Morocco Q&A

Is it safe?

Definitely. Morocco's main industry is tourism and the local authorities do a great job of keeping tourists safe during their visit in Morocco.

Do I need a visa?

Its best to check with your embassy, but most tourists receive a 90 day visa on arrival when entering Morocco.

What are the main languages spoken?

Moroccan Arabic is the most common language spoken, but French is the second most common language around the country. Berber dialects are most commonly spoken by Moroccan Berbers (native Moroccans) and due to the proximity to Spain, Spanish is also commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Any vaccinations needed?

No vaccinations are required for entering Morocco.

What is the currency? ATM Machine?

The local currency is Moroccan Dirhams and your foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport or any change bureau once in the city. Additionally, ATM machines are frequently found in cities and large villages and do not charge fees for withdrawals.

Is the water safe to drink?

Bottled water is easy to find and very cheap (around $1 for 5 liters). Bottled water is recommended.

Can I travel alone as a woman?

Yes. Moroccan laws strongly protect foreign tourists in Morocco and crimes against foreigners are extremely rare and severely punished by law. Travel is safe and relatively easy, especially when you're with a guide. For any questions about traveling in Morocco as a woman - ask Jade, an American citizen living in Morocco for 3 years.

Will I have good access to wifi on my trip?

Maybe! Most of the guesthouses and riads that we work with offer wifi in-house.

What is a souk?

The souk is the Moroccan market. Just as there are a variety of markets, there are a variety of souks. You can find souks with merchants selling fruits and vegetables, spices, second hand items, and then there are the more textile-oriented souks that carry a variety of handmade items including carpets, clothing, jewelry, shoes, and home goods.

How does the haggling system work when shopping?

In Morocco, the price is all about discussion. Shops typically do not have fixed prices (although the more boutique-y shops do) and the typical system for shopping is negotiation. Typically the merchant will start at his highest asking price and the buyer will start to negotiate by bidding lower. The system is friendly and fun and should end with the buyer finding a price they are happy with, as well as the merchant.

What's the meaning of Berber?

Berbers are the indigenous people of North Africa and make up a large population of Morocco. Berbers refer to themselves as some variant of the word "A-mazigh" or "free people" and speak a variety of many different dialects of the language. The most common religion practiced by Berbers in North Africa is Islam, which is also official religion of Morocco in general.

How should I dress?

Western fashion is commonly seen in Morocco but its also common to see women dressed more conservatively and often wearing a hijab (scarf covering the hair). We recommend airing on the conservative side as a respect to the local culture. Try to keep the legs, shoulders and chest covered. In regards to temperature, loose-fitting cotton clothing in the warmer months is recommended and a coat/jacket is a great idea to have in the cooler months.

What is the food like?

Moroccan food is super yummy and often made with local spices, vegetables and meat. Tagine, the most common Moroccan dish, is a slow-cooked meat/vegetable combination cooked in a clay dish over a fire. You'll also find a variety of vegetarian salads, meat bbq, fish and calamari, and the most important part of the food - Moroccan bread. Since all meals are typically eaten with bread, you can leave your fork on the table and dig in with your hands and a freshly baked piece of homemade bread. Moroccan food is not typically spicy.

Can I drink alcohol?

Of course! Nightlife is a big part of Moroccan society and you can find some of the best nightclubs in Marrakech and Casablanca. Alcohol can be purchased in liquor shops and some supermarkets in cities and is also available in many modern restaurants.

What is the standard for tipping?

While it is not considered necessary to tip taxi drivers in the cities, Morocco is very much a tipping culture. A standard tip at a restaurant is between 5-10% of the final bill, for example. If you are traveling with guides and drivers, a standard tip would be around 100 MAD per day, per guide/driver, per 1-5 people. Keep in mind - most locals working in the service and hospitality industries in Morocco do not earn high monthly salaries and rely on tips to supplement their income! If you do not feel comfortable tipping your guides and drivers directly, we are always more than happy to advise and hand the money over to them directly.