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Comprehensive Guide: Things to Know Before Visiting Morocco
Planning a trip to Morocco is exciting, and knowing what to expect will help you make the most of your journey. Here is an in-depth guide covering the essentials, from weather and currency to the types of destinations you will encounter.
The Best Time to Travel
Morocco’s diverse geography means the climate varies wildly from the coast to the mountains and the desert.
Spring (March to May) & Autumn (September to November) These are universally considered the best times to visit Morocco. The weather is warm and pleasant across the entire country. The days are sunny, making it perfect for exploring the cities, hiking the Atlas Mountains, and taking overnight trips into the Sahara without the extreme summer heat.
Winter (December to February) Winter in Morocco is mild during the day, especially in the south and cities like Marrakech, making sightseeing very comfortable. However, temperatures drop dramatically at night. The Sahara Desert can be freezing after dark, and the High Atlas Mountains receive heavy snow. If traveling in winter, packing warm layers is essential.
Summer (June to August) Summer is incredibly hot, particularly in the inland Imperial Cities (like Fes and Marrakech) and the Sahara Desert, where temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). During this time, coastal cities like Essaouira, Tangier, and Agadir are ideal, offering cool ocean breezes and perfect beach weather.
Currency, Money Matters, and Shopping
Understanding how money works in Morocco will make your daily interactions much smoother.
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham. It is a closed currency, meaning you generally cannot buy or sell it outside of Morocco. You will need to exchange money or use ATMs upon arrival at the airport or in the cities.
Cash is King While luxury hotels, modern supermarkets, and high-end restaurants accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), Morocco remains a predominantly cash-based society. You will need cash for purchasing items in the souks, paying for taxis, buying street food, and tipping.
Haggling in the Souks Bargaining is a core part of Moroccan shopping culture in the traditional markets (souks). When buying carpets, leather goods, ceramics, or souvenirs, the first price offered is rarely the final price. Approach haggling with a friendly smile and a sense of humor; it is meant to be a polite negotiation, not an argument.
Types of Touristic Places You Will Experience
Morocco offers a unique blend of architectural and geographical wonders. Here are the types of places you will explore on our tours:
The Ancient Medinas A Medina is the historic, walled center of a Moroccan city. The Medinas of Fes and Marrakech are UNESCO World Heritage sites. They are characterized by narrow, maze-like alleyways, bustling markets (souks), historic mosques, and artisan workshops. Cars are typically not allowed inside.
Riads and Dars These are traditional Moroccan houses built around an interior courtyard or garden, typically located inside the Medina. Many have been beautifully restored into boutique guesthouses. Staying in a Riad offers an authentic, tranquil retreat from the busy streets outside.
Kasbahs and Ksars A Kasbah is a traditional fortress or citadel, while a Ksar is a fortified village, usually made of earthen clay and straw. They are primarily found in the southern valleys and along the ancient caravan routes. Ait Benhaddou is the most famous example of a traditional Ksar.
The Sahara Dunes (Ergs) Morocco’s desert experience is defined by the “Ergs” (seas of sand dunes). Erg Chebbi in Merzouga features towering, golden dunes, while Erg Chigaga near Zagora offers a more rugged, remote desert experience.
Local Culture and Etiquette
Morocco is a welcoming and hospitable country with deep-rooted Islamic traditions. Respecting local customs will greatly enhance your experience.
Dress Code Morocco is a conservative country. While tourists are not expected to dress traditionally, modesty is highly appreciated and will attract less unwanted attention. Both men and women should aim to cover their shoulders and knees. Loose, breathable clothing is best. On the beach or by your hotel pool, standard swimwear is completely fine.
Photography Morocco is incredibly photogenic, but you should always ask permission before taking a photo of a local person, particularly women and merchants in the souks. Some may politely decline, while others may ask for a small tip in exchange for a photo.
Friday is the Holy Day In the Islamic calendar, Friday is the holy day. While tourist attractions generally remain open, you will notice that many local shops and businesses in the medinas close around midday for Friday prayers, reopening in the late afternoon.
Food and Drink
Moroccan cuisine is world-renowned, blending Arabic, Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean influences.
What to Eat You will undoubtedly experience Tagine (a slow-cooked savory stew prepared in a conical clay pot) and Couscous (traditionally served on Fridays). Other must-try foods include Pastilla (a sweet and savory meat pie), Harira (a rich tomato and lentil soup), and an abundance of fresh olives and bread.
Moroccan Mint Tea Often jokingly referred to as “Moroccan Whiskey,” sweet mint tea is the symbol of Moroccan hospitality. It is served everywhere, from carpet shops to riads, and accepting a glass is a great way to connect with locals.
Drinking Water It is highly recommended that travelers stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing their teeth. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere. Avoid ice in your drinks unless you are in a high-end tourist establishment that uses purified water.
Connectivity and Getting Around
Internet and Wi-Fi Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, riads, cafes, and restaurants in the cities. However, connection speeds can vary, and Wi-Fi may not be available in remote mountain areas or deep in the Sahara Desert.
SIM Cards If you want data on your phone while traveling, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card (from providers like Maroc Telecom, Inwi, or Orange) is very cheap and easy. You can usually buy one right at the airport luggage claim or at small kiosks in any city.
