Morocco Northern Discovery - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the 'Morocco Northern Discovery' tour about?

  This seven-day journey explores the highlights of northern Morocco, starting in Tangier and ending in Casablanca. You'll visit bustling souks in Tetouane, the blue streets of Chefchaouen, the lively Fés medina, Meknes' historical landmarks, and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, all while experiencing authentic Moroccan cuisine.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3.

• What is the travel style for this tour?

  The travel style for this tour is 'Classic'.

• Are there age restrictions for this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum number of travellers on this tour is 14.

• What is included in the tour price?

  Included are a Welcome Meeting with your CEO and group, a local living experience with a Rif Mountain Hike & Goat Cheese Making in Chefchaouen, orientation walks in Tangier and Chefchaouen, city visits to Tétouan and Ouazzane, a guided visit to the Fés Medina, a tour of Volubulis, a visit to Meknes, a full-day Casablanca tour, free time in Fés, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is in hotels for 6 nights.

• What should I expect from the hotels and pensions?

  You can expect to stay in local hotels or pensions, which may vary in standard and facilities. Some might not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff, but they are locally-run, often with traditional character, and centrally located. Please note that Morocco's infrastructure may lead to quirky plumbing and occasional cold showers.

• Which meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travellers do not have to pay more as group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• If I book 'My Own Room', will I have a single room every night?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will lead the group throughout the tour.

• What are the modes of transportation used during the trip?

  The modes of transportation include private vehicle and walking.

• What are some of the main highlights or activities on this tour?

  Highlights include a walking tour of Tetouan's landmarks, a CEO-guided walking tour of Chefchaouen's blue streets, a guided Rif Mountain hike followed by goat cheese making with a local family, a dinner of regional specialties in Fés, a guided tour of the Fés Medina, and a guided day walking tour of Casablanca.

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

  There are no optional activities specified for this trip.

• What should I know about traveling in the winter months (November to February)?

  If you are traveling to Morocco between November and February, winter weather conditions are common, so it's recommended to pack warmer clothing for colder temperatures.

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

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders and avoiding short shorts or skirts. In less touristic areas, local dress is more conservative, so loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended for both men and women. Your CEO can offer more specific advice.

• How will we travel between destinations, and what should I expect from the minivan?

  There will be fast-paced travel with some long travel days in a 16-seater minivan. With a full group, every seat will be used, and legroom may be smaller than some are used to. Minivans have air conditioning, but during summer, when temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius, the system may not cool the bus to typical home temperatures, so some discomfort may be experienced.

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

  The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common and accept Cirrus and Plus cards, but it's advisable to check with your bank and carry more than one card. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, mainly for larger purchases, and a fee usually applies. Euros are the most commonly accepted foreign currency, and you can exchange Euros, GBP, and USD at money exchange offices in major cities. A combination of cash (Euro/GBP or USD) and cards is best. For daily exchange rates, refer to www.xe.com.

• Are there laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal laundry.

• What are the general safety tips and free-time guidelines for this tour?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Safety deposit boxes are available at many hotels. Your group leader may amend the itinerary for safety. During free time, use good judgment when selecting activities, as they are not part of the itinerary and the tour operator makes no representations about their safety. In major cities, it is recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis at night. Water-based activities should only be undertaken with a guide.

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

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, for information on safety and security specific to your adventure.

• Are there any specific safety considerations for the itinerary?

  Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas that are safer than others. It is important to use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for baggage allowances and check-in online to avoid airport delays.

• What emergency funds do I need access to on this trip?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Tipping is customary and expected in Morocco. A tipping kitty system is used where your CEO will collect a contribution from the group at the start to tip service providers as a whole (excluding the CEO). You can pay in USD or local currency (MAD). The CEO can advise on the amount. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with $8-11 USD per person per day suggested as a guideline.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before traveling?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Morocco. While there are no specific health requirements, protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio is recommended. Consult your travel doctor before departure. Carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements. Note that the trip includes high altitude travel (over 8,000ft/2,440m), and while most adapt, altitude sickness can occur regardless of fitness or age; consult your physician for preparation.

• What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects are strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers all included adventure activities. If using credit card insurance, provide proof of trip purchase with a credit card in your name and contact your bank for details.

• What is the local climate, electricity, languages, capital, ethnic groups, and religion in Morocco?

  The climate is Mediterranean along the coast, becoming more extreme inland. Winters (Oct-Mar) have cold nights and pleasant days; summers (Apr-Sep) start moderate but can be extremely hot from mid-June. Electricity is 220V, 50Hz, with two-prong rounded plugs. Arabic is the official language, with Amazigh dialects spoken by 40%. French is the unofficial second language, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The capital is Rabat. Principal ethnic groups are 30% Arab, 60% Amazigh. Islam is the official state religion, with almost the entire population being Sunni Muslim.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses empower Indigenous people and women, provide youth employment, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of donations go directly to Planeterra projects.