Morocco Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Getting Started & General Planning
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Morocco? A: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are generally considered the best, with pleasant temperatures. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in the desert, while winter can be cool and even snowy in the Atlas Mountains.
Q: Is Morocco a safe country for tourists? A: Yes, Morocco is generally safe. However, petty crime like pickpocketing is common in touristy areas. The most significant issue for tourists is often the persistent hassle and scams.
Q: What is the currency and should I bring cash? A: The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Cash is king, especially in smaller shops, souks, and for taxis. ATMs are widely available in cities, but it’s wise to have cash on hand.
Q: Can I use credit cards? A: Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and large stores accept credit cards, but many places, especially in the medinas, are cash-only.
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco? A: Most nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, Canada, and EU countries, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality before you travel.
Culture & Etiquette
Q: What languages are spoken in Morocco? A: The official languages are Moroccan Arabic (Darija) and Berber. French is widely spoken and is a legacy of the colonial era. English is common in tourist areas.
Q: Do I need to learn Arabic or French? A: A few words of Moroccan Arabic (“Shukran” for thank you, “La shukran” for no thank you, “Salam” for hello) will be appreciated. French is very helpful for communication outside of the main tourist hubs.
Q: How should women dress in Morocco? A: While there is no official dress code for tourists, it’s best to dress modestly to show respect for the local culture and to minimize unwanted attention. Covering your shoulders and knees is a good rule of thumb.
Q: What is a hammam? A: A traditional Moroccan public bathhouse. It is a cleansing and relaxing experience, often involving steam, scrubbing, and massage. You can find public and private hammams.
Q: Are non-Muslims allowed to enter mosques? A: Generally, no. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is a notable exception, which offers tours for non-Muslims.
Q: Is it okay to take photos of people? A: Always ask for permission before taking a photo of a person, especially in the medina or souks. Some people may ask for a small tip in return.
Q: Is haggling expected? A: Yes, in the souks and markets, haggling is part of the culture. A good starting point is to offer half or less than the initial asking price and negotiate from there.
Q: How much should I tip? A: Tipping is a common practice. For a restaurant bill, 10-15% is standard. For guides and drivers, a few dollars per person per day is appropriate.
Transportation
Q: What’s the best way to get between cities? A: The train system (ONCF) is efficient, comfortable, and a popular choice for traveling between major cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca. Supratours and CTM are reliable bus companies.
Q: Should I rent a car? A: Renting a car gives you flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas and the Atlas Mountains. However, driving in cities can be chaotic, and parking can be difficult.
Q: Are taxis safe and how do I use them? A: Taxis are generally safe but can overcharge tourists. Always agree on a price beforehand or insist the driver uses the meter (“le compteur”). In big cities, ride-sharing apps like inDrive are a good alternative.
Q: What about getting around the medinas? A: The medinas are car-free zones. You’ll get around on foot, and it’s easy to get lost. Downloading an offline map (like Google Maps) is highly recommended.
Food & Drink
Q: Is the tap water safe to drink? A: It’s generally not recommended for tourists to drink tap water. Stick to bottled water.
Q: What are the must-try Moroccan foods? A: Tagine (a slow-cooked stew), couscous (often served on Fridays), pastilla (a savory-sweet pie), and harira soup are classics. Don’t forget to try mint tea, fresh orange juice, and street food like mssemen (pancakes) and chebakia (a pretzel-shaped pastry).
Q: Can I drink alcohol in Morocco? A: Yes, alcohol is available in tourist areas, especially in riads, hotels, and some restaurants. It is not widely available in public or in traditional quarters.
Scams & Safety
Q: What are common scams to be aware of? A: Common scams include “fake guides” who offer to take you somewhere and then demand a high fee, “closed riad” scams where someone tells you your hotel is closed and tries to take you to a different one, and inflated prices for goods and services.
Q: How do I deal with “fake guides” in the medinas? A: Firmly say “non” or “la shukran” and keep walking without making eye contact.
Q: Is solo female travel safe in Morocco? A: Solo female travelers report a mix of experiences. It is generally safe, but they may receive more unwanted attention and harassment. Dressing modestly and being aware of your surroundings can help.
Q: What should I do if I feel unsafe? A: Enter a restaurant or shop, or go to a well-lit, public area. If someone is being overly aggressive, mentioning the tourist police can often de-escalate the situation.
Accommodation
Q: What is a riad? A: A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard or garden. They are a popular and authentic accommodation choice, often offering a quiet and beautiful retreat from the bustling medinas.
Desert & Atlas Mountains
Q: How do I book a Sahara desert tour? A: You can book a tour in advance online or through your accommodation. Alternatively, you can book through a reputable agency once you are in Marrakech or Fes.
Q: Is it better to do a private or a group desert tour? A: Group tours are more budget-friendly. Private tours offer more flexibility and a personalized itinerary.
Q: How long should a desert tour be? A: A 3-day, 2-night tour is the most common. It allows you to see the Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, and spend a night in the Sahara.
Q: What’s the best way to get to the desert? A: The journey to the desert is a long one, so most people opt for a guided tour with transport included.
Specific Cities
Q: Is it worth visiting Casablanca? A: Casablanca is a modern city and not as historically rich as others. The Hassan II Mosque is a major highlight, but many travelers suggest a short stay or skipping it in favor of other cities.
Q: Why are reviews for Fes and Marrakech so different? A: Fes is often described as more traditional, authentic, and a “living museum.” Marrakech is more vibrant, commercial, and often seen as a more “touristy” destination.
Q: Is Chefchaouen worth the trip? A: Chefchaouen, the “Blue City,” is a popular and very photogenic destination. It is in the Rif Mountains, so the journey can be long. It’s often included in northern Morocco itineraries.
Q: What’s a good day trip from Marrakech? A: Popular day trips include the Atlas Mountains, the coastal town of Essaouira, or the Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou.
Q: Is Rabat a good city to visit? A: Rabat, the capital, is often described as a more laid-back, clean, and less hectic alternative to Marrakech and Fes. It has a beautiful medina and historical sites.
Q: What’s the vibe of Essaouira? A: Essaouira is a relaxed, coastal town known for its strong winds (popular for wind sports), fresh seafood, and a more bohemian atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind after the busy imperial cities.
Health & Packing
Q: What vaccinations do I need for Morocco? A: Check with your doctor or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date recommendations. Common vaccinations may include Hepatitis A and B, and typhoid.
Q: What should I pack for Morocco? A: Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, a scarf for women, a light jacket for cool evenings, sun protection, and a portable power bank.
Q: Do I need a power adapter? A: Morocco uses Type C and Type E plugs, which are the same as most of continental Europe.
Q: Are there any specific health concerns? A: Stomach issues from food and water are the most common complaint. Avoid drinking tap water, and use common sense with street food.
Miscellaneous
Q: Is it easy to get SIM cards for my phone? A: Yes, you can buy a Moroccan SIM card at the airport or from official stores of providers like Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi.
Q: What are the main differences between a hostel and a riad? A: Hostels are typically dorm-style, budget-friendly, and geared toward backpackers. Riads are traditional guesthouses with private rooms, often more luxurious and focused on cultural immersion.
Q: What’s the etiquette for shopping and haggling? A: Start with a polite “hello” (“Salam”) and a smile. If you’re not interested, a firm “la shukran” is acceptable. Be prepared to walk away if you can’t agree on a price.
Q: Is there an equivalent to Uber in Morocco? A: Yes, the most popular app is “inDrive,” which functions similarly to Uber but allows you to negotiate the price with the driver before you accept the ride.
Q: What is the most scenic drive in Morocco? A: The road trip over the Tizi n’Tichka pass through the Atlas Mountains, especially on the way to the Sahara, is incredibly scenic.
Q: Can I use my drone in Morocco? A: The use of drones is restricted and can lead to confiscation and fines. It’s best to leave your drone at home.