The epicenter of the earthquake that hit Morocco on Friday, September 2023 was in the High Atlas, the region of Marrakech El’Haouz and Sous Massa, Agadir. 

The closest villages to the earthquake epicenter are: 

Ijokak 

Amazmiz

Oulouz

Imintanoute

Taliouin

Taroudant

Igharm

These are few of the towns that were heavily damaged by the earthquake.

Vaccination requirements for travel to Morocco are no longer required after the COVID-19 period. However, If you have prescription medications, carry them in their original containers along with a copy of the prescription.

• Tagine: from 50 to 150 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) or more at restaurants, depending on the ingredients and location.
• Couscous: around 50 to 100 MAD in a restaurant.
• Kebabs: can cost around 10 to 30 MAD per skewer. These are often sold by street vendors.
• Harira: around 10 to 20 MAD.
• Bread: 1 to 5 MAD per piece.
• Moroccan Mint Tea: A glass of Moroccan mint tea is a popular drink and typically costs around 5 to 10 MAD.
• Pastries: around 5 to 20 MAD per piece.
• Restaurant Meals: from 100 to 300 MAD per person for a three-course meal, excluding drinks.
• Fine Dining: Fine dining restaurants may charge considerably more, with prices ranging from 500 MAD and up per person.
• Prices can vary depending on the city or region in Morocco, with higher prices typically found in touristy areas like Marrakech and lower prices in more rural areas.

Morocco Visa Information:

The Moroccan General Consulate in New York is making the following information regarding Moroccan visas available for us to share with our clients:

The appropriate authorities issue the four types of entry visas for Morocco.

Short validity visa

A foreigner may enter the Kingdom of Morocco’s territory for a short-term. Visa for purposes is more available than immigration for an unbroken period or multiple unbroken periods if they make multiple entries.

Each stay lasts anywhere between one and ninety days.

Long validity visa

The Moroccan diplomatic or consular services will issue a multiple entry visa with a long validity of over three months after consulting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The maximum validity period for this visa is one year, and each stay is limited to between one and ninety days.

A long-term visa holder who intends to stay in Morocco for some time longer than three months must request a registration card from the General Directorate of National Security’s competent services.

Transit visa

Those traveling to a third country from abroad may pass through Morocco with a transit visa. This visa may be granted for one or two transits, with each transit being no longer than 72 hours.

Visa issued at the border

At border crossings, the security services may, in certain exceptional circumstances, grant transit and short-stay visas.

Requests for nations where Morocco is not represented must be made to the honorary consuls or the diplomatic mission authorized in that nation. Requests for visas to be issued at the airport will be sent directly to the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Directorate of Consular and Social Affairs, Rabat (visa@maec.gov.ma), in the absence of these representations.

Important observation:

According to the current regulations, once a visa holder enters Moroccan territory, they are not permitted to change the type of visa they have already obtained. It is necessary to ask for a new visa from the nation where the applicant currently resides.

Documents to be submitted for your application (Tourism visa)

Submitting your visa application

You have three options for submitting your visa application: mail, person, or messenger. Avoid using regular mail when mailing your documents. The only mailing method recognized for applicants who reside in the USA is express mail from the United States Postal Service. You will receive a tracking number from the postal service. Track the progress of your application to us using this number.

If there is a problem, we will get in touch with you after receiving your application. Please assume your application was successful if you do not hear from us.

Your application must be sent in a USPS Express Mail or Priority Mail envelope that is pre-paid and pre-addressed. We will not be able to send your processed passport back to you if this is left out. There will be a tracking number assigned to this pre-paid envelope. For passport tracking, kindly use this number. Applications for visas should be sent by mail to the following address:

Visa Department

Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco

10 E 40 Street 23 Floor

New York, NY 10016

The required documents

Entry visa application form properly signed and completed in capital letters

Two color photos the size of a passport with a white background

A copy of the applicant’s legal status in the US, which may be a green card, an F1 visa, an H1B visa, an L1 visa, an O1 visa, a J1 visa, or a G1 visa. (B1/B2 visas are ineligible)

An I-94 form must be completed if the applicant has an F1 or H1B US visa;

5-Valid passport: The passport’s or other travel document’s validity must outlast the length of the intended stay;

A copy of the passport’s identity- and validity-verification pages;

A bank statement

Alternatively, a properly legalized invitation or, in the case of a family visit, a guarantee that medical costs and potential repatriation costs will be covered

Alternatively, a request made to a licensed travel company, a suggestion made by the Ministry of Tourism, or a statement made by the Moroccan National Tourist Office;

Travel insurance.

Chancery charges

A single entry for up to 90 days costs $23.85

90-day maximum stay with two entries: $35.80

Minors who are applying for visas must submit a notarized letter signed by both parents allowing the child to travel with a named adult. It is necessary to submit the parental consent along with the application.

Applicants who do not reside in the USA

Contacting the nearest Moroccan Consulate or Embassy is required for citizens of nations other than the USA.

Caribbean island residents should provide contact information for the Moroccan Embassy in the Dominican Republic or Saint Lucia

At the time of visa issuance, please provide the following documents:  

While we process your visa, you might be asked to provide the following information: Until we get in touch with you, do not send or submit anything.

A copy of round trip flight itinerary;

A hotel booking or Introduction of a “Voucher”;

Method of payment

This general consulate does not accept personal checks, so thank you for your understanding. When submitting an application in person at the New York office or through the mail, you can pay with a money order. Cash should not be sent through the mail.

Make checks payable to the General Consulate of the Kingdom of Morocco for all payments.

NOTE:

If additional documentation is required, the visa officer reserves the right to request it.

The fulfillment of these conditions does not ensure that the applicant will be granted a visa to enter Morocco.

Disclaimer

The General Consulate of the Kingdom of Morocco shall not be liable to any applicant. For a visa or to any other person relying on or benefiting from any application, for a visa for any commitment, cost, or expenditure incurred in reliance on or anticipation of receiving a Moroccan visa. whether within a specific timeframe or at all, including but not limited to air travel, hotel, and other travel and accommodation arrangements, and any other arrangements made.

Important Information

Visa pick-up and drop-off hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Please make sure to create a separate file for each applicant when applying on behalf of a family. Do not put all the documents in one file, please.

Kindly refrain from stapling pages together. As a result, more work is added.

For other types of visas, visit https://www.consulat.ma/

We appreciate your interest in traveling to Morocco, a country known for its hospitality.

Yes, you can use your mobile phone to take pictures while in Morocco. Mobile phone usage, including photography, is common and widely accepted throughout the country. Morocco offers a wealth of picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant markets, making it a great destination for photography. You can capture the beauty of the cities, the desert, the Atlas Mountains, and more with your mobile phone camera. Just be respectful of local customs and privacy when taking photos, especially of people, and ask for permission if necessary. Additionally, ensure your phone is charged and consider carrying a portable charger or power bank, especially if you plan to use your phone for photography extensively.

Internet access in Morocco is generally reliable and accessible, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations. Many hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi to customers, and purchasing a local SIM card with data access is easy and affordable. Major cities like Casablanca and Marrakech have high-speed internet, but rural areas may have variable speeds. While internet usage is generally open, occasional reports of government censorship or monitoring exist, so it’s advisable to stay informed about any local regulations and exercise caution when discussing sensitive topics online. Keep in mind that the status of internet access and regulations can change, so it’s wise to check for updates before your trip.

Yes, you can drink beer in Morocco. Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and while the majority of the population follows Islam, it is not a dry country. Alcohol is available in many restaurants, bars, and hotels, especially in tourist areas and larger cities. Moroccan beer brands such as Flag Speciale, Casablanca, and Stork are commonly available. You can also find international beer brands in some places. However, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Public displays of drunkenness or drinking in public places are generally frowned upon, and it’s best to consume alcohol in designated areas or establishments that serve it. Additionally, during Islamic holidays and during Ramadan, some restaurants and bars may have restricted hours or may not serve alcohol, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time if you plan to drink during your visit.

Yes, you can use credit and debit cards in Morocco, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Most international cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some Moroccan Dirhams (cash) for places where card acceptance may be limited, such as smaller towns and markets.

bathroom experiences can range from modern and comfortable to basic and traditional, depending on the location and type of establishment.

Morocco celebrates several holidays and festivals throughout the year, including Islamic, national, and cultural holidays. Some of the famous holidays and festivals celebrated in Morocco include:

• Islamic Holidays:
• Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion marked by communal prayers, feasting, and giving of gifts.
• Eid al-Adha: Also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, it commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Families often sacrifice an animal and share the meat with those in need.
• Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): This holiday marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. While it is not as elaborate as Eid, it’s a day of reflection and prayer.
• National Holidays:
• Independence Day (Fête de l’Indépendance): Celebrated on March 2nd, this holiday marks Morocco’s independence from French and Spanish colonial rule in 1956.
• Throne Day (Fête du Trône): Celebrated on July 30th, this holiday marks the anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne and is a day of national unity and celebration.
• Cultural and Traditional Festivals:
• Mawazine Festival: This international music festival, held in Rabat, features a diverse range of musical genres and renowned artists from around the world.
• Fes Festival of World Sacred Music: Held annually in Fes, this festival celebrates the world’s spiritual music traditions through concerts, workshops, and discussions.
• Imilchil Marriage Festival: Also known as the “Festival of Brides,” it is a traditional Berber event where local young people meet potential spouses. It takes place in the High Atlas Mountains.
• New Year’s Eve: While not an official holiday, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with enthusiasm in urban areas, with parties, fireworks, and special events.

These are just a few of the holidays and festivals celebrated in Morocco. 

Yes, ATMs are readily available in Morocco, especially in major cities and tourist areas. You can find ATMs operated by various banks throughout the country. It’s advisable to use ATMs associated with reputable banks or major financial institutions to ensure security and reliability.

Yes. In the last few years, women’s travel in Morocco become popular and several groups of women from different countries in the world had a wonderful experience in Morocco. All tourist facilities in Morocco welcome women’s travel alone and they offer them a great tourism service as the usual one. However, it’s important to note that attitudes can vary in different regions and among different people, so it’s important to respect the Moroccan culture and to avoid any bad attitude in public places.

Morocco is a predominantly conservative Muslim country, and LGBTQIA+ travelers may face certain challenges and legal restrictions. Same-sex sexual activity is criminalized under Moroccan law, and societal attitudes toward LGBTQIA+ individuals can be conservative. As a result, LGBTQIA+ travelers should exercise discretion and avoid public displays of affection. However, it’s important to note that attitudes can vary in different regions and among different people, and there is a growing LGBTQIA+ community in larger cities like Casablanca and Marrakech. Travelers are advised to research the latest developments, respect local customs and laws, and consider their comfort level and safety when visiting Morocco.

Morocco offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. 

In cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca: you can find a mix of luxury hotels, charming riads (traditional guesthouses), and budget-friendly hostels. 

In the Sahara Desert around Merzouga: unique desert camps offer an authentic and unforgettable experience. 

Along the coast, cities like Essaouira: offer beachfront hotels and guesthouses. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a riad within the medina (old town) of a historic city to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture. 

Ultimately, the choice of where to stay depends on your travel itinerary and personal preferences, whether you seek luxury, cultural authenticity, or budget-friendly options.

Morocco is divided into two types: Modern in the large cities and dressing in these cities is more Westerner and conservative in towns and small cities. When visiting Morocco, it’s advisable to dress modestly and respect local customs. For women, this means wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved tops, ankle-length skirts or pants, and sometimes a headscarf in conservative areas. Men should opt for long pants and modest attire. Closed-toe shoes are practical for walking, and swimwear is acceptable at beaches and pools but cover up when leaving these areas. Overall, dressing conservatively not only shows respect for the local culture but also helps you blend in and feel comfortable while exploring this diverse and vibrant country.

Getting around Morocco can be an exciting and diverse experience, as the country offers several transportation options to suit your preferences and travel needs. Here are some common ways to get around Morocco:

• Public Transport:
• Buses: Morocco has an extensive network of intercity and long-distance buses. Companies like CTM, Supratours, and others provide reliable bus services connecting major cities and towns.
• Trains: Morocco’s train system, operated by ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer), connects major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, and Fez. Trains are comfortable and relatively fast.
• Shared Taxis:
• In many Moroccan cities, you’ll find shared taxis known as “grand taxis.” These are typically old Mercedes sedans that transport passengers between cities and towns. You can share the ride with other passengers, making it a cost-effective option.
• Metros and Trams:
• Cities like Casablanca and Rabat have metro and tram systems that can help you get around within the city.
• Private Taxis:
• In urban areas, you can easily find private taxis. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your ride or ask the driver to use the meter if available.
• Car Rentals:
• If you want more flexibility and plan to explore rural areas or less touristy places, renting a car is an option. However, be prepared for sometimes challenging driving conditions, especially in the Atlas Mountains.
• Motorcycles and Scooters:
• In some cities, you can rent motorcycles or scooters if you’re comfortable with two-wheeled transportation.

While travel insurance is not legally required to enter Morocco, it is highly recommended for anyone planning a trip there alone. Travel insurance provides valuable protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, or other unforeseen circumstances. If you’re traveling with a Morocco travel agency they take off consideration your travel insurance.  

Staying safe and healthy while traveling in Morocco is essential for an enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and maintain your well-being during your visit:

• Travel Insurance: Before your trip, purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.
• Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices by washing your hands regularly, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding touching your face, especially before eating.
• Food and Water Safety:
• Drink bottled water, and avoid tap water or ice in drinks.
• Consume only well-cooked and hot food.
• Be cautious with street food; choose vendors with good hygiene practices.
• Peel fruits and vegetables or eat them cooked.
• Sun Protection: Morocco has a sunny climate in some cities and regions like the Sahra Desert, so use sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays.
• Safety Precautions:
• Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, to prevent theft.
• Travel with a money belt or concealed pouch for important documents and valuables.
• Use reputable transportation options and avoid hitchhiking.
• Stay in well-established accommodations, especially in less touristy areas.
• Cultural Sensitivity:
• Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when it comes to clothing and behavior, especially in more conservative areas.
• Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
• Language: Learning some basic Arabic phrases or French (both are widely spoken) can help you navigate and communicate better with locals.
• Local Guidance: Consider hiring local guides or joining group tours, especially for activities like trekking in the desert or hiking in the Atlas Mountains.
• Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, such as the local police (17), medical services (15), and the tourist police (ambassadors known as “Polices Touristiques” in major cities).
• Travel with Medications: If you have prescription medications, carry them in their original containers along with a copy of the prescription. Ensure you have an adequate supply for your trip.
• Travel Documents: Keep copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and important contact numbers in a separate location from the originals.
• Local Currency: Carry a mix of cash (Moroccan Dirhams) and cards for payment. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards.

By following these safety and health guidelines, you can enhance your travel experience in Morocco and minimize potential risks, allowing you to enjoy the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities that the country has to offer. Travel with a Moroccan agency will save you time, and money, and guarantee your safety. 

Traveling on a small group tour in Morocco offers the convenience of expert guidance, well-planned itineraries, and the opportunity to share experiences with like-minded travelers. With knowledgeable tour guides, logistics taken care of, and the chance to explore the country’s cultural and historical highlights, it’s a hassle-free way to discover Morocco’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. While you may have less flexibility and a set schedule, the camaraderie and safety of traveling in a group, along with unique cultural experiences, make it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and well-organized Moroccan adventure.

Private or a group Morocco tour depending on your personality. If you are a social person who loves to know people and make relations with others, know other cultures, and belong to a community, group tours are the best choice for him/her. However, if you are close to yourself and you are not social, it’s better to travel on a private or customized tour.