Budget, Transport and Daily Life
Prices, transport and local life
Travelling in Morocco also offers the opportunity to experience a vibrant and accessible everyday life, full of contrasts.
– In terms of budget, €1 is approximately 11 Moroccan dirhams (MAD). For ease of calculation, €1 may be considered as roughly 10 MAD.
– The minimum wage (SMIG) is around 3,420 dirhams (approximately €315), providing a useful reference for understanding the local cost of living.
– In urban areas, small taxis are widely available, affordable, and equipped with meters. They generally accommodate up to three passengers.
– Shared taxis are a common feature of transport in Morocco, operating on fixed fares (approximately 7 MAD) and carrying up to six passengers.
– Urban buses offer an authentic travel experience. They do not always follow fixed timetables and operate at a flexible pace. A single fare is approximately 5 dirhams.
– Driving in Morocco can be an experience in itself, with busy traffic conditions and distinctive local driving habits making each journey unique.
Traditions and pace of life in Morocco
– Tipping, known locally as “bakchich”, is generally around 10% of the total bill.
– During Ramadan, daily life in Morocco slows significantly.
– Some cafés and restaurants may close or reduce their opening hours during this period. Visiting at this time remains possible, provided visitors adopt a respectful attitude and avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
– Daily life is structured around the five calls to prayer made by the muezzin. The first call occurs at sunrise, while the final call marks the end of the day at sunset.
Useful information and practical advice
– Tap water is generally considered safe to drink; however, bottled water is recommended as a precaution.
– Although increasingly rare, unofficial guides may still be encountered. It is advisable to exercise caution with unsolicited offers.
– Museums and monuments are typically open daily, except in specific circumstances.
– “Choukran” means “thank you” in Arabic and is one of the most useful basic expressions to learn.
