Morocco

Overview

Visa & Entry

European Citizens and U.S. passport holders do not require a visa to enter Morocco if staying less than 90 days for touristic purpose.

Health

Immunizations are NOT currently required for travel to Morocco. However, you may wish to consult your personal physician or local public health authorities as to their suggestions on other health concerns or requirements

Weather

Morocco generally has a sub-tropical and diverse climate depending on the region and season. October-December and March-May are Morocco’s best seasons, when temperatures average in the low 70s F/24 C. January and February can be cool and rainy. Because of the generally moderate or warm climate, most of the hotels do not have central heating. During summer, the average temperature in Marrakesh and Fez is around the 100’s; while the coastal cities of Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier have an average temperature in the low 80s. South of the Atlas Mountains, temperatures increase greatly

Dressing

The heat in Morocco can be oppressive, with temperatures often cracking the 30°C mark by May and climbing up to 40°C in July and August. While linen and cotton are good options for the heat, cotton does not dry well in high humidity. Athletic wear designed to absorb sweat and stay dry is a better option for humid days. Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate attire in Morocco.
Evenings can be cooler than you might expect in late spring, autumn and winter. Be sure to pack a jacket or fleece for chillier evenings if you plan to travel during these periods.
Good quality, comfortable footwear is essential for travel in Morocco, even if you don’t plan to do any hiking. Paths can be uneven, dusty and covered in debris, so worn-in walking shoes with good grip are recommended

Credit Cards & Money

The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham. Hotels and some stores accept credit cards (Visa and Master Card only), however, credit card transactions are subject to 3% surcharge. For “street shopping” you will need local currency for most transactions (USD is only sometimes accepted). Hotels, banks and foreign exchange bureaus will be able to exchange cash to local currency. We highly recommend that you bring along crisp, new bills, because old, torn, or crumpled bills may not be accepted. For small purchases, we recommend that you use the ATM machines to get cash in local currency so that you can avoid using your credit card in unknown shops where there is a higher risk of having your credit card numbers “borrowed” for unauthorized purchases. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted. We recommend that you use cash or credit card

Shopping

You will have ample opportunity during your visit to Morocco to shop for souvenirs, including artwork, handicrafts and even jewelry. If you purchase such items, do so with the understanding that these items may not have the same high value you were led to believe. And you may be unable to return these items later for a refund. A good rule of thumb when shopping abroad is to choose items that you love and that will remind you of the destination. If you want to shop for high value items, better do so from a trusted merchant at home unless the pleasure of the happy memory of your trip will keep you from regretting your purchase.
Bargaining is a way of life in Morocco. If you want to purchase something, whether in a shop or a souk (or bazaar) and you think the price you’ve been quoted is too high, thank the vendor and walk away. Generally, he/she will come after you with a lower price. It is usually considered good bargaining policy to offer half the asking price, and negotiate

Electricity & Power

220 volts. Plugs C & E. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit

Cell Phones & Internet

Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Check in google world connections before

Photography

Cameras and video recorders are permitted, and photography is generally permitted everywhere except at airports and military installations. Memory cards for digital cameras will be available in major cities

For your info

Morocco is similar in size as the state of California.
The Karaouine mosque in Fez is the oldest university in the world that is still in operation.
The world's original species of mountain sheep, the Mouflon, can be found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco.
The national drink of Morocco is tea, with Moroccan Mint Tea as a top favorite!
During meals, it is considered impolite to handle food with the left hand and to say no to meat when offered.
Casablanca, the film named after the Moroccan city, won the Academy Award for Best Motion Picture in 1942 and is considered one of the best films of all time.