Pre-Trip Preparation for Morocco

Before embarking on a journey to Morocco, proper preparation is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The following steps and precautions should be taken into consideration:

• Vaccinations

  Ensure that necessary vaccinations are up to date. These may include:

  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Tetanus

• First-Aid Kit

  It is recommended to pack a comprehensive first-aid kit. Include items such as:

  • Pain relievers (e.g., Tylenol, Advil)
  • Bandages and sterile swabs
  • Cleansing lotion (e.g., iodine swab)
  • Dressing materials, including bandages, gauze, and scissors
  • Protective gear, such as sunglasses and protective glasses
  • Sunscreen (depending on the time of year)
  • Rehydration kit (ORT solutions)

• Clothing and Footwear

  Comfortable, breathable clothing is essential for the hot daytime temperatures (around 19°C) and cold desert nights (possibly dropping to 0°C).

  Ensure you have durable, comfortable shoes suitable for long-distance trekking and navigating uneven terrain.

• Documentation

  Double-check all necessary documents, including your passport and IDs.

• Currency

  Morocco’s local currency is the Dirham (MAD). You can withdraw currency from local ATMs, though be aware that exchange rates may be higher, and additional fees may apply.

  Alternatively, you can exchange currency at a Bureau de Change. Keep in mind that some places may have long queues.

Traveling to Morocco

Excitement filled the air as I boarded the plane in Toronto, en route to Casablanca, with a stopover in Paris. The airport transit was smooth, and I was prepared for the long journey ahead, which required several long walks between terminals.

• In-Flight Considerations

  • Stay well-hydrated during the flight.
  • Regularly get up and walk around to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
  • Adjust your sleep pattern to minimize jet lag, especially if the flight is particularly long.
  • Ensure enough legroom when selecting your seat to avoid cramping.
  • Upon arrival in Casablanca, customs and immigration checks were seamless. After meeting our friend at the airport, we made our way to a café for a refreshing introduction to Moroccan culture. Here, we were served local delicacies, including coffee and sweetened hot mint tea — a national beverage known for its generous sugar content.

  Caution: For those with diabetes or metabolic disorders, it’s advisable to be mindful of the sugar content in drinks and avoid overindulgence.

• Health Precautions

  During our visit to the café, we also observed a number of stray cats. While these animals may appear charming, travelers should avoid petting them to prevent bites, which could lead to infections such as rabies or tetanus.

Journey to Rabat

We left Casablanca and drove through the industrial coastal town of Mohammedia, where a distinct smell from nearby processing plants filled the air. The drive was uneventful, with smooth roads and little traffic. However, it’s worth noting that driving at night in Morocco can be hazardous due to unfamiliar terrains, differing traffic rules, and language barriers.

• Overnight in Rabat

  We spent the night at the Marriott Hotel in Rabat, where we experienced a surprising low cost for a meal — approximately 90 Dirhams (around $12-13 CAD for two people). In the morning, we embarked on a sightseeing tour of the city, beginning with the Hassan Tower, a historic architectural marvel. Close by is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an exquisite site with ornate gold-plated walls and a green rooftop that signifies power and prestige in Morocco.

• Travel Tip

  Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear for long walks and be cautious of tripping hazards during your visits.

• Exploring the Old City of Rabat

  The narrow alleyways of the old city were bustling with vendors selling fresh produce and local goods, including freshly squeezed orange juice and pomegranate juice with ginger. These refreshing drinks were delicious but should be consumed with caution, as drinking from roadside vendors can expose you to health risks such as traveler’s diarrhea or parasitic infections. It’s advisable to consume only peeled fruit or bottled drinks, and avoid water from untrusted sources.

  After our tour, we visited the fish market by the seaside and enjoyed a variety of freshly caught seafood.

Trip to Fez

We continued our journey to Fez, passing through beautiful countryside filled with agricultural landscapes. Along the way, we stopped at Moulay Yacoub, where we enjoyed a relaxing soak at the Vichy Thermalia Spa Hotel, followed by a refreshing massage.

Arriving in Fez late in the evening, we were greeted by the charming and historic Riad El Amine Fez, a traditional hotel with exquisite decor, high ceilings, and beautifully tiled floors. The Moroccan-style welcome included sweetened mint tea — a true cultural experience.

• Travel Tip

  When choosing accommodation, it is crucial to do thorough research to ensure comfort and safety. Sometimes, even areas that seem unconventional can lead to surprisingly beautiful stays, as was the case with Riad El Amine.

• Exploring Fez

  Fez’s Medina (the local market) is a bustling and vibrant space full of shops, haggling vendors, and street food. However, travelers should exercise caution here to secure their valuables, as pickpocketing is common. Bargaining is a must when shopping.

  One of the highlights of our visit was the leather factory, where we saw traditional Moroccan leather processing. The smell from the tanning process was strong, but the products, including jackets and purses, were of exceptional quality.

Fez to Marrakesh

Our journey continued with a long drive from Fez to Marrakesh. Travel advice: When covering long distances, ensure that you get adequate rest the night before and take regular breaks during the journey. We encountered beautiful landscapes, including vast olive groves and cultivated land, and as we neared Marrakesh, the terrain began to change.

• Arrival in Marrakesh

  We arrived in Marrakesh and stayed at the beautiful TIGMIZA Boutique Hotel & Spa. Later that evening, our tour guide took us to the night market, where we experienced the lively atmosphere filled with performers, food vendors, and street entertainers.

  Caution: Travelers should be cautious in crowded areas, as the risk of losing belongings is high. Be mindful of food hygiene, and avoid consuming raw or unwashed food from street vendors.

Desert Adventure

We embarked on a desert adventure, enjoying activities such as an ATV ride and a camel ride through the desert dunes. The ATV ride was exhilarating but challenging due to the uneven terrain. Protective gear, including helmets and goggles, was provided, but safety precautions should always be followed closely to avoid injury.

The camel ride through the desert was peaceful and refreshing, especially in the cooler evening temperatures.

• Conclusion

  After a memorable experience in the desert, we returned to Marrakesh and later traveled back to Casablanca. Casablanca offers a mix of modern and historical attractions, including the magnificent Hassan II Mosque and the local beaches. The trip concluded with a return to the airport for our departure.

  This journey through Morocco was filled with cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and moments of both relaxation and adventure. Throughout the trip, maintaining vigilance, staying hydrated, and respecting local customs were key to ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

Travel Tips: Handling Animals Safely

When traveling, be cautious around animals. In this region, you’ll often encounter animals like cats, dogs, camels, falcons, and snakes, especially used for entertainment. Here’s why you should be careful:

• Cats

  Their bites and scratches can lead to infections like cellulitis, tetanus, and even rabies. It’s important to clean wounds immediately if you’re scratched or bitten.

• Dogs

  Dog bites can also cause infections such as cellulitis and tetanus, and the biggest danger is rabies. Rabies is deadly with no cure, so avoid any contact with stray dogs and report bites right away.

• Camels

  Injuries from camels are common, especially from falls or being kicked by a camel. These injuries can lead to infections like cellulitis and tetanus. Camel falls can also cause serious head or spinal cord injuries, which could lead to paralysis. Always follow safety rules when riding camels to minimize risks.

• Falcons

  While majestic, falcons can cause serious scratches or even eye injuries. If you’re handling one, be sure to do so with care to avoid being injured.

• Snakes

  Some local snakes, like cobras, are venomous and can cause paralysis or death if not treated quickly. If you see a snake, especially one being used for entertainment, keep your distance!

• General Advice

  Always be cautious when interacting with animals. If you’re unsure of how to handle them, or if you’re in doubt, it’s best to avoid contact. Stay safe and follow local guidelines for interacting with wildlife.