Morocco, a land steeped in vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, offers an enticing adventure for travelers. Whether exploring ancient medinas or trekking through the Sahara, understanding key aspects of travel in Morocco can greatly enhance your experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering costs, health, credit cards, ATM usage, and accommodations in this enchanting North African country.
Compared to European or North American standards, costs for food, accommodations, and travel in Morocco are considerably lower. For budget travelers willing to stay in affordable hotels or camp, indulge in local Moroccan cuisine, and share expenses, a weekly budget of Euros 145 to 245 per person can suffice.
For a more comfortable stay and better accommodations, a budget of Euros 280 to 480 per person per week can provide a good standard of living. And for those seeking luxury experiences, allocating Euros 700 to 1000 per person per week can grant access to high-end amenities and services.
For minor health issues, pharmacists in Morocco are well-trained and can provide a wide range of medications, including some available only with prescriptions in the West. Visiting a doctor or pharmacy might suffice for most ailments. If required, pharmacists can also suggest doctors for a more detailed diagnosis.
In case of serious health concerns, reaching out to the consulate for guidance or accessing private healthcare facilities near major cities is advisable. State hospitals in Morocco usually handle minor injuries adequately, but for severe cases, private clinics and doctors are preferred.
Using credit or debit cards affiliated with Mastercard, Visa, Cirrus, or Plus networks allows cash withdrawals at numerous ATMs across Morocco, excluding those outside post offices. Banks can also provide cash advances against these cards. However, using ATMs ensures better exchange rates than cash exchanges at banks, although card issuers might levy transaction fees.
The typical daily limit for ATM cash withdrawals in Morocco is around 3000 Moroccan Dirhams.
At the lower end of the accommodation spectrum, budget-friendly options are widely available in Moroccan cities. However, many inexpensive city lodgings might feature small doorways, steep staircases, and lack elevators. Beach hotels are more equipped for visitors with mobility challenges, while some package hotels attempt to cater to wheelchair users, though accessible toilets might be limited.
Luxury hotels are where accessibility improvements are more evident, often offering rooms specifically designed for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility issues. These specialized accommodations usually require advanced bookings and come with higher costs.
Understanding these key aspects of traveling in Morocco can greatly aid in planning a memorable and comfortable journey through this culturally rich and diverse nation. Whether opting for budget stays or seeking luxury experiences, Morocco’s allure is bound to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
