Essential Things to Avoid in Morocco: A Traveler’s Guide to Steering Clear of Common Mistakes

Essential Things to Avoid in Morocco, As someone who recently returned from an eye-opening journey through Morocco, I’ve gained valuable insights that I wish I’d known before setting foot in this fascinating country. While Morocco offers an incredible blend of culture, history, and adventure, there are several pitfalls that can impact your experience. Let me share my personal learnings to help you make the most of your Moroccan adventure.

Navigating Social Interactions and Potential Scams

One of the most challenging aspects of traveling in Morocco is managing social interactions, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. My experiences taught me several crucial lessons that I hope will help you avoid common pitfalls.

The Friendly Stranger Dilemma

During my first day in Fez’s medina, I learned a valuable lesson about trust. While many Moroccans are genuinely hospitable, tourist areas attract individuals who use friendliness as a business strategy. At the famous Chouara Tannery, what started as a helpful suggestion from a local turned into an aggressive sales pitch at a leather shop. I later discovered this is a common practice where guides receive commissions for bringing tourists to specific stores.

To avoid such situations, I recommend:

• Politely but firmly declining unsolicited help
• Using official guides recommended by your accommodation
• Keeping walking when someone insists on showing you directions

The Importance of Professional Guides

Initially, I thought hiring a guide was unnecessary and expensive. However, after attempting to explore Marrakech’s medina alone and facing constant harassment from unofficial guides and persistent vendors, I quickly changed my mind. A licensed guide not only provides historical context but also acts as a buffer against unwanted attention.

My most enjoyable experiences came with guides who:

• Showed flexibility in customizing tours to my interests
• Helped navigate language barriers
• Provided cultural insights I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise

Maintaining a Confident Presence

Looking lost in Morocco’s maze-like medinas is like wearing a sign saying “Please hassle me.” I learned to check my route on Google Maps before walking and to step into shops when I needed to consult my phone. This simple strategy significantly reduced unwanted attention and made my exploration more enjoyable.

Animal Welfare Considerations

One of my regrets was initially supporting a snake charmer in Jemaa el-Fnaa square before learning about the cruel practices behind these shows. The same applies to monkey handlers. These animals often face harsh treatment and poor living conditions. Instead, consider supporting local animal welfare organizations or enjoying Morocco’s natural wildlife in ethical settings.

Practical and Logistical Considerations

Travel Companions and Transportation

Traveling solo in Morocco presented challenges I hadn’t anticipated. While it’s certainly possible, having a travel companion helped immensely with navigation, bargaining, and handling stressful situations. If you must go alone, connect with other travelers at your riad or join organized tours.

Regarding transportation, my attempt to drive from Casablanca to Fez taught me a valuable lesson. Between unmarked roads, aggressive drivers, and confusing signage, hiring a driver proved much more sensible. For city exploration, using petit taxis (after negotiating the fare) offered the best balance of convenience and cost.

Money Matters

Morocco’s cash-based economy caught me off guard. Even some higher-end establishments had issues with credit card payments. I recommend:

• Carrying sufficient cash for daily expenses
• Keeping small bills and coins for tips and services
• Researching current taxi rates to avoid overcharging
• Using ATMs at major banks for better exchange rates

Technical Preparations

Several technical oversights could have derailed my trip:

• Not having a Moroccan SIM card initially limited my ability to use ride-hailing apps and navigation
• Forgetting the right plug adapters meant searching for electronics shops
• Skipping VPN setup led to temporary banking access issues

Comfort and Practicality

Walking is the primary mode of transportation within medinas, and my choice of fashionable but impractical shoes quickly became a regret. Pack comfortable, closed-toe shoes that can handle uneven surfaces and occasional puddles.

Cultural Awareness and Expectations

Language and Communication

While tourist areas often have English-speaking staff, knowing basic French phrases proved invaluable in less-visited areas. Simple greetings and numbers in French or Arabic helped build rapport with locals and made negotiations easier.

Religious and Cultural Considerations

Friday, being the main prayer day, significantly impacts daily life. Many shops close for several hours, and some attractions operate on limited schedules. Planning activities accordingly and respecting local customs enhanced my experience.

Regarding dress code, I quickly learned that conservative clothing choices:

• Showed respect for local culture
• Reduced unwanted attention
• Made locals more receptive to interaction

Bathroom Situations

Western-style toilets are common in hotels and upscale restaurants, but traditional squat toilets prevail elsewhere. Always carry:

• Toilet paper or wet wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Small coins for public restroom attendants

Health and Safety Considerations

Medical Preparedness

While basic healthcare is available, serious medical issues require evacuation to Europe. I recommend:

• Comprehensive travel insurance
• Basic medical supplies
• Knowledge of your embassy’s location
• International hospital contacts in major cities

Technology Backup

After my phone malfunctioned in the Sahara, having a backup device proved essential for:

• Navigation
• Photography
• Emergency communication
• Booking confirmations

Drone Restrictions

Despite wanting aerial shots of the desert, I learned that drone usage requires special permits and is generally prohibited. Save yourself the hassle and leave the drone at home.

Must-Have Experiences

Desert Adventures

The Sahara Desert experience was a highlight of my trip. Don’t let the long journey deter you – the starlit nights and sunrise over the dunes create unforgettable memories. However, research tour operators thoroughly and read recent reviews.

Mountain and Rural Exploration

Some of my most authentic experiences came from visiting smaller towns in the Atlas Mountains. These areas offer:

• Traditional Berber culture
• Stunning landscapes
• Less touristy environments
• Genuine local interactions

Final Thoughts

While these insights stem from personal experiences and mistakes, they’ve shaped my understanding of traveling in Morocco. The key to an enjoyable visit lies in maintaining flexibility, respecting local customs, and preparing adequately for the unique challenges this fascinating country presents.

Remember that every traveler’s experience is different, and what worked for me might not work for everyone. However, these guidelines should help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your Moroccan adventure.