Morocco Things to Know

– Weather:
The late Spring months (April/May) and early Fall months (September/October) are great times to visit Morocco as temperatures are warm and comfortable.
July/August are wonderful months to visit the coastal cities along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Temperatures rise significantly closer to the desert.
November till March the temperatures are cooler but still very comfortable.

– Currency:
The local currency is the dirham (DE-rahm). Most shops take credit cards, but smaller vendors and taxi cabs take only dirham. There are ATM’s everywhere for exchanges. Make sure your credit cards are active. It’s a good idea to alert your bank(s) or credit card companies about where you’ll be travelling to ensure your foreign transactions are not flagged for suspicious activity.

– Haggling is accepted and welcome at markets.

– Tipping:
Have some change ready for tips. 1 DH for local places, 3-5 DH for fancy places. Tour guides rely on tips and you can use your discretion.

– Fridays are holiday’s.
Ramadan is different dates each year. No alcohol is served during Ramadan but can be purchased for personal use from liquor stores.

– Water:
Drink bottled water only to be on the safe side. And stay away from ice in drinks.

– Bring Imodium and consider taking it before your first meal and if needed throughout your tour.

– Translation: We provide an English and French speaking guide but you might want to download a translating app to your phone like google translate or similar.

– WhatsApp can be downloaded to your phone for free long-distance calling.

– Basic words to know:

  • Hello (Peace be with you): Salam Alikome (salaam a eleikum)
  • Thank you: Choukran (shokran)
  • No Thank You: La Choukran. This is useful if you have street vendors hassling you to buy.
  • Watch Out: Balak. Although you might not use this yourself, you’ll most like hear this in the medina’s or souks (outdoor markets). Locals will say balak if coming with a mule, motorcycle, or cart to warn you to get aside or get fun over.

– Electrical convertors:
Morocco uses the same plugs as Europe. You can use the same adaptor you would in Europe. 220V and adapter C or E.

– Ask before taking photos.
They may charge you, so you can settle on a price before taking one.