Tour Morocco: The Ultimate Guide

Morocco is a magical country where the colourful surroundings will stimulate all your senses. Whether you want to explore the desert, swim under waterfalls or sniff the fragrant spices in a bazaar. Morocco offers it all. Here you can experience the fairy tales of a thousand and one nights in real life.

1. Characteristics Morocco

In the table below we have noted some characteristics of Morocco.

2. Tips and habits holiday Morocco

Morocco is an African country with possibly other customs and habits than you are used to. We have collected some useful facts for you.

• Homosexuality, also for foreigners, is punishable in Morocco
• For stays shorter than 3 months, you do not need a visa to visit Morocco. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
• Check in advance the possibilities to pay with pin. In many shops and restaurants this is not always possible. Make sure you always have something cash in your pocket (not too much!)
• Grease yourself well - the sun burns brightly in Morocco
• Pass your clothes to the country you're about to visit. Try not to dress too naked. It is best to look around you what the (local) population is wearing and adjust your clothing accordingly. Alcohol is not just sold and poured everywhere. Most Moroccans do not drink any alcohol at all.
• It is not recommended to drink the tap water. Instead, choose bottled water. Also pay attention with ice cubes in drink
• If you are satisfied with a service provided, a tip of 5 to 10% is customary. Think of the waiter in the restaurant, the chambermaid in the hotel and the taxi driver.
• If you want to photograph someone, it is best to ask permission first. Military objects, police officers and for example soldiers may not be photographed. And if you want to photograph street artists, you will have to pay for this
• If you go to a local market it's customary to negotiate. As a rule you can keep 60% of the requested price as a target price.

3. Preparation for a tour Morocco

If you go to Morocco, you will have to make some preparations. It does not matter if you are going to make a tour through Morocco or visit one place. For example, inoculations against Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio (DTP) and Hepatitis A are recommended. Depending on your personal situation, other vaccinations are necessary. You can think of a vaccination against Mumps, Measles and Red Dogs (BMR) if you have never had these diseases. Or if you have not or not completely been vaccinated against these diseases. And depending on the places you are going to visit during a tour of Morocco, vaccinations against tuberculosis and for example rabies can be recommended.

It is recommended to contact a GGD in your area 4 to 6 weeks before the holiday. During the consultation hours you can discuss your specific situation and travel plans. If vaccinations are necessary, they can be set aside in most cases. A visit to a GGD is of course subject to costs. However, these vary per place. Online you can view the exact costs for your region in advance. The consultation costs are around €22. The recommended vaccination against DTP costs about €25 and a vaccination against Hepatitis A costs an average of €55. If you do not yet have a vaccination booklet, you will receive it at the same time as your appointment.

4. Travel advice Morocco

Before planning a holiday to Morocco, it is advisable to check the travel advice of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Basically, Morocco is a reasonably stable country to travel through. However, the Moroccan authorities warn of an increased threat of terrorist attacks. Local measures are taken to increase security.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against travelling to the border area with Mauritania in Western Sahara. It is forbidden to cross the border with Mauritania. This may only be done at the border crossing with the coastal route. It is also forbidden to cross the border with Algeria from Morocco. In other places it is important to keep sufficient distance from the borders. Here the risk of (violent) robberies and kidnappings is higher. It is good to know that in Western Sahara there are unexploded landmines.

It is important to always follow the instructions of the authorities on the spot. You can keep abreast of current developments and the local security situation by, for example, following the local news. Also, your tour operator or the reception of the accommodation in Morocco can give you information and advice.

We'd like to share a few more tips:

• You must have a valid passport that you always carry with you to be able to identify yourself. This also applies to children travelling with you. If you do not always want to carry your original in your pocket, you can also make a copy of it.
• Don't bring (soft)drugs to Morocco. There are high penalties for both possession and use of drugs
• Evaluable things (think of jewelry for example) should be left at home as much as possible. And don't take large sums of cash with you
• If you want to bring a drone, you need a valid import permit. You can contact the ambassy of Morocco in The Hague
• If you're asked to smuggle drugs or smuggle people across the border, never work on this. Here are high penalties and fines
• It is advisable to avoid remote neighborhoods and areas. Of course especially when it is dark
• If you're the victim of a robbery or robbery, it's better not to resist. This often leads to (more) violence

5. Transport to Morocco

You can choose from several airports to fly to in Morocco. In total there are no less than 11 airports. You can choose for example Tangier, Casablanca, Agadir, Marrakech, Fez and Rabat. Several airlines offer direct scheduled flights. However, it can also happen that you have to make a transfer. Check this when booking a ticket. Depending on where you fly to, the travel time is between 3 and 4 hours.

5.1 Transport in Morocco

You're not going on an organized trip to Morocco? If you want to travel in Morocco, you can do this very well with a car. The traffic is comparable to other countries in southern Europe. And the roads are reasonable to good. They are spacious. Only the lights are often missing. Therefore it is best not to travel after sunset. Note that in Morocco the number of (fatal) casualties in traffic accidents is high. This is especially in holiday periods and on public holidays. So be alert.

If you're going to rent a car, you have to pay close attention to the insurance. Always check before departure whether the car is damage free. This will prevent you from being held liable for damage you have not suffered. And don't forget your route planner or a physical map. The signage sometimes causes confusion. Also keep in mind that there are quite a few traffic and speed checks on the road. So do not exceed the speed limit and stick to the local traffic rules.

In Morocco the traffic rules are almost the same as in the Netherlands. The only difference is that traffic on the roundabout has no right of way. Especially in the big cities, traffic sometimes wants to be chaotic. And the roads are very busy. You will also notice that lanes are not always stopped and everyone drives crisscross. You may have to get used to this.

If you don't feel like driving, you can also opt for a taxi. Within the big cities you will find Petits taxis. They can accommodate up to 3 people and they basically work with a meter. Or you can agree on a fixed price in advance. All you have to do is raise your hand to hold them. For longer distances through the country you can use Grands taxis. A maximum of 6 people can fit in here and they only leave when the taxi is full. Don't you want to be cramped and have some extra space? Then you can also discuss to pay for an extra seat. The Grands Taxis can usually be found at the bus station.

You can also choose public transport to get from one place to another. Keep in mind, however, that the quality is not comparable to that in the Netherlands. There are two railway lines in Morocco. On the website of the Moroccan railway company ONCF you will find train times and other useful information. Because of the long travel times by train, you can also opt for a sleeping train on certain routes. The most important means of transport of the locals is the bus. This is also the cheapest way to travel around Morocco. If you are going to travel by bus in Morocco you will notice that these are often crammed with locals. If you are going to make a long distance journey by bus, it is advisable to buy a ticket in advance.

6. The climate in Morocco

Morocco's climate differs from region to region. In the north of the country there is a Mediterranean climate, in the mountains a mountain climate and in the south and southeast you will find a desert climate.

• North of Morocco:There is a Mediterranean climate due to the influence of the Mediterranean Sea. For hot summers and mild winters you have come to the right place.
• Mountains of Morocco: in the mountains it is generally colder than in the rest of the country. In the High Atlas Mountains there is even snow for a large part of the year. There are some areas set up as a winter sports area with slopes and lifts
• South and southeast of Morocco: The desert area in this part of the country is characterized by a hot and dry climate. You will notice large differences between the temperatures during the day and at night. There is also little precipitation in this area.

7. Best travel period for Morocco

In general, it is best to visit the country in spring or autumn. You will then enjoy pleasant temperatures with little chance of rain. In summer the temperature can easily exceed 40 degrees Celsius. If you want to visit cities, it is probably too hot for this. The heat quickly feels unpleasant, also because a cooling breeze is missing. Do you opt for a beach holiday to Morocco? Then of course summer is a good period with high temperatures.

8. Top sights during a holiday Morocco

Morocco offers many special attractions. A popular route is to visit the so-called royal cities. A tour in Morocco along Marrakech, Rabat, Fez and Meknes is very popular. Possibly supplemented with a visit to the desert. Of course you can also choose for day trips from one of these places. Or you can combine a visit to cities with a beach holiday. We would like to list the top 19 sights.

8.1. Hercules Caves

In the north of Morocco lies Tangier. And you have to be there to see the Caves of Hercules. This archaeological cave complex is located at the summer palace of the king of Morocco. The cave is partly made by nature and partly by humans. The Berbers cut stone wheels from the walls to make millstones. This caused the cave to expand considerably. Furthermore, there are two openings - one to the sea and one to the land. The sea opening has the nickname "The map of Africa". Viewed from the sea, the opening resembles the shape of the continent of Africa.

8.2. Medina of Fez

Fez is the former capital of Morocco. And in the old city, the Medina, you walk through narrow streets among the locals. Through the gate in the city walls you enter the Medina. You are then right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. This is where the people live, live and work. Enjoy the delivery of fruit and vegetables with carts. And artisans who sell their products on a stall in front of the workshop. You'll also come across a lot of leather in Fez. The tannery can be found almost in the middle of the historic centre.

8.3. Royal city Meknes

World Heritage List of UNESCO. Meknes is also called the "Versailles of Morocco" thanks to the many palaces you will find there. Take a stroll through the city and look out your eyes. In the city walls you will find some beautifully decorated gates.

8.4. Ouzoud Waterfall

8.5. Mausoleum of Mohammad V in Rabat

In the capital of Morocco you will find the mausoleum of Mohammad V. This is one of the most important funerary monuments of Islamic culture. King Mohammad V is seen as the father of Moroccan independence. The mausoleum is decorated both inside and outside with tiles and geometric patterns. On a huge complex you can admire the sarcophagus of Mohammad the Fifth. By the way, the mausoleum is guarded day and night. The guard of honour is dressed in the traditional clothing of the royal guard - in the summer in white and the rest of the year in red.

8.6. Kasbah of the Oudaya

If you are in Rabat, you should definitely visit the Kasba of the Oudaya. This fortress is listed on the world heritage list. The Kasba was formerly used to defend the city's medina. The high walls are characteristic of the building. At the Kasbah of the Oudaya there is a section where you can see the original walls from 8 to 10 meters high.

8.7. Hassan II mosque in Casablanca

The main tourist attraction in Casablanca is the Hassan II mosque. It is one of the most beautiful and impressive buildings in the country. It is one of the largest mosques in the world. In addition, it is the only mosque that you are allowed to visit as a tourist. Did you know that the roof of the mosque can be opened? Furthermore, you look out of your eyes at all the mosaics, marble floors, painted ceilings and wood carvings used in the mosque. From the mosque you have a beautiful view over the Atlantic Ocean.

8.8 Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech

If you're visiting Marrakech during a tour of Morocco, don't skip the Djemaa el Fna. This is the centre of the old town. This central square is also often referred to as 'the big square'. During the day it is crowded with sellers with all kinds of authentic products. You will also find snake charmers, musicians and acrobats. In the evening the square comes alive with food stands and more entertainment.

If you are only going to visit Marrakech, you should definitely read our article about a City trip to Marrakech.

8.9. Musée Yves Saint Laurent in Marrakech

Fashion lovers should not miss the Musée Yves Saint Laurent during a visit to Marrakech. It is entirely dedicated to the clothing designer and is located on the street that also bears his name. It is no coincidence that the museum was built on Yves Saint Laurent in Morocco. The designer was inspired by the colours and shapes.

8.10. Jardín Majorelle in Marrakech

Do you want to look for a green resting place in the busy city of Marrakech? Then pay a visit to the Majorell Garden. In this botanical garden the colour cobalt blue is central. It can be found, for example, in decorative elements in the garden. In the garden you will find plants from all continents, but especially plants from the cactus family. The garden has long been owned by Yves Saint Laurent. His ashes were scattered in the rose garden after his death.

8.11. Bahia Palace in Marrakech

In Marrakech you will find the Bahia Palace. Did you know that bahia means "shiny and beautiful"? This nineteenth century palace is one of the masterpieces of Moroccan architecture. The building displays both Islamic and Moroccan architecture. The palace has several courtyards and courtyards. The whole contains about 8000 m2. So take plenty of time to see everything.

8.12. Aït-Ben-Haddou

Do you want to see where parts of e.g. Game of Thrones and The Mummy are recorded? Then you must be in the so-called fortified city of Aït-Ben-Haddou. This village seems to be frozen in time. However, the city is mainly known for its beautiful kasbahs, the defensive walls. These are built against a hill and made of loam. The walls are a fine example of South Moroccan architecture. They are fortified with a corner tower and in between you will find narrow alleys.

You can, for example, take a day trip from Marrakech to Aït-Ben-Haddou. On the way you will enjoy the beautiful nature and landscapes. The highlight, of course, is this city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8.13. Oasis Fint

You might not expect it, but near the desert you can enjoy a green environment. Oasis Fint offers lush palm trees. And you get to know the locals. Keep in mind that the journey there is not on a tarmac road, but through the sand. From, for example, Ouarzazate you can make a day trip to Oasis Fint.

8.14. Merzouga in the desert

In the east of Morocco lies the village of Merzouga near the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. If you want to know what a Berber existence means, you should visit it. Of course you do that with a camel safari. To make the excursion complete, you can spend the night in a Bedouin tent.

8.15. Paradise Valley

In the High Atlas Mountains you will find a valley called Paradise Valley known for its small waterfalls and stone pools. You can make a daytour from Agadir to enjoy the mountains and fresh water baths. The palm trees and baths need natural water. However, this is not always sufficiently present in the desert. So it is good to realize that it can happen that there are moments in the year when there is less water present.

8.16. The medina of Essaouira

In the west of Morocco, on the Atlantic Ocean, lies the coastal city of Essaouira. Here you can perfectly practice water sports such as kite surfing and windsurfing. Don't miss the Medina of Essaouira. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Essaouira may not be the most famous tourist city in Morocco, but it is definitely worth a visit. Here you can enjoy the unique atmosphere of the old city.

8.18. Agadir Beach and the Seafront Promenade

In the southwest of Morocco you'll find Agadir. This seaside resort is known for its wide golden beach and bay. You will find many resorts to stay and enjoy the wonderful temperatures. On the beach you will meet joggers, footballers and sunbathers. You will also find camels for a camel ride. The sea is very suitable for surfing or jet skiing.

The Seafront Promenade is about 6 kilometers long. And offers a beautiful promenade for hiking enthusiasts. During the day you can enjoy the beach and the sea during a walk. And when it gets dark you can have a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants along the promenade.

8.19. Souk El Had in Agadir

A souk is an Arab market. And the one in Agadir is one of the largest in Morocco. In the El Had souk you will find more than 2000 sellers under one roof. Walk through the crowds along the market stalls, taking in all the colours and smells. If you are hungry for souvenirs for your home, this is the place to be.

8.20. Crocoparc

From Agadir you can visit the Crocoparc. Here you will learn all about the daily life and routines of crocodiles. The park offers a natural landscape of tropical plants and trees. All this against a backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains. The park is home to more than 300 Nile crocodiles. For a tour of the 4 royal cities as well as a visit to the desert, Morocco offers plenty of unique sights. Plan your own route, book a day tour or go on an organized trip to this special country.

9. Book a holiday to Morocco: compare providers and accommodation

Read more Travel guides...