If you’re counting down the days until you depart for Morocco, you’ve likely got a lot on your mind.
What do you need to pack? Do you need a visa? How can you avoid cultural faux pas?
At Wild N Happy, we provide a range of carefully crafted tours in Morocco that explore everything this incredible country has to offer.
Our experiences have given us valuable insights into what you need to know before traveling to Morocco.
Keep scrolling down to read through our tips! And for more information about our Morocco tours, please feel free to get in touch with any questions you may have.
Learn Some Arabic Phrases to Connect with the Locals
Although many Moroccans speak French, Moroccan Arabic (Darija) is the most widely spoken language.
Learning some basic Arabic phrases such as “salaam alaikum” (hello) and “shukran” (thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and making new friends.
Try Your Hand at Haggling, but Respectfully
Haggling is a common practice in Morocco, particularly in the souks (markets).
While it is expected to negotiate prices, it is important to do so respectfully. Bargain with a smile and remember that the vendors are trying to make a living.
And remember, if you don’t like the price, you can always walk away.
Find even more travel inspiration by reading our recommendations for the best places to visit in Morocco.
Play it Safe and Don’t Drink Tap Water
While Morocco has made great strides in improving its water quality, it is still not recommended to drink tap water.
Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive.
Try Morocco’s Incredible Street Food!
Morocco is famous for its delicious cuisine, and the street food is no exception.
Don’t be afraid to try new things like tagine, couscous, and b’stilla. Just be sure to eat at places with high customer turnover. This is a good way to avoid getting sick.
Our 3-Day Discover Marrakech Tour is a fantastic opportunity to dive into the city’s street food scene.
Always Bring Cash to Avoid Being Caught Out
While credit cards are accepted in many places, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Many vendors in the souks do not accept cards, and ATMs can be hard to find outside of major cities.
Dress Modestly to Avoid Causing Offence
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and it is important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture.
For women, this means covering your shoulders and knees. And for men, it means no shorts.
However, you can wear whatever you like in your hotel or riad. It is also a good idea to bring comfortable shoes since you will be doing a lot of walking.
Of course, this tip is all the more useful the longer you stay in the country as you’ll visit more places, such as on our 10-Day Marrakech Trip and South Morocco Tour.
Respect Ramadan if It Coincides with Your Visit
If you are traveling to Morocco during Ramadan, which is the holy month of fasting, it is important to be respectful of those who are observing the holiday.
This means not eating or drinking in public during the day and dressing even more modestly than usual.
Get Lost in the Medinas of Moroccan Cities
The medina, or old city, is the heart of many Moroccan cities. These amazing places are mazes of narrow alleyways and bustling markets.
While it can be overwhelming at first, getting lost in a medina can lead to some of the most memorable experiences of your trip.
Just be sure to bring a map or download an offline map to your phone to avoid getting too lost.
Experience a Hammam, the Perfect Way to Unwind
A hammam, or traditional Moroccan bath, is a must-do experience.
It involves getting scrubbed down by a masseuse with black soap and a kessa glove, followed by a relaxing massage.
It is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
A trip to a hammam can also work wonders on a long tour with multiple active days, such as the 14-Day Morocco Trip — Toubkal and the Wild South.
You (Probably) Won’t Need a Visa to Visit Morocco
Visitors to Morocco don’t need a visa for trips lasting less than 90 days.
But because you need to have your passport stamped on arrival, yours must have at least one blank page.
Always be Open-Minded During Your Trip!
Finally, the most important piece of advice we can give you is to be open-minded.
Morocco is a country of contrasts, and it can be both thrilling and challenging at times.
Embrace the differences and enjoy the journey — they are what make adventures in this special place so unique!
You can find even essential information about traveling to Morocco by reading our Morocco tour FAQs.
Make Unforgettable Memories on Our Morocco Tours!
We hope this advice has given you all the information and inspiration you need ahead of your trip.
If you still need to decide what kind of adventure you want to take, browse our range of tours in Morocco.
Reading our itineraries is the perfect way to learn more about the opportunities that await!
If you have any questions about our Morocco tours, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.