When visiting Morocco, many travelers find the etiquette of tipping in Morocco to be unique and sometimes confusing. Morocco has its own customs around gratuities, which can differ significantly from Western practices. While tipping is common and generally appreciated, it is not mandatory. A small amount can go a long way due to the lower cost of living, and gratuities are typically given for minor services like carrying bags or providing directions. If you’re uncertain about when and how much to tip, understanding these local customs can help you navigate various scenarios confidently.
Tipping is often expected but not required, so you should only give what you feel comfortable with. In Morocco, small amounts are preferred for everyday services, and vendors in marketplaces may inflate prices, expecting some haggling. Bargaining is an accepted and even encouraged part of the culture, allowing visitors to reach a fair deal while respecting local practices. With a bit of knowledge, you can show appreciation in a way that respects Moroccan culture without feeling pressured.
Moroccan Money Basics
Before delving into tipping practices, it’s helpful to understand the Moroccan dirham (MAD or DH), the local currency, and how to handle cash in Morocco. The dirham comes in both coins and bills, with commonly used denominations including 1-dirham, 2-dirham, 5-dirham, and 10-dirham coins, as well as 20, 50, 100, and 200-dirham bills. It’s wise to carry small bills and coins, as getting change can be difficult, especially when paying for smaller items. Although more places now accept card payments, tipping by card is rarely possible, so keeping cash on hand is essential.
Fun fact: Moroccan currency has some historical terms that may still pop up in conversation, like “rials” and “francs,” even though they’re no longer in use. For instance, 20 rials equal 1 dirham, 5 francs make up 1 rial, and 100 francs also equal 1 dirham. While this counting system might seem confusing, visitors aren’t likely to encounter these terms often, as they’re mostly used by locals.
Can I tip and pay with dollars/euros/pounds in Morocco?
When handling day-to-day purchases and tipping, it is best to use the dirham, the local currency. Having dirhams on hand ensures smooth transactions for small expenses and gratuities, as most vendors prefer payments in the local currency. Relying on dirhams helps avoid potential issues with exchange rates or refusals that might arise when using foreign currencies.
However, for significant purchases, such as buying a Moroccan rug, some vendors may accept foreign currencies like euros or dollars. While dirhams remain the preferred choice for smaller transactions, larger purchases might offer more flexibility in payment options. Nonetheless, it is advisable to carry dirhams for all minor expenditures to ensure convenience and ease throughout your stay.
How Can I Get Moroccan Dirhams?
The easiest and most cost-effective way to get Moroccan dirhams is to withdraw cash from an ATM. Moroccan ATMs typically do not charge fees, though it’s essential to check with your home bank about any international transaction fees. Most ATMs in large cities, and even some in smaller towns with major bank branches, allow withdrawals of up to 2000 dirhams per transaction. Let your bank know you’ll be using your card in Morocco to avoid issues. While convenient, frequent ATM withdrawals could result in added fees if you plan to make large purchases. If you prefer not to use ATMs, currency exchange offices are another good option. Rates vary, so compare a few before deciding, and avoid airport exchanges, which often have higher fees. Your hotel or riad may be able to recommend reputable exchange locations.
For those who prefer a bank exchange, note that it can be time-consuming, and some banks may not accept all currencies. Major banks like Attijariwafa Bank, Banque Populaire, and BMCE Bank are reliable choices. If you’re bringing cash to exchange, ensure it’s in the newest and cleanest bill format, as worn or outdated bills may be rejected. Also, remember that the Moroccan dirham is a closed currency, which means it’s generally unavailable outside Morocco and can’t be exchanged back easily after you leave.
How Much Money Should I Bring to Morocco?
The amount of money you bring to Morocco will depend largely on your travel style. While Morocco can be quite affordable for budget-conscious travelers, expenses can add up if you plan to dine at nice restaurants or shop frequently. Tipping is also a customary part of Moroccan culture, so setting aside some funds for small tips throughout your trip is recommended.
If you’re asking, “How much money should I take to Morocco?” the answer isn’t straightforward since it varies greatly based on individual spending habits. Despite a common belief that Morocco is inexpensive, costs can surprise travelers who plan to enjoy higher-end experiences. Preparing a flexible budget that accommodates your planned activities will help ensure a comfortable stay.
Tipping in Morocco: Unique Guide
Tipping in Morocco isn’t mandatory, but it is appreciated if you enjoyed the service. Locals work hard, often in some of the safest cities in the country, and they don’t make a lot of money, so even a small tip goes a long way. When dining out, you can simply round up the bill, or leave about 10% as a general rule. If the service was outstanding, consider tipping 15% to 20%.
Morocco has a tipping culture, so gratuities are common, though generally modest. People who you may want to tip include waiters, spa and salon staff, drivers, hotel staff, tour guides, and other service workers. The amount can vary depending on the service and quality you experience, but tipping is always a nice way to show your appreciation.
How Much Should I Tip in Morocco?
In Morocco, tipping isn’t as high as in some Western countries like the U.S., where tips can go up to 20%. Instead, tips in Morocco are given to reward extra effort and are usually smaller amounts. Here’s a quick guide on how to tip in different situations:
Tipping In restaurants
In restaurants, if the bill is small, it’s common to round up to the nearest whole number. For example, if your bill is 172 dirhams, leaving 200 dirhams is a good way to show appreciation for good service. In upscale restaurants, a tip of 10% is usually expected.
Don’t expect the server to come after you to pay the check. You can stay as long as you want, and payments are typically made at the front counter, not at the table. It’s better to give the tip directly to the server instead of leaving it on the table. Saying “chukron bezef” (thank you very much) with your tip will surely bring a smile.
Taxi Drivers
When taking a taxi in Morocco, it’s common to round up the fare or add a few dirhams as a tip. For example, if the meter reads 20 dirhams, giving 23 dirhams is a nice gesture. I personally follow this rule whenever the driver turns on the meter and is honest with me
Private Drivers
When hiring a private driver, tip based on the distance traveled and the level of service. A driver providing a full day of service deserves a higher tip than one for a one-way trip. For group tours, tips are usually smaller since drivers are paid by the tour operator.
For excellent service, tip around $10 to $20 USD per day per person. Local hosts and drivers work hard and handle a lot of responsibility.
how much to tip in Morocco hotels and riads
In Moroccan hotels and riads, tipping for good service is customary. You might consider tipping the manager, cook, and housekeeping staff based on your stay length and any special requests they fulfill. For example, if someone brings your bags to the room or there’s valet service, a tip of around 20 dirhams is a kind gesture. While the manager may be the most visible person, support staff often works the hardest. If you trust the manager to share the tip fairly, giving it to them can be a good choice. When traveling with Morocco Dream Safari, your guide or driver will help you direct your tips to the right people. I suggest tipping around 100–150 dirhams for a 1-2 night stay.
If you have any additional meals not included in your stay, it’s best to follow the restaurant’s tipping guidelines. Remember that the people behind the scenes, like the kitchen staff, also contribute significantly to your experience, though they may be less visible. In many cases, men are in the front, but hardworking women are often part of the team as well.
Tipping on Tours
Tipping on tours varies by type and experience. For city tours, a tip of 5-10% of the tour price is appreciated if you had a good time. However, if the experience was unsatisfactory, you aren’t expected to tip. Multi-day tours, such as 5 days desert tour from Fes to Marrakech it’s customary to tip the guide or the driver at the end, with the amount around 100DH – 200DH per day / per client for excellent service. If the service didn’t meet your expectations, you’re not obligated to tip, though a small amount may subtly convey your feedback.
Tip the Moroccan City Guides
City guides in Morocco come in various styles, each offering a unique perspective on the city you’re visiting. Some guides focus on historical and cultural insights, walking you through landmarks and sharing stories from the past. Others might concentrate more on modern interests, like shopping districts, local crafts, or culinary hotspots. When booking with Morocco Dream Safari, your local driver will coordinate with your city guide to ensure your tour is aligned with your preferences whether you’re keen on learning about Morocco’s ancient sites, exploring its bustling souks, or a mix of both. For a guide who goes above and beyond to meet your expectations, a tip of around 100-150 dirhams is a fair and appreciated gesture
Tipping Camel Guides
Camel guides, often young locals from desert regions, work long hours and rely heavily on tips rather than a regular salary. They’ll sometimes display fossils or small trinkets for sale at the end of a camel tour. If you’re pleased with the experience, a tip of around 100 dirhams is appropriate. Alternatively, you could simply give them the amount you would pay for one of the items and let them keep the item as a gesture of goodwill.
Tipping at Spas and Hammams
When visiting a spa, especially for treatments like massages or hammams, tipping around 25-30 dirhams for the person who assists you is standard. Be cautious about some “Asian” spas or others that might act as fronts for illicit activities. Ask for recommendations from trusted sources to ensure you visit reputable establishments.
FAQ: Clear answer common questions about tipping customs in Morocco
Tipping is generally expected in Morocco, especially in service industries. While it’s not mandatory, it is considered polite to leave a tip as a sign of appreciation for good service. Many workers in Morocco rely on tips to supplement their income, so even small amounts are appreciated.
For tour guides, it’s common to tip around 50-100 MAD (5-10 USD) per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour. Drivers usually receive a smaller tip, around 20-50 MAD (2-5 USD) per day. If you’re on a multi-day tour, tipping at the end of the trip is generally preferred.
Yes, tipping in hotels is appreciated. For bellhops, 10-20 MAD per bag is customary. Housekeeping staff may be tipped around 10-20 MAD per day. At the end of your stay, you can also leave a small amount at the front desk to be distributed among staff.
Tipping taxi drivers is not obligatory, but rounding up the fare to the nearest 2 or 3 MAD is a common practice. If the driver provides extra assistance or service, a small tip is appropriate.
Moroccan dirhams (MAD) are preferred for tips, but some service providers may accept small amounts in USD or EUR, especially in tourist areas. It’s best to exchange some money into dirhams for tipping convenience.
In restaurants, tipping around 10-15% of the bill is standard. If the service charge is already included, you can leave a smaller tip, such as 5-10%, as an additional gesture of gratitude.
Final Thoughts on Tipping in Morocco
In summary, tipping in Morocco is a great way to show appreciation for good service, even though it’s not mandatory. While small tips are common, you should always give what feels comfortable. Tipping helps you connect with locals and shows respect for their hard work.
By understanding the local tipping customs, you can enjoy your trip with confidence. Whether you’re exploring markets, dining out, or taking a desert tour, a little gratuity can go a long way in making your experience even more memorable.
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