Marrakesh Travel Tips

Marrakesh Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

Before You Go

• Respect Local Customs: Morocco is a conservative country with strong Islamic roots. Be mindful of cultural differences and dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
• Learn Some Arabic Phrases: Greet locals with “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) and respond with “Wa alaykum as-salam” (and peace be upon you too). It will show your appreciation for their culture.

In the Medina (Old City)

• Dress Modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially in mosques and religious areas.
• Remove Your Shoes: When entering homes, mosques, or traditional riads, remove your shoes to avoid bringing dirt inside.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Marrakesh’s medina is bustling. Be patient, stay calm, and keep an eye on your belongings.

Interacting with Locals

• Haggling is a Game: In souks (markets) and bazaars, haggling is expected. Start with a low offer, be respectful, and don’t get aggressive.
• Use Your Right Hand: When giving or receiving something, use your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean.
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Refrain from kissing or holding hands in public, as it’s frowned upon in Moroccan culture.

Food and Drink

• Try Local Cuisine: Indulge in delicious tagines, couscous, and pastilla. Eat with your right hand, using bread to scoop up food.
• Respect Ramadan: During the holy month, refrain from eating or drinking in public during fasting hours (dawn till sunset).
• Avoid Tap Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to stay safe.

Visiting Mosques and Historical Sites

• Dress Conservatively: Cover your shoulders, chest, and knees when visiting mosques or historical sites.
• Remove Your Shoes: In some mosques, you may be asked to remove your shoes. Bring a pair of socks to wear inside.
• Respect Prayer Times: Avoid visiting mosques during prayer times (five times a day) unless you’re invited to join.

Safety and Scams

• Be Aware of Pickpocketing: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like souks and bus stations.
• Avoid Unofficial Guides: Be cautious of overly friendly locals who offer to guide you around the city. They may have ulterior motives or demand payment.
• Negotiate Taxi Fares: Agree on a price before getting into a taxi to avoid overcharging.

Environmental Awareness

• Reduce Plastic Use: Refuse single-use plastic bags, straws, and water bottles. Opt for refillable containers instead.
• Respect Local Wildlife: Don’t touch or feed animals in public spaces, including monkeys and snakes.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate Marrakesh with confidence, respect the local culture, and have a more authentic experience. Happy travels!