosexuality is illegal in Morocco.
For insights on LGBTQ+ travel safety and tips, we've collaborated with EveryQueer to create this LGBTQ+ Morocco Travel Guide. It's designed to help you have a safe and enjoyable trip while exploring the country to its fullest.
When you're in Morocco and need to call someone over, it's important to avoid using your index finger to gesture, as this is seen as quite disrespectful. Instead, we suggest placing your palm facing down and gently sweeping your hand toward yourself. This is a much more culturally appropriate way to beckon someone.
In Morocco, there are lèse–majesté laws in place, meaning it's against the law to criticize, mock, or speak negatively about the king and the royal family.
We suggest being prepared when traveling to remote areas, as gluten-free or vegan options might not be readily available and may not be familiar to the locals.
Shopping is a vibrant part of the tourist experience, offering everything from spices to beautiful rugs. The local operator collaborates exclusively with shops they've personally vetted, ensuring fair pricing and reliable shipping. However, we suggest brushing up on your bargaining skills, as the initial price is rarely the final one!
Tipping Guide
Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.
Guides USD $10-15 per person/per day
Drivers USD $5-10 per person/per day
Restaurants(full service) 10% of total bill (sometimes is automatically added)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Visa?
Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your return date and contains at least two blank pages. Otherwise, certain countries might deny entry.
Do you recommend travel insurance?
How much should I pack?
Since we'll be using shared transfers and spaces during our tour, we suggest that all travelers pack as lightly as they can. Kindly check our luggage restrictions below.
Is Uber or Lyft available?
Uber isn't available in Morocco. You can opt for a shared petit taxi or a shared grand taxi.