Practical information for traveling to Morocco
Located in North Africa, Morocco is a vibrant and colorful destination filled with sights, smells and sounds. With a population of over 3 million, Casablanca is the country's largest city; Fes, Sale and Tangier complete the top four. Marrakech is one of the country's major cities, and a popular tourist destination. It is also home to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK); other significant airports in Morocco include Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca, and Essaouira-Mogador Airport. The currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham, while the country is located in the Western European Time Zone.
Which airlines operate flights to Morocco?
A large number of airlines operate flights from the US to Morocco, with a combination of low cost and regular carriers transporting travelers to the African nation. Air Canada, Royal Air Maroc, Delta Air Lines, TAP Air Portugal and British Airways are just a few. Airports across the US, including those in New York, Chicago and Los Angeles all operate flights to Moroccan cities including Marrakech and Casablanca, with both direct and indirect flights available.
When is the best time to book tickets to Morocco?
Morocco remains a popular destination with visitors throughout the year; nonetheless, during European school holidays such as during the summer months of July and August, the country can get busy with those looking for sunshine and culture. These months can be very hot; for more comfortable temperatures, visit in Spring (April – June) and Fall (September – October). Buying tickets in advance is generally recommended; flights often come at a cheaper price when booked well ahead.
How long is the flight to Morocco?
Depending on your departure airport, the flight from the US to Morocco can vary from around 6h50m (from New York) to around 20 hours from airports such as Portland. Nonstop flights are available from New York to Casablanca, with a flight time of 6h50m; from Chicago, flight time is around 11h50; from Los Angeles the flight time is around 13h30m. Flight times to other Moroccan cities such as Rabat and Marrakech generally take a few hours longer.
What is there to do in Morocco?
In the capital city of Rabat (also the country's second largest city), both Islamic and French-Colonial influences can be seen throughout; popular sights include Hassan Tower, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Meanwhile, the bustling city of Marrakech is a dizzying metropolis known for its souks. Visit the main square of Jeema el-Fnaa; relax in the Jardins Majorelle; and marvel at the Bahia Palace. The Atlas Mountains are popular for trekking, while Ouarzazate – a city found nearby – has featured in a number of Hollywood movies, including Gladiator. Essaouira is another popular filming location; it's a seaside town which has provided the setting for a number of scenes in popular TV show Game of Thrones. A stunning waterfall, the Ouzoud Falls are popular thanks to their natural beauty, while the city of Chefchaouen is known for its blue painted buildings which make for the perfect photo opportunity.