Travelling to Morocco from the UK: the practical essentials
UK Morocco · · 2 min
Passports, money, time zones, plugs and local customs — what British travellers should sort out before flying to Morocco.
Morocco is one of the easiest long-haul-feeling trips from the UK: flights are short, the time difference is small and British visitors do not need to apply for a visa for a holiday. A little preparation still makes the first days much smoother.
Passport and entry
British passport holders can currently visit Morocco as tourists for up to three months without a visa. Entry rules can change, so always check the UK government's entry requirements for Morocco before you book, including how long your passport needs to be valid.
Money: the Moroccan dirham
- The currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). It is a closed currency, so most travellers get dirhams on arrival — from cash machines or exchange desks at the airport and in towns.
- Cards are accepted in many hotels and larger shops, but cash is still needed in souks, small cafés, taxis and for tips.
- Keep your exchange receipts if you want to change leftover dirhams back before you leave.
Time, flights and plugs
- Morocco is on GMT+1 for most of the year and switches back to GMT during Ramadan, so depending on the season you may be on the same time as the UK or one hour ahead.
- Direct flights link several UK airports with cities such as Marrakech, Agadir, Fes and Tangier. From London, Marrakech is roughly three and a half hours away.
- Sockets are the European two-pin type (220 V), so pack a UK-to-EU adaptor.
Respectful travel
- Dress is relaxed in resorts and modern city districts; covering shoulders and knees is appreciated in medinas, villages and religious sites.
- Most mosques are closed to non-Muslim visitors. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is a well-known exception with guided visits.
- Tipping is customary for guides, drivers and restaurant staff. Agree taxi fares or insist on the meter before setting off.
- Always ask before photographing people.
Insurance and safety
Take out travel insurance that covers the activities you plan, such as trekking in the Atlas or a night in the desert. For current safety information, read the UK government's Morocco travel advice.
Plan your route
Once the practicalities are sorted, use our trip planner to build a day-by-day route with estimated costs in pounds, then ask our team to turn it into a real trip.
