Practical info

The essentials before you fly: entry, money, phones, health, culture and what to do if something goes wrong.

Entry and visas

Citizens of many countries, including the EU, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, can visit Morocco without a visa for up to 90 days. Others need a visa or can apply for Morocco's official e-visa. Rules change, so check with a Moroccan embassy or consulate for your nationality before you book, and make sure your passport is valid for your whole stay.

Money

• The currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). It can't be bought in most countries, so change money on arrival at the airport, in a bank or at an exchange office, or use an ATM.
• ATMs are everywhere in the cities. Cards work in hotels, malls and larger restaurants; taxis, souks and small cafés want cash.
• Tipping is appreciated: round up for taxis and leave about 10% in restaurants.
• Keep your exchange receipts if you want to change dirhams back when you leave.

Phone and internet

Maroc Telecom, Orange and inwi sell prepaid SIM cards at the airport and in town (bring your passport). eSIMs also work. Data is cheap and coverage is good in cities. Most riads and hotels have Wi-Fi.

Health and safety

• Morocco is a welcoming country for visitors. As in any big event, watch your phone and wallet in crowds.
• Drink bottled water, and take the heat seriously inland: Marrakech and Fès often pass 35 °C in summer.
• Pharmacies (green cross) are well stocked and pharmacists give good advice. Get travel insurance that covers medical care.

Emergency numbers

Weather in June and July

Hot and dry inland (Marrakech, Fès), mild and breezy on the coast (Casablanca, Rabat, Tanger, Agadir), where evenings can be cool. Rain is rare.

Language

Arabic and Amazigh (Tamazight) are the official languages; people speak Darija, Moroccan Arabic, day to day. French is widely used, Spanish is common in the north, and English is spoken more and more in tourist areas. A few words go a long way: salam (hello), shukran (thank you), la, shukran (no, thank you), bslama (goodbye).

Culture and etiquette

• Dress with respect in the medinas and religious sites: shoulders and knees covered.
• Ask before you photograph people, and don't photograph police, soldiers or official buildings.
• Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims; Casablanca's Hassan II Mosque is open to everyone on guided tours.
• Alcohol is served in licensed bars, hotels and restaurants. Drinking in the street is not allowed.
• On Fridays many shops close around the midday prayer.

Plugs and time

220 V, with European plugs (types C and E). Morocco is on GMT+1 in summer.

Frequently asked questions