Explore
Morocco’s vibrant mix of culture, history, and landscapes. From
Marrakech to the Sahara, this essential travel guide covers visas,
safety, costs, and local tips for every traveller.
Country: Morocco
Continent / Region: Africa / North Africa / Maghreb
Capital City: Rabat
Government Type: Constitutional Monarchy
Population: Approx. 37 million
Official Language(s): Arabic, Amazigh (Berber)
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~15% (higher in tourist hubs)
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+1 (varies slightly during Ramadan)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/E – 220V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 190 (Police), 150 (Ambulance), 112 (General)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 3–4 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: March–June and September–November
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: 90 days; free entry
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; Hepatitis A & Typhoid recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Morocco):
Average Daily Costs: £30 / £60 / £140+
Tipping Culture: Common; 5–10% appreciated
Public Transport Options: Taxis, buses, trams (Casablanca/Rabat), trains (ONCF)
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: 5–10 MAD (local bus), 10–20 MAD (tram)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi
Main Climate Type: Mediterranean and desert (Sahara)
Average Temperature: Winter 10–18°C; Summer 25–40°C (hotter inland)
Major Cities: Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, Fes, Tangier, Agadir
Natural Attractions: Sahara Desert dunes, Atlas Mountains, Todra Gorge, Blue Lagoon Oualidia
Popular Destinations: Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, Sahara Desert, Casablanca, Essaouira
Main Religions: Islam (predominantly Sunni)
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Tagine, couscous, pastilla, harira soup, mint tea, msemen, Moroccan pastries
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Jardin Majorelle, Hassan II Mosque, Aït Benhaddou, Koutoubia Mosque, Chefchaouen Medina, Volubilis ruins
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe; tourist areas well-patrolled
Common Scams: Faux guides, inflated taxi prices, shop “helpers”
Health Risks: Heat exposure, food sensitivity, dehydration
Recommended Clinics: International clinics in Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat
Insurance Recommendation: Comprehensive cover recommended
Internet Speed: Good 4G; Wi-Fi widely available in hotels and cafés
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Marrakech Medina, Jardin Majorelle, Sahara Desert camel trek, Fes tanneries, Chefchaouen blue streets, Hassan II Mosque
Unique Experiences: Desert glamping, Berber homestays, Moroccan cooking classes, hammam spa rituals, Atlas Mountain trekking
Hidden Gems: Ouarzazate, Asilah murals, Akchour waterfalls, Paradise Valley, Skoura palm oasis
Popular Areas to Stay: Marrakech Medina, Gueliz (Marrakech), Fes Old City, Casablanca Corniche, Agadir Beachfront
Average Hotel Prices: £20 / £50 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Marrakech Hivernage district, Casablanca Corniche, Agadir Marina
Local Drinks: Mint tea, fresh juices; note alcohol availability varies
Entertainment: Live music lounges, rooftop bars, traditional storytelling, souk evenings
Car Rental: Available; roads vary in quality
Domestic Flights: Frequent between major cities
Trains: Reliable; Casablanca–Tangier high-speed train (Al Boraq)
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Cheap; Petit Taxis widely used; Careem/Bolt in some cities
Best Markets: Marrakech Souks, Fes Medina, Essaouira Medina, Casablanca Central Market
Popular Souvenirs: Argan oil, leather goods, lanterns, rugs, ceramics, spices, tea sets
Local SIM Card Providers: Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–1 p.m. and 3 p.m.–7 p.m.
Tap Water Safety: Not recommended for drinking; use bottled water
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Morocco’s blue city, Chefchaouen, was originally painted blue by Jewish refugees in the 1930s.