Travel Tips & General Information
Enclosed is important information regarding your upcoming trip. Please take time to review this guide, including the relevant hyperlinks. For any assistance before or during the trip, contact us at +212 661 841 015. Also, pay close attention to the daily tips from our professional guides.
Entering Morocco & Returning to the U.S.
- U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to Morocco.
- Before landing, complete the Moroccan Landing Card provided by your airline.
- At Casablanca International Airport (CMN), FastTrack service is arranged. Look for a representative with a placard before passport control. They will help with:
- Expedited customs clearance
- Locating luggage
- Directing you to your driver
Important: Keep us informed of any flight changes so we can track delays and ensure a smooth transfer.
Ground Transportation
You’ll travel primarily via private charter bus, and sometimes by foot for extended walking tours. We’ll accommodate diverse needs while maintaining the group experience.
Staying Connected
- Time Zone: Morocco (GMT+1)
- Phone/Data: U.S. phones generally work. Check your provider’s international plan.
- WiFi: Available in hotels, best in lobbies and common areas.
- WhatsApp: Preferred for communication. Install it before travel.
- A private WhatsApp group will be used for updates and photo sharing.
Get Plugged In
- Voltage: 220V
- Plugs: Type C, E, F
- Bring a universal travel adapter if needed.
Money & Tipping
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
- Rate: ~1 USD = 10 MAD
- Carry small bills for daily needs
- ATMs available — notify your bank
- Cards accepted at most restaurants/stores
Tipping:
- Small tips for porters/hotel staff/taxis appreciated (MAD, USD, or EUR)
- Sahara Calling will provide tipping guidance
- Group meals include tips unless otherwise noted
- Independent dining: 10–20% customary
Language
Morocco is multilingual: Arabic, French, Amazigh (Berber), and English.
- French is widely spoken
- Guides speak English
5 Key Phrases to Know:
| Arabic Phrase | English Meaning |
|---|---|
| Salam | Hello |
| Shukran | Thank You |
| La, Shukran | No, Thank You |
| La | No |
| Inshallah | God willing |
Safety
- Watch for vehicles, animals, uneven steps
- Wear walking shoes
- Travel in groups of 3+
- If lost in the medina, follow crowds toward main roads
Weather
- Casablanca/Rabat: 40s°F night – 60s°F day
- Fes: Low 40s°F – Mid-60s°F
- Marrakech: High 40s°F – High 60s°F
Pack for hot, cool, or wet weather — tours operate rain or shine.
Attire & Dress
- Layers & walking shoes for cobblestones
- Modest clothing recommended
- Scarf provided for Hassan II Mosque
- Suggested style: Smart casual
- Extras: Sunglasses, sunblock, hat, umbrella
Food
- Spices: cumin, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon
- Dishes: tagines, couscous, salads, bread
- Expect Moroccan, European, and fusion cuisine
Drinks:
- Mint Tea: Daily ritual (sugar-free available)
- Coffee: Popular with locals
Street Food: Loved by travelers — follow guide recommendations.
Reading & Streaming
Books:
- A House in Fez – Suzanna Clarke
- Dreams of Trespass – Fatima Mernissi
- In Arabian Nights – Tahir Shah
- The Last Storytellers – Richard Hamilton
- With Open Arms – Matthew Felix
Films & Series:
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Marrakech episode with Chrissy Teigen
- Casablanca – 1942 classic
Podcasts:
- Voices of Morocco – Teen perspectives on gender and society
Emergency Contacts
- U.S. Embassy Morocco: +212 537 63 72 00 (Rabat)
- U.S. Consulate General: +212 522 64 20 00 (Casablanca)
- SOS Doctors (Urgent Care): +212 522 98 98 98