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Country Facts

Capital

Rabat

Size

446,550 km² (172,410 sq mi)

Time Zone

GMT+01:00

Population

38,762,441

Currency

Moroccan Dirham

Your Guide to Travelling in Morocco

Morocco is a country of ancient cities, dramatic mountains, sweeping deserts and Atlantic coastline. From the maze of Marrakech’s souks to the dunes of the Sahara and the blue streets of Chefchaouen, there is an extraordinary variety of experiences to discover.

Our Morocco Travel Guide covers the best places to visit, things to do, when to travel and practical information to help you plan your journey.

When you’re ready to start planning, explore our tailor-made Morocco holidays or speak to Alex Robinson, our Morocco travel expert.

Why Visit Morocco?

Morocco is one of North Africa’s most rewarding destinations for travellers who want variety.

You can explore centuries-old medinas, stay in beautiful riads, cross the High Atlas Mountains, spend a night in the Sahara and relax beside the Atlantic — all within one tailor-made journey.

The country also offers exceptional food, fascinating architecture and opportunities to experience traditional Moroccan life away from the main tourist routes.

Best Places to Visit in Morocco

Marrakech

Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most atmospheric cities.

Explore the historic medina, wander through the souks, visit the Bahia Palace and discover the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa. Staying in a traditional riad gives you a chance to experience another side of the city.

Fès

Fès is home to one of the world’s largest medieval medinas.

Its narrow streets, artisan workshops, mosques and historic buildings make it one of Morocco’s most fascinating destinations for culture and history.

The Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas provides a dramatic contrast to Morocco’s cities.

Travel through mountain villages, enjoy spectacular scenery and, for active travellers, explore some of the region’s walking trails.

The Sahara Desert

A journey into the Sahara is one of Morocco’s classic experiences.

Travel towards the dunes around Merzouga, explore the desert by 4×4 or camel and spend a night in a carefully selected desert camp beneath the stars.

Chefchaouen

Famous for its blue-painted buildings, Chefchaouen sits among the Rif Mountains in northern Morocco.

Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a wonderful addition to a longer journey.

Essaouira

On Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Essaouira offers a slower pace after the intensity of the cities and desert.

Explore its historic medina, enjoy fresh seafood and spend time beside the ocean.

Aït Ben Haddou

This spectacular fortified village, or ksar, is one of Morocco’s most recognisable sights.

It makes a memorable stop when travelling between Marrakech and the Sahara.

Things to Do in Morocco

Morocco is best experienced through a mixture of sightseeing and local experiences.

Some possibilities include:

  • Explore the medinas and souks of Marrakech and Fès

  • Stay in a traditional Moroccan riad

  • Cross the High Atlas Mountains

  • Visit Aït Ben Haddou

  • Explore the Dades and Todra Gorges

  • Experience the Sahara Desert

  • Spend a night at a desert camp

  • Take a Moroccan cooking class

  • Meet local communities in the mountains

  • Discover the blue streets of Chefchaouen

  • Enjoy fresh seafood in Essaouira

  • Relax on Morocco’s Atlantic coast

For inspiration, explore Morocco Explorer or Morocco Discovery.

Both itineraries can be adapted around your interests.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Morocco?

For most travellers, spring and autumn are excellent times to visit Morocco.

Spring: March to May

Temperatures are generally comfortable for exploring the cities, mountains and desert. The countryside can also be particularly beautiful at this time of year.

Summer: June to August

Temperatures can become very high inland and in the desert. The Atlantic coast and higher Atlas Mountains offer cooler alternatives.

Autumn: September to November

Another excellent period for exploring Morocco, with temperatures becoming more comfortable after the summer.

Winter: December to February

Marrakech can have pleasant daytime temperatures, although evenings can be cold. Snow is possible in the Atlas Mountains, while desert nights can be surprisingly chilly.

The best time depends on where you want to go and what you want to experience. Alex can advise you on the best time for your particular journey.

How Long Do You Need in Morocco?

For a first visit, 10–14 days is a good starting point.

A classic route could include:

Marrakech → Atlas Mountains → Sahara → Fès → Chefchaouen → Essaouira

With more time, you can explore the mountains in greater depth, spend longer in the desert or travel further along the Atlantic coast.

For inspiration, explore our tailor-made Morocco holidays.

Travelling Around Morocco

Private transport is one of the best ways to experience Morocco.

A private driver allows you to travel between the cities, mountains and desert at your own pace, with the flexibility to stop at viewpoints, villages and places of interest along the way.

We can also arrange local guides in the major destinations, giving you the opportunity to explore Morocco with people who know the country well.

Morocco Travel Information

Do I Need a Visa for Morocco?

British citizens can generally visit Morocco for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.

Your passport should meet the current Moroccan entry requirements, so check the latest UK Government travel advice for Morocco before travelling.

What Currency Does Morocco Use?

The currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD).

Cards are accepted in many hotels and larger businesses, although cash is useful in souks, smaller shops and more rural areas.

What Language Is Spoken in Morocco?

Arabic and Amazigh are Morocco’s official languages. French is also widely spoken, particularly in cities and tourist areas.

What Should I Wear in Morocco?

Morocco is a relatively conservative country, particularly outside the main tourist resorts.

Comfortable and respectful clothing is recommended when visiting religious and cultural sites or travelling through rural areas.

Is Morocco Suitable for Families?

Yes. Morocco can be an excellent family destination, with experiences ranging from exploring medinas and palaces to camel rides, desert camps, mountains and beaches.

We can adapt the pace, accommodation and activities around the ages and interests of your family.

Is Morocco Good for a Luxury Holiday?

Absolutely.

Morocco has some exceptional riads, boutique hotels, desert camps and luxury resorts.

A luxury tailor-made journey could combine beautiful accommodation with private guides, exclusive experiences, private transport and time in the mountains or desert.

Explore our luxury holidays for more inspiration.

Morocco Travel FAQs

Is Morocco safe for tourists?

Morocco is a popular destination for international travellers. As with any overseas journey, we recommend checking the latest UK Government travel advice before travelling.

Can I visit the Sahara Desert?

Yes. The Sahara can be incorporated into a tailor-made Morocco itinerary, usually as part of a journey between Marrakech and Fès.

Do I need a private driver in Morocco?

You don’t have to, but private transport is an excellent way to explore the country. It gives you greater flexibility and makes travelling between the cities, mountains and desert much easier.

Can I combine Morocco with a beach holiday?

Yes. Essaouira and Morocco’s Atlantic coast are particularly good options for adding a few relaxing days to a cultural or desert journey.

Is Morocco good for a honeymoon?

Yes. A private Morocco journey can combine beautiful riads, romantic desert camps, mountain scenery and time on the coast.

Can I combine Morocco with another country?

Depending on your available time, Morocco can be combined with other destinations in North Africa or Europe. Alex can help you decide which combination works best for your trip.

Start Planning Your Morocco Journey

Morocco can be adventurous, cultural, luxurious or completely relaxed — and your itinerary can be designed around what interests you most.

Explore our Morocco holidays for inspiration, or speak to Alex Robinson, our Morocco travel expert, about creating a completely bespoke journey.

Start planning your Morocco holiday

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info@earthtrip.co.uk

Preparing For A Trip To Morocco?

Visa Information / Entry requirements to Morocco

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Morocco’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Morocco, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date you arrive. You will also need proof of your return/onward ticket.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Make sure the border official stamps your passport. Some travellers have had difficulties leaving Morocco because their passport has no entry stamp.

Visa requirements

You can visit Morocco without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.

To stay longer than 90 days, you must request an extension at a Moroccan police station.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Morocco, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a polio vaccine if you’re coming from a polio-affected country.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Morocco guide.

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Tourism Health Information – Morocco

Before you travel check that:

  • Your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • You have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 150 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in Morocco.

 

Medication

If you have a UK prescription and need medication in Morocco, contact the nearest pharmacy. If they do not have your medication, they will ask you to get another prescription from a Moroccan doctor for an alternative medication. Pharmacies are open 24 hours in every city and district.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

 

Healthcare in Morocco

Public health facilities in Morocco struggle to provide adequate medical care. Private clinics are available. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Morocco where some staff will speak English.

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Weather & When To Go To Morocco

Morocco offers good weather all year round, however, it varies across the regions, with deserts, mountains, coastal towns and busy cities all having different climates across the year.

Seasons Overview:

Spring (March – June):

Lovely warm and sunny days, gradually getting warmer towards the tail-end of June and into July. The Atlas Mountains is the coolest location, with temperatures varying between 15°C and 25°C during the day and getting notably colder in the evenings, making it perfect for hiking before warming up in your hotel.

Spring is the ideal time to visit the Sahara, offering mild days (20°C–30°C) and manageable nights (10°C–15°C).

Summer (July – August)

Extreme heat sets in during the summer. As a wildly desert landscape, inland Morocco can reach temperatures exceeding 40°C, and the southern cities remaining in the mid-to-late 30s.

Coastal towns are the best destination at this time of year, offering perfect beach weather for those looking to relax in the sun with the sea breeze and Atlantic Ocean to cool you down. Temperatures ranging from high-20s to low-30s.

The Atlas Mountains also remain one of the cooler destinations, remaining pleasant hiking conditions.

Autumn (September – October):

The leftover summer heat makes early autumn another great season to visit Morocco. Still nice sunny days with very little rainfall. The inland cities retain the warmth for a little longer than the coastal towns, but overall the temperatures are great for exploring, ranging from 32°C in Marrakech to 18°C in Fes.

Winter (November – February)

Daylight hours shorten and weather cools to more milder temperatures, around 18°C-20°C in Marrakech, and between 10°C–18°C in the Sahara. The evening is when the winter becomes more noticeable, with nights getting very cold and often dropping to 5°C. 

The Atlas Mountains often experience freezing temperatures and snow at higher altitudes, but remains much milder in the lower areas.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit, offering warm but pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and exploration, with the majority of Morocco at manageable temperatures. November-February is also a great time to visit for those looking for some winter warmth.

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Tailor-Made Luxury Tours with a Private Driver

Earth Trip designs exclusive, bespoke tours featuring private drivers and hand-picked luxury accommodations, built entirely around your personal preferences and travel style.

Bespoke Holidays
Tailor-Made Luxury Tours with a Private Driver