2. What to Know Before Planning a 10-Day Morocco Itinerary

When touching down in Morocco, you might feel like you’re arriving on a new planet. The diverse culture, harsh environment, and unique charm can make Morocco feel worlds away from home. As you start to plan a 10-day trip through the country, there are some things to know to prepare yourself. By having the right tools at your disposal, you can reduce frustration and enjoy everything Morocco has to offer.

Currency Exchange: Before landing in Morocco, you might exchange at a local bank to have local currency ready to go. Although ATMs are abundant in all the major cities, you might find that the majority of places in the medina will not accept ATM or credit cards. Denominations of 50, 100, 200, and 500 Moroccan Dirham bills can be found. These are both the most widely distributed and accepted. Bus System: If your 10-day itinerary leads you to various towns in Morocco, you’re going to want to explore using buses. These are the two primary companies that offer daily routes and have comfortable amenities to ensure you can enjoy your transit. Keep in mind that you must arrive earlier in the day at the bus terminal to guarantee your spot and travel the appropriate duration.

3. What a Ten-Day Morocco Itinerary Provides

You will start your ten-day Morocco journey in the idyllic town of Chefchaouen (days one and two) and then move on to the hustle and bustle of Fes (days three and four). Afterward, you will explore the ancient streets of the newly formed town of Meknes. Next, you will head to the capital, Rabat, to get a feel for the center of Moroccan travel by visiting one of the largest medinas in the country. Finally, you will cap off your journey with a four-day stretch in Marrakech, pacing the ancient streets by day and experiencing the modern cultural revival by night.

After spending the day journeying throughout the blue streets of Chefchaouen, you will leave the following morning and board a bus to the charming city of Fes. Fes is the beating heart of the country and represents the epicenter of political power in Moroccan history. Considered one of the oldest cities after Marrakech, it is located on the defense of an ancient route into the country. The 8,000-year-old city holds the traditional history of the country and represents classic planning in design and importance. Fes is expertly known for all of the markets and trading posts that make Morocco so famous: animal markets for centuries run by butchers and weapon markets that lead to the famous talismanic trades of protecting the locals against ill spirits. With all of this history in itself, Fes is a city worth experiencing in the name of tradition.

4. What to See in Morocco in 10 Days

What better way to discover it than in a 10-day Morocco itinerary? Prepare to be captivated by Morocco’s colorful landscapes, from the arid deserts in the south to the rugged, snow-capped Atlas Mountains and the beautiful Atlantic coast lined with broad sandy beaches, up to the fertile and vibrant cities in the north. Get ready to explore the highlights of this magical destination and have the time of your life.

Fes, the second largest city of Morocco, is considered by some to be the country’s soul. The medina of Fes is one of a kind and is, in fact, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Morocco and the 13th tallest in the world, perfectly representing the country’s rich tradition intertwined with timelessness. If peace and tranquility are what you are seeking on your Morocco itinerary, Ait Benhaddou is no doubt the place to go. The walled city is a fortified village that overlooks the entire area from its hill. The most picturesque spot around town is the Kasbah, which never fails to impress.

5. Where to Stay on a Morocco Itinerary for 10 Days

Choosing a place to stay in Morocco depends on your budget, time, and preferred method of travel. For luxury and traditional style, riads are incredibly popular and yet are not always expensive. Some of the best places to stay in Morocco are riads. On the other hand, staying in a lovely hotel or an Airbnb is a very comfortable option. The best riads are more than just a place to stay; they are beautifully designed hotels with a wonderful sense of Moroccan hospitality. Moreover, they are usually in the best locations in the medinas. These popular places to stay sell out fast, so if you are interested, get booking now. If you are more into modern amenities, fancy swimming pools, and hotel service, there are plenty of options in small hotels and big hotels throughout Morocco. They are easily found and possibly easier to find last minute. If you are on a budget, head into the hostels in the big towns and cities, although if you are traveling beyond, cheap hotels can be found in every single town in Morocco. You will find many comfy mattresses and modest hotels in towns, as well as European style accommodation in other sporadic towns.

6. Activities in a 10-Day Morocco Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Casablanca Your 10-day Morocco itinerary starts off in Casablanca, which the majority of international flights will fly to. Casa is a large, spread-out city with not a lot going for it, but it’s a convenient stopping point before the pleasures to come. Spend the night at Rick’s Café, Ryan’s Café, or across the street from the medina at Hotel Guynemer. Day 2: Casablanca Markets and Fes The second day of your Morocco itinerary should start off at Quartier Habous, a Moroccan version of a mini Paris just south of the city center. Quartier Habous is both popular with locals and tourists for its cafes, bakeries, shops, and markets, and is thus a good name to know in case you get lost. After a quick visit, stroll to the Hassan II Mosque to take in its beauty at 11 a.m. when non-Muslims are allowed in. Also, the surrounding beaches are famous for surfers. Head to CTM/Gare Routière to buy a bus ticket for the six-hour ride to Fes. The next few days are a gauntlet of activities, so take it easy for the rest of the day with only a meal, hammam, and a good night’s rest.

7. Other Details to Consider for Your Ten-Day Morocco Itinerary

If you are sure about planning a trip to Morocco, you have probably already been to quite a lot of pages and checked what must-see spots you would visit in case you only have ten days to travel all over the country. Well, look no further because what you are about to read is not just an ordinary guide, but also a well-documented account from someone who has actually “been there, done that.” Note that the Moroccan climate is similar to the Mediterranean one, with a warm, wet winter and a hot, dry summer (except in the high mountain areas). In the summer, cities like Marrakech and Fez have scorching temperatures, with daytime temperatures often surpassing 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. In the winter months such as January and February, the temperatures actually do drop quite a lot but are still relatively mild in comparison to their European counterpart.

There are no official currencies for travel in Morocco, but they mainly accept Euros and debit or credit cards. Don’t be surprised if some of the vendors refuse to give back your change in cents! Although alcohol is not outright prohibited in the country, it is just difficult for you to find a “decent” store to buy it, as the shop owners put it in some hidden chests. For a bonus, you may try to visit a hammam, the traditional Turkish bath, in Moroccan style. With several experiences and photos to share, hopefully, you are now ready to plan your own Moroccan 10-day itinerary.

8. The Best 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Kids

A day-by-day guide to an unforgettable family trip. Transform spending 10 days in traditional Morocco hotspots into a family adventure at which all shriek with glee. Push back the Sahara dunes away from the crowds, mule trek the Atlas, and explore the wild Atlantic Coast. Oh, and did you say a day camp in an enchanting mountain kasbah is a daily choice? Along the way, choose from wonderful local hideaways with kid-focused activities.

Amble through Marrakech’s Majorelle Gardens and Koutoubia Mosque Square, bushwhack to the mountain home of the last Berber-governing family, and wallow in sun, sand, and sea at Morocco’s laid-back Atlantic coastal gem. Stow away in Berber kasbah camps and snorkel to hidden offshore playground islands.

Hug the edge of the forested Atlas Mountains and mule trek to your night mountain camp before descending to the evening drum circle at Marrakech’s world-famous Jemma El Fna Square. Double dare your little ones to creep anyone with a Berber faces towel into thinking there is an alien or extraterrestrial at camp.

9. Recommendations for the 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Couples

Couples often have diverse interests. However, when both partners are adventurous, seeking unique experiences, and are food lovers, planning a trip to Morocco seems like a no-brainer! This incredible and diverse gem of a country seems more like a continent. It has historical cities, miles of coasts leading to beautiful mountains and interesting river valleys flanked by exotic markets, baking deserts, and rich heritage. A small group of people often becomes divided, torn between the allure of the famous blue city, the Sahara Desert, and the otherworldly landscapes of canyons and mountains. Here lies our solution, sharing an itinerary of ten days perfectly suited for couples both traveling independently and with a small group.

Our ten-day Morocco itinerary should tempt couples who love exploring historical heritage, are drawn to nature, and are both food and adventure enthusiasts. This itinerary covers more than 2,000 km and is a perfect balance for those who find love for busy markets and colorful souks. Offering something for the romantics at heart as well as the adventurers, the itinerary was perfectly designed for us. It’s the type where you can lean back, following your partner’s lead, either in wanderlust or cooking classes. It’s our perfect balance where each of us gets our way, taking time to discover the country without the necessity of arguing who is right! We could both be, for once!

10. Advisory 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Seniors

No doubt that a 10-day Morocco itinerary will amaze anyone who grabs a traveler’s chance to visit multiple cities at the same time. Just keep in mind to take your senior relatives to a nearby place in some cities to avoid the crowd. Another piece of advice is to book a morning flight from Marrakech to Tangier. This way, you will have the opportunity for morning sightseeing and not lose time. Also, carry some medications that aging parents might need. In this case, a travel insurance policy must be of top importance. While booking the tickets, remember that it’s just exciting to simplify life, as these will complicate it. Be aware of pickpockets, especially here in Morocco. The itinerary can be adjusted according to the advice.

While such a Morocco itinerary may not provide the same in-depth experience as a one-week Morocco itinerary, it does create a good balance between Europe and North Africa. Plus, for luxury lovers, you can opt for a luxury riad in Marrakech or a deluxe riad in Fes. Take care and have a relaxing time! Years later, you will remember a lot and forget the tiredness. That is a 10-day Morocco itinerary for seniors who have lots to see and little time to relax.

11. 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Honeymoon

So you’re planning your honeymoon in Morocco? What a unique and eclectic choice! But we’ll need the perfect 10-day Morocco honeymoon itinerary to make it complete. Not to worry! I have you covered with the ultimate 10-day Morocco itinerary for a romantic honeymoon. This includes everything you need to know and see from sunrise to sunset to make the most of your honeymoon. You’ll be surrounded by the sounds, sights, and smells of everything Moroccan. We cover all your honeymoon trip bases: from the sprawling vibrant Medina in Marrakech to the beautiful sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. And of course, any honeymoon would not be complete without a romantic day and night in one of Morocco’s luxury private tented camps.

No trip to Morocco could be possible without seeing at least some of the vibrant cities that fill the country itself. So for a comprehensive honeymoon guide to Morocco’s cities, we included every romantic place to see and experience in Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen. We provide insights on how to take a romantic hot air balloon ride, the lowdown on enjoying those comfortable and traditional Moroccan hammams, and the best restaurants for those romantic and formal dinners. Fretting about what to pack? We even go over the best guide for a honeymoon packing list. That’s right, we are doing your homework for you! Did we also mention the helpful Morocco travel tips and extremely informative road trip guide? Word to the wise, bring lots of room on your phones to take many Moroccan photos. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

12. The Ultimate 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Adventures

We think our 10-day Morocco travel itinerary is one of the ultimate ways to experience the country in such little time. Whether you want an active, outdoors holiday, a cultural route, travel Morocco for the photography, or get lost in the desert on a yoga retreat, this is the perfect 10-day Morocco travel plan for you! In this post, we go through our 10-day adventure, including what to do each day, where in Morocco you’ll be heading, budget information, and detailed recommendations to make sure it’s perfect. To begin with, we start from Marrakech. Don’t hesitate to mix and match elements of our 10-day Morocco itinerary to better suit your needs, whether you want to travel at a different time of year or expect a specific type of weather. Or if you’re looking for a 5-day or 7-day Morocco itinerary, we have that for you too. The most budget-friendly airlines will land in Marrakech or Fez, so we recommend beginning our 10-day Morocco itinerary with flights to Marrakech before taking you to Fez. We cover transport conditions, car hire, and information on climate later in this post.

13. Unique 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Hiking in the Sahara

Imagine for a moment walking on the moving golden sand of the Sahara Desert under the scorching sun and warm desert wind. The Sahara has charmed travelers for a long time and inspired people with its landscapes. If you are a fan of hiking and adventure and are ready to challenge the heat of the desert, grab your bag and fulfill your dream of hiking in the Sahara. Here is a complete guide to a unique 10-day walking itinerary you can organize. Your trip will cover the most beautiful regions of southern Morocco, revealing odd landscapes, breathtaking views, friendly people, and folklore. The sacredly faint landscape, beautifully simple and strikingly fascinating, tends to summon the energies hollowed in crowded and scattered heads. Not everyone feels the charm of it on their cheeks, or defines the desert as an adventure, and learns about its mystery through gusts of wind and the crackling of sands. For those who set their thirst for freedom from the scorching sun and the hot desert wind down on their hike, numerous thrills are added.

14. Short 10-Day Morocco Itinerary for Ocean

With sand in our shoes, we step from the desert to the beach, putting together a 10-day Morocco itinerary for ocean worshipers and Zen seekers. We are entering the Essaouira territory. This lovely little town opening its gates to the harsh Atlantic embodies the best from many worlds: an ancient peaceful Medina that invites you to wander around, contemplate and practice your best-kept silver souks and argan oil cooperatives, alluring ocean resorts and events and, of course, these wild windy ocean waves like a siren song to surfers around the world.

Why will we spend our 10 days in Morocco practicing our best bond feature with the waves? Unlike we avid followers of the esoterically associative meaning of Le Petit Prince, Moroccan ocean has nothing esoterically associable. If anything, the element of water tests the human spirit every single day, like a child who explicitly asks you «I want more attention, you just cannot take your eyes off your phone!» Moroccans managed to domesticate the ocean fewer than you might ever expect by extracting value from argan trees growing on the sweet coast. The robust little goats that favor the most delirious branches have become the mascot of many guidebooks.

15. 10-Day Morocco Itinerary with Locals in Atlas Mountains

Guideline 1. On this last day of the trip, having arrived in the afternoon the day before, is spent with locals in remote Berber villages deep in the Atlas Mountains, very little touched by tourism. You will have time to meet some local people, which is not common in this region. After breakfast, before driving back to Imlil, you will stop at Place Moulay Brahim for the last breathtaking panoramic photo of Imlil village and the surrounding valleys, covered with bright colors. Then you will be taken to our comfortable vehicle, and we will continue our day in the direction of the salt road to finally go to the village of the guide to visit their village or the projects that have been implemented to help the local population. Guideline 2. Now the time has come to eat a simple and delicious local meal, perhaps a tagine, good to fill your stomach with delicious bread and maybe a glass of local mint tea. After lunch, continue to the village of Imlil where you will spend the night in a nice hotel and relax for the pleasant trek in the middle of the day, softening your body well for the return. The next day, you can enjoy swimming in nature, visiting restaurants or food stores, and getting massages to recover from walking. It is essential to order an authentic demonstration of the craft of making rugs and blankets, the arts and crafts so widespread in this region of Morocco. Remember that any direct purchase will have immediate positive effects on the local microeconomy, which is currently hard hit by the absence of tourism for a year.

16. 10-Day Morocco Itinerary Running in Sahara Desert of Morocco

When planning a 10-day vacation in Morocco, you need to outline the desert tour from Fes to Marrakech. You simply can’t visit this amazing country and miss the awesome opportunity to spend an unforgettable night in the Sahara Desert. We spent the whole day in the desert, and believe us, that was the highlight of our 10-day vacation in Morocco. One night in the desert will provide you with amazing memories and many stories to share with loved ones. There are Marrakech to Fes tours and vice versa, so you can choose which part of the country you would rather start your adventure in.

You can also do a one-day Fes to Marrakech or Marrakech to Fes tour, which we actually recommend if you don’t have much time. But we definitely feel that you will miss out on many stunning Moroccan cities. In this 10-day itinerary, you will visit Fes, the Sahara Desert, Todgha Gorge, Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco’s Hollywood Ouarzazate, and Marrakech. We believe that this is the perfect trip to see several major landmarks of Morocco in a short amount of time. In one week, you will explore the legendary old medinas of Fes and Marrakech, experience how to survive a night in the unaccommodating Sahara Desert, and take fascinating pictures of picturesque kasbahs. You will spend an incredible time in lush oases and bear witness to the spectacular sunsets and sunrises of the countryside.

17. Cultural Insights for a 10-Day Morocco Itinerary

The cultural experiences you’ll have when you visit Morocco are among the most interesting and profound found anywhere in the world. If you go to Morocco, you’ll have the opportunity to see a completely new way of life—one that has been around for thousands of years! There are some things you should keep in mind while vacationing in Morocco so that the people who live there won’t feel like you are trying to invade their privacy. Moroccans are extremely friendly people, especially if you take the time to get to know how they live their lives. They are also very hospitable. If you are invited into a Moroccan’s house, you should bring a gift for the family. It doesn’t have to be expensive, as it’s just a thoughtful, kind gesture to show that you appreciate their offer, as you would do with any friend who invites you to their home. This itinerary will look at some of the favorite cultural aspects of Morocco during the course of a visit, to help you better understand how life in Morocco works.

When you step off the plane into Marrakech, you may think you have traveled back in time. It is far different from anywhere you’ve been. Morocco is really unlike all the other countries visited. Although other people write about the experiences in Morocco more than others, there are still some things you should know that haven’t had a chance to share yet. First of all, please do not wear bikinis in the village unless it’s on the beach. Moroccans bathe fully clothed in the river or they make it all the way out to the ocean, with full body and head coverage. This is not a modest choice. Shorts are okay to wear most places in Morocco, as long as they are not high-cut or tight-fitting. The Moroccan summer is brutally hot, so it’s only reasonable to be wearing shorts. But leave the beachwear at the hotel, please! When you wait in a bank, you will be serenaded by an elegant Amazigh woman in a bright patterned kaftan and multi-colored headscarf. If that’s not enough, Moroccans still speak a wide variety of local languages—not just the one colonial tongue the new generation learns in school. You may only speak Arabic and Berber and find it hard to communicate with one another. Even this limited understanding of language differs as you move from town to town, with the variety of dialects scattered throughout the country. It gives the impression of singularity in the country, as we enter a lively festival where every house has its own separate language. But the break paints the picture of a country that is competing lovingly and seriously for the distinction of first place in its varied and complex cultural tapestry.

18. Transportation Options for a 10-Day Morocco Itinerary

While most parts of Morocco are now well served by both trains and buses, these options are often only available during the day. Taxis and buses occasionally provide nighttime transportation; such services, however, are rarer. While a number of flights connect Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fes, airfare is often significantly more expensive than train and bus transportation. The new high-speed train now operates between Tangier and Casablanca and has dramatically cut travel times. Renting a car is a way to provide maximum flexibility and allows you to visit smaller towns that may not be easily accessed via public transportation.

Trains continue to provide the fastest and most comfortable means of transportation around the country. They operate between many of the key points in the northern and western parts of the country. Trains are generally clean and comfortable and have dining cars. When traveling by train, however, make sure to book your tickets in advance to ensure choice of class and the best prices. First class on trains often quickly sells out. Although city center train stations make train schedules slower than buses, it is often more convenient to take the train for travel between cities. Trains are relatively frequent, generally clean, and more comfortable than buses. Note that while you can purchase bus tickets from individual bus station companies at the Marrakech bus station, you generally cannot schedule the return trip. If you are visiting a city as a day trip, please realize that buses and trains do not always go to the same destinations. For point-to-point day trips from Marrakech, for example, buses are generally most appropriate.

19. Cuisine to Experience During Your 10-Day Morocco Itinerary

Moroccan food brings together strong flavors and influences from Mediterranean, Berber, and Arabic regions. Herbs and spices are used to add an earthy richness to flavors that cut through and enhance any dish. Moroccan breakfasts are simple, consisting of bread and bread products and sweetened condiments alongside an array of hot beverages such as mint tea and coffee. Lunch and dinner are significant events designed to be enjoyed around a communal table. Fish and seafood dishes are commonly found in coastal regions. When inland, be sure to try tajine and couscous. Throughout Morocco, you will find sandwiches and wraps served as street food.

Expect to see a variety of street foods being prepared in various medinas while you are wandering. A popular choice is a tagine filled with kofta, merguez, or tangy roast beef. Rôtisseurs often serve lamb or fork-tender chicken, and escargot street vendors offer adventurous eaters a unique culinary experience. Grilled and deep-fried fish are available at many little food stalls by the coast. When sitting down to eat out, don’t be tempted to rush your way through something quickly. Meals are designed to be appreciated and are eaten communally, with everyone contributing to the company.

20. Safety Tips for Traveling in Morocco

Are you planning on traveling to Morocco but are unsure about the safety while there? There are many others who share your concerns. The media publishes scary articles from time to time, and many people shy away from international travel based purely on hearsay. This guide will include information on the country’s current security situation, a section on safety tips for females visiting Morocco, and will close with some basic safety tips that you should follow. Always ensure that you check for current travel advisories from your local government. Remember, these tips don’t just apply to travel in Morocco but to travel anywhere in the world.

First and foremost, life isn’t always black and white. There isn’t always trouble around, and different areas and people will have different values when it comes to morals and ethics. Just as with any other city or country in the world, it is important to remember to use common sense when dealing with strangers, not to flash expensive items, and to know a little about the area you are traveling in. If it’s unsafe to travel to a certain region, the best way to figure this out is by checking current travel advisories from your government.

21. Packing Essentials for a 10-Day Morocco Trip

Traveling around Morocco will mean going from bustling medinas to spectacular mountains and deserts. If you want to avoid lugging around a large bag, you need to create the perfect Morocco packing list. Try to minimize by getting a size-appropriate carry-on if you can. It will make skipping the line at immigration and walking through airports and train stations a breeze. I suggest some lightweight and packable bags, so you have more room for souvenirs later. The hot desert sun can be harsh, but so can the high heat in Marrakech during the summer. Protect yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and don’t forget the sunscreen.

Comfortable running sandals will be your best friend when you’re walking along the beach, mountain trails, or medinas and souks. Especially with the rocky terrain in rural Morocco, it would be a good idea to change your regular hikers for a pair of trail running shoes that have good traction on those steep Atlas Mountain trails and short city walks, which you’ll find on most day treks. They should also be lightweight and breathable. I also suggest a comfortable yet stylish pair of dress sandals for those nights out on the town. It can be black, tan, or metallic. It’s great to match your style! Cowboy hats aren’t required, but they do look cool in the sand dunes. The sun is intense in the dunes, and sand reflects light. A hat is necessary to protect your face and eyes from glare and sunburn.

22. Budgeting Your 10-Day Morocco Itinerary

When budgeting your 10-day Morocco itinerary, airfare from home will likely be your biggest expense. Once you get there, though, you’ll find that Morocco is very budget-friendly. The cost of living is quite low, particularly if you avoid pricey restaurants and hotels designed for wealthy Europeans. You can save money by staying in simpler guesthouses or taking domestic flights. For transport, taking buses can be significantly cheaper than taxis or hiring drivers, albeit a bit slower. The real savings, however, come from holding firm against relentless touting. Also, it’s essential to review your spending limits where bargaining is expected or requested, like in markets or with taxis. Tourist-driven pricing is common in Marrakech and increasingly trendy cities like Chefchaouen and Essaouira. Meanwhile, in less gentrified cities like Fez or rugged trail towns such as Imlil and Dhakla, vendors will respect you and your negotiated price without harassing you. A combination of tapping into Morocco’s budget-friendly savings and avoiding excessive touting will enable you to enjoy all the attractions it has to offer without putting a big dent in your wallet.

The Moroccan Dirham is a closed currency, which means that it cannot be purchased outside of the country. You will, therefore, want to get some money in an airport ATM or use exchange offices or bank cash machines. If using the latter, credit unions and mega banks in larger cities offer ATMs that do not charge a fixed rate per transaction and that dispense up to the limit they impose, if any. When using an ATM, it’s a good idea to ask the bank to increase the amount you wish to withdraw if it’s too low. Some tourists transact with local businesses using their country’s main currency, but Moroccan dirhams are technically required. Money changers in tourist cities could accept cryptocurrencies or valuable foreign currency; however, that luxury is reserved primarily for travelers in Marrakech, the hikers in High Atlas Mountain trail towns, and a few other enclaves. Withdrawing and carrying Moroccan dirhams in cash is therefore recommended.

23. Photography Tips for Capturing Morocco

Keep your lens from directly facing people in the Medina from a distance. It’s like reverse-beaming tourists, and in the worst case, it can even come to stoning. Also, not in shopping alleys but in the main thoroughfares. Always ask before photographing at a small distance. Believe it or not, people react positively when sincerely interested – imagine they came to your hometown asking if they could take a photo of you. The hands-down best way is to ask for a portrait directly to communicate non-verbally through actions.

Many Moroccans will give you the ‘ok’ by nodding, pointing towards them or their group, or by holding their hands up in a ‘victory’ gesture. Then, they sometimes turn away, assume the most awkward model positions, and end up looking miserable in your photos. They are doing you a favor, so don’t just snap and run, but spend more time with the people. Ask about an object of their work, give general photo advice, or otherwise engage to lighten up the mood first if required. Don’t be greedy; some people expect a small amount, anything beyond that is up to you. A model release is a good idea when working with portraits. Of course, you can ask to take a photo of street performers or children, but again be ready to make a small donation.

24. Local Customs and Etiquette in Morocco

Moroccan culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European, and African influences. The Moroccan people are known for their warm hospitality, and their low-key etiquette seeks balance and avoids conflict. A peaceful nature, polite manners, and ease of communication are virtues. The Moroccan people love to dance, sing, and play music, and nothing is more inviting than watching armies of camels followed by herders’ songs across endless expanses of dunes. In Morocco, it is crucial to chant for yourself, as little consideration and modesty in this regard will make you well-received by the locals. The expression on the faces of the Moroccan people is of significant value. For example, showing violent anger is very inappropriate. Moroccans tend to have a close personal distance and may appreciate speaking from close. A common greeting is a handshake with the right hand, followed by greetings such as “Salam aleikum” with three kisses on the cheeks. When food is being offered, make sure you only use your right hand, although you may use both hands and a piece of bread to eat. Traditionally, Moroccans see the left hand as unclean. It is good manners to accept Moroccan hospitality immediately, after some polite refusals. Home cooking is common in Morocco, and it is appreciated if you praise your host’s cooking. Casual conversation and the exchange of views are an integral part of a good business relationship, and breaking news from all over the world can be a very appreciated start. On the other hand, avoid public figures or touching the hands of other people in photos, especially at the market. Touching the opposite sex, in particular, can be seen as taboo. If you are taking photographs of local people, it is polite to ask them first. Public displays of affection are not appropriate in Morocco. Be careful about expressing that you are attracted, hugging, or kissing your partner. Homosexuality is a criminal offense in Morocco, although it is still not publicly acknowledged. According to Moroccan law, unmarried couples were in control when they mentioned it or when they had one room that was only available to married couples. Finally, if you respect local customs, you will be good at presenting yourself, and by turning your basic sense of courtesy and respect, the Moroccans you meet on your trip will welcome you with open arms.

25. Navigating Moroccan Markets and Souks

Navigating Moroccan markets and souks. To cut a possible unpleasant situation short, bargaining is an absolute must when it comes to Moroccan markets. Vendors depend on this practice to survive, and you’ll be expected to participate if you want to make a purchase. While some people find it quite intimidating, by the end of your trip, you’ll hopefully find it fun and enlightening. If the vendor doesn’t agree to your set price, be prepared to walk away because they’ll usually call you back offering the ‘better’ price. You’ll even overhear vendors picking up your language and bargaining tactics from your accent and previous haggles.

Be suspicious of overly friendly people offering help or trying to engage you in conversation; this can often lead to a sales pitch. People might expect money or a large sum for the ‘help’. Watch out for pickpockets in places where people naturally put their hands around their wallets, such as the bustling markets of Marrakech and in busy public places. Always be fully aware of your possessions, and if you’re carrying a backpack or handbag, make yourself and your zippers less accessible to potential pickpockets.

26. Exploring Moroccan Festivals and Events

A lot of tourists who come to Morocco like to experience its traditional culture. This is why it is also a great idea to plan your trip to coincide with a festival or event in order to witness firsthand how Moroccans observe their traditions. But other than traditional festivals, you could also experience other events like exhibitions of works of art, theater performances, and other cultural festivities. Some dates in Morocco are based on the lunar calendar. As such, the exact dates of these events may vary.

Eid al-Fitr is one of the two main religious dates for Muslims all over the world. In Morocco, Eid al-Fitr is observed in a big way with an atmosphere similar to what you would normally find during the season of Christmas in Christian countries. The fasting month of Ramadan is a period of reflection but has a festive ending. Special prayers will be held at the mosques, and at the end of the fasting, there will be feasts, and Moroccan families usually eat pastries to mark the end of the Ramadan fast. Sugar cookies, honey cakes, and date cookies are some pastries of special significance during this festive period.

Eid al-Adha is the second most important Muslim festival celebrated each year. The occasion is centered on the act of sacrifice to prove faith and love of Allah. Sacrifice is considered important as a sign of devotion. Upon ending your month-long Ramadan fast, the month of Shawwal will usher in Eid al-Adha, also known as the feast of sacrifice. After which, Moroccans will celebrate the Oued Ifrane Moussem where Muslims from all over the kingdom will come to give their prayers at the shrine of the local marabout. After the religious practices, traditional musical groups and musicians will entertain the public. For two days and two nights, the local and foreign visitors will be able to enjoy the religious celebration together.

27. Conclusion

There might not be a place on this planet that is as spellbinding and dreamy as Morocco. The breathtaking sights, intriguing cultures, jaw-dropping architecture, and delicious flavors will make this country one of the most memorable you will ever visit. Not to mention the lessons you will learn and experiences you will have. You will no longer be strangers to this unique and captivating land. Although Moroccans are very proud of their history, landscape, and architecture, they are always more proud of their hospitality, traditions, and their way of life. Regardless of what you may see, remember that the most beautiful thing about Morocco isn’t the grand palaces and tiny alleyways of the medina. It is the people living there. Although only ten days long, this itinerary will hopefully have given you a great first introduction to the great country of Morocco. It will have provided you with a variety of experiences and activities that touch upon its great culture, unique cities, and landscapes. We hope you have fallen in love with and packed light for this one-of-a-kind country, and that this guide has successfully enabled you to soak up its thrilling essence in a short amount of time. Our adventurers have rounded up the essentials in this comprehensive guide to a 10-day Morocco itinerary because, with all this history, it’s pretty safe to say – there is much to discover and explore, but there is so little time!