Morocco Travel Guide

Simple, honest answers from our local team to help you prepare your trip to Morocco. If you have a question that is not here, send us a message on WhatsApp.

Do I Need a Visa for Morocco?

Travelers from many countries, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Australia, can visit Morocco without a visa for up to 90 days as tourists. Other nationalities may need a visa or an e-visa before they travel.

• Your passport must be valid for your whole stay. We recommend at least 6 months of validity.
• You get an entry stamp at the airport or port when you arrive.
• Rules can change, so always check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country before you book your flights.

Money, Cards & Tipping

The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). You usually cannot buy dirhams before your trip, so most travelers change money or use an ATM when they arrive.

• ATMs are easy to find in cities and at airports. In small villages and in the desert there are few or none, so take cash before you leave the city.
• Cards are accepted in most hotels and bigger restaurants and shops. In the souks, small cafés and villages, cash is king.
• Change money at banks, official exchange offices or the airport, and keep your receipts.
• Tipping is part of the culture: around 10% in restaurants, small change for porters and helpers, and a tip for your guides and driver if you are happy with their service.

What to Wear in Morocco

Morocco is a Muslim country, but it is relaxed with visitors. Light, comfortable clothes that cover your shoulders and knees are the best choice in the medinas and villages, for both women and men.

• A light scarf is useful against the sun and the dust, and to visit religious sites.
• Bring layers: days can be hot, but nights in the desert and the mountains are cold, especially from November to March.
• Comfortable walking shoes for the medinas, and sandals for the dunes.
• Swimwear is fine at hotel pools and on the beach.

Moroccan Food: Dishes to Try

Food is one of the best parts of a trip to Morocco. Here are the dishes we always tell our guests to try:

• Tagine: slow-cooked meat or vegetables in the famous clay pot, with prunes, olives or preserved lemon.
• Couscous: the traditional Friday family meal, with vegetables and meat.
• Pastilla: a sweet and salty pie, a specialty of Fes.
• Harira: a rich tomato and lentil soup.
• Tanjia: the slow-cooked meat of Marrakech.
• Medfouna: the “Berber pizza” of the Merzouga region.
• Mint tea: the sign of welcome in every home.

Sahara Desert Packing List

For your night in the desert camp, leave your big suitcase in the vehicle and take a small bag with you on the camel.

• A warm layer or fleece for the night
• A scarf or cheche (turban) against the sun and the sand
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
• A small torch or headlamp
• A power bank for your phone
• Wet wipes, toothbrush and your medicines
• Closed shoes or sandals for the dunes

Moroccan Culture & Etiquette

Moroccans are famous for their hospitality. A few simple habits will make your trip even better:

• Say “Salam alaykum” (peace be upon you) to greet people. They will be happy you tried.
• Ask before you take photos of people, and respect a “no”.
• Most mosques are open only to Muslims. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is the main one that visitors can enter, on a guided visit.
• Haggling is normal in the souks. Stay friendly, smile, and only start if you really want to buy.
• During Ramadan, many people fast during the day. Avoid eating and drinking in public in small towns, out of respect.

This guide gives general advice from our local team. Entry rules and prices can change, so check official sources before you travel.