Money and payments
Cards and cash
Don't expect to see many banks in the souqs or medinas, although in larger cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one or two inside the large souqs (if you manage to find your way).
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Africa · Northern AfricaOutline guideCountry in North Africa
Photo: Subhros, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Morocco (Arabic: المغرب, Al-Maghrib; Berber: ⵍⵎⴰⵖⵔⵉⴱ, Elmaɣrib; French: Maroc) is the northwesternmost country in Africa. Morocco has, for most people, been the gateway to Africa. With plenty of attractive locations, historical sights, and unique cultural traditions, there's lots to see and do in this beautiful, mesmerising country. At just a few hours from the main European cities, Morocco has everything to overwhelm you with the amazing colours, smells and sounds of Islamic Africa. Imagine bustling souqs and spice markets, stunning mosques, white-washed sea side towns and medieval city centres. With panoramic views varying from snow-covered peaks in the High Atlas to the endless sand dunes of the Sahara, no-one ever has to be bored in this beautiful country.
Answers to what travellers most often look up about Morocco.
Cards and cash
Don't expect to see many banks in the souqs or medinas, although in larger cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one or two inside the large souqs (if you manage to find your way).
Arabic, Berber
The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Berber. Many Moroccans are multilingual.
SIM cards can be purchased, though some vendors require an ID; the card itself is free, the fee paid is credited to the account.
Mobile networks
Water: It is advisable to drink bottled water (check that the cap is sealed - some people might try to sell you tap water in recycled bottles).
Morocco has a public and private health care system. Most of the private sector health services are located in Casablanca, Rabat and other larger cities. Outside the major cities, health services are limited.
Covered in the guide
As in all of North Africa, the dominant religion is Islam, therefore, appropriate religious prohibitions and attitudes should be in order.
Covered in the guide
Attractions, food, stays and travel essentials, with ratings, reviews, opening hours and directions.
the capital of Morocco; very relaxed and hassle-free, highlights include a 12th-century tower and minaret.
the town is a nice example of modern Morocco, best known for its beaches, with less emphasis on history and culture. Take the local bus for a few cents and go 2 or 3 villages north, where there are additional beaches.
this modern city by the sea is a starting point for visitors flying into the country. If you have the time, both the historical medina and the contemporary mosque (the third largest in the world) are well worth an afternoon.
the former capital of Morocco and home to the oldest university in the world, the Qarawiyyin University, in its well preserved old city.
a perfect combination of old and new Morocco. Plan to spend at least a few days wandering the huge maze of souks and ruins in the medina. The great plaza of Djeema El Fna at dusk is not to be missed.
a modern, laid-back city that offers a welcome break from the tourist crush of neighbouring Fez.
considered the capital of the South, Ouarzazate is a great example of preservation and tourism that hasn't destroyed the feel of a fantastic and ancient city.
the starting point for most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain. An enigmatic charm which has attracted numerous artists (Henri Matisse), musicians (Jimi Hendrix), politicians (Winston Churchill), writers (William S. Burroughs, Mark Twain) and others (Malcolm Forbes).
regular destination for mountain hikers, ski enthusiasts, or travellers interested in the indigenous Berber culture
from either of these two settlements at the edge of the Sahara, ride a camel or 4x4 into the desert for a night (or a week) among the dunes and under the stars
desert oasis and access point to the stunning High Atlas
the biggest Roman ruins in Morocco, 30 km north of Meknes, next to the holy town of Moulay Idriss
Places in Morocco on the World Heritage List.
Rabat
Listed 2012
Aït Benhaddou
Listed 1987
Medina of Fez
Listed 1981
Medina of Tétouan
Listed 1997
Medina of Essaouira
Listed 2001
Medina of Marrakesh
Listed 1985
Mazagan
Listed 2004
The Great Mosque of New Fez
Medina of Meknes
Listed 1996
Gate of Chellah
Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City
Listed 2012
List from Wikidata (CC0). Photos from Wikimedia Commons.
Home to several Spanish enclaves and serves as the country's main access point to the sea.
Home of the capital and Casablanca. The first entry point for the traveller.
Home to gorgeous beach towns like Essaouira and Agadir.
Home to major cities like Marrakech and much of the ethnic Berber population.
covering the Middle Atlas mountains and the surrounding areas including Fez and Meknes
The vast desert region of Morocco and the country's least populated region. Offers the traveller a chance to explore a slice of the vast Saharan desert.
Home of Taroudant and offers the traveller another chance to explore another slice of the vast Saharan desert.
Public transport and paid services in Morocco.
By train
Trains are generally the best option because of their speed, frequency and comfort. However, the network is limited, though it travels to many of the main tourist destinations.
By bus
Luxury buses are the next best bet, with almost universal coverage, if somewhat odd departure times in some places.
By tramway
The Casablanca tramway is 30 km long, with 49 stops, and Y-shaped. Tickets cost 6 dirham; buy your ticket before boarding.
By e-hailing
You can hail a taxi or private car with the apps of Careem, Heetch, Roby and InDrive. Uber stopped operations in Morocco in 2018
By taxi
Travel by taxi is common in Morocco. There are two sorts:
By plane
Domestic flying is not a popular means of transportation; however, Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier, has an excellent but expensive network to most cities. Air Arabia is another choice.
By car
In many ways the traffic culture is different from what you would experience in western countries.
Apps for booking a taxi or a ride in Morocco.
Finding apps for Morocco…
Other ways to travel:By thumb
Operators checked against their official websites in October 2026; services that have stopped running are not listed. Logos and Wikipedia links: Wikidata (CC0)
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Casablanca · International · CMN
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Calculated from climate averages: mild daytime highs and lower rainfall. It does not account for festivals, crowds or prices.
Average conditions in Rabat
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. high | 17° | 17° | 19° | 20° | 23° | 26° | 27° | 28° | 27° | 24° | 20° | 18° |
| Avg. low | 11° | 11° | 12° | 14° | 16° | 18° | 20° | 21° | 20° | 18° | 14° | 12° |
| Rainfall (mm) | 66 | 52 | 55 | 38 | 19 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 33 | 55 | 98 | 67 |
| Humidity | 77% | 76% | 76% | 76% | 74% | 73% | 73% | 72% | 74% | 73% | 73% | 76% |
Choose your passport and destination to see whether you need a visa.
Budget
$45
Per person, per day
Mid-range
$125
Per person, per day
Luxury
$330
Per person, per day
| Budget | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25 | $70 | $190 |
| Food and drink | $10 | $25 | $60 |
| Local transport | $5 | $10 | $30 |
| Activities | $5 | $20 | $50 |
Estimate from World Bank price levels (2025). Actual costs vary by city and season. World Bank
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We do not label countries as safe or unsafe. Below is the official advice from two governments, with the date it was last updated. Always read the full advice before you travel.
US Department of State
Level 2 of 4Exercise increased caution
Exercise increased cautionin Morocco due to risk of terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Morocco. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
No advice against travel. Read the full advice before you go.
Before you travel No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: see general advice for women travellers read our guide on disability and travel abroad see general advice for LGBT+ travellers read about safety for solo and independent travel see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad Travel insurance If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. About FCDO travel advice The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. Get travel advice updates Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. Follow FCDO: travel advice on X travel advice on Facebook Travel Aware on Instagram
Stories, itineraries and practical advice for travelling in Morocco.
ItinerariesPlan an epic 7-day Morocco itinerary for 2026. Explore Marrakech, Fes medinas, and the Erg Chebbi Sahara dunes with transit tips and real costs.
8 min read
ItinerariesExplore our Fes travel guide. Navigate the car-free alleys of Fes el-Bali, visit Chouara Tannery, Bou Inania Madrasa, riads, and food stalls.
8 min read
InspirationWhere to watch the 2 August 2027 total solar eclipse, comparing 6 minutes of totality in Luxor with southern Spain, weather and hotel bookings.
6 min read
Travel tipsDriving can be a good option for independent travel in Morocco. The country is comparatively easily accessible by car ferry from Europe, and car rental is readily available.
Wikivoyage
Culture & historyThe Roman Empire was the greatest ancient empire of Europe. At the height of its power in 117 AD, it ruled over considerable parts of Europe, as well as much of North Africa and the Middle East.
Wikivoyage
Culture & historyThe European theatre of World War II (see World War II in Europe) included a major campaign in North Africa and there was also fighting in several other parts of the continent.
Wikivoyage
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