Essential Tips Before Visiting Morocco: A Guide for First-Time Travelers
"While I didn’t take this trip myself, I had the chance to listen to a close friend describe every step of their Moroccan adventure—so vividly that I felt as if I was right there beside them. Here’s his story, told in his own words."
My First Journey Through Morocco: Tips I Learned Along the Way
1. Respect Local Culture and Dress Modestly
Dressing the Moroccan Way
On my second day in Fes, I walked through the labyrinth-like medina in a loose linen shirt and long skirt. The morning sun painted the narrow alleys gold, and I noticed how locals nodded politely as I passed. Dressing modestly wasn’t just about respect—it made me feel part of the scene, rather than just a visitor passing through.
2. Learn Basic Arabic or French Phrases
Speaking From the Heart
One afternoon in Marrakech, I decided to try out my freshly learned Arabic phrases. “Salam Alaikum,” I greeted the shopkeeper. His eyes lit up instantly, and we spent the next half hour chatting over steaming glasses of mint tea. That small effort opened a door to a friendship I didn’t expect
3. Check Visa Requirements
Visa and Entry: A Smooth Arrival
I was relieved to find that as a European passport holder, I didn’t need a visa for my 3-week stay. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six more months—I met a traveler in Tangier who had to rebook his flight because of this oversight.
4. Use the Local Currency – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Cash is King
In Chefchaouen’s blue streets, I stopped at a stall selling handmade woven bags. I didn’t have small change, so the vendor kindly added a keychain as “balance” instead of coins. Lesson learned: keep small bills handy—it makes transactions smoother and sometimes even sweeter.
5. Prepare to Bargain in Markets
The Joy of Bargaining
One evening in Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square, I found a leather backpack I loved. The seller started at a price that made me laugh, and after 15 minutes of playful back-and-forth (and complimentary tea), we shook hands at half the price. Bargaining here isn’t war—it’s a dance.
6. Use Official Taxis and Agree on Prices
Taxis and Trust
In Casablanca, I hopped into a taxi without agreeing on a fare. Big mistake. The ride cost nearly double what it should have. From that day on, I either took metered taxis or agreed on a price before sitting down.
7. Enjoy the Food – Safely
Eating With the Locals
The best tagine I had wasn’t from a fancy restaurant—it was at a tiny roadside eatery on the way to the Atlas Mountains. The owner’s wife served it straight from the clay pot, and I can still taste the tender lamb and sweet prunes.
8. Be Aware of Friday Schedule Changes
Fridays in Morocco
One Friday in Chefchaouen, the streets went quiet after midday prayers. Instead of rushing, I sat on a rooftop terrace, watching the town slow down under the soft afternoon sun. Morocco teaches you that pauses are part of the journey.
9. Pack for Varied Weather
Packing for Four Seasons
In one day, I wore a sweater in the chilly Atlas morning and a t-shirt in the warm Sahara afternoon. Layers saved me from being either freezing or sweating—sometimes both in the same day.
10. Stay Connected with a Local SIM
Staying Connected
Buying a local SIM card in Marrakech was one of my smartest moves. It let me navigate winding streets, book last-minute riads, and even video call my family to show them the Sahara sunset in real time.
Final Reflection
Traveling through Morocco wasn’t just about the places—it was about the people who welcomed me into their world. From bargaining with a craftsman in Fes to sipping tea under the stars in the desert, every day felt like a page in a story I didn’t want to end.
If you come with an open mind and a little curiosity, Morocco will give you memories worth a lifetime.
Post a Comment