Destination Guides
Morocco
Chefchaouen
Morocco offers one of the most sensory-rich trips in the Middle East and North Africa, Marrakech's souks and riads, the Sahara's dunes for an overnight desert camp, and the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen each give a very different flavor of the country. Spring and fall (March-May, September-November) bring the most comfortable temperatures for both the cities and the desert. An 8-10 day trip allows Marrakech, a Sahara desert excursion, and one additional stop such as Fez or the Atlas Mountains. Because a desert excursion requires real logistics (multi-hour drives, camel treks, and choosing the right camp) an advisor's help booking this piece well in advance and pairing it thoughtfully with the cities makes a substantial difference to the trip.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Moroccan culture is warm and deeply hospitable, rooted in Islamic tradition and a genuine pride in Berber, Arab, and French colonial influences all at once.
Friendly greetings: A handshake is standard between men, greetings with women may be more reserved depending on context, warmth builds quickly in conversation.
Dress respectfully: Modest dress (covered shoulders and knees) is expected broadly, particularly outside resort areas and at religious sites.
Dining times: Lunch is often the largest meal, dinner from 8:00-9:00pm onward, tea is offered constantly throughout the day.
Local customs: Bargaining in the souks is expected and part of the experience, a good-natured back-and-forth rather than a confrontation.
Transportation and timing: A private driver is the most practical way to move between cities and reach the desert, distances and road conditions can make travel times longer than expected.
Practical tip: Accepting mint tea when offered, whether in a shop or a home, is a genuine gesture of hospitality and considered polite even without a purchase in mind.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: Moroccan saffron, argan oil, or a tin of ras el hanout spice blend.
For the Fashionistas: A handwoven Berber rug or a pair of leather babouche slippers from the souks.
For the Home: A piece of hand-painted Moroccan ceramic or a brass lantern.
Suggested Gratuities
Private Tour Guides: $20-25 per person for a half-day tour
Desert Camp Guides/Camel Handlers: $10-15 per person per excursion
Shared Group Tour Guides: $10 per person
Taxis: Agree on a price beforehand
Restaurants: 10% where not already included
Private Drivers: $15-20 per day
Housekeeping: $2-3 per night
Porters: $1-2 per bag
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Moroccan Dirham
Language: Arabic and Berber, French widely spoken, English common in tourist areas
Transportation: Private drivers are the most practical way to cover cities and the desert
Weather: Hot summers, mild winters, spring and fall are most comfortable for touring and the desert
Walking: Medinas involve maze-like uneven streets, sturdy comfortable footwear essential
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