This is the basic information you need to know before a trip to Morocco
Time: Local time is GMT.
Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. European two-pin round plugs are standard.
Currency: The unit of currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), which is divided into 100 centimes. ATMs are available in the larger towns, but do read our ATM WARNING;
Cash can be exchanged at banks or official bureaux de changes, which are also widespread in major towns. Dirhams cannot be obtained or exchanged outside Morocco and receipts must be retained as proof of legal currency exchange, as well as in order to re-exchange money when departing. Major credit cards are accepted in the larger shops, hotels and restaurants. Travellers cheques can be used in tourist areas, but are not prevalent; they are best taken in Euros or Pounds Stirling.
Currency Exchange Rates: please check your exchange rates here: EXCHANGE
Language: Arabic is the official language, but Berber, French and Spanish are also spoken. English is generally understood in the tourist areas, but French is the more common.
Currency Exchange Rates: please check your exchange rates here: EXCHANGE
Language: Arabic is the official language, but Berber, French and Spanish are also spoken. English is generally understood in the tourist areas, but French is the more common.
Visas : For New Zealanders and Australians a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.
For United States citizens, a passport, but no visa for a stay of up to three months.
For UK nationals a passport, but no visa for a stay of up to three months, providing the passport is endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas) or British Subject, with the right of abode in the U.K. In all other cases a visa is required.
For Canadians: Canadian citizens require a passport, but no visa for a stay of up to three months.
For South Africans a passport and note you must apply for a visa in South Africa, for travel to Morocco.
For Irish nationals, a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.
Proof of sufficient funds are required for visa and entry approval. An extension of six months is available for visa-exempt nationals.
Health: Health insurance should be taken out before you leave your home country. No vaccinations are required to enter Morocco. It is advisable to drink bottled water and be selective in the case of street food. Often street food is safer than some tourist restaurants. Medical facilities are good in all major towns.
For Canadians: Canadian citizens require a passport, but no visa for a stay of up to three months.
For South Africans a passport and note you must apply for a visa in South Africa, for travel to Morocco.
For Irish nationals, a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.
Proof of sufficient funds are required for visa and entry approval. An extension of six months is available for visa-exempt nationals.
Health: Health insurance should be taken out before you leave your home country. No vaccinations are required to enter Morocco. It is advisable to drink bottled water and be selective in the case of street food. Often street food is safer than some tourist restaurants. Medical facilities are good in all major towns.
Tipping: A tip of 10 % is expected but some places include a service charge. Giving a few dirhams to the poor is a good thing to do, but never give money to children.
Safety: Violent crime is not a major problem, but there have been thefts at knifepoint in major cities and especially on beaches. Be sensible in dark streets at night. Walk with a friend. Use official (badged) guides only.
Customs: Morocco is a Muslim country and it is preferable to keep the wearing of swimsuits, shorts and other revealing clothing to the beach or hotel poolside. Women travelling alone will receive less hassle if dressed conservatively. Smoking is practised widely, and it is customary to offer cigarettes in social situations. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. The giving and receiving of things, and the eating of food, should only be done with the right hand, as the left is considered unclean. Homosexuality is a criminal offence, and sexual relations outside marriage are also punishable by law.
Business: Business in Morocco is based on French customs and is much more formal than in some Western countries. Always check what language a meeting will be held . Arrange your own translator well in advance. Almost all businesses are closed on Fridays, and some are also closed on Thursdays.
Communications: Internet Cafes are everywhere but the keyboards are often non-qwerty! The international access code for Morocco is +212. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)44 for Marrakech and (0)37 for Rabat. Hotels can add a hefty surcharge to their telephone bills; it is best to check before making long international calls. Three mobile GSM 900 networks cover the north of the country.
Duty free: Travellers to Morocco over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco; 1 litre spirits and 1 litre wine; and perfume up to 5g.
