Tips and tricks to make the most unforgettable trip
- We always recommend traveling light and practical, avoiding bulky suitcases that attract attention. In large cities, 90% of people will want to sell a product or a service; the less your clothing reminds them of a tourist, the easier it will be to move within the medinas (old city centers).
- Get ready to negotiate. Moroccans love to bargain prices and will invite you inside the store to have tea and decide together on the price of goods. Do not be afraid and jump in; in any case, it will always be in their favor, as they are really phenomenal!
- Do not accept people who offer to guide you to your guest house or the center. They will be very insistent, but be clear from the start and refuse to pay for unsolicited services.
- Beware of food and drink. The body is not used to the bacterial load present in the water in Morocco. Drink only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth; ensure that meat, vegetables, and fish are well cooked, and peel the fruit. Don’t be fooled by the ice in juices and smoothies sold at every corner.
- In some rural areas, it may be recommended for women to cover their heads with a scarf. There are no risks, but the focus may be on you. You may also find yourself in some places with only male clientele; do not be afraid, as there are places where only men are allowed, but tourists are always welcome.
- For accommodations, we recommend guest houses that you can easily find on booking platforms and Airbnb. The simpler the accommodation, the more you will avoid the typical attractions and shows for standard tourists.
- It is very convenient to get a SIM card directly at the airport to avoid communication problems or expensive promotions.
- Avoid camel rides. During our trip, we spent three hours on a camel and discovered why the Berbers in the desert walk while the camels carry only merchandise. It was a very unpleasant experience.
- Do not argue or go against the principles of the local people. There may be situations that you do not like, such as the treatment of animals, but respect their culture to avoid complicated situations.
- Avoid walking at night, as you are still tourists and there is a risk of robbery. Take all necessary precautions to avoid it.
A 15-day road tour would be perfect for enjoying the diversity of the country. There are a few stops that you should definitely add to your trip. In addition to the classic cities, the Rose Valley, the Monkey Fingers mountains, and the Todra Gorge are a must. The roads are in perfect condition with little traffic, although driving becomes a bit more complicated near cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, or Rabat.
You will notice that these areas are rich in domestic tourism, but it may be difficult to meet other foreigners. We loved this total immersion in the culture.
Basic knowledge of French might help, but it is not an essential requirement. Even in difficult situations, you can understand with gestures.
We have not personally experienced it, but this trip is also feasible using means of transportation such as trains and buses.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism is important to us. We try to learn from each experience to become better people, for ourselves, for others, and for the planet. Respect the environment and, if you have the opportunity, collect waste in uncontaminated areas. There are serious waste management problems, especially in cities like Marrakech, so avoid being part of the problem and be part of the solution.
We are biased because we believe that travel is not just about the place, but also about the people, traditions, food, and culture. The best way to experience it is among the locals. Opt for guest houses instead of resorts, choose local guides instead of big companies. As inviting as excursions and experiences created specifically for tourists may seem, they don’t truly reflect the local population. Check with your hosts to get involved in real-life daily activities, such as cooking a dish together, taking a bath in a spring, or hiking in the mountains. These experiences will be more authentic than what is created solely for tourist entertainment. Take in the beauty and the rawness of this land, as it will leave you with strong sensations that you will never forget.
