Frequently Asked Questions

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We're Hamid and Libby, based in Marrakech. Hamid is a nationally licensed Moroccan guide with deep roots in the High Atlas Mountains and Amazigh heritage. Libby is an American who fell in love with Hamid and his country. Together we specialize in helping American and global travelers experience Morocco the way it actually is - not the version designed just for tourists. Every trip we lead is personal, thoughtful, and built on genuine local relationships.

Reach out through our website contact form, send us a message on Instagram at @happynomadsmorocco, or find us on WhatsApp at +212 658 881 140. Tell us a little about yourself and what you're dreaming about for your Moroccan adventure, and we'll go from there.

It starts with a conversation. Reach out through our website form, Instagram, or email and tell us a little about your group, your travel dates, and what you're hoping to experience. From there, we will put together a custom itinerary based on your interests, budget, and travel style. We'll share it and work with you to make sure it meets your expectations of exploring Morocco!

Absolutely. Customization is the whole point! Whether you want more time in the souks, a cooking or pottery class, a visit to the desert or the beach, or a slower pace with long lunches and mint tea, we'll build it around what matters to you. Just tell us what you're interested in and we'll take it from there.

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the sweet spots - warm, sunny days without the intense heat of summer. They are also the busiest times! Winter is mild and often beautiful, especially for hiking. Summer is hot but manageable if you plan around it. Honestly, Morocco has something to offer year-round!

We can usually make it work even on short notice, but we recommend reaching out at least two to three months ahead to make sure we can secure the experiences and accommodations you want. If you are coming during a peak period, the earlier the better.

Tipping is customary in Morocco and genuinely appreciated. For day guides, 100-200 MAD per day is a reasonable guideline. For drivers, 50-100 MAD per day. For meals and small services, rounding up or leaving a small amount goes a long way.

Morocco is a welcoming, hospitable country and a very safe destination for travelers. Marrakech is one of the most visited cities in Africa, and the country has a well-established tourism infrastructure across places like Fes, Casablance, and even the Sahara desert. Like anywhere, common sense goes a long way. Be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, and follow your guide's lead. Our travelers consistently tell us they felt comfortable and well taken care of throughout their trips.

A little French or Darija is helpful, but certainly not required. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and Hamid is fluent in English, French, Darija, and Amazigh (Tamazight). We'll handle the logistics and communications so that you can focus on enjoying the experience.

Morocco is a Muslim country and dressing modestly is a sign of respect, especially outside of touristy areas. For women, this means covering your shoulders and knees in rural areas - lightweight scarves and linen pants are your best friends. You don't need to cover your hair. For men, long pants are appreciated in more traditional settings. But you will see it all, from bikinis on the beach in Essaouira to tank tops in the medina in Marrakech. You should do what's comfortable for you, but understand the context of the country you are in.

Generally yes, and Morocco is extraordinarily photogenic. In tourist areas like the souks and major landmarks, you'll have plenty of opportunity. Outside of those areas, in residential neighborhoods, at local markets, or when photographing people, always ask first. A smile and a gesture go a long way. People are often happy to be photographed when you take a moment to ask first.

We'd actually encourage you not to avoid it! Ramadan is one of the most meaningful times to experience Morocco. The energy after sunset, the communal iftar meals, the late nights -  it's unlike anything else. Some restaurants and shops will have limited daytime hours, but tourist areas typically remain open and operational. It's a beautiful time to visit if you approach it with curiosity and respect.

Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is king in the souks, for small vendors, tips, and many local experiences. We recommend arriving with some cash to exchange or withdrawing from an ATM at the airport.

Morocco is more pet friendly than most travelers expect, particularly in outdoor settings. Day hikes in the Atlas Mountains, garden experiences, and some riads welcome dogs. That said, it requires advance planning - not every accommodation or activity is set up for pets, and we'd want to design your itinerary accordingly. You'll need to check with your country to see not only the process for entering Morocco but the requirement for returning with your dog. Reach out and let's talk through what's possible.