For the first-timer, thinking of travel to Morocco can be overwhelming and sometimes even confusing. In most cases, you’ll have no idea what to expect when you arrive. The things that I now take for granted are the things most people have questions about. This guide aims to provide you with essential information to plan your trip to Morocco in July.
Flights and Visas
From North America, there are a few flight options to Morocco. There are also low-cost carriers that connect from European hubs into Moroccan cities such as Marrakech, Fez and Tangier. Once in Morocco traveling around the country on Royal Air Maroc is possible. There is also a connection from Fez to Marrakech (and vice versa) on Air Arabia. New domestic connections are also being added regularly. Flights go to smaller Moroccan cities such as Oujda, Ouarzazate, Agadir, Rabat, or Essaouira.
I recommend booking your flights ONLY with airlines directly. Third-party sites like Expedia can make any customer service issues very difficult.
Most visitors will not need a visa to visit Morocco. You should however double-check to make sure you will not. Visas requirements depend on your passport country.
If you want to have an up-to-date idea of what the current entry requirements and restrictions are in Morocco this page from the Moroccan government is kept (somewhat) up to date with current official travel advice. In June of 2022 Morocco lifted many of the strongest regulations that were imposed. It is no longer required to have a PCR test AND vaccination. COVID vaccines are no longer required.
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Weather in July
The Moroccan climate is very similar to California from north to south. Depending on where you’re staying, the weather may vary dramatically. Summers can be very hot, well over 100F in the southern parts of the country, and even the northern parts quite warm. The Atlantic coast is much cooler in general than the interior of the country. Northern Morocco is more temperate than the Sahara Desert.
It is important to keep in mind that most Moroccan homes and riads do NOT have central heating.
Because this is such a big question, I’ve put together a page to help you no matter what month you’ll be visiting. Visit this post: The Forecast: Weather in Morocco and choose the months you’re considering a visit.
What to Pack for July
This will partly depend on what time of year you are visiting, where in the country you are going and the type of activities you have planned.
Clothes that can be layered, think cardigan sweaters, tank tops, lightweight t-shirts, or long undershirts. Pants that can be worn comfortably and worn a few times without needing washing or pressing. A good pair of sturdy walking shoes - you’ll need them! I love shoes that can be worn every day but fit with a nicer pair of pants and shirt. A light weight jacket.
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A few small gifts for hosts, friends you make along the way. Prescription medication in ORIGINAL containers - this is especially important if flying. Also make sure to include contacts, lens solution and extra glasses/contacts for the trip. If you have any allergies and use an EPI pen - carry it with you at all times.
Copies of your travel documents, flight itineraries, and where you are staying. It might also be helpful to keep a detailed list of what is in your suitcase (and receipts if you have them) in case luggage is lost, broken, or stolen. Keep one with you, one in your suitcase and leave one at home with a family member or friend.
It is possible now to find almost anything you would want or need in Morocco. That being said you should be sure to bring with you any medications or specialty products that you need or use. If you have a special diet (gluten-free/dairy free etc) you may want to bring along some snacks that can hold you over.
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Snacks/food for the airplane, esp. Reading material, a journal, Arabic or French phrase book.
Language
Moroccans speak many different languages however the lingua franca is Darija, a dialect of Arabic. It’s comparable to West African creole; a combination of several different languages (predominantly Arabic, French, Spanish and Berber). In fact it’s such a blend of languages that most Arabic speakers outside of Algeria and Tunisia can’t even understand Moroccan! Many Moroccans also speak French, though not all. In tourist cities like Marrakech, Fez, Tangier etc you will feel like people can speak every language in the world. It’s (almost) true.
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Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook. This book will come in handy especially if you find yourself off the beaten path and only speak English. We have a copy that is falling apart.
Telephones; if you have a GSM-compatible phone you can have your phone unlocked before traveling (making sure your cell phone will work abroad). Cyber cafe’s are incredibly common even in small Moroccan cities and are relatively inexpensive, though the connection may not be the high-speed quality you are accustomed to.
You will find many places have free Wifi available however having data on your phone is highly advisable. Having navigation help like Google maps will be useful, though not always pinpoint accurate. You also may want to communicate with your accommodation or tour providers.
Want more?
Accommodation: Riads
To get the full experience, plan to stay at a riad at least a few times during your time in Morocco. This authentic bed and breakfast style accommodation can be found around the country. In modern day, a Riad is a hotel or guesthouse with shared common areas and gardens that have private rooms. These are often restored palaces and mansions. The architecture is magnificent. Many are within the Medinas which make them convenient for dining and shopping. You should do your due diligence to check reviews.
Transportation
Traveling between cities in Morocco can take some time, so it’s important to account for your travel within the country. While there is public transportation it can be hard to navigate. For budget travelers train tickets are cheap, service fairly reliable, and major cities are on the route. There are several bus companies that run throughout the country.
There are two options if a road trip is more your style. Rental cars are available in major cities across Morocco. That being said they are nearly all manual transmissions and expensive to rent. If neither is the case, it’s highly advisable to take out insurance when you are renting a car. The police are quite vigilant, especially if they notice you’re not Moroccan and an inflated ticket price to pay may be likely. You also will be sharing the road with all kinds of vehicles. If you’re not ready to take the driver’s seat, grand taxis’ run throughout the country.
In most cities, there is a central gathering place for these large long-haul taxis and you can negotiate with the driver about the price for the destination you would like to go to. While negotiating make sure you let them know if you want a private taxi or not.
Finally, keep in mind that distances on a map appear closer than they really are. Driving through mountain ranges, which cut through the country, takes a lot more time than a straight stretch of road.
It is advisable to arrange transportation for your first day in Morocco. Getting from the airport to your accommodation can be confusing and frustrating. Many riads and hotels have transfer services available. Sometimes it is included as a perk of staying and other times there is a charge. Even if you feel like the price of the transfer is high, my advice is truly to book it.
Currency and Tipping
Navigating a new currency and customs related to tipping can be really overwhelming. The local currency in country is the Moroccan dirham. Tipping, is it done? How? Is it expected?
Tipping in Morocco is similar to Europe in many ways. A small tip is expected on a bill at a restaurant say 5-10%. For a service such as a guided tour a small tip is appreciated though not required. Consider the value of the service you’ve had when tipping if you do decide to tip.
Yes, there are many ATM’s just about everywhere in Morocco.. In rural areas, you’ll be more limited to options and may discover some are out of money especially on weekends. You can typically withdraw 2000 dirham in a single transaction and will be given 100 and 200 dirham bills. The largest Moroccan bill is 200 dirham. You will want to have change whenever possible.
Coins come in 0,20dh, 0,50dh, 1dh, 2dh, 5dh, and 10dh quantities. Bills as 20dh, 50dh, 100dh, and 200dh. Having smaller coins and bills is very helpful as most purchases are done in smaller quantities and vendors hate breaking 100 or 200 dirham bills.
There are currency exchanges at all airports. If you need money right away (for taxi fare etc) exchange a small amount of money upfront and then use an ATM to get more. Airport exchanges charge a high exchange fee. In the Marrakech airport, there is also an ATM outside of the immigration and baggage control before you exit the airport.
Bargaining
Morocco is a cash society and bargaining is a way of life. When you are making purchases you should be prepared for this. Whatever price they give you, cut it by 2/3. Then work from there to get to a point you both agree on. Don’t appear too interested in any one object. This really is a game! If you really don’t want something don’t start the process and walk away. If you do want it but aren’t willing to pay the final price you’ve been given walk away. Many times they’ll come after you and agree to your price.
The prices for things will vary depending on where you are geographically and in terms of a restaurant or grocery market etc.
Safety
This is a loaded question and has many different levels. The simple answer is yes, Morocco is safe.
In the post below, I dive into more specifics like different types of safety, local laws, and what to be aware of. If you’re worried about getting sick or hurt, having travel insurance is really important.
Solo travelers visiting Morocco, especially solo female travelers generally have more safety concerns. In most ways, Morocco is no different than other destinations where you need to keep your wits and be aware. Always check travel advisories for more detailed information. The US government via the State Department put out regular bulletins and advisories and most other national governments do the same. These are often worst-case scenario bulletins so do take them with some levity and consider looking at advisories from other countries’ national governments too. You may find they are quite different!
A travel health professional also may be worth consulting if you are concerned about health safety on your trip.
Stick with bottled water. In cities, you won’t get sick brushing your teeth in tap water, and if you live here chances are good you drink straight from the tap.
Food and Drink
Morocco has a wide range of food and restaurants available. There are many traditional markets as well as major grocery stores. Morocco is not a dry country. There is alcohol available - there are even wineries and breweries. That being said being drunk is highly frowned on. There are bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that serve alcohol in every large city. You also will find alcohol for sale in grocery stores like Carrefour or bottle shops.
Must-Visit Cities in Morocco
Wondering where to go in Morocco? From vibrant Medinas and lively souks to beautiful mosques and manicured gardens, each city has its own distinctive allure.
Casablanca
Casablanca isn’t the official capital of Morocco but this bustling city sure feels like it. Mohamed V Square is a bustling hub where locals gather and soak in the joyful atmosphere. The Museum of Moroccan Judaism is a unique museum showcasing the 2,000-year history of the Jewish community in Morocco.
Fes
Fes is the opposite of Casablanca: impressively ancient and historic. The Royal Palace: Although you will not be able to get inside, you will be able to admire and take pictures of the stunning seven front gates. This palace was built in the 1960’s. Jewish Cemetery: You will notice uniquely shaped white tombs on a hill. This is an expansive Jewish cemetery that was established in 1883. The tombs were freshly painted in 2019. Madrasa Bou Inania is a Muslim learning institute founded in the 14th century. Borj Nord is a fort dating back to the late 16th century that now houses the Museum of Arms.
The Medina in Fes is one of the most expansive Medinas (historic districts that have residences, shops, and markets) in the country. If you were wondering where to go in Morocco to get an authentic experience, this is it. But, I have been in markets all over the world and I found it overwhelming EVEN with a guide. So, be careful, keep your belongings close to you. At the huge Chouara Tanneries, animal skins and hides are dyed. You can’t enter the tanning pit itself but there are terraces where you can see what goes on. Watching the process is interesting but may also be disturbing for some. There is a strong smell. You can ask to sniff on mint leaves to help prevent nausea. The shopping here is amazing. There are soooooo many leather goods! You can haggle. It is part of the culture.
Merzouga
Merzouga is a small, tranquil town in the Sahara Desert. It acts as a gateway to Erg Chebbi, an expansive stretch of sand dunes. Go glamping in the Merzouga Desert and witness a starlit sky free from light pollution. Unfortunately it was cloudy when we went but we did get to see a few stars and sunset. You can also do sand boarding. We had live music-drumming around a fire while drinking wine which meant we had to dance! It was awesome. Go on a hike to the highest dune in Erg Chebbi. You can get there in about an hour, but it’s not an easy trip. See flamingos at Dayet Srji, a salt lake west of Merzouga.
Dades Valley
Nestled in the rugged Atlas Mountains is the scenic Dades Valley. The interior is stately and with the modern comforts you need. Explore all the Dades Valley has to offer, from towering cliffs to fertile gardens.
Marrakech
Marrakech is somewhat of a tourist city but doesn’t feel overly touristy at all. The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech. It is also known as “Mosque of the Booksellers”. It was originally built in 1147 but entirely rebuilt from 1158-1195. Bahia Palace is an architectural gem dating back to the 19th century. It’s an opulent palace with tranquil courtyards, lush gardens, and studded fountains. I was mesmerized. Jardin Majorelle is a lush botanical garden with groves of bamboo, dwarf palm trees, agave, and more. There’s also a museum onsite: the Berber Museum. The grounds are the former residence of Yves Saint Laurent. The “Majorelle Blue” is an official TM color and it is magnificent! Speaking of, the YSL Museum is nearby. There are exhibits of Yves Saint Laurent’s work, featuring tons of garments, accessories, sketches, photos and a gift shop.
Sample Itinerary
As you can see, we covered a lot of ground in Morocco. I curated this trip with Experience Morocco and they had positive reviews from travelers who had done this itinerary. We started in Casablanca for 1 night, spent 2 nights in Fes, 1 night Glamping in the Sahara/Merzouga, 1 night in Dades/Atlas Mountains, 3 nights in Marrakech. A total of 8 nights which included a lot of driving! It was a great way to see how diverse Morocco is but if you do not have a lot of time then I suggest spending most of it in one or two of the cities. Marrakech was my favorite.
Moroccan Cuisine
This section could be a blog post on its own! While in Morocco we ate very well! In addition, since this was a Culinary Travels food tour, while planning a trip to Morocco, I included a walking food tour in Fes, food stall visits in Marrakech and a cooking class in Marrakech.
Moroccan cuisine is aromatic and full of spices-a lot of turmeric, saffron and cumin. Some dishes tasted like curry to me. But we often had to add salt to dishes based on our American palates. They also eat a lot of BREAD!
Couscous is Morocco’s national dish. Even if you’ve had it before, don’t pass up the opportunity to try it right from the source. One of the best meals we had in Morocco in a Casbah in Dades.
Harira is a soup typically made from tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb. Tagine can refer to any dish cooked in a clay pot, usually slow-cooked chunks of lamb or beef or chicken with herbs and spices. We had this almost every day. Mostly chicken Tagine or vegetable with Couscous.
Pastilla, also called bastilla, is a savory meat pie with a poultry or seafood filling. It’s a surprisingly complex dish, with a sweetness to it, thanks to having sugar, cinnamon, and almonds in it. Zalouk is a popular spread served as a side dish. It’s made of eggplants, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, and spices, and served with a crusty bread.
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