Northern Morocco: Blue Cities & Bustling Marrakech - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the travel style for this tour?

  This tour is designed for '18-to-Thirtysomethings', focusing on cultural immersion. It's generally fast-paced, covering many sights across northern Morocco.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour group size ranges from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 14 travellers.

• Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

  Yes, this tour is specifically designed for young travellers aged 18 to 39.

• What type of accommodation is provided?

  Accommodation consists of simple hotels, usually in twin-share rooms. Please note that some hotels may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff, and shared bathroom facilities may be present. As Morocco is a developing country, you might experience quirky plumbing and occasional cold showers.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  Six breakfasts are included in the tour. Lunches and dinners are generally not included, offering you maximum flexibility to decide where and what to eat.

• What is the physical rating for this tour and what level of fitness is required?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (out of 5). Travellers should have an average level of fitness and mobility, able to walk independently, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage for short distances.

• What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

  We primarily use air-conditioned private vehicles and undertake walking tours. Please be aware that legroom in minivans might be limited, and air conditioning may not cool to very low temperatures during hot Moroccan summers (up to 50°C). It's also important to note that seatbelts may not be available in buses as it's not a legal requirement in Morocco.

• Will there be a guide accompanying the group?

  Yes, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany the group throughout the trip. Additionally, certified local city guides will be utilized for specific locations, such as the Fès medina, to provide more in-depth local knowledge.

• What is the local currency and what are the best payment methods?

  The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common, but it's advisable to carry a combination of cash (Euros, GBP, or USD can be exchanged at money exchange offices) and cards. Visa cards are widely accepted for larger purchases, though a fee usually applies. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is recommended.

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

  Tipping is customary and expected in Morocco. Your CEO will organize a 'tipping kitty' on Day 1, where everyone contributes, and this fund is used to tip local service providers for the group as a whole. This does not include your CEO, for whom a personal tip of $8-11 USD per person per day is a general guideline if you feel they did an outstanding job.

• What is the recommended dress code for visiting religious sites and generally in Morocco?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Outside of capital cities and more touristic centers, local dress is often more conservative, and we recommend loose-fitting clothes with your shoulders covered out of respect.

• What kind of weather should I expect in Morocco?

  The climate in Morocco can be very hot during the day in summer months (up to 50°C) and cold at night in the mountains during autumn, early spring, and winter (down to -6°C), with a high probability of snowfall. Most Moroccan buildings are not equipped with heating, so bringing appropriate layers for the season you are travelling is important.

• How might local holidays like Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha affect my trip?

  During Ramadan (approx. Feb 28-Mar 29, 2025, and Feb 17-Mar 19, 2026), there may be some limitations to services and schedule disruptions. Food is still available for non-Muslims. During Aid Al-Adha (approx. Jun 16-17, 2024, and Jun 6-7, 2025), most shops and restaurants may be closed, and some historical places might have altered hours. Increased cultural sensitivity is very important during these periods.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Rif Valley Mountains Hike, a Fès Medina Guided Tour (250MAD), free time for shopping in Fès Medina, visiting the Djemaa el Fna Market Square in Marrakech (free), and a Hot Air Balloon excursion in Marrakech.

• How would you describe the pace of this itinerary?

  This is a very fast-paced itinerary that covers a lot of ground in a short time. This means you can expect some early starts and long drives in the minivan to maximize sightseeing opportunities.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You can expect to stay in simple, locally-run hotels or pensions for 6 nights, typically in twin-share rooms. Note that some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff, and some accommodations may have shared bathroom facilities. Rooming requests for multi-share accommodations cannot be taken.

• What is the typical group size and age range for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 14 travellers. This tour is designed for young travellers, specifically those aged 18 to 39, under the '18-to-Thirtysomethings' travel style.

• Is there a tour guide provided?

  Yes, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) accompanies the group throughout the trip. Additionally, certified local city guides are used where specific knowledge of a place is beneficial, such as in the Fès medina.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2. An average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travellers must be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

  Travel between destinations and to/from included activities is primarily by air-conditioned private vehicle and walking. Please note that summer temperatures can reach 50°C, and the minivan's air conditioning may not cool it to home temperatures. Also, seat belts may not be legally required or present in some vehicles in Morocco.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  6 breakfasts are included. Generally, lunches and dinners are not included to offer flexibility, but your CEO can suggest local restaurants. Moroccan breakfasts are typically simple, like a croissant or sweet roll with jam and instant coffee.

• What are some optional activities available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Rif Valley Mountains Hike in Chefchaouen, a Fès Medina Guided Tour (250MAD per person), and a Hot Air Balloon excursion in Marrakech. You can also opt to visit the Spanish Mosque for sunset views in Chefchaouen or explore Djemaa el Fna Market Square in Marrakech (free).

• What is the local currency in Morocco and how can I exchange money?

  The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common but check with your bank before departure as card acceptance can vary. Euros are commonly accepted for exchange in major cities, along with GBP and USD. It's advisable to carry a combination of cash and cards.

• What are the tipping customs in Morocco?

  Tipping is customary and expected in Morocco. A tipping kitty system is used where your CEO collects a contribution from everyone at the start of the tour to tip service providers for the group. For your CEO, a personal tip of $8-11 USD per person per day is a general guideline if you felt they did an outstanding job.

• Are there any specific cultural sensitivities or dress codes I should be aware of?

  When visiting mosques and religious monuments, modest dress is required, covering shoulders and avoiding short shorts or skirts. Outside major tourist centers, local dress is more conservative, and it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered as a sign of respect. Your CEO can offer specific advice.

• How might Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha affect the tour experience?

  During Ramadan (approx. Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026), there might be limitations to services and disruptions to schedules, but tours generally operate effectively, and food is available for non-Muslims. Increased cultural sensitivity, modest dress, and avoiding eating/drinking/smoking in public out of respect are important. During Aid Al-Adha (approx. Jun. 16th-17th 2024, Jun. 6th-7th 2025), most shops and restaurants may be closed, and historical places might also be affected, with fewer staff at hotels.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?

  Yes, solo travellers are welcome. The tour is designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex.