Morocco: Historic Cities & Sand Dunes of the Sahara - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this Morocco tour?

  This tour offers a rich experience of Morocco's history, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Highlights include exploring the Roman ruins of Volubilis, wandering the dreamy blue streets of Chefchaouen, immersing yourself in the lively medinas of Fes and Marrakech, riding a camel across the golden dunes of the Sahara, and enjoying hands-on, community-led experiences like a homemade lunch at the Zarbiat Achbarou Cooperative and a Medfouna cooking class.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation on this tour includes 9 nights in local hotels or pensions, 1 night in a desert camp, and 1 night in a lodge. The local hotels and pensions offer traditional character and are centrally located, though they may vary in standard and facilities, potentially without elevators, air-conditioning, or consistent hot water. Expect quirky plumbing and the odd cold shower as Morocco is a developing country.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners. Moroccan breakfasts are typically simple, often a croissant or sweet roll with jam and instant coffee. Lunches and dinners often feature local staples like couscous, tagine, and brochette. There will be opportunities to explore diverse dining options independently, as not all meals are included, offering flexibility.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

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

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• What forms of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Transportation on this tour will include private vehicles (16-seater minivans), 4x4s for desert exploration, walking tours, and camel rides across the sand dunes. Be aware that the minivan travel can involve long days and potentially cramped legroom, and air conditioning may struggle with very high summer temperatures (up to 50 Celsius).

• What currency should I use in Morocco and what are the options for money exchange?

  The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common and generally accept Cirrus and Plus system cards. Visa credit cards are widely accepted, but primarily for larger purchases, and a fee usually applies. Euros are the most commonly accepted foreign currency for exchange, along with GBP and USD. It is advisable to use a combination of cash (Euro/GBP or USD) and cards, and to check with your bank before departure regarding card usage.

• Do I need an emergency fund for unexpected circumstances?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, for use in unforeseen circumstances such as route changes due to natural disasters.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage/personal effects is also strongly recommended.

• What is the tipping policy in Morocco and for the tour staff?

  Tipping is customary and expected in Morocco, as it supplements local wages. A tipping kitty system is used where your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will collect a contribution at the start of the tour to tip service providers for the group. This does not include tipping your CEO, for whom $8-11 USD per person per day is a general guideline if you feel they provided outstanding service.

• What should solo travelers know about accommodation on this tour?

  Solo travellers are generally paired in shared accommodation (twin or multi-share) with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement fee for this arrangement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who helps with travel logistics, provides information, suggests activities, and recommends local eateries. Local guides are also used at specific sites to provide more in-depth knowledge.

• What are the visa and passport requirements for Morocco?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements based on your nationality well before departure, as rules can change without warning.

• Are there any specific health considerations for travel in Morocco?

  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. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and personal medical requirements. Our leaders are prohibited from administering medication.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a free Ville Nouvelle Exploration in Fes and a Hot Air Balloon excursion in Marrakech. These are not part of the main itinerary and you should use your judgment when selecting them.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour contribute to local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by connecting local communities to tourism. This tour includes a 'G for Good Moment' visit to the Zarbiat Achbarou Cooperative near Marrakech, a women's cooperative where you can learn about their project, participate in a hands-on weaving experience, and enjoy a homemade lunch, directly supporting their efforts.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. It is also suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What should I know about safety and security while on this trip?

  Your safety is a priority. It's highly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. When exploring during free time, especially at night, it's advised to stay in small groups and use taxis. Your CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary if safety concerns arise.

• What are the main highlights of this Morocco tour?

  The main highlights include seeing the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis on a guided visit, exploring Morocco’s Blue City with a CEO-led tour through Chefchaouen’s vibrant streets, immersing yourself in the Fes medina on a guided tour with a traditional meal, riding a camel across the Sahara’s red dunes to a desert camp, and joining local women for a homemade lunch at a community cooperative near Marrakech.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 9 nights in hotels, 1 night in a desert camp, and 1 night in a lodge. Expect to stay in locally-run hotels or pensions with traditional character, often in central locations. Please note that infrastructure may vary, and quirky plumbing or cold showers can occur.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners.

• What kind of food can I expect in Morocco?

  Moroccan cuisine is world-famous. Staples include couscous (grain topped with stew), tagine (named after the pot it's cooked in), and brochette (BBQ meat skewers). Other delicious options are pastilla (a sweet pastry with a savory pigeon filling) and harira (a chickpea-based soup). Fresh orange juice is highly recommended.

• What are the age requirements for this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years old, and the maximum age is 100 years old. Minors travelling with a guardian must be over 21.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

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

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, 4x4s, walking, and camels for the desert experience.

• What should I know about the transportation conditions?

  There is a lot of fast-paced travel with some long days in a 16-seater minivan. Legroom might be smaller than you are accustomed to. During summer months (November-March), temperatures in Morocco can easily reach 50°C, and the minivan's air conditioning system may not be able to cool the bus to typical home temperatures, so some discomfort may be experienced.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects is strongly recommended.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers, and will I get my own room?

  Solo travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, without an additional single supplement cost. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Is tipping customary in Morocco, and how is it handled on this tour?

  Tipping is a way of life in Morocco and is customary for small service providers. To make it easy, your CEO will collect a contribution at the start of the tour for a 'tipping kitty' to cover services for the group. For your CEO, a guideline of $8-11 USD per person per day is appreciated.

• What is the local currency, and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common, but it's advisable to travel with a combination of cash (Euros, GBP, or USD are commonly accepted for exchange) and cards, as card acceptance or ATM functionality is not always guaranteed. Credit card purchases may incur a fee.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used in rare circumstances outside our control that require a change to the planned route.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who provides information, suggestions, and recommendations. Additionally, local guides are used where specific knowledge will enhance the enjoyment of the places visited.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for when you may need to do your own laundry.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include a free 'Ville Nouvelle Exploration' in Fes and a 'Hot Air Balloon Marrakech' excursion in Marrakech.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water. You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations well before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements is recommended, as some parts of the trip are in remote areas away from medical facilities.

• What should I know about safety and security on this trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice before departure and use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. While generally safe during the day, it's advised to stay in small groups and use taxis at night in major cities. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns and will accompany all included activities, but optional activities undertaken in free time are at your own judgment.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling to Morocco?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Morocco. Inoculations may be required for the country visited; consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Be aware that we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time, and leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. Assess your ability to cope with our style of travel and contact travel@gadventures.com for clarification.

• How can I subscribe to the tour operator's email newsletter?

  You can subscribe to our adventure travel e-newsletter for travel news, trip information, interesting stories, and contests at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/. You can also sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn about our foundation's investments in global communities at http://letsgo.gadventures.com/Planeterra-Consumers_Planeterra-Newsletter-Signup-Page.html.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All our group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). Their aim is to make your travels hassle-free and help you have the best trip possible, providing information on places, suggesting activities, recommending local eateries, and introducing you to local friends. While not traditional guides, they have broad general knowledge. We also use local guides for more specific knowledge where it enhances the experience.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 14 travellers, with an average of 10.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  Please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has seen evidence of travel insurance. At a minimum, coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation (minimum USD200,000) is required. We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage. Review your itinerary for adventure activities that might require extra coverage.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there's a choice of eating options, to offer flexibility and budgeting control. Moroccan breakfasts are typically simple (croissant/sweet roll with jam, instant coffee). Lunches and dinners, featuring Moroccan cuisine like couscous, tagine, and brochette, usually cost between 10-15 USD per meal.

• Should I be tipping on my trip in Morocco?

  Tipping is customary and expected in Morocco to supplement low salaries. The tour operator uses a tipping kitty system; your CEO will collect a contribution (USD or local currency MAD) at the start of the tour to tip service providers for the group. If services are unsatisfactory, inform your CEO for a deduction. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with $8-11 USD per person per day as a general guideline.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include a Ville Nouvelle Exploration in Fes (free) and a Hot Air Balloon excursion in Marrakech.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include a guided visit to the impressive ruins of Volubilis, a CEO-led tour of Chefchaouen’s blue streets, a guided tour of the Fes medina with a traditional riad meal, a camel ride across the Sahara’s red dunes to a desert camp, and a homemade lunch with local women at a community cooperative near Marrakech.

• What are the modes of transportation used on this trip?

  Transportation on this trip includes private vehicles, 4x4s, walking, and camels. Please note that there will be long travel days in a 16-seater minivan, and legroom may be limited for taller passengers. Air conditioning is available, but in summer temperatures can reach 50°C, and the system may not cool to home comfort levels.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  Check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Hotels often have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your group leader (CEO) can amend the itinerary for safety. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. Cities are generally safe during the day, but at night, travel in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should be accompanied by a guide.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses, empowering Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protecting the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering operating costs, so 100% of your donation directly supports their projects. You can contribute $1/day through the Dollar-a-day Program.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You can expect to stay in local hotels or pensions (9 nights), a desert camp (1 night), and a lodge (1 night). The hotels will vary in standard; some may lack elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff but offer local character and central locations. We generally stay in "ville nouvelle" areas rather than ancient medinas due to hotel standards and comfort, especially for women at night. Expect quirks in plumbing and potentially cold showers, as Morocco is a developing country.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. While marijuana and opium are part of local culture in some areas, they are not acceptable for travellers. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is strictly against our philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or using paid sex workers.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page (https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/lgbtq-travel/) for useful resources and tools like Equaldex to help you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or consult your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements vary by nationality, and citizens of certain countries may require additional documents. We strongly recommend applying for your visa well in advance.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  For dire needs, first call the tour operator's Local Representative (if listed) or Local Office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Regional Office Emergency Contact Number: +212 662 312 072. Arrival or Departure Transfer Emergency Phone Number: +212 661 861 950. If local contact fails, call our Sales team at: Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100; UK: 0344 272 0000; Germany: 0800 365 1000; Australia: 1 300 796 618; New Zealand: 0800 333 307; Outside these regions: +1 416 260 0999.

• Will I get my own room on this trip?

  If you have booked the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Otherwise, single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common, with Cirrus and Plus system cards widely accepted, but it's important to check with your bank before departure and travel with more than one card. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards, generally useful for larger purchases, and a fee usually applies. Euros are the most commonly accepted foreign currency and can be exchanged along with GBP and USD in major cities. Do not rely solely on cards; a combination of cash (Euro/GBP or USD) and cards is best. Refer to www.xe.com for daily exchange rates.