Morocco is a beautiful country to visit. It is rich in culture and history, and good rail connections mean you can experience the various draws of each of its major cities easily during a single trip. From traditional Fes with its medieval architecture and vibrant medina, to coastal and modern Casablanca and bustling Marrakech, Morocco has plenty to offer.

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In planning a holiday to Morocco, here are some laws and local customs to be aware of and tips for a hassle-free and enjoyable trip:

1.       The Moroccan Dirham is a closed currency

Importing or exporting more than 2,000 Moroccan Dirham (about £150) is not allowed and you can’t generally get it outside of the country. Make sure you have access to a suitable bank card that will allow you to withdraw cash from an ATM on arrival. Many places will accept card payments, but it is good to carry cash for tipping or when in more rural areas.

2.       Book a professional local guide

The winding souks (markets) and maze-like walled medinas can become overwhelming. If getting lost isn’t your kind of adventure, then you might like to book a local guide to show you around. Be sure to check that your guide is officially operating with the local tourist authorities – your hotel or riad host should be able to help you if in doubt.

3.       Be taxi-savvy

Travelling short distances to and from the airport, train station, or between museums and markets is easy in a Moroccan ‘petit taxi’. These taxis are cheap and usually identifiable by colour, which differs from city to city. In Casablanca they are red, but in Marrakech they are beige. Some petit taxis do not have meters, so make sure to agree a price before setting off – if you are unhappy with the proposed price don’t be afraid to politely decline the driver and wait for another taxi. It is customary to add a small tip on to the fare at the end of the journey.

4.       Respect the rules of Islam, the King and the government

Morocco is a Muslim country and follows Islamic laws and customs. Should you visit the incredible Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca remember to dress modestly and respectfully by covering your shoulders (men and women). Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter any other mosques besides this one. It is illegal to speak disrespectfully about religion or the King and you should be careful not to take photos of government buildings or military personnel.

5.       Stick to bottled water

Tap water is not safe to drink and remember to watch out for any drinks with ice in. Restaurants in larger cities and tourist areas will usually serve ice made from bottled water but ask if you are unsure.

With these tips in mind, you should have a fantastic trip soaking in the Moroccan culture - always washed down with a deliciously sweet fresh mint tea!

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Want to learn more about local laws and customs before you travel?

Prisoners Abroad's 'Country of the Month' campaign looks at lesser known laws across the globe and travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office as part of their #TravelAware campaign. 

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