Morocco Tours Faqs
Top Commonly Asked Questions
Morocco Official Tours : FAQs
Morocco Tours Faqs When organizing a trip to Morocco, having answers to common questions is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable experience. Below is a compiled list of FAQs addressing various aspects of traveling in Morocco.
General Information
Morocco Official Tours (M-O-T) is an online platform where you can book various tours and activities in Morocco. Options include sightseeing tours, cultural and historical tours, sports and extreme activities, culinary and nightlife experiences, shore excursions, imperial tours, and much more.
Morocco’s climate varies widely, offering pleasant weather somewhere in the country year-round. The Atlantic coast enjoys sunny weather in the mid-20s Celsius throughout the year. The mountains provide relief from the summer heat found in the southern desert towns. For desert tours, spring and autumn are ideal, though winter also offers pleasant sunshine despite cold nights. It’s best to avoid desert visits during July and August unless you are accustomed to very high temperatures.
For visits shorter than 90 days, a visa is not required. For the latest visa information, check the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco website. If you stay longer than 90 days without an extension, you must appear before a judge before leaving the country.
You can exchange cash at the airport bank exchange upon arrival or use local banks and currency exchange offices in cities and medinas during your travels.
Internet access can be easily found in Internet cafes and hotel lobbies. Sometimes, you can find free Wi-Fi in public places. Although it is not easy to find internet access in rural areas, a smartphone with the right plan will be able to access the internet almost everywhere.
Out of respect, we suggest wearing shorts and long t-shirts instead of shorts and tank tops (for women) and wearing only swimwear at the beach or by the hotel pool.
Women may want to carry a scarf with them to wrap around them in rural areas to avoid causing any crime, especially during Ramadan.
In the winter months, you will need some warm clothes for the cold nights especially in the mountains and desert where it can get very cold with sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall.
It is recommended not to drink tap water in Morocco. While some areas treat the water, it’s safer to use bottled water, which will be provided to you at no charge.
Staying in a riad in the medina is a uniquely Moroccan experience. Your hosts will provide exemplary hospitality. Similar to a bed and breakfast but with more opulent interiors, your room might not have a TV or telephone, and breakfasts may be continental. Staying in a riad allows you to experience traditional Moroccan home life, stroll through the bustling medina, relax in a garden courtyard, and feel the heartbeat of the country.
Prices in Morocco vary by quality, much like in the Western world. You can find both very cheap and very expensive items. Haggling is a common practice, and you might get a better price by negotiating. Compared to Western prices, almost everything in Morocco is relatively inexpensive.
Our prices depend on the number of people in your group. Larger groups can reduce the cost per person.
Key Islamic holidays include Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha. Local saints’ festivals (Moussem) are also observed. These holidays follow the lunar calendar, moving by 10-11 days each year. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. The pace of life slows during the day, but night activities are vibrant. Many restaurants open late and stay open longer, making it a unique time to visit. Most tourist sites remain open during Ramadan, but not all holidays are public holidays.
Morocco is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s wise to follow standard travel precautions, such as staying away from poorly lit areas at night and keeping a close watch on your personal belongings.
The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Berber. French is widely spoken, and English is commonly understood in tourist areas.
The currency used in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. However, it’s advisable to carry cash when traveling to remote areas.
The duration of Morocco tours varies widely. Short tours can last 3-5 days, while more extensive tours can range from 7-14 days or longer.
Tipping is customary in Morocco. In restaurants, leaving a tip of 10-15% of the bill is appreciated. Tipping guides, drivers, and hotel staff is also common.
Must-see destinations include Marrakech, Fez, Chefchaouen, the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira.
Traveling within Morocco can be done by train, bus, car, or domestic flights. Trains and buses are the most common modes of transportation.
There are no mandatory vaccinations for Morocco, but it’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccines. Consult your doctor for advice.
Moroccan cuisine is rich and diverse, with staples like couscous, tagine, harira, and a variety of breads. Moroccan tea and pastries are also popular.
Yes, camel treks are a popular activity in the Sahara Desert. Most tours offer camel rides as part of the desert experience.
To experience Moroccan culture, consider visiting souks (markets), attending traditional music and dance performances, trying local cuisine, and staying in a riad (traditional house).
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden or courtyard. Many have been converted into guesthouses and offer an authentic Moroccan experience.
Morocco is in the Western European Time (WET) zone, which is UTC+0. However, during daylight saving time (from April to October), it follows Western European Summer Time (WEST), which is UTC+1.
You can use your mobile phone in Morocco if you have international roaming enabled. Alternatively, you can buy a local SIM card for cheaper rates.
Your budget will depend on your travel style, but Morocco can be a very affordable destination. Budget travelers can get by on $50-70 per day, while mid-range travelers might spend $100-150 per day.
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum.
Bargaining is a common practice in Morocco, especially in markets and souks. Start by offering half of the initial price and negotiate from there. It’s meant to be a friendly exchange.
Stick to reputable tour operators, avoid unsolicited offers, and be cautious with prices. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
The emergency number for police in Morocco is 19, and for medical emergencies, it is 15.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities and tourist areas. However, connection quality may vary in remote areas.
You can drive in Morocco with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to one year. After that, you’ll need to obtain a Moroccan license.
Public transportation in Morocco includes trains, buses, and taxis. Trains are comfortable and efficient for long distances, while taxis and buses are more common for shorter journeys.
Good to know
Yes, camping in the Moroccan Sahara Desert is generally safe, especially at authentic and luxurious camps run by local Bedouins. These hosts are familiar with the area and know the best places to visit.
Morocco offers a great vacation for families with activities for all ages. Enjoy a hot-air balloon ride over Marrakech, explore the Ourika Valley and the desert, ride camels in the Sahara, and wander through the colorful medina in Fez. This moderate Muslim North African country welcomes all travelers.
We arrange private tours for couples, families or groups of friends. But we also offer small group tours (from 1 to 30 people)
We will travel in a 4×4 vehicle with a maximum capacity of 4 people. If your group is more than 4 people we will take a Mercedes Benz Vito, and if your group is more than 8 people we will take a luxury minibus.
Yes, you can take your luggage during the tour, the vehicles are spacious enough to accommodate many large bags, your luggage will be with you at all times so it is safe, even in the desert, your luggage will be transported to the camp with a 4×4 vehicle to the tents.
Yes, it is usually possible to reach the camp without riding camels. Many desert tour operators offer alternatives such as 4×4 vehicles or walking options for those who prefer not to ride camels.
Yes, most desert camps and tour operators can accommodate dietary preferences including vegetarian and vegan options. It’s advisable to inform them in advance to ensure they can prepare suitable meals for you.
Private Tour: A private tour is exclusively for you and your group. It offers more flexibility in terms of itinerary and schedule. You can enjoy a more personalized experience with dedicated attention from the guide.
Shared Tour: A shared tour involves joining other travelers. It is usually more cost-effective but may have a fixed schedule and itinerary. Interaction with other participants can be a plus for those looking to meet new people.
The availability of private bathrooms depends on the specific camp and the level of accommodation you choose. Some luxury camps offer private bathrooms with each tent or accommodation unit, while more basic camps may have shared bathroom facilities. It’s best to check with the tour operator or camp directly for precise information.
Payments
Morocco Official Tours accepts various payment methods, including American Express, Mastercard, Visa, Discover, PayPal, Western Union, and bank transfers.
Payments can be made in Euros, Pound sterling, dollars, or Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). Our prices are competitive and offer the best value in the industry.
When booking a tour, you are required to pay a ten percent deposit of the agreed price.
You can cancel your booking after confirming your reservation, provided the cancellation is within twenty-four hours of confirmation.
Discover the Magic of Morocco: A Journey Through Enchantment
Desert tours in Morocco, particularly to the Sahara Desert, offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore vast, stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the tranquil, otherworldly beauty of the desert. These tours can range from a short day trip to multi-day adventures, allowing you to experience everything from camel treks to 4×4 excursions.
Types of Desert Tours in Morocco
1. Camel Trekking in the Sahara Desert
Overview: The most iconic desert experience in Morocco is camel trekking. You’ll ride a camel across the famous sand dunes of the Sahara, often in places like Erg Chebbi near Merzouga or Erg Chigaga near M’Hamid.
Highlights:
Overnight in a Desert Camp: Spend a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp. These camps often feature nomadic-style tents with comfortable bedding, and you’ll have the chance to enjoy a campfire, traditional music, and Moroccan cuisine.
Sunrise and Sunset: The Sahara is known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. A camel ride at these times allows you to see the dunes light up with golden hues.
Stargazing: The Sahara’s clear skies make it one of the best places for stargazing. The lack of light pollution offers a perfect view of the stars.
Tour Duration: Depending on the tour, it can last anywhere from one night to several days.
2. 4×4 Desert Adventures
Overview: For those who prefer not to ride camels, a 4×4 desert adventure is an excellent alternative. These tours take you across the vast desert landscapes in a comfortable vehicle, allowing you to cover more ground.
Highlights:
Explore Remote Oases: Visit stunning desert oases and see the contrast between the arid dunes and the lush, green palm groves.
Sand Dunes and Valleys: Drive through the impressive sand dunes of Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga and explore desert valleys like Draa Valley or Todra Gorge.
Visit Ancient Kasbahs: Many desert tours include stops at historical sites such as ancient kasbahs (fortified villages) or old caravanserais.
Camel Ride or Quad Biking: Some 4×4 tours combine a ride through the dunes with a camel trek or even the option to try quad biking across the desert.
Tour Duration: These tours can range from a few hours to several days, with the longer trips often including stays at desert camps.
3. Overnight Desert Tours
Overview: A 1-2 day desert tour is one of the most popular options, often starting from cities like Marrakech, Fes, or Ouarzazate. You’ll journey through the mountains and valleys to reach the Sahara, where you’ll spend a night in a desert camp.
Highlights:
Crossing the Atlas Mountains: Enjoy scenic drives through the High Atlas or Anti-Atlas Mountains, passing through the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass and the picturesque Draa Valley.
Overnight in a Berber Camp: Sleep in a traditional Berber tent and experience the hospitality of the nomadic people. You may even have a chance to try local dishes like tagine and couscous.
Traditional Music & Dancing: Many desert camps feature live music from Berber musicians, and sometimes, guests are invited to join in traditional dances around the campfire.
Popular Tour Routes:
Marrakech to Merzouga: This is one of the most common desert tours. It includes visits to Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, and a trek across the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Fes to Merzouga: A tour from Fes usually includes stops at Ifrane, Midelt, and Erfoud before reaching the desert.
4. Luxury Desert Tours
Overview: For those seeking a more upscale experience, luxury desert tours offer premium services such as private guides, high-end accommodations, and comfort during desert excursions.
Highlights:
Luxury Camps: Stay in glamping-style camps, which are far more luxurious than traditional desert camps, often with large, en-suite tents featuring comfortable beds, running water, and even Wi-Fi.
Gourmet Meals: Enjoy gourmet meals, often prepared by chefs who specialize in Moroccan cuisine, in the heart of the desert.
Private Experiences: With a private tour, you’ll enjoy the freedom to customize the itinerary to suit your interests, whether that means longer treks, more luxurious accommodations, or additional activities.
Tour Duration: Usually, luxury tours span 2-4 days, giving you ample time to explore the desert in comfort.
5. Quad Biking or Sandboarding in the Desert
Overview: For adventure seekers, quad biking or sandboarding are fun, high-energy activities you can do in the desert. Many desert tours offer these as optional add-ons.
Highlights:
Quad Biking: Ride a quad bike across the sand dunes, navigating through the desert landscape with a guide. This is an exciting way to explore the vast expanses of the Sahara.
Sandboarding: If you’re into snowboarding, sandboarding is similar, where you ride a board down the steep sand dunes. It’s a thrilling way to experience the desert!
Tour Duration: Typically, quad biking and sandboarding tours last a few hours, often combined with a camel ride or 4×4 adventure.
Popular Desert Tour Locations
Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes) – Known for its massive dunes, this area offers the quintessential Sahara experience. It’s one of the most visited locations for camel trekking and desert camping.
M’Hamid (Erg Chigaga Dunes) – A quieter and more remote area, ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds and explore the untouched Sahara.
Zagora – Often referred to as the gateway to the desert, Zagora offers shorter desert experiences, typically for those on a time crunch.
Tafilalet Oasis – Known for its palm groves and stunning landscapes, this oasis area is rich in history and a less crowded desert destination.
Discover the Magic of Morocco: A Journey Through Enchantment
Morocco is a fascinating country with a rich culture, diverse landscapes, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient cities, trekking through the desert, or experiencing traditional Moroccan hospitality, there’s a wide range of tours to suit every interest. Here are some popular types of tours you can take in Morocco:
1. Desert Tours (Sahara Desert)
Camel Trekking: Experience the beauty of the Sahara Desert on a camel ride. Most tours include an overnight stay in a desert camp, where you can stargaze, enjoy traditional music, and experience the nomadic lifestyle.
4×4 Desert Adventures: For a more comfortable desert experience, you can explore the desert in a 4×4 vehicle, visiting remote oases, sand dunes, and unique desert landscapes.
Day Trips to the Desert: If you’re based in Marrakech or Fes, you can book day trips that take you to desert locations like the Erg Chebbi Dunes, where you can enjoy the vast sand dunes.
2. Cultural and Historical Tours
Marrakech City Tours: Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech, including its famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Majorelle Gardens, and the Saadian Tombs.
Fes & Meknes Tours: Visit the ancient city of Fes, with its UNESCO-listed Medina, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the tanneries. Meknes, another imperial city, offers a quieter, less touristy experience with sights like the Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
Chefchaouen: Famous for its blue-painted buildings, Chefchaouen is a small town in the Rif Mountains that has become a popular destination for photography and relaxation.
3. Atlas Mountain Treks
Trekking in the Atlas Mountains: Explore the scenic mountain ranges of the High Atlas or Anti-Atlas. These treks can range from easy hikes to more challenging climbs, including ascents of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.
Berber Villages: On your trek, you can visit traditional Berber villages, where you’ll learn about local culture, agriculture, and craftsmanship.
4. Coastal Tours
Essaouira: A charming coastal city with a blend of Portuguese, French, and Moroccan influences. Explore the UNESCO-listed Medina, visit the beach, or take a boat tour.
Agadir: Known for its modern beach resorts and long stretches of coastline, Agadir offers relaxation and water activities such as surfing, kite surfing, and swimming.
Casablanca & Rabat: Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, is home to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Rabat, the capital, offers historical sites like the Royal Palace and the Hassan Tower.
5. Moroccan Cooking Classes & Food Tours
Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla in a hands-on cooking class.
Food Tours: Explore Moroccan cuisine through guided food tours in cities like Marrakech or Fes, where you can sample local dishes at markets and street food stalls.
6. Luxury Tours
Private Guided Tours: For a more luxurious experience, you can book private tours that offer personalized itineraries, staying in high-end riads and hotels, and traveling in comfort.
Gourmet Experiences: Some tours offer gourmet dining experiences, including wine tasting (although Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, wine is produced in certain regions) and visits to high-end restaurants and local markets.
7. Adventure Tours
Hiking and Rock Climbing: Morocco’s varied landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and canyoning, particularly in the Atlas Mountains.
Surfing: Morocco’s coastline, especially around Taghazout and Agadir, is a popular destination for surfing. Various surf schools and camps offer lessons for all levels.
8. Guided Walking Tours
Marrakech Medina Walking Tours: Discover the history and hidden gems of the old city with a local guide, from the souks to the historical palaces.
Fes Medina Walking Tours: Fes has one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world, and a walking tour can take you through narrow alleys, artisan workshops, and centuries-old monuments.
Discover the Magic of Morocco: A Journey Through Enchantment
Welcome to Morocco, a land where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with vibrant modernity, offering an unforgettable travel experience. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Morocco boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and histories.
Marrakech: The Red City
Begin your adventure in Marrakech, often called the “Red City” for its distinctive red sandstone buildings. The heart of this bustling metropolis is the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a lively hub of street performers, food vendors, and local artisans. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the medina, where you’ll find a dazzling array of souks (markets) selling everything from spices to intricate textiles. Don’t miss the stunning Majorelle Garden and the historical Saadian Tombs, each offering a glimpse into Morocco’s past and present.
Fes: The Spiritual Center
Travel to Fes, a city renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its role as Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual center. Wander through Fes el-Bali, the ancient medina, where you can explore traditional tanneries, majestic mosques, and the Al-Qarawiyyin University—the world’s oldest continually operating university. The intricate designs of Fes’s zellij tiles and the serenity of its madrasas provide a captivating insight into Moroccan craftsmanship and scholarship.
Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl
Experience the enchanting town of Chefchaouen, famously known as the “Blue Pearl” due to its striking blue-painted streets and buildings. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen offers a serene escape with its relaxed vibe and stunning views. Stroll through its charming medina, enjoy local culinary delights, and embrace the tranquility of the surrounding natural beauty.
The Sahara Desert of Merzouga: A Journey into the Heart of the Sand
No trip to Morocco is complete without a journey to the Sahara Desert. Embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga, and experience the breathtaking solitude of this vast landscape. Spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp, where you can enjoy a sumptuous dinner around a campfire and marvel at the unspoiled night sky.
Camel Treks:
Embark on a camel trek to immerse yourself in the desert’s tranquil beauty. Guided by experienced Berber camel drivers, you’ll traverse the undulating dunes, feeling the rhythm of the desert with each step of your camel. The journey is a chance to connect with the traditional mode of desert travel and experience the vastness of the Sahara in a way that few ever do.
Desert Camp: A Night Under the Stars
Spend a night in a traditional desert camp, where comfort meets authenticity. These camps, often set up in the heart of the dunes, offer cozy tents equipped with comfortable bedding and traditional Moroccan decor. As night falls, gather around a campfire to enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner, listen to local music, and marvel at the pristine night sky—free from the light pollution of urban areas.
Sunrise and Sunset: Nature’s Spectacle
Witness the desert’s most enchanting moments at sunrise and sunset. As the sun rises over the horizon, the dunes come alive with a warm, golden light that creates an ever-changing landscape of shadows and hues. At sunset, the sky explodes in a spectacular display of colors, casting a magical glow over the dunes. These moments are perfect for reflection and photography, capturing the raw beauty of the Sahara.
Discovering Zagora: The Gateway to the Sahara
Nestled in the southern reaches of Morocco, Zagora offers a gateway to the majestic Sahara Desert and a taste of traditional Berber culture. This charming town, often considered the starting point of desert adventures, invites travelers to experience its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and hospitality.
Exploring the Desert of Zagora
A visit to Zagora isn’t complete without venturing into the Sahara. Camel treks are a popular way to explore the dunes, offering a chance to witness breathtaking sunsets and star-studded skies. Experienced guides lead these treks, sharing insights into desert life and traditions. For those who prefer a different mode of exploration, 4×4 tours provide a thrilling alternative, allowing you to cover more ground and discover hidden gems of the desert.
The Charm of Zagora
Zagora’s allure begins with its stunning surroundings. Surrounded by rugged mountains and vast desert expanses, the town is a serene oasis where palm groves provide a lush contrast to the arid landscape. The warm, welcoming atmosphere of Zagora, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.
Casablanca: The Modern Marvel
For a taste of Morocco’s modern side, visit Casablanca, the country’s largest city and a bustling economic hub. Here, you can admire the architectural marvel of the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with its stunning seaside location and intricate design. Casablanca also offers vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Rabat: The Royal Capital
Explore Rabat, Morocco’s capital, which blends modernity with historical charm. Visit the Royal Palace, the Hassan Tower, and the picturesque Oudaias Kasbah, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Rabat’s relaxed ambiance and cultural landmarks provide a perfect balance of history and contemporary Moroccan life.
Tangier: Where Cultures Converge
Finally, discover Tangier, a city where Moroccan, Spanish, and French influences intersect. Situated at the gateway to the Mediterranean, Tangier offers a fascinating mix of cultures and histories. Wander through its medina, explore the vibrant port area, and soak in the city’s artistic heritage.
Practical Tips for Your Moroccan Adventure
- Language: Arabic and Berber are widely spoken, but French is also commonly used.
- Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Cuisine: Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla. Be sure to try Moroccan mint tea!
Embark on this journey through Morocco, where every moment is steeped in wonder, history, and unparalleled beauty. Your Moroccan adventure awaits!