Journeys: Morocco Highlights - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

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

  You will stay in comfortable local hotels for 8 nights, typically offering twin-share rooms with air-conditioning and private bathrooms. Breakfast is included daily. Hotels are generally located in the 'ville nouvelle' areas for higher standards. Please note that Moroccan infrastructure may sometimes feature quirky plumbing or occasional cold showers, and two-story properties may not have elevators.

• What meals are included during the trip?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. Moroccan breakfasts are usually simple, while lunches and dinners feature local staples like couscous, tagine, and brochettes. Your Expedition Leader can suggest local restaurants for other meals, which typically cost between $10-15 USD.

• How large will the tour group be?

  The maximum group size is 12 travelers, with an average of 10 participants.

• Are there any age restrictions for joining this trip?

  Travelers must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (on a scale that is not specified but implies an average level of fitness). Travelers should be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What are the main highlights of this Morocco tour?

  Key highlights include exploring ancient markets and vibrant medinas, experiencing the Sahara Desert on a thrilling 4x4 excursion, taking part in a hands-on Marrakech cooking class, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like Meknès and Volubilis, meeting Gnaoua musicians, and sharing mint tea with Amazigh (Berber) nomads.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation primarily includes private air-conditioned minivans/coaches, 4x4 vehicles in the desert, and walking tours. Please be aware that summer temperatures in Morocco can be very high, and the minivan's air conditioning may not cool to typical home temperatures. Also, seatbelts may not be equipped in all vehicles as it is not a legal requirement in Morocco.

• Who will lead the tour and are local guides used?

  The trip is led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader (Chief Experience Officer or CEO) throughout. Additionally, certified local city guides are used in specific locations to provide more specialized knowledge and enhance your experience.

• What should I know about currency and money management in Morocco?

  The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common and generally accept Cirrus and Plus system debit cards, but it's important to check with your bank beforehand and carry more than one card. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, though a fee usually applies. Euros, GBP, and USD can be exchanged in major cities. It's recommended to carry a combination of cash and cards, and have an emergency fund of at least an additional USD $200.

• What are the customs for dress code and cultural sensitivity?

  When visiting mosques and religious monuments, modest dress is required, meaning shoulders should be covered, and short shorts or skirts should be avoided. In general, outside of major tourist centers, local dress is more conservative, so loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended for both men and women out of respect. Cultural sensitivity is especially important during Ramadan and Aid Al-Adha, where public eating, drinking, or smoking should be avoided out of respect for those fasting.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD $200,000. Proof of insurance will be required by your leader. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities are available. In Fez, you can explore Ville Nouvelle (free). In Ouarzazate, there's an optional Amazigh (Berber) Herbalist Lesson (free). In Marrakech, options include visiting Musée de Marrakech (50MAD), El Badi Palace (70MAD), a Medina Walk and Spice Shop, Jardins Majorelle (200MAD), or exploring Djemaa el Fna Market Square (free).

• Can solo travelers expect to pay an extra cost for accommodation?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, so solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex and typically do not incur a single supplement for shared rooms. However, if you book the 'My Own Room' service, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• How does tipping work on this tour?

  Tipping is customary in Morocco. A 'tipping kitty' system is used, where your Expedition Leader collects a contribution from everyone at the start of the tour to cover tips for service providers (excluding the Expedition Leader). Your Expedition Leader will advise the amount, which can be paid in USD or local currency (MAD). Tipping your Expedition Leader at the end of the trip is also customary and appreciated, with a guideline of $8-11 USD per person per day.

• What specific health precautions should I take?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Morocco. You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any required inoculations before departure. Carrying a first aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements is recommended, especially since you will be in remote areas away from medical facilities at times. Expedition Leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What should I know about safety and security?

  In major cities, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings. It is recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis for nighttime excursions. Using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home is advised. Hotels often provide safety deposit boxes. Your Expedition Leader has the authority to amend the itinerary due to safety concerns and will accompany all included activities. Any optional activities undertaken in free time are at your own judgment regarding safety.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. There may be times when you need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• Will the tour operate during Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha?

  Yes, the tour generally operates effectively during Ramadan and Aid Al-Adha. However, there may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules. It's crucial to display increased cultural sensitivity during these times by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect for those who are fasting.