Morocco Travel Guide

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Morocco is a country that offers a unique and fascinating blend of Middle Eastern and African cultures. From the towering dunes of the Sahara and the jagged peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the bustling souks of Marrakech and the quaint charm of Essaouira, Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences.

This travel guide will provide an overview of all that Morocco has to offer, from the wide range of attractions and activities to the incredible cuisine and culture:

Overview of Morocco

Morocco is a beautiful North African country on the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It shares a border with Western Sahara to the south, Algeria to the east, and Spain by sea across the Strait of Gibraltar in Europe. An incredibly diverse and richly cultured destination, Morocco is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, deserts, cities, historic ruins, and bazaars. Visitors can explore its colorful Berber villages and bustling medinas (old towns), enjoy beach holidays along its coasts, or embark on adventurous excursions to experience desert life. Home to friendly locals and many culinary delights like couscous or tagine pot dishes, Morocco offers an unforgettable travel experience.

Due to its geographical location at the crossroads of two continents – Europe and Africa –, visitors can expect various cultures that add charm to their journey in this amazing destination. Of course, the French will get you around the largest cities like Marrakesh or Casablanca. Still, travelers are encouraged to pick up some basic Arabic phrases, which will come in handy while interacting with local Moroccans in smaller cities or rural areas.

Getting around Morocco can be done efficiently via one of three major airports; Mohammed V International Airport near Casablanca; Menara Airport near Marrakesh; Al Massira Aiport near Agadir. Car rentals are convenient for leisure travelers looking for opportunities off the beaten path, while hop-on hop-off buses are a great way to get around larger cities without breaking your budget. Adventure seekers should consider taking advantage of the tour packages offered by local operators to venture safely into remote regions away from major cities, which may require specific know-how and local contacts regarding logistics like transportation or lodging options.

Essential Travel Information

Visiting Morocco is a fantastic opportunity to experience one of the world’s most vibrant cultures. There are countless things to see, do, and explore in the country, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. So whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in Morocco.

Before you start your travels in Morocco, it is essential to ensure you have all the necessary travel information. This guide will provide a range of information for anyone planning to travel to Morocco, from visas and entry requirements to currency and climate.

  • Visa Requirements: All visitors entering Morocco must have a valid passport and a visa (if applicable). For most visitors from countries outside Africa, a visa must be obtained before departure from their home country. For those entering by land or sea, visas may be issued upon arrival at border control points.
  • Entry Requirements: All visitors entering Morocco must hold an onward / return ticket and sufficient funds to stay in the country. Visitors must also provide two recent passport photographs at the point of entry.
  • Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency, although some products/services may still be priced in US dollars or Euros. Credit cards may be accepted in major cities, but cash should always be kept on hand as smaller shops and markets may only accept cash payments.
  • Climate: The climate of Morocco varies greatly throughout the year due to its geographical location and different terrains across its landscape partitioned between the Atlantic Ocean coastline and Mediterranean Sea coastlines together with arid semidesert across the center continent geographically partitioned by the high Atlas Mountains. Northern parts get cold during winter, while the south gets warmer quite frequently, especially around Nilf desert areas. Rainfalls occur mainly during the winter, from late fall until mid-spring.

Transportation

Transportation in Morocco is a mix between modern and centuries-old. There are several options for getting around the country, ranging from high-speed trains to old-fashioned camels. You can find a bus, car rental, train, ferry, air, and camel transportation in Morocco.

In this section, we’ll discuss the different transportation options available in the country:

  • Bus
  • Car Rental
  • Train
  • Ferry
  • Air
  • Camel

Getting Around by Air

Travelers to Morocco can make use of the many airports throughout the country. There are over ten international airports in cities such as Marrakech, Tangier, and Casablanca, with most North American travelers flying into the Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca.

The primary national carrier is Royal Air Maroc (RAM), which offers internal routes from most major cities and several smaller points of entry and destinations.

Air travel within Morocco is quite affordable, and domestic tickets cost between 40-60 USD for one-way trips between cities such as Marrakech to Fez or Tangier to Meknes. It is usually possible to buy same-day tickets or make reservations up to two weeks in advance; however, it is recommended that you plan and make advanced bookings whenever possible, especially during busy holiday periods.

Other carriers, such as Jet4You, also offer flights within Morocco, but they tend to be slightly more expensive than RAM, although they may offer more flight options with different airports.

Getting Around by Train

Train travel in Morocco is a convenient, affordable, and efficient way of getting around the country. Trains offer frequent services to all the main cities, with departures from Marrakech at least seven times a day. While the most popular route is Marrakesh to Tangier, several other lines crisscross the country from large urban centers like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes.

The majority of train services offered in Morocco are commuter trains called CTM, combining regular stops with long-distance routes. The main line is called Al Boraq, previously known as the ONCF brand – which translates to ‘train of vision.’ All CTM trains have free Wi-Fi onboard, which is great for those who need or want to stay connected during their journey.

For international routes, most travelers will opt for Eurostar or TGV – they offer speed and comfort on their direct services between Paris, London, and Germany, among other European destinations. These high-speed trains offer state-of-the-art equipment with power sockets and Wi-Fi connection onboard, providing comfortable accommodation for passengers on these cross-border journeys. For these overseas trips, tickets can be purchased online and at local railway stations.

Safety regulations in Morocco state that all travelers must buy tickets before boarding any train – these can be purchased either online or from station ticket kiosks before your departure date – chipped tickets allow travelers access to all regional lines across Morocco without having to buy more tickets each time you switch destinations -enhancing your overall experience by ensuring you’ll reach your destination quickly without any delays!

Getting Around by Bus

Taking a bus is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable way to get around Morocco. Morocco’s public bus system is extensive, serving most cities and towns. Bus journeys are usually very comfortable and sometimes faster than other transport methods, given that toll roads are used for some routes. Many companies also offer private and luxury buses with air conditioning and extra space for luggage.

Bus tickets can be purchased from the station or in advance from travel agents, hotels, and tour operators, depending on the route chosen. If you’re unsure about the best route to take or which company is the most reliable, it’s best to talk to your hotel reception staff or travel agent, who’ll be able to provide advice. Also, ensure that your journey goes as smoothly as possible and arrive earlier if traveling in peak times such as holidays or weekends, as these services tend to get very busy quickly.

There are several types of buses:

  • Long-distance buses (usually with air-con);
  • Regional buses (often smaller);
  • Groupe taxis (shared taxis between towns);
  • Petite taxies;
  • Intercity tourist buses;
  • Supérieurs or luxe (luxury coaches often used by tour companies).

It’s important to know what type of vehicle you will be traveling on so that you can pack appropriately light for maximum comfort on longer journeys.

In general, there is no need to buy tickets in advance unless your journey involves crossing multiple provinces but make sure you have enough small changes as ticket prices are usually less than 20 MAD ($2). It’s polite to tip your driver one MAD when getting off at their destination, too – thank them in Arabic “shukran” if you know any!

Getting Around by Car

Traveling by car is a great way to explore Morocco. The roads in the country are well-maintained, and there is a good network of highways around major cities. Therefore, you will likely find driving in Morocco fairly easy and can help you conveniently explore the country’s many destinations.

If you plan to travel by car, you may want to rent a vehicle or hire a driver. Several companies offer car rental services throughout Morocco, so choosing one that will provide high-quality services and vehicles is important. Driving should be done with caution, especially at night and in rural areas where roads may not be well-illuminated or have dangerous potholes or animals walking across them.

When renting a car, it’s important to consider the type of vehicle that you need for your travels. Depending on the size of your group, you might opt for either an economy vehicle, such as a small sedan or hatchback, or an SUV with better seating capacity for exploring off-road routes such as desert trails or mountain passes. It’s also worth noting that many car rental companies require drivers to be over 25 years old and have held their license for more than five years. Be sure to check with your chosen provider beforehand so that you can make sure that everyone who will be driving meets their requirements.

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Morocco vary from 5-star hotels to cozy beach-side bungalows, so there is something to suit any budget and taste. Hotels in Morocco range from rustic to modern luxury, and many offer spas, pools, and excellent restaurants.

You can also find plenty of apartments and villas for rent. Bed and breakfasts are available for a unique experience, and for those looking for a budget-friendly option, there are hostels and camping grounds.

Hotels

Hotels in Morocco vary greatly in terms of quality and price, but they are generally on par with international hotel standards. Most large cities have several mid-priced accommodation options which offer comfortable amenities, modern furnishings, and easy access to public transportation.

In addition, most major tourist destinations across the country provide luxury hotels with a wide range of amenities, such as spas and swimming pools. Moreover, hotels often feature modest restaurants offering traditional cuisine and catering to travelers who want to sample local fare without venturing far from the property.

Budget travelers will find numerous hostels with shared facilities or basic guestrooms offering simple beds and amenities. However, when traveling in more rural locations, travelers may find that lodging is limited to smaller guesthouses or simple homes equipped for short-term vacationers.

Hostels

Those looking for a budget-friendly place to stay can find hostels throughout Morocco. These places offer dorms and private rooms, usually with shared bathrooms. In addition, hostels often have a common area, shared kitchen, and activities planned for guests.

Most hostels in Morocco include all bedding, 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi access, air conditioning in the summer months, hot showers, and often provide breakfast at their rates. Dorms are between 4 – 12 beds per room and sometimes offer female-only dormitories. Private rooms may have up to 3 beds, but bunk beds are the norm; commonplace amenities such as an en suite bathroom or TV may not be available.

Safety is always a priority when choosing accommodation, so researching reviews and ratings before booking a hostel is important when traveling to Morocco. Always bring your padlock or purchase one upon arrival at the hostel if they don’t provide you with one, and remember – bring along extra toiletries!

Airbnb

Airbnb is a popular accommodation option in Morocco. You can find plenty of properties available for rental all over the country through the website and app. With a wide variety of options, you have the perfect chance to make your stay a truly unique experience.

Most Airbnb hosts in Morocco are friendly and helpful but bear in mind that it’s always advisable to check local restrictions, availability, and prices before committing to booking a property. In addition, Airbnb properties come with their unique set of rules, so read through them carefully before booking.

When traveling in Morocco, safety should always be your top priority. When looking for accommodation, look for properties with good reviews from other guests and make sure that the hosts are verified. This way, you know that you’re staying in an area where you can feel safe and secure.

Finally, remember that not all Airbnbs offer the same features:

  • some will include ensuite bathrooms or even pools;
  • others will have basic amenities only;
  • while some may provide access to shared facilities with other guests living on-site.

Check these details before committing to any property to know what accommodations to expect during your stay!

Attractions

Morocco is a wonderful country filled with cultural experiences and endless attractions. From the Roman ruins of Volubilis to the largest souk in Africa, there are plenty of opportunities for travelers to explore and experience the culture. Morocco also has several stunning beaches, lush valleys, and grand mountains. So whether you’re looking for culture, nature, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in Morocco!

Historical Sites

Morocco is a fascinating country steeped in a rich cultural and historical heritage. From the ancient ruins of Volubilis to the coastal Hassan II Mosque, there are plenty of captivating attractions in this North African nation. Here is an overview of Morocco’s most notable historical sites you can visit on your next adventure.

  • Marrakech: Marrakech’s “Red City” is a vibrant gateway to some of Morocco’s most stunning architectural gems. The Koutoubia Mosque, Menara Gardens, and bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square are all iconic attractions here, as are Bahia Palace and Dar Si Said Museum.
  • Fes: This bustling city is home to some impressive sites, including Al-Karaouine Mosque — said to be the oldest university in the world — and Medersa Bou Inania school for higher education. There are also some gorgeous souks (markets) where you can shop for souvenirs or enjoy watching traditional craftsmen at work.
  • Volubilis: North Africa’s best-preserved Roman ruins lie just outside Meknes and span over 2,500 years of history. Stroll through crumbling streets that once bustled with citizens, admire ancient mosaics featuring detailed artwork, and gaze up at remaining arches that hint at the glory days of the city’s past empire.
  • Chefchaouen: Known as “the blue city,” Chefchaouen has retained its cultural and architectural heritage since it was founded in 1471 by Moorish exiles from Spain’s Jewish population. Wander around town admiring its winding alleys decorated with painted stalls selling everything from carpets to handmade jewelry, as well as its breathtaking sunset vantage points that seem suspended between two worlds — time stands still here centuries ago when Jewish refugees arrived after being banished from Spain.

Natural Wonders

Morocco’s abundant natural wonders capture the imagination and make for incredible sightseeing experiences. From remote mountain villages to lush valleys, stunning seascapes to desert stars, there is something for everyone. Below are a few of the natural attractions Morocco offers visitors:

  • Atlas Mountains: Home to some of North Africa’s highest peaks and ancient Berber villages, these towering mountains stretch across much of Morocco and offer a range of rugged terrain for experienced hikers. The highest point is Jbel Toubkal at 4,167 meters, making it the highest peak in North Africa.
  • Sahara Desert: The largest desert in the world, sprawled across 11 countries – including Morocco – stretches as far as the eye can see with its mesmerizing landscape that changes with temperature and wind patterns. Visitors can experience this otherworldly topography by crossing deep dunes in a 4×4 vehicle or taking an exhilarating camel ride.
  • Valley of Roses: This picturesque valley is famed for its rose plantations, which multiply especially during May when hundreds of thousands of rosebushes blossom and fill the air with a pleasant fragrance. The vibrant scent has attracted perfumers from all over the world who come here looking for roses to use in their products.
  • Jamaa El Fna Square: Located adjacent to Marrakech’s old city walls, this renowned square has witnessed many great historical moments in Moroccan history since its first establishment about 1,000 years ago. Every evening Jamaa el Fna transforms into an enormous stage where musicians, storytellers, and comedians entertain locals and tourists under colorful lights until sunrise.

Cultural Experiences

Cultural experiences can be a great way to learn more about a destination. Whether you are looking for an interactive, hands-on experience or a more traditional educational approach, there is something to excite everyone. From museums to galleries and historical sites, numerous places provide insight into the history and culture of a place.

Visiting ancient ruins or monuments is a popular cultural experience for those interested in history and anthropology. Discovering the stories connected to these places can provide a unique perspective on the culture that once lived here. Other attractions, such as zoos, botanical gardens, and aquariums, are perfect for families looking for a full-day outing.

Local markets are also often a great source of both entertainment and cultural insight—exploring the various spices, dairy products, textiles, and souvenirs allows visitors an engaging way to interact with regional traditions without having to leave their destination! In addition, many cities have city tours featuring famous landmarks and traditional neighborhoods—both highlight local life.

These attractions offer fun ways to explore new destinations and your hometown in detail – immersing yourself in cultures around the world!

Food & Drink

A trip to Morocco would not be complete without sampling the delicious and unique cuisine. With flavors from Africa and Europe, you can enjoy a variety of dishes that will make your taste buds sing. From savory tagines to sweet baklava, Morocco has something to satisfy every foodie.

Let’s dive into the amazing food and drink Morocco has to offer:

Traditional Dishes

Morocco is blessed with various dishes that feature its culinary traditions, including plenty of historical and cultural influences. Plentiful fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices make almost every traditional Moroccan dish incredibly flavorful. From savory lamb tagines to delicately spiced couscous, your taste buds will be delighted when you dine in Morocco.

Here are some of the must-try traditional dishes:

  • Maqueque: This dish is a fragrant, spicy chicken-vegetable stew traditionally made in an earthenware pot called a ‘Tagine.’
  • Couscous: Perhaps the most popular traditional dish among tourists, this steamed semolina with vegetables and/or meat is served all over Morocco.
  • Tfaya: Traditionally made with stewed lamb cooked in onions and sweetened by raisins and other dried fruits, tfaya also makes for a delicious vegetarian dish when prepared without meat.
  • Mechoui: This whole roasted sheep or lamb on a spit can often be found at street barbecues throughout the country; it’s usually served with lemon or spicy harissa sauce and an array of Moroccan salads.
  • Harira Soup: This thick tomato soup contains either chunks of lamb or chicken and is seasoned with lentils, herbs, and spices like turmeric and cumin. It’s typically served with dates to break the Ramadan fast during Ramadan.
  • Pastilla / Bastilla: A stick-to-your-ribs favorite featuring minced poultry or fish blended in layers of crunchy pastry sheets, topped off with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and fresh coriander leaves — an incredibly tasty combination.

Local Cuisine

Morocco has a rich and flavorful cuisine, heavily influenced by a long history of cultural interaction. Many restaurants in Morocco feature North African staples like couscous, tagines, breads, and dates, as well as Mediterranean favorites like roasted vegetables, grilled meats, fresh grilled fish, and delicate pastries.

Each region of the country offers its distinct flavor palates – from sweet and herbaceous in the north to spicy chili pastes in the south. So while you can find all manner of international favorites throughout the country (American-style steakhouses are popular among ex-pats!), you’ll likely want to check out some local haunts for an authentic look at traditional Moroccan fare.

Some local favorites include harira (a thick soup of lentils and chickpeas), mloukhia (a stew made with mallow leaves), mechoui (roasted lamb), and pastilla (a meat-filled pie). Don’t be afraid to try some salads and seafood – most Atlantic seafood is caught fresh each day off the coast of Morocco! If you’re looking for dessert, don’t miss baklava or msemsen (traditional pancakes flavored with cinnamon syrup).

Be sure to sample a cup of sweet mint tea: it’s served on nearly every corner in Morocco and is perfect for cooling down during hot afternoons!

Restaurants & Cafes

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, traditional Moroccan fare on the go, or an exotic cocktail to jumpstart your evening in Morocco, the country has something to offer everyone.

Popular restaurants range from simple shawarma stands to elaborate royal palace-style spas and hammams. Local favorites such as couscous, tagines, and pastilla are easy to find at most eateries in the major cities of Marrakesh and Casablanca. Popular restaurants include Torchawi Tiraz (Tagine Restaurant), Qued Rija (Moroccan Tagine Restaurant), El Centro (Spanish Fusion Restaurant), Nafoura (Moroccan Seafood Grill), and Le Horno de la Omelette (American Diner). For those with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of dessert shops anywhere, from pastry shops in Marrakech’s old city to scoop ice cream bars with flavors like orange flower sherbet and date caramel.

Once you become more familiar with where to get your food, an impressive selection of cafes will give you options for a quick bite or a chance to relax over drinks for hours. Many cafes serve traditional mint tea along with nargili water pipes – also known as hookah – which comes in many flavors, from apple melon mint and classic strawberry peach – allowing visitors to enjoy their presence. At the same time, they smoke flavored tobacco while chatting with friends. Café des Epices, Café Clock, M’Rabiha Café Theater, and Cafe Chkouane are some of the top-rated cafes in the country known for offering freshly brewed coffee and Mediterranean cuisine.

Whether it comes from the kitchen or is served straight off the street cart, Morocco has diverse culinary options worth trying out during your visit!

Shopping

Morocco is a vibrant and colorful country with various shopping experiences. From traditional markets to modern malls, you can find various items to buy in Morocco. So whether you’re looking for handmade leather goods, unique spices, or a souvenir to remember your trip, Morocco has something for everyone.

Let’s take a look at some of the best places to shop in the country:

Souks & Markets

Morocco offers a variety of shopping options, from modern malls, to art galleries, to bustling markets and traditional souks. Souks and markets throughout Morocco are great places to shop for souvenirs and gifts, with many handmade items. Vendors are very friendly and can discuss in English sufficiently, as selling is integral to their life. When shopping in these areas, bargaining is expected as prices can be marked up high initially due to travelers unaware of the true value.

Souks & Markets: Souks are local bazaars in the old cities that typically feature clothing stalls, pottery vendors, and street performers, among others. Bargaining is usually the norm when purchasing items in these areas. On the other hand, markets offer an opportunity for tourists and locals alike to get their hands on products from all over the country at affordable prices. Lock up any valuable items you have before visiting a large market, as this can provide ease of mind.

Shopping Centres

Shopping in Morocco is an exciting experience. Shopping centers and large cities offer various options for the shopper looking for traditional, modern, and exotic products.

For those looking for a modern shopping experience, Moroccan cities such as Casablanca or Rabat provide good quality shopping centers, usually well stocked with international brands. You can find anything from clothes to electronics and luxury goods such as jewelry and furs. For a more affordable shopping experience, Marrakech is also a great option. It offers many souks (traditional markets) where you can buy almost anything from spices and traditional fabrics to souvenirs at much better prices than shopping malls.

Some of the most famous Moroccan mall destinations are:

  • Anfa Place in Casablanca
  • Morocco Mall in Casablanca
  • Twin Center in Rabat
  • Le Dome Mall in Marrakesh
  • Ain Harrouda Mall in El Jadida.

With their wide selection of food outlets, fashion stores, and amusement activities to enjoy during your trip, it’s easy to turn these places into memorable experiences!

Local Crafts & Souvenirs

When traveling to Morocco, it’s essential to take home some local crafts or souvenirs as a reminder of your trip. Shopping is part of the experience in this North African country, with traditional arts and crafts found throughout most regions.

In major cities such as Marrakesh, you will find teacups and saucers made from glazed pottery. These pieces feature intricate designs representing centuries-old traditions. You can also pick up incense burners and lamps in the shape of camels or other animals, along with beautiful hand-painted tiles that make great wall art. If you’re looking for jewelry, you can find simple pieces with colorful beads and coins and more ornate pendants and necklaces crafted from sterling silver.

In the Berber communities of Southern Morocco, workshops often specialize in handwoven carpets. These pieces use natural materials like wool taken from sheep living in nearby villages, along with colored dyes from vegetable sources, including indigo (blue), henna (orange), saffron (yellow), and madder (red) root. For something truly unique, try purchasing one of these beautiful Berber rugs to help support local artisans.

For those interested in fashion items, look out for clothing inspired by traditional Moroccan styles, including:

  • Caftans come in rich fabrics like silk or velvet, featuring embroidered decorations around the sleeves and neckline.
  • Djellabas crafted from thin cotton cloth are also very popular and come in bright colors ideal for warm climates, such as pink, red and green.
  • Finally, don’t forget traditional Babouche slippers, usually adorned with small silver bells!

No matter what craft or souvenir you’re seeking in Morocco—from leather goods to pottery—it’s sure to be found if you explore the markets!

Safety & Security

Safety and security should be a top priority when planning a trip to Morocco. The country is generally safe, with a low crime rate; however, tourists should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

This article will cover the general safety and security of the country, precautions to take while traveling, and other useful information related to safety and security in Morocco.

Travel Insurance

It is always a good idea to purchase travel insurance before departing on any journey. Travel insurance protects travelers from unexpected illnesses, accidents, and luggage loss when traveling, allowing you peace of mind. Cover often includes:

  • Emergency medical expenses.
  • Baggage loss or delay.
  • Cancellation of flights or accommodations due to unforeseen circumstances.

Morocco is an especially safe country for travelers; however, it is important to practice basic safety measures when exploring unfamiliar areas and forgo visiting isolated areas at night.

Before choosing a policy, consider the advantages and disadvantages and pay attention to certain details, such as the coverage amount per item (baggage), limits on cash about theft/robbery, and medical evacuation cost caps. It is always best practice to review all documents before purchase to ensure you know the coverage benefits of each plan. Additionally, be sure that your policy includes any specific activities or services provided by your chosen tour provider, such as outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, rafting).

Once you have selected a plan that meets your needs, it is highly recommended that the insurance contract be thoroughly read before signing to understand what treatments are covered and which countries may require advance payment of health care expenses if a claim needs to be filed during your stay abroad.

Local Laws & Customs

When visiting Morocco, travelers should be respectful of local laws and customs. Respect Islamic values, modesty in dress and behavior, punctuality, and discretion, especially when in the company of strangers.

When traveling by car, a valid driving permit is mandatory. It is illegal to talk on a cell phone while driving, and children are not allowed to sit in upfront unless they wear seatbelts. Seatbelts must be worn for all passengers, or there will be legal consequences for failure to comply with the law. In addition, traffic tickets must be paid on the spot.

Public intoxication is seen as disgraceful and can bring harsh penalties from both police and locals alike, so consuming alcohol in public places where it is prohibited should be avoided – fines or detention can result in transgressions. Likewise, possessing drugs or other controlled substances may lead to imprisonment, even if only a small quantity is found.

Fundamental Muslim beliefs are part of the fabric of Moroccan society: respect for such shall be paramount when planning travel activities within Morocco. Modesty in dress and behavior is essential (especially when visiting religious sites). Respect Islamic standards concerning yourself and others around you, as cultural norms may differ significantly from those associated with western societies. States of undress that wouldn’t warrant occasion elsewhere can offend here; also have consideration for individuals who do not accept touch as part of normal social conduct between unrelated people – notable approaches that may exist include:

  • avoid initiating contact
  • avert eyes downwards
  • instead, opt towards shaking hands or simulating applying their traditional greeting kiss on the elbows (Males).

Emergency Services

Morocco has a well-developed infrastructure for emergency services. So if you experience any emergency, whether medical, security-related, or otherwise, have no fear—you can easily access help from the country’s many trained professionals.

  • Police: To contact the police in Morocco, dial 1101.
  • Fire and Rescue Services: To reach the local fire department/rescue services in Morocco, dial 100 or 280 20 333 35.
  • Medical Services: In the case of a medical emergency, contact one of Morocco’s many hospitals and health care facilities. You can call 14 to reach an ambulance service, 17 to contact civil protection services (civil defense), or 15 to ask for an ambulance and EMA (Emergency Medical Assistance) personnel.

In some cases, calling both 14 and 15 will speed up response times because the two agencies communicate with each other while they are on their way. Before traveling to Morocco, it is recommended that you obtain medical insurance as it may be difficult to find if needed in every area you visit throughout your time there.

Note: It is recommended that visitors who do not speak fluent French or Arabic carry all pertinent numbers written down and available in case of any kind of emergency.