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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Morocco...
Terrorism
We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco because of the high threat of terrorist attack against western interests. We continue to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets. These include places frequented by foreigners such as hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events and tourist areas.
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
Political developments in the region may prompt demonstrations and protests. You should avoid such gatherings as they have turned violent in the past.
Crime
There are reports of banditry and extortion in the Rif Mountain region and of kidnappings in the coastal region around Asilah.
Crime levels are high. Travellers have been mugged when walking on deserted beaches and poorly lit streets at night. Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching, continues to increase.
Credit card fraud and scams such as substituting inferior goods for those that were actually purchased are common.
Intimidation is sometimes used to force customers to purchase goods. In popular tourist areas, including Tangiers, Fez, Marrakech, Agadir and Essaouira, aggressive begging and harassment of tourists by men posing as official tourist guides is common.
Local Travel
Western Sahara: We strongly advise you not to travel to the Western Sahara because of the risk posed by landmines. There are thousands of unexploded land mines throughout the region, especially adjacent to the border with Mauritania, and there have been reports of exploding landmines.
If, despite this advice, you decide to travel to the Western Sahara you should be aware that travel from Morocco is restricted by the Moroccan Government and you will need to obtain permission from Moroccan authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences, even for possession of so called 'soft drugs'.
Penalties for serious offences include the death penalty.
Homosexual acts are illegal in Morocco and penalties include imprisonment. Heterosexual relations outside marriage are also illegal.
Non-muslims who attempt to enter mosques in Morocco may be detained and deported.
Taking photographs of, or near, government or military installations can lead to detention.
There are strong Islamic codes of dress and behaviour in Morocco, particularly for women, and you should take care not to offend.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Morocco for the most up to date information.
Health Issues
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations
and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful
tips for staying healthy while travelling overseas.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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