Morocco is a sensory masterpiece, but for first-time visitors from the US and Canada, it can feel like stepping into a different century. To help you navigate the magic with confidence, I’ve pulled together the essential Morocco travel tips that every savvy traveler should have in their back pocket.
From the etiquette of the souks to the rhythm of the desert, here is how to arrive prepared for your Morocco vacation.
The ancient medinas are the heart of the country, but they are also labyrinthine. It is common to get turned away in the winding alleys, so having a downloaded offline map is vital.
While locals are incredibly hospitable, remember that the medina is a living neighborhood. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their shops. A simple "S'il vous plaît?" and a smile go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
While the "Red City" and coastal hubs are modernizing, Morocco remains a cash-heavy society. You will need the Moroccan Dirham (MAD) for small purchases in the souks and for tipping.
Tipping, or baksheesh, is a fundamental part of the economy here. We recommend carrying small bills to tip café servers, porters, and drivers. A standard 10% in restaurants is appreciated, but not always mandatory—it’s more about the gesture of appreciation for good service.
Morocco is a moderate Muslim country, and dressing respectfully is key to a smooth experience. In rural areas and the medinas, it is best to keep shoulders and knees covered.
For women, a light scarf is the most versatile item you can pack—it’s perfect for visiting mosques (where allowed) and provides protection from the sun in the Sahara Desert. In modern neighborhoods of Marrakech or Casablanca, the dress code is more relaxed, but "modest-chic" is always the safest and most respectful bet.
To keep your journey on track, we always advise travelers to stick to bottled or filtered water. Even for brushing your teeth, bottled water is the gold standard for avoiding a sensitive stomach.
Don't be afraid of the street food—it’s some of the best in the world! Just look for the stalls with the longest lines of locals; that’s where the food is freshest and most authentic. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the snail soup or the slow-cooked tangia.
* A universal power adapter: Morocco uses Type C and E plugs (the same as Europe).
* Comfortable walking shoes: You will easily log 15,000 steps a day on uneven cobblestones.
* Layers: The desert gets surprisingly cold at night, even in the summer!
1. The Art of the Medina: Respect and Navigation
The ancient medinas are the heart of the country, but they are also labyrinthine. It is common to get turned away in the winding alleys, so having a downloaded offline map is vital.
While locals are incredibly hospitable, remember that the medina is a living neighborhood. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their shops. A simple "S'il vous plaît?" and a smile go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
2. Understanding Currency and Tipping
While the "Red City" and coastal hubs are modernizing, Morocco remains a cash-heavy society. You will need the Moroccan Dirham (MAD) for small purchases in the souks and for tipping.
Tipping, or baksheesh, is a fundamental part of the economy here. We recommend carrying small bills to tip café servers, porters, and drivers. A standard 10% in restaurants is appreciated, but not always mandatory—it’s more about the gesture of appreciation for good service.
3. Dress Codes and Cultural Etiquette
Morocco is a moderate Muslim country, and dressing respectfully is key to a smooth experience. In rural areas and the medinas, it is best to keep shoulders and knees covered.
For women, a light scarf is the most versatile item you can pack—it’s perfect for visiting mosques (where allowed) and provides protection from the sun in the Sahara Desert. In modern neighborhoods of Marrakech or Casablanca, the dress code is more relaxed, but "modest-chic" is always the safest and most respectful bet.
4. Water and Wellness: Staying Healthy
To keep your journey on track, we always advise travelers to stick to bottled or filtered water. Even for brushing your teeth, bottled water is the gold standard for avoiding a sensitive stomach.
Don't be afraid of the street food—it’s some of the best in the world! Just look for the stalls with the longest lines of locals; that’s where the food is freshest and most authentic. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the snail soup or the slow-cooked tangia.
5. Essential Packing List
* A universal power adapter: Morocco uses Type C and E plugs (the same as Europe).
* Comfortable walking shoes: You will easily log 15,000 steps a day on uneven cobblestones.
* Layers: The desert gets surprisingly cold at night, even in the summer!