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Morocco is Not as Cheap as You Think

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“Wow, Morocco is more expensive than I thought, I must be getting ripped off!” 

“I always thought Morocco was way cheaper than Europe.” 

“This costs way too much for Morocco.”

Every combination of these phrases plus many, many more are things that I have repeatedly heard since moving to Morocco. They’re also commonly heard in the tourism industry. I decided to write this post in hopes that people who are visiting might understand what is the actual cost of things in Morocco.

Nine out of ten times there is a huge discrepancy between what things cost and what people think they cost. 

Don’t get me wrong, there are still deals to be had however Morocco today is not how it was ten years ago – or even five years ago. Many people have told me they expected Morocco to be priced similar to southeast Asia – this is very far from the truth. Prices in Morocco are very similar to what you would pay in many parts of Europe (especially southern Europe). In fact I’ve found eastern Europe is actually quite a bit less expensive than Morocco. The price of living here has gone up and the price of doing business has gone up in a huge way. Note these are in Marrakech, other cities may vary slightly. Rural areas will likely be considerably less.

I am giving prices in US dollars as it is an easy to understand measure.

Food and Drink

  • 1 kilogram of lamb raw: $10+ (prepared $15+)
  • 1 kilogram of apples in season: $1
  • Dinner for a family of four at a mid-range restaurant: $40
  • 1 bottle of Moroccan wine: $25
  • 1 liter of soda: $1.25
  • Dinner for 2 at a luxury restaurant: $75-$150

Accommodation and Transportation

  • Hostel Room: $15
  • Mid Range Riad/Hotel: $40-75
  • Luxury Riad/Hotel: $125-200
  • Apartment Rental: $50-80
  • Daily Car Rental: $30 compact up to $150+ for an SUV daily
  • Daily Price for Car with Driver: $40

Attractions and Excursions

  • Museum Admission: $2-6
  • Full day guided tour: $35
  • Full day guided tour: $60+
  • Full day excursion outside city: $100-$250 total
  • Cooking Class: $25-75 per person

Why you’re asking do I give two prices for guided tours. If you would like to take the cheaper option I can’t almost guarantee you will spend a large chunk of your time shopping – whether you want to or not. Guides make their money through commission. There’s nothing wrong with this per say but if you’d rather do something else, pay for a better guide who will respect your wishes. It’s worth it – trust me.

Monthly Salaries

  • Average salary public school teacher: $400
  • Average salary police officer: $400-$500
  • Average salary doctor: $1000
  • Average salary tour guide: $600
  • Average salary laborer: $200

Just as a general figure the average salary for Moroccans in Morocco is about $10,000 A YEAR. I estimated the other salaries as they depend on level of service, time in position, and any additional work done outside the regular office job. For many expats living in Morocco salary can vary drastically.

Does this mean you shouldn’t come? No, you absolutely should come and visit – but be prepared for the reality of what things cost. Don’t expect a 5 star experience for a 2 star price tag. I’ve found it’s really helpful when people have a realistic understanding before arriving.

This is also good to keep in mind when you find yourself negotiating the price of things. For example that $50 handmade leather backpack? A leather craftsmen can make 3 or 4 a day tops. His costs are immediately used up when he purchases the materials to make the bag. While a few dollars won’t make a big deal to you, it will to him. A few dollars can pay for a meal, or pay the school fees for his kids. Really consider this when you’re purchasing things.

There are still deals to be found in Morocco!

Check out my guide to seeing Marrakech on a budget and cheap meals to eat in Morocco for some ideas.

Did any of these prices surprise you?

Morocco Isn't as Cheap as You Think.1

 

Is Morocco Safe to Visit?

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Everyday I get many emails from readers. Sometimes they just want to contact me privately, and not leave a public comment. Sometimes they want extra tips on a recipe I’ve shared. But one of the top questions I get, almost on a daily basis is, “is it safe to travel to Morocco?”

There are so many layers and levels to this question. When I posed it I immediately thought of general safety and the threat of a terror attack. It’s on everyone’s mind and so let’s just get the elephant out of the room.

Is Morocco Safe?

YES!

In many assessments released by governments around the world Morocco is regularly labeled “more safe” than European countries such as Spain or France. I live in Marrakech, probably the most touristy city in the country. I regularly fly in and out of the country. I keep abreast of Moroccan and foreign news outlets as well as talking with regular people about the situation in the country. I am not saying you shouldn’t keep aware of what is happening but don’t let a perceived fear keep you from experiencing something truly wonderful.

A Street in Marrakech: Is Morocco Safe?

But here’s my general assessment. There is no where in this world that is “safe”.  Bad things can happen everywhere. I have not, and will not change any of my travel plans out of fear. Just because something happens in Tunisia or France don’t draw the conclusion neighboring countries are unsafe – or even that those countries themselves are inherently unsafe.  I was just in Turkey and it was completely safe even though a massive civil war is raging in neighboring Syria and Iraq, another neighbor has been in flames for years. As my oldest son says “bad things can happen anytime. When it’s my time, it’s my time. I don’t want the bad guys to stop us from living our life, because then they win.” (Pretty wise for an 11 year-old if you ask me!)

Tips to keep safe:

  • Register with your country’s program for foreign travelers so that they know where you are should something happen.
  • Leave a copy of your passport and your travel plans at home with someone so they know where you are.
  • Have enough money on a credit card or in a bank account should something happen to you.
  • Consider enrolling in a travel insurance program. Be sure to look into what their policies are for issues like evacuations. We used World Nomads on our last trip to Thailand.
  • Keep time spent in large crowds to a minimum, when at all possible.

Is it safe for solo women?

Yes it is safe, but you might face some issues. I really hate to admit this but it’s a sad reality. Large cities will be the toughest for a woman alone, but also offer the most security so it’s a balance. So this list is going to be practical info for solo women. You might not like what I say, you might think it’s sexist or “wrong” – that’s fine. I live here, I don’t like that this is how things are right now but it is.

  • Dress conservatively. This won’t stop harassment but it will cut it down. Please, please don’t be shocked if you get severe verbal harassment when you’re wearing short shorts and a crop top. Just don’t do it.
  • Meet other travelers. Traveling alone is great and maybe there are things you enjoy doing yourself, that’s cool. But don’t count out meeting other cool people on the road and hanging out or site-seeing together. You’ll have a different experience and there’s safety in numbers.
  • You’re going to be harassed and cat called. It is a rare female traveler who never faces this. The degree of this is different depending on the individual and their own perceptions.
  • Ignore them. Really if people hassle you just ignore them. You might feel rude doing this. Don’t.
  • Carry yourself with confidence. I firmly believe that the energy you put out is what is reflected back. If you’re terrified and skittish, chances are you’re going to feel more negative energy coming towards you. Keep your head up, stay confident and be strong. It’s amazing what a different experience you’ll have.
  • Read about other experiences and tips. Here are a few more resources to help;

Are the airports secure?

Many people feel Moroccan airports are unsecure. I fly in and out of Moroccan airports 4-6 times a month. Security is different. At times it might feel lax but don’t be put off because it’s not the same as security in the US or Europe. The Moroccan government has more information about you when you enter Morocco than you might be aware of. They know who is coming in and going out of Morocco. They do not mess around when there is a security concern. If there is one thing Morocco takes very seriously it is security. Truthfully as a foreigner you’re much more cared for and a greater concern for the country. So while the procedure is different, don’t think different = bad.

Marrakech Souk: Is Marrakech Safe?

How do you handle an aggressive situation?

If you face a hostile situation, act as you would at home. Seriously. If you get cornered into a visit to the tannery and money is demanded (just an fyi don’t get cornered into this – just say no and keep walking) give something to get out of the situation and leave. Then threaten to call the police. Be firm, loud, and aggressive back. If you’re in a street when something like this happens, knock on the closest door. I’m confident whoever lives in the house will help or the person making demands will run off. I think having a working cell phone is a must and threaten to call the police – or call them if you need to. They don’t take kindly to foreigners being harassed.

Important numbers:

  • Police in cities 19
  • Police in rural areas 177
  • Fire and Ambulance 15

In the event of a major emergency is there an exit strategy?

It is worth inquiring with your national government about the policy and procedures in place to evacuate their citizens from a country if something were to happen. Every country will be different. That being said don’t leave it up to your government to figure this out. You should have an idea in place. When we travel we keep the number and address of our embassy in that country at hand. I do a quick look to see how to get there But, unless there is a major catastrophe this is irrelevant. Should something happen whether it’s a terrorist attack or natural disaster, you’ll be using split second thinking and I’m willing to bet the others around you will be in the same situation and all will be helping each other.

Moroccan Food: Is Morocco Safe?

Is the food safe?

The smaller practicalities of life like food and sanitation can also be important. Questions about food safety are always big on the list of questions I get. Overall, yes the food is safe. While many people say avoid fresh fruits and vegetables I think this is bogus. Fresh produce and foods are the best for you. Make good judgments about the cooking spaces. The more locals you see, the better. They aren’t going to eat somewhere that makes people ill. I would avoid fried foods only because oil can be used many, many, many times and never changed. One other food you may want to avoid – eggs. In riads this should not be a problem but we’ve gotten sick a few times eating eggs in street food stalls and restaurants.

Have more questions? I’ll try to answer in the comments!

— this post has been posted on 18 November 2015

Is Morocco Safe to Visit?

The Ultimate List of Morocco Experiences

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What if I told you that in one blog post you could find dozens of the best blog posts on the internet to help your trip to visit Morocco?

You’ve found that place!

I have searched high and low to find as many valuable blog posts about Morocco as possible and add them all here. Of course you can always search my archives to find posts about Morocco (and I’ve mixed them into this post as well) but it’s always good to have as many opinions as possible. I’m certain you’ll find plenty of what you’re looking for here – and if there’s something missing, let me know.

Northern Morocco Travel Resources

Morocco varies greatly region by region. What you experience in one part of the country may be completely different from another destination only 100 kilometers away. In the north there is a greater Spanish influence felt. The city of Tangier, once an international zone, is unlike any other city in Morocco thanks to its historical situation. Wander east and you’ll stumble on Ceuta and Melilla, two cities that sit in Africa but belong to Spain.

Travel Advice: Morocco's Coasts

Sunsets over the ocean. Bright blue fishing boats bobbing in the water. Long days spent lounging on the sands. It sounds like a tropical paradise and you can experience this on Morocco’s 500+ kilometers of Atlantic coastline. Time to get inspired.

Bloggers Best Posts about Marrakech Morocco

TripAdvisor named Marrakech as the world’s best travel destination for 2015 and it’s no surprise considering how many travelers are visiting. While preparing for your trip to the Red City do some background reading with some of these articles. When planning to visit Morocco you can’t leave Marrakech off the list.

Visiting Southern Morocco and the Sahara

For many people thoughts of Morocco immediately conjure up the sandy dunes of the Sahara. There’s a lot more to this diverse country but if you want to get your desert fill, enjoy the ride explore other southern Morocco destinations. Then cross your fingers for a pleasant camel ride!

Best Travel Advice for Visitors to Morocco

There you have it!

Over 100 posts written by those who’ve been here!!!

I know there are even more great posts, so if you have one leave it in the comments so I can add them to the post.

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Tips for Dealing with Touts in Morocco

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The cities of Morocco have a reputation for touts, or people who offer you a service you haven’t requested, such as “helping” you find your riad, or in the case of females those making unwanted advances. While there’s no way to completely avoid this, there are some ways to lessen them and prevent too much unwanted attention.

Shopkeepers, restaurants, and some tour keepers are known to have an employee outside of their place of business trying to bring in sales. While it can be obnoxious to be constantly asked if you want to come inside to eat or to buy something, they’re truly just doing what they can to earn a living. It’s very easy to say “no thank you” and walk away.

Shopkeepers can be very persistent

You’re also bound to run into another kind of tout and this is the much more aggressive and infuriating kind. Young men and sometimes children will offer to show you to your riad, or show you to whatever place it looks like you’re trying to find. They may be very kind and seem like they’re simply doing a good deed – and in some cases they truly are – but once you reach your destination they may ask for payment. Expect to pay them 10-20 dirham but no more. Yes, they may ask for more but the amount quoted is plenty. If they’re young kids, than maybe 5-10 dirham. The majority of young kids aren’t doing this as a way to make money for their family, they’re doing it to go buy snacks or a toy.

What happens if I pay and they ask for more?

Be firm and tell them no. Yes, they may complain or get upset but do not give them more. If the person begins to get hostile or you feel threatened, go to the nearest riad and knock on the door – even if you’re not staying there. The staff can and will help you if you tell them what is happening. Also, much of Marrakech is patrolled by undercover police officers that are there to protect tourists from this type of behavior. You can threaten to involve the police as a final resort and this tends to turn them away.

Avoiding the Henna harassment in Marrakech

You may find women in Marrakech who offer to do henna. Many times they’re sitting on stools in the square and will ask however lately we’ve seen more and more walking around and will simply grab your hand and start applying henna. Sometimes they say it’s “free” then demand money when they’re done. We’ve also heard that they are charging insane prices 200-400 dirham for a bad henna job. A really good henna application won’t cost that much. The best way to deal with this is to pull your hand away and tell them no. If enough people do this, then hopefully they will stop. If you really do want it, then pay them but only a very small amount such as 20 dirham.

The final type of tout are those who harass women. In many instances a boy/man will make a comment/compliment in passing and no more. He may try to pick you up. He might directly ask you to have sex. How you handle any of these situations will depend on your personality and level of irritation. In most cases simply ignoring is the best bet. You can expect that the less clothing you have on, the more comments you will receive. Also, many young men have watched a lot of TV and movies and their perception of women from the US or Europe is skewed. For example, they see men pick up women in the movies and then take them home, therefore they assume this is common and why shouldn’t they try to see if the same thing happens for them? While we know movies are not real life, they often don’t have any other frame of reference.

If you’re being harassed beyond a passing remark than you should absolutely respond and tell the person to leave you alone. Again, threaten to involve the police. If they refuse to leave you alone or follow you, than you should find a police officer, even a traffic officer, and let them know what is happening. While it is very annoying to experience this, in 99% of cases there is no physical threat. The majority of men will not touch you. However, if you do engage with them and show them some interest back you can expect the behavior to contine. Ignoring them is really the best avenue. If you’re a woman traveling in Morocco, you can read my tips on travel where I address these issues further.

Strategies for Handling Touts;

  • Ignore them
  • Decline what they’re selling/asking and walk away
  • Pay attention to how you’re dressed, and err on the side of modesty over revealing clothing
  • Ask for help if you feel at risk
  • Involve the police if needed.

While you most likely will find touts anywhere you go, and while it can put a damper on things try to take things in stride. Saying no isn’t so hard, nor is continuing to walk by. The Moroccan authorities do not take kindly to tourists being harassed so know that should you reach out to the police, they will help you.

Camping and RV’ing in Morocco

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Towering kasbahs, luxurious riad gardens, and sumptuous hotel rooms are all a part of the travelers imagination when it comes to Morocco. However, for those who prefer something a little less expensive and closer to nature camping and RVing sound closer to their dreams. Morocco is not as camping friendly as the United States or Europe however there are more and more locations catering to visitors who prefer sleeping under the stars.

Morocco has several national parks like Al Hoceima National Park and Toubkal National Park. These are protected wildlife refuges and are great for climbing, hiking, and camping. You will want to take weather into consideration. Contrary to popular belief, not all of Morocco is warm and sunny year round. Autumn and winter months can be quite cold, especially at higher elevations. Remember it does snow in the High Atlas Mountains. Further south the Anti-Atlas mountains are more rocky and the opposite weather extreme needs to be monitored. It can become extremely hot as you approach the Sahara desert.

High Atlas Mountains

More and more tourists from Europe are visiting the country in RV’s and so the market is opening up to provide the amenities they need. While there is some infrastructure for camping it’s also possible to hike “off the grid” though I highly recommend you do this with a tour operator. They can not only help you get the right equipment but they also make sure you’re safe. This should be your number one concern as it is very real  In remote mountain regions you may find it additionally difficult to communicate as many people only speak one of the Berber languages. You may have difficulty understanding where it is ok to camp, and if you’re squatting on someone’s land.

Donkey Carrying Supplies

The Atlantic Coast of Morocco has a lot of campgrounds and is pretty well equipped for even the first time camper. If instead you plan to go into the Rif or Atlas Mountains you’ll need to set up a camp along the trail. For further ventures it may not be as clear cut. The price and amenities at campgrounds will vary but typically campgrounds are very affordable and cost under 20E a night. You can find a list of some camping options on Tripadvisor.

If you want to RV in Morocco it can be difficult to find rentals, however you can rent a camper in Spain and drive it to Morocco. This may offer you the most options. You’ll just want to make sure that it is ok to take the RV outside of the country. The Tarifa to Tangier ferry can carry vehicles across the Straits of Gibralter and have you in Morococo within 2 hours. Morocco has a network of toll roads that run the coast/interior of the country and lots of other roads that go into the more remote areas.

RV Camping Morocco

Finding electrical plugins and water hookups may prove to be the most difficult. Outside of a campground you likely won’t find exterior hookups. It’s however not uncommon to see campers parked overnight in parking lots. If you need to wash laundry, there aren’t self-service Laundromats however you can take your clothes to be washed at a laundry service for a relatively small fee.

Wildlife to Worry About

Morocco does have scorpions and snakes. In rural areas wild boars and monkeys are also worth keeping in mind. Tent camping proves a little more troublesome when thinking of these creatures. Make sure to keep your food sealed and put away. Pick up and get rid of all garbage especially at night. Scorpions are found in the warmer areas and when the nights get cold they look for warm places to curl up, so it’s worth shaking out your sleeping bag before going to bed and storing your bedding rolled up during the day.

Have you camped in Morocco? I’d love to hear your experience!

5 Morocco Myths Debunked!

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What you see isn’t always what you get! 

Sometimes I feel like I’m being fooled everyday. There are countless number of things that seem real on the surface in Morocco, but once you dig further you discover that in reality it’s just a myth. Instead of letting them perpetuate I’m debunking some of the top Morocco myths I’ve heard!

Orange Trees aren't Real Oranges

The “Orange” Trees in Marrakech

This is the only myth that is limited to Marrakech. If you’ve ever visited or even seen pictures of the “orange” trees around the city I’m sure you thought, “how awesome to have oranges everywhere!” Sadly, those trees aren’t edible oranges. They’re called znbou3 and you don’t want to bite into one. They are sometimes used in homes to help cure olives but are not sweet juicy oranges!

Morocco Rug Myths

Carpet Myths

If you come to Morocco you’ve either got carpets on your mind or you’re certain to at least wander into a carpet shop. Here you’ll be barraged by hundreds of carpets in different styles, textures, patterns, colors and fabrics. Of course you’ll be told every carpet is old, handmade, and of the finest sheep wool.  It’s not.  A lot of rugs that look old, aren’t really old – they’ve been made to look that way and likely even kept out in the sun for sometime to make them appear even older. If you’re an antique dealer coming to Morocco, it’s best to connect with a local expert who can help you find rugs that are truly authentic. If however you are looking for a piece for your home than you should go in with this knowledge and adjust your price accordingly. That being said, there are beautiful, handmade rugs that may not be as “perfect” as the dealer claims but make a wonderful addition to any home.

Moroccans don't eat couscous everyday

Couscous

There are a few myths around couscous. First, Moroccans don’t eat couscous everyday – not even close. Couscous is usually only eaten on Fridays. If you’re visiting that’s going to be the best day to eat it as many restaurants only serve it that day as well. Second, couscous is a dish separate from tajine. A tajine is a stew, cooked in an earthenware vessel. It has meat and/or vegetables and is eaten with bread. Couscous is cooked in a pot that looks like a double boiler but with a collandar on top. The semolina grains are triple steamed over a pot with boiling broth, vegetables and meat. It’s then arranged on a platter and eaten with spoons. But tajine and couscous are never put together (unlike many cooking shows and recipes may have you believe).

Religion in Morocco Myths - The Casablanca Cathedral

Religion

Yes, Islam is the dominant religion in Morocco but that doesn’t mean it’s the only religion. There are many churches all over the country, including an impressive cathedral in Casablanca. There also are many synagogues across Morocco. Casablanca still has 35 in operation, while smaller cities may also have one. As the Jewish population ages there are becoming fewer and fewer. Finally, not all Moroccans (including Muslims) are religious. There are plenty of Moroccans who are not. Morocco has a very long tradition of interfaith relations and tolerance.

Bellydancing isn't Moroccan

Belly Dancing

It’s not a Moroccan thing, it’s Egyptian. You’ll find belly dancing shows which are fine, just know it’s not traditionally Moroccan. Women might dance something similar to belly dancing but it’s in the company of women only and at something like a wedding party. The “traditional costumes” you may come across are not traditional at all.

There they are 5 Moroccan myths busted! Any others you can think of or want to know about?

 

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