For many travelers, Morocco is a country that elicits strong emotions – it’s a place that can be either a love or hate experience.
Morocco beckons backpackers with its promise to overwhelm your senses, rekindling that adventurous spirit that compelled you to leave home with just a backpack.
Before embarking on your Moroccan adventure, it’s essential to be well-prepared.
This comprehensive guide will help you plan your journey, offering insights into the best places to visit, unique experiences, cost-saving strategies, and advice on cultural nuances to avoid any faux pas.
Table of Contents
Before You Go
Packing for Morocco is an art. The country’s culture and climate dictate that you should bring conservative, loose-fitted clothing. This not only respects local traditions but also helps you stay comfortable in Morocco’s varying temperatures.
Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and layers. With Morocco’s abundant outdoor attractions, you’ll spend much of your time outside, and if you plan to camp in the desert, be prepared for chilly nights.
The ideal time to visit Morocco is during the spring or fall. The weather is milder, though it can vary depending on the region you choose. Keep an eye on the calendar for Ramadan, an intriguing cultural experience.
While it doesn’t directly affect travelers and non-Muslims, you’ll notice a shift in the atmosphere. Respect local customs, like refraining from smoking or drinking in public, and be considerate with your photography. During Ramadan, many restaurants close down, and everything operates at a slower pace.
Where to Stay
For budget-conscious backpackers, Morocco offers a gem in the form of “riads.” These home-style accommodations come in various styles, from casual to extravagant.
Seek out the budget-friendly riads that are easy to find in every city and can often be booked at short notice. Look for clean options near main streets, and those offering extras like breakfast.
Choosing a riad allows you to save money on food while immersing yourself in authentic Moroccan culture from the moment you wake up.
Tips to Save Your Budget
Morocco is a budget-friendly destination, with daily expenses ranging from $40 to $75 USD, depending on your choices regarding luxuries and dining out. Grand and petit taxis, tours, and gear rentals are all reasonably priced, and tipping is a polite and expected gesture for most services.
Take a Break from Booze
Alcohol is one of the more expensive indulgences in Morocco, and it’s not commonly consumed in public. The high prices reflect its scarcity and the quality of drinks. Consider sipping on mint tea instead to save both money and cultural sensitivity.
Negotiate like a Master
Haggling is an integral part of shopping in Morocco’s souks. In bustling marketplaces like Marrakech and Fez, expect high-pressure sales tactics aimed at tourists. Be persistent and ready to walk away if the price doesn’t suit you. Avoid immediate purchases, as prices are often inflated for travelers. The same rule applies to negotiating taxi fares; agree on the fare before embarking, as prices are not fixed.
Enjoy Street Food
Morocco boasts a diverse and delicious cuisine. To savor its authenticity, dine where the locals do. Opt for quick lunches at street food carts, where fragrant Moroccan cooking wafts through the air.
Expect couscous, kebabs, barbecued veggies, meats, and the national favorite, tagine. These street food options are not only scrumptious but also very affordable. Seek out vendors near medinas and local markets for the best prices.
Stay Smart to Fraud
While Morocco is generally safe, it’s essential to be vigilant about common travel scams, from pickpockets to fake tour guides. Dress inconspicuously or purchase locally made clothing at a market stall to avoid standing out as a tourist. Stay alert and avoid dark alleyways when alone. Be assertive if you encounter harassment. If a local offers assistance, be aware they may expect payment for even minor help. Keep your valuables secure and hidden in bags with zippers to deter potential thieves.
Unforgettable Experiences
Backpacking in Morocco offers a wealth of exciting opportunities. The country’s vast open spaces and natural landscapes present endless activities and sights to explore. Make use of the affordable transportation to hop between cities and immerse yourself in Morocco’s mesmerizing diversity.
- Hiking the Atlas Mountains: Discover the Atlas Mountains through hiking, a favored way to explore their rugged beauty, small villages, rivers, and wildlife.
- Spend a Night in the Desert: The Sahara Desert offers a surreal experience. Ride a camel during the day, then unwind at a Bedouin camp under a starlit sky.
- Lounge in a Hammam: Visit a local bathhouse, known as a hammam, for an authentic, budget-friendly experience. Enjoy a serene bath separated by gender.
- Visit the Blue City: Chefchaouen’s picturesque blue buildings and streets offer a unique atmosphere. Wander through the alleyways, explore the medinas, and enjoy hiking in the surrounding landscapes.
- Try Surfing: Moroccan waters provide excellent surfing conditions year-round. It’s perfect for learning during the summer months, and busy beaches offer opportunities to make new friends. Taghazout, Agadir, and Mirleft are some favorite surfing spots.
- Visit Essaouira: This seaside town is a serene escape from bustling cities. Enjoy the docks, savor seafood, and for Game of Thrones fans, recognize the old city walls used as a filming location.
- Wander the Souks and Medinas: Each major city and town in Morocco boasts a unique medina. These historic areas are filled with markets, restaurants, and residential neighborhoods, offering an enthralling maze to explore. Favorites include those in Marrakech, Fez, Tangier, and Asilah.
The beauty of backpacking in Morocco is the ease of getting around, allowing you to hop from one place to the next. Whether you arrive with a plan or let the road guide you, Morocco will leave you with unforgettable memories.