
About Morocco
Morocco is located at the crossroads of world cultures, on the one hand, Islamic traditions and culture, and on the other, European countries. The geographical location created excellent conditions for recreation. The country is located near the largest desert, African mountains covered with greenery and the sea coast. On the territory of such a large African state, various Arab and Berber tribes still live to this day. The most popular seaside vacation, as Morocco is washed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The cleanest picturesque beaches are the best place to relax. In addition to the sea coast, there are also mountains covered with cedar plantations, which provide the best opportunities for hiking. The long history of the country has left behind many cultural monuments, and the identity of the local population is another heritage of Morocco.
Geography of Morocco
According to Extrareference, Morocco is a relatively large African state (446 thousand square kilometers), located in the northwestern part of the African continent. The country is bordered by Algeria and Western Sahara to the east and southeast respectively. Separated from Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar. The relief of Morocco is elevated from the southwest to the northeast, the Atlas mountain system stretches. The coast of the Atlantic Ocean has a more flat terrain with sandy beaches, while the Mediterranean is cut by mountain ranges.
The capital
Rabat
Area
The area of Morocco is 446,550 km2. sq., occupies the 58th place in the world by area.
Population
33,241,259 people.
Currency
The national currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
Language
The official language is Arabic, Berber.
Visa to Morocco
If the period of stay in Morocco does not exceed 90 days, then visa-free entry is possible. When crossing the border, you must present a passport and a migration card, which is issued on an airplane or other transport in which you will cross the border of the country.
Weather in Morocco
On the Mediterranean coast, the climate is subtropical and in summer the average temperature is +25 +28 C, but it can rise to +35 C, in winter the temperature does not exceed +10 +12 C. Moving south, the climate becomes more continental with hotter summers and cold winter. However, temperature fluctuations here can reach 20 C per day. The northwestern part of the country is heavily influenced by the Atlantic air masses, and the summers are a little cooler, but the temperature differences are not so high. The weather in the Atlas Mountains depends on the altitude. Annual rainfall varies from north to south, from 500-1000 to 200 mm. The western slopes of the Atlas receive the largest amount of annual precipitation – up to 2000 mm.
Transport
The main mode of transport in Moroccan cities is taxis, as buses are often crowded and this is not the best mode of transport for a tourist. There are several types of taxis here: small taxis with a flag on the trunk and roof can accommodate no more than 3 people, and the fare costs 10 dirhams per kilometer, but since the meter in the car is most often not installed, it is advisable to agree on a price in advance; Grand taxis are similar to minibuses and can fit 6 people, and are intended mainly for long trips. Very often, the Grand Taxi is crowded with more people than it can fit, this fact should be taken into account on long trips.
Currency exchange in Morocco
As of September 2011, the national currency rate is 1 USD = 8.2 MAD. The national currency is the dirham. On weekdays, banks are open from 08.30 to 16.00, and during Ramadan until 14.00. The exchange is also possible in large restaurants and airports, as well as special exchangers. It is not advisable to change money from money changers, as most likely you will be shortchanged. The exchange rate is the same throughout the country. ATMs are common in shopping areas. Almost all hotels and many restaurants accept credit cards. It is not recommended to pay by credit card for small amounts. There is a possibility that an impression will be made of the card without your knowledge.
Electricity
220V/50Hz (European sockets).
Religion
Morocco is an Islamic state and 99% of the population are Muslims, and only 0.8% of Christians, as well as 0.2% of Jews. Despite the large number of believers, about half of them do not observe religious traditions and lead the usual way of life for Europeans.
Security
There are many pickpockets in Morocco, so you should follow the basic safety rules – do not carry money and documents in easily accessible places, keep equipment only on a belt and do not leave anything in the car. In no case should you take pictures of the police and the military.
Health
It is not necessary to have insurance, but it is desirable. Mandatory vaccination is not necessary, but it is best to get a prophylactic vaccination against malaria. It may be difficult to buy certain medicines in the country. Densely populated cities have modern medical facilities, and in the provinces honey. service is at a fairly low level.