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Morocco Travel Guide

Selected resources, embassies and consulates, currency converter, getting here, health advice, touring routes, train stations, travel essentials, ancient morocco, arabic and french, business and economy, celebrations, famous moroccans, weddings customs, city guide by region, things to do and see, art galleries, heritage sites, national parks, theatres and performing arts, adventure travel, dakar rally, hot air ballooning, snow skiing, morocco - gem of western sahara country.

Located in northwest Africa, Morocco covers the territory of the Western Sahara. Known, historically, as “The Farthest West,” Morocco is home to famous cities and destinations, including Casablanca, Tangiers, and the Sahara Desert. Travelers to Morocco love the country’s unspoiled beaches , majestic mountains, and picturesque ports of call .

When you visit Morocco, you not only experience a rich culture, you can travel over a diverse terrain – an area that spans from sea level on the Atlantic Coast and climbs to an elevation of 2,300 meters (13,000 feet) in the High Atlas Mountains. Morocco’s attractions include Jbel Toubkal, Africa’s twenty-second highest mountain; numerous World Heritage sites; and 11 national parks, all which feature a variety of wildlife.

Few countries in the world offer the ultimate escape like Morocco. Here, aqua waters caress white-sand beaches and snow glistens on the peaks of the Atlas Mountains. Rest assured that, behind city walls, an adventure waits – one that will lead you on a journey filled with interesting art, unique architecture, and savory cuisine.

For example, only in Morocco will you find alleys that open up to busy and bustling souks – each tent filled with spice baskets and lavishly colored silks. Hammams also allow tired travelers to indulge in salt scrubs and relaxing steam baths while desert vistas invite adventure seekers to climb or hike seaside cliffs or explore trails that lead to higher elevations.

Geographic Regions

Geographically, Morocco comprises 4 areas – the Sahara Desert, with its oases and Berber town; The Rif and High Atlas HIgh Atlas Mountain ranges (geared toward adventurers and hikers); the plains, home to the renowned cities, Fez and Marrakesh; and the sandy shores along the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. The small coastal towns of Casablanca and Rabat can be found in this area.

Visiting Essaouira

This all leads the intrepid traveler to wonder what activities he or she should include on a Moroccan holiday. If you like to windsurf, you will find the ideal place in Essaouira, a resort town on the Atlantic shore. The Skala de la Kasbah and its eighteenth-century ramparts shield the city’s medina while strong and steady trade winds invite surfing , kite-surfing and wind-surfing activities.

Camel Riding Across Erg Chebbi

If you are not into windsurfing or other surfing pastimes, you can arrange a trip to the city of Fez, where you can get your fill of souk shopping in the medieval town’s marketplace. You might also consider de-stressing at a hammam (steam bath) in Marrakesh or riding a camel across the golden dunes of sand in Erg Chebbi. Erg Chebbi represents one of Morroco’s various ergs – seas of sand dunes created by the wind. The ergs lie inside the Pre-Saharan Steppes, north of the Sahara Desert. At this point, you may be asking: When is the best time to travel to Morocco?

Because Morocco’s geography varies in nature, the best travel time depends on where you want to go. Generally, however, April or May offer the best weather. Try not to travel in the Sahara region and, to a lesser degree, to plains cities in the middle of summer. Instead, reserve midsummer visits to coastal cities, such as Rabat and Essaouira.

In winter, you should avoid traveling to the mountains in Morocco. Most accommodations don’t provide heating and are remote. Consider reserving mountain travel and tours for the summer months. For those seeking to winter travel in the desert, the days may be clear, sunny and free of precipitation but nighttime can be unexpectedly cool and even cold.

Islamic Traditions and Religion

Because Morocco embraces the Islamic religion, you need to plan your travel accordingly. One of the major holidays, Ramadan takes place from mid-April to mid-May – a time when the temperatures are more temperate. During this time, however, followers of Islam fast during the day, which can lead to difficulties with dining or transportation. Ramadan commemorates the time the Qur’an (the holy book of Islam) revealed itself to the prophet, Muhammad. The night of this unveiling, Lailut ul-Qadr, translates to the “Night of Power” in English.

Because the Islamic religion is the foundation for cultural activities and festivals in Morocco, it helps to know a little about the religion before you explore the country. Islam, itself, means surrender or submission, which refers to a practitioner’s total acceptance of God’s will.

The Prophet Muhammad, who founded Islam, lived in Mecca from 570 to 632. Mecca, at that time, covered modern-day Saudi Arabia. The year 610 establishes the year of the birth of Islam. That is when the Archangel Gabriel visited Muhammad, revealing the word of God. In 622, Muhammad moved to Medina for protection – a trip known as a hijra. The year represents the beginning of the Muslim calendar, or year 0. The year also notes the time that Muhammad was recognized as a religious prophet.

The Five Pillars of Islam

The Quran represents the Word of God, revealed in the Arabic language to the prophet, Muhamad. Five pillars or observances seal the faith –

• The acceptance that no God exists but the God of Muhammad

• Praying toward Mecca 5 times each day

• Giving alms to the poor

• Fasting from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan

• A pilgrimage or hajj to Mecca must be made, at least one time, during a follower’s life

It is helpful to know some of the tenets of Islam, as Morocco is home to numerous mosques , and many festivals center on the religion.

Moroccan Cuisine

Journeying to Morocco also means familiarizing yourself with its foods. Besides couscous, Moroccan cuisine also includes lots of cooked vegetables, all of which can be scooped with bread. Vegetables include tomatoes, green peppers, courgette puree (made of local olives), and carrots. A special breakfast food is B’ssara, a rich soup made of dried broad beans, sprinkled with cumin and drops of olive oil, and served with fresh baked bread. Even eating is an adventure when you set your travel sights on Morocco.

Country Profile

Morocco is the 18th largest country in Africa (excluding Western Sahara and the Spanish Territories).  It shares its eastern border with Algeria, the Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the North.  The country is the closest in proximity of any African country to Europe situated less than 13 km (8 miles) from Gibraltar which can be seen from both coastlines.  Scattered along the Morocco’s Mediterranean coast are three Spanish territories.

Morocco has 2,945 km (1,830 mi) of coastline (including Western Sahara) and 42 major rivers and streams.  From north to south (vertical measurement), the country measures about 1815 km (465 mi) northeast to southwest and 525 km(327 mi) southeast to northwest.  Morocco is considered a strategic location due to its proximity to the Strait of Gibraltar which is only 29 km (19 mi) away.

The Morocco Constitution provides for a constitutional monarchy with branches divided into Executive, Legislative and Judicial functions.  Morocco has a King.  The head of the Morocco Government is the Prime Minister. The country is divided into 12 limited, self-governing council areas and comprised of 75second-tier administrative divisions and providences.  The largest region is Casablanca-Settat which is followed closely by Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Marrakech-Safi, and Fès-Meknès. Morocco is a member of the United Nations, African Union, Arab League, Arab Maghreb Union, and Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Below is our country profile containing facts and information to familiarize you with Morocco .

• Country Name: Morocco
• Official Name: Kingdom of Morocco  or المملكة المغربية (Arabic) al-Mamlakah al-Maghribiyyah : Kingdom of the West (English)
• Formation: Ruled by Idrisid and Alaouite dynasites(788-1631), Independence 1956
• Historical Nickname: “لمغرب الأقصى” or al-Maghrib al-Aqṣá (The Farthest West”)
• Flag: Deep red with centered five-pointed green pentagram, adopted 1915
• Country Motto: “الله، الوطن، الملك” (Arabic); “God, Homeland, King” (English
• Government: Unitary Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
• Capital: Rabat
• Largest City: Casablanca
• Select Cities: Tangiers, Fez, Rabat, Meknes, Ifrane, Marrakech, Agadir
• Points of interest: High Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert, Mosques and National Parks
• Nationality: Moroccan
• Official Religion: Sunni Islam
• Population: 35,582,945 (2018)
• Life Expectancy: 74.43 years for males and 77.02 years for females (World Bank)
• Largest Ethnic Group: Arab-Berber
• Official Languages: Berber, Darija, Hassaniya: Foreign languages are French, English and Spanish
• National Anthem: “النشيدالوطنيالمغربي” (Arabic); “CherifianAnthem” (English)
• Area: 711,850Km² (274,470 mi²)
• National Symbols: The Moroccan Flag
• National Colors: Red and Green
• Average Temperature: Extreme weather and temperature variations by regions
• Climate and Seasons: Diverse, depending on region with Mediterranean climate along the north coast. Rainy season varies. Average precipitation decreases further south in more arid regions.
• Highest Elevation: Topukkai, elevation of 4,165m (13,665ft)
• Lowest Point: SebkhaTah, elevation of −55 m (180 ft)below sea level
• Longest River: The Draa 1100 km (685 mi)
• Deepest and Highest Lake: Lake Aguelmame Sidi Ali 36m(118 ft) deep, Altitude of 2080 m
• Largest Lake: Lake Aguelmame Sidi Ali
• Location: Northwest Africa
• Calling code: +212
• Geographic Coordinates: 2 00 S, 77 30 W
• Currency: Dirham
• Driving side:   Right
• Time zone: One time zones (UTC+1)
• Internet TLD: .ma
• Busiest Airport: Mohammed V International Airport (IATA: CMN)
• Bordering Countries: Algeria, Western Sahara. Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar

Morocco Travel

What currency is used in morocco.

The official monetary currency of Moroccan is the Dirham commonly represented by the symbol (DH) and consists of coins and banknotes.

Where should I visit when in Morocco?

Morocco is the most popular tourist destination in Africa.  However, the country’s popularity does not detract from the superlative and hundreds of unspoiled attractions.  For those seeking outdoors adventure, there are more than 10 protected areas and national-parks and sites such as Souss Masa National Park , heritage sites such as Ait Ben Haddou , the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve and The Mamora Forest near Rabat .

For travelers preferring to visit cities and towns, Morocco is famous for some of the most important architecture and historical sites in the world.  These places are dotted with mosques, such as the world’s second largest, the Hassan II Mosque , museums of antiquity, Moroccan arts, archaeology and some of the world’s oldest ethnographic museums such as the Tetouan Museum of Indigenous Arts .

When is the best time of year to travel to Morocco?

Because of Morocco’s diverse geography and climatethe “best time of year” to visit will depend on where you will be travelling.  Peak travel seasons are between April and October.  In most major coastal cities in Morocco, January to May is the wettest, coolest time of the year.  Average daytime temperature is about 70 °F (24°C) with nighttime temperatures more than twenty degrees cooler.  The climate varies by region from coastal cities such as Essaouira due to the height of the Atlas Mountains with elevations approaching 14,000’ above sea level.

What are some of the “must see” destinations in Morocco?

Certainly some of the most popular and “must see” destinations would include The Marrakech Museum filled with traditional Moroccan art, the Natural Science Museum in Rabat, and the American Legation Museum with its beautiful courtyard and picturesque views of the Straits of Gibraltar.  Another “must see” destinations includes a visit to the Raissouni Palace in Asilah and the Medina of Rabat .

For those seeking outdoor adventure there are diverse activities appealing to all tastes and interests such as camel treks , a visit to one of many golf courses such as The Royal Dar Es Salaam Golf Course in Rabat or the Royal Marrakech Golf Club in Marrakech. Guides and travel companies offer exception daily tours for trekking , hot air ballooning , charter boats where world class fishing waters abound. There is also an abundance of kite surfing and windsurfing spots from such ports of call on Atlantic Ocean like Essaouira .

How expensive is Morocco?

Youth hostels and hotels are plentiful with season nightly prices ranging between USD$10 and USD$15.  Mid-range hotels in the larger cities such as Casablanca range between USD$48 to USD$150 a night but bargains abound.  When planning your trip account for meals, ground transportation, entrance fees, and entertainment.  Flights , day tours, and rental car costs will vary based on your travel itinerary and length of stay.  There are a variety of river tours as well as dozens of companies offering cruises to ports throughout Morocco such as the Port of Safi or the Port of Essaouira .

Do I need a visa to visit Morocco?

Depending on your citizenship and country of origin, visas and passports and other travel documentation is required unless the foreign national is a citizen of a country that is eligible for a visa exemption.  Citizens from almost 70 territories and countries, including the United States, Canada, and all European Union citizens can lawfully enter Morocco for up to 90 days without a visa.

The 15 BEST Places to Visit in Morocco (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Planning a trip to North Africa? Don’t miss our complete list of the best places to visit in Morocco!

Some of the best Morocco destinations are already world-famous, though you may not realise.

Morocco is full of rich history, intense culture, breathtaking natural beauty and endless opportunities for travellers to excite the senses. 

Walking through any Moroccan destination, you can smell fresh mint leaves, incense, perfume, leather and smoky coals sizzling underneath a roasting tagine.

You can hear locals speaking Arabic and French, sometimes Spanish in the north. Sultry Arabic music floats from shops and the daily “Call to Prayer” bellows from Mosque speakers five times a day. 

You can feel the heat of northern Africa warming your skin while your feet trod along stone alleyways, or along sandy coastlines.

Your line of vision is full of colourful traditional clothing, patterned pottery and ceramics, towering piles of spices, bustling fruit markets and streets congested with cars, motorbikes and donkeys. 

Travelling through the country you’ll stumble across gorgeous beaches, rugged mountain ranges, golden desert sands, winding roads, farming villages, waterfalls, forests, Mosques, museums, ancient Roman ruins, tanneries, Medinas and so much more. 

With such diversity, it can be overwhelming trying to plan a trip to visit Morocco.

The country is full of famous tourist attractions and hidden gems, but luckily there is something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1) Marrakech

5) casablanca, 7) chefchaouen, 8) al hoceima, 11) essaouira, 12) the atlas mountains, 13. ouarzazate, 14) sahara desert, 15) ouzoud waterfalls, the best places to visit in morocco.

This article lists some of the most iconic and must-see places to see in Morocco.

The destinations are organised into three categories: cities, beach towns, and places of natural beauty.

Hopefully, this list will help you pick the best places to visit in Morocco that suit your travel style, and will persuade you to book a trip to visit Morocco.

The most visited city in Morocco, Marrakech is a bustling hub of travellers and locals alike.

It showcases traditional Moroccan culture in an accessible way for tourists, with a sprawling Medina selling handicrafts and souvenirs and the Instagram-famous Jardin Majorelle boasting gorgeous architecture and landscaping. 

Jema El Fnaa is the main square of Marrakech, though I believe the true charm of the city lies outside this area.

Jema El Fnaa is insanely touristy and locals here exploit animals for tourist photos.

Try to avoid this mess and venture to other areas of Marrakech for a better experience. 

Visit Saadien’s Tombs for 70 Dirhams and marvel at the intricate artwork and design that adorns the tombs of the Moroccan Saadien Dynasty from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Afterward, stroll through the local street market on Derb Demnat Street and indulge in fresh dates, cactus fruits and juicy peaches.

Sip mint tea in a cafe, browse through unique natural remedies in a herbal medicine shop, and enjoy the artwork in the Museum of Photography . 

Marrakech is the perfect gateway into Moroccan culture so it’s a great first stop for travellers. 

Morocco’s capital city is packed with attractions and historical monuments making it one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Visit the Modern Art Museum and National Archaeological Museum for an enlightening insight into Moroccan culture and art.

Or tour the Royal Palace and see where Moroccan royalty lives. 

Other impressive architectural structures include the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and its neighbour, the Hassan Tower , which was meant to be the largest minaret in the world but to this day remain unfinished.

All three of these are located along the Bou Regreg River that snakes through the city. 

After immersing yourself in the history of Rabat, head just south of the city to lounge on Temara Beach or Skirat Beach .

Temara is closer to the city and a bit more accessible.

But Skirat is known as being one of Morocco’s most beautiful and well-maintained beaches.

Known as the cultural capital of Morocco, Fez is famous for its historical significance and its well-preserved traditional culture.

Tourism is on the rise as Fez becomes more well-known.

There are plenty of backpacker hostels, nice hotels, and fancy Riads to suit every traveller.

However, Fez still feels very authentic and travellers may experience a bit of culture shock here. 

Fez’s Medina is the oldest in the world and is said to have over 9,000 streets.

Prepare to get lost in the Medina because it is inevitable. But the sensory overload and cultural insight you’ll find in this maze of streets are well worth the chaos.

Having an offline navigation app like Maps.Me can very extremely helpful to help you find your way out of the Medina.

While gallivanting through the Medina, stop at the Chouara Tannery , the largest tannery in the world.

Here you can watch locals make leather using traditional methods.

Someone will usually hand you a mint sprig as you walk in so you can hold it under your nose and block out some of the strong, pungent aromas of the tannery. 

Venture outside the Medina to see the more modern size of Fez.

Bab Bou Jeloud , or the “Blue Gate,” and the Royal Palace are two very beautiful and well-maintained sights to see in Fez.

Just have an open mind when travelling through Fez and appreciate the authenticity of the city. 

Take a guided tour of the Fez Medina by booking this tour on Get Your Guide !

For anyone travelling to Morocco from southern Spain, this is the first Moroccan city you will experience.

Located on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is a good transition city between Europe and Africa.

It is a port city on the water, but the beaches aren’t as nice as others in Morocco.

So travellers to Tangier should focus more on the historical and cultural aspects of the city. 

A cultural crossroad, here you can find traditional north African influences in the Old Town and Medina, where the buildings are painted a classy white.

Visit Cafe Hafa , a famous seaside cafe that serves traditional drinks and snacks and offers a lovely view of the ocean.

In the Medina you can also find the Phoenician Tombs, the Old Kasbah, a Kasbah Museum and Dar el Makhzen , a historical masterpiece that used to be a sultans palace but its now a museum of artifacts.

For a local food experience, visit the Berber Farmer’s Market on Thursdays and Sundays for fresh produce.

Or venture to the massive Grand Socco Market , open every day.

There is also a New Town known as Ville Nouvelle , which exudes a classy French atmosphere with its intricate architecture and spacious boulevards full of shops.

Place De France is the beating heart of the Ville Nouvelle, and this is one of the best places to visit in Morocco for finding trendy cafes and restaurants. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to experience Porto, Portugal

Though Rabat is the country’s capital city, Casablanca is the biggest city with a population of about 3.4 million.

This busy coastal city is one of the more developed places in Morocco, with a thriving entertainment scene and growing business sector. 

As Casablanca is one of the more modern cities in Morocco, here you can find international cuisine, casinos, nightclubs, high-end shopping and one of the world’s largest shopping centres, the Morocco Mall . 

In contrast to the Old Medina, the city also has a New Medina built in the 1930s, called the Quartier Habous .

This New Medina is much cleaner and more refined than the Old Medina, though it showcases modern European influence rather than authenticity. 

Casablanca’s ocean isn’t the nicest for swimming.

But a nice walk or jog along the Corniche , or oceanfront boulevard is a great way to enjoy the ocean breeze.

On this seaside sidewalk you can find the Hassan II Mosque , arguably the best attraction in Casablanca.

As one of the largest mosques in the world, the impeccable design and sheer size of this religious landmark is a feast for the eyes. 

Because of the classic film of the same name, Casablanca is also perhaps the most well known and best places to visit in Morocco.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meknes is the perfect destination for history lovers and those with a cultural curiosity.

This is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco and was a Moroccan capital city in the 17th Century.

Because Meknes is less popular than nearby Fez, travellers can revel in the town’s historical significance without all the crowds of the bigger cities. 

The Medina of Meknes dates back to the 9th Century and is guarded by the gorgeously tiled Bar Mansour Gate .

Wander through here for a look into Morocco’s past and indulge in a few local handicrafts.

Stop by the Meknes Museum to explore colourful Moroccan art including rugs and textiles, pottery and ceramics, and clothing and jewellery. 

Other highlights of Meknes include the Museum of Moroccan Art , also known as Dar Jamai , the Borj Belkari Museum of Pottery, The Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail and the Royal Stables Ruins .

One of Morocco’s most famous and well-preserved ruins, Volubilis , lies just north of Meknes and makes an awesome day trip from the city.

Nestled against the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen may be the most picturesque place in Morocco.

Travellers flock here from all over the world to photograph the “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” as this small city is often called because of its blue-painted dwellings. 

Strolling through Chefchaouen feels like a dream because of all the blue paint.

Whether it be pale pastel blue or deep royal blue, the hue mixes with the graceful architecture to make every single street look like something from a postcard. 

You will understand why it is one of the best places to visit in Morocco once you spend a few hours wandering through the city.

The most scenic place in the city is the Old Town, and the most photographed spots here are “ Blue Street, ” Place El Haouta and El Asri Street .

All of these reveal some gorgeous displays of blue paint and incredible design.

So it’s definitely worth waiting amongst the crowds to see these sights.

If you explore early in the morning, you’ll beat most of the crowds. 

To see the more local side of Chefchaouen, venture anywhere outside the crowded Old Town and you’ll find super cheap cafes and local markets.

These will be better for your wallet than eating in one of the many tourist restaurants. 

Check out this post for more great things to do in Chefchaouen !

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Al Hoceima is the perfect beach getaway for those travelling through the north of Morocco.

The Spanish helped to develop the city in the early 1900s, and nowadays Al Hoceima serves as an important port town and has a thriving fishing industry. 

The beaches here are some of the nicest and cleanest in the country.

Quemado Beach is just a short walk from the city centre. Calabonita Beach is known for its crystal clear, turquoise water.

Other lovely beaches in the area include Thara Youssef, Sfiha, Matadero, and Souani. 

Al Hoceima is also situated on the northern edge of the Rif Mountains, so there are lots of rugged cliffs to enhance the scenery.

Al Hoceima National Park has lots of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and admiring the dramatic, seemingly untouched natural beauty. 

This lesser-known Moroccan coastal city is ideal for surfers and beach bums.

Safi isn’t very touristy, which is great for experiencing the local culture.

The Medina is full of shops selling gorgeous ceramics and traditional cafes selling fresh sardines, sugary mint teas and hearty tagines. 

The Main Beach consists of a massive stretch of golden sand framed by a long sidewalk and hipster cafes.

During winter, the waves attract surfers from all over the globe, and all year round the water is cold and refreshing.

Drive about 15 minutes north of Safi Main Beach to Lalla Fatna Beach for a more secluded sunbathing spot.

You will notice at the beaches that most local women dress conservatively.

If you are a woman, there are no concrete rules as to what you can and can’t wear at the beach.

But you may choose to cover up as much as possible to blend in with the locals and show respect for their culture.

READ MORE: 25 things to know to help you plan your trip to Iran

Asilah is a cultural melting pot residing on the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Here you can find fortifications built by the Portuguese, an Old Town with Spanish influence, and whitewashed buildings that resemble those of Greece. 

Through all this multiculturalism, the Moroccan charm still shines through with the traditional markets of the city.

Thursday, in particular, is the busiest market day, where local artists showcase their work and travellers can shop for traditional goods and souvenirs.

Art lovers can also visit the famous art gallery known as Aplanos , or attend the Annual Arts Festival in August. 

To enjoy the ocean, the two closest beaches to the city centre are Asilah Beach , about 4km north of the city center, and Paradise Beach , about 7km south of the city center.

The extra distance to Paradise Beach may be worth it, as this beach is bigger and less crowded than Asilah beach. 

This charming coastal town is a popular day trip from Marrakech, though some travellers prefer to stay there a few days.

Previously known as Mogador, this port town has a rich history in the Caravan Trade Route.

Locals from the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains used to travel to Essaouira to export their goods to the world.

Although nowadays the city has become more of a relaxed tourist destination and one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

The city is framed by fortifications that King Mohammed III of the 18th Century built to protect the important trade center.

Climb up these walls to feel the fierce Atlantic wind on your skin and look out over the ocean and the nearby beach.

Make sure to explore the colourful and charismatic Medina, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And check out the local fish market if you can stand the pungent seafood smell. 

Whether you are driving to Essaouira or taking a day trip from Marrakech, you will most likely pass goats in trees on the outskirts of the city.

This area of Morocco is sprawling with Argan trees, and goats literally climb into the trees to eat the nuts, seeds and fruits.

You may need to tip the local farmer who owns the goats if you want to take photos. But it’s worth it to capture this outrageous sight. 

Book your trip to Essaouira today on Get Your Guide !

A trip to Morocco would be incomplete without exploring the breathtaking Atlas Mountain Range.

Many people view Morocco as hot and arid. But at the high altitudes of the Atlas you can find cooler temperatures and sometimes even snow. 

The Atlas Mountains are full of little Berber villages and towns, but Imlil makes a great starting point for adventures into the area.

Imlil is easily accessible from Marrakech by a shared taxi. And you will find that there are a few cheap hostels and lots of nice guesthouses for travelers. 

From Imlil you can begin the multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal , the highest mountain in northern Africa.

There are also many day hikes in Toubkal National Park available from Imlil, including a circuit around the hills of the village and a full day hike to a waterfall.

Whether you choose a few shorter hikes or one long trek, you are guaranteed to find majestic mountain peaks, tiny remote villages with friendly locals, and lots of wildlife including sheep, donkeys and goats. 

Asni is another nearby village to Imlil, which is a bit smaller and less touristy.

You can also use this town as a base for hiking Toubkal National Park.

Oukaimeden is another popular destination in the Atlas Mountains, as it is one of the few skiing destinations in Morocco. 

On the drive into the mountains from Marrakech, you will most likely travel along the Tizi n’ Tichka Pass , which is a heart-stopping, winding road slicing straight through the cliffs.

The drive is not for the fainthearted, but the views and stunning and you can always trust your local Moroccan drivers.

Visit the Atlas Mountain Range with a camel ride, only found on Get Your Guide

Located in between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, many desert tours pass through here on the way to the Sahara.

If you aren’t doing an organized tour, try and venture out here to the “Hollywood of Morocco.”

The area’s rugged, dusty desert-like landscape filled with kasbahs, palaces and rustic dwellings attracts filmmakers from all over the world. 

Movies and shows filmed in Ouarzazate include Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Ben Hur, Mummy, The Hills Have Eyes and Kingdom of Heaven.

You can take a guided tour of Atlas Film Studios to learn about the film making process. Plus there is also a Cinema Museum that showcases artwork used in films. 

About 30km northwest of Ouarzazate lies another traditional Moroccan hilltop town also used for filming movies.

Aït Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and few local families still live in the tiny village, selling their traditional souvenirs to tourists.

About 130km northeast from Ouarzazate is the scenic Dades Valley .

Though it’s a bit far from Ouarzazate, it is on the route to the Sahara. So if you are driving past it anyways you should definitely stop here.

The Dades River has carved winding curves and valleys into the arid cliffside, and Todra Gorge , in particular, is a popular photo opportunity here. 

Some people visit Morocco solely to see the Sahara Desert .

As the largest hot desert on the planet, the Sahara is truly a natural phenomenon.

Morocco is perhaps the most convenient gateway into this sea of sand. 

The easiest way to visit the desert is to book a tour from Marrakech.

Although it is possible to do on your own through public transport and finding accommodation in one of the nearby towns. 

Most tours include round trip transport from Marrakech, which takes about 10 hours so be prepared for a long day of travel.

But upon reaching the desert, you can enjoy camel treks, free time to explore the dunes, traditional meals, stargazing, and wonderful hospitality. 

Merzouga is one of the most popular desert towns as it’s located right next to the massive Erg Chebbi Dunes .

Though this spot is very close to the Algerian Border, country lines don’t seem to matter at all as you gaze across seemingly endless ripples of soft golden sand. 

Another location for seeing the Sahara is the desert town of Mhamid , which leads to the Erg Chingaga Dunes.

Both dunes are beautiful, though the latter is a bit less touristy. No doubt the Sahara Desert is one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Book a 3-day Safari Desert today !

While staying in Marrakech, escape the city and venture to Ouzoud Waterfalls.

This area is very remote and there is no direct public transport from Marrakech, so the easiest option is to book a day tour.

For about 200-250 Dirhams, you can book a day trip with any of the countless tour agencies in Marrakech, and you’ll get round-trip transportation in a comfy minivan. 

This is a full-day adventure, as the drive takes about 3 hours each way and you’ll have a few hours to relax at the falls.

Once you step off the bus, a local will try to convince you to pay for a guided tour.

This isn’t necessary as it’s very easy to explore the falls yourself. 

The waterfalls are simply stunning, with multiple huge cascades thundering town towards the El-Abid River Gorge.

Stairs lead up and down the canyon of the falls so you can walk to the bottom and swim in the little pools at the base of the falls.

The same stairs lead up to a lookout point, where you can take in the view of the whole waterfall and watch the adorable Barbary Monkeys swing in the trees. 

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before your trip to Morocco!

We recommend World Nomads. Use this form to get your free quote today.

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Such great info, so helpful. We are a 70 year old active couple, is it safe for us to travel alone, as we do in Europe, or should we do a small tour around Morocco. We do usually do tours, except when we toured India, but that again was only the two of us with a driver

Cheers Jill

Nice post! Really enjoyed reading… Thanks for sharing with us!

Amazing blog, rich with innumerable info for any newcomers, thank you for sharing with us.

It seems hard to limit the best places to visit in Morocco because there are so many beautiful places and different cultures to discover.

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All You Should Know Before Visiting Morocco – Travel Tips & Advice

Last Modified: July 3, 2023 //  by  Anda //   12 Comments

Morocco is one of the most magical, yet challenging places I have ever visited. It’s a rough and tumble country that has to be accepted on its own terms. If you don’t understand its culture, you won’t be able to enjoy it. Visiting Morocco can be both amazing and chaotic, which is why I believe it’s important to get as much information as you can before you travel there.

Located in North Africa, at the crossroads of three worlds – Mediterranean, Arab and African – Morocco is a country of great diversity. Here you’ll find the gorgeous coastlines, steep mountains, green valleys, and sweeping deserts. You’ll also find ancient cities, old Medinas, impressive Kasbahs, as well as European-inspired cites with modern architecture. The country’s culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European and African influences.

Visiting Morocco will undoubtedly broaden your horizon and enrich your travel experience, but it will also be challenging. You’ll get in contact with a society and an environment which may be very unfamiliar to you, so you’ll often have to step outside of your comfort zone.

Table of Contents

Is Morocco Safe to Visit?

When should you visit morocco, how to get around when visiting morocco, is there a dress code in morocco, tipping is expected in morocco, scams and hassling are an issue, taking photos is very difficult, drones are illegal in morocco, should you stay in riads or hotels when visiting morocco, non-muslim can’t enter in mosques in morocco, shopping and haggling, alcohol is not easy to find in morocco, marijuana and hashish, safety tips, things you shouldn’t do when visiting morocco, a final word, essential things to know before visiting morocco.

If you plan to travel to Morocco you probably have a lot of questions, so I’ll try to address as many as I can in this post. I will also try to dispel any fears and concerns you might have, and instead give you some tips and insights into this culture to help you better understand this complex country. I hope that after reading this guide you’ll be able to travel with a lighter heart and have a good experience in Morocco.

The first question most travelers ask themselves before considering a trip to Morocco is whether the country is safe. Although in the past few years there were some terrorist attacks on the southern border, Morocco is a safe country for the most part. The crime rate is relatively low and violent crimes against tourists are not a common issue.

That being said, it is advised to stay vigilant at all times. Keep your valuables in a safe place and beware of scams and petty crime, which are very common here.  

One important thing to keep in mind is that Morocco is a Muslim country which follows Islamic laws. You should ensure that your behavior won’t offend the locals and try to be respectful to their customs and culture.

The Best time to visit Morocco is during the cooler months of the year: September through November and March through May.

During the summer months temperatures can be very oppressive, ranging from 40 to 55ºC (104 to 130ºF), except for the coastal regions where they are usually around 25-28ºC (77 to 82ºF).

During the winter months, the weather is generally poor and snow can make many mountain roads impassable for driving.

Before our trip to Morocco, we did a lot of research regarding the best way to visit the country. There are several ways to get around in Morocco: using public transportation, renting a car and self driving, or hiring a car with a private driver.

Public Transportation

Getting around in Morocco on public transport is generally easy. There are plenty of buses, collective taxis and trains that link the main cities in the north with the coast and Marrakesh. But although the coverage may be good, you’ll need to have some “Moroccan time” at hand, as service disruptions and delays occur quite frequently.

Trains are a good option if you are traveling between the major cities, but buses are a cheaper and more comprehensive alternative if you plan to visit smaller towns.

There are also Grand  taxis that cover longer routes between towns, but they don’t leave until they are full. Grand taxis are shared cabs that carry up to six passengers — two in the front beside the driver and four in the back. The Grand taxis have no meters, so you should negotiate the cost per person before you head out.

Renting a car also has its own challenges. Road conditions and traffic accidents are a significant hazard in Morocco. The mountain roads through the Rif and Atlas mountains are steep, narrow, and dangerous. Also, street lighting is minimal after dark and people or animals can suddenly appear in the middle of the road.

Parking is a problem as well. And not only in big cities, but also in smaller towns where the historic centers are car-free. In addition to these issues, you need to be aware of the fact that English is not largely spoken in Morocco. That makes asking for direction or trying to read the signs –which in many places are only in Arabic– really difficult. In our experience, Google Maps is not entirely reliable in Morocco.

Hiring a Car with a Private Driver

After months and months of research, we decided that the safest and most convenient way to travel through Morocco is to hire a car with a driver. Although it will certainly be cheaper to use public transportation or rent a car, hiring a private driver doesn’t cost as much as you might think. Not to mention the fact that it will give you a better experience and save you a lot of hassle.

After visiting Morocco for two weeks, I am still convinced that hiring a driver and travel guides in every big city was the best decision we made. Even my husband who doesn’t fear the challenges of driving all over the world (including the steep, narrow roads of Sicily ), agrees that having a private driver is THE way to travel in Morocco.

There are quite a few companies who offer these services, but knowing which one to choose may be tricky. Always read the company’s reviews before deciding. We worked with Morocco Hire Car and were more than pleased with them. They have English fluent drivers, very competitive prices and great service.

Our driver did so more for us than just take us from point A to B. He also took us to many interesting places that we didn’t know about, gave us practical information, helped us with our luggage and treated us like his own family.

Despite being a Muslim country, Morocco is more liberal than other Muslim states. Most Moroccan women don’t wear a veil –although they may well wear a headscarf. In big cities women are more emancipated, so you may see young girls wearing short-sleeved tops and knee-length skirts.

The general rule is to dress conservatively. For Muslims that means covering your legs and shoulders if you are a woman and wearing long pants if you are a man. Tourist women are not expected to cover their head, but they should dress decently when visiting Morocco. That means not wearing above the knee skirts and shorts, see-through clothing, or low cleavage tops if you are a woman.

If you are a man, you should wear long pants and a shirt. Nonetheless, when it’s hot outside you may see many tourists wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts, like in the U.S. That is particularly common in Marrakesh, which is a more liberal city, but not in smaller towns or in other parts of the country. But if you want to avoid unwanted attention –especially as a woman– you should try to conform to the local norms.

Starting with bathroom attendants and continuing with drivers, waiters, tour guides, and riad staff, expect to tip almost everywhere in Morocco and for just about any “service.” A kid lets you pet his pet? Tip! You stop to take a photo of some goats on trees ? Tip the herder! The tour guide at the museum? Tip! Bathroom attendant? Definitely tip! The golden rule is to always carry small change with you, or you’ll have to face some awkward situations.

Salaries are low in Morocco and although tipping should be optional and based on experience, it’s pretty much expected everywhere. This may not come as a surprise if you are coming from America, where ‘tipping jars’ are almost everywhere . But if you don’t come from a tipping culture, it will annoy you.

Scams, hassling and petty crime are a big problem when visiting Morocco. Especially if you travel alone. Luckily, most of the time we were either with a tour guide or with our driver. But when we were by ourselves we were a sure target. “Are you lost? Where do you want to go? To your hotel? I’ll take you. No money. Don’t worry!” And if you accept, you won’t be able to get them off your back until you pay them what they ask.

If you look disoriented, one guy will point you in the wrong direction and when you are completely lost, another one will come to the “rescue” you and offer “take you to where you need to go.”

Simply wandering through the souks would cause the nearby vendors to jump on us and follow us around, inviting us to their stores. We were trying to turn them down politely, but some of them just couldn’t get “no” for an answer. We could feel the stares on every turn we took and that made us feel very uneasy.

It’s a game of cat and mouse that wears you out very fast. Wandering around by ourselves in the medinas was so stressful, that we had to give it up after a while. That doesn’t mean that everyone is out to get you, but having to stay constantly on guard kind of ruins the experience.

Despite being a friendly and welcoming people, Moroccans don’t like you to take their picture. Actually, let me rephrase that: Moroccans don’t like you taking any pictures at all! Period. Whether you are pointing your camera to a stall, an animal, or a building they oppose it just as vehemently: “No photo! No photo!”

Some them will agree to have their picture taken –of course, tipping is implied– but many just don’t want tourists taking pictures of anything. I was trying to photograph a piece of furniture in a museum when one of the guards started yelling from across the hall: “No photos here! No photos!”

You may argue that this attitude has a lot do with their perception of privacy, but I believe it’s more than that. Moroccans see money making opportunities in almost anything, so they try to take advantage of every situation. You may not think it’s too big of a deal to tip a few Dirhams here and there, but when you end up paying 3-5 Dirhams (30-50 cents) every time you take a picture, you get fed up after a while.

Having to find tricks and reinvent yourself every time you want to take a picture is very annoying. Especially when considering that Morocco relies so heavily on tourism and wants to be promoted as a desirable destination!

As a travel photographer, a trip in which I can’t capture the local color, the lives of the people and their customs is a wasted trip. Luckily, in most places we visited we were accompanied by a travel guide and that made things a little easier. Not that we didn’t have to pay in many places, but at least not every time the locals demanded.

While we’re on the topic of photography you should know that drones are illegal   in Morocco. There are signs everywhere in the airport stating that you cannot bring drone into the country. Your bags will pass through a scanner at the airport, so don’t even try. They may fine you, confiscate your drone, or even put you in jail!

We tried to obtain an UAV permit to use the drone as Media professionals, but found out that even if we have a permit the authorities may confiscate our drone. So forget about taking aerial photos in Morocco!

You’ll encounter a great deal of new experiences when visiting Morocco: customs, food, culture, and even accommodations will be different from what you know. One thing you’ll have to decide when planning your trip is whether to stay in riads or hotels. There is a significant difference between the two, although there are lots of similarities when it comes to amenities and facilities.

What is a Riad?

Riads are basically the Moroccan version of a guesthouse centered around an open-air courtyard that contains a fountain. Historically, riads are mansions that were once occupied by wealthy families. Today, many of these riads have been remodeled and converted into luxury accommodations.

Riads have all the amenities of a modern hotel, but they maintain the typical atmosphere of a Moroccan house. These beautiful buildings often contain some extraordinary examples of Moorish architecture and Moroccan craftsmanship.

Generally, riads have fewer rooms than hotels and are located within the Medina walls, in narrow alleys. That means they are right where the action is and thus closer to the attractions. But that also means they are harder to access, since the medinas are car-free zones. Also, walking through these narrow, winding alleys after dark may be a little scary.

Hotels, on the other hand, are more accessible because they are generally located outside the old town. They also have more room options and are often held to international standards. So if you don’t feel very adventurous and prefer utmost accessibility and big rooms, you should go to a hotel. But if you want to immerse yourself entirely into the Moroccan culture and lifestyle, you should stay in a riad.

Ultimately, your choice will be determined by what’s more important for you when traveling: consistency and ease, or cultural experience.

One of the big disappointments for non-Muslims when visiting Morocco is not being able to enter into the mosques. There are many outstanding mosques in Morocco, but unfortunately only those who go in there to pray can access them. The only exception is Hassan II Mosque, in Casablanca, which can be visited by non-Muslims on guided tours, but only at specific times.

As for the rest of them, you’ll have to be content with an occasional glimpse through open doors, or just walking around the courtyard.

When visiting Morocco you’ll be amazed at the wide assortment of handicrafts available in the marketplace. But shopping in Morocco is not going to be your shopping mall experience. If you want to buy something here, you’ll have to be prepared to bargain.

The Western world (except for maybe southern Spain and Italy) doesn’t have much of a bargaining culture, but in Morocco bartering is an old tradition. You need to be aware that merchants inflate the prices many fold in order to leave room for haggling. 

Unfortunately, for most westerners having to negotiate a price can be very stressful. The process is very similar to that of buying a car or a house here, in the States. There are a few common sense rules that apply: 1. Know the market value of the objects. 2. Don’t show enthusiasm for the item you want. 3. Decide how much you want to pay for it and wait for an offer. 4. If the merchant doesn’t accept your counter-offer, wait for another offer or walk away.

Unless you agree on the price, you don’t have to buy anything. But if the merchant accepts your offer, then you have an obligation to buy. If you are not planning to buy anything, don’t engage in a conversation with the merchant.

They will pay you lots of compliments and may even offer you some of their famous mint tea to lure you into their shop. If you accept, they will believe you are looking to buy and it will be very hard to back out. Try to avoid the chat with a polite “no, thank you.” Never underestimate the merchant: they are smarter and think faster than you when it comes to negotiating a price.

Morocco is mostly a cash-based society, so you should always expect to pay in cash. The country’s currency is the Dirham, but euros and US dollars are accepted as well in most places.

Being a Muslim country, it’s more difficult to find alcohol in Morocco than it is for instance in Europe, or in other parts of the world. While you can buy alcohol in larger supermarkets and some bars, drinking doesn’t have a very good image in Morocco and most locals see alcohol as a Western drug. Even so, according to a recent study, Moroccans are drinking more now than they did some years ago.

As a general rule, drinking alcohol in public is against the law   and it could get you into trouble with the police. Therefore, it’s a good idea to be discrete when you drink and avoid walking around if you had too much alcohol.

Growing, selling, purchasing or using drugs is illegal in the Kingdom of Morocco. But but despite this fact, the country is the world’s biggest cannabis exporter. Most of the crops grow around the Rif Mountains, under the complicit watch of the local police, who turns a blind eye to it.

As a result, it’s not unusual to see people smoking hashish in pipes everywhere. As a tourist, you may be asked more than a few if you’d like to purchase some hashish. Smoking kif (marijuana) or hashish is commonplace in Morocco. Men usually roll it up in a joint mixed with tobacco. But buying it has its risks, as often police informers act as dealers, so you may get in trouble.

Morocco is overall a very safe country to visit. There are almost no violent crimes against travelers reported here. Moroccans are kind, warm and tolerant of other cultures, providing their beliefs are respected as well. They are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors, as they all aware of the fact that the tourism industry is a major economic source of income to most families directly or indirectly.

That being said, you should always exercise common sense when walking around the Medina streets. Especially after dark. Don’t display expensive jewelry or large amounts of money and be aware of your whereabouts.

Also hide money, credit cards, and your passport into deep inner pocket, or in a pouch under your clothes. I believe that pick pocketing is the most common crime here, and both men and women can be victims.

There are a few things that you should definitely avoid when visiting Morocco.

• Talk about the King, religion, or politics . It is recommended to avoid these 3 topics in your conversations with locals or other tourists in Morocco.

• Public displays of affection.  Very obvious gestures of affection are considered offensive in Morocco, so you should avoid kissing in public or other displays of love while there.

• Wander through back alleys.  There is a maze of narrow lanes and winding alleys in every old town in Morocco. They may be charming at first sight, but they are also dangerous. Venturing too deep into this maze can make you an easy victim for con artists and robbers. Stay in places where you can see other tourists

• Feel compelled to buy. If you plan to hire a tour guide to show you around when you travel in Morocco, you’ll often be dragged into shops under the pretext of showing you unusually beautiful crafts, or to observe a certain manufacturing process.

The guide will reassure you that he brought you there “just to see, not to buy.” But in fact, they will get a commission if you buy anything. Although it’s easy to see through this trick, you may feel pressured to buy at least something to please the guide or the store owner, but you shouldn’t.

READ NEXT : Visiting Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Blue City

Morocco is full of welcoming, generous and hospitable people who will be glad to share their historic sites, vibrant souks, and delicious cuisine with you. Therefore, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is avoid visiting this country for fear you may not be safe or welcome there. If you travel with an open mind and a willing heart, you’ll have a wonderful time in Morocco. I promise you!

If you found this information helpful, please pin this to help other travelers discover Morocco

INTERESTED IN A TRIP TO MOROCCO? YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE:

• Morocco Itinerary – How to Spend 10 Days in Morocco
• The Best Souvenirs to Buy When Shopping in Morocco
• The Mystery of the Tree-Climbing Goats in Morocco
• Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Blue City
• How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip From Marrakech to Essaouira

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

March 27, 2023 at 1:56 pm

So many tips to learn from… Thanks for sharing!!!

April 28, 2023 at 12:58 pm

So many things to learn indeed, the most important of which is that Morocco and Moroccans are not Arabs and are vast majority ethnic Amazigh berbers. You can ruin your reputation by calling Moroccans ARabs, big no no.

January 29, 2023 at 1:33 pm

Thank you for the tips Anda. We are not yet sure whether we should hire a car with a private driver or book a private tour. We have read that the driver cannot act as a guide and therefore for certain cities we would still need to hire a guide. What is your opinion please?

January 29, 2023 at 2:42 pm

Technically your driver can’t act as a guide, so it’s better if you you hire local guides for cities like Marrakech, Fes and so on. They are are also more knowledgeable than a driver. However, our driver gave us all kinds of tips that were invaluable. Like how much to tip (and it was much less than we intended to give), what places are safe to wander around, what restaurants are rip-offs, and so on. Besides, having a local with you at all times is priceless in a country like Morocco. I’m not saying you won’t be able to make it without one, but your life will be so much easier.

January 30, 2023 at 12:15 am

Thank you for your prompt reply Anda 🙂 So just to confirm, if we book a private tour, how will this differ from a private driver? Per our understanding, a private tour will provide you with a driver, a guide and book hotels on our behalf. Is this correct?

January 30, 2023 at 12:49 am

There are different kinds of “private tours.” Some are small group tours, which will take you to different cities (or to the desert) and drop you there. From that point you may choose to hire a local guide, or visit the city on your own.

Another possibility is to rent a car with a driver, which is what we did. In each city we hired a local guide to take us around. That is of course more expensive, but you are the boss. The driver will take you wherever you want and stay at your service all the time. You may choose your own itinerary, or ask the company to make one for you. They can recommend hotels, restaurants, etc. etc. We designed our own itinerary and booked our own hotels, so we just paid for the car and the driver. That was slightly more expensive than just renting the car itself. I strongly recommend this option. In my post I have a link to the company from where we rented the car with a driver.

September 21, 2022 at 5:44 pm

Many good tips without having to ask the questions. Now looking for more insights as to “off the beaten path”.

September 21, 2022 at 6:45 pm

I’m still working on the Morocco posts and yes, “off the beaten path” destinations are coming soon. Thank you for dropping by.

July 27, 2022 at 6:25 pm

Great post, Anda. You are spot on — although it sounds like photography has gotten much more difficult since I was there. . . . and it was challenging enough then! We also hired a driver to take us around and used guides in larger cities (our brilliant driver was a fabulous unofficial guide in more rural places). You are right — a good driver and/or guide will take you to places you would never discover otherwise. And it makes getting around just so much easier. It’s not even that expensive, we found the price to be comparable to booking a mid-price tour. Of course, the trick is finding someone who will be really good and who you’ll want to be around over the course of long days of driving and touring.

July 29, 2022 at 10:05 am

I agree, Cindy. Having a drives puts you ahead of the crowds and it saves you a lot of time.

Roy Stevenson

June 30, 2022 at 11:01 am

Thanks for this excellent summary, Anda. Much appreciated. Morocco is on my bucket list & this gives me a good idea of what to expect. Best regards to you! Roy Stevenson

June 30, 2022 at 1:05 pm

Thanks for dropping by, Roy. Hope all is well with you and your wife.

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21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Morocco Travel Tips

• Africa / Fez / In the City / Marrakech / Morocco
• 33 Comments

Visiting Morocco? This is what you need to know before visiting.

More and more people are visiting Morocco every year. It’s a beautiful country, and as photographers and videographers, we had a field day.

On the flip side, there were also downsides to visiting especially as a woman. If you plan on going, we put together a few pointers to help you set realistic expectations and prepare for your trip.

Thank you Contiki for hosting our trip. See our full 15 day trip itinerary here . All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 16, 2023

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21 things you must know before visiting morocco, best places to stay in morocco, planning checklist, more resources, 1. dress appropriately.

Overall, guys can dress however they like, but women need to dress more conservatively. Although you see many tourists wearing whatever they want, we chose to cover up as much as possible to avoid unwanted attention.

Even if you’re traveling with a group of guys, you may still get harassed. Some of the girls in our group got groped on multiple occasions even though we were paired off with a male buddy.

It was mostly really old men, and it happened more often in crowded places. When visiting mosques, you need to cover down to your wrists and ankles.

For the ladies out there, keep a  shawl / scarf  handy (this one is reversible and great for traveling light)

See More: What to Pack for Morocco – 2 Weeks in a Carry On

2. Currency and Cost

More established shops will take credit cards, but most smaller markets, street vendors, and cabs will not. Be ready with the local currency.

The Moroccan Dirham (DEE-rahm) goes for roughly 10.4 Dirhams (DH) per 1 USD or 11.09 per 1 euro. We thought things would be cheaper in Morocco, but the prices were comparable to Europe because of how touristy the country has become.

Our guide recommended that each person exchange 100 euros daily, which was plenty for us.

3. ATMS Can be Hit or Miss

Exchange enough money when you get your chance. Ask the front desk at your hotel; they may have money to exchange.

The ATM quickly ran out when our entire group was trying to exchange money. Who knew ATMs can run out of money!

A few people from our group thought the ATM was giving an error and tried multiple times, but the ATM didn’t dispense any while still charging it from the bank for every attempt.

Also, traveler’s checks are pretty much useless in Morocco. It’s hard to find a place to cash them.

4. Keep Correct Change with You

Moroccan cab drivers rarely “have change” when you need it. At least, that’s what they tell you. To avoid overpaying, keep your coins.

Most of our cab rides within the city cost roughly 30 Dirhams. The dilemma with keeping change though is that you will not be able to exchange it back when leaving the country since they only want larger bills.

You want to keep correct change while you’re in the country, but you also want to spend it all before leaving.

5. Learn to Haggle

If you’re shopping in the markets or medinas, you will have to learn to haggle. I know some people have strong opinions about paying full price for the sake of “charity”, but selling is like their national sport and haggling is an integral part of their culture.

More likely than not, they will still get the better deal, but keep in mind if you are willing to spend the time, you can get items for at least 25-50% of the starting price.

Know what you’re willing to pay before you start the haggling process and walk out if you can’t get the price you want. They may call you back multiple times.

Also, you may want to bargain with your cab drivers before getting in. Most of our rides within the city cost 30 DH. If they demanded more, our guide told us to hand them the money and walk away.

Luckily, that didn’t happen to us because we always firmly set a price before the ride.

If you’re looking to buy a carpet or anything with a higher price tag, do your research before visiting Morocco. People get tricked into buying them as “an investment” to sell later. Don’t fall for their sales tactics and the local guide’s added pressure to buy.

Have some change ready for tips. A good general rule of thumb is 1 DH at a local place and 3-5 DH at nicer places.

7. Be Wary of Local Guides

You should absolutely hire a local guide to help you get an inside perspective on the country and navigate through the maze of the medinas (old towns). However, be sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.

The local guides have built relationships with many different stores, and they are most likely getting a cut of the sales. Don’t be fooled when they say they are trying to help you haggle to get the best price, because they usually aren’t. We were able to get better prices without them. This happened in Fes.

See More: 21 Amazing Things to Do in Fes Morocco

8. Stay Away from Strangers Offering Free TOurs or Directions

Even if you don’t hire a local guide, you might find other locals offering you tours while you’re walking around the markets and medinas.

If you go with one of them you may end up completely lost and pressed to spend money. Most of the time they will ask for a tip afterward too.

This is the same with asking for directions. A lot of them will offer to walk you to where you’re going but then ask for a tip. If you’re so inclined, always keep money to pay them off, plan ahead and ask your hotel, or pull up some maps when you have WIFI.

Also, if you are  renting a car in Morocco  so that you can get around on your own, be sure to plan ahead rather than wait until you are there.

9. Fridays are Holy Days and Prepare for Holidays

Keep in mind that it is a Muslim country, so pay attention to their holidays otherwise you might be there when everything is closed.

Also, most shops and attractions will close on Friday since it’s their holy day.

A friend of mine went during Ramadan and told me it was very difficult to eat meals. We happened to arrive in Morocco on Eid al-Adha, where they were slaughtering and sacrificing animals on the street.

All shops we saw closed that day and most shops were closed the following day.

Plus it was a bloody mess, most of which we avoided. Below you can see what is usually a crowded marketplace is deserted.

10. Be Careful what Water You Use

To stay safe, drink bottled water and even use it to brush your teeth. Also, avoid using any ice when you’re out. The LARQ Self-Cleaning Water Bottle is really useful when you’re in Morocco if you don’t want to buy a ton of bottled water. See all the top travel water bottles we tested on the road.

11. Pack Some Imodium

I don’t care how strong you think your stomach is, you should pack some  Imodium   just in case. This is always a good rule of thumb for all travel.

At least a third of our group wasn’t feeling well after the first meal in Morocco. I popped a couple of Imodium, and I was fine the next day. Others were not so fortunate.

See More: 21 Moroccan Foods You Must Try

12. Watch Your Pockets

Most Moroccans are friendly and honest, but you should always be careful with pickpockets in any major city, especially in crowded places like the markets. Pickpockets often target touristy areas.

13. What Language Do they Speak?

Moroccans speak a mixture of Arabic, Berber, English, and French. You’ll be fine with English in most of the larger cities, but you’ll probably need a translator in the rural parts of the country.

Here are a few basic Arabic words that came in handy:

• Hello  (Peace Be With You): Salam Alikome (salaam a eleikum)
• Thank You:  Choukran (shokran)
• No Thank You:  La Choukran (la shokran). This one is useful when you have a bunch of street vendors hassling you to buy something.
• Watch Out:  Balak. Although you won’t use this yourself, you’ll most likely hear this in the medinas or souks (outdoor markets). Locals will say balak if coming by with a mule, motorcycle, or cart to warn you to either get the side or get run over.

14. Visiting Mosques

If you’re hoping to see a Mosque while visiting Morocco, you might be out of luck unless you’re Muslim. Most mosques are off-limits to non-Muslims, with the exception of the massive Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. They are still beautiful to take photos from outside though!

If you’re looking for beautiful architecture,  Bahia Palace   is open to visitors.

See More: 21 Fascinating Things to Do in Marrakech Morocco

15. Alcohol, Drugs, and Parties?

Although most Moroccans are Muslims, yes, they still have all these. Hashish, an extract of the cannabis plant, is quite commonly offered to you in the streets. 

Contiki loves their parties, and we were told that only hotel bars had alcohol available for tourists, but we surprisingly found several bars and even nightclubs serving alcohol.

We decided we didn’t want to pay 300 DH (30 euros) to get into a club that already appeared like a sausage fest from the outside.

They also told us it’s pretty typical for prostitutes to hang out at nightclubs there too. There was a special DJ guest that night, but normally the club was supposed to cost around 150-200 DH.

16. Do I need a Visa or Vaccines?

Almost all English-speaking countries (except South Africa and Australia) do not require visas to enter the country. The CDC also doesn’t require any vaccines although many would recommend Hepatitis A and Typhoid shots. Find out more details from  CDC here  for the most updated information on vaccinations before visiting Morocco.

17. Have the RIght Converters

Don’t get stuck in Morocco without a way to charge all your electronics. We recommend picking up  one of these  so that you have options for wherever you travel and additional outlets in case there aren’t many in the hotel room.

Morocco uses the following: Voltage: 220 V, Frequency: 50 Hz, Power sockets: type C / E. If you have something that works in Europe, then it will be the same. If you’re traveling from the states,  the adapter  will help you get everything charged.

18. Ask Before Taking Photos (And You may have to Pay)

When you’re walking through the markets, be careful when taking photos of people and shops. Unless you are purchasing something, they may get angry at you and even demand money for the photos.

When we took photos of the snake charmers, we paid 20 DH. Some may even hassle you for more, so again, it’s good to first establish a price before taking a photo.

19. Bring TOilet Paper with you Everywhere

Don’t expect bathrooms to have toilet paper. Be prepared with your own and also have some hand sanitizer available. A lot of public restrooms have a small fee as well so if you see an attendant be sure to ask the price before using the bathroom.

Though they’re not flushable, I like to bring my  wet wipes  on all my trips to wipe my hands when I don’t have easy access to bathrooms.

20. Souvenirs to Bring Home

Fez is known for leather and carpets, while Marrakech is known for fragrances, oils, and spices (like saffron). If you’re buying saffron, make sure you’re buying the real thing. Many places sell artificial saffron for dirt cheap or mix the real with the fake stuff. No one wants saffron cut with other spices.

You can ask them to do a demonstration in water. If it colors the water yellow, it’s real, if it turns reddish, it’s the dye coming out from the artificial saffron.

You can also smell the difference (should smell more herbal), or ask for a couple of strands to put in your mouth and spit it onto a tissue to see what color it produces.

21. It’s a cat Lover’s Heaven… and Hell

There are homeless cats everywhere in Morocco. They are super cute and made us smile every time we saw them but also really sad every time we had to walk away and leave them.

It seemed that the people of Morocco took care of them in their own way. We saw them feeding them scraps of food in the markets. If you’re highly allergic to cats, don’t forget to bring some allergy meds with you.

Final Thoughts as a Woman Visiting Morocco

There were many times on our trip that I genuinely wished I was a man visiting Morocco. While others simply got annoyed (full disclosure), I was much more sensitive since I still have residual resentment from some sexual traumas when I was younger that I am working out.

It’s a work in progress, making the trip incredibly challenging personally. For the most part, we had the best-case scenario of traveling with a local guide and Contiki. Those incidences happened within the few hours of free time that we wandered off alone.

Overall, Morocco is beautiful, and we’re happy to have experienced the country.

Instead of scaring you from visiting, we hope it educates you and helps you go in with the right mindset and expectations. As long as you’re entirely aware of your surroundings and know what to expect, you can have a wonderful experience.

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Find a great deal on Morocco hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Morocco travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Lonely Planet Morocco  – they always have great photos and information.
• Moon Morocco  – also very photo heavy.
• Morocco National Geographic Adventure Map
• Pocket Arabic Dictionary

Is Morocco one of the top places you want to visit? Why or why not? Can you think of any other tips for visiting Morocco?

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8 Reasons Why September Is The Best Time To Visit Morocco

These are the top reasons that September is the best time to visit Morocco. Travelers are in for an adventurous (and cooler) trip abroad.

Sarah Rand • May 17, 2024

Morocco is an exciting and iconic northwestern gem of Africa. The country has significant historical and cultural attractions and many activities for visiting travelers. However,  the country can be overwhelming at times, so travelers should visit in the most pleasant times of the year. Deserts, markets, beaches and cuisines — to fully enjoy Morocco, September is the best time to visit. Learn more about why this is the best time to visit Morocco and what travelers can get excited about for their trip.

Average Temperature This Time of Year

• 65-85 Degrees F

Morocco’s weather is typically hot but varies depending on the region. Coastal areas tend to be cooler, but overall, September is the best time to visit Morocco. The heat is not sweltering in areas other than the desert, so travelers will experience warm yet pleasant temperatures during the month. More outdoor cultural events occur starting in September since the cooler fall temperatures begin to settle. Activities like swimming, exploring historical sites, and trekking are much more comfortable this time of year.

• Travel Tip : For travelers who can’t handle too much heat, it is recommended that they stay in coastal regions with a sea breeze to cool them off. Staying hydrated is incredibly important as travelers explore Morocco. 

Enjoy a Hammam 

A hammam is a traditional bathhouse — or a Moroccan spa. Many hammams have multiple rooms with pools of different temperatures and a hot steam room. There are public and private hammams that travelers can choose between. A hammam trip can be a luxurious time, complete with a bathing, scrubbing, and massaging experience. Visitors often leave hammams feeling clean, exfoliated, and relaxed. A traditional hammam is a great opportunity for rejuvenation and is fit for those who do not mind the possible cultural differences concerning nudity (at least, in the hammam). The cooler outdoor temperatures mean travelers will feel less sweaty and overwhelmed with heat when visiting a hammam. This makes it the best time to visit Morocco so that travelers can fully relax and not feel sticky immediately after their experience.

• Travel Tip : Private hammams typically provide additional, relatively luxury services, such as acupuncture, foot scrubs, and hot stone therapy. 

Visit Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace is a 19th-century landmark that represents the elite of Morocco. It is located in the southern part of the Medina of Marrakesh. Built in 1867, the palace comprises 160 rooms, reception spaces, and courtyards. The vibrant tiles, intricate architecture, and extravagance of Bahia Palace make it a very popular tourist destination. This historic landmark is adorned with beautiful gardens and fountains, and many tourists simply take photos of the palace. Visiting Bahia Palace is much more pleasant during the fall since temperatures are cooler, resulting in less glare from the sun, which ruins photos.

• Travel Tip : To avoid crowds in September, travelers should visit the Bahia Palace before 10:00 a.m. and take a guided tour to learn more about the site. They should also wear comfortable shoes to explore the palace and dress modestly to respect the local culture. 

Sahara Desert Tour 

An exciting adventure for travelers is taking a Sahara Desert tour so that they can ride a camel. Of course, the desert is quite hot. But there is a bit of relief from the oppressive heat in September. So, the start of fall is the best time to visit Morocco and take part in a desert tour. While it is still hot, travelers can at least camp out and enjoy the stars or eat outdoors. Technically speaking, September is the wettest month in the Moroccan Sahara, so travelers are likely to have some relief from the heat if they are not used to it.

• Travel Tip : Travelers have many options for going on Sahara Desert camel tours. Some tours last only an hour, while others can last a half day or be an overnight adventure. Travelers should select their tour duration based on their endurance and how much they want to see. 

Shop at the Souks of Marrakesh

A souk is a traditional marketplace district filled with stalls offering goods. The souks of Marrakesh can be a bit chaotic. But these vibrant and lively marketplaces can provide travelers with exciting shopping opportunities and offer more insight into local culture. With the large number of people that typically frequent the souks of Marrakesh, travelers should appreciate the cooler weather during September. Travelers can peruse the spices, jewelry, food, and herbal remedies displayed at a souk in Marrakesh. A souk is like a bustling sensory adventure for visitors to get lost and truly immerse themselves in.

• Travel Tip : Some stallholders (or sellers) can be persistent, so don’t be afraid to politely decline. Another rule of thumb for exploring the souks of Marrakesh is to go deeper into the souk to get the best deals since the stalls near the entrance are likely to have higher prices to close the deal with unsuspecting tourists. 

Check Out Casablanca

Casablanca is a city in Morocco that was immortalized by the Hollywood film  Casablanca  (where it was set but not filmed), so many travelers like to visit. It’s also a large port, so it has a modern edge. This city has also been made famous by its stunning beaches. September’s weather is ideal for enjoying some of Casablanca’s best features. Some include enjoying fresh seafood outdoors, relaxing on the popular beaches, and visiting architectural marvels. One significant architectural site is the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco.

Casablanca is not an overwhelmingly touristy city but is large, cosmopolitan, and considered Morocco’s most western-like city.

• Travel Tip : It is important to note that since Casablanca is near the sea, it can be humid. Travelers spending significant time in Casablanca may be better off picking hairstyles that are not sensitive to heat or humidity. The temperatures fluctuate, so travelers should bring lightweight clothing and dress modestly if they visit a mosque. 

Outdoor Activities 

Travelers can enjoy many outdoor activities during the more manageable month (weather-wise) of September. Hot air balloon rides are a top choice for travelers. The riveting adventure of floating above the Atlas Mountains on a bright day is an unforgettable experience. It is a highly recommended tourism activity that will take up a few hours of travelers’ time. Other activities include camel riding tours that explore the valleys of Marrakesh and the Ouzoud waterfall boat tours. There are also desert bike tours, Agafay desert dinner shows, or relaxing pool excursions that include lunch. Travelers can better enjoy all of these outdoor activities during the best time to visit Morocco due to the weather.

• Travel Tip : Temperatures tend to cool during the night in Morocco, although the daytime is typically hot. Travelers embarking on nearly day-long or later scheduled excursions should bring a light jacket or warm shirt just in case. 

The Tanjazz Festival

The Tanjazz Festival has been presented since 2000 and is held in September. It is an international jazz festival that music lovers will appreciate. The festival is held in Tangier, a coastal city. It is usually three days long and brings new and experienced musicians together to enjoy the diverse yet cohesive musical stylings of jazz. This popular music festival is guaranteed to be an exciting cultural event for travelers to enjoy and is one of the reasons September is the best time to visit Morocco.

• Travel Tip : There is dancing, singing, and feasting in the streets during the Tanjazz Festival, so travelers should take part in the lively atmosphere if they visit Morocco during this festival. 

Morocco is an intriguing place to visit. However, the best time to visit Morocco is during the fall season, specifically September. All of these reasons to visit during the fall month are just the beginning of all the fun and cultural immersion that travelers can enjoy.

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Explore Morocco's vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. From Marrakech's bustling markets to Essaouira's serene beaches, Morocco offers something for everyone. Discover ancient cities like Fez and Meknes, or embark on a Sahara desert adventure. Experience the magic of North Africa with Morocco.

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Top 5 reasons to visit Morocco with Intrepid Travel

by Good Morning Washington

WASHINGTON (7News) — Morocco is truly a bucket list destination, and exploring the country with Intrepid Travel was the perfect way to meld adventure with unforgettable local connections. Host Kidd O'Shea takes us through his top 5 reasons to visit Morocco with Intrepid Travel. They offer itineraries to fit the interests of every traveler. You can learn more and start planning your next trip at intrepidtravel.com .

I've traveled to over 40 countries around the world. These are the 5 underrated spots everyone should visit.

Posted: May 17, 2024 | Last updated: May 17, 2024

• I've always loved traveling and have visited over 40 countries around the world.
• Many of my favorite places that I've visited aren't typical tourist spots .
• Of all the countries I've been to, I've loved places like Colombia, Zimbabwe, and Morocco.

I've always loved traveling. In my opinion, there's nothing like waking up in a new country with a sense of excitement about what the day could bring.

Growing up in Australia, my bucket-list travel destinations were usually those you'd see in movies or on postcards — places like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland. And it seems like many tourists have similar travel goals, with spots like Paris and Los Angeles predicted to be two of the most-visited summer vacation destinations in 2024 .

But the more I traveled, the more I realized the countries I've enjoyed most are not necessarily the typical tourist hot spots. After visiting over 40 countries, these five are the underrated gems I recommend visiting.

Colombia offers lush scenery and vibrant architecture.

My husband and I did a three-month backpacking trip through South America in 2012. Beforehand, we were so excited about seeing the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, ticking off Machu Picchu , and checking out Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.

Although we loved all of those places, we were also pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed Colombia, with its warm people, lush scenery, and vibrant architecture.

In Salento, we explored coffee estates and did an amazing hike in Cocora Valley, home to the Quindío wax-palm trees. We couldn't get over how green everything was.

But the colorful city of Cartagena was by far one of the highlights of our South American adventure. We spent countless hours walking the streets, admiring the multicolored colonial facades, and taking in the Caribbean vibes.

Note that the State Department has a Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisory in effect for Colombia, updated as of January. Wherever you travel, it's important to stay up to date on the latest conditions, which often vary even within countries.

We were blown away by the natural scenery in Laos.

When we traveled to Laos, we were blown away by the genuine, kind-hearted people and spectacular natural scenery .

Our favorite place we visited in this Southeast Asian country was Kuang Si Falls, where swimming is permitted in certain parts of the three-tiered, turquoise waterfalls.

Another thing we loved about Laos was the fresh and delicious food. After a day of exploring, we'd head to the local markets for some larb — a meat-based salad flavored with mint leaves, fish sauce, lime juice, and chiles.

Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do.

My husband and I traveled to Malta during a trip to London . The country had always been on my list of places to visit, as my grandfather was stationed there during World War II.

For such a small island nation, Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. For example, the walled capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . We loved wandering its streets and taking in the fortifications, churches, and Baroque architecture.

Visiting the Blue Grotto, which is a series of sea caves, was also breathtaking and a highlight of our trip.

Zimbabwe is home to extraordinary natural beauty.

Zimbabwe is home to some extraordinary natural beauty. One of the most popular attractions is Victoria Falls, the world's largest curtain of falling water. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya , which means "the smoke that thunders."

We ended our day at the falls with drinks at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which overlooks a waterhole. As we enjoyed our cocktails, we watched the African wildlife come in for a drink.

Later, we headed to The Boma for dinner and a drum show. The buffet featured every type of game meat imaginable.

There's so much to see in Morocco.

My husband and I traveled to Morocco with his parents in 2013. Arriving in Marrakesh was a real culture shock for his folks, who were from country Victoria in Australia.

There was so much to see, from the snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square to the donkeys cruising up and down streets.

The highlight of our trip was a tour of a Berber camp in the Sahara Desert, complete with a camel trek. We ate chicken tagine under the stars and chatted with our host about life in the desert. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I'll never forget.

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18 things to know before traveling to Morocco

Oct 15, 2023 • 7 min read

It helps to learn a little lingo: here's what to know before your trip to Morocco © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

I am originally from the UK and have been living in Morocco since 2018. There are things I wish I'd known before jumping headfirst into the seemingly lawless world of Moroccan taxis and bargaining in the souqs.

Morocco reveals the full spectrum of real life: the good, the bad, the ugly and the oh-so beautiful. For some visitors, Morocco can be a huge culture shock. But with some awareness and understanding, it is possible to appreciate these differences, connect more deeply and see the country through a different lens without trying to change it.

1. Plan your itinerary loosely and allow for changes

Research the places in Morocco you’d like to visit but leave wiggle room for changes along the way and enjoy the spontaneity that Morocco allows. While it’s possible to pre-book tours and activities, it’s usually just as easy to reserve them when you arrive in the country.

2. Take public transport, especially in cities

Driving in cities such as Casablanca and Marrakesh is best left to the locals. Getting around Morocco is easy, even without a car. An excellent train network links many cities, including Africa’s first high-speed train, Al Boraq , between Casablanca and Tangier . A comfortable and reliable bus network connects towns big and small. Book train and bus tickets a day or two in advance to ensure the travel time you'd like.

3. Book professional guides

To get the most out of your trip to Morocco, use a guide who has in-depth expertise and speaks your language. In cities, check with the local tourism office or your accommodations for recommendations for licensed guides in the area. If you’re surfing, check ISA’s directory of certified instructors .

Hiking guides are mandatory for climbing Mt Toubkal in the High Atlas. Check with Bureau des Guides .

4. Understand the written and unwritten rules of the road

In Morocco, you drive on the right side of the road and seatbelts are mandatory, even though some taxis don't have them. Car horns are used often - not in an aggressive way, but as a means of communication. 

Watch out for people, bicycles, motorcycles and animals coming from all sides. Avoid driving at night because some vehicles do not have or use their lights. Take notice of the speed limits and the roundabouts that have stoplight systems. If you’re stopped for speeding – police speed checks are common – or other penalties, having cash on you to pay fines (usually between Dh150 ($15US) and Dh300) is preferable to going to a local police station.

5. Practice the art of haggling 

Haggling is a game and part of the shopping experience in Morocco . Try not to get frustrated – the ideal scenario is that both sides come away feeling like they got a fair price. 

For big purchases, do your research, have a price in mind or shop around until you do. Sometimes vendors say to pay what you feel like, so if you don't have a price, ask some questions: how many hours did it take to make? Where did the materials come from and at what price?

The souqs are filled with fake tennis shoes, which are just that: fakes. Many Moroccans don't care whether their Nikes are original; they just want the best price for the latest styles.

6. Cash or card?  

The Moroccan dirham is a closed currency, which means you cannot use or get it outside the country. Morocco’s rural areas still operate on a cash economy, but cards are widely accepted in towns and cities.

7. Learn some of the lingo 

A mixture of French, Arabic, Amazigh and English is spoken in Morocco, depending on where you are in the country. Don't expect everyone to speak English. Apps like Google Translate can be useful, but learning some basic Arabic phrases will reward you with feeling more connected and engaged with people you meet.

8. Respect the motto of ‘God, king and country’

These words are etched on hills around the country. Islam is the state religion, and the rules of Islam are applied to personal matters in the same way that state law works in other countries. It is illegal to speak disrespectfully about religion or the king. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter mosques or cemeteries, except the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca . Friday is a holy day across the country, and most people take a few hours off in the afternoon to go to the mosque and eat couscous with their families afterward. Check business opening times before you visit if you're heading to a particular place on a Friday.

The holy month of Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid offer a different cultural experience, and during these times many places will be closed.

9. Things to know before going to Marrakesh

Marrakesh is the most popular city in Morocco for visitors, so pre-book entrance tickets to major attractions such as Jardin Majorelle and Musée Yves Saint Laurent online to avoid waiting in line. The Marrakesh medina comes to life around 5 p.m., but the 'pink city' is more than just the medina – spend time exploring Gueliz and step off the main boulevards onto the leafy side streets to discover pretty street cafes, bistro restaurants and small indie boutiques.

10. The dress code depends on where you are

To visit the Hassan II Mosque and other religious sites, visitors – both men and women – must cover to their shoulders and knees. Dress modestly in cities and towns to avoid unwanted attention. At bars and nightclubs, almost anything goes, but in rural areas, cover up and be respectful of the local customs. 

At the beach, you can wear shorts, dresses, vest tops and swimwear including bikinis. Pack comfortable footwear that’s suitable for uneven roads and a scarf to cover your shoulders.

11. Ask before taking photos of people 

No matter where you are in the world, it’s best to ask permission before taking someone’s photo. Many people are fine with it, but others aren’t. Some may ask for money. Do not take photos of military or government buildings. Drones are not allowed in Morocco without special permission. 

12. Learn how to deal with the hassle

Simply ignore people who offer goods that you do not want. There's no need to be polite to everyone who wants to sell you something. By not reacting, they'll get bored and walk away. 

In some places you may receive comments and, at worst, inappropriate behavior, but shouting ‘Police!’ will send these people away. In Marrakesh, there's also a high chance you will alert the undercover tourist police.

13. Can you drink alcohol in Morocco? 

Even though alcohol is forbidden by Islamic law, it is widely available and sold in licensed wine shops and international grocery stores. Not all bars and restaurants serve alcohol. 

14. Eat with your right hand

Moroccan cuisine such as tagines and grilled fish are traditionally eaten with bread using your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean because it’s typically the hand used when going to the toilet. 

15. It’s okay to get lost

Getting lost is part of the joy of exploring Morocco with its unmarked roads, the maze of souq alleys and areas of no cell phone reception. Relax but be aware of your surroundings and ask for help if you need it.

In medinas, it’s helpful to know that if the street sign is a hexagon, it's a dead end. If it’s a square, it’s a through street.

16. Don’t drink the tap water

Morocco’s tap water is not safe to drink. Bring a water bottle with a filter to avoid buying plastic.

17. Bring tissues for public toilets

Some public toilets do not have toilet paper. Unless you are comfortable using water to clean yourself, keep a pack of tissues and some anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes on you.

18. Street cats and dogs are everywhere and part of the community 

It’s best not to feed street animals from your table because they might not leave, but you can keep leftovers and feed them elsewhere on the street.

See whether a rescue center is set up in the communities you’re visiting and show your support with donations or by volunteering your time.

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Hilton Tangier City Center

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0

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Minutes from the beach and central Tangier

Find us attached to Tangier City Mall, facing the Strait of Gibraltar and Malabata Beachfront. We’re steps from high-speed train station and the Old Medina is within three kilometers. Enjoy our rooftop pool and terrace, with views over the Bay of Tangier. We also offer wellness facilities, including a sauna, steam room, and 24-hour fitness center.

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Free parking

Executive lounge

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Outdoor pool

Fitness center

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Business center

Meeting rooms

Pets not allowed

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With its warm décor and comfortable couches, the Kasbar is the place for relaxed cocktails and light meals. Enjoy city views and tasty tapas at La Terrasse, and sip classic drinks in The Lounge.

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Airport shuttle