Let’s discuss the things to do while visiting Morocco!
Morocco is a country full of wonders and surprises. The North African nation is a blend of old and new, ancient and modern, and east and west. Its rich history, incredible landscapes, vast deserts, snow-capped mountains and welcoming people make it an ideal destination for exploration or relaxation. Whether you’re going to Morocco on a short trip or an extended stay, the country will leave a lasting impression on you. To ensure you get the most out of your time there, here are some things to keep in mind before visiting Morocco.
Things to keep in mind before visiting Morocco
Learn some Moroccan Arabic
The official language of Morocco is Moroccan Arabic, so you should learn some basic phrases to communicate easily with other people there. If you know how to speak French and Spanish, it will be easy for you to understand Moroccan Arabic because they are similar to each other. You might also want to learn some common words like “Thank you” or “Hello” because they will help you in many situations while traveling around this beautiful country.
Don’t take pictures without permission
Don’t take pictures of women when visiting Morocco as it’s not allowed by law, especially if she is wearing a headscarf or hijab, because that would violate personal space and privacy rights. It is considered offensive in Moroccan culture, and you may have to face some serious trouble if caught doing this. Always try to get permission before capturing the beautiful scenery of Morocco. Otherwise, it can be hazardous, and you may be asked to delete the photos from your camera or mobile phone. This rule also applies in souks where asking before taking a picture is mandatory as they consider it an invasion of their privacy.
Respect local customs
Morocco is a Muslim country so it is necessary that you learn about their customs before traveling there. For example, while entering mosques, women are expected to cover themselves properly including headscarves and long sleeves clothing. If you’re visiting Morocco during Ramadan, be sensitive to eating and drinking in public during the day. For example, if you want to eat at a restaurant during the day, pick a big place with tourists or locals eating.
Do not do it at small local restaurants where you can make others around feel uncomfortable. This also applies to drinking alcohol at bars and lounges. Moroccans are generally very friendly people. However, being respectful of their culture will go a long way in building friendships and making your trip memorable for all the right reasons.
Travel with a group
Hiring a local guide can make your trip more exciting as they will take you to all the important places and also let you taste traditional Moroccan dishes. You may have heard that people in Morocco are very friendly but still, it’s better when you go with a group because it’s not safe for solo travellers especially women as there are many thieves in the city who can trick you and steal your valuables.
Always dress appropriately at mosques
When visiting Morocco mosques remember that you will have to remove your shoes outside the mosque so wear something easy on your feet or better yet carry a spare pair of socks with you so that you could change them when removing your shoes at the entrance. Also, avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops as these are pretty much a no-no for tourists visiting mosques here.
Know how much money you’ll need to spend
The prices in Morocco can be quite high, especially in the major tourist cities. If you’re not careful, you may find yourself spending more money than you planned. If that happens, don’t worry, because you can still enjoy a fun Moroccan vacation without breaking the bank. For instance, if you want to shop at local markets instead of going to the big department stores, know that prices will be much cheaper there.
Be aware of local holidays and events
You should always check with your travel agent or check online for details about what festivals are happening while visiting Morocco. With such a diverse culture, there are many festivals throughout Morocco’s calendar year, from ancient traditions to more contemporary celebrations. These events are common knowledge among locals and tourists alike, so it pays to take note before going anywhere near them.
