Morocco is a country that, if it isn't high on everyone's bucket list then it should be. Morocco is a remarkable country in North Africa that is laden with history and things to see and discover. Morocco includes such attractions as Casablanca, Fars, Marrakech, and more.
In Morocco, one can discover some of the best of the Mediterranean as well as the Sahara Desert. Staying with the traditional Bedouin and riding camels in the desert are some of the favorite pastimes here. One of the perks about visiting Morocco is that it is also one of the epic countries in the world that is also the most budget-friendly.
Is Morocco Safe?
Yes, Morocco is generally safe and the people are very welcoming and inviting. Moroccans will make one feel at home and comfortable. Also, only people with an official tour license are permitted to solicit their tour services in Morocco. Perhaps the most common issue in Morocco is theft. Be aware of pickpockets!
- Pickpockets: Beware of Pickpockets
- Streetwise: Never Hold One's Phone Towards The Street
Be very careful with using one's phone out on the street. One of the favorite ways for people to steal phones here is with a passenger on a motorbike. They ride up from behind, snatch it from one's hand, and ride away. Never hold one's phone toward the street.
Is Marrakesh Worth Seeing?
Yes! Absolutely. Marrakesh is an ancient oasis trading city on the verge of the massive Sahara and at the foot of the towering Atlas Mountains. It would be an unmitigated shame if one visits Morocco but fails to visit Marrakesh.
- Marrakesh: Ancient Oasis Trading City In Morrocco and One of The Countries Best Jewels
Winston Churchill was many things - including a painter. In the dark days of World War Two, he met with Franklin D. Roosevelt in Casablanca. After the conference, he insisted that Roosevelt couldn't come so far and not visit Marrakesh.
Roosevelt agreed and they both drove here and enjoyed a rare day of relaxation together. After Roosevelt left, Churchill painted his only painting of the war in Marrakesh.
- Fun Fact: Marrakesh Was One of Winston Churchill's Favorite Places In The World
What Tours Should I Take?
There are many excellent tours offered all around Morrocco. But some tours that everyone should really consider taking include camping in the desert with the Beduioun, camel rides in the desert, tours of the Altas Mountains, and tours to the UNESCO-listed Ouarzazate. Many of the best of these tours leave from Marrakesh but others are offered elsewhere in the country as well.
Browse the listings on Viator to get an idea of the tours that operate out of Marrakesh.
Is Morocco Special for Shopping?
Absolutely. Again Marrakesh is the most colorful of Morocco's cities for traditional shopping - just like it has been for hundreds of years. For many tourists, shopping is a central part of their trip and there are so many exotic products to browse and choose from in Morocco. Traditional Arabic markets are called "souks".
- Souks: Traditional Arabic Shops Typically Specializing in One Thing
One can browse in souks specializing in leather, carpets, metalwork, pottery, traditional Muslim attire, traditional lanterns, nuts and dried fruits, jewelry, and so much more. There are a bewildering array of spices, teas, nuts, and other such exotic products.
- Haggling: An Important Part Of Shopping In Morrocco - It is Vital if One Doesn't Want to Pay Absurd Tourist Prices
An important part of shopping in these traditional souks is haggling. Do not be offended if the salesman quotes a very high tourist price. This is the game in Morocco and one can get to try out one's haggling skills. Haggling is all part of the experience of visiting Morocco.
Other FAQs About Visiting Morocco
- As a Woman Do I Need To Wear A Headcovering?: No, Tourists Can mostly Wear What They Like, but It is Advisable to Dress Modestly So As Not To Offend the Locals
- What Language Do They Speak?: Moroccans Speak A Form of Arabic, as well as French. In Touristic Areas, English Is Also Well Understood
- Can I Exchange Money There?: One Can Always Exchange Dollars And Euros Everywhere in the Country
- How Long Should I Go For?: Go For At Least Two Weeks, If One Only Has Limited Time, then Prioritize Marrakesh
- Is Alcohol Forbidden?: No, Alcohol is Permitted, While Many Moroccans Will Frown on Other Moroccans For Drinking, There Is No Issue for Tourists
- Is It Hot?: Much of Morocco is Desert so It can Be Very Hot, Avoid Summer to Avoid The Worst of the Heat