I was so excited to travel to Morocco back in the summer of 2016! This would be my first time traveling to Africa and I was SO thrilled to delve into the wonders of Fez, Marrakech, and Tangiers. Morocco truly has so much to offer. From the Medina, the traditional Hammam spas, stunning architecture, and beautiful weather – there is something for everyone!
Like with every country you travel to, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the customs and/or traditions so you know what to expect when you begin your vacation. Morocco is certainly no exception. But that’s the beauty of traveling right? It’s about experiencing a new culture, new food, maybe even a new language! With that said, I wanted to prepare you with a brief list of important things you need to know before your Moroccan adventure begins!
10 Things to Know Before You Travel to Morocco
1. Carry Cash
Most vendors will not accept debit or credit cards. Some larger stores may accept this however, especially if you’re purchasing items from Souks or small vendors, they will only accept cash. To be honest, I don’t remember ever using my cards during my stay in Morocco!
2. Women are to dress modestly
It’s important to remember that Morocco is a Muslim country therefore, women are expected to cover up! Traditionally, Moroccan woman only expose their face, hands, and feet. My recommendation would be to ensure your legs, chest, and shoulders are covered. This can be a challenge considering it’s SO HOT but, loose, breathable fabrics are the way to go!
3. Fridays are holy days
Friday is typically the day in which locals are expected to be at the mosque for congregational prayer. Most businesses may be closed at this time, especially after midday however, if you’re in a tourist heavy spot, like Marrakech, this may not be the case. You will, however, here the ‘call to prayer’ via surrounding speaker systems so you know what time of day it is.
4. Vaccinations aren’t mandatory
You may think travelling to Africa would require you to be vaccinated but, in this case, that would be considered a personal preference. It is not required, by law, for you to be vaccinated to enter Morocco if you’re travelling from North America. Now, with that said, you do want to equip yourself with some tummy medication. The food preparation and food storage isn’t exactly what us North Americans are used so – avoid any tummy troubles and never be without tummy meds!
5. Alcohol is hard to come by
Muslim country = less booze. Pretty simple right? Purchasing alcohol is quite frowned upon in Morocco actually, and is typically taxed at a higher rate. If you are travelling to Morocco during Ramadan, it will be almost impossible to find alcohol as it will be taken off the shelves of most stores. With that said, if you’re travelling to a tourist heavy spot like Marrakech, alcohol is more common in restaurants or bars.
6. Make hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wet wipes your best friends
If there’s nothing else you take from this list, I hope you take this tip! OMG it’s so important. Most public washrooms in Morocco are squat toilets meaning there is a hole in the ground for you to do your business in. The stalls are also equipped with a small tap and a bucket for you to ‘flush’ your contents away. Most of the time, you will have to pay the washroom attendant for toilet paper therefore, I would suggest bringing your own to avoid this fee! If you do happen to find a public washroom with a toilet, it may not have a seat on it. Not so glamorous right? Hey, sometimes you must embrace your surroundings!
7. Prepare to lose yourself in the Medina
The Medina is a wonderful place. It’s filled with Souks (Moroccan market place) with an endless number of vendors selling everything from clothing, beauty products, shoes, spices, jewelry – I can go on and on forever! Apart from this, there are small pathways leading every which way to these vendors. These can double up as roadways for small carts, livestock (hello Mr. Sheep!) and more! It’s really a sight for all the senses! It can seem very overwhelming, and you may not even recall where the entrance was or how to get to the exit but, my advice to you is to just embrace it! Give yourself enough time to really experience your surroundings and to determine what speaks out to you the most.
8. Never pay the asking price
Stemming from my last point, you will encounter many vendors within the Souk selling similar product where one vendor may charge a completely difference price from another. With that said, if you truly have your heart set on something, don’t be afraid to haggle for the price you want. Vendors always ask for more than what the item is worth anyways so don’t be shy! If they’re not willing to budge, then walk away. When a vendor knows they’re about to lose a sale, that’s typically when they give in!
9. Avoid public displays of affection
Again, being a Muslim country, holding hands, kissing, or anything of the like in public in Morocco is quite frowned upon. Do you your best to be respectful and save it for behind closed doors!
10. Protect your belongings
Unfortunately, like with many other tourist heavy countries or cities, you may find beggers or pick-pocketers to be common in Morocco. These can vary from small children all the way up to adults. To avoid being their next victim, always carry a bag with a full zipper closure and don’t carry any loose money or valuables in your pockets. This is especially important in the Medina. Keep your hand on your bag at all times and be aware of your surroundings.
Is there something important you think I missed on this list? Have you travelled to Morocco before? Let me know in the comments sections below!
