Morocco is a beautiful country located in North Africa, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're planning a trip to the bustling cities of Marrakech and Casablanca or exploring the quiet, traditional towns of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco has something for everyone. I was To make the most of your trip, here are some travel tips for Morocco:

12 Pro Travel Tips for Your Trip to Morocco

Dress conservatively

Morocco is a Muslim country, and as such, it's important to dress appropriately. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women may also want to consider wearing a headscarf, particularly in more conservative areas.

Learn some basic Arabic or French

While many people in Morocco speak English, it's always a good idea to learn some basic Arabic or French phrases before you go. Not only will this help you to communicate with locals, but it will also show that you respect their culture.

Stay in a Riad

When I was in Morocco, Riad Star graciously offered me a complimentary stay. Riad Star was formerly the home of Jazz Age superstar Josephine Baker, and is now an intimate boutique hotel with just thirteen guest rooms. The décor was thoughtful, hospitality top chart, and location ideal for exploring the Medina and souks of Marrakech.

Plus they have delicious home cooked meals, like Moroccan crepes at breakfast and lamb tagine and roasted veggies for dinner. I cannot recommend Riad Star enough if you are looking for a place to stay in Marrakech.

The company also owns Riad Spice and Riad Cinnamon, if you want similar vibes and service but can’t find a room available at Riad Star.

Bargain when shopping

Bargaining is a common practice in Morocco, particularly in markets and souks. Don't be afraid to negotiate on prices, but be respectful and polite when doing so.

Hire a local guide

A local guide can be a great way to learn more about Moroccan culture and history, as well as to navigate the sometimes confusing maze of markets and souks. Consider hiring a guide for at least part of your trip. I linked a few of my favorites below, so keep reading for more.

Try the street food

Moroccan cuisine is delicious and varied, with plenty of street food options to try. Don't be afraid to sample some of the local delicacies, such as tagine, couscous, and pastries. Just take some precautions to avoid the risk of food borne illness! Street food is a popular and affordable way to eat in Morocco, but food that is not properly prepared or cooked can carry harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause food poisoning or other illnesses.

To reduce the risk of getting sick from street food in Morocco, be sure to choose food that is cooked in front of you and is served hot, avoid raw or undercooked meat, seafood, and eggs, wash your hands thoroughly before eating, and pay attention to the cleanliness of the food stall and its surroundings and the hygiene practices of the person preparing the food.

Drink plenty of water

Morocco can be hot and dry, particularly in the summer months. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and avoid drinking tap water. There aren’t many reliable sources to refill a water bottle, so just be sure to buy a few bottles of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Pay attention to your belongings

As with any travel destination, it's important to take care with your belongings in Morocco. Keep an eye on your bags and wallets, particularly in busy areas, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Respect local customs

Morocco is a conservative country, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, avoid public displays of affection, particularly between couples of different genders. I was with a friend of mine in Marrakech so it was easy there, but in Casablanca I had to keep reminding myself not to hold my husband’s hand when we were walking, and a few times I forgot I noticed the stares from locals.

Visit the Sahara or Agafay desert

No trip to Morocco would be complete without a visit to the Sahara desert. Take a camel ride into the dunes, watch the sunset over the sand, and spend a night in a traditional Berber tent. If you’re only staying in Marrakech a trip to the Sahara may not be feasible since it’s about an 8 hour drive away, but you can check out the nearby Agafay desert. it’s rockier but can still make for a really fun day trip from Marrakech and has all the classic activities like camel riding, quad biking, hot air balloon rides and stargazing.

Take it slow

Morocco can be overwhelming, with its bright colors, spicy smells, and bustling crowds. Take your time, enjoy the moment, and don't try to cram too much into your itinerary. Instead, savor the experience and immerse yourself in the culture. Staying in a riad can help you maximize the calm, tranquil vibes and escape the hustle and bustle of the city with ease.

Avoid some common scams

While Morocco is generally a safe country for travelers, it's important to be aware of common scams that can occur. Here are some scams to avoid in Morocco:

Fake guides - Some individuals may approach you in busy tourist areas and offer to be your guide, but then demand exorbitant fees for their services. It's best to book a guide through a reputable tour company like Viator or your hotel.
Unofficial taxis - Avoid taking unofficial taxis, as they may overcharge you or take you on an unnecessarily long route to your destination. Always use official taxis and agree on a fare beforehand (most will not use the meter so be sure to ask and negotiate the fare in advance.
Pickpocketing - As in any busy tourist area, pickpocketing can occur in Morocco. Keep your belongings close to you, and be wary of individuals who bump into you or distract you.
Fake products - Be wary of vendors selling fake products, such as counterfeit designer handbags or traditional Moroccan textiles. It's best to shop in reputable stores or markets with fixed prices.
Scams at ATMs - Be cautious when using ATMs, as some may have skimming devices that steal your credit card information. Use ATMs in secure locations, such as banks or shopping malls.
Street games - Avoid participating in street games, such as shell games or three-card monte, as they are often rigged and designed to scam tourists.
False emergencies - Scammers may approach you on the street claiming to have an emergency, such as a sick family member or a lost passport, and ask for money. Just ignore them and keep it moving quickly.

Have you been to Morocco? It truly is a fascinating and beautiful country, full of culture, history, and natural wonders. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip, and have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Check out more of my favorite Morocco tours on Viator, and thank you again to Riad Star for hosting my stay.

Check out some of these other travel posts!

4 Unexpected Things to Know Before Traveling-to Jordan

6 Ways I Will Never Be the Same After Moving Internationally

6 Essential Safety Tips to You Need Before Your Next Trip