Group trips to Morocco

If you are a UK citizen, to find out the entry requirements for Morocco, you can check this informational page from our partner Sherpa. If you need a visa, you can apply for it through Sherpa. If you are not a UK citizen, you can still use Sherpa by changing the nationality in the 'Passport' section.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Morocco – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Morocco is in the Western European Time Zone (WET), which is UTC+0. However, Morocco observes Daylight Saving Time, usually from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, shifting the time to Western European Summer Time (WEST), which is UTC+1.

During this period:

• If it is 12 pm in the UK, it will be 1 pm in Morocco.
• If it is 12 pm in New York, USA, it will be 5 pm in Morocco.

Be sure to check the current time difference when planning your trip, as it can change with daylight saving adjustments.

Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD) as its currency. The exchange rate can vary, but as a rough guide:

• 1 GBP is approximately 14 MAD
• 1 USD is around 10 MAD
• 1 EUR is about 11 MAD

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Make sure to check for the latest rates before you travel.

In Morocco, cash and cards are widely accepted. You can use credit and debit cards in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's a good idea to have some cash for smaller shops, markets, and taxis. ATMs are available in cities and towns, so you can easily withdraw cash. It's often useful to carry Moroccan dirhams for everyday expenses, as not all places accept cards. Remember that smaller establishments might prefer cash, so having some on hand is always helpful.

Tipping is appreciated in Morocco and often expected for good service. In restaurants, it's common to leave around 10% of the bill as a tip. For smaller services, like taxis or porters, rounding up the fare or a small tip is appropriate. While tipping in Moroccan Dirhams is preferred, small amounts in Euros or Dollars are usually accepted too. If you're unsure, you can always ask locals for guidance on tipping practices.

In Morocco, you'll find that Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, especially in urban areas. However, for more reliable internet access while traveling around, it's a good idea to buy a local SIM card. Major providers like Maroc Telecom, Orange Morocco, and Inwi offer affordable prepaid plans with data. You can purchase a SIM card at the airport, in mobile shops, or even in some convenience stores. If you prefer, you can also opt for an e-SIM data plan, which is easy to set up and doesn't require a physical SIM card. This way, you’ll stay connected even in areas where Wi-Fi might be scarce.

In Morocco, the official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). You'll also find that many people speak French, especially in urban areas, as it's widely used in business and government. Here are some useful Arabic expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Salam
• Thank you: Shukran
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La

If you're heading to Morocco, having a few of these phrases at hand can be quite helpful in your travels.

In Morocco, the plugs are of types C and E. The standard voltage is 220 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz. If your devices use a different plug type, we suggest bringing a universal adapter to ensure compatibility. This way, you'll be able to charge your gadgets without any hassle.

In Morocco, the main religion is Islam. Most Moroccans are Sunni Muslims. When visiting, especially during Ramadan, you might notice changes in business hours and daily routines, as it's a significant religious observance. Women travelers should consider dressing modestly, especially in rural areas or when visiting religious sites. Key religious holidays include:

• Ramadan
• Eid al-Fitr
• Eid al-Adha

Packing for Morocco can be exciting, as it offers a mix of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Here's a helpful guide on what to put in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
  • Loose pants or long skirts
  • A light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings
  • A scarf or shawl for sun protection and modesty
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for the beach or casual days
  • Hiking boots if you plan to explore the Atlas Mountains
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
  • A universal travel adapter
  • Portable charger and camera
  • Reusable water bottle
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Basic first-aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic
  • Pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol
  • Any personal prescription medications

Remember that Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, so dressing modestly is appreciated.

Morocco's weather varies a lot depending on the region and time of year.

• Coastal Areas: Mild winters and warm summers. Best time to visit is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant.
• Inland and Southern Areas: Hot and dry summers, especially in the desert regions, with cooler winters. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn.
• Atlas Mountains: Cold and snowy in winter, offering a cooler escape in the summer. Ideal for trekking in late spring or early autumn.

Overall, spring and autumn are the best times to explore Morocco, offering milder temperatures and less extreme weather conditions.