Morocco – Destination Guide

Morocco is a captivating blend of colour, culture, and contrast, where ancient medinas, Moorish palaces, mountain villages, and the mighty Sahara all collide in one unforgettable journey. Wander lantern-lit streets, breathe in the aroma of sizzling street food, or simply watch life unfold in lively town squares as locals trade, cook, and catch up over sweet mint tea.

From the vibrant chaos of Marrakech to the blue-washed serenity of Chefchaouen, Morocco is shaped by centuries of Berber, Arab, French, and Spanish influence. Its medinas are time capsules of living history, where artisans weave rugs by hand, bakers sell honey-drizzled pastries, and bustling souks reveal hidden treasures at every turn.

Whether you’re surfing the Atlantic coast, trekking the High Atlas, or stargazing deep in the desert, Morocco’s landscapes, flavours, and people will stay with you long after your trip ends.

🏙️ Regions to Explore

🕌 Marrakech & Central Morocco

A lively blend of tradition, energy, and artistry, Marrakech offers buzzing souks, ornate palaces, and rich history, with the Atlas Mountains only a short escape away.

• Wander the Marrakech medina and its maze-like alleys
• Visit Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs
• Take a day trip to the High Atlas Mountains
• Relax in a traditional hammam

🏜️ Sahara Desert & Southern Oases

Endless sand dunes, nomadic culture, palm-filled oases, and some of Morocco’s most dramatic scenery.

• Ride camels across Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga
• Camp overnight in a luxury desert camp
• Explore Ouarzazate and its film studios
• Visit ancient ksars including Ait Ben Haddou

🎨 Fez & Northern Morocco

The cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, home to world-class craftsmanship and centuries-old traditions.

• Get lost in the Fez el-Bali medina
• Explore leather tanneries and mosaic workshops
• Wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen
• Discover Tangier’s history and coastal charm

🌊 Atlantic Coast

Relaxed surf towns, art-deco cities, and breezy beach escapes line Morocco’s Atlantic shore.

• Surf or unwind in Essaouira
• Visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
• Enjoy seafood in Asilah and El Jadida
• Stay in beachfront resorts or golf in Agadir

🍽️ Must-Try Moroccan Dishes

• Tagine – Slow-cooked stew of meat or vegetables with spices
• Couscous – Steamed semolina served with meat and vegetables
• Harira – A hearty tomato and lentil soup often served during Ramadan
• Pastilla – A savory-sweet pie filled with spiced pigeon or chicken and almonds
• Mint tea – Morocco’s national drink, poured high and served sweet

📅 Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November) offer the best weather for sightseeing and trekking
• Summer (June – August) can be extremely hot, especially inland and in the desert
• Winter (December – February) is mild on the coast but snowy in the mountains and cold in the desert at night

⚙️ Practical Info

• Electricity – 220V, plug types C and E
• Water – Tap water is not recommended for drinking
• Vaccinations – Routine vaccines recommended
• Travel Insurance – Essential for all trips, especially desert or mountain travel
• Safety – Safe for travellers in most tourist areas
• LGBTQIA+ Travellers – Discretion advised due to local laws and conservative norms
• Climate Resilience / Tourist Taxes – Some regions may charge small municipal or environmental fees
• Connectivity – Good in cities; SIMs and eSIMs widely available. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

💬 Language & Etiquette

Language – Arabic and Berber; French widely spoken

Etiquette Tips

• Dress modestly, especially in rural or conservative areas
• Always ask before photographing people
• Bargaining is normal and expected in markets
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Tipping is common and appreciated

📍 Top Experiences

• Sunset camel trek in the Sahara Desert
• Discover the blue alleys of Chefchaouen
• Get pampered in a traditional Moroccan hammam
• Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis
• Shop the artisan souks of Fez and Marrakech
• Hike to waterfalls in the Ourika Valley
• Visit the grand Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca

✈️ Airports, Getting Around & Transport

Main International Airports

• Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) – Morocco’s largest and busiest airport, ideal for long-haul arrivals
• Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) – Convenient for southern Morocco and desert tours
• Fez-Saïss Airport (FEZ) – Gateway to northern Morocco and the imperial city of Fez
• Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport (TNG) – Best for coastal and Mediterranean regions
• Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA) – Good for beach resorts and surf towns

Getting Around

• Trains – Comfortable and efficient for intercity routes like Casablanca–Rabat–Fez–Marrakech
• CTM and Supratours buses – Reliable options for long-distance travel to remote regions
• Grand taxis – Shared long-distance taxis that run between towns
• Petit taxis – Metered urban taxis (check the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand)
• Car rentals – Available in major cities and airports; useful for mountain or desert routes
• Domestic flights – Limited but useful for long-haul internal connections, especially from Casablanca

🛂 Visa & Entry Requirements

• Most travellers from Europe, UK, US, Canada and Australia do not need a visa for short stays
• Visa not required for eligible nationalities for stays up to 90 days
• Standard stays allow up to 90 days within a 180 day period
• Check latest entry details before travel
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival
• Visa information portal: https://www.diplomatie.ma/en/visiting-morocco
• General visa guidance: consult your government’s official travel advice

💰 Money & Costs

• Currency – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
• ATMs are widely available
• Cards accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, cash needed in markets
• Morocco is generally affordable compared to Western Europe
• Budget options widely available for food, transport and activities

🌍 Why Visit Morocco?

Morocco is where Africa meets the Arab world and the Mediterranean flirts with the Sahara. Its landscapes are wildly diverse, its culture is deep and vibrant, and its history is written in ancient kasbahs and tile-covered mosques. Whether you’re shopping for spices in a centuries-old medina or stargazing in the desert, Morocco invites you to slow down, look deeper, and experience the magic woven into every corner.