Tetouan The Mediterranean Coast And The Rif, Morocco Travel Guide
Tetouan has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Spring (March to May) temperatures average 15-25°C (59-77°F), with moderate precipitation. Summer (June to August) brings hot and dry conditions, averaging 25-35°C (77-95°F) with low rainfall, marking peak beach season.
Autumn (September to November) has mild temperatures, averaging 18-28°C (64-82°F) with decreasing precipitation. Winter (December to February) conditions are mild and wet, with temperatures around 10-18°C (50-64°F). This season sees the highest precipitation. Snow is possible in higher parts of the Rif Mountains.
Tetouan’s popularity varies throughout the year, impacting crowd levels and prices.
Peak summer season (June-August, especially July-August) features ideal beach weather and fully operating attractions. However, expect crowds, higher accommodation and flight prices, and intense heat, making extensive city sightseeing challenging. Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) bring pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, with lower prices than high season rates. This period suits city exploration and outdoor activities, though some rainfall may occur. Low season (November-March) has fewer tourists and the lowest prices. Cooler temperatures make city exploration comfortable, and you can experience unique cultural aspects without crowds, though a higher chance of rain exists, and some coastal businesses might have reduced hours.
Crowds & Heat
Ideal beach weather, all attractions open.
Higher prices, intense heat, crowds.
Balance & Comfort
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, better prices.
Some chance of rain.
Few Tourists & Low Prices
Fewer tourists, lowest prices, comfortable city exploration.
Higher rain chance, reduced coastal business hours.
Tetouan experiences no monsoons or hurricanes. Summer heat can be extreme, occasionally surpassing 40°C (104°F) during heatwaves. Winter brings significant rainfall, sometimes causing localized flooding.
City Exploration & Medina: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) have comfortable walking temperatures. Beach Activities: Summer (June-August) provides warm water and ample sunshine. Hiking in Rif Mountains: Spring (March-May) brings lush greenery and mild weather; Autumn (September-November), after summer, also works. Cultural Festivals (e.g., Tetouan International Mediterranean Film Festival): These events typically occur in spring. Check specific dates.
Spring (April-May), Autumn (September-October).
Summer (June-August).
Spring (March-May), Autumn (September-November).
Typically in Spring (check dates).
Stay hydrated in summer, carry rain gear in winter.
Understand the necessary documentation for entering Morocco. This information aids smooth arrival.
For tourism, a visa typically allows stays up to 90 days. The application process varies by nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union (Schengen Area), United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand generally do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Other nationalities apply through the Moroccan embassy or consulate in their home country. Verify your specific requirements well before your trip.
Gather the following documents for entry. Upon arrival at an airport or port, present your passport to immigration officers. They will affix an entry stamp, indicating your authorized duration of stay.
Plan finances for your Tetouan trip, covering currency, exchange, and various travel styles.
Prioritize well-being and security during travel. This section covers health and safety precautions for Tetouan.
No mandatory vaccinations for Morocco from most countries. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio, Hepatitis B) current status advised. Visit a healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized recommendations (Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies).
Routine vaccinations recommended.
No mandatory vaccinations from most countries.
Traveler's diarrhea, sunburn/heatstroke, and insect bites may occur. Prevent diarrhea: drink Bottled water, avoid ice, eat well-cooked food, wash hands. Carry Over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medication. For sun: use High SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, hydrate. For insects: use Insect repellent. Rabies exists, avoid stray animals.
Handwashing and safe water consumption for diarrhea prevention.
Avoid contact with stray animals (rabies risk).
Tetouan has public and private hospitals. Private clinics and hospitals generally offer higher standards of care. Pharmacies (Pharmacie) are widely available, marked by a green cross; pharmacists often provide advice for minor ailments. For drinking water, tap water is not recommended for tourists. Choose sealed Bottled water or use a Filtered water bottle for sustainability and safety. Eat only well-cooked food. Avoid unpeeled fruits and vegetables not washed with purified water.
Private hospitals offer better care.
Tap water is generally not for drinking by tourists.
| Category | Details | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Safety | Tetouan is generally safe for tourists. | Maintain general awareness. |
| Petty Crime | Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded areas (medina, markets). | Be vigilant; secure valuables. Pacsafe provides anti-theft gear. |
| Scams & Night Safety | Tourists may encounter touts or unofficial guides. Caution needed walking alone at night. | Politely decline unwanted services. Agree on prices. Stick to main, well-lit streets at night. |
Here are approximate price ranges for common expenses in Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
80-150 MAD
150-300 MAD
300-800 MAD
Meals:
Street Food (e.g., sandwich, msemen, harira): 10-30 MAD
Local Eatery (tagine, couscous): 40-80 MAD
Mid-range Restaurant Meal: 80-150 MAD per person. Fine Dining Meal: 200-500+ MAD per person.
7-20 MAD (fixed rate within city, bargain for longer distances)
Varies by distance, e.g., Tetouan to Chefchaouen ~50-80 MAD per person.
10-20 MAD
Costs vary based on your travel style. Private guides or exclusive experiences are higher-priced. Consider off-peak travel for savings.
550-1350 MAD ($55-$135 USD). This includes comfortable mid-range hotels, casual restaurants, taxis or shared excursions, and museum entries.
300-800 MAD for a comfortable hotel or riad.
150-300 MAD for casual dining and some street food.
50-150 MAD for taxis or shared excursions.
