Tips and useful information about Morocco
Whether you are travelling for leisure or business, Morocco is certainly one of the best travel destinations around the world.
It is important to have some useful information about this fascinating country before preparing your travel, that’s why we will give you in this section some tips concerning the daily life in Morocco, weather, formalities, the currency used…
Weather in Morocco
Morocco is a land of contrasts. Bathed to the north by the waters of the Mediterranean, to the west by those of the Atlantic Ocean, it is also criss-crossed by the Rif and Atlas Mountains and is subject to all sorts of climatic influences.
The coastal regions are popular with the sun. Throughout the year, it pours its rays and you can enjoy its benefits whatever the season. Thus, Agadir, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and main seaside resort of the country, offers to the amateurs of idleness 300 days of annual sunshine, mild temperatures and light trade winds. Further north, Taghazout, Mogador and Magazan are also worth the detour.
A little further inland, the climate abandons the Mediterranean mildness and becomes continental. The reliefs are more drawn and present sumptuous panoramas. It is the land of wide open spaces, the land of adventurers who can go trekking and hiking in all seasons.
In the south, the country opens onto the immensity of the Sahara. It is in spring and autumn that one must venture there. In the middle of the sands, the sun shines and reflects on the dunes. These desert expanses exude a sense of unreality. Ride a camel and engage yourself in one of the most beautiful paintings ever composed by nature.
Visa and passport
Do I need a visa to enter Morocco? What are the passport requirements? Get some essential information to make traveling easier.
The need for a visa depends on your nationality. For all nationalities, the maximum duration of the tourist trip is 90 days. A request for an extension can be made at the nearest police station to stay an additional 90 days.
For foreign nationals arriving in Morocco as part of an organized trip, a valid passport must cover at least the duration of the stay in Morocco.
To avoid any inconvenience upon arrival in Morocco, make sure you have a valid passport.
Currency & Payment
The official currency unit of Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (DH) which is abbreviate (MAD).
Payment by Cash
In Morocco you can pay either in euros, sterling pound, dollars or in Moroccan Dirham, exchange offices are available in airports, in some hotels, in banks, and in all tourist squares. The counters may require your passport for the transaction.
Payment by credit cards
ATM bank machines are widespread throughout Morocco. International credit cards Visa or MasterCards are accepted by most hotels, restaurants, shops and petrol stations.
Local Languages
Visiting a country, is also learning a new language.
Morocco has two official languages, Arabic and Amazigh. French is also spoken and understood by almost all Moroccans.
Spanish is widely spoken in the northern and southern regions of Morocco.
The Amazigh language, is the common heritage of all Moroccans.
Classical or literary Arabic is only used in administrative contexts. Darija (Moroccan dialect) is the oral language used in Morocco.
Health Assistance
If you experience serious health problems during your trip, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor. Moroccan pharmacies are often well stocked and the doctors are well trained.
In case of a medical emergency, please call the single national toll-free number “141”
Morocco is a privileged destination for medical tourism. Having a considerable worldclass know-how, the medical staff apply very competitive rates of care which can reach up to 50% compared to other countries.
Phone Calls
To make calls from your mobile phone number, don’t forget to contract the “International” option with your telephone operator.
The network is generally well covered in Morocco.
It is also possible to buy a Moroccan SIM card to use on your mobile phone during your holidays. You can find SIM cards in airports and kiosks.
Internet Connection
Generally, all airports, hotels, restaurants and coffee shops in Morocco offer free internet WI-FI connection.
** Source: Moroccan National Tourist Office