What to Pack

• The best times to visit are March through May and September through November. In June through August, it can get quite hot, and camps in the Sahara close, but it is pleasant along the coastal areas. In December through February, the weather in the Sahara is ideal and you can ski at beautiful resorts in the  cold and snowy Atlas Mountains. 
• Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and the holiest month for Muslims. Observant Muslims, including most guides, fast between sunup and sundown, and many restaurants are closed during that period. The date of Ramadan changes each year so check the calendar when planning your trip. 

• The Moroccan currency is the Dirham (MAD) and is a closed currency, which means that you generally cannot exchange it outside of Morocco. Although it may be possible to purchase it at certain airport foreign exchange desks, we suggest that you simply use an ATM on arrival at the airport or in town. ATMs generally offer a better exchange rate than the currency exchange desks at the airports. There are also ATMs in the towns and cities where we travel. There is no need to carry large amounts of cash with you -- just enough to cover lunch, drinks, souvenirs, etc. Credit cards can be used in Marrakech riads/hotels, upscale restaurants, bars, and large shops. Some of the carpet cooperatives also accept them.
• Note: A few shops, restaurants, cafes, and guest houses only accept cash. The exchange rate is about 1 £=12 MAD, 1$=9MAD but varies. Check a website before leaving for Morocco. 

It’s customary to tip for good service in restaurants, riads, camp and hotel staff. Tips are also appreciated by porters, drivers, guides and for service in hotels, spas, and salons. 

Note: Tips are not included in the prices that we quote. Please follow local customs.