About Us

Morocco, a Constitutional Monarchy since 1999 under King Mohammed VI, is known for its stability and safety, thanks in part to its structured security system which includes royal, military, tourism, and local police forces.

As a traveler in Morocco, it's advisable for women to dress modestly to respect the local culture. Clothes that are overly revealing might be frowned upon, especially outside the major cities. Although Morocco boasts a liberal Muslim ethos, traditional values still hold strong, particularly in rural areas where you might observe a clear male dominance in public spaces. Women often manage household or agricultural tasks.

Despite modern influences, many Moroccans adhere to traditional dress. Women typically wear colorful djellabas with hoods and headscarves, while men's djellabas are usually in more subdued tones. Family is central to Moroccan life, often including extended family living under one roof.

Respect and etiquette are crucial in Moroccan culture. Always greet with a hello upon entering and a goodbye when leaving a room; skipping this formality is considered impolite. Additionally, many locals, especially in less touristy areas, prefer not to be photographed, so it's best to ask for permission first.

Islam shapes much of the daily life in Morocco, with the call to prayer heard five times a day and many mosques visible across the landscape. Non-Muslims are welcome to observe from outside but should avoid entering mosques during prayer times and are discouraged from taking photos during these periods.

The Islamic faith, dating back to the 7th century, is based on the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed, with the Qur’an as its holy book. The Islamic calendar, which is lunar-based and 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar used worldwide, dictates many cultural and religious practices, including the observance of Ramadan. During this holy month, practicing Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, a practice intended to foster compassion for the less fortunate and purify both body and soul.

While Morocco predominantly uses the Gregorian calendar for civil purposes, traditional and religious practices are deeply intertwined with the Islamic calendar, making it a fascinating blend of old and new.

Morocco's varied landscape offers as much diversity as its rich cultural tapestry and linguistic heritage. Often compared to California due to its similar climate and geographic diversity, Morocco features mountains, deserts, beaches, and forests that create a traveler's paradise.

In the northern part of the country, the Rif Mountains dominate the landscape near Chefchaouen, known for its stunning blue-washed buildings. This region enjoys a Mediterranean climate along the northern coast, offering mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

Further south, the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains provide a lush, green contrast to the arid regions. Beyond these, the High Atlas Mountains stretch across the central part of the country, south of Marrakesh. This range is home to Jbel Toubkal, which rises to 4,068 meters and is the highest peak in North Africa. These majestic mountains serve as a natural barrier, separating the fertile valleys and coastal areas from the expansive Sahara Desert to the east.

The unique topography of Morocco not only enriches its natural beauty but also contributes to its allure as one of the most captivating destinations in North Africa. Join us at Morocco Nomadic Travel to discover the stunning vistas and diverse landscapes that make Morocco truly special on your next vacation.

Official Name: Kingdom of Morocco

Capital: Rabat

Government: Constitutional Monarchy

Monarch: King Mohammed VI

Geographical Location: Located in Northwest Africa, Morocco borders Algeria to the east, Mauritania to the south, and is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, including the strategic Strait of Gibraltar.

Geography: Morocco boasts a diverse landscape featuring mountains, deserts, beaches, forests, oases, gorges, plains, and valleys—a rich terrain that offers endless adventures.

Total Area: 446,550 sq km / 172,000 sq miles, approximately the size of California.

Coastline: 1835 km / 1140 miles.

Population: Approximately 40 million residents, with an additional 3 to 4 million Moroccans living abroad.

Languages: 

Arabic is the official language, with three dialects of Amazigh (Berber) widely spoken. French is commonly used for business and government, while Spanish, English, and German are also spoken.

Ethnic Groups: 

Predominantly Arab and Berber, with Andalusian and Sub-Saharan African communities.

Religion: Predominantly Sunni Muslim (99%), with small Christian (0.8%) and Jewish (0.2%) minorities.

Economy:

• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
• GNP per Capita: Between $2000 to $4100 annually
• Unemployment Rate: Ranges from 7.7% to 15%
• Literacy Rate: Approximately 52%
• Agriculture: Includes wheat, barley, corn, potatoes, tomatoes, citrus fruits, olives; extensive livestock farming
• Natural Resources: Rich in phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, and salt
• Industries: Dominated by textiles, tourism, food processing, phosphates, and construction

Climate:

• Coastal Areas: Mild and humid
• Southern and Inland Regions: Hot and dry
• Mountains: Cold and snowy, especially in winter
• Average Winter Temperature: 18°C/64°F
• Average Summer Temperature: 33°C/91°F
• Hottest City: Marrakesh
• Coldest City: Ifrane

Best Times to Visit:
The ideal times to visit are from September to October and March to May, when the weather is most favorable for exploring the country's varied landscapes.

People of Morocco:
Moroccans are known for being exceptionally social, friendly, and hospitable. They are recognized for their generosity and genuine, easy-going nature, making visitors feel warmly welcomed.

Tourism:
Morocco continues to be a popular destination with over 10 million tourists visiting in 2014 alone. The largest cities are Casablanca, with a population of about 4 million, and the capital, Rabat, home to around 2 million residents.

Time Zone: GMT/UTC

Telephone Country Code: +212

This comprehensive guide offers a snapshot of Morocco, providing visitors with valuable insights into the nation's cultural, economic, and geographic diversity, making it an alluring destination for travelers from around the globe.

Currency Exchange:
In Morocco, you can easily exchange money at banks in major cities and towns such as Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Erfoud, Ifrane, Meknes, Fez, and Tangier. It's advisable to exchange some currency to have cash on hand, as many smaller shops and local vendors do not accept credit cards.

Using Credit and Debit Cards:
While major hotels, department stores, and supermarkets in tourist areas often accept credit cards, many other places do not. However, Visa and MasterCard debit cards are widely accepted at ATMs throughout Morocco. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues, and ensure you know your PIN.

ATMs:
ATMs are readily available across Morocco, making it convenient to withdraw cash whenever needed. Always check for the official logos on the ATM and prefer those attached to banks or in well-lit areas to ensure security.

Shopping and Bargaining:
Shopping in Morocco is an art form itself, especially in markets and souks. Bargaining is not just expected; it’s part of the culture. When you show interest in buying, remember that initial prices might be highly inflated. Start by offering a lower amount than you're willing to pay, and negotiate from there. Be respectful and friendly—enjoy the haggling process as a part of the Moroccan shopping experience. If you decide on a price and then change your mind, be aware that this can be seen as disrespectful. It's best to be sure before you agree on a price.

Paying for Purchases:
Cash is king in Moroccan markets, and paying in local currency (Moroccan Dirham) will give you the best bargaining power. Some shops might have credit card machines, but errors can occur, such as being billed multiple times for a single purchase due to unfamiliarity with the technology. Therefore, using cash is often the safest and most straightforward way to pay.

Traveler’s Checks:
It’s important to note that traveler’s checks are not commonly used or accepted in Morocco, so relying on them for your expenses could lead to inconvenience.

General Tips:
Always be prepared with some cash in Moroccan Dirhams, especially when visiting local markets or traveling in less touristy areas. This ensures you can always make purchases or pay for services without hassle.

By understanding these money and shopping tips, you can navigate Morocco’s financial landscape smoothly and enjoy your shopping experiences to the fullest.

Internet Access:

WiFi is available at no extra cost in all the riads and hotels we use for our clients. While you might find WiFi in your room, it is typically strongest in public areas like lobbies or central courtyards. Internet service in Morocco is generally reliable, but there can be variations depending on the specific location. For those who need constant access, we recommend bringing your own laptop or tablet. Using services like Skype is usually very effective for international calls.

Phone Service:

Morocco has an excellent GSM network that covers most of the country, compatible with European standards. If you want to use your phone here, check with your provider to make sure it will work abroad. For those with unlocked smartphones, purchasing a local SIM card is a great option. SIM cards cost between 20-50 Moroccan Dirhams and allow you to have a local number for making and receiving calls both domestically and internationally. We suggest using Maroc Telecom for the best coverage and rates.

Electrical Standards

:Morocco uses a 220-volt system with European-style double prong plugs (similar to those used in France). Most modern electronic devices are designed to handle 110-220 volts, but it's always a good idea to check your devices before traveling to ensure they are compatible.

Postal Services:

You'll find post offices in every major city and town, though they can sometimes be hard to locate. Postage rates are reasonable, and you can choose between regular or express mail for sending packages. Many local vendors are experienced in shipping items internationally and can handle these arrangements for you.

Health Services:

Public hospitals, private clinics, pharmacies, and dentists are available in every city and town across Morocco. Hospitals and some clinics offer 24/7 service, as do certain pharmacies. Look for pharmacies marked by a white sign with a green crescent moon. It’s possible to purchase prescription medications and over-the-counter treatments like motion-sickness pills without a prescription at a relatively low cost.

These services ensure that while traveling in Morocco, you can stay connected, healthy, and able to handle practical matters like shipping souvenirs or managing health needs efficiently.