GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

 THERE’S REALLY NO BAD TIME. JUST DIFFERENT MOROCCOS.

Spring and autumn are popular for good reason, with comfortable temperatures for exploring cities, mountains and the desert.

Summer can be extremely hot, particularly in southern Morocco and the Sahara, while winter brings cooler days and surprisingly chilly nights — especially in the desert and mountains.

Coming to the Sahara? Pack for the temperature to change. A hot afternoon can become a very cool evening once the sun disappears.

 COMFORTABLE + RESPECTFUL WINS.

Morocco is diverse and accustomed to visitors, but it is also a predominantly Muslim country. You don’t need an entirely new wardrobe — comfortable, relatively modest clothing is a good rule of thumb.

Loose layers are particularly useful. They protect you from the sun, work well as temperatures change and are comfortable for travelling.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, and something warmer for desert evenings.

And yes, leave a little room in your suitcase. You may discover something considerably better to wear once you get here.

THE USEFUL STUFF

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light, breathable layers
• Sweater or jacket for cool evenings
• Hat + sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Small day bag
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal medications
• Portable charger
• Camera/phone with plenty of storage
• A scarf or wrap — surprisingly useful
• A little extra room in your luggage for whatever follows you home

DESERT TIP: Sand and wheeled suitcases are not natural allies. Pack accordingly!

 YES, YOU’LL PROBABLY WANT SOME CASH.

Morocco’s currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). It is a closed currency and you can only get it in Morocco.

Cards are increasingly accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger businesses, but cash remains very useful for markets, smaller shops, cafés and rural areas. ATMs are widely available in larger towns and cities but it is recommended you purchase currency once you are here, 

And in the souks? Bargaining is part of the experience. Be friendly, have fun with it and don’t feel obligated to buy something simply because you asked the price. (Hamid comes in handy here!)

 COME HUNGRY.

Tagines, couscous, grilled meats, fresh bread, olives, pastries, mint tea — eating is very much part of experiencing Morocco.

If you have allergies, dietary restrictions or foods you avoid, tell us before your trip so Hamid can help plan accordingly.

For drinking water, bottled or properly treated water is the safest choice for travellers who aren’t accustomed to the local supply.

 Not at all. Use one as your starting point, change it, or build something completely different.

 Tell us when and where you’re arriving and we’ll work out the best way to begin your journey.

 Within reason, absolutely. That’s one of the advantages of travelling privately. If you fall in love with somewhere or want to adjust the pace, talk to Hamid.

 Yes. We can help adjust the pace and activities depending on the ages and interests of your travellers

 No. You can travel Morocco perfectly well without speaking either — although learning shukran (thank you) never hurts.

You’ll find Wi-Fi in many hotels, riads, cafés and other accommodations, but connectivity can be less predictable in remote areas. Consider that permission to look up occasionally.an answer to this item.