The Moroccan Atlas: Discover the "roofs of Morocco".

Formalities and visa
To stay in Morocco, you need a valid passport covering your entire stay. Since 18 June 2015, passports have been compulsory, including for groups on organised tourist trips. You can no longer enter Morocco on presentation of your national identity card alone.

If your stay is longer than three months, you are advised to contact the Moroccan immigration service and request an extension, which may not exceed three months. If your situation is illegal, you may be fined or deported and banned from residing in Morocco. To enter Morocco, you need a valid passport. It is forbidden by law to import or export dirhams.

Language
The language of education, administration and the media is classical Arabic; that of everyday life is dialectal Arabic and Berber, spoken mainly in the Rif, Atlas and Souss regions. Most Moroccans speak French, but Spanish and English are also spoken.

Religion
Sunni Islam is the official religion. Christians and Jews are in the minority.

Currency
The Moroccan unit of currency is the dirham (MAD). It is only available in Morocco. It is exchanged in banks and approved establishments. ATMs in major cities accept all international credit cards. Major hotels, restaurants, shops and even some shops in the souks accept credit cards.

Transport
The car is the ideal means of transport for travelling in the Atlas. You are free to stop and enjoy the scenery. The highway code is international and French is used on road signs. You can drive with your French driving licence.

Whatever airport you arrive in, you'll find a plethora of car hire companies at the airport. Check that your vehicle is suitable for your route. If your route includes tracks, ask for a 4 x 4.

The cheaper bus will take you almost anywhere. This is the most common form of public transport in Morocco. Otherwise, there are domestic flights between the major cities, and you can also take shared taxis for certain journeys. If you can, agree the fare before you set off.

In town, you can use small, inexpensive taxis. Likewise, if the meter fails, agree the fare in advance.

Health
No vaccinations are compulsory. Avoid drinking tap water or water from street vendors. Prefer spring water: Sidi Harazem, Imouzzer, Sidi Ali and Oulmès are sold in bottles.

Find out what you need to know before taking a dip in the wadis. Don't forget your bowel pills if you're fragile, and take precautions against insect bites and the sun. No vaccination certificate is required.

Tax
Tipping, or baksheesh, is a custom deeply rooted in the country's traditions. For some, it represents the only source of income. According to custom, it is better to tip little but often. Expect to pay between 10 and 15% of the total amount in restaurants if the service is not included, 10% for taxis, between 5 and 10 dirhams for hotel valet parking, and the same amount for luggage. When you leave the hotel, you will be asked to pay a mini-tax, which will be paid into the tourist promotion fund.