Question 1

Can you wear jeans in Morocco — and what should you not wear?

Accepted Answer

Jeans are perfect — locals live in them. The practical line is simpler than people fear: shoulders and knees covered reads respectful in medinas and rural areas, beachwear belongs at the beach or pool, and there is no legal dress code for visitors. Women are not required to cover their hair. In high summer, light long layers beat shorts for comfort anyway.

Question 2

What languages do Moroccans speak?

Accepted Answer

Darija (Moroccan Arabic) and Amazigh are the native tongues; French is the business second language almost everywhere; Spanish lives on in the north; and English is now common in tourism and among the young. In any hotel, restaurant or souk you will manage in English or French — and two words of Darija ('salam', 'shukran') open doors.

Question 3

How should I dress?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable and a notch modest: shoulders and knees covered is the reliable rule for medinas and villages, for both men and women. Nobody expects travellers to dress like locals — resorts, riad pools and hammams have their own relaxed codes.

Question 4

Can I take photos of people?

Accepted Answer

Ask first — a smile and a gesture with the camera is enough — and accept a no gracefully. Market performers and water-sellers who pose expect a small tip. Your guide will tell you where photography is sensitive (some souk artisans, checkpoints, and anyone who has said no).

Question 5

Can non-Muslims enter mosques?

Accepted Answer

Generally no, with one grand exception on our routes: the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which runs guided visits and is worth planning a morning around. Madrasas (Koranic schools) and their spectacular courtyards are open to all.

Question 6

Is alcohol available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in licensed restaurants, most riads and hotel bars, and supermarkets with a licence — Morocco even has its own vineyards, which our coastal 16-day route visits. Drinking in the street is not done; in Ramadan, service is discreet and some venues pause.

Question 7

What languages are spoken? Will I manage in English?

Accepted Answer

Darija (Moroccan Arabic) and Amazigh are the home languages; French is everywhere; English is now common in tourism. Your driver-guide speaks English and/or French — and a shukran (thank you) or salam from you opens every door a little wider.

Question 8

What is the etiquette around mint tea and hospitality?

Accepted Answer

Accepting a glass of tea is accepting welcome — take at least a sip even if you refuse a refill. Tea poured from a height is pride, not showing off. In homes, expect to remove shoes, eat with the right hand from shared dishes, and be offered more food than any human can finish.

Question 9

How does Friday affect the trip?

Accepted Answer

Friday is the main prayer day: some souk stalls close around midday and couscous appears on every family table (ask your guide to find you a good one). Sites and museums stay open; the rhythm just softens for a few hours.

Question 10

Any gestures or topics to avoid?

Accepted Answer

Public displays of affection are kept minimal, and conversations about the monarchy and religion deserve a guest's tact. That short list aside, Moroccans are famously warm hosts who love a genuine question about their country.

Culture & etiquette

Need help preparing your trip?

9. Culture & etiquette