Morocco travel tips: language, money and phrases
By Parlo · Checked
At a glance
| Currency | Moroccan dirham (MAD) |
|---|---|
| Plugs | Type C and E, 220 V |
| Emergency | Police 19, ambulance and fire 15 |
| Driving | On the right |
| Tap water | Drink bottled water |
| Tipping | About 10% in restaurants; small tips for guides and porters |
The language
Most people speak Darija, Moroccan Arabic, which is quite different from standard Arabic. Amazigh (Berber) languages are official too, and French is widely used in business, signs and menus.
Phrases worth learning first
All 30 phrases are in the phrasebook, and the dialect page explains how the local Arabic differs from the standard form.
Good to know
- In cities, ask small taxis (petit taxis) to use the meter: say compteur.
- Haggling is expected in the souks; a smile and patience work better than a hard line.
- Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims; the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca offers tours.
- The dirham is a closed currency: change only what you need and keep exchange receipts.
Before you go
Visa rules, health requirements and safety advice change often, so check your government's official travel advice for Morocco before you book and again before you fly. Australians can use Smartraveller.