Getting to Morocco

By Air

The Mohammad V foreign Airport in Casablanca, the Menara Airport in Marrakech, and the Saïs Airport in Fes are the country’s three main foreign airports. You can take a direct trip to these airports from Europe, North America, the Middle East, and other parts of Africa.

Direct Flights

Many low-cost airlines, including Royal Air Maroc, Air France, Lufthansa, Iberia, and Turkish Airlines, fly these paths often.

Transfers to and from the airport

When you get there, finding cabs, buses, and hotel shuttles is easy. Car rentals are also available at all the big airports.

By Land

From Spain:

You can take a ferry from Algeciras and Tarifa to Tangier and Ceuta. The trip takes an average of one to two hours.

From Other Places:

Arriving from Algeria is not possible, but overlanders can do so by land from Mauritania. Spain is still the most popular way to land.

By Train

Train Network of ONCF:

It is a safe, comfortable, and cheap way to travel from Casablanca to Rabat, Fes, Marrakech, and Tangier.

A high-speed train goes to Al Boraq:

It takes just over two hours to get from Tangier to Casablanca.

Things on the train:

Modern trains have Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfortable seats on some lines.

Walking with camels and staying in desert camps in the Sahara Desert

A famous place to visit in Morocco is the Sahara Desert. People can ride camels through the golden sand dunes and sleep in fancy desert camps under the stars. The most famous way to get into the desert is through Merzouga, which leads to the Erg Chebbi dunes. For people who like to try new things, it’s an unforgettable adventure with chances to see the stars and connect with the culture of the local Berber nomads.

A coastal gem is Essaouira

Assaouira is a lovely coastal city with a laid-back vibe for beach fans and history buffs. The Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site that you can walk through. You can also check out the famous Skala de la Ville. The beautiful beaches in Essaouira are great for sailing, and the seafood is fresh. Its unique coastal charm comes from its cute, narrow streets and blue-and-white buildings.

Hiking and Trekking in the Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are an excellent place for people who love the outdoors. Hiking and trekking are great in this mountain range. Trails go through Berber towns and give views of green valleys and snow-capped peaks. Trekkers love the Toubkal National Park because it has Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Imlil and Ourika Valley are great places to go hiking and have beautiful views.

Roman Ruins in Meknes and Volubilis

As one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Meknes has both Moorish and Roman buildings and history. Check out the Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the beautiful Bab Mansour gate. The Volubilis ruins are close by and a UNESCO World Heritage site. They have some of the best-preserved Roman remains in North Africa.

Activities and Adventures

Going on a camel ride in the Sahara Desert

Camel trekking in the Sahara Desert is a unique experience that lets people see the desert’s massive dunes from a camel’s back. During this trip, you’ll usually spend the night in a fancy desert camp and eat a traditional Moroccan meal outside under the stars. This is a great way to experience the beauty and peace of Morocco’s deserts.

Going hiking in the Atlas Mountains

People who love the outdoors must go trekking in the Atlas Mountains. From green slopes and waterfalls to snow-capped peaks, the mountains have some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Hikers can visit traditional Berber towns and learn about the way of life in those areas. Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, is a popular place to go on a trek because it is both challenging and beneficial.

Going surfing in Taghazout

Taghazout is a great place to surf in Morocco. It is on the Atlantic coast. Surfers from all over the world come to the town to ride the reliable waves. Taghazout has surf schools and beaches for people of all skill levels, from people who have never surfed before to people who do it all the time. Some of the best places to catch big waves are Anchor Point and Panoramas Beach.

Going on hikes in the Rif Mountains

Hiking in the Rif Mountains is a more peaceful and secluded way to get away from other mountain areas in Morocco. With its thick woods, rushing rivers, and rough hills, the Rif is known for its stunning scenery. It’s also a great place to go if you want to relax, as the area is full of small, beautiful villages that offer a unique cultural experience.

Experiences with Culture

Morocco has a lot of history and culture, so tourists can have many different cultural experiences there. Explore old kasbahs, fortified towns, and grand palaces, showing off the country’s most impressive architecture. Beautiful churches, madrassas, and souks (markets) full of traditional Moroccan crafts can also be found in the country. Morocco’s Islamic art and Berber culture are exciting to people who are interested in history.

Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan food mixes Arab, Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean flavors. It is known for its strong spices, slow-cooked meals, and bright display. One of the best things about going to Morocco is that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Tagine

Tagine is a traditional Moroccan dish simmered in a clay pot with a cone-shaped lid. It often has veggies, meat (chicken, lamb, or beef), and a lot of different spices, such as cumin, saffron, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika. Here are some well-known types:

• Salmon with olives and lemons that have been kept
• A lamb dish with prunes and almonds
• Tagine for vegetarians with chickpeas and seasonal veggies

It comes with fresh Moroccan bread used to scoop up the food instead of forks and spoons.

Couscous

One of the most popular foods in Morocco is couscous. It’s made from steamed semolina and is usually served with a veggie and meat stew, lamb or chicken. On top, caramelized onions and raisins make it look fancy. People in Morocco typically eat it on Fridays, which is a holy day, and they often share it with their family.

Pastella

This is a classic Moroccan sweet and savory pie called pastilla. It is made with pigeon or chicken, ground almonds, cinnamon, and layers of crispy phyllo pastry. It has cinnamon and powdered sugar on top of it. It’s one of the most expensive meals in Morocco and is often served at weddings and other special events.

Tea with Mint

Moroccans drink mint tea all the time. It is served in small cups and poured from above to make foam. It is made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and much sugar. People give it to guests in their homes, shops, and even business meetings as a sign of hospitality.

Desserts and sweets

Honey, dates, orange blossom water, and walnuts are often used to make sweets in Morocco. Some popular ones are:

• Chebakia is apple-shaped fried dough that has been soaked in honey.
• The cookies in Ghriba are crumbly and are made from nuts or coconut.
• Makrout are semolina cakes that are filled with date paste.
• Sellou is a spicy, nutty flour mix that is eaten during Ramadan.

As a treat, people often have fresh fruit like melons, oranges, and pomegranates.

Shopping and Souks

Shopping in Morocco is more than just a business deal; it’s a way to learn about the culture. In the busy medinas and artisan workshops, you can find handmade treasures and traditional goods that showcase Morocco’s rich history.

Souks in Marrakech

Some of the most well-known souks in the world are in Marrakech. These busy markets are in the old Medina and are a maze of lanes full of:

• Cumin, saffron, and ras el hanout are spices.
• A Berber rug or carpet
• Dress from the past (djellabas, kaftans, babouches)
• Gold and silverware
• Bags, belts, and poufs made by hand from leather.

You should start negotiating at half the price being offered. It’s fun and normal to do so.

Tannery in Fes

Fes has some of the oldest tanneries in the world, with the Chouara Tannery being the oldest. From rooftops, you can see craftspeople soaking and dyeing leather in bright vats with indigo, saffron, and other natural colors.

Some products are:

• Jackets, shoes (babouches), and bags made by hand out of leather
• Bags, belts, and other small things
• Custom orders can often be placed directly with the businesses.

Chefchaouen

Beautiful scarves, ponchos, and handmade blankets made of wool are made in this quiet mountain town. Other one-of-a-kind things:

• Ceramics drawn by hand
• Argan oil soaps and other natural beauty products
• Hats and baskets made in the area
• It’s easier to shop here and often cheaper than in bigger towns.

Meknes

People worldwide know Meknès for its silver jewelry, zellige (mosaic tiles), and pottery. What you’ll find is:

Ceramic plates and tagines that were made by hand

Bowls for decoration with classic Islamic designs

Pieces made of sterling silver with Berber (Amazigh)

Many of these items are still handmade by skilled local artists using old methods.

How to Haggle

• In Morocco, it’s not just okay to bargain; it’s expected!
• Say “Salam Alaikum” to the seller every time you see them.
• Don’t get too excited about something.
• Make an offer 50–60% less than what was asked.
• It’s a nice game, so be patient and polite.
• People will often call you back with a better deal if you leave.

People don’t usually haggle in modern shops or unions, especially women’s co-ops, where prices are set.

Culture and Etiquette

Morocco’s history is very old, and the country is a mix of Arab, Berber (Amazigh), and Islamic styles. As a visitor, knowing and following the local traditions can make your time there and the people you meet much better.

Language

The official language is Arabic, and many people speak it every day. Darija is the Moroccan accent.

• Amazigh, a Berber language, is spoken in many rural places, especially in the Sahara and the mountains.
• French is used frequently at work, school, on signs, and when talking to people in cities.
• More and more people in tourist places speak English, especially younger people, hotel staff, and tour guides.

How to Dress

Most Moroccans, especially those who live outside of big towns, dress modestly. Tourists don’t have to follow the local dress code exactly, but it’s nice to wear clothes that show respect.

• In towns, you can wear casual Western clothes.
• Cover your shoulders, cleavage, and knees in the country or a religious place.
• Swimwear is fine at beaches and pools, but not anywhere else.

Tip: Women who go to mosques or places with strict rules should bring a scarf or shawl.

How to Take Good Pictures

• Always ask before taking a picture of someone, especially if you are in a rural area or with older people.
• An awful lot of Moroccans will pose for you if you ask nicely.
• Like snake charmers, people who do street acts in Jemaa el-Fna want tips in exchange for pictures.
• Do not take photos of police officers, government buildings, or military troops.

Giving tips (Baksheesh)

It’s part of Moroccan tradition to leave tips, and it’s always appreciated:

• 10–15% if it’s not already on the bill at restaurants
• Taxis: Add one more dollar to the price.
• 10–20 MAD for hotel staff
• Tourist guides charge 50 to 100 MAD for a half-day trip.
• 10 to 20 MAD for hammams or spa staff
• It’s easy to show thanks with small actions.

Rules for Ramadan

In the holy month of Ramadan, when people fast:

• From dawn until dusk, Muslims fast, which means they don’t eat, drink, or smoke in public.
• Tourists aren’t expected to fast, but it is polite to be quiet.
• There are still many places open in tourist areas, but service may be slower or less frequent during the day.
• Iftar, or the meal at sunset, is a lovely time to observe or participate in cultural practices.

During this time, say “Ramadan Mubarak,” which means “Blessed Ramadan,” to people in the area.

Traveling with Kids And Families

Morocco is an excellent place for families to visit because it offers many cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and safe activities for kids. Morocco has much to offer young tourists, whether they want to explore a medina, ride camels, or relax on the beach.

Top Things for Kids to Do

• Camel rides in Merzouga or Zagora—dune walks that are safe and led by a guide.
• You can use paddle boats to get to the Menara Gardens in Marrakech.
• You can spend time at the Oasiria Water Park in Marrakech or a beach lodge in Agadir.
• Take a cavaleche (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the old towns.
• In artisan workshops, you can learn how to make pottery or rugs (kids should be watched).

Tips for Making Things Safe for Kids

• Many places offer non-spicy options. Couscous, grilled meat skewers, and fresh drinks are all great for kids.
• Remember to bring hand sanitizer, tissues, sunscreen, hats, and water bottles for your health.
• Look for riads or hotels with family rooms, baby cots, or babysitting services.
• Morocco is usually safe, but beware of little kids in souks (busy markets).
• Cobblestone streets make pushing strollers through old medinas difficult; baby carriers are better for these areas.

The best places for families to visit

• Agadir has beach resorts with pools and fun things for people of all ages to do.
• Essaouira has long white beaches and a calm medina.
• Marrakech has parks, gardens, and things you can do.
• Chefchaouen has quiet streets and a lot of colorful buildings that make it an excellent place for kids to explore.
• Cultural places in Fes and Rabat that are easy to visit in a day

Morocco is gradually improving accessibility for travelers with disabilities, particularly in major cities. While ancient medinas and some rural areas can be challenging, many modern hotels, transportation hubs, and attractions are becoming more inclusive.

Useful Arabic Phrases for Travelers

Knowing a few simple words and sentences in Moroccan Arabic (Darija) can make a big difference in your trip. People in the area enjoy the effort, often making interactions more friendly.

Essential Phrases

Tips for Language Use

• Many people can also speak and understand French, especially older people and people who live in cities.
• Grammar isn’t essential; people enjoy it when you try to speak their language.
• Many people in the countryside know the Amazigh languages. Smiles and hand gestures are very helpful.

Bonus Phrases to Impress Locals

Annual Festivals and Events 

Morocco has a wide range of religious, cultural, musical, and harvest events every month of the year. Attending one of these events can make your trip even more exciting

Top Cultural & Music Festivals

Nature & Harvest Festivals

Religious Events (Variable Dates)

• Ramadan is a month of fasting, the dates of which change every year. It is a quiet and holy time.
• Eid al-Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan with family and food.
• As part of the “Festival of Sacrifice” (Eid al-Adha), people give animals as sacrifices and give money to good causes.

For exact dates during your trip, look at the Islamic calendar or ask people who live there.

Internet, SIM Cards & Staying Connected

It’s easy to stay connected in Morocco, especially in towns and tourist spots. Learn about SIM cards, Wi-Fi, mobile data, and the best trip apps.

How to Get a SIM Card in Morocco

• Tourist SIM cards are cheap and easy to find, especially at:
• (Casablanca, Marrakech, Fes, and Tangier)
• Maroc Telecom, Orange Morocco, and Inwi are the official phone shops.
• Convenience shops or kiosks in the middle of cities

Prices (may change)

• 5 to 10 GB of data for 50 maghrebs ($5)
• Prepaid cards that can be topped up at stores or through an app
• Valid for one to four weeks, based on the package

Most places don’t need a passport; some providers allow eSIM (check to see if your phone is compatible).

Access to Wi-Fi

• You can get it in most hotels, restaurants, cafés, riads, and airport lounges.
• Speed changes: it’s usually fast in cities and slower in deserts and rural places.
• You must pay a small fee to use the Wi-Fi in some coffee shops.

Recommended Travel Apps

Electricity and Charging

• Voltage: 220V

• Plug types: Type C (Europlug) and Type E (French plug)

• Most modern hotels support universal plug types — bring an adapter just in case

In Remote Areas (e.g. Sahara, Mountains)

• Mobile signal may be weak or unavailable

• Some desert camps offer solar-powered Wi-Fi or satellite connection

• Download maps, documents, and entertainment before leaving urban areas

Accommodation in Morocco

There are many places to stay in Morocco, from traditional riads and boutique hotels to beach resorts and desert camps, so there is something for every taste and budget. What you do in Morocco can depend on where you stay.

The authentic Moroccan charm of riads

Riads are traditional Moroccan homes built around a courtyard with gardens, ponds, and tilework called zellij. What they offer:

• A peaceful haven in the middle of busy medinas
• Customized service and decor from the area
• Breakfasts made from scratch in Morocco
• A chance to stay in ancient homes that have been fixed up

Some riads are very fancy, while others are more affordable. Check reports and pictures constantly.

Hotels: From Cheap to Five-Star Luxurious

All over the country, you can find modern restaurants that offer:

• Hotels like Hilton, Sofitel, Radisson Blu, and Four Seasons are part of international groups.
• Business hotels in the middle price band and small hotels
• Features that are good for families, like pools, spas, and kids’ clubs
• Ideal for people who want to feel at ease in a Western style
• Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, Rabat, and Fes have the most hotels of the cities we examined.

Camps in the desert: Sleep under the stars

A night in the Sahara Desert is often the best part of a trip for many people. In desert camps like those in Merzouga and Zagora, you can:

• Berber tents from the past (from simple to fancy choices).
• Camel rides at dawn and dusk.
• Watching the stars away from city lights.
• Moroccan meals, campfires, and live shows.

High-end camps have:

• Bathrooms with a door.
• Power (from the sun or a generator).
• Good food and comfortable bed.s

Beach Resorts

Resorts on the Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches offer:

• Access to the beach with loungers and water sports.
• Packages that are good for families and couples.
• Spa services and food from the area.
• Many people in Agadir, Essaouira, Taghazout, and Tangier like it.

Hostels and cheap options

For tourists on a budget and by themselves:

• There are many hostels in Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen.
• There are dorm rooms and private rooms accessible.
• A great place to meet other tourists.
• Usually comes with free Wi-Fi and tips for the area.

Practical Information

If you know what to do, your trip to Morocco will go more smoothly and be more fun. Before you go, read this:

Currency

• Moroccan Dirham (MAD or د.²) is the currency.
• One US dollar is equal to ten Moroccan dirhams.

Services for Exchange:

• You can get them at airports, banks, hotels, and exchange offices.
• There are a lot of ATMs in cities and tourist places.
• Hotels, bars, and big stores all take credit cards.

Bring small bills for souks, cabs, and tips.

Visa Requirements

• Countries That Don’t Need Visas: People from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other places can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
• Needs a Visa: People from other countries should check with the Moroccan office or embassy.
• The passport must be good for at least six months after entry.
• Tourist visas can’t be renewed inside the country; you must leave and return.

Health and Vaccinations

Most tourists don’t have to get any shots.

We suggest:

• The A virus
• Typhoid
• Tetanus (as a boost if needed)
• In the south, mosquito defense is critical in the summer.
• Sunscreen and a hat are must-haves for sun safety.

In towns, pharmacies have a lot of goods and can help with minor illnesses.

It is strongly suggested that travel insurance cover:

• Emergencies in medicine.
• Cancellations of trips.
• Trips to the desert or outdoor sports.

Water and food

• Only drink water from a bottle.
• If you’re not in a fancy place, don’t use ice.
• Eat food that was just made. Hot, clean Moroccan street food is safe to eat.
• If you buy fresh food, peel and wash fruits and veggies.

Time Zone

GMT+1 all year (since there is no daylight saving time right now)

Plugs and electricity

• Types of plugs: C and E (the same as in Europe).
• Bring a plug switch with you if the plugs you use are different.

Business Hours and Weekends

• The regular work hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with lunch breaks.
• Friday is a holy day, so hours will be shorter, especially after prayer at noon.
• Souks and shops stay open late, until 9 or 10 p.m.
• A lot of stores are closed on Sundays.