Question 1

What is the official currency of Morocco?

Accepted Answer

The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), also written as DH or Dhs. It's a closed currency, so you can't buy it before going to Morocco or take it out. The dirham divides into 100 centimes, though centimes are rarely used in daily transactions. Banknotes come in 20, 50, 100, and 200 dirham denominations, while coins are available in 1, 2, 5, and 10 dirhams.

Question 2

Can I use US dollars or euros in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

While some heavily touristed establishments might accept dollars or euros, you'll receive extremely unfavorable exchange rates—often losing 20-30% of your money's value. I strongly recommend exchanging your currency for dirhams and paying in the local currency. You'll get much better value and avoid confusion. Plus, most local businesses, taxis, and smaller restaurants only accept dirhams anyway.

Question 3

Where should I exchange money in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Using a debit card to withdraw money from an ATM in Morocco is usually the best way to get the best exchange rates without paying any foreign transaction fees. If you need to change money, go to an official Bureau de Change office in the city center. They have excellent rates. Banks also exchange money, but they require more paperwork and take longer. Don't use airport exchange bureaus unless you have to; their rates are 5–10% worse. Don't ever use black market currency exchangers because it's against the law and dangerous.

Question 4

How much cash should I carry daily in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what you plan to do, but I usually bring 300 to 500 dirhams with me when I go to cities where ATMs are easy to find. If you're going to the desert or the countryside, bring a lot more—at least 1,500 to 2,000 dirhams per person. Instead of putting all your cash in one wallet or bag, keep it in several safe places. Small bills are especially helpful for taxis, tips, and small purchases.

Question 5

Are credit cards widely accepted in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Morocco's acceptance of credit cards is not as widespread as it is in Western countries. Most high-end hotels, well-known restaurants, and tour companies accept Visa and Mastercard. American Express is less common. But medinas, souks, local restaurants, taxis, and most real-life experiences still only take cash. Furthermore, when cards are accepted, stores may charge an extra 2% to 5%. I think you should bring cards for emergencies and big purchases, but you should mostly use cash for everyday expenses.

Question 6

What are ATM withdrawal limits in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Most Moroccan ATMs limit withdrawals to 2,000—5,000 dirhams per transaction, depending on the bank. To minimize transaction fees, I withdraw the maximum amount each time. In big cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fes, there are plenty of ATMs. But in rural areas, mountain villages, and desert towns, there aren't as many. Always take out extra cash before going to places that aren't as popular with tourists.

Question 7

Should I notify my bank before traveling to Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, yes! This is crucial. Many banks have fraud detection systems that automatically mark Moroccan transactions as suspicious and freeze your account. I've seen many tourists have trouble with blocked cards, trying to call their banks from Moroccan numbers, and figuring out how to use automated systems. A simple notice before leaving stops this annoying situation from happening at all. Notify both your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates and destinations.

Question 8

How much does a typical meal cost in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Prices can be completely unique depending on where you are and what kind of place it is. A meal at a local café could cost 30 to 50 dirhams ($3 - $5), while a meal at a mid-range restaurant could cost 80 to 150 dirhams ($8 - $15) per person. Restaurants that cater to tourists and have views of major attractions can charge 200–300 dirhams ($20 - $30) or more for similar meals. Sandwiches and other street food cost between 15 and 30 dirhams ($1.5 - $3). When planning a trip to Morocco, you should plan to spend between 100 and 400 dirhams ($10 - $40) a day on food, depending on where you eat and what you like.

Question 9

Is tipping expected in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tipping is customary and forms a significant part of many workers' income. Restaurant servers typically receive 10–15% of the bill, although it's important to confirm if this includes service. Porters at hotels get 20–50 dirhams, bathroom attendants get 2–5 dirhams, and tour guides get 100–200 dirhams for a full day of work. Taxi drivers appreciate small tips for good service, but you don't have to give them. It's important to have small change on hand for tipping so that your travels go smoothly.

Question 10

Can I reconvert leftover dirhams when leaving Morocco?

Accepted Answer

You can legally change back up to 50% of the dirhams you first exchanged, but only if you have the right paperwork showing the original exchange. Keep all of your exchange receipts! Banks and airport exchange offices can convert money back, but the rates are terrible. If you only have a little money left, I suggest using it to buy things at the airport, giving big tips, or saving it for your next trip. For amounts under 500 dirhams, many travelers think that reconversion is more trouble than it's worth.

Question 11

What should I do if an ATM swallows my card in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

This occasionally happens, and it's stressful but manageable. Please promptly take note of the ATM's location and the bank's name. Visit the bank branch during business hours (usually 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m., closed Friday afternoons and weekends) with your passport and explain the situation. Most banks retrieve cards within a few days, though you might need to return multiple times. I carry backup cards from various banks to ensure I have access to funds even if one becomes stuck or blocked.

Question 12

Are money belts necessary in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

While Morocco is generally safe, I do recommend using a money belt or secure pouch for carrying large amounts of cash, backup cards, and passport copies. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded spaces like buses, trains, and busy souks. A money belt isn't about paranoia—it's about peace of mind. I've had one for a long time, and it's helped me out of trouble more than once. Even though they aren't in style, they are very useful for keeping money safe in Morocco.

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