Morocco Travel Tips & Things to Know Before You Go

Planning a trip to Morocco is exciting, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Between the vibrant souks, the endless Sahara dunes, and the maze-like old medinas, it helps to have some Morocco travel tips in hand before you arrive. This article shares useful Morocco travel advice and a simple guide on what to know before visiting Morocco, so your journey goes smooth and you avoid common surprises.

Whether you’re joining a local operator like DyasMoroccoTours for a desert adventure or exploring cities on your own, these tips will help you enjoy Morocco in the most authentic way.

1. Understanding Moroccan Culture

Morocco is a blend of Arab, Berber, and French influences. Respecting local traditions is important. For example:

Greetings: A simple “Salam Alaikum” goes a long way.
Dress code: In cities like Marrakech or Fes, modest clothing is appreciated, especially around mosques or smaller towns.
Hospitality: Don’t be surprised if locals invite you for tea. Accepting a glass of mint tea is part of the culture.

➡️ Travel tip: Always show respect in religious places, and ask before taking photos of people.

2. Money Matters

The local currency is Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
Cash is king in smaller towns and souks. Big cities and hotels accept cards, but desert areas don’t always.
ATMs are widely available, but some charge higher fees.

➡️ Advice: Keep small bills for taxis, tipping, or street food.

3. Getting Around Morocco

Morocco is larger than many first-time visitors expect. Traveling between Marrakech, the Sahara, Fes, and Chefchaouen takes hours of driving.

Trains & Buses: ONCF trains connect major cities, while Supratours buses cover longer routes.
Taxis: Agree on the price before you hop in.
Private tours: Companies like DaysMoroccoTours arrange custom trips with drivers who know the local roads, valleys, and desert tracks.

➡️ What to know before visiting Morocco: A 3-day trip from Marrakech to the Sahara is the absolute minimum if you want to experience real desert dunes.

4. Safety and Common Scams

Morocco is generally safe for tourists, but be mindful of petty scams:

Fake guides offering tours in medinas.
Shops where prices are inflated for tourists.
Taxi drivers refusing the meter.

➡️ Tip: If you’re not interested in shopping, politely say so. With trusted operators like DaysMoroccoTours, you’ll be taken to artisan cooperatives with fair prices instead of tourist traps.

5. Food & Water

Moroccan cuisine is one of the highlights of your trip. From tajines to couscous, harira soup, and street-side brochettes, the flavors are endless.

Street food is safe in busy areas, but avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting too long.
Bottled water is always the safe choice.
Don’t leave without trying Moroccan mint tea, a symbol of hospitality.

6. Packing Essentials

Light clothing for the day, but a warm layer for desert nights.
A scarf or shawl to cover shoulders in mosques or to protect against desert winds.
Comfortable shoes for medina walks and mountain valleys.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

➡️ Small detail: in the desert, sand gets everywhere — zip-lock bags are handy for electronics.

7. Internet & SIM Cards

Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés, but not always reliable. Buying a local SIM card from Maroc Telecom, Inwi, or Orange is affordable and gives you better coverage, especially when traveling through valleys or the Sahara.

8. When to Visit Morocco

The best months are March–May and September–November, when the weather is pleasant. Summer can be extremely hot in the Sahara, while winters get cold in the Atlas Mountains.

➡️ If you’re planning desert trips, spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons.

9. Responsible Travel

Morocco’s beauty lies in its culture and nature. Support local communities by:

Booking with small local agencies like DaysMoroccoTours.
Buying directly from artisans instead of resellers.
Reducing plastic waste — bring your own bottle.

10. Final Morocco Travel Advice

Traveling in Morocco is a journey full of contrasts — bustling souks, peaceful desert nights, mountain villages, and colorful blue towns. The best tip? Stay open, flexible, and respectful.

With these Morocco travel tips and simple notes on what to know before visiting Morocco, you’ll be well prepared to enjoy everything the country has to offer. And if you’d rather skip the stress of planning, trusted companies like DaysMoroccoTours make sure your trip is safe, authentic, and unforgettable.

FAQs – Morocco Travel Tips

Q: Is Morocco safe for solo travelers? 
Yes, especially in main tourist areas. Just use the same street smarts you would anywhere else.

Q: Do I need to tip in Morocco? 
Yes, tipping is common — small amounts in restaurants, cafés, and for guides or drivers.

Q: Can I drink alcohol in Morocco? 
Alcohol is available in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s not part of daily culture.