Marrakech Travel Guide

Marrakech Travel Information

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round plugs are in use.

Language

Arabic is the official language, but eight other languages are also spoken including Berber, French and Spanish. English is generally understood in the tourist areas, but French is the most widely spoken.

Tipping

A tip of 10 to 15% is expected in the more expensive bars and restaurants, though some establishments include a service charge. Most services are performed with the aim of getting a few dirham, but aggressive hustling shouldn't be rewarded. Visitors should note that tips are the only income for some porters and guides.

Safety Information

Violent crime is not a major problem in Morocco, but there have been some incidents of theft at knifepoint in major cities and on beaches. Sensible precautions such as avoiding badly lit streets at night should be adhered to. Guides offering their services should display an official badge from the local tourist authorities. Most visits to Morocco are trouble-free; however, terrorist attacks have occurred in the past and there is a general threat of kidnappings in northern Africa, so visitors are advised to be vigilant. Be sure to check with your travel agent or tour advisor about the current political situation in Morocco before finalising your travel plans - the area is potentially volatile, and political demonstrations (although they are mostly peaceful) are not the kind of memory you want to take with you from Morocco.

Local Customs

Morocco is a Muslim country and it is preferable to keep the wearing of swimsuits, shorts and other revealing clothing to the beach or hotel poolside. Women travelling alone will receive less hassle if dressed conservatively. Smoking is practised widely, and it is customary to offer cigarettes in social situations. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidd