It is therefore important to be aware of this, as well as to keep in mind that the context affects subjectively the assessment.
Here are some guidelines to follow during your stay:
- It is always preferable to be discrete and courteous in all situations. Remember that you are a guest.
- Avoid bringing up controversial political or religious topics.
- Respect the essential ideals of Royalty and Islam. They are sacred to both the people and the authorities.
- It is strongly advised not to photograph religious buildings, military infrastructure, or official buildings.
- Avoid photographing anyone without their permission or taking many pictures of the same person. This might be considered an assault.
- Ask for permission to photograph a person or a private structure. If your request is rejected, do not insist and do not offer money to do it.
- Avoid giving money or gifts to youngsters in rural villages. They will eventually drop out of school and begin begging if they become used to it.
- Respect other’s privacy and avoid disturbing the environment, especially in rural communities.
- Hikes, picnics, treks, and camping should all be done with awareness for the biosphere. Some environments are extremely vulnerable and vital to the locals.
- If you are invited to a family meal, you must wait until the father of the house says “bismillah” (in the name of God).
- Take off your shoes before entering rooms.
- Do not provide alcohol to your guiding team when hiking or trekking.
- Non-Muslims are not permitted to visit mosques or mausoleum burial areas.
- Any attitude that could be interpreted as immoral should be avoided.
- Respect the times of prayer, especially that of noon every Friday.
- You must wear appropriate clothing and avoid dressing provocatively.
- Nudism and monokinis are illegal in lakes and swimming pools.
- It is not advisable to consume alcohol in public or in the open air.
- Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. As a result, it is necessary to follow the mentioned instructions carefully during this month. During the day, you should avoid eating or smoking on the street.
- The feast of Al Adha, commonly known as the feast of the sheep, is highly respected by Muslims. It is not a good idea to mock or criticize the practice.
- Tips should be reasonable and depending on your level of satisfaction with the service. This is not a requirement, but rather an act of appreciation of the service.
Check out with your travel agency or on institutional websites for more information.
Criminal practices
Local public order must not be broken:
- Homosexuality is a crime in Morocco, punished by three years in prison, while heterosexual harassment outside of marriage is illegal. Prostitution is also illegal.
- Rape, indecent assault, debauchery, and depravity are all punishable by severe penalties under local law. If the victim is a kid (under 18), the penalties, which can include up to 20 years in jail, are doubled. Perpetrators of pedophilia are sentenced to prison terms ranging from 5 to 30 years. Prosecutions of foreigners suspected of sexual crimes are becoming more common.
- The selling and use of drugs are forbidden. Possession of drugs, even in small amounts, is frequently subject to imprisonment.
- The same is applicable for the transportation of drugs, even if the carrier is unaware.
- We highly advise avoiding accepting packages or items to be transported abroad at the request of people met by coincidence during a tourist visit.
- Other, less serious crimes, such as issuing bounced checks, are punishable by heavy fines and prison.
