When traveling to Morocco, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. From essential documents and currency considerations to understanding local customs and language, being well-informed can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll guide you through the travel essentials you should pack, tips on navigating Morocco’s unique cultural landscape, and practical advice for your journey—from exchanging currency to dining etiquette. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, these insights will help you immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this captivating North African country.
Travel Essentials to Bring
Travel Documents
Bring your passport, plane tickets, and travel necessities. Don’t forget items like an umbrella, camera, charger, sunscreen, and skincare products.
Toiletries
Influenced by European standards, Moroccan hotels may not provide disposable items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, or slippers. Bring these with you.
Cash
Carry US dollars or euros, preferably in smaller denominations for convenience. While bringing foreign currency into Morocco is unrestricted, taking more than $5,000 out requires an entry declaration form. Exchange some Dirhams upon arrival at the airport for immediate use.
Language
Morocco's official language is Modern Standard Arabic, with Darija, a local Arabic dialect, used in daily conversation. French is widely spoken in urban areas and for business. Berber languages are also prevalent in certain regions. While English is increasingly common in tourist spots, knowing some Arabic or French phrases can be very helpful.
Currency
The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You can exchange USD or EUR to dirhams at currency exchange sites or banks, where you may need to present your passport.
2024 Exchange Rates (for reference only, as rates may fluctuate):
1 Euro = 10.6 MAD
1 USD = 9.7 MAD
Time Difference
Morocco is in the GMT+1 time zone:
1 hour ahead of London and Berlin
5 hours ahead of New York
7 hours behind Beijing
9 hours behind Sydney
Climate and Clothing
Morocco’s climate varies by region:
① Northern Morocco: Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
② Central Morocco: Subtropical mountain, mild and humid, temperatures around 20°C.
③ Eastern and Southern Morocco: Tropical desert, averaging 20°C, with low rainfall and hot "sirocco winds."
Communication
Make sure to activate international roaming before traveling to use your mobile phone.
Dining
Morocco offers a diverse dining scene with options beyond its renowned local cuisine. While Moroccan food is a highlight, you can also find a range of international flavors:
Chinese Cuisine
Chinese Cuisine is available in cities like Tangier, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and Fes, though it may differ from the authentic experience found in China.
French & Italian Cuisine
French & Italian Cuisine are widely available, particularly in urban areas, reflecting Morocco’s historical ties with France.
These restaurants can be found in some cities, offering familiar dishes like tapas and paella. Some restaurants offer a mix of popular dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan, such as Thai curries, Vietnamese pho, Korean barbecue, and Japanese sushi. While the flavors are diverse, they may differ from those in their countries of origin.
Voltage and Drinking Water
In Morocco, the standard voltage in major cities is 220 volts. However, Moroccan power outlets are incompatible with Chinese electrical appliances. You will need to purchase a "German standard" adapter before traveling or rent one from the hotel reception upon arrival.
Tap water in hotels is not drinkable. Most hotels do not provide hot drinking water. If you are accustomed to drinking hot water, please bring your own kettle or other appliances to heat water.
Hotels
When using the shower in your hotel bathroom, make sure to pull the shower curtain fully and close the door to prevent water from soaking the carpet. Failure to do so may result in a fine from the hotel.
Most hotels offer pay-per-view television channels.
Please note that telephone calls, minibar beverages, snacks, and laundry services in the hotel are all charged separately.
Upon check-out, be sure to check for any forgotten items. If you request assistance from a bellhop with your luggage, a tip of $1-2 is customary, based on your discretion.
Shopping
Marrakech’s famous open-air markets offer a rich array of products, including metalworks, carpets, dyed textiles, and handcrafted goods from local artisans. These traditional Moroccan craft shops showcase skills that have been refined over centuries, featuring items like diverse leather products, intricately designed metal boxes, and traditional pointed slippers.
The markets are also a great place to practice your bargaining skills. Bargaining is not just about fair trading; for vendors, it is considered an art and a pleasure.
Special Note:
All departing flights have specific regulations regarding liquids: they must be checked in, along with items such as knives, scissors, and nail clippers. Please prepare accordingly in advance.
Other Important Considerations
① Respect Local Customs and Beliefs: Morocco is a predominantly Islamic country, so please respect local beliefs and customs. Avoid making comments about the religion, whether positive or negative. Muslims pray five times a day facing Mecca, so if a driver or guide requests time for prayer, kindly accommodate their needs. When visiting open mosques, remember to remove your shoes, and women should cover their arms and legs. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents.
② Safety and Security: Morocco is one of the safer countries in North Africa, with a friendly and straightforward population. Unlike some other North African countries, you won't encounter severe poverty on the streets of major cities. The streets are generally clean and well-maintained, but remain cautious of your belongings in local markets. Carry a contact card from your hotel, note the contact information of your guide, and keep your ID with you. Please note that Morocco, being a developing country, may not have the same level of tourist services as developed nations like those in Europe.
③ Tipping: When requesting assistance with luggage from hotel bellhops, it is customary to give a tip of around 10 Dirhams. Additionally, a small tip of 1 Dirham is expected when using public restrooms.
Click here to explore more travel guides in Morocco: Travel Inspirations.
Planning to travel to Morocco? You can refer to these itineraries for inspirations:
3-Day Sahara Adventure: Marrakech to Fes via Ait Benhaddou & Merzouga Desert
5-Day Journey through Northern Morocco: A Blend of History and Culture
7-Day Morocco Adventure: A Custom Journey from Marrakech
13-Day Moroccan Odyssey: A Custom Journey from Casablanca
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