Before travelling to Morocco, you must familiarise yourself with a few key aspects to guarantee a seamless and delightful trip. Whether you're exploring the vibrant souks of Marrakech, hiking through the Atlas Mountains, or unwinding on the pristine beaches of Essaouira, being prepared will help you make the most of your stay in Morocco. Thus, before embarking on your journey, spend some time learning about the essential things to know before visiting this exciting and diverse destination.
Generally, while men have more flexibility in their choice of attire, women are encouraged to dress more modestly to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention. Although tourists often wear a variety of outfits, opting for more covered attire is advisable. When visiting mosques, it is essential for both men and women to ensure their ankles and wrists are covered to adhere to the dress codes typically expected in these religious spaces.
In Morocco, Fridays are observed as holy days, akin to Sundays in Christianity. It's a time for families and friends to gather, often staying in to enjoy a traditional meal of couscous. Consequently, many businesses, including cafes, shops, and restaurants, may close in the late afternoon on Fridays. Travellers, especially those in smaller towns, should plan ahead by purchasing food on Thursday evenings for the following day.
Morocco boasts a network of comfortable and economical trains, offering a delightful way to experience scenic landscapes. While the recent high-speed line connecting Tangier, Casablanca, and Rabat marks a significant improvement, traditional trains may not be as fast.
Tickets are easily purchased at stations, simplifying travel plans. For schedules and fares, the ONCF website is a reliable resource, allowing travellers to select their preferred journey and acquire tickets directly at the station without the need for online booking.
To enhance your Moroccan adventure, opt for a professional guide who speaks your language and possesses in-depth knowledge of the country. For city explorations, seek recommendations for reputable, licensed guides from your hotel or the local tourism office. Surfers should consult the International Surfing Association's (ISA) list of certified instructors, ensuring both safety and an enriched experience. This approach guarantees insightful, personalised tours and activities tailored to your interests and needs.
Morocco has a diverse population that speaks English, French, Arabic, and Amazigh, depending on where you are in the nation. Remember that not everyone speaks English. Although there are apps like Google Translate that might be helpful, learning a few simple Arabic words will make you feel more engaged and connected to the individuals you encount
Moroccan taxi drivers hardly ever "have change" when you need it. That's what they tell you, anyway. Hold onto your coins to avoid overspending.
The problem with keeping change is that since they only accept larger amounts, you won't be able to exchange it back when you leave the country. While you are in the nation, you want to be sure you have all of your change before you depart.
Moroccans speak a variety of languages, including Berber, Arab, French, and Spanish, representing the various cultures that have influenced the nation. The official language is Arabic, although you can often hear people on the street speaking Darija, the Moroccan dialect.
French is still commonly used in cities, and newcomers are frequently addressed in this first language. In Tangier, many still speak Spanish.
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Morocco is to fly, which takes around 16 hours and 9 minutes and costs somewhere between INR 26,000 to INR 60,000. Indian citizens need to avail a tourist visa before flying to Morocco. The single-entry tourist visa is valid up to 30 days.
The best time to visit Morocco is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring cities, deserts, and mountains. Summers can be extremely hot, especially inland, while winters are cooler, with snow in the Atlas Mountains, but it's still a good time to visit southern regions and the Sahara.