Surviving Marrakech: 18 Tips and Facts for First Time Visitors

Find out everything you need to know to visit Marrakech, Morocco successfully, from known facts to helpful tips.

If you’re trying to figure out what you need to know as a first time visitor to Marrakech, you’re in the right place. We’ll cover all of the need to know details about the city that will help you navigate the city and have an enjoyable visit.

After all, the culture is completely different than that of the United States where I live, and it can certainly shock your system by overwhelming all of your senses. That being said, it is one of the most magical places I’ve visited and full heartedly think Marrakech is worth a visit.

Let’s get going!

Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Arriving in Marrakech

To make arriving in Morocco easy, there’s a few things first time visitors to Marrakech should know ahead of time.

Flying into Marrakech from Abroad

If you’re arriving directly to Marrakech from an international destination, you may need to be able to prove onward travel. Remember to book a round-trip ticket, or two one-way tickets for proof of onward travel. Keep these travel details handy during the Immigration process.

Getting to Your Marrakech Hotel from the Airport

After a long flight, the last thing you want to do is be overwhelmed with taxi drivers while jet lagged and trying to get used to the new currency. I highly recommend arranging transportation from the airport to your hotel through your accommodations.

Part of why is that if you’re staying in the medina, which I totally recommend, taxis can’t go in and you’re on your own to navigate the maze with your luggage.

Our hotel (riad) had arranged pick-up for us, and this included a driver who dropped us near an entrance to the Medina and a porter who led us on foot the rest of the way. With all of the narrow alleys twisting and turning through the Medina ending with turning down a dark alley, turning again, and one last turn to the door of our riad… we would 100% have been lost without them.

Alternatively, you can book transport from the airport online. This way yoou can choose from group pricing or per person pricing.

Local Transportation

Once you’re in Marrakech, taxis are a common means of transportation. It’s important to negotiate the fare before getting in, as many taxis may not use meters. Grand taxis (typically white) are typically used for longer distances between cities, while petit taxis (typically beige or tan) are for shorter, intra-city trips.

Petit Taxis: These are smaller, city taxis that are usually painted beige or tan in Marrakech. Often they also have a roof sign indicating “Petit Taxi.” These are designed for smaller groups, typically accommodating up to three passengers. You’ll find them readily available on the streets of Marrakech, especially in popular areas, near hotels, and transportation hubs.

Grand Taxis: These are larger taxis intended for inter-city travel. They are commonly white in Marrakech and are capable of carrying six passengers or more. Since they are shared, you may not have the entire vehicle to yourself. To find one, you may need to go to specific taxi stations or hubs to find grand taxis for inter-city travel.

Basics about Marrakech

Take a look at the basics of Marrakech. These facts and tips will help you navigate the city successfully and safely, right from the start.

Language

Arabic is the official language in Marrakech, but French is also widely spoken. While many people in tourist areas understand English, learning basic Arabic or French phrases can enhance your experience and make interactions more enjoyable.

Helpful Arabic Phrases

Hello: As-salamu alaykum
- Response: Wa alaykum as-salam
Thank you: Shukran
Yes: Na’am
No: La
Please: Min fadlik
Excuse me / I’m sorry: A’diraa
Good morning: Sabah al-khayr
Good afternoon/evening: Masa’ al-khayr
Goodbye: Wada’an or Ila al-liqaa
How much is this?: Kam hada?
Where is…?: Ayna…

Helpful French Phrases

Hello: Bonjour
Thank you: Merci
Yes: Oui
No: Non
Please: S’il vous plaît (Formal) / S’il te plaît (Informal)
Excuse me / I’m sorry: Excusez-moi (Formal) / Pardon (Informal)
Good morning: Bonjour
Good afternoon/evening: Bonsoir
Goodbye: Au revoir
How much is this?: Combien ça coûte?
Where is…?: Où est…?

Weather in Marrakech

Marrakech experiences hot summers and cooler winters. Summers can be extremely hot, so carry sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. Winters can be cool, especially at night, so bring layers. Check the weather forecast before your trip to pack accordingly.

For more input on when to visit Marrakech, check out the best time of year to visit Morocco.

Clothing

Locals dress modestly in Morocco. Therefore, it’s recommended that you do too, especially women. It’s advisable to wear loose-fitting, conservative clothing that covers shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites or more traditional areas.

While modest dress will keep you under the radar, in tourist areas like the Medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa, you’ll see a mix of styles. You’ll see tourists wearing everything from shorts and t-shirts to sundresses. However, it’s respectful to dress modestly, particularly when entering religious sites.

Also, opt for comfortable and breathable footwear. The streets in the medina are often cobblestone. Leave the heels at home and take sandals or comfortable walking shoes instead.

Learn more about what to wear and not wear in Morocco.

Safety Precautions

Marrakech is generally safe, but it’s essential to take standard precautions. For example, don’t take anything with you that you don’t want pickpocketed. In the crowded souks and central square it’s easy for it to happen. Take a picture, put your camera away in a secure spot.

Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of your surroundings. Emergency numbers are 19 for police and 15 for medical assistance.

Check out these additional safety tips for solo female travelers to Morocco.

Medina Navigation

The medina can be a labyrinth, so it’s helpful to have a map or GPS on your phone. Expect to get lost in the Medina – Map or no map. Landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque and Jemaa el-Fnaa square can serve as orientation points.

If you are a female and need help or directions, do not ask a man or boy, always ask a woman or if need be, a shopkeeper who is busy. Otherwise they will demand money or a tip for their service. Consider hiring a local guide for the first day to help you navigate the intricate streets.

Money in Marrakech

Budgeting for any trip can be challenging, but knowing about the currency, what it’s worth, and how to use it are the basics you’ll want to know ahead of time.

Currency in Marrakech

The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 dirhams, as well as 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 centimes. Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200 dirhams.

ATMs in Marrakech

ATMs are widely available in urban areas of Morocco, and many of them accept international credit and debit cards. Currency exchange services are also available at banks, exchange offices, and in major tourist areas.

Credit Cards in Marrakech

While credit cards are accepted in many places, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and when visiting markets (souks) where cash is often preferred.

Tipping in Marrakech

Tipping is a common practice in Morocco. In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip, usually around 5-10% of the bill. Additionally, it’s common to tip service providers such as guides, drivers, and hotel staff.

Here are some guidelines to help give you an idea of how to tip in Marrakech. Remember, there is no obligation. Often it is based on your satisfaction of the service provided.

Restaurant Service Charges: Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, typically around 10%. If a service charge is not included, consider leaving a tip of around 5-10% of the total bill.

Cafes and Small Eateries: While tipping is not mandatory in smaller eateries, leaving some change or rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Hotel Porters: It’s common to tip hotel porters who assist with carrying luggage. A tip of around 5-10 dirhams per bag is customary.

Hotel Housekeeping: Leaving a small tip for housekeeping staff, such as 10-20 dirhams per day, is a nice gesture.

Petit Taxis: Tipping petit taxi drivers is not a strict requirement, but rounding up the fare or adding a small amount is customary.

Grand Taxis: Tipping grand taxi drivers is less common as they often have fixed rates for longer distances. However, rounding up or adding a small tip is appreciated.

Half-Day or Full-Day Tour Guides: For guided tours, a tip of around 50-100 dirhams per person is customary, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

Specialized Tour Guides: If you hire a specialized guide, such as for a historical site, consider tipping around 20-50 dirhams per person.

Hammam Attendants: If you go to a spa or hammam, a tip of around 10-20 dirhams is customary for the attendants.

Street Performers: While not obligatory, it’s common to tip street performers if you enjoy their performance. A small amount, like 10-20 dirhams, is suitable.

Photographers: If someone takes your photo, especially in popular tourist areas, they might expect a small tip, such as 10-20 dirhams.

Bargaining in Souks

The souks are all narrow covered streets with shops on both sides with goods stacked and hung from the floor to the ceiling. They all would like you to stop and look, after all “Looking is free!”. Just remember that bargaining is customary in the souks.

Start by offering a price significantly lower than the asking price and gradually work your way up. They often more than double the price to start with. Keep the atmosphere friendly and be prepared to compromise. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price doesn’t suit you.

If you know you want to buy something in the souks, you can price it out first at the set price shop, Ensemble Artisanal, right outside of the Medina to have a point of reference.

Culture in Marrakech

Being a completely different culture than the United States, there are a few key cultural items that help you blend in and respect the locals. This includes simply knowing what to expect and is expected of you in return!

Greetings

Greetings are an essential part of Moroccan culture. Using phrases like “Salaam Alaikum” when entering shops or meeting people is polite. When someone greets you, respond with “Wa Alaikum Salaam.” Being respectful and courteous is key to positive interactions.

Respect Local Customs

Non-Muslims are typically not allowed to enter mosques in Morocco. However, some mosques allow visitors at specific times outside of prayer. Respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home.

Jemaa el-Fna – The Main Square in Marrakech

Jemaa el-Fna is quite the attraction. Early on in the day it’s quieter with orange juice stands and the shops on the outskirts open, but as evening falls you can see a number of interesting things. Here are some things you may encounter later in the evening.

Snake charmers which you can watch or take pictures of (for a fee).

Performing monkeys which you can hold (for a fee).

“Water men” who dress up in a funny hat and costume but sell glasses of water to locals. They also try to put their hats on tourists for pictures (for a fee).

Ladies painting henna on anyone who wants it. Cost varies by lady and design but you can bargain this down too. A friend had both hands done for 75MAD. It is also suggested to have a slightly older (experienced) lady do it as it will be better done. As with everything here, agree on the price first.

Men dressed up as women dancing, drum circles, traditional dancing, etc. these often get a crowd surrounding them but of course have people collecting money for watching or taking pictures.

Vendors selling watches, oils, jewelry, etc. often walking around, sometimes with stands set up.

Food stalls and more food stalls! As you walk through they will all try to get you to sit and eat. These were the places we were suggested to avoid, but it’s interesting to walk through!

Food in Marrakech

Local food and drink are a big part of travel. Marrakech is no different. You’ll want to try the local cuisine while keeping your stomach as safe from foodborne illness as possible. Here are some helpful things to know.

Local Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine is diverse and delicious. Tagines, couscous, and pastillas are must-try dishes. When dining in local establishments, consider trying a traditional Moroccan mint tea. Be cautious with street food to avoid potential foodborne illnesses; opt for freshly cooked items.

We were given the advise to not eat at the stands in the central square. Most of the food comes from a different restaurant or cafe to be served there so it may not be the freshest and can more easily upset your stomach.

Caution with Tap Water

While tap water is generally safe for washing and brushing teeth, it’s advisable to drink bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues. Be cautious with ice in drinks and opt for bottled beverages.

Explore More of Morocco

First time visitors to Marrakech have a lot to learn – some before they land and some on the ground. Hopefully these tips for Marrakech have been helpful in letting you know what to expect. Still have questions or concerns? Add them to the comments and I’ll get back to you!

In the meantime, here are some additional resources that may be helpful. Best of luck with your Marrakech trip!

Surviving Marrakech: 18 Tips and Facts for First Time Visitors