|
Welcome
On this page you will find more information that will help you with your travel preparation. In general, travelling to and in Morocco is very easy. Especially over the past 2, 3 years, very much has been done to improve the infrastructure. If your last visit to Morocco dates from years ago, you are in for a surprise.
If you wish to take the short cut, just remember to bring:
- Small Euro notes and coins
- A pen for filling out the entry form at customs
- Sun protection
How to get to Morocco ?
By Air
Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport is the main international airport, and is served by many of worlds major airlines (Lufthansa, Iberia…) as well as by Morocco’s airline ROYAL AIR MAROC.
Also the international airports of Marrakech and Agadir are easy to reach, as those two cities, respectively being “The Pearl Of The Mediterranean” and Morocco’s Benidorm, serve charter flights from every European country.
By Boat
The small international airport of Tangiers is only served by some (Iberia), but it’s harbour by everyone. You can take a ferry in Algeciras (derived from Al-Jazeera… the island) or Tarifa (which has given it’s name to the word Tariff). If you are travelling without a car, you almost never have to make a reservation, not even in high season.
Read more in Ferries to Morocco.
By Air & Boat
An alternative is to fly to Malaga in Spain, Europe’s top tourist destination number 1 and there fore served by over 70 charters per day, and take the bus to Algeciras (approx. 1,5 to 2 hours). The bus station of Algeciras is right opposite the harbour. In the departure hall of the harbour you can buy a ticket (approx. €80 for a return ticket) for one of the many ferries leaving every hour (or two hours during siesta time).
Fast ferries bring you in 40 minutes to the spanish town of Ceuta on Moroccan mainland, and in 2 hours to Tangiers harbour. The last trip is also the most beautifull - slowly heading through the Gibraltar Straight, with the hills of Spain on your right and the Rif Mountains on your left, and slowly seeing how Europe becomes Arabia… It’s the difference between an LP and a CD.
This last itinerary is ideal if you wish to see the remains of the Moorish’ presence in Spain - a reign that disappeared in 1492 but has given Spain it’s highlights, as the Alhambra in Grenade. But it’s not only the Alhambra, not only the cities of Cordoba or Seville, not only that deliciously surprise called Ronda…the Moorish’ presence has left small wonders of architecture, gardening or squares all over the region of Andalucia.
Travelling in Morocco
Travelling in Morocco itself is very easy.
By Train:
The main train lines are Casablanca to Fes, over Rabat and Meknes / Casablanca to Tangier, over Rabat / Casablanca to Marrakech. The trains are punctual, and the comfort in the 8 seater "compartiments" is good. It is an excellent way to rest, read, see the countryside passing by, and having tea or conversations with your fellow travellers. For more information, see the Map of Morocco
.You can verify the train schedules at the website of the ONCF.
By Bus:
Every town and village has its bus station, or at least bus stop. Depending on the remoteness of your specific location, the drive can be bumpy or smooth, but it is always a good way to get a feel for the real country.
The website of the ONCF also provides you with the schedule of the main bus lines.
By Taxi:
Taxis are not expensive. The Petit Taxi is the small blue taxi you see in every city centre, and it takes you anywhere within the borders of the city. Slightly more expensive is the Grand Taxi, that can take you anywhere, also out of the city or even for a few hour drive. However, this taxi can be shared with others, which is often a good way to reduce the costs. Should your destination be within the city itself, it is better (more economical) to stop a Petit Taxi.
By Rental Car:
You will find rental car offices in every larger town; in general they are located in the Nouvelle Ville or the new part of town. One way rentals are possible with all large or international rental companies that have offices all over the country. Renting a car if often the best way to travel between the two top tourist cities of Morocco, Fes and Marrakech - it is a 2 or 3 day drive, but a beautiful one, and it saves you having to go over Casablanca.
|
|
What to pack ?
Only very light clothing will do in the summer, with one pair of trousers and a light jacket for the evenings. It is advised to travel as light as possible. Remember that the suitcase or travel bag of 10 kg might seem light in your living room, but you will think otherwise in the burning sun of windstill inland Morocco. It is better to bring too little - and buy a product for handwash. Especially small economy hotels tend to have a roof where you can hang your wash to dry - and dry it will, within minutes !
In Morocco applies what applies everywhere (with the exception of Benidorm or the Gold Coast) : beach wear is for on the beach. In all other situations a minimum level of decent clothing is seen as a sign of respect. And what applies in Tanger or Casablanca applies more when travelling inland. A man in shorts in Tanger is a common sight, but the same man in Khenifra can expect to attract many a giggle or frown.
But then again, you are in the country of “Casablanca”. It will bring out the Ingrid Bergman or Humphrey Bogart in you. If you will be visiting cities, then light and smart clothing is what you would want to have with you. If you are travelling in spring, autumn or winter, it is advised to bring at least one set of warm clothes and a rainproof jacket. In all cases sun glasses are indispensable.
Documents
Nationals of the US and EU do not need special preparation. A passport that is valid untill 6 months after return, is sufficient. While boarding your airplane or ferry you will receive a small entry document which will ask you for your contact details and reason of visit. This document is to be handed in at customs at arrival. It is best to have a pen handy.
For other nationals it is advised to contact the local Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco.
Currency/Payment
The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD / Dhs). The currency exchange rate tends not to change very much. Over the past few years 1 EUR has generally roughly equalled 10 DIRHAM, or 1 DIRHAM = 0,1 EUR.
In general the same applied to the USD.
You do not need to carry Dirham notes when arriving, most taxis, hotels and restaurants accepting EURO notes.
The best way to go about is to arrive with small EURO notes, in order to avoid problems when paying the taxi.
However, it is advised to buy Dirhams as soon as possible. You can do so in all banks, or any small business carrying the Currency Exchange sign.
Also you find ATM machines in all bigger cities. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard/Eurocard, American Express) are accepted. Please be aware that both credit cards and ATM machines are not as widely used as in the US or EU.
There fore it is advised not to miss the opportunity - if you see an ATM machine it is better to use it, and not to think that you will easily find an other one.
With the exception of major hotels, banks or car rental companies, payment with a credit card is either not possible either only reluctantly accepted. It is a cash’ world.
|
