Travel tips for Morocco
Everything you need to know for a successful trip to Morocco
Travel tips for Morocco
Ramadan
Description: If your stay coincides with the month of Ramadan, be aware that some restaurants and shops will be closed during the day. Activity is a bit slower during the day, but it is still possible to do activities. It is respectful not to eat, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours.
Where to go in Morocco ?
- Marrakesh :
« The Red City » with its Jemaa el-Fna square and souks, and the Majorelle Garden. Atmosphere guaranteed. - Fes :
The oldest imperial city, the spiritual capital with its UNESCO World Heritage medieval medina and its tanneries. A genuine journey back in time. - Meknes :
Less touristy than Fes, but equally charming with its imposing ramparts and the Bab Mansour gate. - Rabat :
The capital, both modern and historical, featuring Chellah, the Kasbah of the Oudayas, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
- Agadir:
A large, modern seaside resort, perfect for families and those seeking beaches. - Casablanca:
Casablanca is the economic capital of Morocco and its largest city, concentrating a large part of the country’s industry and trade. It is famous for the Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece, and its architecture blending Art Deco and Neo-Moorish styles
- Essaouira :The « City of the Winds, » is a charming Moroccan port city on the Atlantic coast, famous for its UNESCO-listed fortified medina and its relaxed atmosphere. Its historic ramparts offer magnificent ocean views, and it attracts watersports enthusiasts.
- Ouarzazate, « the gateway to the desert, » the Hollywood of Morocco, and the starting point for the Sahara. Must-see attractions near the city include the magnificent Aït Benhaddou Kasbah (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Fint Oasis, and the Dades and Todra Gorges.
- Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) and M’Hamid (Erg Chigaga): Unforgettable experiences in the Sahara dunes, featuring camel rides and starry nights under Berber tents or sleeping under the stars.
- The Atlas Mountains are North Africa’s massive, rugged spine, stretching across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia.
In Morocco, they divide the country into coastal plains and the Sahara desert. - The range is segmented into the High, Middle, and Anti-Atlas, featuring the highest peak, Mount Toubkal ( m). The mountains are rich in biodiversity and are the heartland of Morocco’s ancient Berber culture, offering spectacular opportunities for trekking and immersion in mountain life.Les montagnes de l’Atlas
- Chefchaouen is Morocco’s iconic Blue Pearl, nestled high in the Rif Mountains. Its stunning blue-washed buildings create a tranquil, photogenic atmosphere, perfect for relaxed exploration and hiking.
- Tangier, by contrast, is a vibrant port city, historically a gateway between Africa and Europe. It boasts a beautiful mix of bustling modernity, old international intrigue, and scenic views where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.Chefchaouen
Weather
Spring (March–May): Ideal period with pleasant temperatures (), green vegetation, and rare rainfall.
Summer (June–August): High temperatures in the South (). The Atlantic coast remains cooler thanks to the trade winds.
Autumn (September–November): Excellent period with mild temperatures and generous sunshine.
Winter (December–February): Mild on the coast (), but can be cold in the mountains with snow in the Atlas.
Communication
Languages: Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) are the official languages. French is widely spoken, as is Spanish in the north.
Internet: WiFi is available in most hotels, cafés, and restaurants in tourist areas.
Phone: Excellent mobile coverage. It is possible to buy a local SIM card for favorable rates
Roaming: Check rates with your operator before departure to avoid unwelcome surprises.
Money
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD) in December 2025
100 dirham = USD 10.83 (USA) 8.18 LS (England) 15.13 CAD (Canada)
Exchange: Prioritize banks, official exchange offices, or large hotels. Avoid exchanging money in the street.
Bank Cards: Widely accepted in major cities, hotels, and restaurants. Numerous ATMs are available in tourist areas.
Cash: Essential for purchases in souks, small restaurants, and for tipping.
Tipping: The amount varies depending on the duration, the service, and the quality of the service provided. Don’t hesitate to be generous!
Tipping is a common practice in Morocco because it represents a significant supplementary income for guides, drivers, waiters, and porters.
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Health
Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccines are required. Check that your routine vaccinations (tetanus, diphtheria, polio) are up to date.
Water: Prefer sealed bottled water. Avoid ice cubes and wash your hands regularly.
Food: Consume food that is well-cooked and hot. Be wary of raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits.
Sun: Sun protection is essential (cream, hat, sunglasses). The sun can be deceiving at high altitudes and in the desert.
Pharmacies: Well-equipped in major cities. Bring enough of your usual medications with you.
Security
Morocco is generally a safe country for tourists. However, as anywhere, a few precautions should be taken
Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and scams are possible in heavily frequented tourist areas (souks, squares). Therefore, be vigilant with your personal belongings.
False Guides: In the Medinas, people may present themselves as official guides. Politely refuse or make sure they have an official badge/card.
Sales Harassment: Vendors can be very insistent, especially in the souks. Negotiating is part of the local culture, but learn to say « No Thank You » firmly but politely.
Traditions
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is permitted but should be discreet. Avoid drinking in public. It is more readily available in international hotels.
- Photos: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and children. Some locals may ask for a small sum of money in exchange.
- Tipping (Baksheesh): Tipping is a common and expected practice for many services (restaurants, taxis, guides, drivers, porters).
Ecology
- Water is a precious resource in Morocco. Use it sparingly.
- Waste:Do not leave your waste in nature
- Sustainable Tourism:Choose local accommodations and service providers who are committed to tourism that respects the environment and the local population.
