
Morocco Travel Guide
Mountains, desert, surf – Morocco has it all.
Overview
Morocco fires up every sense: spice aromas, afternoon heat, drum beats at night. Lose yourself in souks, Sahara skies or mountain colors.
Diversity is huge: surf the Atlantic, hike high passes, ride through desert plains or even go skiing in season. North sometimes feels Mediterranean, the South deeply North African.
It can be loud and intense – but if you lean in, it’s magic.
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Location & landscapes
Northwest Africa – close to Europe yet culturally a different world. Atlantic coast, monumental Atlas and the infinite Sahara create striking contrasts.
Safety
I felt safe at all times. Souk vendors hustle and pickpockets exist in big medinas – stay polite but firm.
Women may feel more comfortable dressing modestly – not a rule, just respectful.
Police checkpoints are everywhere when driving – we were waved through most. A quick document look and you’re off.
Best time
- Mar–May & Sep–Nov: Pleasant temps.
- Summer: Extremely hot inland/desert.
- Autumn: My pick – Atlas in warm tones, desert not too hot.
Practical info
Currency & Language
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) – 1 € ≈ 10–11 MAD.
- Money: Withdraw locally or exchange on-site.
- Language: Arabic & French; English works in hostels. A little French helps a lot.
Visa
Many nationalities (incl. EU) get 90 days visa-free. Passport valid 6+ months.
SIM & Internet
Cheap prepaid (10–20 GB under €10) from Maroc Telecom, Orange or Inwi – fast & reliable.
Getting around
- Flights: Low-cost (Ryanair, EasyJet) to Marrakech, Agadir, Fes.
- Trains: Comfortable & cheap.
- Buses: CTM & Supratours – safe & AC.
- Grand taxis: Shared intercity taxis.
- Car rental: Freedom for Atlas & desert routes – roads better than expected.
Top places
Tip: Rooftop + mint tea + sunset = magic.
Food & drinks
Culinary picks
- Tajine: Slow-cooked meat & veggies.
- Couscous: Friday classic, fluffy and filling.
- Harira: Hearty soup (esp. Ramadan).
- Msemen: Layered breakfast flatbread.
- Mint tea: Everywhere – embrace it.
- Harbor fish: (Essaouira) fresh & cheap.

Budget
Cheap if you want, but easy to scale up for comfort.
Daily costs
- Daily budget: from €30
- Hostel bed: €7–15
- Riad room: €20–30
- Street food: €1–3
- Restaurant: €5–10
Extras
- Desert tour (3 days): €90–120
- Includes food & lodging
- Always bargain!
Experiences

🤩 Unforgettable moments
- Camel trek into Sahara dunes
- Sandboarding at sunset
- Surf session in Taghazout
- Motorbike through Atlas passes
- Rooftop sunset in Marrakech
- Night in a Berber village
- Hammam & tea with locals
Conclusion
Morocco isn’t a checklist country – you experience it. Desert, mountains, coast, cities, villages, food & culture just hours from Europe.
I love it especially in winter: affordable, diverse, friendly once off the tourist track. One of my top backpacking picks.
🌟 Want more Morocco inspiration?
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On the blog I share personal tips & experiences across Morocco. Explore other backpacking destinations like Thailand, Colombia or the Philippines!
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