Morocco

WHERE IS MOROCCO

Morocco, located in Northern Africa, is bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and the annexed Western Sahara.

Much of Moroccos landscape is mountainous with the Atlas Mountains dominating the central part of the country.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

I highly recommend visiting this unique country between the months of March to May, and September to October. Not only will you find a beautiful green landscape, but the temperatures are absolutely amazing!

If your main goal is to avoid crowds, visiting in the summer and winter would be your best bet. The mountains tend to be very crowded in the spring and fall months.

WEATHER IN MOROCCO

In general, Morocco has a tropical climate with temperatures anywhere from 35°C (95°F) to 5°C (41°F). This leaves Morocco as a year-round destination for you to explore!

When it comes to seasons, Morocco follows a normal seasonal pattern like most countries in the Northern Hemisphere.

Summer: June-August

  • Average temps of 75°F (24°C)
  • super hot in places like Marrakech, Fes and the southwest of Morocco (near the desert)
  • July or August is when the annual fasting month of Ramadan takes place so many things are closed. Be prepared to observe the local customs and be respectful in public areas.
  • Most crowded season of the year but great for festivals

Fall: September-October

  • Average temps of 75°F (24°C)
  • The most beautiful time to visit morocco
  • Snow will start to fall on the Atlas Mountains
  • Less crowded than the summer months

Winter: December-February

  • Average temps of 75°F (24°C)
  • The coldest months of the year
  • Great for skiing near Marrakech at Oukaimeden
  • Slowest tourist months of the year

Spring: March-May

  • Average temps of 75°F (24°C)
  • Not too cold and not too hot
  • Perfect conditions for visiting the Sahara Desert as well as the Atlas Mountains
  • El Kelaa M’Gouna hosts a popular rose festival during spring

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language: The most common language in Morocco is Arabic. However, many locals also speak French (most common), Spanish (in the north), and English.

Currency: The official currency is the Morocco is a dirham. 1 USD is equivalent to about 10 Moroccan dirhams.

Credit Cards and ATMs: Many established restaurants and shops will accept credit cards but you will need plenty of cash for street vendors and shopping in the souks. If you need to take cash out, there are plenty of ATMs in major cities.

Plugs/Outlets: Most plugs in Morocco are type C and type E. I recommend buying a converter like this to use for your hair products and a adapter like this for everything else.

Safety: Morocco is a super safe place for tourism. With only really small crime there, like scams and pickpockets, you’re unlikely to be assaulted or seriously hurt as a tourist in the country. As always, be aware of your surroundings and keep personal items on your person, out of reach for others.

TRANSPORTATION

Between trains, buses, walking and taxis, you should not have a problem getting around this beautiful country.

During my stay, I heavily relied on walking as well as taxis to get me to/from wherever I needed to go. Fare depends on distance travelled however, after 9 p.m., fares are generally 50% higher.

Morocco’s network of trains, operated by the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF), serves major cities including Fez, Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat and Meknes. This is a great option if you are planning on visiting multiple cities while in Morocco.