Away With The Steiners

Travel to Morocco: A Complete Guide (Tips + Morocco Itinerary).  

Welcome to our Morocco Travel Guide! It’s safe to say we love Morocco. It’s April 2024 and we are just wrapping up SIX months of travel to Morocco.

We arrived by ferry from Spain and have hugged and surfed the beautiful Atlantic coastline. We loved the contrast of the famous imperial cities (Fes, Marrakech, Chefchaouen) and desert towns (Ouarzazate, Merzouga and Zagora) heading all the way inland to the Sahara Desert. And we ventured way down south to camel markets (Guelmim), historic settlements (Sidi Ifni) and surfing hotspots (Taghazout, Tamraght and Dakhla).

So now; after six incredible months of travel to Morocco here is our complete Morocco Travel Guide and itinerary with everything you need to know for an epic trip to Morocco of your own! 

In this Morocco travel guide you will find: 

About Morocco, just quickly

Travel to Morocco – the country, the people and its culture

Morocco has a unique history that has largely been influenced by its geographical placement in between Europe and Africa and bordering the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea.  

Size-wise it is a large country and has an incredibly varied landscape and culture in the different directions of each border.  But one thing that is constant all over the country is the Moroccan culture and warm hospitality.  

On the northern Atlantic coast the first cities that welcome any traveller are the coastal towns of Tangier and Asilah.  

Inland, the famous imperial cities of Marrakesh and Fez do not disappoint.  Marrakesh is more modern and popular as a starting point, but Fez is iconic and traditional and definitely worth adding to your Morocco itinerary. 

Agadir, Rabat and Casablanca are Morocco’s other large cities and offer the coastline as well as street food and the famous Hassan II Mosque (the only mosque you can visit as a tourist in Morocco). 

The Atlas Mountains provide truly stunning scenery and are popular as a destination for trekking and exploring or just as a daytrip from Marrakech. 

And hidden away in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is arguably Morocco’s most iconic and prettiest town.

Read more about options to choose the best Morocco itinerary below. 

Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco? 

Citizens of the following countries and territories can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days (unless otherwise noted):

Visa-free entry for Morocco is valid for both airport and land borders for the countries listed above. 

Other foreign nationals wishing to enter Morocco must obtain a visa prior to arrival. 

On July 10, 2022, the Moroccan government launched an e-Visa system to facilitate the granting of visas to foreign nationals subject to this formality.

Best time to visit Morocco

Traditionally, the best time to visit Morocco in terms of the weather is during the spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) months.  This is when the climate is pleasant and summery throughout the country without being too hot for day-time exploration.  

However, in our experience we would also recommend the wintertime (December, January and February) as a perfect escape from the Northern-hemisphere.  And to make the most of the sunshine and pleasant day-time temperature.  Winter is also a good time to explore the south and the Sahara fringes and further inland without overwhelming heat.  Albeit do remember that even in the desert it can get bitterly cold during the night. 

Best time to visit Morocco? Our Morocco travel guide for travel to Morocco.
Stunning sunshine and snow-capped mountains in Ourika Valley in February.

Getting to Morocco

Morocco is geographically located in North Africa.  It is possible to travel to Morocco by air, land and sea. 

Travel to Morocco by air

Morocco has 8 main international airports.  Casablanca is the country’s major airport and hub for the national carrier, Royal Air Maroc.  

International airports in Morocco: 

Travel to Morocco by land

If you want to travel to Morocco by land, know that it shares a border with two countries: Algeria and Mauritania. 

The border between Morocco and Algeria is closed and has been closed for years.  But it is possible to cross the border from Morocco to Mauritania.  

Travel to Morocco by sea

It is also possible – and easy – to enter Morocco at the port borders in the north of the country at:

It is possible to bring a vehicle or motorhome with you to Morocco on the ferry from Europe.  (This is what we did).  

Is it safe to travel to Morocco? 

Morocco is regarded as a safe country to travel to.  Crime rates are relatively low.  And in all our travel to Morocco we have never felt unsafe or questioned our safety. 

The country has seen a huge rise is visitor numbers in recent years as tourists – especially from Europe, UK and USA – are looking for an off the beaten track and unique travel experience.  And along with travel anywhere that is more adventurous, aspects such as public safety, hygiene standards, and societal norms may be different to what you are used to. 

It is expected that you respect and understand its laws and cultural customs and adhere to the status quo. 

Unfortunately Morocco does sometimes have a reputation for scams and pickpockets, especially in the public spaces of tourist hotspots like Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira.  Much of Morocco’s economy depends on tourism and petty crime and ‘tourist traps’ can catch a visitor by surprise.  Keep your valuables safe and carry small amounts of cash.  And as with any travel around the world it is important to be aware of your surroundings. 

Transport in Morocco with such challenges as traffic en-route to the Sahara…

Internet connectivity and WIFI in Morocco

In general, internet and WIFI connection is good (surprisingly so by travel standards) across the country.  Hotels and accommodation in the cities will have WIFI available (at varying speeds).  In the desert regions and further south in Morocco the connection is often weaker.  

If you rely on WIFI for work I suggest tethering to your SIM card with data.  See below, but the mobile networks are often faster and more reliable. 

SIM cards and data

There are three mobile network operators: Maroc Telecom, Orange and INWI.  

It is easy to buy a prepaid SIM card on arrival at the airports and at Tangier Med (ferry port).  And in the cities you will see roving vendors wearing branded t-shirts of the different network providers selling SIM cards and recharge vouchers. 

Data is inexpensive and it is straightforward to recharge prepaid connections using scratch cards that can be purchased at kiosks and convenience stores all over the country. 

Get a VPN for traveling in Morocco

You should always use a VPN when you travel.  And especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.  

Your connection with a VPN will be much safer.  And you will be able to access any content that is typically censored or blocked in Morocco.  

Money, currency and cash when you travel to Morocco

The Moroccan dirham is the official currency of Morocco.

Dirham are available in banknotes of 20, 50, 100 and 200.  Coins are available in denominations of 1/2, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham. 

A historic mosque and the atmosphere of old-Morocco in Asilah.

ATMs in Morocco 

You can find ATMs in the main cities and towns in Morocco. 

Credit cards (VISA and Mastercard) are accepted at mainstream city accommodations, high-end restaurants, large supermarkets and shopping malls.  

However, Morocco is a cash-based society. You will need to always carry cash with you in Moroccan Dirham.   

ATMs in Morocco will give you a maximum of 2,000 – 4000 MAD per transaction (approximately 200 – 400 EUR/USD.)

These are the ATM’s in Morocco we have used (mostly successfully) to withdraw local currency: 

Morocco has fairly high withdrawal charges with a standard withdrawal fee (regardless of amount withdrawn) of 35 MAD. 

How much does it cost to travel to Morocco? 

It really depends on how long you have, where you go and ultimately your Morocco itinerary.  

Typically, meals costs somewhere between 5 and 10 USD.  Accommodation in Morocco usually includes breakfast.  

Food and alcohol in Morocco 

There’s a lot more to Moroccan cuisine than couscous and tajines.  The traditional foods of Morocco are mouth-watering.  

Moroccan dishes are influenced by Berber, Jewish, Arab, Spanish and French cultures. And food plays a very important role in traditional Moroccan culture and is seen as a symbol of hospitality. 

Alcohol isn’t readily available around the country.  But it is legal to drink alcohol in Morocco. Many larger hotels will serve alcohol and in the cities (Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, Agadir) there are restaurants and bars in and around the medina that serve alcohol.

Food in Morocco you need to try

The most common food items you will come across on your travel in Morocco include slow-cooked meats, couscous, bread, dates and sweets and of course, Moroccan mint tea. LOTS of mint tea. 

Mechoui and Tangia in Marrakech (both are a must-try in Morocco).

Language for your travel to Morocco 

Arriving in Morocco you’ll quickly discover that the language spoken amongst Moroccans is an amazing blend of Arabic, French, Berber (Amazigh) and sometimes a little English (or even Spanish). And without doubt the people you encounter and interact with will appreciate your effort at speaking a bit of their language.   

A greeting of ‘Salam’ is always received with a smile. 

Learning the words for ‘delicious’ and ‘thank you’ is essential for your travel to Morocco.

Transportation for your travel to Morocco 

Public transportation is an adventure in itself when traveling in Morocco.  It can be hit or miss with taxis and buses between cities or taking a shared taxi.  The bigger cities like Marrakech and Casablanca have public bus routes within the city but the buses are often old and overcrowded and don’t necessarily follow a route or timetable… 

But, travel to Morocco is an adventure and that is what we are here for; right? 

Travel in Morocco by train

The best way to travel between Moroccan cities is by train.  Morocco now has Africa’s fastest trains traveling at 300km/h (186mph) linking Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca every hour over a new high-speed line.  Classic trains link northern Tangier and Casablanca with Meknes, Fes and Marrakech.

Travel in Morocco by rental car

Renting a car in Morocco gives you the ultimate freedom to explore in any direction and at your own pace of travel. Car rental in Morocco costs between 15 and 50 USD a day. The price will depend on the company that you rent with and the model you rent. Don’t be put off by concerns of self-navigating Morocco.

Travel in Morocco by plane

RAM (Royal Air Maroc) operates domestic flights from Casablanca to six major cities in Morocco.  You will usually have to change planes at Casablanca, unless both points are stops on a single Casa-bound flight. In general domestic flights are expensive, but it will save you a lot of time.

Travel in Morocco by bus

Intercity buses are the most common mode of transport between cities in Morocco and are a cheap and efficient way to get around.  

The most popular bus companies are: 

It is possible to book tickets online for Supratours and CTM or you can book in person at the bus station (easier; and definitely more reliable). 

Buses between cities are reasonably priced with a ticket between Marrakech and Casablanca between 80 – 110 MAD ($8 – $11 USD) per person for the 4-hour bus ride. 

Travel in Morocco by taxi

There are different types of taxis to get around Morocco.  The most common are shared taxis (which in essence operate a bit more like a mini-bus system): 

Morocco itinerary options 

This is the juicy part of our Morocco travel guide.  From here we are going to talk about our itinerary in Morocco as well as the unmissable and best things to do in Morocco and places you need to see.  

It really depends what you want to see in your travel to Morocco.  Because Morocco really seems to have it all! 

So whether you are looking for a relaxing riad, and Instagram-worthy vacation, history, a desert adventure or sunshine and surf.  Morocco truly has it all. 

Ready? 

Yallah!

Make sure a hammam is on your Morocco itinerary.

Three 10-Day Morocco itinerary options 

Here are three Morocco itinerary options for a 10-day adventure (or vacation) in Morocco.  All of the places to visit in Morocco are listed below with highlights and things to do in each place so you can adjust and adapt your Morocco itinerary accordingly.

North to Sahara 10-Day Morocco Itinerary – Option 1

Coast to Desert 10-Day Morocco Itinerary – Option 2

Imperial 10-day Morocco Itinerary – Option 3

There is nothing quite like sunset in the Sahara Desert, Morocco.

Travel to Morocco – Places to visit on your Morocco itinerary 

Travel to Morocco is unlike anywhere else in the African continent.  Geographically the country is long and thus the culture is diverse and different from top to bottom.  We have spent more than six months travel in Morocco.  And we’ve seen a LOT.  

But to summarise travel to Morocco in one Travel Guide we have chosen the likely main stops on your Morocco itinerary and the three best things to do in Morocco for each place. 

Yallah!

Tangier

Tangier is a port city in the north of Morocco steeped in history and entangled in the literal maze of streets in the old medina. It’s hard to fathom that this magical escape to Africa is barely an hour’s boat ride away from Europe. 

Things to do in Tangier

Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a city in the Rif Mountains to the northwest of Morocco and known for the striking, blue-washed buildings of the old town. There are many different theories to why Chefchaouen is so blue.

Things to do in Chefchaouen 

Fes

Fes is a UNESCO world heritage site and home to the oldest and largest medina in North Africa.  The city was once the capital of Morocco and is now regarded as the cultural epicentre of the country. 

Things to do in Fes, Morocco  

Rabat

The capital city of Rabat is often overlooked as a destination for travel to Morocco. It is a modern city today but like it’s neighbours it boasts a rich history with another lively Moroccan medina.

Things to do in Rabat

Old meets new in the cobblestone streets of Rabat, Morocco.

Casablanca

Casablanca is a port city and commercial hub in western Morocco and the largest city in the country. 

Things to do in Casablanca, Morocco 

Marrakech 

Morocco’s most well-known city is a sensory experience of vibrant colours, flavours, smells, sounds and unique sights.  It’s world-famous for the maze of markets and shopping in old city medina but there are plenty more things to do in Marrakech.  

Things to do in Marrakech

The unmissable and iconic blue of Jardin Marjorelle in Marrakech.

Essaouira 

Essaouira is a port city on the Atlantic coast.  Just a walk in the port vicinity feels like more than a world away from Europe. 

Trade winds make Essaouira popular for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. And it isn’t as overcrowded as Marrakech or Fes.  It is one of the most underrated destinations for travel to Morocco.

Things to do in Essaouira

Ouarzazate

The Hollywood of Africa! Ouarzazate really is like a mini-Hollywood in Morocco.  There are many cool sites to visit and the city is just a hop, skip and a jump from the even more iconic Ait Ben Haddou. 

Things to do in Ouarzazate

The weekly Ouarzazate Market is something totally different to see in Ouarzazate.

Agadir 

Agadir is a city on Morocco’s southern Atlantic coastline connecting to the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. 

Things to do in Agadir 

Accommodation in Morocco

Riads –  A Riad is a traditional Moroccan house of palace with an indoor garden and courtyard.  Riad accommodation is generally located withing the old city medinas.

Hostels – Popular especially on the coast in surfing spots like Imsouane, Taghazout and Tamraght. 

Hotels – In the bigger cities you can find high-end and mid-range to budget hotel options. 

Desert Camps – In the Saharan region you will find nomad style camping and glamping offered in the desert. 

Campsites – Morocco has an abundance of camping and motorhome campsites. Read our complete guide to campsites in Morocco.

Souks and markets in Morocco 

Once you have refined your Morocco itinerary and chosen the direction for your travel in Morocco it is time to add in some unique things to see and do for a truly memorable trip.  The weekly markets and souks in Morocco are a fascinating way to get a glimpse of traditional, rural and day-to-day life.  

Here are some of our favourites: 

A friendly vendor at Anza Souk, Agadir.

Planning travel to Morocco – more information

These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family (for five years now) and ones that we would recommend to anyone booking travel to Morocco. 

Read our other guides and articles for traveling in Morocco 

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