Mi Bella Mondo

    EXPLORE MOROCCO

    Your Comprehensive Destination Guide

    At a Glance

    Total area: 710,850 km² (274,460 sq miles)

    Capital: Rabat

    Religion: Predominantly Islam (Sunni)

    Population: 37 million

    Language: Arabic (Moroccan Darija dialect), Berber (Amazigh), and French are widely spoken.

    Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) 

    Banking Hours: Sun–Thu, 8:30 am–3:30 pm; some banks open on Saturday mornings

    Telephone/Communication: The country code is +212; there is good mobile coverage and Wi-Fi in urban areas

    Climate: Mediterranean along the coast, arid inland; hot summers, mild winters

     

    VAT in Morocco

    Morocco offers a VAT refund scheme for non-resident travelers only under certain conditions.

    Who qualifies?

    • Non-resident foreign travelers
    • Must have spent at least 2,000 MAD (~USD 200) in a single transaction at a participating store

    What Qualifies?

    • You must purchase items from approved retailers that offer tax-free shopping.
    • Look for stores displaying the “Tax-Free for Tourists” or “Premier Tax-Free” signage.

    How to Claim:

    • At the time of purchase, ask the retailer for a VAT refund receipt and ensure the invoice is marked as tax-free.
    • When you arrive at the airport (Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, etc.),
      • Present your passport, boarding pass, unused goods, and VAT invoice at the customs desk.
      • Get the form stamped and proceed to the tax refund counter to complete the process.

    Refund Method:

    • Refunds are typically issued to your credit card or through a bank transfer.
    • Authorized third parties, such as Global Blue or Premier Tax-Free, process the refund.
    • Often, they deduct a handling fee (around 10–15%) from the total refund amount.

    Important Notes

    • Refunds apply to goods only, not services (like meals or tours).
    • Export unused goods in your luggage.
    • Not all stores participate — always ask before you buy.

    Travel Requirements

    Entry & Visa

    Passport Validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Morocco. Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

    Visa Policy: U.S. citizens can enter Morocco visa-free for stays up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, you must apply for an extension at a local police station.

    Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Immigration officials may request proof of a return or onward ticket to ensure you plan to leave Morocco within the allowed period.

    Financial Means: Be prepared to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay. You can do this through recent bank statements, credit card limits, or a letter from a financial sponsor.

    Health & Safety Guidelines

    COVID-19 Restrictions: Morocco has lifted all COVID-19 entry requirements as of 2025. No vaccination certificates or PCR tests are needed.

    Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry. However, we highly recommend the following vaccinations:

    • Hepatitis A
    • Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap)
    • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
    • Rabies (especially if you plan to visit rural areas or interact with animals)

    Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Ensure it covers:

    • Medical emergencies
    • Trip cancellations or interruptions
    • Loss of baggage or personal belongings

    If you plan to undertake desert excursions or adventure activities, ensure your insurance explicitly covers them, as Morocco requires specific coverage.

    Additional Considerations

    • Proof of Accommodation: It’s advisable to have confirmed hotel reservations or a letter of invitation if staying with friends or family.
    • Customs Declarations: Be honest and accurate when declaring items upon arrival to avoid complications.
    • Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with Moroccan laws and cultural norms. For example, Moroccan laws restrict alcohol consumption in public and value modest dress, particularly in rural areas.

    Getting there from the US

      • Royal Air Maroc operates nonstop flights from New York (JFK), Washington, D.C. (IAD), and Miami (MIA) to Casablanca (CMN)
      • United Airlines has introduced a nonstop route from Newark (EWR) to Marrakesh (RAK), operating three times weekly
      • TAP Air Portugal offers connecting flights from New York/Newark (EWR) to Casablanca (CMN) and Marrakesh (RAK)

        Several airlines offer both direct and connecting flights from major U.S. cities to Morocco’s key destinations:

      • United Airlines also provides flights from various U.S. cities to Marrakesh

      • Nonstop flights from the East Coast to Casablanca take about 7–8 hours.

      • Connecting flights may take 10–15 hours, depending on layovers.

    Travel Safety Tips

     
    Before You Go:

    Stay Away from Busy Areas

    • Pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets (souks), medinas, and transportation hubs—especially in cities like Marrakech and Fes.
    • Wear a crossbody bag and keep valuables secure and out of sight.
    • Respect Local Customs and Dress Modestly

    Morocco is a conservative country, particularly in rural areas. Modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is advised for both men and women.

    During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

    Be Cautious of Scams

    • In tourist areas, “friendly” strangers might offer unsolicited help or directions and later ask for money.
    • If someone offers to guide you without being an official guide, politely decline.

    Only Use Registered Guides

    • Hire official, government-certified guides for excursions or medina tours. Ask your hotel or riad for referrals.

    Use Reputable Transportation

    • Use registered taxis (agree on the fare beforehand or ask for the meter to be turned on).
    • For intercity travel, trains and buses like ONCF and CTM are generally safe and reliable.

    Avoid Political Discussions

    • Avoid sensitive political discussions in public or with strangers. It’s also best to avoid demonstrations or political gatherings altogether.

    Watch for Traffic Hazards

    • Be extra careful when walking—city traffic can be chaotic, and pedestrians don’t always have the right of way.
    • If renting a car, be alert to erratic driving behavior, animals on roads, and unclear traffic signage.

    Mind the Sun and Hydration

    • Morocco can get scorching, especially in desert regions. Carry water, wear sunscreen, and avoid strenuous activities during peak midday heat.

    Be Careful with Street Food

    • While Moroccan street food is tempting and delicious, stick to busy stalls with high turnover to avoid foodborne illnesses.

    It is advisable to consume bottled or filtered water instead of tap water.

    Have Emergency Contacts Handy

    Save emergency numbers.

    • Police: 19 (landline), 112 (mobile)
    • Ambulance: 15
    • U.S. Embassy in Rabat: https://ma.usembassy.gov

    For Women Travelers

    • Solo female travelers should avoid walking alone at night and may experience street harassment. Confidence, awareness, and modest clothing help deter unwanted attention.
    • Consider carrying a scarf to cover your hair if visiting religious sites.

    Health Safety Tips for Morocco

    Drink Safe Water

    • Do not drink tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
    • Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re certain it was made with purified water.

    Eat Carefully

    • Choose food that’s freshly cooked and served hot.
    • Be cautious with street food: eat at popular stalls with high turnover.
    • Steer clear of raw or undercooked meat and seafood, and peel fruits and vegetables if you’re uncertain about their cleanliness.

    Pack a Basic First Aid Kit that includes items like

    • Antidiarrheal medication (e.g., Imodium)
    • Oral rehydration salts
    • Band-aids and antiseptic cream
    • Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
    • Sunscreen and aloe for sunburn
    • Protect Against Mosquitoes
    • Use repellent, wear long sleeves/pants in the evening, and consider sleeping under a mosquito net in rural areas.

    Be Aware of Heat-Related Illness

    • Summers can be dangerously hot, especially in the desert or cities like Marrakesh and Fez.
    • Avoid strenuous activities in the heat of the day, hydrate frequently, and wear a hat and loose-fitting clothing.

    Vaccinations (Recommended, Not Required)

    The CDC and WHO recommend the following for most travelers:

    • Routine vaccines (MMR, Tetanus, etc.)
    • Hepatitis A
    • Hepatitis B
    • Typhoid (especially if you eat street food or visit rural areas)
    • Rabies (if you’ll spend time with animals or in remote areas)

    Avoid Animal Contact

    • Stray cats and dogs are common. Don’t pet or feed them — they may carry rabies.
    • If you are bitten or scratched, please wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical assistance immediately.

    Medication Access

    • Bring any prescription medications with you in their original packaging and a doctor’s note.
    • Pharmacies are widely available in Morocco, but your specific medication may not be.

    Travel Insurance

    • Strongly recommended! Make sure it covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.
    • If you plan to hike, trek, or explore remote areas (like the Sahara), confirm your policy covers adventure travel.

    Fun Facts!

    • You Can Ski in Morocco. Yes, really! The Atlas Mountains are home to Oukaïmeden, Africa’s highest ski resort. Morocco offers desert dunes and snowy slopes — sometimes on the same trip!
    • Morocco Has a Blue City. The town of Chefchaouen is renowned for its vibrant blue paint job on its walls, doors, stairs, and alleys. Some say it keeps mosquitoes away; others say it reflects the sky or honors Jewish tradition.
    • Couscous Is a National Dish. Couscous in Morocco isn’t just food — it’s tradition. Every Friday, families nationwide gather for a big couscous meal after prayers, topped with vegetables, meat, and fragrant spices.
    • Morocco is home to one of the oldest universities. The University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD in Fez, is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest existing and continually operating degree-granting university in the world. Fatima al-Fihri, a woman, founded it!
    • You’ve Probably Seen Morocco in the Movies. Morocco has starred in many films and shows, including
        • Gladiator
        • The Mummy
        • Game of Thrones (Essaouira and Ait Benhaddou stood in for Astapor)
    • Its desert landscapes and ancient kasbahs are movie magic.
    • Mint Tea Is a Big Deal.  Often called “Moroccan whiskey” (though it contains no alcohol), sweet mint tea is more than a drink — it symbolizes hospitality. Refusing a glass is practically unheard of!
    • You Can Sleep in a Desert Camp. In the Sahara, you can ride a camel into the dunes and sleep in a traditional Berber tent under a sky packed with stars. This is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
    • Morocco Has Four Imperial Cities. The imperial cities are the historical capitals—Marrakesh, Fez, Rabat, and Meknes. Each boasts stunning architecture, centuries of history, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
    • Languages Flow Freely. While Arabic and Tamazight (Berber) are official languages, many Moroccans also speak French, Spanish, and, increasingly, English—especially in tourist areas. Multilingualism is the norm!
    • Goat Trees Are Real. In southwest Morocco, goats climb argan trees to eat the fruit. It’s one of the country’s strangest and most photogenic sights, and it helps explain why argan oil is a big business here!

    Top Places to Visit in Morocco

    Marrakech & Jemaa el-Fnaa

    Marrakech is Morocco’s vibrant cultural and historical jewel. The city blends ancient tradition and modern energy with bustling souks, ornate palaces, and gardens.

    • Jemaa el-Fnaa: The pulsating heart of Marrakech’s old city (Medina). The square buzzes daily with snake charmers, storytellers, fruit vendors, and musicians. By night, it transforms into a lively food market with countless stalls serving traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine, harira soup, and freshly grilled meats.
    • Exploring the Medina: Narrow winding alleys filled with artisans crafting leather goods, ceramics, spices, textiles, and lanterns. Don’t miss the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the Majorelle Garden (once owned by Yves Saint Laurent).
    • Barber Culture: Traditional barber shops are an experience of their own—expect hot towel shaves, face massages with argan oil, and a lively social atmosphere. Visiting a barber is a relaxing cultural ritual.
    Essaouira

    A charming coastal town with a laid-back vibe, Essaouira is known for its seafood, historic medina, and breezy beaches.

    • Explore the ramparts and ancient port, shop for hand-carved thuya wood crafts, sample fresh seafood by the harbor, or kite surf along the Atlantic coast.
    • Atmosphere: Artistic and bohemian, with frequent music festivals and a strong connection to the sea.
    Fes & its Medina

    Fes is Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual center, famous for its sprawling medieval medina—the largest car-free urban area in the world.

    • The Medina of Fes: Get lost in a labyrinth of over 9,000 alleys filled with shops selling traditional crafts like leather, ceramics, and metalwork. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, one of the oldest universities in the world.
    • Tanneries: The iconic leather tanneries with vivid dye pits are a must-see. Nearby rooftop cafés offer stunning views.
    • Spiritual Sites: Fes el-Bali and Fes el-Jdid showcase centuries-old mosques, madrassas, and palaces.
    The Sahara Desert Experience

    Venture into the Sahara for a transformative adventure.

    • Overnight camel treks into the dunes of Merzouga or Zagora.
    • Sleep under the stars in traditional Berber tents.
    • Witness stunning sunrises and sunsets over vast dunes.
    • Explore desert oases and meet nomadic communities.
    Atlas Mountains

    The Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures across Morocco’s heart.

    • Trekking routes are available for all skill levels, including climbing Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.
    • Berber Villages: Visit remote villages to experience traditional life, hospitality, and crafts.
    • Waterfalls and Gorges: Explore the Ourika Valley or the dramatic Todgha Gorge for hiking and sightseeing.
    Chefchaouen

    Known as the “Blue Pearl,” Chefchaouen enchants visitors with its striking blue-washed buildings set against the Rif Mountains.

    • Wandering the Medina: Calm, photogenic streets perfect for strolling and shopping for woven goods and spices.
    • Relaxed Atmosphere: Unlike Morocco’s bustling cities, Chefchaouen is peaceful, making it a perfect place to unwind.
    • Hiking: Surrounding hills offer easy trails and panoramic views.
    Additional Tips
    • Shopping: Morocco is a shopper’s paradise — haggle in souks for carpets, argan oil, spices, and intricate metalwork.
    • Cuisine: Don’t miss traditional dishes like couscous, pastilla (a savory-sweet pie), mint tea, and freshly baked bread.
    • Culture: Moroccan hospitality is legendary. Accept invitations for mint tea or meals when offered.
    • Transport: Train networks connect major cities. Shared taxis and buses serve smaller towns. For desert and mountain travel, consider guided tours or 4×4 vehicles.

    Morocco isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place that shifts something in you. Something quiet and beautiful unfolds between the call to prayer echoing over the rooftops and the endless Sahara sky. You slow down, you tune in, and you begin to see wonder in the everyday.

    “In Morocco, you learn to let go of the map. The magic lies in the act of becoming lost— as we like to say at Mi Bella Mondo.

    Let the colors, the chaos, the calm — all of it — leave a mark. Morocco provides more than just cherished memories. It gives you stories you’ll want to tell again and again.

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