Health in Morocco: Vaccines, Water, Pharmacies and Emergencies
Morocco poses no major health risk for a well-prepared traveller. A few simple precautions avoid most problems, from an upset stomach to heatstroke. Here is what you need to know.
No vaccination is required to enter Morocco when arriving from Europe or North America. Make sure your routine vaccines are up to date; some doctors also recommend hepatitis A and typhoid depending on your trip: ask your doctor or a travel clinic. The most common problems are stomach upsets: drink bottled water, avoid doubtful ice and prefer well-cooked food. In summer, the heat often exceeds 40 °C in Marrakech and the desert: stay hydrated, wear a hat and rest in the shade. Pharmacies, marked with a green cross, are everywhere, with night-duty pharmacies. In an emergency, call 15 (civil protection and ambulances), 19 (police in towns), 177 (gendarmerie outside towns) or 112 from a mobile. Finally, as the EHIC and GHIC are not valid in Morocco, travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Useful Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Civil protection and ambulances | 15 |
| Police (in towns) | 19 |
| Royal Gendarmerie (outside towns) | 177 |
| Emergency number from a mobile | 112 |
Water and Food
Tap water is treated in the big cities, but most travellers prefer bottled water to avoid stomach trouble, at least for the first few days. Street food is often delicious and safe when the stall is busy and food is cooked in front of you. Wash your hands often and carry hand sanitiser. See street food in Morocco.
Heat, Sun and Altitude
From June to September, heat is intense in Marrakech and the desert: avoid sightseeing between 12 pm and 4 pm. In the High Atlas, climb gradually on the Toubkal trek (4,167 m) to limit altitude sickness. See the Toubkal trek.
Animals and the Desert
Avoid petting stray dogs and cats: rabies is present in Morocco, and any bite needs prompt treatment. In the desert, shake out your shoes in the morning.
Pharmacies and Care
Moroccan pharmacies are well stocked and pharmacists give good advice. For a consultation, private clinics in the big cities are the most used by travellers; they often ask for payment upfront. That is where travel insurance that pays costs directly helps.
FAQ — Health in Morocco
What vaccines do I need for Morocco?
Can you drink tap water in Morocco?
What number do you call in an emergency in Morocco?
Are pharmacies open at night?
Is the EHIC or GHIC valid in Morocco?
In Short
- No mandatory vaccine, medical advice for hepatitis A and typhoid.
- Bottled water, cooked food, watch the heat.
- 15, 19, 177, 112 and travel insurance.
