Question 1

Who can join a Moroccan Escapes tour?

Accepted Answer

If you are over eighteen, you are welcome to join a tour with us, regardless of where you are located.

We don’t have an upper age limit but some of our tours are fairly active, involving walking on uneven surfaces and some stairs, so please make sure you are comfortable with the demands of the itinerary before booking. If in doubt, please ask!

Our trekking trips, and other adventure tours, require a higher level of fitness. We are happy to discuss this with you.

Question 2

What type of accommodation do you use?

Accepted Answer

Most of our accommodation in towns is in traditional riads (guest houses), equivalent to 3 or 4 star standard and centrally located.On trekking trips, accommodation may be a mixture of camping, in individual tents, or a shared room in a family guesthouse (gite).If you would like us to arrange a private tour for you, just let us know your preferred style and standard of accommodation and we will do the rest.Check out my Blog for more detailed comments on accommodation in Morocco.

Question 3

What type of transport do you use?

Accepted Answer

For small groups of six or less (including any escort), transport will be in a Mercedes Vito car or equivalent.

For more than six passengers, you will travel in an air-conditioned minibus.

Both are driven by an experienced, English-speaking driver.

Question 4

Is tipping common in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is commonplace and expected in Morocco, for good service.

If you are satisfied with the service you receive from your driver, who will be with you throughout the tour, and for any local city guides, please consider acknowledging this with a tip.

Gratuities in restaurants and hotels are also much appreciated.

It is useful to keep some Moroccan Dirhams handy for tipping porters, restaurant and other hotel staff.

If you would like us to provide guidance on what might be an appropriate amounts to tip, before your tour, please let us know.

Question 5

What is the best way to manage money in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

ATMs are available in airports and in towns and cities. Morocco continues to rely heavily on cash. Although many shops and restaurants will accept credit cards, many smaller outlets will only take cash.  Until 2025, the Moroccan Dirham was a closed currency and could not be obtained outside Morocco. That is changing but often the exchange rate offered outside Morocco  is poor, compared to the rate available in Morocco. Foreign exchange booths in the major tourist centres will exchange a range of currencies, but not the Australian dollar. Other major currencies, including the Euro, USD, GBP and CAD can be easily exchangd.   Some outlets will accept cash Euros.

Question 6

When is the best time to visit Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Many visitors prefer to visit Morocco between February and early June or between late September and November.  Although the weather varies according to the seasons and the location,  it is generally cooler in the north and hotter in the south. Tourism continues throughout the year,  but keep in mind that it can be very hot in summer (mid-June to mid-September) with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees.  In the winter months (December to February) there are snowfalls in the High Atlas and, from time to time, roads may be closed if they become impassable.  However, tourists numbers are lower and visitor attractions less busy.We also suggest being aware of the dates of the holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast and do not drink, even water,  between sunrise and sunset.  Cafes and restaurants and other visitor sites may operate on reduced hours. Please speak to us about the best time to travel for the type of tour you are considering.Check out my blog for more detailed comments on when to visit Morocco.

Question 7

When is payment due?

Accepted Answer

A deposit  is required to secure your place on a tour. The amount varies from tour to tour - check the itinerary for the deposit amount for the tour you'd like to join.  If you are travellnig independently, you will be notified of the deposit amount at the time of booking. Deposits are non-refundable, unless we cancel the tour. See our Terms and Conditions for more details.Payment of the balance of the tour cost is due 120 days before departure.We accept payment by bank transfer, and also by Visa, Mastercard and American Express.

Question 8

Do you book flights and transfers?

Accepted Answer

Moroccan Escapes is a specialist tour business, focused on arranging all land arrangements in Morocco. We do not book flights. You may wish to book your own flights, or use your regular travel agent. Or, we can suggest a travel agent to assist with your flights.For each of our tours we will recommend the best arrival  airport and flight. Our driver will meet this flight and the transfer from the arrival airport to your first night’s accommodation is included in the tour cost, as long as you are arriving at the recommended time.  If you wish to arrive on a different flight, we can arrange an airport transfer for you, at additional cost, or you can choose to meet us at the hotel. Please make sure your flight arrival allows enough time for you to join the tour before it departs. You are welcome to arrive a day or two before the tour starts and guests travelling on long-haul flights often do so. We will happily arrange accommodation for you for any extra nights, and a private airport transfer to your hotel (at additional cost).

Question 9

Do I need a visa?

Accepted Answer

Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your return to your home country at the end of the tour.

Currently visitors to Morocco, travelling on an Australian passport, do not need a visa for stays of less than 90 days.  However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change and you should check the up to date position on the Australian government Smartraveller website: 
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/morocco

You must have comprehensive travel insurance in place to join a Moroccan Escapes tour.

Question 10

What if I have a medical condition?

Accepted Answer

If you have a medical condition that may affect any aspect of your participation in the tour, including mobility issues, please discuss this with us before booking.

We recommend consulting your GP or travel doctor for advice in relation to any vaccinations you may require or any other health-related matters.

You should ensure that you have with you sufficient supplies of any essential medications for the duration of the trip, including any unexpected delays.

The Australian government Smartraveller website contains useful information on health advice for Morocco. 
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/morocco

Question 11

Is Morocco a safe destination?

Accepted Answer

Morocco is generally a safe destination if you use common sense and respect local laws and customs.
The Australian government's current advice is to exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco - the same advisory as is currently in place for the UK and France.  I have always felt safe travelling in Morocco, including three weeks of independent travel with my fifteen year old daughter.   However, as with many international destinations, you should be aware of local laws and customs and general annoyances.

Pickpockets operate in crowded tourist hubs, so carry only the cash that you need,  keep it out of sight and avoid flaunting expensive watches and jewellery.

If shopping in the souks (markets) be prepared for aggressive and often persistent haggling over prices. Don't feel compelled to make a purchase  - just say 'thank you' and walk away.

Especially in the larger medinas, locals may offer to guide you to your hotel or riad, show you the tanneries, an amazing carpet shop, etc. It is best to firmly say 'no thank you' and walk away. If you do engage, be aware that you will be expected to pay for these 'guiding' services.

Morocco is an Islamic country and it is important to respect local customs in relation to dress and behaviour in public.  Women should dress conservatively, ideally covering your shoulders and avoiding skirts above the knee.  Arms and legs should be fully covered if visiting a mosque and a scarf to cover your hair is advisable.

LGBTQIA+ travellers may face additional challenges travelling in Morocco and should avoid any public displays of affection.

If you have any particular safety concerns, please ask.

Question 12

What is the weather like in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

The answer is - it depends! It depends on the time of year and where you'll be in Morocco. Summers (mid June to mid September) are very hot everywhere, with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees centigrade in the south and the Sahara. You can expect it to be cooler along the coast and in the mountains. In winter ( December to February), there is snow in the High Atlas Mountains and the weather can be cold and sometimes wet, especailly in the north and at higher elevations. The most popular months for sight-seeing are March to May and September to November. Check out my blog for more detailed comments on when to visit Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions