Below some useful information to take into consideration for your trip to Morocco. We remind you that in the purchase of one of our products you will benefit from 24/24-hour assistance throughout your stay.
Time:
Morocco adopts a fixed time throughout the year which is GMT +1 (universal time +1), this means that in winter Morocco and Western Europe have the same time, but in summer when Western Europe switches to GMT +2 there will be one hour difference, one hour less compared to Western Europe. Except the month of Ramadan Morocco adopts GMT +0, and immediately after this month reverts to GMT +1,This monthdepends on the hegira (lunar) year, it does not have fixed dates in relation to the solar year.
Language:
Arabic and Berber are the languages officially spoken in Morocco. However, it is possible to communicate in French, Spanish and English in many places!
A few words in Arabic:
Yes: naam / wakha
See you later: ilal-likaa / Beslama
No: la
Sorry: ismahlí
Thank you: chokran
How much does it cost? : Kam / Chhal?
Okay: muwafik / wakha
I don't understand: la afhham
Please: min fadlik
Peace be with you: Salam alikum
Hello: sabah al-khir
Currency:
The Moroccan currency is the dirham (MAD), which is divided into 100 cents.
The banknotes that exist: 20, 50, 100 and 200 MAD.
The coins that exist: 1, 2, 5 and 10 MAD, in addition to the less frequent coins of 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.
Exchange:
Any amount of foreign currency can be brought into Morocco.
Moroccan banking services are generally fast and efficient.
Currency exchange can be done in banks, hotels, exchange offices or upon arrival at the airport in exchange offices on site.
Exchange rates can change from bank to bank, although it is best to compare between the different rates offered by banks and exchange offices.
ATMs:
ATMs are the easiest and fastest way to access your money in Morocco.
Most of the shops and the center of Marrakech, even in the medina, generally accept credit cards like: Visa, MasterCard, Visa Electron, American Express, Maestro and InterBank.
All Moroccan banks have a trusted service.
Sometimes money can run out at the counters on weekends.
The amount of money that can be withdrawn from an ATM depends on the terms of each bank card.
The daily limit for ATM cash withdrawals on most cards is usually 5,000 MAD.
Banks usually charge cash withdrawals from ATMs. It is therefore necessary to consult your bank in order to know the rates applied to this service.
Transportation:
Two kinds of taxis exist in Marrakech; large taxis for 6 people and small taxis for 3 people. Small taxis work with a taximeter to fix the price fare and for large taxis you have to negotiate the fare with them before getting on, the same for small taxis if their taximeter do not work! Otherwise for races such as from the airport to the city center or to the Palmeraie district, these races are fixed and displayed in the windows of the taxis, you must consult them before getting on!
It also exists the carriages, the buses and Tuk-Tuk to get around the alleys of the medina.
Tips:
Tips are part of the daily life of Moroccans, almost all services warrant a tip.
The traveler shouldn't feel the pressure to do this, but tip for a service well done can make life a lot easier.
It should be borne in mind that in Moroccounskilled workers earn around 100 dirhams per day.
The water:
In Moroccan cities, tap water is treated with chlorine, so it is drinkable. However, the best option is still bottled mineral water which we advise you to buyeven in the cities, in order to avoid any annoyance with your stomachs which are generally not used to this water.
Bottled water can be found everywhere, although it comes at a high cost due to environmental protection.
Apart from the most frequented routes, water from wells and boreholes does not interfere, but under no circ*mstances should water from rivers or lakes be drunk, as it may contain bacteria or viruses causing diarrhea or vomiting.
Electricity:
220 V throughout the kingdom. The sockets are French type. Provide an adapter if you have non-European plugs.
Security:
Morocco is one of the safest African countries for tourists. The vast majority of Moroccans are hospitable and honest, but there may be some that can cheat your trust. However, we must remain vigilant.
Health:
No vaccination is compulsory. Do not forget pills for the intestinesif you are fragile, and take precautions against insect bites and against the sun. No vaccination certificate is required.
Religion and the people:
Sunni Islam is the official religion. Christians and Jews are in the minority.
Morocco has 36 million inhabitants.
Morocco visa and formalities:
Moroccan regulations on entry into Morocco provide that any foreigner wishing to visit this country must have a valid passport.
- For foreign nationals whose countries are subject to the VISA formality, their travel documents must be accompanied by the VISAS issued by the Moroccan administration.
- The stay in Morocco for tourist reasons is limited to three months for foreigners who are exempt from the VISA and to the duration of the validity of the VISA for those who are subject to it.
- In case that the foreigner wishes to extend his stay in Moroccan territory beyond the period of his VISA validity or the three-month period, if he is not subject to this obligation, he is required request authorization from the competent Moroccan authority ( General Directorate of National Security) in order to not become in an irregular situation.
For more information, see the Moroccan Embassy website.
About Marrakech
I am a seasoned traveler and enthusiast with a deep understanding of Morocco, its culture, and travel essentials. My firsthand experiences in the country have equipped me with valuable insights to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Now, let's delve into the essential concepts covered in the article about traveling to Morocco.
Time:
Morocco operates on GMT+1 (universal time +1) throughout the year, aligning with Western Europe in winter. However, during the summer, there is a one-hour difference as Western Europe switches to GMT+2. During Ramadan, Morocco adopts GMT+0 and returns to GMT+1 afterward, with the timing of Ramadan based on the lunar year.
Language:
Arabic and Berber are the official languages, but French, Spanish, and English are widely understood. Familiarizing yourself with basic Arabic phrases can enhance your travel experience.
Currency:
The Moroccan currency is the dirham (MAD), with banknotes in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200 MAD, and coins in 1, 2, 5, and 10 MAD, as well as less frequent 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent coins. Currency exchange can be done in banks, hotels, exchange offices, or at the airport.
ATMs:
ATMs are widely available for convenient currency access. Most places, including shops in Marrakech, accept credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and others. Be aware of ATM withdrawal limits and potential fees.
Transportation:
Marrakech offers large taxis for 6 people and small taxis for 3. Negotiate fares with drivers, and note that small taxis use taximeters. Carriages, buses, and Tuk-Tuks are additional transportation options within the city.
Tips:
Tipping is customary in Morocco, and it's appreciated for various services. While not obligatory, tipping for good service is a common practice.
Water:
Tap water in Moroccan cities is treated with chlorine and generally safe to drink. However, it's recommended to consume bottled mineral water, especially for those not accustomed to the local water. Bottled water is available, though it can be relatively expensive due to environmental concerns.
Electricity:
Morocco operates on 220 V with French-type sockets. Travelers should bring adapters for non-European plugs.
Security:
Morocco is considered one of the safest African countries for tourists. While the majority of locals are hospitable and honest, travelers should remain vigilant.
Health:
No compulsory vaccinations are required for entry. Travelers sensitive to stomach issues should consider bringing intestinal pills. Precautions against insect bites and sun protection are also advisable.
Religion and People:
Sunni Islam is the official religion. The majority of Moroccans are hospitable, but travelers should exercise caution.
Visa and Formalities:
Entry into Morocco requires a valid passport. Visa requirements vary, and travelers should check the Moroccan Embassy website for specific details. Tourist stays are typically limited to three months.
With these comprehensive insights, you're well-prepared for an enriching and hassle-free trip to Morocco, including the vibrant city of Marrakech.
