Explore Morocco: The North & The Sahara - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the "Explore Morocco: The North & The Sahara" tour?

  The tour highlights include wandering through the famous 'Blue City' of Chefchaouen, participating in a guided Rif Mountain hike with a goat cheese making experience, enjoying a dinner of regional specialities in Fés, hiking or riding a camel in the Sahara, sleeping under the stars in a desert camp, and taking a 4x4 jeep excursion to an oasis for sunset.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in local hotels for 8 nights and desert camps for 2 nights. The local hotels vary in standard and some may not have elevators or air-conditioning, but they are locally run with traditional character and in central locations. The desert camp experience includes one night at a developed camp with a restaurant, toilet facilities, and simple showers, and two nights at a more basic camp with pop-up tents and portable toilets, where showers will not be available.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners. For other meals, flexibility is offered to choose where, what, and with whom to eat. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be able to suggest local restaurants.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 14 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes private vehicles (a 16-seater minivan), walking, and 4x4 vehicles, particularly for the desert portions of the trip. Please note that some travel days in the minivan can be long.

• How does tipping work in Morocco on this tour?

  Tipping is customary in Morocco. To simplify this, your CEO will collect a contribution from everyone at the start of the tour to form a 'tipping kitty' for group services like restaurant staff, hotel personnel, and drivers. Your CEO will advise on the amount on Day 1. Tipping your CEO for outstanding service is also appreciated, with a general guideline of $8-11 USD per person per day.

• What is the local currency and what are the best ways to manage money during the trip?

  The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common, but it's recommended to check with your bank before departure and carry multiple cards. Visa cards are widely accepted for larger purchases, often with a fee. Euros, GBP, and USD can be exchanged in major cities. A combination of cash and cards is advised, along with an emergency fund of at least USD $200.

• Are there any specific dress code requirements for visitors?

  Yes, when visiting mosques and other religious sites, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required. Outside of major tourist centers, local dress tends to be more conservative, so both men and women are recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered out of respect. Your CEO can offer more specific guidance.

• What are the age requirements for joining this trip?

  Travelers must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian aged 21 or older, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an option for solo travelers to have their own room?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, meaning solo travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share rooms with another traveler of the same sex at no extra cost. However, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all hotel nights.

• What should I know about health and safety on this tour?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for any required inoculations and up-to-date medical travel information. Carrying a first-aid kit and hand sanitizers is recommended. Be aware that the trip may venture into remote areas where medical facilities are not readily accessible. For general safety, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and keep valuables secure in a neck wallet or money belt. When exploring cities at night, it's advisable to stay in small groups and use taxis. Travel insurance with medical expenses and emergency evacuation coverage (minimum USD 200,000) is compulsory.

• How does the tour account for major local holidays like Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha?

  During Ramadan, there might be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules, though tours generally operate effectively and food is available for non-Muslims. Increased cultural sensitivity is important during this time, including wearing loose-fitting clothes covering knees and shoulders, and avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public. During Aid Al-Adha, most shops and restaurants may be closed, and some historical sites might also be affected, with fewer staff at hotels and less crowded streets.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour. You are responsible for booking your own flights.