Travel Guide: Morocco

Welcome to Morocco, a country that truly captivates the soul. Having had the pleasure of visiting this remarkable land multiple times, I can attest that its endless charm makes it difficult to pick just one favorite aspect. I hope that this page can help as your guide to see and learn what makes Morocco so special.

Often referred to as the “Land of the Setting Sun,” reflecting its position as the westernmost country of the Arab world, Morocco is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Here, you can unravel the complicated relationships between Romans and local Berbers or delve into the rise of its grand Imperial Cities – there is so much to explore.

And the food. Moroccan cuisine is one of my absolute favorites, both to cook and to eat. Beyond the mainstream, you’ll discover incredibly diverse tagine dishes that never cease to delight. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, you’ll find something truly delicious at every dinner table.

Morocco’s nature comes to life in spectacular forms, whether it’s stark mountains of rock or rolling dunes of sand. The High Atlas provides excellent climbs for both casual strolls and serious hikers, while further east, the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert offer a spectacular sight and an unforgettable place to camp.

Dive into my detailed articles below to discover how you can experience all these wonders and more on your own adventure!

Destinations

Know Before You Go

Language: Arabic (Official), French, Berber languages. English and Spanish are becoming more prevalent.

Religion: Islam is the dominant religion in Morocco, with over 99% of the population identifying as Muslim. Non-Muslims will not be able to visit mosques, except Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.

Culture and Dress: While there isn’t a strict dress code, especially in tourist areas, it’s generally advisable to dress modestly to show respect for local customs.

Currency and Tipping: The currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). Tipping is customary, but not mandatory: drink (nearest 5 dirhams), meal (5-10%), taxi (round up or add a few dirham).

Credit Cards & ATMs: Accepted and available in a major cities. When bargaining for wares, cash is king.

Health and Vaccines: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry into Morocco for most travelers. Routine and travel vaccinations (hepatitis A/B, typhoid, MMR, tetanus) are recommended.

Safety: Morocco is generally considered a safe country. Violent crime is relatively low, petty theft and scams can be common in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and when using ATMs.

Outlets: Type C and Type E

Illustration of Type C and Type E electrical outlets with corresponding plugs.

Driving: On Right

Drive on the right hand side of the road.

Interior view of Riad Verus in Fes, showcasing intricate Moroccan architecture with ornate lamps, patterned tile floor, and traditional furnishings.

When to Go

Seasons: The best time to visit Morocco is during the shoulder seasons, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes. These periods offer a balance of comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds than summer, and beautiful scenery.

High: June to August. The weather will be very hot and there can be larger crowds. Expect to pay more for flights and lodging since it is peak season. In cities, like Marrakech and Fes. stay hydrated and near the shade in the hot afternoons.

Shoulder:

March to May. Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and ideal conditions for trekking and exploring cities.
September to November. Mild weather, comfortable temperatures for desert treks, and beautiful scenery as the leaves change colors.

Low: December to February. Temperatures will be cooler, especially in the north and mountainous regions, and expect more rainfall. The south remains more mild. There will be fewer crowds and prices should be lower, making it a great option for budget travel.