Morocco Travel Tips & Things to Know Before You Go

Posted on May 15, 2025 | Julie J. |

Planning a trip to Morocco can be both exciting and a little intimidating. Before my first visit, I read plenty of guides and blogs—but still found myself caught off guard by a few things once I was on the ground.

After spending a month traveling through the country, from the chaos of Marrakesh to the calm blue streets of Chefchaouen, I picked up a few insights that would’ve made the trip smoother if I’d known them ahead of time.

This guide brings together all the practical tips and cultural quirks I wish I’d known before going. Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer journey through the mountains, deserts, and coasts, here’s everything you need to know to travel Morocco with more ease and confidence.

At a glance:

Getting around: trains, buses, car rental.
Pack: layers, clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
Get: travel insurance, travel adapter, local SIM, offline map.
Getting in: 90-day visa-free for the US and most European countries.
Average daily budget: $50 to $150.
Best time to visit: spring and fall.

What to Wear & Cultural Etiquette in Morocco

Dress Modestly—Especially Outside the Big Cities

While Morocco is relatively relaxed compared to some countries in the region, it’s still a conservative, predominantly Muslim country. As a general rule, both men and women will feel more comfortable (and get less unwanted attention) by covering shoulders and knees. Long, loose clothing also helps with the sun and heat.

Women don’t need to wear a headscarf, but having one on hand can be useful—like for entering religious sites, dusty roads, or even for extra warmth.

Beachwear Is for the Beach

It’s fine to wear a swimsuit on the beach, especially in tourist-friendly spots like Essaouira or Agadir, but once you leave the sand, it’s courteous to cover up. Topless sunbathing is frowned upon and can attract a lot of unwanted attention.

Greetings & Social Norms

A friendly salaam alaikum (“peace be upon you”) is a warm way to say hello. You’ll often hear la bas? (“all good?”) in casual conversation. Handshakes are common, but between men and women, it’s polite to wait and see if the other person initiates.

It’s also respectful to use your right hand when giving or receiving something—especially food—and avoid pointing with your feet or touching things with your left hand.

Public Displays of Affection

Holding hands is common, even between friends of the same gender, but kissing, hugging, or other romantic gestures in public are best avoided.

Respect Local Customs During Ramadan

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful that many locals are fasting from dawn to sunset. Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day isn’t illegal, but it’s polite to be discreet or do so in private or designated areas.

Staying Connected & Internet Access in Morocco

Get a Local SIM Card

If you want reliable mobile data throughout your trip, getting a local SIM card is the way to go. Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi are the main providers—Maroc Telecom usually has the best rural coverage. You can buy a SIM card at the airport or in any major city (just bring your passport), and top-up packages are very affordable.

For example, 10 GB of data typically costs less than $10 USD.

eSIMs Work Too (For Some Phones)

If you have an eSIM-compatible phone, consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip or upon arrival. Services like Airalo or Holafly offer Moroccan eSIMs you can activate instantly—perfect if you don’t want to deal with finding a shop or swapping cards.

Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels, riads, and guesthouses offer free Wi-Fi, and it’s usually decent in urban areas. Cafés often have Wi-Fi too, but connections can be spotty, especially in smaller towns or traditional accommodations in the medina.

If you’re planning to work remotely or rely heavily on the internet, always check with your accommodation about their Wi-Fi speed and reliability beforehand.

Coverage in Remote Areas

Don’t expect strong or consistent signal in the desert or deep in the mountains. In places like Merzouga or the Dades Valley, you might have 3G at best—or nothing at all for stretches. Download maps and offline apps in advance if you’ll be on the road. Service in medinas can be spotty as well.

Money, Bargaining & Budgeting Tips

Cash Is King

While credit cards are increasingly accepted in modern hotels and upscale restaurants, most daily transactions—souks, taxis, small eateries, and guesthouses—are cash-only. Always carry enough dirhams for the day, especially when venturing into markets or rural areas. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, but they can be unreliable or empty on weekends or holidays.

Currency & Exchange

The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or withdraw directly from ATMs. Avoid changing large amounts at the airport due to less favorable rates. Some accommodations may also accept euros, but it’s best to pay in dirhams for accurate pricing.

Bargaining Is the Norm

Haggling is expected in souks and informal shops. It’s part of the experience—don’t be shy! Start by offering about half of the initial asking price and work your way up. Stay friendly and smile; negotiations are as much about attitude as they are about price.

Know When Prices Are Fixed

Supermarkets, chain stores, and some artisan cooperatives have fixed prices. If you see price tags or signs that say “prix fixe,” it’s best not to haggle. Likewise, in some government-regulated craft shops, prices are standardized to support local artisans fairly.

Be Aware of Scams

Touristy areas can come with a few hustles—fake guides, inflated taxi fares, or overly aggressive vendors. Trust your instincts, agree on prices upfront (especially for taxis or services), and when in doubt, walk away.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is customary in Morocco. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service isn’t already included. For guides, drivers, porters, and housekeeping, small tips go a long way—keep some coins or small bills on hand.

Budget Ranges

Morocco can be very affordable or quite luxurious, depending on your style of travel:

Budget: $25–50/day (basic guesthouses, street food, public transport)
Mid-range: $50–120/day (nice riads, mix of local and tourist restaurants, guided tours)
Luxury: $150+/day (high-end riads, private drivers, spa treatments, fine dining)

Transport & Getting Around Morocco

Trains: Comfortable and Affordable

Morocco’s train system, operated by ONCF, connects major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, and Tangier. Trains are comfortable, affordable, and reliable, with first- and second-class options. For long routes, especially between Tangier and Casablanca or Fez, consider booking first class for more space and a reserved seat.

Buses: The Best Way to Reach Smaller Towns

For destinations not connected by train (like Chefchaouen or Essaouira), buses are the next best option. Companies like CTM and Supratours are generally punctual and comfortable, with air conditioning and assigned seating. Book in advance during busy travel periods.

Shared Taxis (Grand Taxis): For Regional Travel

Grand taxis are shared vehicles (often old Mercedes or Dacias) that run between towns or villages. They only depart once full—usually six passengers—and offer a more local, cost-effective alternative. You can pay extra to leave earlier or travel privately.

Petit Taxis: For Local City Rides

Within cities, use petit taxis for short trips. Always insist on using the meter, or agree on a price before starting the ride. Prices are very reasonable, but meters may not be used late at night or in smaller cities—so be ready to negotiate.

I always try to ask my hotel what the price should be beforehand (for example, from the train station to the hotel) so I know when I’m getting scammed.

Renting a Car: Good for Remote Adventures

If you plan to explore the Atlas Mountains, desert areas, or go off the beaten path, renting a car offers flexibility. Roads are generally in good condition, but driving in cities can be chaotic. Make sure your accommodation includes parking and always opt for full insurance.

Safety, Health & Hygiene Tips

General Safety

Morocco is generally a safe country to travel in, especially in tourist-friendly cities like Marrakesh, Fez, and Chefchaouen. That said, petty theft can happen—especially in crowded medinas and bus stations. Keep your valuables secure, avoid flashing expensive gear, and be mindful in busy areas.

Scams and Touts

In tourist hotspots, expect touts offering unsolicited “guiding” services or trying to lead you to shops. A firm but polite “No, thank you” usually works. If someone says a road or site is closed and offers to guide you elsewhere, it’s likely a scam—just continue on.

Water and Food

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks from small street vendors. Food hygiene is generally good in restaurants and riads, but be cautious with uncooked street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Staying Healthy

Bring any medications you might need, especially if you’re heading into more remote areas like the desert. Pharmacies are well-stocked in cities and towns, and pharmacists are often knowledgeable.

Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended. I always use Travel Insurance Master to compare companies and policies to find the best coverage for my trip.

Bathroom Tips

Public restrooms can be basic. Always carry tissues and hand sanitizer. In many places, you’ll need to pay a small fee (1–2 MAD) to use the facilities, so keep small change on hand.

Weather & Best Time to Visit Morocco

Seasons at a Glance

Morocco experiences a wide range of climates—from coastal breezes to desert heat and snowy mountains. Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:

Spring (March–May): One of the best times to visit. Pleasant temperatures, green landscapes, and blooming valleys—ideal for both cities and the countryside.
Summer (June–August): Coastal cities like Essaouira and Tangier are great in summer, but inland areas like Marrakesh, Fez, and especially the desert can be extremely hot (often over 40°C / 104°F).
Autumn (September–November): Another fantastic time to visit. Temperatures cool down, and it’s still dry and comfortable for sightseeing and trekking.
Winter (December–February): Expect mild days and chilly nights in most cities. The desert gets very cold at night, and the Atlas Mountains may see snow. It’s quieter and cheaper, but pack warm layers.

High vs. Low Season

High season: Spring and autumn—expect more tourists and slightly higher prices, especially around Easter and school holidays.
Low season: Summer in the south and winter overall tend to be quieter. Great for deals, but be prepared for heat or cold, depending on where you go.

Tips

For desert trips, spring and autumn are the most comfortable.
If you’re planning a beach getaway, summer is perfect on the Atlantic coast.
Always check the weather by region—what’s true for Marrakesh might be completely different in the Rif Mountains or Sahara.

Packing Tips for Morocco

Packing for Morocco depends on the time of year, your itinerary, and how much you want to blend in with local norms. Here are some key suggestions based on personal experience:

Essentials

Lightweight layers: The temperature can swing a lot between day and night, especially in the desert or mountains.
Modest clothing: Out of respect for the culture, especially in rural areas, it’s best to cover shoulders and knees. Long, loose clothing works well and also protects from the sun.
Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll likely be exploring medinas, uneven streets, or hiking trails—think supportive sneakers or lightweight boots.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat or scarf—Morocco gets a lot of sun, even in winter.
Scarf or shawl: Great for sun, dust, and covering up when needed. Women may want one on hand when visiting religious sites.

Nice to Have

Swimsuit: For hotel pools, hammams, or beach days in Essaouira or Agadir.
Small daypack: For day trips or walking tours.
Power adapter: Morocco uses European-style plugs (Type C and E, 220V).
Travel towel: Especially handy if you’re staying in hostels or going to the hammam.

For the Desert

Warm layers: Even in summer, desert nights can get chilly.
Closed shoes and socks: For camel rides and to avoid sand burns.
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer: Camps often have limited facilities.

Read the full packing list >>

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