Bonjour,
Une question toute simple, dont connaitre la réponse me permettra de rester courtois :
Qu'est-ce qu'on ne marchande pas à marrakech?
Merci!
Original post
Discuter les tarifs au Maroc (à Marrakech en particulier)
by Géodésien
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
si il y a une etiquette cela ne se marchande pas
SALUT !!
Un prix affiché d'un menu ou chambre d'hotel !! ??
Mais tout est possible même un PV ça se marchande !! Demandez le prix du taxi avant de monter ..etc.. Même un article de boutique avec étiqette de prix
C'est aussi un sport nationnal que de marchander Bon marchandage !!
Cordialement de http://papyetmamyenvoyage.oldiblog.com/
PAPY
Un prix affiché d'un menu ou chambre d'hotel !! ??
Mais tout est possible même un PV ça se marchande !! Demandez le prix du taxi avant de monter ..etc.. Même un article de boutique avec étiqette de prix
C'est aussi un sport nationnal que de marchander Bon marchandage !!
Cordialement de http://papyetmamyenvoyage.oldiblog.com/
PAPY
En Afrique tout est possible, mais rien n'est certain ....!!
http://papyetmamyenvoyage.kazeo.com/
Bonjour,
des tonnes de choses ne se négocient pas : La plupart des commerces d'alimentation, bureau de tabac, pharmacie, services publics, bus, train, taxi (s'il met le compteur), repas au resto, boissons au café, glaces, ....
Mais pour ma part je n'hésite pas à négocier beaucoup de choses, Voiture de loc, prix des hotels, prix des excursions, des circuits, prix avec étiquettes au centre artisanal, puisque c'est toujours plus cher que ce qu'un négociateur moyen en tirerait au souk. Tout, dans le souk . Magasins non alimentaires, photo electro, vetements et chaussures et presque tout le reste
Mais cela peut etre une négociation symbolique, une suggestion de faire un prix, un encouragement à faire une remise sur quantité, tout est dans la nuance !
Et je ne négocie que lorsque le prix de départ proposé, est "honnète", pas un prix foutage de gueule pour américain.
Personne ne t'oblige à négocier, pour une petite période de vacances, cela est obligatoire seulement pour les articles souvenirs dans le souk. Ne surtout pas tomber dans l'exces inverse de certains qui avaient lu que tout se négociait et que l'on passait pour un "touriste" si on ne le faisait pas, et qui marchandaient hautainement dans les boulangeries .
des tonnes de choses ne se négocient pas : La plupart des commerces d'alimentation, bureau de tabac, pharmacie, services publics, bus, train, taxi (s'il met le compteur), repas au resto, boissons au café, glaces, ....
Mais pour ma part je n'hésite pas à négocier beaucoup de choses, Voiture de loc, prix des hotels, prix des excursions, des circuits, prix avec étiquettes au centre artisanal, puisque c'est toujours plus cher que ce qu'un négociateur moyen en tirerait au souk. Tout, dans le souk . Magasins non alimentaires, photo electro, vetements et chaussures et presque tout le reste
Mais cela peut etre une négociation symbolique, une suggestion de faire un prix, un encouragement à faire une remise sur quantité, tout est dans la nuance !
Et je ne négocie que lorsque le prix de départ proposé, est "honnète", pas un prix foutage de gueule pour américain.
Personne ne t'oblige à négocier, pour une petite période de vacances, cela est obligatoire seulement pour les articles souvenirs dans le souk. Ne surtout pas tomber dans l'exces inverse de certains qui avaient lu que tout se négociait et que l'on passait pour un "touriste" si on ne le faisait pas, et qui marchandaient hautainement dans les boulangeries .
D'abord merci à tous pour ces réponses.
Personne ne t'oblige à négocier, pour une petite période de vacances, cela est obligatoire seulement pour les articles souvenirs dans le souk. Ne surtout pas tomber dans l'exces inverse de certains qui avaient lu que tout se négociait et que l'on passait pour un "touriste" si on ne le faisait pas, et qui marchandaient hautainement dans les boulangeries .
Je ne me sens nullement obligé, mais étant donné mon affinité à l'exercice du commerce, je ne refuse pas une négociation. Et en qualité de négociateur, il ne faut évidemment pas tomber sur l'ecueil que tu dénonces. Qu'en est-il sur la place jemâa el fna? Lorsque tu dis "alimentaire", cela concerne-t-il aussi les marchands de la place? Les vendeurs d'oranges préssées pour l'exemple?
Et une question subsidiaire : Est-ce qu'on négocie en "vouvoyant", ou en "tutoyant"? Le tutoiement me semble le plus évident...
Personne ne t'oblige à négocier, pour une petite période de vacances, cela est obligatoire seulement pour les articles souvenirs dans le souk. Ne surtout pas tomber dans l'exces inverse de certains qui avaient lu que tout se négociait et que l'on passait pour un "touriste" si on ne le faisait pas, et qui marchandaient hautainement dans les boulangeries .
Je ne me sens nullement obligé, mais étant donné mon affinité à l'exercice du commerce, je ne refuse pas une négociation. Et en qualité de négociateur, il ne faut évidemment pas tomber sur l'ecueil que tu dénonces. Qu'en est-il sur la place jemâa el fna? Lorsque tu dis "alimentaire", cela concerne-t-il aussi les marchands de la place? Les vendeurs d'oranges préssées pour l'exemple?
Et une question subsidiaire : Est-ce qu'on négocie en "vouvoyant", ou en "tutoyant"? Le tutoiement me semble le plus évident...
**** Les vendeurs d'oranges préssées pour l'exemple? ***
Comme les marchands de fruits secs, les prix affichés étant "honnètes" il ne me viendrait pas à l'idée de les négocier, hors suggestion, avec le sourire, de remise sur quantité, si tu viens avec un groupe de 10 ! Je me répéte, tout est dans la nuance.
Comme les marchands de fruits secs, les prix affichés étant "honnètes" il ne me viendrait pas à l'idée de les négocier, hors suggestion, avec le sourire, de remise sur quantité, si tu viens avec un groupe de 10 ! Je me répéte, tout est dans la nuance.
Qu'en est-il sur la place jemâa el fna? Lorsque tu dis "alimentaire", cela concerne-t-il aussi les marchands de la place? Les vendeurs d'oranges préssées pour l'exemple?
Et une question subsidiaire : Est-ce qu'on négocie en "vouvoyant", ou en "tutoyant"? Le tutoiement me semble le plus évident...
Les vendeurs d'oranges pressées "négocient" eux même en faisant la guerre des prix ou des quantités à la criée. Il ne me viendrait pas à l'idée de négocier plus bas.
Le tutoiement ou le vouvoiement : souvent, les gens qui parlent imparfaitement le français tutoient, parce que le "vous" en tant que terme de respect n'existe pas en arabe. En fonction de cela, certains mélangent allègrement parce qu'ils vouvoient, sauf certaines expressions standard où le vous n'existe pas. En revanche, ils savent aussi très bien que chez nous le vous est une forme de respect. Aussi je vouvoie au démarrage, et je tutoie seulement si mon interlocuteur me tutoie. Je ne me sens pas autorisée, dans ma langue, à utiliser d'emblée une formule familière. Et on négocie très bien avec le vous :)
Et une question subsidiaire : Est-ce qu'on négocie en "vouvoyant", ou en "tutoyant"? Le tutoiement me semble le plus évident...
Les vendeurs d'oranges pressées "négocient" eux même en faisant la guerre des prix ou des quantités à la criée. Il ne me viendrait pas à l'idée de négocier plus bas.
Le tutoiement ou le vouvoiement : souvent, les gens qui parlent imparfaitement le français tutoient, parce que le "vous" en tant que terme de respect n'existe pas en arabe. En fonction de cela, certains mélangent allègrement parce qu'ils vouvoient, sauf certaines expressions standard où le vous n'existe pas. En revanche, ils savent aussi très bien que chez nous le vous est une forme de respect. Aussi je vouvoie au démarrage, et je tutoie seulement si mon interlocuteur me tutoie. Je ne me sens pas autorisée, dans ma langue, à utiliser d'emblée une formule familière. Et on négocie très bien avec le vous :)
Des infos pour vivre et travailler au Maroc : http://o-maroc.com
bonjour,
au sujet du et , faites selon vos habitudes en france, soyez naturel.
ne faites comme un jeune d'une trentaine d'annees que j'ai croise pdt mon sejour au maroc, il vouvoyait les francais et des qu'il s'adressait a un marocain jeune, vieux...( commercant, serveur ect) passait systematiquement au tutoiement, c'etait pas vraiment le tutoiement qui me genait, mais la facon qu'il l'utilisait avec un ton et une attitude de superiorite. qt aux marocains, il y avait dans leurs regards une ptit lueur qui en disait long si on y prenait attention, surtt chez les serveurs.
personnellement, j'ai vouvoye tous les marocains que j'ai croise, comme je le fais avec toute personne que je ne connais pas, et je nai pas le souvenir d'avor ete tutoyee par les commercants j'ai tres tres bien marchande en vouvoyant, et j'ai aussi tres tres bien discute, surtout le vendredi qui est l'equivalent de notre dimanche .Le vendredi, la plupart des hommes sont a la priere, et pres de la moitie des boutiques sont fermees dans le souk...du coup, il y a moins monde a circuler, l'ambiance y est plus cool, et les commercants presents sont plus dispo. a la conversation... vous savez, les marocains sont des hommes comme vous et moi, pas du tout d'une autre epoque...et s'ils acceptent silencieusement certains comportements deplaces, voire outrancies des touristes ( notamment des anglais, ), c'est parce qu'ils ont besoin de gagner leur vie, comme tout a chacun.
j'ai decouvert au fil de mes balades, bien souvent au depart de la grande place, des petites epiceries ou s'approvisionnent la plupart des locaux...les prix etaient tellement bas, que je n'ai pas marchande. pareil, sur l'avenue MAH.V, un marchand de tissu, qui vendait de magnifiques colliers et babioles, pour 3 fois rien...pas besoin de marchander.
mais le marchandage est un petit jeu a essayer dans les souks rien que pour le plaisir, et aussi pour notre porte monnaie. Sans oublier les petits taxis pour les petites courses..entre 6 et 7dirh....peut-etre y a t'il moins cher??? en tout cas vous trouverez certainement plus cher..et la, ce n'est plus du tout pour le plaisir
personnellement, j'ai vouvoye tous les marocains que j'ai croise, comme je le fais avec toute personne que je ne connais pas, et je nai pas le souvenir d'avor ete tutoyee par les commercants j'ai tres tres bien marchande en vouvoyant, et j'ai aussi tres tres bien discute, surtout le vendredi qui est l'equivalent de notre dimanche .Le vendredi, la plupart des hommes sont a la priere, et pres de la moitie des boutiques sont fermees dans le souk...du coup, il y a moins monde a circuler, l'ambiance y est plus cool, et les commercants presents sont plus dispo. a la conversation... vous savez, les marocains sont des hommes comme vous et moi, pas du tout d'une autre epoque...et s'ils acceptent silencieusement certains comportements deplaces, voire outrancies des touristes ( notamment des anglais, ), c'est parce qu'ils ont besoin de gagner leur vie, comme tout a chacun.
j'ai decouvert au fil de mes balades, bien souvent au depart de la grande place, des petites epiceries ou s'approvisionnent la plupart des locaux...les prix etaient tellement bas, que je n'ai pas marchande. pareil, sur l'avenue MAH.V, un marchand de tissu, qui vendait de magnifiques colliers et babioles, pour 3 fois rien...pas besoin de marchander.
mais le marchandage est un petit jeu a essayer dans les souks rien que pour le plaisir, et aussi pour notre porte monnaie. Sans oublier les petits taxis pour les petites courses..entre 6 et 7dirh....peut-etre y a t'il moins cher??? en tout cas vous trouverez certainement plus cher..et la, ce n'est plus du tout pour le plaisir
esperanto
Bonjour,
C'est parce qu'il existe des "clichés" sur ces questions que je les pose. Au sujet du tutoiement, l'exemple de ce jeune de 30 ans est caractéristique.
Ce que je voulais, au fond, savoir, c'est si l'on pouvait établir facilement, lors d'une négociation, une relation "complice". C'est à dire, débuter par le vouvoiement, et passer rapidement au tutoiement. Plus clairement, est-ce qu'emboîter le pas du commercant, en le tutoyant, si celui-ci vient de vous tutoyez (même si c'est une "erreur"), sera favorable à la négociation?
A priori, oui,
parce que le "vous" en tant que terme de respect n'existe pas en arabe
Ceci dit, ce n'est que du détail.😉
parce que le "vous" en tant que terme de respect n'existe pas en arabe
Ceci dit, ce n'est que du détail.😉
bonjour,
tout est detail, et comme dit Brel < oui, mais il y a la maniere>
d'une facon generale, j'ai beaucoup de mal a tutoyer, a l'inverse d'une de mes soeurs qui tutoie tout le monde tres rapidement et facilement.
restez nature, c'est la chose la plus simple, entr'autre pour negocier.
bon voyage si vous partez
esperanto
😉 bonjour,
A partir du moment ou tu es dans un souk tout est négociable mais parfois il faut savoir etre généreux aussi, avec les taxi par exemple c'est pas cher mas tu peux laissé un petit bakchiche, mais savoir aussi etre vigilant avec les vrais arnaqueurs.
Il y a tellement de belles choses que de toute façon tu te fera forcément arnaquer mais c'est le jeu c'est pas bien grave.
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What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
A lot of people find it important to stick to their budget when traveling—not to skimp, but to visit as many places as possible since traveling is their hobby.
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
Hi everyone! 😊
We’re traveling as a family to Marrakech from April 19 to 24, and there’ll be 15 of us (all ages), staying in the Targa neighborhood (El Idrissi Street).
I’d love your advice on a few things! 🙏
🚗 Vehicle rental
We’re thinking of renting 3 cars. We’ve seen really low prices online, but often without insurance.
👉 Do you have any reliable contacts or personal experiences to share?
👉 Would you recommend getting specific “tourist” insurance?
🏛️ Visits – Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
We’d like to visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, but:
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
As-salamu alaykum!
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
Mid-May: arriving alone (so, a "petit taxi"?) at Marrakech airport around 4:30 PM,
is it advisable to take a taxi at the airport (cost?) or is it wiser to book one through the hotel before departure (which would cost me 20 €)?
I think I’ve seen lower fares elsewhere (12 €?).
Destination: Riad Sijane near Djemaa El Fna square. Thanks!
hi there
we’re heading to Hammamet in a few months
what would you recommend visiting for a week?
best regards
Hi there,
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to Morocco in September-October in our Fiat camper van, which isn’t a 4x4 but has already handled quite a bit of rough travel. While reading up on southern Morocco, we’ve been drawn to the Aguinane oasis but I’m having trouble locating it on the map. Is it possible to get there without a 4x4?
Thanks for your help
Hi,
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Hi there,
Can anyone tell me if it's possible to travel from the Dades Gorges (Msemrir) to the Todra Gorges (Tamtatouche) on a paved road? Thanks in advance for any answers.
Hello,
We’d like to hire a French-speaking guide (agency, professional, or volunteer) to show us around Cairo over three days.
Trip planned for November 22, 23, and 24, 2026—four veteran French travelers.
We’re open to any leads, contact info, or suggestions.
Best regards,
Jacques
Hi there,
I have a layover in Algeria.
I won’t be leaving the airport.
The two tickets aren’t with the same airline.
Do I need a transit visa?
Thanks for any details and your help!
Hi there,
I live in Casablanca and my parents, who are 80, will be joining me in Marrakech at the beginning of May for a few days.
We’ll be renting a car to get around.
Do you have any suggestions for things to see or visit within a 2-3 hour drive max from Marrakech that aren’t too touristy?
My parents can walk a bit, but at 80, no climbing Mount Toubkal!
Thanks so much in advance for your ideas!
Hi everyone, just back from the 8-day Marrakech-Merzouga loop by car, and I’d love to share my feedback in case it helps some of you. Big thanks to all the forum members who kindly answered my questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Hi there,
I’m traveling solo to Egypt. Could you give me a rough idea of the budget for:
meals
hotels
taxis including tips
visits...
Just an estimate, of course.
For 15 days, what would the price range be, considering there’s an overnight train and a Nile cruise?
I’d like to compare with a travel agency. Is it more worthwhile to go through an agency despite the downsides of group travel?
Otherwise, if a travel buddy is interested in this country, why not?
Thanks a lot!