Enjoy Morocco Like A Local: Secret Insider Tips For An Unforgettable Vacation
Morocco is a paradise for those looking for a unique and memorable holiday. With its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine Morocco offers something for everyone! From the bustling souks of Morocco’s cities to the sprawling deserts of Merzouga, Morocco is filled with fascinating sights and experiences. For outdoor enthusiasts Morocco has plenty of activities such as camel trekking, kitesurfing, sandboarding or surfing in Essaouira. Alternatively visitors can explore Morocco’s rich history by visiting sites like Ait Benhaddou or marvel at the amazing architecture of Marrakech’s medina. Whether you are into adventure or just want to relax on a beach or by a pool Morocco is the perfect destination!
Best Time to Visit:
Morocco is a wonderful destination for any traveler, with its diverse landscapes from the deserts and mountains of the south to the shorelines of the Atlantic Ocean in Casablanca. Morocco also has a temperate climate, with mild summers and winters that make it an ideal destination year-round. Generally, Morocco is at its best during the springtime, when temperatures are moderate and many local festivals take place. March to May are usually warm enough to comfortably enjoy Morocco’s beaches and extensive outdoor activities such as trekking, biking and camel rides. During this period Morocco’s popular cities like Marrakech, Fez and Rabat can be explored without having to worry about extreme temperatures.
For those looking to experience Morocco’s culture up close, summer months offer a great opportunity thanks to the variety of outdoor festivals which take place all over Morocco. These festivities usually involve traditional dancing, singing and storytelling performances which allow visitors to immerse themselves into Morocco’s culture and heritage. Summertime can also be quite hot with average temperatures reaching highs of 40°C (104°F) in some areas so if you plan on visiting Morocco during this season be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen!
Come wintertime Morocco’s colder temperatures mean fewer crowds but at higher elevations there is still a chance for snowfall in places like Ifrane or Chefchaouen. This creates an entirely different atmosphere compared to Morocco’s sunny summers which makes for a unique experience for those who visit during this time. Wintertime can also be preferable for city breaks since Morocco’s famously bustling markets tend to have fewer visitors during this time of year making it easier to manoeuver around them.
The Most Happening Cities/Destinations in Greece
1. Marrakech: Located in Morocco’s stunning Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is a vibrant city filled with bustling souks, grand palaces and colorful mosques. This city offers a unique mix of old-world charm meets modern amenities making it the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore Morocco’s culture and history.
2. Fez: Morocco’s oldest imperial city, Fez has been around since 809 AD and is one of Morocco’s most visited cities due to its winding streets filled with local markets selling everything from spices to intricately crafted carpets & rugs. The Medina in Fez also contains many ancient buildings including the University of Al Quaraouiyine which was founded in 859AD!
3. Rabat: Morocco’s capital city located on the Atlantic coast boasts an eclectic blend of French colonial architecture combined with traditional Moroccan style buildings making it a must-see for any traveler visiting Morocco. In addition to this Rabat is also home to numerous museums such as Chellah Necropolis which makes it a great place for those interested in discovering more about Morocco’s past cultures and societies.
4. Merzouga Desert: Nestled deep within Morocco’s Sahara Desert, Merzouga is the perfect destination for any adventurer looking to explore Morocco’s expansive desert landscapes. Here you can take camel rides through golden sand dunes and experience Morocco’s stunning starry nights in an oasis of luxury under the stars.
5. Essaouira: With its blue-tinted white walls and unique fishing harbor, this ancient port city transports you back to Morocco’s past with its charming cobbled alleyways and colorful markets. Be sure to visit Essaouira’s famous beachfront promenade and enjoy some of Morocco’s freshest seafood!
Top Tourist Attractions:
Monuments:
1. Hassan Tower: Completed in 1195, this minaret was intended to be the largest mosque in Morocco but it remained unfinished due to its founder’s death.
2. Al-Masjid al-Hassani: Located on one of Morocco’s most popular tourist sites – Djemaa El Fna square, this mosque is still widely used today and features a beautiful courtyard surrounded by marble columns.
3. Bahia Palace: Built in the 19th century, the Bahia Palace is a large complex located near Marrakech which consists of several courtyards filled with lush gardens and colorful decorations making it one of Morocco’s most stunning monuments!
4. Kasbah des Oudaïa: Known as Rabat’s old city & situated overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this historic site contains many ancient buildings including fortifications, mosques & watchtowers for visitors to explore!
5. The ruins of Volubilis: Located near Meknes this UNESCO world heritage site has been around since 3rd century BC and consists of dramatic stone structures such as arches & doorways adorned with intricate carvings making it a must-see destination for all history lovers visiting Morocco!
Beautiful Sandy Beaches:
1. Agadir Beach: Located in Morocco’s south coast, this stunning beach is known for its golden sand and perfect waves making it a popular spot for surfers looking to catch some waves.
2. Plage des Nations: This beautiful white-sand beach is located close to Morocco’s capital city Rabat and offers visitors a peaceful escape with plenty of activities to choose from such as paddle boarding or relaxing on the beach!
3. Oualidia Beach: Situated near Morocco’s famous fishing port Essaouira, this secluded beach provides crystal clear waters & soft sands which create an ideal environment for swimming & sunbathing!
4. Legzira Beach: Make sure you visit Morocco’s most photographed beach, Legzira where you can find one of Morocco’s natural wonders – 2 giant red arches carved into the sea cliffs by centuries of wind & water erosion!
5. Imsouane Beach: If you’re looking to experience surfing paradise then make sure to check out Imsouane which offers several different beaches all lined with dramatic rocky cliffs providing unique backdrop scenery while catching some awesome waves!
Museums:
1. Morocco National Museum: Located in Rabat, Morocco, the Morocco National Museum showcases over 6,000 years of Moroccan art and culture. It features a wide variety of artifacts from different historical periods including ancient Berber objects, Islamic treasures and modern pieces reflecting Morocco’s cultural diversity.
2. Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: Located in Casablanca, this modern museum boasts various contemporary works from both local and international artists plus many other interactive experiences such as workshops to explore all aspects of Morocco’s visual arts!
3. Marrakech Museum: This museum is located inside an old palace known as El Badi which was built by Saadian Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur back in 1578! The museum holds many valuable artifacts including manuscripts, jewelry & pottery making it one of the most visited attractions in Marrakech!
4. Tiskiwin Museum: Situated near Agadir city center this beautiful house-museum is made up with several rooms filled with artefacts collected by artist& explorer Bert Flint during his travels across Morocco dating back to 1967! Visitors can also learn more about Berber culture through special exhibitions held at the site each year!
Theme Parks:
1. Marrakech Majorelle Garden: This lush garden hosts a variety of beautiful plants from around Morocco, plus the Berber Museum, which is dedicated to showcasing Morocco’s indigenous people & their culture.
2. Morocco Mall: Located in Casablanca, this shopping and entertainment complex features an indoor amusement park with roller coasters & other rides plus a massive aquarium containing over 200 species of fish!
3. Aquapark Marrakech: One of Morocco’s largest water parks located in the city of Marrakech featuring thrilling slides, two surf pools and an outdoor wave pool perfect for summer days spent splashing around!
4. La Bouverie Adventure Park: Situated near Agadir this crazy fun-filled theme park offers visitors exciting activities such as zip lining, mountain biking or kayaking all while admiring stunning views across the Atlantic Ocean!
5. Calypso Theme Park: Found just outside Tangier near Cap Spartel lighthouse, this family friendly theme park offers plenty of exciting attractions including a Ferris wheel and merry-go-round making it one of Morocco’s most popular destinations for kids!
Cultural Events:
1. Gnaoua World Music Festival – Held annually in Essaouira at the beginning of June, this festival celebrates Morocco’s traditional Gnaoua music with concerts featuring both local and international performers playing a mix of styles from blues to rock.
2. Marrakech Popular Arts Festival – This annual event is held in Marrakech every April and features performances by Morocco’s leading street musicians as well as special activities such as fire-walkers and storytellers.
3. Fes el Bali Festival – This 2 day festival takes place during the summer months in Fez at Bab Bou Jeloud Square where there are musical performances, dances, crafts displays & more!
4. Imilchil Marriage Festival – Every year around mid August this Berber ritual brings together young people from two village families who come together to celebrate their betrothal under Morocco’s biggest stars!
5. Moussem of Tan-Tan – This 4 day celebration happens near the end of September each year and captures the essence of Morocco’s nomadic culture with camel races, folkloric songs & much more!
Exploring Morocco’s Local Cuisine: Delicacies and Foods
1. Couscous: A traditional Berber dish made of steamed semolina grains, usually served with vegetables and a meat or fish stew on top.
2. Tajine: A slow-cooked stew that is traditionally cooked in an earthenware pot called a tajine, though it can be cooked in any deep pan. Common ingredients include onion, garlic, spices such as saffron, cumin and ginger as well as meats like beef and lamb.
3. Pastilla: A savory pie made from layers of filo pastry filled with either chicken or pigeon along with eggs, almonds and cinnamon for sweetness.
4. Harira Soup: This thick soup is popular during Ramadan and often contains lentils, wheat flour or vermicelli noodles plus tomatoes & chickpeas all simmered together until the broth has reduced to create a hearty nourishing meal!
5. Mechoui Lamb: Roasted whole lamb is commonly served at large family gatherings throughout Morocco & may be prepared by marinating the lamb overnight prior to roasting over hot coals for several hours! Served alongside couscous & salads this dish makes quite the feast!
Best Cities for Shopping:
1. Marrakech: Known as the ‘shopping capital’ of Morocco, this bustling city is home to countless markets selling everything from traditional crafts and souvenirs to modern clothing and jewelry.
2. Fez: The old city in Fez has been a major shopping center since medieval times, today it is known for its rich leather tanneries, intricate handcrafted rugs and colorful ceramics.
3. Tangier: This vibrant coastal port city offers visitors a wide range of goods that are unique to Morocco like hand-embroidered Berber carpets, spices & teas plus locally made designer fashion items!
4. Rabat: Morocco’s capital has long been popular with shoppers looking for unusual gifts & handmade artifacts such as pottery or copperware plus luxurious fabrics like silks & jacquards which can often be found in souks dotted around the medina area!
5. Casablanca: Morocco’s largest city features an impressive selection of luxury brands including Cartier and Louis Vuitton boutiques providing locals with quality products as well as tourists seeking out high end gifts!
Cities with Happening Nightlife:
1. Marrakech: Known for its lively atmosphere and traditional entertainment, this city is home to iconic venues like the Vista Club & Pacha Morocco nightclubs playing a mix of international music.
2. Casablanca: Morocco’s largest city features exciting bars and clubs such as the trendy Imperial Hotel, where you can find the best DJs spinning electro-disco tunes till late!
3. Tangier: This vibrant port city has a unique nightlife scene that includes rooftop lounges with spectacular views of Morocco’s coastline plus chic bistros serving up delicious tapas dishes!
4. Rabat: Morocco’s capital offers an eclectic mix of modern clubs, local pubs & live music performances all set against a stunning backdrop of ancient buildings & monuments!
5. Agadir: Home to some of Morocco’s most popular beach resorts, this coastal town is known for its buzzing nightlife spots featuring everything from open air concerts to exotic hookah bars & traditional Berber drum circles!
Peaceful and Tranquil Cities:
1. Essaouira: This coastal city is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, with a laid-back lifestyle and stunning views of the Atlantic ocean. It offers plenty of quiet spots to relax in such as the beach or local cafes, plus various activities like sailing and windsurfing that can be enjoyed by visitors.
2. Chefchaouen: Located in Morocco’s north west Rif mountains, this charming blue city is known for its peaceful vibes and breathtaking natural beauty. Its surrounding hills provide a tranquil setting perfect for leisurely hikes or bike rides while exploring the local markets & monuments!
3. Skoura: Situated on Morocco’s route between Fez & Marrakesh, this oasis town provides an ideal escape from bustling cities with its tranquil palm groves and old Kasbahs full of character! Its peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for those looking to get away from it all!
4. Merzouga: This small desert village provides a unique opportunity to experience Morocco off the beaten tourist path as well as take part in some unique activities such as camel riding through the vast dunes around Erg Chebbi!
5. Ouarzazate: Morocco’s ‘door to the desert’ is known for its laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy some peaceful moments amongst its stunning landscape & traditional architecture. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to relax and reconnect with nature!
No matter if you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, a lively nightlife scene or just want to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life; Morocco has something for everyone! With its diverse range of cities each offering their own unique charm, visitors can truly immerse themselves in Morocco’s culture. From souks and monuments to deserts and seaside resorts, Morocco is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever!
Language Spoken and Communication Barriers:
Morocco’s national language is Arabic and it is widely spoken by the population. Morocco also has two official languages, namely Morocco’s Berber dialect and French, which are both taught in schools. Morocco also has a rich cultural mix due to its close proximity to various African, European and Middle Eastern countries such as Spain, Algeria and Tunisia. This is evident in the many different languages that are spoken by the locals including Spanish, Berber (or Amazigh), Hassaniya (a dialect of Morocco) and even Judaeo-Spanish!
For visitors travelling to Morocco, it can be hard to communicate due to the language barrier. However, there are some ways that tourists can break through this barrier. One option is using basic English or French as these are commonly understood in Morocco’s cities. Additionally, learning some common phrases in Arabic or Berber will help visitors when conversing with locals. Another alternative for travellers who don’t speak either of these languages is to use sign language or facial expressions as a form of communication – this can often work surprisingly well!
For those looking for more long term solutions for communicating with Moroccans, there are language schools available throughout Morocco which offer classes featuring either traditional lessons or online tutorials on how to speak Moroccan Arabic or other regional languages like Hassania or Tamazight Berber. Additionally, there are also several apps available on smartphones specifically designed for helping people learn the local language quickly and easily while they travel around Morocco.
Overall, Morocco is an incredibly culturally diverse nation which makes communication with locals challenging but rewarding at the same time! With some effort put into learning either Arabic or French before visiting the country or taking part in one of Morocco’s language courses while you’re there, you’ll soon find yourself able to understand conversations more easily and even start making connections with new friends along your travels!
Commonly Used Phrases and Translations:
– Hello: Salam alaykum (Arabic)
– How are you? : Kif Halek/Halak (Arabic)
– Thank You: Shoukran (Arabic)
– Where is the bathroom?: Fin fonoun? (Berber)
– Yes: Na’am (Arabic)
– No: Laa (Arabic)
– What’s your name?:Shu Ismak?(Berber)/Ismi?( Arabic )
– Please/You’re Welcome: Al Afia / Baraka lahu fiik (Arabic )
– Excuse Me/ I’m sorry : Esma eli hilweh / Aasif Anaka ( Berber )
-Good Morning/Good Night : Sabah El Kheir / Masaa El Kheir ( Arabic )
Things To Avoid or Be Careful Of:
1. Don’t take pictures of women or Morocco’s military bodies without permission
2. Be aware of Morocco’s laws and customs before traveling
3. Respect Morocco’s religious holidays and dress appropriately
4. Avoid using public displays of affection in Morocco
5. Do not drink alcohol or do drugs in Morocco as it is illegal
6. Do not flaunt expensive items when travelling around Morocco as this could make you a target for theft
7. Take extra caution when walking at night, especially if you’re alone
8. Even though haggling over prices is expected in the markets, be respectful and avoid taking advantage of locals too much
9. Refrain from discussing sensitive topics such as religion, politics etc to avoid offending anyone
FAQs:
What kind of clothing should I wear?
When travelling to Morocco, it is important to dress modestly as Morocco has a more conservative attitude towards dressing. Women should avoid wearing short skirts, shorts or tops that show too much skin. Men should also avoid wearing shorts and tank tops in public areas. Traditional Moroccan garments such as a kaftan, djellaba or caftan can be found at local markets and make for great souvenirs! If you don’t want to purchase one of these items, then neutral colors are typically the way to go when choosing clothing while in Morocco. Additionally, be mindful of religious holidays where more conservative clothing may be required such as covering up arms and legs completely.
What are the things I should carry while I travel to Morocco
1. Valid passport
2. Morocco travel visa (if necessary)
3. Travel insurance documents
4. Cash and/or credit card
5. Phone with relevant apps installed such as maps, translation, currency converter etc
6. Plug adaptors for Morocco’s outlets
7. Good walking shoes and clothing that is appropriate to the local environment and customs
8. Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
9. Basic medical kit including bandages and any medications you may need while away
10. Portable charger
How do I get around the country/city while travelling to Morocco?
Getting around Morocco is relatively easy, thanks to its extensive public transportation network and relatively affordable rental car options. Morocco’s buses, trains, and taxis are all great ways to get around the country to explore its beautiful cities and towns.
For longer distances, Morocco’s state-owned train service is a great option. The system includes several high-speed trains that connect major cities like Marrakech and Rabat to other parts of Morocco, such as Tangier, Fez, and Meknes. Trains between cities in Morocco are frequent and run on time; they also vary in speed depending on the route you choose.
If you prefer a more flexible travel experience, Morocco’s bus network is ideal for getting around the country quickly and conveniently. Each route has several different buses available at different times of day with varying levels of comfort—ranging from luxury coaches with Wi-Fi access to basic local buses that travel between smaller towns. Every bus journey in Morocco will include a stop at one or two scenic destinations so you can take in some sights along the way!
Finally, if you want a more personalized travel experience then Morocco also offers plenty of taxi services from both private companies and local drivers who are licensed by Morocco’s tourism authority. These cabs have set prices for certain locations but can often be negotiated for discounts if you’re travelling further distances or during off-peak hours.
List of the most popular Taxi services in Morocco for convenient commute:
1. Careem Morocco
2. Taxis Marrakesh
3. Morocco Taxi App
4. TaxyCasablanca
5. AlloTaxi Rabat
6. Tangier Taxi App
7. Taxi Casablanca Airport
8. Morocco Taxi Services
9. Easy Morocco Travel
10 .Mtc-Morocco Tours & Transport
What is the best way to exchange currency?
When travelling to Morocco, it is important to have a good understanding of the currency and exchange rates. Morocco’s official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, post offices, authorized money changers and bureaux de change in Morocco. However, it is recommended that you only use bank bureaux de change or goldsmith shops as they offer better rates than hotels or other locations.
It is also possible to withdraw money from ATMs with a foreign debit/credit card in Morocco. However, this will incur additional charges from your bank back home and there may be fees from the Moroccan banks as well. It is therefore best to avoid withdrawals if possible and instead try to stick with cash transactions whenever possible. Additionally, it may be worth bringing some cash with you in euros or US dollars just in case an ATM isn’t available when you need it.
The Morocco Bureau of Exchange Regulation (MEB) sets exchange rates for all currencies in Morocco so make sure you are aware of these before exchanging any money. The current rate can usually be found online or at the MEB offices located around Morocco.
For travelers looking for convenience while exchanging money, app-based exchanges such as Remitly provide a safe and easy way to exchange currency online without having to visit physical locations. This service allows travelers to find the best rate for their chosen currency pair and buy Morocco Dirhams remotely – perfect for those who don’t want to deal with long lines at banks or take extra trips out of their way when visiting Morocco’s cities! Lastly, it is important to note that most places in Morocco do not accept credit cards so make sure you bring enough cash with you when travelling within Morocco.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
In the event of an emergency while travelling in Morocco, it is important to remain calm and seek help immediately. If you are facing a medical emergency, contact your local embassy or consulate for assistance. The nearest hospital should also be contacted as soon as possible if medical attention is required. Additionally, Morocco’s tourist police can provide guidance in such situations and they can be reached by dialling 1515 from any phone line in Morocco.
It is also recommended to have a list of useful contacts on hand while travelling within Morocco:
– Tourist Police Number: 1515
– Emergency Healthcare Service (SAMU): 112
– General Security Services Line: 195
– Moroccan Red Crescent Association (CRM): 012 99 35 76 08/ 062 99 05 28/ 061 99 10 55/ 053 99 03 59
– Civil Protection Rescue Service: 177
Conclusion:
Morocco is an incredible destination for those looking to explore a new culture and have fun. With the right planning, you can make your Morocco travel experience even more enjoyable by taking into account all of the useful information we’ve provided in this blog post. From transportation options such as cabs and app-based services like Remitly to currency exchange rates and emergency contact numbers, now you know exactly what it takes to stay safe while travelling in Morocco!
