Marrakech
The buzzing heart of Morocco — souks, palaces, and the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Going Morocco? Explore it First!
Practical, first-hand guides to the Sahara, the Atlas Mountains, and the medinas — written from Marrakech, not assembled from someone else's listicle.
A Quick Intro to Morocco
New to Morocco? Here's the short version before you dive into the guides.
The People
Moroccans are famous for being warm and welcoming. Don't be surprised if a shopkeeper invites you in for mint tea before you've bought a single thing — that's just how it works here.
The Language
Arabic and Berber (Amazigh) are the official languages, and French is widely spoken too. In tourist areas you'll get by just fine with English, but a friendly "salam" or "shukran" (thank you) goes a long way.
The Currency
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. You can't buy it before you arrive, so plan to grab cash at the airport or a local ATM. Cards work in bigger hotels and shops, but cash is still king in the souks.
The Nature
Morocco packs a lot into one country: snowy peaks in the Atlas Mountains, golden dunes in the Sahara, and beaches along two coastlines. You can genuinely ski and see camels in the same week.
Popular Destinations
From red-walled cities to blue villages and golden dunes — here's where most travelers start.
Fes
Home to the world's oldest continuously used medina and centuries of history.
Chefchaouen
The famous blue city tucked into the Rif Mountains — Morocco's most photographed streets.
Merzouga
Your gateway to the Sahara — camel treks, desert camps, and endless golden dunes.
Essaouira
A laid-back coastal town with sea breezes, fresh seafood, and a historic port.
Casablanca
Morocco's modern economic hub, home to the stunning Hassan II Mosque.
Plan Your Trip
The practical basics to sort out before you land.
Visa
Find out if you need a visa and how long you can stay.
Best Time to Visit
When to go depending on the region and season.
Transportation
Trains, buses, grand taxis, and getting between cities.
Budget Guide
What a trip to Morocco actually costs, day to day.
Safety
Practical, level-headed safety tips for travelers.
Internet & SIM Cards
Staying connected with a local eSIM or SIM card.
Money & Currency
Using the Dirham, cash vs. cards, and ATMs.
Things to Do
A taste of the experiences that make a Morocco trip unforgettable.
Desert Tours
Multi-day trips into the Sahara, from Merzouga to Zagora.
Camel Rides
Watch the sunset from the back of a camel over the dunes.
Hiking
Trek through the Atlas Mountains, including Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak.
Surfing
Ride the Atlantic swells at Taghazout and Essaouira.
Beaches
Relax along Morocco's Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
Cooking Classes
Learn to make tagine and couscous from local cooks.
Hammams
Try a traditional Moroccan bath and scrub for deep relaxation.
Featured Itineraries
Ready-made routes to help you decide how long to stay and where to go.
3 Days
A quick taste of Marrakech and the nearby Atlas Mountains.
5 Days
Marrakech, the desert, and back — a classic short loop.
7 Days
Imperial cities plus a proper Sahara detour.
10 Days
A well-rounded loop covering cities, desert, and coast.
2 Weeks
The full Morocco experience, at an unrushed pace.
Where to Stay
Explore hotels and places to stay across Morocco on the interactive map below.
Moroccan Food
A cuisine worth traveling for on its own — here's where to start.
Tagine
Slow-cooked stews named after the clay pot they're made in.
Couscous
The traditional Friday family meal, steamed and served with vegetables.
Pastilla
A sweet-and-savory pastry, traditionally filled with pigeon or chicken.
Harira
A hearty tomato and lentil soup, especially popular during Ramadan.
Mint Tea
Morocco's signature drink — sweet, strong, and poured from a height.
Street Food
From grilled skewers to msemen, the best bites are often on the street.
Travel Tips
Small things that make a real difference on the ground.
Local Customs
Etiquette and everyday customs worth knowing before you go.
Tipping
Who to tip, how much, and when it's expected.
Packing List
What to actually bring, by season and region.
Language
Key Arabic and French phrases that go a long way.
Weather
What to expect month to month, region by region.
Emergency Information
Useful numbers and what to do if something goes wrong.
About GoingMorocco
GoingMorocco is a travel guide built from real experience on the ground in Morocco, not recycled listicles.
Our mission is simple: help you plan a trip that actually matches how Morocco really is — practical, detailed, and honest.
Every guide is written and checked by people who've actually been there, so you can plan with confidence instead of guesswork.
Flights
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Handicrafts & Products
Buying Handmade Moroccan Rugs: What to Look for
Moroccan rugs make a beautiful addition to any home. Each one is woven by hand, often by a woman in a small Atlas Mountain village or in a cooperative workshop in Fez or Marrakech. As a Moroccan, I grew up around these rugs, and I still see new buyers ask the same questions: Is this rug real? Will it suit my room? And how do I avoid getting tricked when buying from thousands of miles away? This guide answers those questions with practical advice you can use today. Why Online Moroccan Rug...
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Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga: Which Is Better
Both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga offer a real Sahara experience, but they are very different. This guide compares them side by side so you can choose the one that is right for you.
11 min read
Going Morocco
Hidden Gems in Morocco Most Tourists Miss
Morocco's famous sights, the Sahara dunes, the mosques of Marrakech, the busy souks, and the blue streets of Chefchaouen, are well known around the world. The Moroccan National Tourist Office covers these well. But once you go beyond the famous spots, you find a side of the country that most tourists miss completely. As a Moroccan, I have visited most of the places on this list myself, and they are worth the detour. Exploring these spots gives you a quieter, more authentic side of Morocco:...
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Going Morocco
Explore Moroccan Culture by Regions
Morocco has different cultures in each region. This guide helps you understand what to expect and what to do in Morocco, region by region.
13 min read
Going Morocco
Marrakech Airport Transfers: Book Private Drivers Easily
Arriving in a new country can feel confusing, especially after a long flight. In Morocco, and especially in Marrakech, airport transfers help you avoid stress, negotiate prices, or search for taxis outside the airport. Booking a transfer in advance means your driver is already waiting for you, often with your name on a sign, ready to take you directly to your riad or hotel. For more official travel inspiration, check out the Moroccan National Tourist Office. As a Moroccan who has met family...
7 min read
Going Morocco
Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort: Complete Guide & Review
Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort is a good 5-star hotel located in the tourist area of Agadir, close to the beach. It is known for its mix of Moroccan design and modern comfort. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about this hotel, including rooms, facilities, location, and what to expect during your stay. Agadir has grown into one of Morocco's most popular beach destinations. As a local, I have watched Agadir grow into one of the country's busiest beach destinations over...
9 min read
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Morocco Travel: Quick Questions
The stuff most first-time visitors ask us before they go.
Do I need a visa to visit Morocco?
If you're from the US, UK, EU, Canada, or Australia, no — you can stay up to 90 days without a visa. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your trip. Rules can change, so double check with your local Moroccan embassy before you book.
Is Morocco safe to visit?
Yes, overall Morocco is a safe country for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Like any busy destination, keep an eye on your bag in crowded souks and use official taxis or transport apps, and you'll be fine.
What language do people speak in Morocco?
Arabic and Berber (Amazigh) are the official languages, and French is spoken almost everywhere too. In touristy spots like Marrakech and Fez, you'll find plenty of English as well.
What currency should I bring?
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the only currency used day-to-day, and you can't buy it before you arrive. Bring Euros, US Dollars, or British Pounds in cash and exchange them at the airport or a local bank, or just pull dirhams straight from an ATM.
Is Morocco safe for solo female travelers?
Many women travel solo in Morocco and have a great time. You may get more stares or comments than at home, especially in busy medinas — dressing modestly and walking with confidence helps a lot. Avoid empty alleys at night, same as you would anywhere.
When is the best time to visit Morocco?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the sweet spot — warm days, cool nights, and comfortable temperatures almost everywhere. Summer can be brutally hot inland (think 40°C+ in Marrakech), though the coast stays cooler.
Do I need to dress conservatively?
Morocco is fairly relaxed compared to some neighboring countries, but it's still respectful to cover your shoulders and knees in cities and medinas, especially for women. Swimwear is totally fine at pools and beaches.
Should I haggle when shopping in the souks?
Yes — haggling is expected and even part of the fun. Prices aren't fixed in most souks. A common approach: start well below the first price you're quoted, stay friendly, and meet somewhere in the middle.