What to See in Morocco for First Time Travelers?
In Morocco, the most popular destinations are four imperial cities - Rabat, Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, and the world-famous Sahara Desert. Landing in Casablanca as the starting point of your tours of Morocco, you may visit modern capital Rabat for fascinating historic sites first. Continue to discover Fez and Meknes for maze-like medina, the world's oldest university and Roman ruins Valubilis, which date you back to medieval times. Then enjoy the rolling landscape of Atlas Mountain on the way and head to Sahara Desert. You will get impressed by a camel ride deep in the desert and camping under starry sky. With "Red city" Marrakech as the last stop, all these will take 9 to 11 days. If you have longer duration, please don't forget vibrant Essaouira and "Blue city" Chefchaouen, which take another 3 to 4 days and will make your Morocco vacation more complete.
Museum of Cinama, Ouarzazate
Badii Palace, Marrakech
When is the Best Time for Morocco Tours?
The best time to visit Morocco is mid-March to May and September to October, when it is blossoming spring or cool autumn. The weather is pleasant and the temperature is moderate. The Essaouira, Agadir and other coastal regions are perfect for holiday all the year round. Moreover, try to avoid scorching summer heat or chilly snowy winter especially to Sahara Desert.
Do I Need a Visa?
To stimulate tourism, 67 countries and territories are entitled for visa exemption up to 90 days to Morocco, including USA, Australia, New Zealand, most European countries and so on. It makes Morocco one of the most favorable tour destinations in Africa. For the other countries, citizens need to apply for visas in advance. You are kindly advised to check the visa requirements before your Morocco trip.
How to Get to and Travel Around Morocco?
The largest international airport in Morocco is Casablanca Mohammed V International (CMN) and the second one is Marrakech Menara International Airport (RAK). It's only 3 hours driving between the two airports, so both are fine for international arrival and departure. To travel around Morocco, land transfer by vehicle is the most convenient way.
Sahara Desert
Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate
Are There Any Special Customs I Should Observe?
Morocco is a typical Islamic country. Arab and Berber natives make up 90% of the population. Most of the mosques are not open to non-Muslims. It is better for women to dress conservative clothing with shoulders and legs covered, while men wear pants. Eat with right hand especially when you have meal with a traditional Moroccan family. Please don't ever touch a child's head or have physical contact with women. And never take photos of local people without permission. Relax, your private driver guide will remind you of these during your Morocco tour packages.
Do the Local People Speak English?
Arabic is official language of Morocco. Most people can speak French, which is the second common language. Spanish is also spoken in northern Morocco, around Tangier. English is widely used in most tourist cities, like Tangier, Fez and Marrakech. The driver guides speak fluent English.
Are Credit Cards Accepted?
Yes. Morocco is a cash based society and Moroccan Dirham cash is a more preferable way to pay. The main credit cards like Visa and Master are generally accepted in most midrange and high-end hotels, shops and restaurants in tourist cities. Keep enough cash when you have tours of Morocco in isolated regions. It is recommended to exchange money at a bank or an approved exchange office without commission being charged.
Is Morocco a Safe Country to Travel?
Yes, Morocco is definitely a safe country to travel for its non-violent society, and also there is no serious health problem. Morocco government makes efforts to develop tourism and maintain the social stability. The local people are hospitable and friendly to visitors. Morocco is a shining highlight among destinations in Africa.