Marrakesh Travel Tips

Marrakesh Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

  1. Dress Code: Respect local customs and cover up appropriately. Women should wear loose-fitting clothes that cover the arms and legs, while men should avoid wearing shorts in public places. Remember to remove your shoes before entering mosques.

  2. Mosque Etiquette: Non-Muslims are allowed to visit mosques as tourists but not to pray. Always ask for permission before entering a mosque and follow the dress code (women should wear a headscarf). Avoid visiting during prayer times.

  3. Haggling: Bargaining is expected in Marrakesh’s souks (markets), but be respectful and fair. Start by offering half of the initial price and work your way up. Never accept the first price given.

  4. Tipping: Tipping is customary in Morocco. rounding up the bill or tipping 10% in restaurants is appreciated. For guides, tour operators, and hotel staff, a small tip (around $2-5 per day) is appropriate.

  5. Respecting Local Culture: Avoid discussing politics or religion with locals. Be sensitive to their customs and beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

  6. Street Harassment: Unfortunately, some tourists may experience street harassment in Marrakesh. Keep your belongings close and avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas.

  7. Photography: Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo, especially in the medina where people live. Respect local privacy.

  8. Scams: Be aware of common tourist scams such as overpriced items, fake guides, or offers of “free” services that come with a hidden cost. Trust your instincts and never share personal information with strangers.

  9. Respecting the Environment: Do not litter and be mindful of your impact on the environment. Many accommodation options in Marrakesh are eco-friendly, so consider staying at one of these properties to reduce your carbon footprint.

  10. Learning Basic Arabic Phrases: Learning a few basic phrases in Arabic will help you navigate and interact with locals more effectively. A simple “Assalamu alaikum” (Peace be upon you) can go a long way.