Welcome to the Program Participant Resource Center. This webpage was created to serve as the comprehensive resource hub for all our program participants, whether you’re joining us through our faculty-led program or summer abroad programs, facilitated either via our university partners or directly through MOBT Global. Here, you’ll find information curated to enhance your understanding and preparation for your upcoming journey to Morocco. From cultural insights to practical travel tips, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary to make the most of your experience. We are excited to welcome you to Morocco!

 

Quick Facts about Morocco

Capital: Rabat
Population: Approximately 36 million people
Official Languages: Arabic, Berber; French is widely spoken
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Climate: Mediterranean climate along the coast, with hot summers and mild winters; arid desert climate in the interior regions
Famous Landmarks: Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech, Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Chefchaouen’s blue-painted streets, and the ancient city of Fes.
Cuisine: Moroccan cuisine is diverse and flavorful, known for dishes such as tagine, couscous, pastilla, and mint tea.
Religion: Islam is the predominant religion, with mosques and Islamic traditions playing a significant role in daily life.
Geography: Morocco is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, with diverse landscapes ranging from mountains and deserts to forests and coastal plains.

FAQ

Morocco experiences a diverse range of climates due to its varied geography. Along the coast, the weather is generally mild and Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. In the interior regions, including the Sahara Desert, temperatures can soar during the day and drop significantly at night.

Spring (March-May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Morocco, with comfortable temperatures and blooming landscapes. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June - August): Summer in Morocco can be hot, especially in the interior regions and desert areas. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), with some areas experiencing temperatures above 40°C (104°F). Coastal areas offer relief with cooler sea breezes.

Fall (September - November): Autumn brings milder temperatures and pleasant weather to Morocco. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it another excellent time for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.

Winter (December - February): Winter in Morocco is mild along the coast but can be cold in the interior regions and mountains, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it a popular time for desert excursions and mountain trekking.

Comfortable Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect against the sun and mosquitoes, especially in rural areas.
Sturdy Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring cities and hiking trails. Sandals are also handy for beach outings and casual wear.

Travel Documents: Don't forget your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any necessary vaccination certificates. Make copies of important documents and keep them in a separate place.

Personal Essentials: Remember to pack toiletries, medications, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It's also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Daypack: Carry a lightweight daypack for excursions and sightseeing trips. This will come in handy for carrying water, snacks, camera gear, and souvenirs.

Adaptor and Converter: Morocco uses European-style plugs (Type C and E) with a voltage of 220V. Be sure to bring a suitable adaptor and voltage converter for your electronic devices.

Yes, Morocco is a very safe destination for travelers. However, like any other country, it's essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites.
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). $1 equals approximately 10 MAD. It's recommended to exchange currency upon at a local bank and not at the airport for better currency exchange rate. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available in major cities.
Arabic and Berber are the official languages of Morocco, but many Moroccans also speak French, especially in urban areas and tourist regions. English is also spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
Tipping is customary in Morocco, especially in restaurants, cafes, and for services like guided tours and transportation. A tip of 10-15% is generally appreciated for good service.
Morocco is a Muslim-majority country with conservative social norms. It's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. It's also polite to greet people with a friendly "Salaam Alaikum" (Peace be upon you) and respond with "Wa Alaikum Salaam" (And upon you be peace).
Moroccan cuisine is diverse and delicious! Don't miss out on trying tagine (a slow-cooked stew), couscous (semolina grain with vegetables and meat), pastilla (a savory pastry), and traditional mint tea.
The call to prayer, known as the Adhan, is a significant aspect of Islamic culture in Morocco. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to pause and perform their prayers throughout the day. The Adhan is broadcast from mosques five times a day, and its melodious chants can be heard echoing through cities and towns. While the call to prayer is a cherished tradition, it may also impact daily activities, with some businesses temporarily closing during prayer times.
The call to prayer occurs five times a day, starting with Fajr (dawn), followed by Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night). The timing of these prayers changes daily based on the position of the sun, so it's advisable to check prayer times locally or through mobile apps for accurate information.
While Morocco is known for its religious diversity and tolerance, it's essential for Jewish students to be mindful of local customs and sensitivities regarding religious attire. In general, wearing a kippah in public is acceptable, especially in areas with a significant Jewish population or tourist destinations. However, it's advisable to exercise discretion and respect for local norms, particularly in more conservative or rural areas where wearing religious symbols may attract attention. It's always a good idea to consult with program leaders or local guides for guidance on cultural etiquette and appropriate attire during your visit to Morocco.
Please check out the US Peace Corps Morocco Arabic Textbook.
If you have any questions about your program or Morocco, please feel free to email info@mobtglobal.org
If you hold a U.S. passport, you do not require to have a visa. If you hold a passport from a different country, we recommend checking this website to know if you need to apply for a visa.

Important:
In order to enter Morocco: Your passport must be valid for six months following date of entry.