Morocco is one of those countries that sweeps you off your feet – with its colors, chaos, mint tea, and magic. But it’s also a place where doing some research in advance can really save you time, money, and stress.
We’re not here to sugarcoat things, but also not to scare you off. Morocco is beautiful and unforgettable, but there are some things that catch travelers by surprise. After visiting recently, we put together this guide with the most helpful, real, and practical things to know before going to Morocco.
Don’t just go to Marrakech
Marrakech is amazing, but also super touristy. If you only stay there, you’ll miss out on Morocco’s real charm. Cities like Fes are more authentic and way less crowded, Essaouira is a coastal dream with chill vibes, and Chefchaouen looks like a blue fairytale.
One of the most important things to know before going to Morocco is: the country is full of contrasts and different regions give you completely different vibes. Try to combine a few!
People often associate Morocco with sun and desert, but fewer know that there are also beautiful mountains where it even snows in winter – you can actually go skiing! The coastline is stunning too, with laid-back beach towns and amazing surf spots.
Plus, Morocco has gorgeous waterfalls and lush nature if you head into the right regions. There’s truly so much more than just the desert.
If you want to explore beyond the city, check out our blog on Top Marrakech Excursions: Best Day Trips & Tours You Can’t Miss for ideas and inspiration.
Dress respectfully (yes, even in the heat)
Even though you’ll see some tourists walking around in shorts and tank tops, it’s best to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover your shoulders and knees – especially in smaller towns. You’ll feel more comfortable and show respect for the culture.
For women, a light scarf can be handy, and breathable fabrics like linen are lifesavers. For men, lightweight pants and loose shirts work best – skip the tank tops and go for short sleeves instead.
We have a full guide on what to wear in Marrakech as a woman and as a man if you want more inspiration!
Not everyone offering help is just being friendly
This one’s important. A common scam is when someone offers to guide you to your riad or give directions – and then demands money after.
If you’re lost, try asking a woman, someone working in a store, or even walk into a riad and ask reception for help. It’s one of those things that sounds small but makes a big difference in your experience.
French is everywhere
Morocco’s official language is Arabic, but French is spoken almost everywhere as a second language. From menus and shop signs to everyday conversations, you’ll hear a lot of French.
English is common in touristy areas, but knowing a few French phrases (like “combien ça coûte?” for “how much is it?”) can really help.
Always carry cash
A lot of places don’t accept cards – especially local markets, street food spots, and smaller cafes. Even places that do take cards sometimes add a 2-3% fee.
So it’s a smart move to always have Moroccan dirhams with you. ATMs are easy to find in bigger cities, but they often charge a withdrawal fee, so plan ahead.
Friday is their Sunday
If you’re planning your trip, note that Friday is a holy day in Morocco. Many shops and restaurants (especially local ones) might open later or close completely for a few hours during midday prayers.
Plan ahead so you don’t miss out or end up hungry somewhere random!
Taxi tips: Agree on a price first
In most cities, especially tourist-heavy ones like Marrakech, taxis often don’t turn on the meter. Always agree on a price before you get in.
Ask your hotel what the usual price is for common routes so you have a benchmark. You can also use apps like Bolt in bigger cities, which helps avoid the awkward bargaining.
Wi-Fi is hit or miss
Riads might advertise Wi-Fi, but don’t expect lightning speed. It’s fine for checking emails or WhatsApp, but not great for uploading reels or having Zoom calls.
If you want to stay connected, grab a local SIM card from the airport or a phone shop in town – Orange and Inwi have solid coverage and prepaid data plans.
We actually ordered an eSIM from Holafly before going, just for internet, and it worked great for our 4-day trip. It cost around 10 EUR and was super convenient.
Don’t drink the tap water
This one’s simple: only drink bottled water. Even locals mostly avoid the tap water. It’s cheap and widely available, so stock up whenever you can.
Also avoid ice in your drinks at less touristy restaurants, and maybe skip raw veggies if you have a sensitive stomach.
Expect to haggle (It’s part of the culture)
If you’re shopping in the souks, haggling is a must. Prices are often inflated for tourists, so start by offering half (or even a third) of what they first ask.
Do it with a smile and a little humor – it’s part of the experience. And if it doesn’t feel right, just walk away.
Expect some hustle
From kids selling bracelets to guys offering unsolicited tours, there will be people trying to make a quick dirham. Some are harmless, but others can be persistent.
A firm “no thank you” (or “la shukran” in Arabic) usually does the trick.
Riads are better than hotels
Staying in a riad (a traditional Moroccan guesthouse) is one of the best experiences you can have. They’re usually located inside the medina, have gorgeous courtyards, and offer homemade breakfasts.
Plus, the staff is often super helpful with directions and arranging activities.
Respect religious customs
If you’re visiting religious places or during Ramadan, be extra mindful. Avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours out of respect.
And at mosques, follow the dress code (shoulders and legs covered, women may need to cover their hair) and check if non-Muslims are allowed in.
Desert nights are cold!
Don’t let the sunny days fool you – it gets chilly at night, especially in the Sahara.
If you’re doing a desert tour, pack layers: a hoodie, thermal leggings, maybe even a light jacket depending on the season. We were surprised by how cold it got after sunset.
Go with the flow
This is probably our favorite of all the things to know before going to Morocco. Don’t try to plan every minute.
Leave space for surprises – a tea invitation, a random live music show, or getting a bit lost in the medina (it’ll happen, trust us). That’s where the best memories are made.
Final thoughts
There are so many things to know before going to Morocco, but don’t let that stress you out. With a little prep, some cash in your pocket, and a curious mindset, you’ll have the time of your life. It’s a place that overwhelms your senses in the best way possible.
Got questions? Drop us a comment or explore more Morocco guides on The Nomadic Hearts — including our detailed Marrakech 3 Day Itinerary 2025: Ultimate Travel Guide & Local Tips for the perfect start to your adventure. We’re always happy to share more tips!