Morocco is welcoming, varied and rewarding, and a few insights make a first visit much easier. These tips focus on the situations most first-time visitors actually encounter.
Money
- Get dirhams on arrival. The currency is closed, so ATMs at the airport or in town are usually the simplest option.
- Carry small notes. Change is not always available for large notes in shops, taxis and markets.
- Expect to tip. Tipping is customary for guides, drivers, porters, restaurant staff and hammam attendants.
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | About 10% of the bill |
| Café | A few dirhams for a drink, around 10 dirhams with food |
| Medina porter with a cart | 20 to 30 dirhams, depending on distance and luggage |
| Hotel porter | 5 to 10 dirhams |
| Guide or driver | 100 to 150 dirhams for a full day |
| Riad or hotel staff | About 100 dirhams per room per day, often in a shared tip box |
Medinas
- Accept that you will get lost. Offline maps help, but medinas are built for walking, not for GPS.
- Decline unsolicited guiding politely. Some people offer directions and then expect payment. A firm, friendly “no, thank you” is enough. If you need help, ask a shopkeeper or your riad.
- Use licensed guides. A guide on your first morning in Fes or Marrakech is excellent value. Riads can usually arrange an official guide.
- Mind the carts and scooters. Step aside when you hear “balak”, which means “watch out”.
Shopping
- Haggling is normal in the souks. Decide what an item is worth to you before asking the price, stay good-humoured and walk away politely if you cannot agree.
- Only start bargaining if you might buy. Agreeing on a price and then walking away is considered bad form.
Culture and etiquette
- Ask before photographing people. Some people will decline or ask for a small payment, so respect their answer.
- Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is a notable exception, with guided visits.
- Dress modestly, especially away from the big city centres and beaches.
- Use your right hand for eating from shared dishes and for passing things.
Everyday rhythm
- Friday is the weekly holy day. Some shops close around midday prayers, and many families share couscous after them.
- Learn a few words. “Salam alaikum” (hello), “shukran” (thank you) and “la, shukran” (no, thank you) go a long way. French is also widely spoken.
Coming soon from our shop
The Morocco First-Time Visitor Guide
Everything you need to understand before your first trip, from money and etiquette to transport and safety habits.
See what's insideTravel details change. We review our guides regularly, but always confirm prices, schedules and entry requirements with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
