Essential information for Marrakech

When to go

Holidays in Marrakech enjoy a hot, semi-arid climate so it’s a great place to visit all year round, because it never really gets cold. In the height of summer, during July and August, daytime temperatures average at 29°C, which is great for all you sun-worshippers out there.

In the winter, from December to February, temperatures can dip to 6°C in the evenings, however during the day, it generally won’t get below 15°C. Spring and autumn offer a more moderate heat, averaging around 20°C, meaning there really isn’t a bad time to visit.

Health and safety

No vaccinations are required to travel to Marrakech, but measles is quite common in Morocco, so make sure the MMR vaccine you had as a child is up to date. Your doctor will be able to advise on any other vaccinations required, but it’s also advisable to have booster jabs for Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus and Typhoid.

As Marrakech is a large, cosmopolitan city, tap water is chlorinated, so is generally considered safe to drink, although some people find that it tastes different from their tap water at home and prefer to buy bottled. When visiting small towns, or villages where chlorination may not be integrated, bottled water should always be used.

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting Marrakech specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/health.

Passports and visas

British citizens don’t need a visa for holidays in Marrakech, but must have a valid passport. It’s important to make sure that your passport is officially stamped on entry to make your return trip go smoothly. Carry your passport with you as you may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/entry-requirements.

Getting around

Marrakech Menara Airport is an international airport just 20 minutes away from the city centre. Most tour operators include transfers, as part of a holiday package so getting to your resort is easy. Alternatively, the airport bus departs every 30 minutes, while small petit taxis or larger grands taxis are available, too.

Luckily Marrakech was made for walking. In fact that’s all you can do in the historical Old Town, the Medina, where the heart of the souks are integrated into the small alleyways and backstreets. It’s only a short walk from here to the New Town Gueliz, where taxis are available.

If you find yourself in the heart of the Old Town, Jamaa el Fna square, a nice way to explore the area is by Caleches, which is a green horse-drawn carriage, but make sure you quote the fixed rate of Dh120 per hour.

Advice for travellers with children

As Marrakech is just a short 20-minute journey from the airport, it couldn’t be any easier to get your family there. Jamaa el Fna square in the heart of the Old Town is fun for the children. But time it so you’re there in the afternoon when the orange juice stands are open and the entertainers, including snake charmers, acrobat artists, musicians and belly dancers are out.

Away from the excitement of the historical area is the modern part of the city Gueliz, boasting large boulevards and plenty of places to eat and relax. While the beautiful and tranquil gardens at Le Jardin Majorelle are also a lovely place to take the children.

There are a variety of All Inclusive Marrakech holidays available, so if you’re travelling with little ones take away some of the stress by booking a package that includes family-friendly dining options.

Electricity

Connector type: Two-pin plug, type C and E

Voltage Info: 220 V

Emergency information

Dial 19 for the police

Dial 15 for an ambulance

British Consulate

If you’re a victim of crime or affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner contact the British Consulate in Marrakech.

Address: Borj Menara 2, Immeuble B, 5eme etage Avenue Abdelkrim El Khattabi, Marrakech, Morocco

Email: rabat.consular@fco.gov.uk Phone: +212 (0) 537 633 333

Hospital

Medical facilities are excellent in Marrakech and include

Hispital Ibn Tofail

Address: Rue Adbelouahab Derraq, Marrakech Phone: +212 5244-39274

Ibn Nafis Hospital / Mohammad Marrakech CHU

Address: Av Ibn Sina Amerchich, BP 2360, Marrakech Phone: +212 5243-00629