Morocco Travel Essentials Guide
🇲🇦 Morocco Travel Guide
📍 Must-Visit Cities and Attractions
1. Marrakech
• Jemaa el-Fnaa: The bustling market and street performances are the soul of Morocco.
• Bahia Palace: Exquisite Moorish architecture, perfect for photo ops.
• Majorelle Gardens: The blue gardens, restored by Yves Saint Laurent, are brimming with exotic charm.
2. Fes
• Fes el-Bali: The world's largest and best-preserved medieval city, its maze of alleyways is full of surprises.
• Chouara Tannery: Witness the traditional leather dyeing process.
3. Chefchaouen
• The famous Blue Town, filled with blue and white houses, is a dreamy sight and perfect for photo ops. 4. Sahara Desert (Merzouga / Erg Chebbi)
• Experience a camel ride into the desert, watch the sunset, stay in a Berber tent, and gaze at the star-filled sky at night.
5. Casablanca
• Hassan II Mosque: The third largest mosque in the world, with some areas accessible to non-Muslims.
6. Rabat
• The capital of Morocco, with attractions including the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas.
⸻
🚗 Transportation
• Within the city: Petit taxis are common, but be sure to negotiate a price or ask for metered service.
• Between cities:
• Train (ONCF): Connects Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech, comfortable and reliable.
• Bus (CTM / Supratours): Affordable and covers a wide range. • Chartering a car or joining a local tour: This is particularly convenient, especially for trips to the Sahara Desert.
⸻
🍴 Food Recommendations
• Tajine: Meat and vegetables stewed in a clay pot, rich in spices.
• Couscous: A classic North African dish, especially popular on Fridays.
• Harira: A soup made with tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas.
• Mint Tea: Morocco's national drink, refreshing and soothing.
• Chebakia: Sesame and honey cookies, often enjoyed with tea.
⸻
🛍️ Shopping Must-Buys
• Carpets, ceramics, leather goods, argan oil (essential for skincare).
• Traditional lamps, spices, and handmade silver jewelry.
⸻
⚠️ Things to Note
1. Language: Arabic and French are the primary languages, but English is also widely spoken in tourist areas. 2. Religious Customs: Islam is the primary religion, so dress appropriately and avoid revealing clothing.
3. Public Safety: Major tourist attractions are safe, but be wary of pickpockets.
4. Bargaining Culture: Bargaining is common at the market, and it's common to bargain down to half the price first.
5. Tipping: Restaurants, hotel staff, tour guides, and others all accept tips.
6. Climate: Summers are hot and dry, while spring and autumn are the best seasons for travel. The temperature in the desert fluctuates greatly between day and night, so bring a jacket.