Planning a visit to Morocco? Right here’s your one-stop Morocco journey information with every part that you must know earlier than visiting!
I visited Morocco just lately and had a blast, but in addition discovered some necessary issues. I’ll take you thru the necessities of planning a visit to Morocco, from transportation to non secular holidays to all the very best issues to do in Morocco.
By the tip of this text, I hope you’ll be assured about planning your personal journey to this charming nation. With out additional ado, right here’s my Morocco journey information!
Do You Want a Visa for Morocco?
No — vacationers from the US, Canada, the UK, EU nations, Australia, New Zealand, and lots of different nations don’t want a visa to go to Morocco, if the journey is lower than 90 days.
And, Morocco presently doesn’t have any journey necessities or restrictions associated to COVID-19.
The place Is Morocco?
Morocco is in northwest Africa. It’s immediately beneath Spain, throughout the Strait of Gibraltar. It’s in a novel spot: situated in Africa, a hop, and a skip from Europe, and culturally a part of the Arab and Berber worlds.
Find out how to Journey to Morocco
For a Morocco journey planning information it will be useful to let you know learn how to get there (lol) The main airport in Morocco is Casablanca Airport (CMN). That is doubtless the place your flight will land. There’s additionally the Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Many main airways service each airports, together with Delta, American Airways, Emirates, British Airways, and Air Canada.
There are just a few variations, although. For instance, United Airways providers Casablanca Airport however not Marrakech Menara Airport. Relying in your journey itinerary, you might need to fly into one airport however fly out of the opposite. Based mostly on our itinerary, that’s what a lot of the vacationers did. We flew into Casablanca then flew out of Marrakech.
You can even get to Morocco by taking a ferry from Spain. Relying on the route, the journey might be as quick as 1 hour and half-hour or as much as 36 hours. There are a number of ports of departure and arrival. The quickest ferry routes leaving from Spain are the Algeciras and Tarifa ports arriving in Tangier. They take 60-90 minutes. Barcelona Spain to Tangier Morocco takes about 28 to 36 hours. You can even take your automobile by ferry to Morocco. This takes some additional planning.
Getting Round Morocco
Trains
Morocco’s rail community is kind of good — snug and (largely) on time. Trains join the nation’s main northern cities at comparatively reasonably priced charges.
Buses
There are a number of private and non-private bus firms that join cities throughout the nation. Buses are usually gradual and are typically overcrowded. Except you’re making a really lengthy journey, you’re nearly at all times higher off taking one of many two taxi choices beneath.
Taxis
There are two sorts of taxis in Morocco: petit taxis and grand taxis.
Petit taxis are smaller autos that may carry three passengers. There are many them, and so they’re the most well-liked approach to get round cities.
Grand taxis are bigger autos that normally carry as much as six passengers. You can even use these to journey inside a metropolis, however they’re largely used for touring from one metropolis to a different.
There isn’t a Uber in Morocco however as a substitute there may be an app known as “Careem” that’s obtainable in among the main cities. In Marrakech there are taxi apps- “Heetch” and “Roby”. If you’re staying in a Riad or lodge ask the concierge or entrance desk to rearrange a automobile/driver for you.
Planes
If touring to main cities which are removed from one another, you possibly can go for a home flight. There are two home airways: Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia Maroc.
Greatest Time to Go to Morocco
The most effective time to go to Morocco is within the spring and fall: March to Might (although you’ll in all probability need to plan round Ramadan) and September to November. It’s neither too sizzling nor too chilly, and also you’re outdoors of the height vacationer season (summer time). We went initially of June. The climate was beautiful and it was not crowded.
Planning Round Non secular Holidays
Morocco’s official faith is Islam. Most non secular holidays gained’t have an effect on your trip a lot however there may be one you must find out about earlier than planning a visit to Morocco: Ramadan.
Ramadan usually lasts 30 days from March or April till April or Might. Throughout Ramadan, Muslims abstain from foods and drinks day by day from daybreak till sundown.
Because of this, most native eating places and cafes are closed throughout the daytime. Some even shut for the entire month. In the event you’re not a Muslim, you’re not anticipated to watch Ramadan, however the momentary closures can affect your keep.
In the event you don’t thoughts this, it may be value it to expertise Morocco throughout Ramadan. After the solar units, there are celebrations all all through the cities!
Seasons & Climate in Morocco
Northern cities like Casablanca and Tangier have a Mediterranean local weather. Even throughout the sizzling, muggy summer time, the ocean breeze cools the place down. For reference, the typical temperatures in Casablanca are 73 °F (23 °C) in the summertime and 55 °F (13 °C) within the winter.
Cities like Fes and Marrakech in Central and Southern Morocco rapidly change into uncomfortably sizzling in the summertime. Marrakech’s common summer time temps are within the 90s and it may possibly hit triple digits! The common winter temperature is 54 °F (12 °C).
Essentially the most rain in Morocco falls from November to March, particularly within the coastal areas. Maintain that in thoughts when planning a visit to Morocco.
Language
Morocco has two official languages: Trendy Normal Arabic and Normal Moroccan Berber.
Essentially the most generally spoken languages, nevertheless, are Moroccan Arabic (a dialect of Trendy Normal Arabic) and varied dialects of Moroccan Berber.
France used to rule Morocco, so French is often used there, too.
Do They Communicate English in Morocco?
English isn’t extensively spoken in Morocco. Nevertheless, most individuals working within the tourism trade converse fundamental English.
Cash Conversion in Morocco
The forex in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). A number of Moroccan institutions solely settle for money, so that you’ll need to get to an ATM as quickly as you possibly can. ATMs in Morocco are likely to have first rate change charges, however you too can think about exchanging some cash on the airport. Most eating places and principal outlets (not smaller outlets within the souks) will take bank cards however normally not American Categorical. It’s good to have money on you for tipping and procuring within the souks.
Find out how to Gown
Most ladies in Morocco gown modestly as per Muslim customs.
I like to recommend dressing extra on the modest facet: tops that cowl your chest and shoulders, light-weight pants or shorts that cowl your knees. You can even put on lengthy clothes and skirts (beneath the knee). As a rule of thumb, your shoulders, chest, and knees ought to be coated. Cowl your shoulders and chest when visiting the mosques. Head coverings weren’t required in Morocco however convey a shawl simply in case. Gown in Marrakech was extra informal. For each women and men, footwear have to be eliminated when getting into the mosques. Convey a bag to hold your footwear.
The place to Keep in Morocco
Whereas touring by way of Moroccan cities, a Riad is a well-liked place to remain. In modern-day, a Riad is a lodge or guesthouse with shared widespread areas and gardens which have non-public rooms. These are sometimes restored palaces and mansions. The structure is magnificent. Many are throughout the Medinas which make them handy for eating and procuring. It is best to do your due diligence to test evaluations. In the event you choose one thing extra quiet, search for motels and resorts outdoors of the Medina.
The place to Go & What to Do in Morocco
Questioning the place to go in Morocco? From vibrant Medinas and vigorous souks to lovely mosques and manicured gardens, every metropolis has its personal distinctive attract. Listed here are my suggestions for what to do in Morocco:
Casablanca
Casablanca isn’t the official capital of Morocco however this bustling metropolis positive feels prefer it. It’s very trendy, whereas nonetheless having some historic touches.
Hassan II Mosque is among the world’s largest mosques and one in all only a few mosques within the nation that non-Muslims can enter, so visiting is among the finest issues to do in Morocco.
Mohamed V Sq. is a bustling hub the place locals collect and soak within the joyful ambiance. Discover the sq. and take a look at what the native distributors are providing.
The Museum of Moroccan Judaism is a novel museum showcasing the two,000-year historical past of the Jewish group in Morocco. Get a glimpse into a fancy facet of the nation’s historical past.
Fes
Fes is the other of Casablanca: impressively historical and historic. Slender streets intertwine and lead you on a journey by way of rowdy a rowdy Medina and majestic mosques.
The Royal Palace: Though you won’t be able to get inside, it is possible for you to to admire and take photos of the beautiful seven entrance gates. This palace was constructed within the 1960’s. The craftsmanship is wonderful!
Jewish Cemetery: You’ll discover uniquely formed white tombs on a hill. That is an expansive Jewish cemetery that was established in 1883. The tombs have been freshly painted in 2019. There are some notables buried within the cemetery that have been honored by each Muslims and Jews.
Madrasa Bou Inania is a Muslim studying institute based within the 14th century. The structure is beautiful, with inexperienced tiles, marble columns, and distinctive Moroccan craftsmanship.
Borj Nord is a fort courting again to the late Sixteenth century that now homes the Museum of Arms. There are literally thousands of historic items, together with a cannon that was utilized in a Sixteenth-century struggle.
The Medina in Fes is among the most expansive Medinas (historic districts which have residences, outlets, and markets) within the nation. In the event you have been questioning the place to go in Morocco to get an genuine expertise, that is it. However, I’ve been in markets everywhere in the world and I discovered it overwhelming EVEN with a information. So, watch out, maintain your belongings near you. It is usually simple to get misplaced in these winding streets.
On the big Chouara Tanneries, animal skins and hides are dyed. You’ll be able to’t enter the tanning pit itself however there are terraces the place you possibly can see what goes on. Watching the method is fascinating however can also be disturbing for some. There’s a robust scent. You’ll be able to ask to smell on mint leaves to assist stop nausea. The procuring right here is wonderful. There are soooooo many leather-based items! You’ll be able to haggle. It’s a part of the tradition. Among the staff might ask for suggestions.
Merzouga
Merzouga is a small, tranquil city within the Sahara Desert. It acts as a gateway to Erg Chebbi, an expansive stretch of sand dunes. You are able to do camel rides, take jeeps or ATVs out on the sand dunes.
Go glamping within the Merzouga Desert and witness a starlit sky free from mild air pollution. Sadly it was cloudy once we went however we did get to see just a few stars and sundown. You can even do sand boarding. We had dwell music-drumming round a hearth whereas consuming wine which meant we needed to dance! It was superior. The following morning we dressed up in colourful outfits and did or personal photograph shoot.
Go on a hike to the highest dune in Erg Chebbi. You may get there in about an hour, nevertheless it’s not a straightforward journey. Keep away from noon and convey numerous water.
See flamingos at Dayet Srji, a salt lake west of Merzouga. The lake is full in winter and dry in summer time and attracts migratory birds like flamingos all year long.
Dades Valley/Dades Gorge
Nestled within the rugged Atlas Mountains is the scenic Dades Valley. The principle metropolis right here is Boumalne Dades, situated on a plateau and surrounded by cliffs.
The Auberge Chez Pierre Resort is a beautiful lodge on the town. The inside is stately and with the fashionable comforts you want. It’s luxurious but reasonably priced, together with the restaurant, the place you possibly can get pleasure from a 5-course meal for simply 22 euros.
Discover all of the Dades Valley has to supply, from towering cliffs to fertile gardens. It’s a surprisingly different paradise with heat and welcoming locals.
Go to Rose Valley and the close by village of Kelaat M’Gouna to see the fantastic thing about Morocco’s desert area and immerse your self in Morocco’s Berber tradition.
Marrakech
Marrakech is considerably of a vacationer metropolis however doesn’t really feel overly touristy in any respect. It effortlessly blends custom and modernity, and it’s thought-about the most important metropolis of Central Morocco.
The Koutoubia Mosque is the biggest mosque in Marrakech. It is usually generally known as “Mosque of the Booksellers”. It was initially in-built 1147 however fully rebuilt from 1158-1195. The minaret that stands 77 meters in peak is a crucial landmark of Marrakech.
Jemaa el-Fnaa is a bustling sq. that comes alive because the day goes on with road performers, musicians, and meals stalls.
Bahia Palace is an architectural gem courting again to the nineteenth century. It’s an opulent palace with tranquil courtyards, lush gardens, and studded fountains. I used to be mesmerized. It was crowded right here however we have been capable of do an all-white photograph shoot with an expert photographer.
Jardin Majorelle is a lush botanical backyard with groves of bamboo, dwarf palm timber, agave, and extra. There’s additionally a museum onsite: the Berber Museum. The grounds are the previous residence of Yves Saint Laurent. The “Majorelle Blue” is an official TM colour and it’s magnificent! These gardens are to not be missed.
Talking of, the YSL Museum is close by. There are displays of Yves Saint Laurent’s work, that includes tons of clothes, equipment, sketches, images and a present store. There’s additionally a cute cafe with an out of doors space and a pool.
Resort La Maison Arabe: This isn’t the lodge we stayed in however it’s the lodge we did our Tagine cooking class and Hammam spa therapy and everybody who did each loved each immensely so I’m including it to the listing.
Jnane Tamsna: It is a Black, woman-owned lodge in Marrakech about quarter-hour from the Medina. A bunch of us had cocktails and appetizers on the roof at sundown adopted by dinner on the lodge grounds. We met the proprietor and he or she was beautiful.
Itinerary: As you possibly can see, we coated quite a lot of floor in Morocco. I curated this journey with Expertise Morocco and so they had optimistic evaluations from vacationers who had carried out this itinerary. We began in Casablanca for 1 evening, spent 2 nights in Fes, 1 evening Glamping within the Sahara/Merzouga, 1 evening in Dades/Atlas Mountains, 3 nights in Marrakech. A complete of 8 nights which included quite a lot of driving! It was a good way to see how numerous Morocco is however should you shouldn’t have quite a lot of time then I recommend spending most of it in a single or two of the cities. Marrakech was my favourite. It’s what I anticipated Morocco to appear and feel like.
Conventional Meals & Drinks in Morocco
This part may very well be a weblog put up by itself! Whereas in Morocco we ate very nicely! As well as, since this was a Culinary Travels meals tour, whereas planning a visit to Morocco, I included a strolling meals tour in Fes, meals stall visits in Marrakech and a cooking class in Marrakech. You’ll be able to take a look at this motion on my Instagram HIGHLIGHT REEL of Morocco.
Moroccan delicacies is fragrant and stuffed with spices-a lot of turmeric, saffron and cumin. Some dishes tasted like curry to me. However we frequently had so as to add salt to dishes based mostly on our American palates. Additionally they eat quite a lot of BREAD! Each meal and in all forms-pancakes, crepes, baked items like flat breads, puffy breads, pastries lol and fruits for dessert.
These are the normal meals and drinks it’s a must to attempt whereas in Morocco:
Couscous is Morocco’s nationwide dish. Even should you’ve had it earlier than, don’t go up the chance to attempt it proper from the supply. It’s historically served with a stew of meat and/or greens.
Harira is a soup usually created from tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb. It’s historically served throughout Ramadan to interrupt the quick every day.
R’fissa is a Casablanca staple made with flaky pancakes, rooster in onion broth, and herbs and spices.
Tanjia is a conventional Marrakech dish of lamb or veal ready in a terracotta jar, leading to extremely tender meat.
Tagine can check with any dish cooked in a clay pot, normally slow-cooked chunks of lamb or beef or rooster with herbs and spices. We had this nearly day by day. Principally rooster Tagine or vegetable with Couscous. My favourite was lemon rooster and a beef with prunes.
Pastilla, additionally known as bastilla, is a savory meat pie with a poultry or seafood filling. It’s a surprisingly complicated dish, with a sweetness to it, due to having sugar, cinnamon, and almonds in it. It’s candy pastry crust however served as an appetizer or principal course.
Zalouk is a well-liked unfold served as a facet dish. It’s manufactured from eggplants, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, and spices, and served with a crusty bread. It is rather good!
Gazelle horns are Moroccan cookies made with an almond and orange blossom filling and wrapped in a skinny pastry. They’re so good with a cup of mint tea!
Chebakia is a dessert manufactured from a honey-dipped fried sesame cookie within the form of a flower. It’s sticky and candy, and finest loved from a market stall!
Msemen are considerably analogous to pancakes or crepes — a flatbread eaten for breakfast and as a road meals. It may be candy (served with honey and butter, for instance) or savory (filled with meat and herbs). Honey is a staple in Morocco. We tried a number of sorts of honey throughout our Fes strolling meals tour!
Baghrir is one other Moroccan pancake equal, generally eaten for breakfast. They’re generally known as “thousand gap pancakes,” due to the tiny holes that type within the pancake throughout the cooking course of.
Mint tea is the most well-liked beverage in Morocco. Its reputation has ceremonial origins nevertheless it’s now tremendous widespread in on a regular basis life. It’s served sizzling in a glass cup-just like in Turkey. That is so fascinating to me. It’s made with contemporary mint with actual blocks of sugar from mild sweetness to additional candy. We have been proven the method in our cooking class.
Earlier than you allow make sure to take a look at my different detailed and decadent journey meals guides!
Buying in Morocco:
If I had recognized the procuring in Morocco could be so wonderful, I might have found out learn how to convey an additional suitcase! Between me and others within the group we purchased wine, leather-based items, residence items, pottery, furnishings, mirrors, jewellery, garments..!!! So, funds for procuring when planning a visit to Morocco!
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