Morocco: Marrakech and the Coast - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What unique cultural and food experiences are included in this tour?

  The tour includes a Tanjia cooking demonstration in Marrakech, learning Moroccan bread making at a local bakery, and a cooking class with a local family in Sidi Kaouki. You'll also get to explore food vendors in the Marrakech Medina and dine at a souk in Agadir.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for 4 nights and traditional Riads for 3 nights. Please note that some properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What are the main highlights of the tour's itinerary?

  Highlights include a full-day excursion to the Ouzoud oasis and waterfall for a swim and lunch, sandboarding on the dunes near Sidi Kaouki, visiting the historic walled city of Essaouira, and exploring the ceramic market of Safi. You'll also have free time to enjoy the beaches and lagoon in Oualidia.

• Are there any optional activities I can choose to do?

  Yes, optional activities in Marrakech include visiting Musée de Marrakech, Djemaa El Fna Market Square Walk, Koubba Ba’adiyn, El Badi Palace, and Jardins Majorelle. In Oualidia, you can visit the OSTREA Oyster Farm.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially at religious sites?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders and avoiding short shorts or skirts. Generally, loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered are recommended throughout the trip out of respect for local culture.

• What should I know about managing money and currency exchange on this tour?

  The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common and widely accept Cirrus, Plus, and Visa cards. The Euro is the most commonly accepted foreign currency for exchange. It's advisable to carry a combination of cash (EUR, GBP, or USD) and cards, and to have an emergency fund of at least USD $200.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex, without an extra single supplement.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  The tour will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip. The CEO's role is to coordinate and manage the group, provide general knowledge of Morocco, and offer suggestions for activities and local eateries. Certified local city guides are also used for specific sites to enhance your experience.

• What kind of activities and cultural experiences are included in the Morocco: Marrakech and the Coast tour?

  This adventure is packed with cultural experiences including a tagine-making demonstration, exploring food vendors in the Medina, visiting historical sites like Jardin Secret and Bahia Palace, a bread-making introduction, a full-day excursion to Ouzoud oasis and waterfall, sandboarding, a cooking class and tea with a local family in Sidi Kaouki, visiting the walled city of Essaouira, and exploring the ceramic market of Safi.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• What type of accommodation will be provided on this tour?

  Accommodation for the tour consists of 4 nights in hotels and 3 nights in traditional Riads.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  The tour will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), who will coordinate and manage the group, provide general knowledge about Morocco, and offer suggestions for activities and local dining. Certified local city guides are also utilized for specific knowledge.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size is a maximum of 14 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Are there any additional costs for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip without incurring a single supplement.

• What is the local currency and what are the recommendations for money and credit cards?

  The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common, but it's advisable to check with your bank before departure and carry more than one card. Visa cards are widely accepted for larger purchases. A combination of cash (Euros, GBP, or USD are commonly exchanged) and cards is recommended.

• What is the policy on tipping during the tour?

  Tipping is customary in Morocco. Your CEO will collect a group tipping kitty at the start of the tour to cover tips for local service providers (excluding the CEO). Tipping your CEO at the end of the trip is also appreciated, with a guideline of $8-11 USD per person per day.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. While there are no specific health requirements for this trip, carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medications is recommended, as medical facilities can be remote. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What is the physical activity level of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially at religious sites?

  When visiting mosques and religious monuments, modest attire that covers your shoulders, knees, and avoids short shorts or skirts is required. In less tourist-centric areas, local dress is generally more conservative, and wearing loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders is recommended out of respect. Your CEO can offer more specific advice.

• How might cultural holidays like Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha affect the tour?

  During these holidays, services and schedules may be limited, with many shops, restaurants, and historical places potentially closed. Travelers are asked to display increased cultural sensitivity by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and by avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours (for Ramadan).

• What are some of the optional activities available in Marrakech and Oualidia?

  In Marrakech, optional activities include visiting the Musée de Marrakech, Djemaa El Fna Market Square Walk, Koubba Ba’adiyn, El Badi Palace, and Jardins Majorelle. In Oualidia, you can choose to visit the OSTREA Oyster Farm.

• What is Planeterra's role in the tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities benefit from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, ensuring donations create opportunities for local people.

• Are there laundry facilities available on the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What are the safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  Travelers should consult their government's travel advice and use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home, and utilize hotel safety deposit boxes. A luggage lock is recommended. The group leader can adjust the itinerary for safety. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities. In cities at night, travel in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should only be undertaken with a guide.

• What are the visa and entry 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 and apply well in advance, as requirements can change without warning.