Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like?
While this of course depends on the time of year and part of the country, it is generally warm to hot. The northern coastal cities have near perfect temperature, thanks to the Mediterranean, while the southern cities bordering the desert get extremely hot in the summer. Even the winter is still rather warm, approximately 60-70 degrees, during the day. Year round, however, the temperature drops when the sun goes down. Even in the desert, during the winter, it gets so cold frost forms on the sand. Be sure to bring layers!
Speaking of layers, what should I pack?
Comfortable, low maintenance shoes and clothing. As mentioned, layers for when it gets cold at night. Definitely a pair of sunglasses. If going in the fall/winter and to the north, perhaps a small umbrella, though the chance of rain is small. Just remember that you will be on the move a lot, and you're not likely to have access to an iron everywhere.
I'm a woman. What should I wear?
Please be respectful of the culture and do not wear anything extremely tight and/or short. Pants and knee-length or longer skirts or dresses are all acceptable. If you want to wear shorter, you can add leggings/tights to avoid too much bare leg. Short sleeves are just fine. However, if you are taking a tour to the south, please plan on pants or a long skirt and long sleeves while in Rissani. They are a bit more modest, and it is best to be respectful.
What about electronics?
Morocco uses the same kind of outlets as most European countries. Be sure to bring adapters. If you have a heating device (hairdryer, straightening iron, etc.), you MUST get a converter. This is different than an adapter, because it will tone down the current from 220-240 volts to the 110-120 volts that American devices are made for. Failure to do so can damage your device or start a fire as the sparks from the excess electricity jump from the outlet (a lesson learned through experience). Most hotels have hairdryers in them. Please keep in mind that there may be a limited number of outlets, so do not count on charging your phone, camera, iPod, iPad, and Kindle every night.
Any other Dos and Don'ts?
The Moroccan people are very hospitable. If you are given tea or cookies, accept it with thanks. Refusing hospitality is considered very rude. Always save at least a little room for the fruit that comes at the end of lunch/dinner. Don't be afraid to eat like a Moroccan and use bread to eat with your hands. Be aware that at some stops, there may only be a squat toilet available. Do bring some Pepto/Immodium; while it's not a huge risk, there's always a chance that at some point, the food may disagree with you a bit. Additionally, if you get motion sick, pack some Dramamine, because the mountain roads are very winding.
What about money?
While some ATMs can give cash from American cards, it's far easier to exchange cash once you arrive. There are many places where you can do this, both in banks and standalone exchange agencies. Do not count on using your credit card, as very few places accept them. While currency of course fluctuates, the exchange rate is roughly 9 Moroccan dirhams to 1 US dollar. Haggling is by all means allowed in the markets, as you will usually get quoted a tourist price at first. Tipping is encouraged, not just for restaurant service, but for any kind of service. If you are uncertain of an amount to tip, just ask your guide.
What's with all the pictures of cats?
In Islam, the cat is the sacred animal of Mohammed. Therefore, people take care of the cats that roam the streets. Some are friendly and want attention, others just want food. Feel free to feed them!