Well, haven't you found another country to go to? Everyone who goes there gets poisoned, they get robbed, it's dirty everywhere. Maybe you should reconsider?
These are some of the things we heard when we announced to friends and acquaintances our decision to visit Morocco. The truth is that when some people haven't traveled enough and just read articles and watch videos on the internet, they are very likely to have such opinions. However, the truth is very different. And because Morocco is a beautiful destination, which you will miss if you don't visit, in this article we have gathered everything you need to know before organizing your first trip there.
When to go?
As this is a North African country, it is easy to see that the temperatures in the summer are quite high, almost prohibitive. The best period is spring and autumn, but even in winter in the cities the temperatures are quite mild and only in the desert or the Atlas Mountains will you encounter quite cold.
Is it a safe country?
Morocco has seen a rapid increase in tourism in recent years, and the authorities are doing everything they can to ensure that the country is considered a safe destination. The main tourist centers, such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez and Rabat, are generally safe for visitors. In remote areas, especially in the Atlas Mountains or in the desert, it is best to travel with organized groups. In crowded places, pay attention to your personal belongings (this applies to all countries), avoid showing off expensive items and do not visit deserted areas at night. We did not encounter any problems at all and we would say that the locals are particularly friendly and familiar with tourists.
Travel documents – vaccinations
To enter the country, you will not need anything other than your passport, which should not expire within the next six months. Vaccinations for adults are not required, while children should have had the basic ones. In any case, you will need a travel document. safety just in case, while it would be a good idea to have planned for your travel expenses pharmacy, but also for that of child yours.
Hygiene
Many people who visit the country experience stomach or intestinal problems and think they have food poisoning, which is not the case most of the time. The tap water in Morocco contains different bacteria than those that European stomachs are used to. For this reason, avoid tap water, drinks or juices with ice cubes, and salads that have been washed with tap water. Always wash your hands thoroughly, get antiseptic hand wipes, and you will not have any problems.
Currency and cards
On all our trips we use the Revolut which operates in most countries in the world and provides the best exchange rate. However, in Morocco, cards are not accepted everywhere and you will need to have cash with you for daily use in taxis, souks, some museums, etc. Exchange some currency at the airport for your first expenses and for the rest you will find banks or exchange offices in the cities.
Where to stay?
In Marrakech you will find plenty accommodations and prices vary depending on the area. In the new part of the city and especially in the modern districts of Gueliz and his Wintering, you will be close to the center and in a safe area. The next option is to stay in a Riad in the old city (Medina). Riads are traditional Moroccan houses, characterized by an internal courtyard or garden, often with a fountain and plants, while their outer walls are simple to protect privacy. In the past, they were residences of the wealthy, but today many have been converted into luxury boutique hotels or restaurants, offering tranquility and an authentic Moroccan aesthetic.
Staying in them is something that is a special experience, but you should also be aware of the disadvantages it has. There is no access to cars in the old city. So you will have to carry your suitcases to get to your accommodation and you will not easily find a means of transportation when you want to move outside the Medina. The water supply network in the old city is hundreds of years old and presents frequent breakdowns, which means that in many Riads there will not be water in the shower at all times. These buildings are renovated, but due to their age they have problems with humidity, heat and sound insulation and… bugs! So if you want to stay in one of them, see their reviews in detail.
If you want to visit them without staying there, you can do so by trying their cuisine, having brunch, dinner, or simply going for tea.
Travel
The sights of Marrakech are mainly located in the old city, which is not accessible by cars, so wear comfortable shoes, because you will be walking a lot. For your trips outside the center, there are buses, but we used taxis. We put the route in the app Roby, we would see the fare and either call from there or stop at the first available one and negotiate the price.
If you travel by train outside of Marrakech, know that their modern trains are called Al Boraq and are quite affordable. However, choose to travel first class, which is more comfortable.
From Marrakech airport to the city, you can take the bus. However, if you want to take a taxi, then at the exit of the airport you will find the Kechcab kiosk and there you will pay to get a ticket for the taxi that will take you to your destination.
What to look out for in the Medina and the market
The Medina (old town) is a maze of narrow streets, souks, riads, mosques, palaces and squares that combine traditional Arab-Muslim architecture with the vibrant culture of Morocco. You will wander a lot in their endless alleys, you will get lost but that is also part of the experience. From what we found, google maps works quite well, so get a local sim to have data everywhere. If you have esim on your mobile, try this.
In the Medina, you will find many people (even small children) who will offer to help you get to your destination, for a fee of course. Also, the vendors can be particularly pushy to show you their wares. You can thank them politely or answer that you will come by later and they will let you go. If you still want to shop, haggle!
Dress – Behavior
We really saw all kinds of clothing on our trip there. However, our opinion is that in every country you visit, you should respect its rules and customs. For this reason, it is advisable for women not to pack particularly revealing clothes to avoid unwanted looks or teasing.
Alcohol is not allowed. However, in some hotels you will find plenty of it! Do not offer your hand to shake hands with a woman unless she does so first, and do not take pictures of locals unless you have asked their permission first.
Food
In Morocco, gastronomy is a real experience! Don't miss the opportunity to try the traditional tagine, cooked in a special ceramic pot, or the classic couscous with vegetables and meat, which is the national dish. Enjoy the sweet and savory bastille, a pie filled with chicken, almonds and cinnamon, as well as the nutritious soup hariraIn sweets, the small children with honey and sesame is a must and don't forget to accompany them with a glass of aromatic mint tea!
Closing
If you want to start exploring Africa, Morocco might be the first country to do so! The most touristic country on this continent captivates with its cultural heritage, natural landscapes, infrastructure and authentic hospitality. In our next article We will present you with a detailed tribute to the captivating Marrakech, with instructions for the most impressive sights, the hidden corners of the Medina and the unique flavors you must try. Stay tuned to discover what makes this city a true treasure of Moroccan culture!
