Wondering about tips on travelling to Morocco?
Travelling to Morocco is a vibrant and sensory experience. The culture and country is characterised with stunning history and North African architecture, bustling marketplaces, diverse landscapes, rich Amazigh culture and a strong emphasis on hospitality.
So with some tips – and a little inside traveller-heads-up – Morocco is about to be one of the top travel-experiences you have ever encountered.
Here are 15 practical tips on travelling to Morocco to help you pack, plan and know what to expect when you arrive.
What are the most important tips on travelling to Morocco?
Welcome to Morocco! It’s safe to say we love this incredible North African gem.
I started writing this Morocco travel blog as we wrapped up eight months of travel – in all directions – all over Morocco.
But for a first-time visitor, planning a trip to Morocco can feel overwhelming of confusing. Many people have hesitations because it is a Muslim country and they don’t know what to expect.
But rest assured, Morocco has been welcoming travellers for literally centuries since caravans of camels traversed the Sahara Desert.
It is a welcoming and friendly country with incredible history, culture, food and landscapes that make it an amazing choice for travel.
So here we go.
In no particular order – but each with equal importance – here are 15 of the top tips for travelling to Morocco to ready you with confidence and know-how for your first time.
1. Respect local customs and culture in Morocco
Morocco is a traditional country with deep roots in the Amazigh (Berber) culture and in Islam. You aren’t expected to know all about it in detail. But as a traveller there are a few tips for travelling to Morocco that can help you smoothly act respectfully.
It is polite to greet people with a friendly “Salam Alaikum” and for men, a handshake is respectful when meeting them for the first time.
Handshakes are common when greeting both men and women in formal situations. Though stick to shaking hands with the same gender as yourself.
When greeting, giving, or accepting items, it’s considered respectful to use your right hand. You will notice men greet each other with their right hand touched to their heart.
When eating with your hands, try to use only your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean and is not used for food. The right hand, however, is used to shake hands with, eat with and pretty much do everything else with.
Even if you are left-handed, try to give it a go. Though usually you will be offered cutlery (which you can use with both hands) or a spoon to eat Couscous on a Friday.
If you get invited to someone’s home (which is a real honour), bring a small gift for the host. Pastries, dates, juices or sweets are always a safe bet.
It’s polite to eat and drink what you are offered, even if you don’t really fancy it.
- Tip: Be respectful of culture and customs. Remove your shoes entering a home, eat with your right hand and shake hands only with the same gender as yourself.
- Read our detailed guide to travel in Morocco.
2. Be mindful of religious and cultural etiquette
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country. Obviously, that is a huge part of travel to Morocco and one that does need a bit more awareness and understanding before you depart.
While it’s okay to ask questions to learn more about the religion, you should avoid offering any opinions that may be controversial. Disrespecting Islam can be deeply offensive to locals.
Fridays are the holy day in Islam. As such, many local shops and restaurants are closed on Friday in Morocco.
Friday is usually the day that family and friends get together for a traditional shared meal of Couscous after prayer.
- Tip: Be respectful of Moroccan culture and mindful of Muslim etiquette.
- Read our detailed guide to travel in Morocco during Ramadan.
3. Dress appropriately – Tips on travelling to Morocco
In spite of the glamorously portrayed but borderline skimpy Instagram dresses posed in front of famous Moroccan sites, Morocco is still largely a traditional society.
Though overall, Morocco is not as conservative as many Islamic nations. Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, where modesty in all aspects of life is key.
Modesty in dress in important, especially for women, and in the rural areas and conservative regions of the country.
Female travellers visiting Morocco aren’t expected to dress as conservatively as local women. But for visitors, modest dress is respectful and appreciated.
- Tip: Dress modestly and be respectful.
- Read more about what to wear in Morocco and tips for what to pack.
4. Learn (or at least attempt) a little bit of language
Now, you certainly aren’t expected to arrive with levels of Darija fluency to Morocco. But this tip for travelling to Morocco is more about understanding what the primary and official languages of Morocco are.
Morocco’s two official languages are Moroccan Arabic (known as Darija) and Amazigh. But many Moroccans speak and understand French and can also understand some classic Arabic.
Moroccans primarily use Darija (Moroccan Arabic) for day-to-day interactions and conversations, making it the most common spoken language in the country for everyday life.
While French is widely understood, it historically caries trauma of the tumultuous history with France and it isn’t a preferred language to use in greeting.
Classic Arabic is used in formal settings of education and government.
Amazigh is the name of the official, standardized language of the indigenous people of Morocco.
The Amazigh language has been in use for thousands of years though was only recently recognised as an official language in 2011. It uses the Tifinagh alphabet, which you will on many official road and highway signs.
Although typically Moroccans will greet you with traditional Islamic Arabic. The Amazigh and Berber languages are an important shared heritage of all Moroccans.
- As-salaam Alaykum – Peace be with you (this is interchangeable for ‘hello’)
- Walaykum As-salaam – response (and peace be upon you)
- Sbah l’kheir – Good morning
- Labas? – How are you?
- Shukrun – Thank you.
Perhaps the most important language tips for travelling to Morocco before you start feeling proud of your high school French finally coming in handy; is to hold it right there.
Rather, try first with the Islamic Arabic greeting or simply ask ‘La bas?’ which means ‘How are you?’ in Moroccan Arabic.
- Tip: Try a greeting or thank you in Arabic or Darija.
5. Eat the food and drink confidently (knowledgeably)
For many, one of the top things to do in Morocco is eat! Morocco is full of colourful and diverse culinary delights.
From the famous Friday couscous to the slow-cooked Mechoui and Tangia heated on the fire of the Hammam, to deep-fried salty sardines and soft doughnut-Sfenj. There is something for everyone.
Moroccans know their food.
Rather, the challenge as a first time visitor is narrowing down the ever-growing list of food to try in Morocco.
It’s a good idea to be cautious with street food to avoid any stomach issues. Stick to bottled water and avoid tap water unless you’re in a reputable establishment.
- Tip: Eat the food and try new tastes. But do be cautious with street food and don’t drink the tap water.
- Read Moroccan foods to try in Morocco on your first visit.
6. Don’t follow just anyone – or especially the kid – who offers directions
The market in the medina of Fes, Rabat or Marrakech are like a labyrinth of narrow passageways lined with shops. Each corridor of shops is unofficially divided by the type of items being sold.
But as a first-time visitor in Morocco, it can be (justly) overwhelming to make headway navigating on your lonesome.
We all hear stories of scams and touts in Morocco. But I am the first to jump to the defence in this instance.
It isn’t like you hear.
We always believe that travel anywhere in the world is a privilege experience. Which for the most part, you get out what you put in.
Moroccans are naturally friendly and welcoming. We didn’t feel hassled or scammed in any of our eight months in Morocco.
But if there is one tip for travelling to Morocco that would be useful to tuck away. It would be the reminder not to follow the first person who approaches you to offer to show you the way.
How did they even know what you were looking for?
Well, you may not have adhered to the tip above about blending in with non-touristic or revealing clothes. Or you likely just look like every other tourist.
Whatever the reason, this occasionally could be a scam to show you the way and then ask you for money. We hope it’s not. There are of course many instances where this is not the case, and it really is a local genuinely offering support.
- Tip: Don’t follow the first person who offers to guide you; and certainly, don’t follow or enlist the help of young kids.
- Read about things to do in Fes and Marrakech.
7. Rent a car or take public transport
You can get around Morocco by train, bus, taxi, rental car, plane, or rideshare.
Or you can book a tour and package with transport included.
The reality though is that Morocco is absolutely doable independently. Renting a car can be a great way to explore Morocco’s remote regions.
Or to move between the cities you can take the train (high-speed or local) or tourist buses.
Taxis are the most popular form of transport in the cities. Though note there are two types of taxi in Morocco. Grand Taxis travel intercity and around the outskirts of the large towns. While Petit Taxis are used inside the busy cities and can only transport three passengers at a time.
- Tip: Rent a car or travel independently with public transport.
- Read all about driving in Morocco.
8. Respect the landscape and seasons in Morocco
Food and what to wear aside, one of the most popular searches before travelling to Morocco is about the best time to visit.
Much of Morocco’s weather is typical of a four-season climate – super hot in the summer without much rain, winter turning wet, snowy and humid with milder conditions, and the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring with warm to mild temperatures.
But the truth is that despite the desert inference, Morocco has a range of climates and temperatures that change throughout the yar and around the country.
- Winter (December – February)
- Summer (June – August)
- Spring (March – May)
- Autumn (September to November)
Travel in the inland desert region in July and August are the hottest months of the year. The summer in Moroccan Sahara can get stiflingly hot. (Obviously; it is a desert).
Temperatures can soar to well above 40°C. But do be prepared that in the winter – even in the Sahara regions of Morocco – the temperatures can drop significantly overnight.
Marrakech is classed as a semi-arid climate, but as it’s north of the Atlas Mountains, it can’t be described as a desert city. Even if at times, it sure does feel like it!
- Tip: Respect the seasons and bring a fleece or jacket if you are staying overnight in the desert or Atlas Mountains.
- Read about riding the iron ore train in Mauritania across the Sahara Desert.
9. Get out of the cities
Morocco is a large country geographically, which is a huge part of the allure to visit. There are a multitude of famed and varied destinations to add to your itinerary.
The population is somewhere around 38 million making it one of the more populated countries in Africa. But the country is large in land size and there are many smaller cities and towns where you will be well off the beaten track.
It is a worthwhile tip for travelling to Morocco to take heed and get out of the larger cities.
Do visit them too. (You can’t go to Morocco and not see Marrakesh or Casablanca or Rabat). But we recommend the smaller cities like Chefchaouen, Zagora and Essaouira too. Asilah in the north is a small city with a beautiful UNESCO medina and iconic white and blue walls.
Or head inland to some of the towns in the Atlas Mountains like Tiznit or Taroudant from Agadir. Go further south to Sidi Ifni and the camel market at Guelmim. Or take a coastal road trip from Essaouira back up towards Rabat.
- Tip: Get out of the cities and experience the smaller towns and rural, desert or coastal Morocco too.
10. Negotiate and haggle (but fairly)
It is customary to discuss and bargain over prices, particularly in the souks, where almost everything is negotiable unless a fixed price is clearly stated.
Negotiating prices is all part and parcel of travelling to Morocco. But as a respectful traveller there is a responsibility to uphold to be fair.
Bargain where appropriate, but don’t begrudge a few Dirham to someone who is clearly worse off than you.
Most transactions in the souk are in cash except for large expensive items. Remember not to flash your cash around before you strike a deal!
Do some research beforehand to understand the typical price range for the items you want to buy. Make sure the price is fair for all parties.
- Tip: Bargaining is fun and offers an interesting cultural insight into the artistic traditions of Morocco. But do some research first and be sure to negotiate fairly.
- Read how to visit Anza Souk in Agadir.
11. Ask before taking photos
All over the world, people deem it impolite to portray people without asking. It is the same in Morocco.
Some locals will refuse being photographed for religious reasons.
You can always ask someone, and while many may be more than happy you probably will find several that say no. Don’t be offended if they say no.
But do ask before taking photos of people. It doesn’t hurt to ask.
- Tip: If you’re wanting to take a picture of a person’s face, always ask permission.
12. Take tea
Moroccan tea, known as ‘Maghrebi mint tea’ or simply Moroccan tea, is a symbol of hospitality. It’s customary for Moroccans to offer tea to guests as a welcoming gesture.
Even if you don’t typically drink sweet or herbal tea at home, don’t write it off.
You can ask for it with less sugar or to be less sweet. But it is much more than just the type or flavour of tea. In Morocco, tea is a common gesture of welcome and hospitality.
- Tip: Take the tea.
13. Get a SIM card for travelling to Morocco
We all rely so much on the internet these days. In Morocco, its useful for navigating, translating, booking accommodation and activities. Plus having mobile data is genuinely the best way of capturing all the incredible sights and sounds to share back home and on social media.
Hotels and accommodation in Morocco do (mostly) have WIFI. It’s not that outdated – unless you are blissfully out of range in the Moroccan Sahara.
But the truth is we need mobile data readily these days and it will make your Morocco adventure more relaxing (ha!) and enjoyable.
To keep it simple, you essentially have three options for staying connected with mobile data while traveling in Morocco:
- Extend you home mobile plan
- Buy a local SIM card for Morocco
- Get an eSIM for Morocco
You could extend your plan from home and use your native SIM card internationally. However, most international roaming plans (sorry) can be eye-wateringly expensive.
We recommend it as a pretty much essential tip on travelling to Morocco that you get a SIM card of some sort for your travels.
- Tip: Get an eSIM or physical SIM card for travel in Morocco.
- Read all about how to get a SIM card for Morocco.
14. Get travel insurance before travelling to Morocco
Don’t be a fool. One of the most important tips for travelling to Morocco – or anywhere for that matter – is to always get travel insurance.
It’s best to buy travel insurance as soon as you make your first booking – this ensures you’re covered if you need to change or cancel any of your plans before you travel.
Make sure you are covered for emergency evacuation and for any adventure activities you plan to get involved in.
In Morocco, most private clinics and hospitals require payment ahead of treatment. Which can be a lot depending on the situation!
Have you read our story of getting Dengue Fever in India and being hospitalised in New Delhi? We had at this stage been travelling for more than five years fulltime and on the very last day (literally) before flying home to New Zealand we were out searching for a hospital in Delhi.
Fortunately, we had great travel insurance. (This is who we use).
- Tip: Don’t be a fool. Get travel insurance for Morocco.
- Get an instant quote for travel insurance online with the insurance company we can recommend.
- Read about getting Dengue Fever in India.
15. Our last tip on travelling to Morocco? Trust your gut.
Don’t get hung up on potential scams or stories you heard from others who haven’t actually ever visited Morocco.
More than anything, trust your gut. Enjoy Morocco. Remember that many people travel to Morocco – millions every year – and have a great time!
Let yourself fully experience Morocco.
It is an incredible destination for travel, food, history, landscapes, culture – and so much more!
- Tip: Trust your gut instinct.
So what are the most important tips on travelling to Morocco?
Essentially, these are the best tips on travelling to Morocco to ensure you have the absolute best experience.
- Be respectful of culture and customs. Remove your shoes entering a home, eat with your right hand and shake hands only with the same gender as yourself.
- Dress modestly.
- Try a greeting or thank you in Arabic or Darija.
- Eat the food and try new tastes. But do be cautious with street food and don’t drink the tap water.
- Don’t follow the first person who offers to guide you; and certainly, don’t follow or enlist the help of young kids.
- Respect the seasons and bring a fleece or jacket if you are staying overnight in the desert or Atlas Mountains.
- Get out of the cities and experience the smaller towns and rural, desert or coastal Morocco too.
- Bargaining is fun and offers an interesting cultural insight into the artistic traditions of Morocco. But do some research first and be sure to negotiate fairly.
- If you’re wanting to take a picture of a person’s face, always ask permission.
- Take the tea.
- Don’t be a fool. Get travel insurance for Morocco.
- Get an eSIM or physical SIM card for travel in Morocco.
- Trust your gut.
Where to stay in Marrakech
Marrakech is well known for its seemingly limitless range of beautiful accommodation. But as far as accommodation tips for travelling to Morocco – we recommend you stay in a traditional Riad in Marrakech.
You will definitely find something to match your budget. There is a huge range of beautiful, historical and traditional riads to choose from.
Here is our pick of the best range of budget, mid-range and luxury riads in Marrakech to choose from.
Budget riads in Marrakech
Mid-range riads in Marrakech
Luxury riads in Marrakech
Where to next on your Morocco itinerary?
Here are some other itinerary ideas for Morocco.
- 5x Itineraries for 7-days in Morocco.
- 10 days in Morocco? 5x Morocco itinerary options.
- Plan 2-days in Marrakech.
- 8-day Morocco itinerary: Marrakech to Zagora and M’Hamid.
- 10-day Morocco itinerary: Tangier to Fes, Chefcahouen and Marrakech.
See our detailed destination and city guides for more of Morocco.
- Read more about the things to do in Chefcahouen, Casablanca, Tangier, Tetouan, Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght, Fes and Rabat.
Or if you are considering staying longer in Morocco or crossing south to Mauritania, see our travel guides for border crossings with Morocco.
- Read about crossing the Morocco Mauritania border from Dakhla.
- Read about crossing the border from F’nideq (Morocco) to Ceuta (Spain).
More tips for travelling to Morocco and beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before planning any packing lists or wondering more tips for travelling to Morocco!