Preparing Your Trip to Morocco

💱 1. Currency Exchange

No need to bring dirhams from your country. Exchange directly in Morocco (banks or exchange offices) or withdraw from an ATM. Euros are almost always accepted, but they round the amount (you lose a few cents per euro, never more than 10; it’s often worth it, for example for the first taxi). The difference between exchange offices is minimal (not worth overthinking). It’s better to exchange small amounts at a time, as there is no commission.

Important: foreign coins are not accepted, only banknotes.

📱 2. Phone and Internet

Buy a local SIM card (Maroc Telecom or Orange). The SIM usually costs around €5 and data around €1/GB. With 5 GB you can make WhatsApp calls, video calls, and share data with your group. Make sure everything is working before leaving the shop; normally, the person who sells you the card will help you set it up.

🚖 3. Transportation in Moroccoco

• Bus: inexpensive; good for short to medium distances (up to ~200 km), makes stops and is slower, but a truly authentic experience.
• Private taxi: comfortable; expensive if there are 1–2 people, cost-effective if distances are not too long and there are more than 2 of you. Examples from Chefchaouen: Tetouan ~€25, Tangier ~€60–70, Tetouan Airport ~€40, Asilah ~€80.
• Shared taxi: widely used by locals; economical and efficient for routes such as Chefchaouen–Tetouan, Tetouan–Tangier, Tangier–Asilah.
• Urban taxi: €1–2 per person; the ride usually costs between €2 and €3; maximum 3 passengers; they may pick up others along the way. If there are fewer than 3 of you and you want it just for yourself, negotiate the fare.
• Train: high-speed Tangier–Casablanca (~2 h 10, €12–25). To Marrakech, transfer in Casablanca (+~3 h).
• Plane: a little-known, fast, and inexpensive option for long distances (frequent domestic flights; from ~€20 per leg depending on route and date). There is a wide range of connections. Ryanair offers numerous routes.

🤝 4. Culture and Customs

Dress respectfully, especially outside tourist areas. Greeting with “Salam Aleikum” is always helpful. Agree on the fare before getting into a taxi if it does not use a meter.

🔒 5. Safety

Chefchaouen is peaceful, but as in any tourist destination, take care of your belongings in crowded areas and markets.

🍽 6. Gastronomy (and a Happy Stomach)

The biggest risk is tap water. Avoid salads and raw foods unless you know they are washed with bottled water. Enjoy tajine, couscous, pastilla, and freshly baked bread. Fish is fantastic in all coastal areas. Pastry shops are a delight and very inexpensive, and you can find plenty of savory snacks. Fresh juices are exquisite.

Approximate prices; they may vary depending on season and time. Always confirm beforehand.