| Country Name |
Morocco |
| Geographical Area |
446,550 square kilometers (386,662 square miles) |
| Population |
33,241,259 (July 2006 est.) |
| Capital City |
Rabat |
| People |
Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2% |
| Language |
Arabic (official), Berber dialects, French often the language of business, government, and diplomacy |
| Religion |
Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2% |
| Government |
Constitutional Monarchy, head of the government is the Prime Minister, chief of the state is the King
|
| Head of Gov. |
Prime Minister: Abbas El Fassi; King Mohamed VI |
| Visas |
All visitors require a passport. Citizens of the UK, EU, US, Australia and New Zealand do not need visas. |
| Health Risks |
Yellow fever vaccination is not required for Morocco. However, the mosquito that spreads yellow fever is present in some parts of the Middle East and Africa. It is important to consult your local travel health clinic as part of your pre-departure plans for the latest details.
Heat exhaustion which occurs following heavy sweating and excessive fluid loss with inadequate replacement of fluids and salt.
|
| Clothing Suggestions |
On the coast the weather is tourist-friendly all year round, although winter can bring cool and wet conditions in the north. In the lowlands, the cooler months from October to April are popular among visitors. This time of year is pleasantly warm to hot (around 90°F) during the day and cool to cold (around 60°F) at night. Winter in the higher regions demands some serious insulation. If you're heading into the hills, the ski season usually lasts from December to March. For most trekking trips you should book in the high season (June 15 to September 15) or you may find areas full. |
| Time Zone |
Greenwich Mean Time, so if it is noon in London, it is noon in Morocco and 6 am in Washington, DC. |
| Banking / Exchange |
There's a wide range of banks available for changing money and cashing traveler's checks and credit cards. Generally, it's quick and easy with rates varying little from bank to bank. Probably the best bank is the Banque Marocaine du Commerce Extérieur (BMCE). Cash advances on credit cards and ATM carry a charge of about 1.5%. |
| Currency |
Moroccan Dirham |
| Electric Current |
The electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz AC. Visitors from abroad who wish to operate personal small electronic items should bring a plug adapter and a transformer. |
| Credit Cards / Traveler Checks |
Larger hotels, restaurants and shops - especially those that cater to tourists accept credit cards – but cash is still the preferred method of payment. Traveler’s checks can be changed at most banks and are accepted as payment at many tourist shops, hotels, and restaurants. Don’t forget to take your passport when exchanging money. Be sure to ask for plenty of coins in small denominations when changing money. |
| Shopping |
Shopping hours vary by the season. In winter, stores are generally open 9 AM–6 PM. In summer, store hours are 9 AM–12:30 PM and 5 PM–8 PM Saturday through Thursday. Though most stores are closed on Sunday, some are also closed on Friday. |
| Weights & measures |
The metric system is standard throughout the country. |
| How to shop Tax Fee |
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| National Airport |
Casablanca (CMN), Rabat (RBA), Marrakech (RAK), Fes (FEZ) |
| Major Tourist Attractions |
Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, Fes, Atlas Mountains |
| Tipping Suggestion |
Tipping is expected in the fancier eateries. Around 10-15% of your bill is usual. A Dirham or two should suffice at the more humble restaurants and cafes. Many porters and guides make a living from generous tips. |
Destinations
Italy
