Morocco Travel Guide: Everything a First-Timer Needs

The currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD), a closed currency you generally get on arrival from ATMs or exchange. Carry some cash for markets, tips and small cafés; cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. Tipping is customary and appreciated for good service.

Morocco is worldly but traditional. Modest dress, shoulders and knees covered, is appreciated, especially in medinas and religious sites. Ask before photographing people. Friday is the main prayer day. A few words of French or Arabic, and a smile, open doors everywhere.

Cities are best explored on foot in the medinas (cars can’t enter) with petit taxis or private drivers for longer hops. Between cities, Morocco has comfortable trains (including a high-speed line linking Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca) and good roads. For desert and mountain routes, a private driver-guide is the flexible, comfortable choice.

Comfortable walking shoes for uneven medina lanes, modest and breathable clothing, layers for cool evenings and cold desert nights, sun protection, and a scarf (useful for sun, dust and visiting religious sites). Leave room for what you’ll inevitably buy in the souks.

For the sprawling medinas of Fès and Marrakech, a licensed guide transforms the experience and keeps hustle at bay. For the wider trip, travelling with a specialist who arranges your riads, drivers and access means you see more, wait less, and travel with complete peace of mind.