Geographical area Almost 446,550 sq km. 172,413 sq miles

Capital Rabat.

Population Approximately 33 million people (one of the most populous country in the Arab world).

People Most Moroccans are Sunni Muslims of Arab, Berber, or mixed Arab-Berber stock. About three-quarters of all present-day Moroccans are of Berber descent, while Arabs form the second largest ethnic group.

Language  Arabic and Tamazight are the official languages, French, Spanish, Berber and Castilian.

System of Government Presidential Republic with a democracy.

Currency & Exchange rate (June 2008) Exchange rate GBP £1 = 14.4 Dirham USD $1 - 07.4 Dirham    (subject to fluctuation)

Religion Morocco is an Islamic country with 98% of the population Sunni Muslims. The remaining 2% are Christian and Jewish.

Time Zones Same time as Greenwich Mean Time. They don't observe Daylight saving time.

Weather Temperatures in Morocco are generally high, particularly during the summer months from May to September, when the sun can be fierce and temperatures are at industrial levels, so take plenty of sunscreen! In winter (October to February), it does become cooler, especially in the evenings - so take a jacket and some long-sleeved tops and trousers. It is also much chillier in the High Atlas so if you are undertaking our trekking expedition make sure pack a jacket and plenty of layers.

Trading hours 0900 - 1300hrs and 1700 - 2200hrs in summer and 1000-1800hrs in winter, often with a long break in the afternoon. Many shops are closed on Friday and Sunday and hours may change during Ramadan.

Voltage Standard voltage is 220V AC, 50 Hz. Sockets require European plug with a small diameter prong (two round pins). You will need a power adaptor for all electical items.