Morocco Travel Tips Top Guide

Morocco travel tips: Embrace customs, culture, and cuisine for an enriching North African experience.

Morocco Travel Tips - Top Guide

Welcome to the vibrant and enchanting land of Morocco! As you embark on your journey to this captivating destination, here are some top-notch travel tips and guides to ensure you have a memorable and enriching experience:

When to Visit:
Plan your trip based on the season. Winters (Dec-Feb) can be rainy, especially in the north. Spring (Mar-May) is lush and green. Summers (Jun-Aug) are hot, especially in the desert. Autumn (Sep-Nov) sees a gradual temperature drop. The best times to visit are spring, September, and October. Consider Ramadan:
  • If you're visiting during Ramadan, be respectful. Muslims fast during daylight, so avoid eating and drinking publicly. Note that business hours may be reduced, and some places close during the day.
Documents:
Make sure you have all necessary travel documents—passport, driver's license, and visas if needed. Check their validity well in advance.
Solo Travel Tips:
Safety:
  • Morocco is generally safe but exercises common sense. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places.
Solo-Female Travelers:
  • Morocco is welcoming to solo female travelers, but it's advisable to dress modestly and be aware of your surroundings. Consider hiring reputable guides for certain excursions.
Connect with Locals:
  • Engage with locals to enrich your experience. Join group tours, stay in riads, and participate in cultural events.
Places of Interest:
Marrakech:
  • Explore the bustling souks of Jemaa el-Fnaa, visit the beautiful Majorelle Garden, and wander through the historic Medina.
Fes:
  • Immerse yourself in the ancient culture of Fes by navigating its labyrinthine streets in the Medina. Don't miss the historic Al-Qarawiyyin University.
Chefchaouen:
  • Known for its blue-painted streets and buildings, Chefchaouen offers a tranquil and picturesque escape in the Rif Mountains.
Sahara Desert:
  • Experience a magical night in the desert by taking a camel trek and camping under the stars. Merzouga and Erg Chebbi are popular desert destinations.
Atlas Mountains:
  • Hike or drive through the stunning landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. Visit traditional Berber villages like Imlil for an authentic cultural experience.
Health and Safety:
Health Tips:
  • While no specific vaccinations are required, some are recommended (Hepatitis, Typhoid, Rabies, etc.). Check with your doctor. Pharmacies are available in most towns, but rural areas may have limited access to medical care.
Water Safety:
  • Emphasize drinking bottled water to avoid any water-related health concerns. Bottled mineral water is widely available.
Local Beverages:
  • Don't miss trying "Berber whisky", a delightful green tea with mint, a symbol of Moroccan hospitality. Coffee and alcoholic beverages are also accessible in various establishments.
Travel Insurance:
  • Prioritize travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and unexpected events. It provides peace of mind during your journey.
Choosing Accommodations:
Riads and Kasbahs:
  • Consider staying in traditional riads (courtyard houses) or kasbahs for an authentic experience. These accommodations often provide a glimpse into Moroccan architecture and hospitality.
Booking in Advance:
  • Especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance, ensuring you have a comfortable place to stay and avoiding last-minute hassles.
Delicious Moroccan Cuisine:
Moroccan food is a treat for your taste buds, filled with healthy recipes. Meals often feature chicken, beef, or lamb, paired with vegetables, dried fruit, and a blend of flavorful spices. Stick to clean places and avoid raw foods for a delightful dining experience. Must-Try Dishes:
  • Berber Omelet: A tasty mix of eggs, onions, tomatoes, and herbs.
  • Bissara: A thick breakfast soup made from split beans and olive oil.
  • Brochettes: Grilled meat skewers.
  • Couscous: Steamed semolina with a hearty meat and vegetable stew.
  • Harira: A thick soup with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes.
  • Kefta: Ground beef seasoned with onion, cumin, paprika, coriander, and parsley.
  • Tajine: A savory pot dish with meat and vegetables or a vegetarian option.
  • Pastilla: A sweet treat with a mix of onion, chicken, eggs, almonds, and spices wrapped in flaky pastry.
Exploring Markets:
Morocco offers a variety of shopping delights—Argan oil, silver jewelry, Berber carpets, dates, metal and woodcrafts, leather goods, pottery, spices, paintings, traditional clothing, and unique fossils.
Meet the Locals:
Moroccans are known for their social, friendly, hospitable, and generous nature. Immerse yourself in the local culture.
Local Etiquette:
Respect local customs and traditions. In more conservative areas, dress modestly, particularly in religious sites.
Greeting Customs:
Learn basic Arabic greetings like "As-salaam alaykum" (peace be upon you) and "Shukran" (thank you). Locals appreciate visitors making an effort to understand and respect their culture.
Navigating Souks and Markets:
Bargaining Techniques:
  • Haggling is a common practice in Moroccan markets. Start by offering half of the initial price and be prepared to negotiate. It's a cultural experience that adds to the charm of shopping in souks.
Souvenir Shopping:
  • Bargain when shopping in the souks. It's a cultural norm, and you might find unique handmade items at reasonable prices.
Local Currency:
  • Carry small denominations of Dirhams for shopping in markets. Some smaller vendors may not have change for larger bills.
Transportation Tips:
Modes of Transport:
  • Use a combination of transportation modes—trains, buses, and taxis—to explore different parts of Morocco. Trains are comfortable for longer journeys, while local buses provide a more authentic experience.
Navigating Medinas:
  • Medinas (old city quarters) can be maze-like. Embrace the labyrinth and consider hiring a local guide for your first exploration to avoid getting lost.
Flexible Itinerary:
  • Embrace spontaneity. Leave room for unexpected discoveries and be open to adjusting your itinerary based on local recommendations.
Technology and Connectivity:
Local SIM Cards:
  • Consider getting a local SIM card for your phone to have access to maps and communication. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes, but having a local number can be handy.
Photography Etiquette:
  • Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas. Some may appreciate a small tip in return.
Travel Essentials:
Passport & Visa:
  • A valid passport is a must. No visas are needed for stays up to three months for nationals from various countries (British, Australian, Canadian, USA, other EU). Check with the embassy if you're from another country.
Currency Matters:
Morocco uses the Moroccan dirham (DH or MAD) as its currency. Be familiar with it for a smooth shopping experience.
Money Matters:
ATMs are readily available throughout Morocco and found in various cities. Most banks accept credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express in select hotels, guest houses, and restaurants. Euro and US dollars are widely accepted and even preferred in many places.
Time:
Morocco operates on GMT, with an extra hour added during summertime, making it one hour ahead of GMT.
Geographical Snapshot:
Morocco is an African gem, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea (north), Mauritania (south), Algeria (east), and the Atlantic Ocean (west). Covering 446,550 sq km (172,000 sq miles), it's a diverse landscape to explore.
Dialing In:
The country code for Morocco is +212. Remember that all phone numbers adhere to the regulations set by the Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Télécommunications.
Power Play:
Electricity is 110/220 volts AC, 50Hz. Travelers should bring a voltage converter and plug adapter to ensure their devices are compatible.
Respecting Religion:
Morocco is primarily Islamic, so respect local customs. Dress modestly, especially during Ramadan, and note that some sacred sites like mosques and tombs are off-limits to non-Muslims.
Festivals to Note:
Morocco boasts numerous festivals and holidays. Key ones include New Year's Day, Labour Day, Independence Day, and King Mohammed's Birthday. Keep an eye out for local celebrations.
Emergency Contacts:
  • Police: 190 or 112 from mobile phones
  • Gendarmerie Royale: 177 (police outside the cities)
  • Emergency Services/Ambulance: 150
  • Fire brigade: 15
  • Directory enquiries: 160
Airport Contacts:
  • Casablanca: 05 22 53 90 40
  • Agadir: 05 28 83 91 02
  • Marrakech: 05 24 44 78 65
  • Tangier: 05 39 39 37 20
  • Fes: 05 35 62 54 49
  • Ouarzazate: 05 24 88 22 97
  • Essaouira: 05 24 47 67 04
  • Rabat: 05 37 80 80 89
Ensure you have these numbers handy for a safe and enjoyable stay in Morocco!

Final Words of Advice:

Remember, Morocco is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Embrace the diversity, be open to new experiences, and savor the unique flavors of this incredible destination. By planning ahead and respecting local customs, you'll ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Morocco. Happy travels!

Why Choose Us?

50+ Destinations

Our expert team handpicked all the best destinations in Morocco. A memorable experience waiting for you.

Best Price Guarantee

Our pricing are based on good service quality at accurate prices. We will also adapt the tour price to your budget tour.

Travel Experiences

All our tours are enhanced with local travel experiences to make you feel the authenticity of Morocco Kingdom.

Best Rated Reviews

We don't want to exalt ourselves. Here you can get an idea of what our customers say about our services.

© 2015, Trips In Morocco S.A.R.L | All Rights Reserved.