Are you planning a trip to Morocco? Whether you’re strolling through the lively souks, dining at a rooftop cafe, or taking a taxi through the medina, managing your money properly will make your trip much more enjoyable. Having lived here my entire life, I know that many travelers struggle with payment and exchange issues. So I want to share my experience and tips with you to make your troubles less severe.
Handling cash in Morocco can be tricky for travelers. here’s the best ways to exchange money, avoid scams, and manage payments easily during your trip:
1. Moroccan Dirham (MAD), the national currency
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Since it is a closed currency, you cannot exchange it abroad. It’s best to carry Euros or US dollars with you and exchange them at a bank or official exchange office as soon as you arrive at the airport. There are ATMs in most cities, but cash is always good, especially in rural areas or small towns.
From my experience, the exchange offices in the medinas usually offer better exchange rates than hotels or airports. So I always recommend asking locals where to go.
2. Handling Cash in Morocco: Why It’s Essential
While large hotels, fancy restaurants, and modern shops accept credit and debit cards, handling cash in Morocco is still the easiest way to pay in most places. You should always carry cash with you when shopping in traditional markets, taking taxis, or eating at local restaurants. Small bills and coins are also helpful – merchants and taxi drivers often don’t have change for larger notes.
I’ve seen countless times visitors get stuck because they only have a 200 Mad note and no one has change. When I take a taxi or go to the souks, I always make sure to carry small bills with me to make transactions easier.
3. Where to Exchange Money
Banks and exchange offices – the safest places with reliable exchange rates.
ATMs – convenient, but your local bank may charge a fee.
Hotels and airports – convenient, but exchange rates are usually poor.
Avoid Street Money Changers – There’s a risk of scams or getting the wrong currency.
I once met a traveler who exchanged money with a street vendor, only to realize later that he was given the wrong currency. It’s always better to go to official places, even if the rate isn’t the absolute best. It’s worth it for peace of mind.
4. Using Credit and Debit Cards
- Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted.
- Before ordering or buying anything, always check if the bank card is accepted.
- Some stores charge a small fee for card payments.
- Contactless payments are not common. So be prepared to insert your card and enter your PIN.
Personally, I don’t rely too much on my cards for everyday purchases. Even in the cities, there are still many shops and restaurants that prefer to use cash. Therefore, I recommend that tourists do the same.
5. Mobile Payments and Digital Wallets
Apple Pay and Google Pay are not widely used in Morocco. While there are local mobile payment services, they are mainly for locals. If you come to visit, stick to cash and bank card payments.
Even as a local, I rarely saw people making mobile payments outside of the big cities. You should assume that these devices don’t work and carry replacements with you.
6. Bargaining and Tipping Customs
Bargaining – a normal part of shopping in souks and markets. Dealers usually expect a certain willingness to negotiate, so don’t hesitate and be polite.
Tipping – while tipping is not mandatory, it is still appreciated. In restaurants, 5-10% is common, and a tip (a few dirhams) is a nice gesture for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and guides.
7. Avoiding Scams and Common Pitfalls
- Always double-check your change to make sure it’s correct.
- Avoid exchanging currency at street vendors.
- If the taxi doesn’t have a meter, negotiate a price before you go.
One tip I always recommend to travelers: ask a local how much something should cost before you buy it. Whether it’s a taxi or an item at the market, knowing the average price can help you avoid overpaying.
8. Handling Cash in Morocco: How much cash should you carry?
Your daily budget depends on how you travel. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Economy travelers: 250-400 MAD (~$25-$40) per day
- Mid-range travelers: 500-1000 MAD (~$50-$100) per day
- Luxury travelers: 1500+ MAD (~$150+) per day
I recommend carrying a mix of cash and cards. However, it’s recommended to carry at least 200-300 MAD in cash per day, just in case.
Final Tips from a Local
- Always keep small bills handy for taxis, tips, and market shopping.
- Use ATMs in safe areas like banks and malls.
- Inform your bank before traveling to avoid issues with your card.
- Check exchange rates beforehand to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll master handling cash in Morocco with confidence. But if you’d rather not worry about the details, Mory has you covered. Enjoy your trip, embrace the culture, and let us take care of the rest so you can focus on making the most of your Moroccan adventure.
