Although Morocco is considered a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) for the most enjoyable weather. It might be best to avoid the summer months (June-August) due to scorching temperatures, though prices may be lower. Winter has fewer crowds but offers much colder temperatures.

Traveling around the country:

When traveling around Morocco, there are many options for getting by, the choice often depending on what kind of traveler you are. For the independent traveler who wishes to reach more remote places, a rental car, private driver or private transfer might be a good option. 

For those who are sticking to bigger towns and venturing into more remote areas with guides or planned activities, the well-connected trains and inner-country flights are a reliable way to get around. Morocco’s buses can connect you to small towns farther away. 

For a traveler who’s looking to have transportation taken care of, consider booking a guided tour. Many choose to partake in tour groups that arrange shared transportation in vans or coaches around Morocco; these typically also come with planned activities. 

Here is a deeper look into the various transportation methods in Morocco: 

If you are planning a road trip through the country, be conscious that driving through city streets in places like Marrakech is not always recommended, as traffic can be difficult to navigate. If you are looking to rent a car, it is recommended that you be an experienced driver. Car rentals may range from US$22-$40 per day.

Morocco has a well-connected train system, the ONCF. One of these main routes is a high-speed journey from Casablanca to Tangier. This two-hour train has stops in Rabat and Kenitra, and ticket fares cost between US$33-$55 depending on the class of your ticket. Beyond this line, the company can offer connections via bus or smaller train to farther destinations. 

Grand taxis or private drivers are also good options for a small group traveling between larger cities. Some private drivers may be found online through sites like Morocco Hire, Mint Tea Tours and GetYourGuide, or even through your accommodation. 

Domestic flights are a quick option for traveling long distances within Morocco. Ryanair, a popular budget airline, has launched 14 domestic flight routes throughout the country. The airline offers flights from Fes, Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier, Tetouan and Errachidia. Flights can be as low as US$16. 

Buses are an affordable way to get around Morocco. Supratours, one of the country’s most popular transit companies, can offer bus services beyond the train lines or for general intercity connections. Tickets may be bought online via ONCF or in person. CTM buses also cover an extensive region within Morocco for travel. Prices range based on your journey; for a CTM bus trip between Marrakech to Agadir, you can expect to pay about US$15. Buses can be hot and overcrowded, but they are one of the most budget-friendly options. 

Intra-city travel:

From horse-drawn carriages to your classic yellow taxi, there are a myriad of options for getting around within Morocco’s cities. 

One of the best ways to get around the old cities is on your feet. Walking around the medinas, the ancient city centers, is one of the best ways to explore. Wander through the narrow alleys, stop in shops and don’t be afraid to get a little lost. 

Small taxis, known as petit taxis, run within many towns in Morocco. The petit taxis operate on a meter, with prices starting at 7 MAD (about US 70 cents). Grand taxis are larger vehicles that can fit more passengers and run to farther destinations. Travelers should know that prices may vary, as cost depends on location instead of a meter. Credit cards are rarely accepted, so make sure you bring cash to pay the fares. If there is no meter in the vehicle, agree on a price before you depart. Note that the taxi’s color varies depending on the city. Medinas, like the one in Fes, however, do not allow for the circulation of cars and vehicles other than bikes and mopeds within the walls. 

While Uber is not available anywhere but Casablanca, the app Careem is a similar popular option within the major cities. Prices vary depending on the city and your ride.   

A budget-friendly option for getting around the city of Marrakech is navigating the public bus system. The ALSA bus costs only 3 or 4 MAD (about US 40 cents), but be aware that it has been reported to be quite crowded and can be confusing for tourists to navigate. 

Horse-drawn carriage rides, or caleches, are still used in Marrakech as a form of tourist transport, but many travelers choose to avoid them due to concerns about animal welfare. While these carriages offer a visible presence around the city’s main sites, they raise serious ethical questions about the treatment and working conditions of the horses. If you’re looking to explore at a slower pace, consider a walking tour or bicycle rental instead—more humane, and just as immersive.

Although English may be spoken in tourist areas or the hospitality sector, do not expect everyone to speak it. Travelers are recommended to download an easy translator app, like Google Translate or Reverso Context, which you may speak into, play aloud or simply show the person you are communicating with. Learning some phrases in the local Moroccan Arabic, known as Darija, is always appreciated and may get some smiles in return. 

Here are some useful phrases to prepare for your trip: 

Thank you - Shukran

Hi- Salam

No, thank you - La, shukran

How are you? - Labas?

Delicious - Bnin

The phrase Salaam alykum translates to “peace be upon you” and is commonly used as a greeting. 

In terms of cultural etiquette, there are many ways that life in Morocco may be very different from the customs that you are used to. As with traveling anywhere, approach these differences with respect and an open mind.

These customs may vary depending on the region, rurality or situation you are in. The following examples are just a handful of things to be aware of when traveling in Marrakech, but be advised that there may be more in-depth or additional rules of etiquette that apply to different areas, such as when you are in someone’s home, in a highly religious space, etc.

What to wear: Morocco is a Muslim country, and it is advised for tourists to dress modestly when visiting. This may look like clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Keep the swimwear to the pool or beach. When visiting religious sites, dressing more conservatively is respectful, like keeping your shoulders, arms and knees covered. Head coverings are not required, but you may choose to wear one. Although in Marrakech, there is a greater range of modern clothing styles. 

Eating: Before eating, always wash your hands. If eating with your hands, it is a respectful practice to use your right one, as the left is considered “unclean.” During Ramadan, it is more respectful to avoid openly eating in public during the day. Don’t worry if you are not fasting; many restaurants stay open during the day to cater to tourists. Tipping is also a common practice in Morocco. Expect to tip when going out to eat and for other services, like you might in the US, such as for a private driver, the salon, porters, etc.

Shopping: Bargaining is part of the culture, as you will quickly learn on your first visit to the souk, or market. While negotiating is expected, be sure to stay respectful during the interaction.

Check out our 5 Tips for Haggling at a Souk in Morocco. 

Walking around: Even though you may be surrounded by gorgeous scenes and vibrant colors when walking around Marrakech, be mindful before taking photos. Always ask someone before you take their portrait—this goes for anywhere you travel. 

When in public, note that public displays of affection are frowned upon. For LGBTQIA+ couples traveling to Morocco, be advised that homosexuality is considered illegal in the country. Though its enforcement may manifest differently across different regions and beliefs, it is not recommended to show any displays of affection.

Although cash and credit cards may be accepted at larger establishments, carrying cash is highly recommended. Many smaller businesses only accept cash as a form of payment.