Morocco Travel Guide
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Why Visit Morocco?
Are you looking for a unique travel destination that is full of culture, history and adventure? If so, consider taking a trip to Morocco. Located in North Africa, Morocco is home to beautiful landscapes, an array of exotic cuisine, centuries-old architecture, and a fascinating culture. If you are searching for the perfect vacation spot this year, then this Morocco travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about why you should visit Morocco
If still not sure, here’s a few more reasons to take your vacation in Morocco.
Rich culture and history: Morocco has a rich cultural heritage and history, with ancient cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Meknes.
Stunning Architecture: Morocco is known for its unique and intricate architecture, including the famous blue-painted buildings in Chefchaouen and the traditional riads found in cities like Marrakech.
Delicious Cuisine: Moroccan cuisine is a fusion of Berber, Arabic, Andalusian, and Mediterranean flavors. Some of the most popular dishes include tagine, couscous, and pastilla.
Beautiful Landscapes: Morocco offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert to the beaches of Essaouira.
Bargain Shopping: Morocco is famous for its markets and souks, where you can find handmade textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and other crafts at affordable prices.
Spa and Wellness: Morocco is home to many traditional hammams, where you can enjoy a relaxing soak and get a traditional massage.
Friendly People: Moroccans are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it a welcoming destination for travelers.
Convenient Location: Morocco is easily accessible from Europe, making it a convenient and budget-friendly holiday option.
Frequently Asked Questions When Travelling To Morocco
What Is A Good Budget For A Trip To Morocco?
A budget of around 50-70 USD per day should cover your basic expenses for a budget-friendly trip, including accommodation, food, transportation, and some activities. This budget can be adjusted higher or lower depending on your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you want to stay in luxurious accommodations, go on guided tours, or take part in more expensive activities, you should plan for a higher budget.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Morocco varies greatly depending on the type of accommodation and the location. Here are some approximate prices for different types of accommodation in Morocco:
- Hostels: Prices for a dorm room in a hostel can range from 10 to 20 USD per night, while a private room can cost between 25 to 40 USD per night.
- Budget Hotels: A basic double room in a budget hotel can cost between 30 to 50 USD per night.
- Riads: A traditional Moroccan riad, typically found in cities like Marrakech, can cost between 50 to 100 USD per night for a double room.
- Luxury Hotels: For a more upscale experience, you can expect to pay anywhere from 100 to 500 USD per night for a luxury hotel room in Morocco.
- Camping: Campsites can cost anywhere from 5 to 20 USD per night, depending on the location and facilities.
- Homestays: Staying with a local family in a homestay can cost around 30 to 50 USD per night.
Food and drink: The cost of eating out in Morocco can vary depending on the type of restaurant and the location. Street food such as kebabs, sandwiches, and crepes can cost anywhere from 2 to 5 USD. A meal in a casual restaurant or cafe can cost between 10 to 20 USD, including a main dish, drink, and perhaps a dessert.
Fine dining restaurants in Morocco can cost anywhere from 25 to 50 USD or more per person, depending on the type of cuisine and the location. Having a traditional Moroccan tagine, typically made with meat, vegetables, and spices, can cost between 10 to 15 USD. And snacks such as pastries or fresh juices can cost 2 to 4 USD, while a cup of coffee can cost 2 to 3 USD.
Transportation: The cost of public transportation in Morocco varies depending on the type of transportation and the distance traveled. Here are some approximate prices for different types of public transportation in Morocco:
Prices for local buses can vary depending on the distance, but a one-way ticket can cost anywhere from 1 to 3 USD.
Taxis in Morocco can be either metered or unmetered. Metered taxis are generally more expensive, with prices starting at around 2 to 3 USD. Unmetered taxis, often called petit taxis, are usually less expensive, with prices starting at around 1 to 2 USD for short trips.
Train tickets in Morocco are relatively cheap, with prices ranging from 5 to 15 USD depending on the distance traveled and the type of train.
Prices for domestic flights in Morocco can vary depending on the airline and the time of year, but a one-way ticket can cost anywhere from 30 to 100 USD.
Rental cars in Morocco can cost anywhere from 30 to 100 USD per day, depending on the type of car and the rental company.
Activities and Excursions: Traveling to Morocco is an exciting and memorable experience, with a plethora of activities and excursions available. Depending on the type of activity or excursion desired, the cost can vary greatly. If you're looking for a more basic sightseeing tour, it may only cost around $50 per person.
If you want something more luxury or extreme, such as hot air balloon rides over the Atlas Mountains or camel rides in the Sahara Desert, you'll be looking at upwards of $150-300 per person for those kinds of experiences.
Even if your goal is just to soak up some cultural activities like visiting local villages, art galleries and markets, these options tend to fall in between the two aforementioned categories ranging from $80-120 per person.
How Many Days In Morocco Is Enough?
Generally, 7-10 days is a good amount of time to see the main attractions in Morocco, including cities such as Marrakesh, Fez, and Casablanca, as well as natural landmarks such as the Atlas Mountains and the desert. However, if you have more time, you could spend longer exploring smaller towns, trekking in the mountains, or taking part in more leisurely activities.
What Is The Best Way To Tour Morocco?
One of the best ways to travel through Morocco is to take in all that the country has to offer with a self-drive tour. This way allows you to be in control of your itinerary and choose where you want to go at your own pace.
Most tourists opt for car hire as it’s convenient, cost-effective and gives you plenty of flexibility on your journey. You can take in all the sights along the way including beautiful mountain roads, desert oases, ancient cities and charming villages without having to rely on public transport or another person’s schedule.
Plus, it gives you greater opportunities for wildlife spotting or taking spontaneous trips out into nature.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Morocco?
The best time to visit Morocco varies depending on the region and what you want to do there. Here are some general guidelines:
Spring (March to May) is a good time to visit as the weather is mild and there is less tourist crowd.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season, but it's also the best time to visit the beaches and the desert.
Fall (September to November) the weather is still warm and it's a good time to visit the cities, especially for shopping at the markets.
Winter (December to February) is the low season and can be chilly in some regions, but it's a good time to visit if you're looking for fewer crowds and cheaper prices.
What Are The Dos And Don’ts In Morocco?
When visiting Morocco, it's important to be mindful of the local customs and traditions. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
Dos:
- Dress modestly: When visiting mosques, shrines, and other religious sites, it's important to cover your arms and legs.
- Respect local customs: Morocco is a conservative country, so it's important to be mindful of your behavior and avoid public displays of affection.
- Bargain at markets: Bargaining is expected at markets, but it's important to do so in a friendly and respectful manner.
- Try the local cuisine: Moroccan cuisine is diverse and delicious, so don't miss the opportunity to try some of the country's traditional dishes.
Don'ts:
- Don't take photos of people without permission: Always ask before taking photos of individuals, especially women.
- Don't touch or point with your feet: Feet are considered impure in Morocco, so avoid pointing or touching anything with your feet.
- Don't use your left hand: The left hand is considered unclean in Morocco, so avoid using it to eat, shake hands, or hand over objects.
- Don't criticize the king or religion: Morocco is a monarchy, and criticism of the king or religion is considered disrespectful and could result in serious consequences.
By following these simple dos and don'ts, you can ensure that you have a respectful and enjoyable visit to Morocco.
What Are The Visa Requirements For Morocco?
The visa requirements for Morocco depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Here is a general overview:
Citizens of most countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, are eligible for a visa-free stay in Morocco for up to 90 days.
Citizens of some countries, including India and China, are required to obtain a visa in advance, regardless of the length of their stay.
For stays longer than 90 days, a long-term visa may be required, which can be obtained from the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your home country.
It's important to check the specific visa requirements for your country and plan accordingly before traveling to Morocco. You can find up-to-date information on the website of the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Moroccan embassy or consulate.
Do I need Travel Insurance To Visit Morocco?
Travel insurance is not required by the Moroccan government to enter the country, but it is highly recommended for all travelers. Travel insurance can provide coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and other travel-related issues.
How To Stay Safe In Morocco?
Morocco is generally considered safe for tourists, but as with any foreign destination, it's important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
Be aware of your belongings: Pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas, so it's important to keep a close eye on your valuables and not carry large amounts of cash.
Avoid walking alone at night: Some areas in larger cities can be dangerous after dark, so it's best to take taxis or travel with a companion.
Be cautious in crowded places: Crowded markets and tourist areas can be magnets for thieves, so it's important to stay alert and keep your valuables close.
Respect local customs and traditions: Morocco is a conservative country, so it's important to be mindful of your behavior and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
By following these simple safety tips and being aware of your surroundings, you can help ensure a safe and fun trip to Morocco. Keep in mind that crime rates can vary between regions and cities, so it's a good idea to research your specific destination and take extra precautions if necessary.
Where To Stay In Morocco?
The Best Booking Resources For Morocco
These are the companies I use predominantly when I travel to Morocco. They offer great customer service and the best value, consistently outperform their competitors, as they always have excellent deals. I rely on them the most, and they are the starting point in my search for travel deals.
Booking.com - This is the best travel partner when it comes to planning your vacation in Morocco. With over 28 million listings in more than 200 countries and territories, you'll have no problem choosing from the world's most comprehensive selection of accommodations - from exotic villas to cozy apartments! Booking.com offers a secure and convenient way to book your next holiday, with unbeatable deals that will make sure you get the best value for your money when travelling to Morocco.
Skyscanner - This is the perfect tool for finding the best flights at the best prices to Morocco. With a comprehensive selection of airlines to choose from, you can compare prices and routes in seconds - saving you time, stress and money. Skyscanner's intuitive search engine makes it easy to find great deals on domestic and international flights. Plus, you can easily customize your search preferences so you get results that fit your budget and destination needs.
Get Your Guide - Are you looking for ways to make your travel experiences more memorable? With GetYourGuide, you can book amazing activities, tours and attractions all over Morocco. Whether it’s a tour of an iconic city landmark or unique experience that’s off the beaten path, GetYourGuide offers something spectacular for any traveler. With thousands of things to do and see in different cities around Morocco, this platform simplifies the search process with user-friendly filters.
More Morocco Travel Resources