Frequently Asked Questions

The best times to visit Morocco are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant throughout most of the country:

• Spring: Ideal for exploring cities, mountains, and desert regions with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes
• Autumn: Perfect weather for all activities, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies
• Summer: Can be very hot, especially in interior regions and the desert, though coastal areas remain pleasant
• Winter: Cold in the mountains and desert nights, but cities remain mild and it's a good time for skiing in the Atlas Mountains

We recommend booking your trip 3-6 months in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons (spring and autumn) or for popular experiences like Sahara desert tours.

For custom itineraries and private tours, earlier planning (6+ months) is advisable to secure the best accommodations and guides. Last-minute bookings (less than 4 weeks) are possible but may have limited availability for premium experiences.

Packing for Morocco depends on the season and regions you'll visit, but here are general recommendations:

• Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes for summer; layers for spring/autumn; warm layers for winter. Modest clothing is recommended, especially for women (covering shoulders and knees)
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for cities, sturdy shoes for hiking, and sandals for warmer areas
• Essentials: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, universal power adapter, personal medications
• For the desert: Warm clothing for cold nights, scarf for dust/sun protection, headlamp or flashlight
• Documents: Passport, travel insurance details, copies of important documents

Visa requirements depend on your nationality:

• No visa required for citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and EU countries for tourist visits of up to 90 days
• Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Morocco
• Some nationalities require a visa in advance - check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country
• All visitors must have a passport with at least one blank page for the entry stamp

Visa policies can change, so we recommend verifying requirements with your local Moroccan embassy before traveling.

As of 2023, Morocco has lifted most COVID-19 restrictions for travelers:

• No vaccination certificate or negative test required for entry
• No quarantine requirements upon arrival
• Health forms are no longer mandatory

However, regulations can change quickly. We recommend checking the latest travel advisories from your government and the Moroccan Ministry of Health before your departure.

No vaccinations are officially required for entry to Morocco, but several are recommended:

• Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu)
• Hepatitis A and Typhoid - through contaminated food or water
• Hepatitis B - through sexual contact, contaminated needles, blood products
• Rabies - if you might be around dogs or wildlife (rural areas)

Consult with a travel medicine specialist or your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss appropriate vaccinations based on your specific itinerary and health status.

The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Here's what you need to know about handling money:

• Dirhams cannot be obtained outside Morocco - you'll need to exchange currency upon arrival
• ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, and usually offer the best exchange rates
• Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas, but cash is essential for markets, smaller establishments, and rural areas
• It's illegal to take Dirhams out of Morocco - exchange any leftover currency before departure
• US Dollars and Euros are the easiest foreign currencies to exchange

We recommend carrying a mix of cash and cards, and keeping small bills for tips and small purchases.

Morocco can suit various budgets, from budget backpackers to luxury travelers:

• Budget travel: $30-50 per day for hostels, street food, and public transportation
• Mid-range travel: $70-120 per day for comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, and guided tours
• Luxury travel: $150+ per day for high-end riads, fine dining, and private guides

Major costs include accommodation, guided tours, and long-distance transportation. Food, local transportation, and entrance fees are generally affordable. The Sahara Desert experiences and private guides represent significant portions of many travelers' budgets.

Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated in Morocco for services. Here are general guidelines:

• Restaurants: 10% of the bill if service charge isn't included
• Guides: 50-100 MAD per day for a good guide
• Drivers: 30-50 MAD per day
• Hotel staff: 10-20 MAD for porters, 10-20 MAD daily for housekeeping
• Public restrooms: 2-5 MAD to the attendant

Tipping should reflect the quality of service. It's always appreciated to tip in local currency (Dirhams).

Morocco is a Muslim country with conservative dress norms, though attitudes are more relaxed in tourist areas. To show respect for local culture:

• Women: Cover shoulders, chest, and knees. Loose-fitting clothing is recommended. Scarves are useful for visiting mosques and more conservative areas
• Men: Avoid going shirtless in public. Shorts are generally acceptable, but long pants are more respectful
• Beachwear: Appropriate only at beach resorts and pools
• Religious sites: Modest dress is essential. Women may need to cover their hair

Dress standards are more conservative in rural areas and smaller towns than in major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca.

Yes, Morocco is generally safe for women travelers, but it's important to be aware of cultural norms and take sensible precautions:

• Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention
• Be prepared for occasional staring or comments, especially in tourist areas
• Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in isolated areas
• Use licensed taxis rather than walking long distances after dark
• Be firm but polite if approached by persistent vendors or guides
• Consider joining group tours or hiring female guides for certain experiences

Many women travel solo or in groups throughout Morocco without issues. Using common sense and respecting local customs will enhance your experience.

Understanding Moroccan customs will enrich your travel experience:

• Greetings: A handshake is common between men. Some Moroccan men may not initiate handshakes with women due to religious beliefs
• Ramadan: During this holy month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Be discreet about eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
• Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women
• Religion: Respect Islamic traditions. Avoid visiting mosques during prayer times (non-Muslims are generally not allowed in most mosques, except Hassan II in Casablanca)
• Haggling: Expected in markets (souks). Start at about half the asking price and negotiate politely
• Alcohol: Available in hotels, bars, and some restaurants, but not widely consumed by locals

Yes, Morocco is generally very safe for tourists. The country has a low crime rate, and Moroccans are known for their hospitality. However, as with any destination, it's important to take normal travel precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur
• Use licensed taxis and agree on fares in advance
• Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night
• Be aware of common tourist scams (fake guides, overcharging)
• Follow local advice regarding areas to avoid

The Moroccan government prioritizes tourist safety, and there is a dedicated tourist police force in major cities.

It's generally recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Morocco, especially for visitors who aren't accustomed to it. Here are some guidelines:

• Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive
• Check that bottle seals are intact when purchasing
• Use bottled water for brushing teeth in areas where water quality is questionable
• Avoid ice in drinks unless you're sure it was made with purified water
• Be cautious with raw fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in tap water

In higher-end hotels and restaurants in major cities, water filtration systems may make tap water safe, but it's better to err on the side of caution.

Morocco has a range of healthcare facilities:

• Major cities: Good private hospitals and clinics with modern equipment and English-speaking staff
• Smaller cities: Adequate public hospitals and private clinics, though facilities may be more basic
• Rural areas: Basic health centers; serious conditions require transfer to larger cities

Important recommendations:

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation
• Carry a sufficient supply of any prescription medications
• Bring a basic travel medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, and bandages
• Know the location of reputable medical facilities in areas you'll be visiting