Morocco Travel Essentials

Citizens of many countries can enter Morocco without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, while others need a visa or an electronic travel authorization. Requirements depend on your nationality and can change, so always confirm with the Moroccan consulate or your government's official travel advice before booking.

The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is a closed currency: it cannot normally be bought outside Morocco, and only limited amounts may be taken in or out. Withdraw cash from bank ATMs on arrival or exchange at banks and official bureaux, and keep receipts if you plan to change money back.

Cards are accepted in many hotels, larger restaurants and shops in cities, but cash is essential in souks, small cafés, taxis and rural areas. Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas at unfavorable rates.

• Tell your bank you are traveling and check foreign transaction fees.
• A multi-currency card can reduce conversion costs.
• Carry small notes and coins for tips and taxis.

Morocco has three mobile operators: Maroc Telecom, Orange and inwi. Local SIM cards with data are available at airports and shops with your passport. Travel eSIMs can be installed before departure if your phone supports them.

Mobile data works well in cities and on main roads; coverage is patchier in the mountains and desert.

Choose a policy that includes medical treatment and evacuation, and check that activities such as trekking, surfing or quad biking are covered. Keep your policy number and emergency contact accessible offline.

Most visits to Morocco are trouble-free. The most common issues are petty theft, scams and persistent touting in tourist areas. Check your government's travel advice before and during your trip.

Emergency numbers include 19 for police in cities, 177 for the Gendarmerie Royale outside urban areas and 15 for ambulance and fire services. 112 can be dialed from mobile phones.

Morocco generally uses GMT+1, but switches back to GMT during Ramadan; check the current time when booking transport around those dates. Sockets are type C and E at 220 V.

Dress modestly in medinas and rural areas, ask before photographing people, and use your right hand for eating and greeting. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public in daylight out of respect.

Pack for variety: light, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees; a warm layer for evenings, desert nights and mountain trips; comfortable walking shoes for uneven medina lanes; sun protection; and a scarf that works for sun, dust and visiting religious sites.