Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Why Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco?
- Marrakech is home to the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in the city.
- The Atlas Mountains span a wide range of elevations, ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 meters.
- The Jemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site.
- Marrakech is known for its traditional Moroccan architecture, with buildings made of clay and mud.
- The Atlas Mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, such as Barbary macaques, ibex, and gazelles.
Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
66° F
|
° F
|
| February |
69° F
|
° F
|
| March |
74° F
|
° F
|
| April |
77° F
|
° F
|
| May |
83° F
|
° F
|
| June |
91° F
|
° F
|
| July |
98° F
|
° F
|
| August |
98° F
|
° F
|
| September |
90° F
|
° F
|
| October |
82° F
|
° F
|
| November |
73° F
|
° F
|
| December |
67° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
1.3 inches
|
| February |
1.2 inches
|
| March |
1.2 inches
|
| April |
0.8 inches
|
| May |
0.3 inches
|
| June |
0.1 inches
|
| July |
0 inches
|
| August |
0.1 inches
|
| September |
0.2 inches
|
| October |
0.7 inches
|
| November |
1.4 inches
|
| December |
1.1 inches
|
Transportation on Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Getting to Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Many nationalities do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Proof of return or onward travel may be requested.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of 220 MAD (~$22) is included in most airline tickets, but confirm with your carrier.
Driving
- Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid for up to one year; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- Driving Side: Right.
- Roads: Well-maintained highways connect major cities, but rural roads may be uneven.
- Speed Limits: Typically 60 km/h (37 mph) in cities and 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of pedestrians, animals, and scooters, especially in busy areas. Parking can be limited in urban centers.
Know Before You Go...® - Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco Travel Tips
Before making their way to Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
1 wordMarrakech |
| Population: |
2019Millions (estimated) |
| Size: |
2007Unknown. |
| Electric Current: |
220 |
| Official Language: |
The official language spoken in Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains is Arabic, specifically the Moroccan dialect. However, many people also speak French due to the country's colonial history. Berber languages, such as Tamazight, are also widely spoken in th |
| Currency: |
Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains offer a unique cultural experience for visitors, which also extends to currency and payment options. Here is a summary of what you need to know when it comes to handling money in these regions:
Currency:
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It is divided into 100 centimes. Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 centimes, and 1, 2, 5, and 10 dirhams. Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200 dirhams.
Exchange Rates:
The exchange rate for the Moroccan Dirham is relatively stable, and it is best to exchange your currency upon arrival to get the best rates. You can do so at banks, exchange offices, or at the airport. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money on the street, as it is illegal and can result in receiving counterfeit bills.
Credit Cards:
Credit cards are widely accepted in Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains, especially in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa |
| Tipping and Taxes: |
In Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains, tipping and taxes are an important aspect of the local culture and economy. Here is a summary of tipping and taxes in this region:
1. Tipping: Tipping is a common practice in Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains, and it is expected in many situations. It is a way to show appreciation for good service and to support the local economy. Generally, a tip of 10-15% of the total bill is considered appropriate in restaurants, cafes, and hotels. In taxis, it is common to round up the fare or add a small amount as a tip. Additionally, it is customary to tip tour guides, drivers, and other service providers, especially if they have gone above and beyond to make your experience enjoyable.
2. Taxes: In Morocco, there is a value-added tax (VAT) of 20% on most goods and services, which is included in the price. However, some tourist activities, such as camel rides and guided tours, may have an additional tax. When shopping in the souks (markets), it is import |
| Dress Code: |
The dress code in Marrakech and Atlas Mountains is conservative and modest, with a focus on covering shoulders, knees, and cleavage, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing. |
| Topography: |
Marrakech is a bustling city with a maze-like old town, while the Atlas Mountains encompass a rugged landscape of peaks and valleys. |
| Telephone: |
Country code: +212
Area code: 524 |
Marrakech & Atlas Mountains, Morocco Weddings and Honeymoons
In Morocco, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Application: File a marriage application at the local Adoul (notary public) or court in Morocco. Non-Moroccan citizens must obtain permission from the Ministry of Justice for the marriage.
Required documents include:
- Valid passports.
- Birth certificates.
- Police record from the applicant’s country of residence.
- Affidavit of freedom to marry (from the embassy, translated into Arabic, and certified).
- Medical certificate issued in Morocco.
- A divorce decree or death certificate from a previous marriage (if applicable).
Translation and Certification: All foreign documents must be translated into Arabic and certified by the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ceremony: A religious or civil ceremony must be conducted in the presence of two Muslim witnesses, as per Moroccan law.
Registration: Register the marriage with Moroccan authorities to obtain an official marriage certificate.
Costs: Marriage fees vary depending on translations, certifications, and officiants. Costs typically range from $50 to $200.
Optional Religious Ceremony: Can be held in addition to the civil registration process. Traditional Moroccan weddings often involve multi-day celebrations.
