Fes The Mediterranean Coast And The Rif, Morocco Travel Guide
Fes has a Mediterranean climate, but with strong influences from its inland location. This means hot, dry summers and mild, often wet, winters.
Climate patterns throughout the year:
Medina exploration, walking tours, and hiking in nearby areas: Spring and Autumn offer the best conditions, with comfortable temperatures and less rain.
Cultural festivals: The Fes Festival of World Sacred Music typically takes place in May or June. If attending is your focus, check specific dates annually and book well ahead, as it draws large international crowds.
40°C+ (104°F+)
Lowest prices, fewer tourists.
Extreme heat, midday exploration hard.
15-30°C (59-86°F)
Fewer crowds, good value.
June heats up; Dec/Feb can be rainy.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
Best weather for exploration.
Higher prices, larger crowds.
Many nationalities do not need a visa for short tourism stays. Citizens from the United States, Canada, European Union countries, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and several other nations enter Morocco for up to 90 days without a visa.
If your nationality requires a visa, obtain it from a Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country of residence before you travel. Application requirements differ by nationality. Visit the website of the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local Moroccan embassy for precise details.
Passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Morocco. This is a strict rule.
Immigration officers may ask for proof of your departure from Morocco. Have a copy of your flight or train ticket ready.
Be prepared to show evidence of having enough money to cover your stay (bank statements or credit card limits), though it is rarely asked for.
Carry printed or digital copies of your hotel or riad reservations. This confirms your planned stay.
No general entry fees. Upon arrival, complete a landing card. Present passport and card to an immigration officer. Process is usually quick.
Morocco can be an affordable destination, with prices varying depending on your travel style.
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD or Dh). The Moroccan Dirham is a closed currency; you cannot officially buy or export it outside Morocco. Plan to exchange your money upon arrival.
Maximize your budget in Fes by adopting local practices and making informed choices.
General prices for common travel expenses in Fes:
Be aware of local conditions and follow practical guidelines.
Traveler's Diarrhea is common. Prevent it by drinking only sealed bottled water, avoiding ice in drinks, and consuming only thoroughly cooked food or fruits you can peel yourself.
Heatstroke and dehydration occur, especially in summer. Stay hydrated with plenty of bottled water. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Seek shade during peak sun hours. The Moroccan sun is strong; use high SPF sunscreen consistently, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. The medina can be dusty; strong smells, specifically from the tanneries, are present. If sensitive, consider a lightweight dust mask.
No specific vaccinations for entry from most countries. You do not need proof of vaccinations unless arriving from a high-risk country.
Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Hep A/B, Typhoid) recommended by a medical professional.
Rabies vaccination for high-risk activities (animal contact in rural areas).
Fes has both public and private hospitals. Private clinics typically offer better standards of care and are recommended for tourists. Pharmacies are easily found, marked by a green crescent sign.
Pharmacists offer advice for minor ailments and dispense many medications without a prescription.
Emergency Services: Call 15 for Ambulance or Fire services. For Police in urban areas, dial 19. For Royal Gendarmerie (rural areas), call 177.
Tap water in Fes is generally not considered safe for drinking for tourists. Always stick to sealed bottled water. Eat at reputable establishments, specifically those with high customer turnover.
A LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle provides an eco-friendly and practical option for safe drinking water.
Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Exercise caution with raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits unless certain of their preparation.
| Category | Details | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Petty Crime | Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur, especially in crowded medina areas. | Be wary of unsolicited "guides". Hire only licensed guides. Solo female travelers may experience unwanted attention; dress modestly. |
| Medina Navigation | Labyrinthine layout; easy to get lost. At night, stick to well-lit main thoroughfares. | Consider taking a taxi back to the closest accessible gate of your accommodation at night. |
| Natural Risks | Earthquakes (smaller tremors), localized flooding from heavy winter rains, extreme summer heat. | Familiarize yourself with accommodation evacuation plans. Stay informed about weather forecasts during winter months. Plan activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day. |
