18 things to know before traveling to Morocco

15.10.2023 - 21:13 / lonelyplanet.com

I am originally from the UK and have been living in Morocco since 2018. There are things I wish I'd known before jumping headfirst into the seemingly lawless world of Moroccan taxis and bargaining in the souqs.

Morocco reveals the full spectrum of real life: the good, the bad, the ugly and the oh-so beautiful. For some visitors, Morocco can be a huge culture shock, but with some awareness and understanding, it is possible to appreciate these differences, connect more deeply and see the country through a different lens without trying to change it.

Research the places in Morocco you’d like to visit, but leave wiggle room for changes along the way and enjoy the spontaneity that Morocco allows. While it’s possible to prebook tours and activities, it’s usually just as easy to reserve when you arrive in the country.

Driving in cities such as Casablanca and Marrakesh is best left to the locals. Getting around Morocco is easy, even without a car. An excellent train network links many cities, including Africa’s first high-speed train, Al Boraq, between Casablanca and Tangier. A comfortable and reliable bus network connects towns big and small. Book train and bus tickets a day or two in advance to ensure the travel time you'd like.

To get the most out of your trip to Morocco, use a guide who has in-depth expertise and speaks your language. In cities, check with the local tourism office or your accommodations for recommendations for licensed guides in the area. If you’re surfing, check ISA’s directory of certified instructors.

Hiking guides are mandatory for climbing Mt Toubkal in the High Atlas. Check with Bureau des Guides.

In Morocco, you drive on the right side of the road, and seatbelts are mandatory, even though some taxis don't have them. Car horns are used often, not in an aggressive way but as a means of communication. 

Watch out for people, bicycles, motorcycles and animals coming from all sides. Avoid driving at night because some vehicles do not have or use their lights. Take notice of the speed limits and the roundabouts that have stoplight systems. If you’re stopped for speeding – police speed checks are common – or other penalties, having cash on you to pay fines (usually between Dh150 and Dh300) is preferable to going to a local police station.

Haggling is a game and part of the shopping experience in Morocco. Try not to get frustrated – the ideal scenario is that both sides come away feeling like they got a fair price. 

For big purchases, do your research, have a price in mind or shop around until you do. Sometimes vendors say to pay what you feel like, so if you don't have a price, ask some questions: how many hours did it take to make? Where did the materials come from and atwhat price?

The souqs are