Entry Requirements and Visas
Morocco has a relatively liberal visa policy compared to other African countries. Nationals of many countries can enter visa-free, including all Schengen member states, the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many others across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.
If you do require a visa, apply through the Moroccan Embassy. Standard visas cost approximately £17 for a single entry and £26 for double or multiple entries, and typically take 5-6 working days to process. You'll need to provide a completed application form, four passport-size photos from the previous six months, a valid passport with at least one blank page and photocopies of the data pages, your fee (payable by postal order), photocopies of all flight bookings, and a photocopy of your hotel reservation.
Once in Morocco, you can stay for up to 90 days. Visa extensions can be time-consuming; some visitors find it easier to briefly leave the country (such as to the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta or Melilla) and re-enter for a new stamp. If you're arriving from areas where cholera is prevalent, you may need an anti-cholera vaccination certificate. If you're bringing pets, you'll need a health certificate less than ten days old and an anti-rabies certificate less than six months old.
Money, Currency, and Costs
The Moroccan currency is the Dirham (MAD). When arriving by taxi within a city, trips typically cost around 20 dirham or less, though you should always agree on the price beforehand rather than relying on meters. This gives you a useful reference point for understanding everyday costs.
When negotiating prices for goods and services, remember to establish fixed prices upfront. This is particularly important when using taxis and when purchasing items in markets. Be cautious of vendors offering "free gifts," as you may subsequently be accused of theft and pressured to pay.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Morocco is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of common scams and street tactics. Avoid making eye contact with touts and street guides, as this often discourages their approaches. If you do engage with someone offering services you don't want, respond with a polite but firm "la shokran" (Arabic for "no, thank you"). This phrase is understood by locals and often deters further persistence without revealing your native language.
Never accept offers of drugs or other illicit products from street vendors, and be cautious of individuals claiming to be students wanting to practice English—these encounters often end with pressure to visit carpet or souvenir shops. If someone becomes too persistent, seek refuge in a taxi, café, or shop, where proprietors will typically discourage the person from bothering you further.
In medina (old town) areas with many hotels, young touts may claim GPS doesn't work or routes are closed to convince you to follow them for a small fee. This is a common tactic; trust your own navigation or official maps instead. Additionally, be skeptical of claims that locations are "close"—this is often a ploy to get you to follow someone.
For legitimate help navigating tourist areas, use official resources and established tour operators rather than street guides. The international dialing code for Morocco is +212 if you need to contact authorities or emergency services.
Health
Visitors should be aware of health requirements and recommendations. If you're coming from areas where cholera is prevalent, anti-cholera vaccination certificates may be required. Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance and that any necessary vaccinations are up to date before your trip. If you have specific health concerns or require medications, consult your doctor before traveling and carry any prescriptions with you.
Staying Connected
The international dialing code for Morocco is +212. To use your phone while traveling, you can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. This will allow you to make calls, send messages, and use data at local rates, which is typically more economical than international roaming charges. Mobile coverage is widespread in major cities and tourist areas, though it may be more limited in remote regions.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Moroccan hospitality is generous and welcoming. Greet people who greet you with a smile, and accept offers of genuine hospitality graciously. However, remain cautious of street vendors and touts—being friendly doesn't mean you must accept every offer. A polite but firm refusal, delivered with a smile, is both acceptable and respected.
When interacting with locals, remember that Arabic and Berber are the official languages, though the Moroccan dialect of Arabic (Darija) is widely spoken. Learning a few key phrases like "la shokran" (no, thank you) can be helpful. Islam is the official and predominant religion, so be respectful of local customs and religious practices.
In markets and when shopping, bargaining is common practice, but always establish prices clearly before making a purchase or agreeing to services. This prevents misunderstandings and disputes over costs later.