Tourisme équitable au Maroc
by Bourazzouq
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
bonjour
dejà je voulais dire que je suis heureux de voire que c'est derniere année le nombre de touriste est entrain d'accroitre au maroc ce qui rend ma joie immence
mais je voulais seulement passé un message a tout les touriste qui pense qu'en depEnsant de l'argent au maroc en va automatiquement participé au devellopement du pays
dejà je voulais dire que depenser de l'argent dans un pays sous devellopé comme le maroc ne va pas l'aidé a se devellopé par contre il va l'aidé a mieu vivre c'est vrai par ce que la plus part des pays devellopé sont des pays industruelle
vous devez savoir qu'au maroc il y a un grand ecart entre les classe sociale moyenne et les classe sociale pauvre ce qui rend l'ecart immence entrE un français de classe sociale moyenne et un marocain de classe sociale moyenne un petit exemple
dans un hotel 3 etoiles ou 4 etoiles par exemple les employé tout les employé gagnent au maximum 1800 dh et n'ont pas de securité sociale cependant le directeure peux gagné jusqu'ua 50 000 DH et le proprietaire meme 3 a 4 fois plus
ce qui veut dire que c'est un pays ou les rEssource sont tres mal partagé la preuve vous n'allez qu'ua comparer les depenses royale qui sont presque l'equivalant des depensEs de toute la ville de tanger bon ceci dit pour ne pas continue dans un discours politique je vais aller droit au but
je voudrai dire a tout les touriste que quand vous payé un hotel de luxe un resto de luxe au maroc vous ne participez qu'au remplissage des poche des riche vous ne faite que rendre les riche plus riche qu'avant c'est pourquoi moi je vous dit que la meilleurs des choses pour vraimment aider ce pays a mieu vivre c'est de faire du tourisme equitable de loger chez l'habittant de manger chez l'habittant d'acheté ce que vous voulez chez les petit commerçant pas dans les grand super marché en resumé d'essayer de cosnommer les bien et service dont en est sur que l'argent va aller dans la poche d'un petit pauvre marocain ou marocaine pas dans la poche d'un grand gerant d'hotel ou de super marché .......
bonne journée
et vous etes et vous resterez toujours les bienvenus au maroc
tout les employé gagnent au maximum 1800 dh et n'ont pas de securité sociale
La CNSS (sécurité sociale) est maintenant obligatoire pour tous les employés.
Même si sur le fond je suis en partie d'accord avec toi, le tourisme "de luxe" et les supermarchés donnent aussi du travail aux pauvres marocains, dans la construction comme dans le fonctionnement après.
Que les petits employés gagnent le smic et que les salaires des patrons soient largement supérieurs, c'est une chose qui est vraie partout. Mais les gens qui travaillent dans les hôtels sont bien contents d'y travailler et d'avoir un salaire...
Et en revanche, souvent, "chez l'habitant" là les gens n'ont pas de sécu, dans le secteur agricole la CNSS n'est pas obligatoire, beaucoup d'employées de maison sont au noir...
Ca n'empêche pas que je préfère, et de loin, voir un pays "chez l'habitant" que dans des grands hôtels de luxe. Mais si tu enlèves les hôtels de luxe, beaucoup de gens vont perdre leur emploi au Maroc :)
La CNSS (sécurité sociale) est maintenant obligatoire pour tous les employés.
Même si sur le fond je suis en partie d'accord avec toi, le tourisme "de luxe" et les supermarchés donnent aussi du travail aux pauvres marocains, dans la construction comme dans le fonctionnement après.
Que les petits employés gagnent le smic et que les salaires des patrons soient largement supérieurs, c'est une chose qui est vraie partout. Mais les gens qui travaillent dans les hôtels sont bien contents d'y travailler et d'avoir un salaire...
Et en revanche, souvent, "chez l'habitant" là les gens n'ont pas de sécu, dans le secteur agricole la CNSS n'est pas obligatoire, beaucoup d'employées de maison sont au noir...
Ca n'empêche pas que je préfère, et de loin, voir un pays "chez l'habitant" que dans des grands hôtels de luxe. Mais si tu enlèves les hôtels de luxe, beaucoup de gens vont perdre leur emploi au Maroc :)
Des infos pour vivre et travailler au Maroc : http://o-maroc.com
SALUT !!
Tout a fait de ton avis !! MAIS comment coucher chez l'habitant, quand on ne connait personne ?? il n'y a pas de paneaux, genre maison d'hôte ou chambre à louer chez l'habitant, voir à la station service du coin ou à l'épicerie ??????????? c'est ce genre de signalisation qui manque au voyageur, qui ne demande pas mieux que de vivre chez l'habitant quelque chose d'unique, plutot que toujours l'hôtel ou les auberges !!
Je fait toujours mon marché sur le bord des routes ou dans les souks quand c'est jour de marché, que ce soit pour la viande les légumes ou poissons !! (quoi que pour le poisson, je préfére l'acheter dirrectement au pêcheur qui rentre au port, ou a un pêcheur solitaire)
Par contre les grands supermarchés du genre Marjane !! reste le dernier recours pour les alcools !!
PAPY (voir mon bloog)
PAPY (voir mon bloog)
En Afrique tout est possible, mais rien n'est certain ....!!
http://papyetmamyenvoyage.kazeo.com/
Comme tu as raison! Il existe dans toutes les médinas des petits hôtels bon marché, très propres et largement suffisants pour bien dormir. Car voyager n'est pas passer son temps entre chambre, piscine et grands restaus! Que restera-t-il à celui qui ne rencontre pas les habitants, dans les souks, à la campagne? que restera-t-il à celui qui se cache derrière son appareil photo? Moi qui depuis 10 ans voyage tous les ans au Maroc, je m'enrichis à chaque fois au gré de mes rencontres, j'ai toujours en moi l'envie de connaître plus ce peuple accueillant et merveilleux, mais en 3 semaines par ans je n'ai plus le temps de voir tous mes amis!
merci à vous d'avoir osé écrire ces propos sur ce site . je pense comme vous, et pourtant je suis française, et je le crie autour de moi .
J'ai connu Marrakech il y a quelques années et ce qu'elle est devenue maintenant fait frémir . Il faut inciter à découvrir ce qu'il y a de véritable et montrer l'immense hospitalité des marocains, même les plus pauvres qui aurant toujours à coeur de vous offrir un bol de soupe ou un morceau de leur bon pain cuit au four du quartier.
Oui j'aime plus que tout ce pays mais celui qu'il faut savoir regarder et découvrir dans les moindre ruelles des médina
oui, je suis amoureuse de ce pays et j'admire la fierté de ses habitants
merci encore de vos propos et continuez de les écrire et de les dire autour de vous !
Marie
merci encore de vos propos et continuez de les écrire et de les dire autour de vous !
Marie
Il existe des associations qui organisent des voyages au Maroc de façon intelligente.
C'est le cas notamment de l'association la Route des Sens, qui organise des voyages équitables et solidaires au Maroc et qui essaye d'utiliser l'argent généré par ses voyages pour financer des projets de solidarité : aménagement d'infrastructures d'accueil, sensibilisation à l'hygiène et la santé, micro-crédit pour un élevage de brebis, équipement de garderies pour enfants, restauration des pistes et sentiers, rénovation de la Casbah traditionnelle d'un village, acquisition et aménagement d'un local de couture....
Si vous voulez plus d'infos, vous pouvez contacter les bénévoles de l'association : LA ROUTE DES SENS - Mairie - 34150 Puechabon - Tél/fax : 04 67 57 37 59.
C'est le cas notamment de l'association la Route des Sens, qui organise des voyages équitables et solidaires au Maroc et qui essaye d'utiliser l'argent généré par ses voyages pour financer des projets de solidarité : aménagement d'infrastructures d'accueil, sensibilisation à l'hygiène et la santé, micro-crédit pour un élevage de brebis, équipement de garderies pour enfants, restauration des pistes et sentiers, rénovation de la Casbah traditionnelle d'un village, acquisition et aménagement d'un local de couture....
Si vous voulez plus d'infos, vous pouvez contacter les bénévoles de l'association : LA ROUTE DES SENS - Mairie - 34150 Puechabon - Tél/fax : 04 67 57 37 59.
http://www.surlaroute.org
"On ne fait pas un voyage. Le voyage nous fait et nous défait, il nous invente."
Bonjour Raoulx,
15 % de frais de fonctionnement, ça ne me paraît pas excessif. Je pense qu'ils sont dans la moyenne des associations françaises, non ?
15 % de frais de fonctionnement, ça ne me paraît pas excessif. Je pense qu'ils sont dans la moyenne des associations françaises, non ?
http://www.surlaroute.org
"On ne fait pas un voyage. Le voyage nous fait et nous défait, il nous invente."
Tu as mis le doigt sur le problème des assocs francaises, souvent à coté de la plaque, et avec une gestion désastreuse!
Est il normal de payer 1000 euros pour un voyage soit disant "solidaire" (néologisme bobo qui ne veut pas dire grand chose ) et que 150 euros servent aux frais de gestion et seulement 50 euros pour un projet local !!!
moi je ne le trouve pas, et je n'ai pas besoin de me créer d'alibi "solidaire" auto certifié par un organisme de copains; Je dépense mon fric dans le pays, dans les auberges locales, les restaurants locaux, les épiceries de village, les transports du pays, et la, je suis sur que c'est directement injecté dans l'économie locale, et profite aux familles.
Est il normal de payer 1000 euros pour un voyage soit disant "solidaire" (néologisme bobo qui ne veut pas dire grand chose ) et que 150 euros servent aux frais de gestion et seulement 50 euros pour un projet local !!!
moi je ne le trouve pas, et je n'ai pas besoin de me créer d'alibi "solidaire" auto certifié par un organisme de copains; Je dépense mon fric dans le pays, dans les auberges locales, les restaurants locaux, les épiceries de village, les transports du pays, et la, je suis sur que c'est directement injecté dans l'économie locale, et profite aux familles.
Je comprends ce que tu veux dire. Et c'est vrai que quand tu voyages de manière autonome, tu distribues directement ton argent à l'économie locale.
Plus que dans un voyage organisé "classique" en tout cas.
Mais je connais un paquet de gens qui ne se sentent pas capable de partir en solo, et qui ont besoin des voyages organisés pour oser partir.
Alors dans ce cas là, est-ce qu'il vaut mieux partir avec un tour-operator, enfermé dans un hôtel en béton, sans rien voir du pays et de ses habitants ?
Ou vaut-il mieux partir avec une association de copains, comme tu dis, mais qui a au moins le souci de faire rencontrer les gens du pays, de faire dormir et manger les gens chez l'habitant, et accessoirement de monter un ou deux projets utiles ?
Mais je connais un paquet de gens qui ne se sentent pas capable de partir en solo, et qui ont besoin des voyages organisés pour oser partir.
Alors dans ce cas là, est-ce qu'il vaut mieux partir avec un tour-operator, enfermé dans un hôtel en béton, sans rien voir du pays et de ses habitants ?
Ou vaut-il mieux partir avec une association de copains, comme tu dis, mais qui a au moins le souci de faire rencontrer les gens du pays, de faire dormir et manger les gens chez l'habitant, et accessoirement de monter un ou deux projets utiles ?
http://www.surlaroute.org
"On ne fait pas un voyage. Le voyage nous fait et nous défait, il nous invente."
Bonsoir,
J'ai eu l'occasion d'aller une semaine à l'hôtel Kempinski mansour. Je reconnais qu'il y a du monde en tant qu'employé le cadre est magnifique la piscine extérieur chauffé 4 restaurants spa etc etc etc tout cela pour vous dire que cela crée des emplois mais pour notre cas c'est une expérience que nous ne renouvellerons plu c'est guindé, trop sophistiqué, il est impossible de connaître un pays de cette façon. Par contre maintenant nous partons plus de temps mais en faisant les petits hotels, petits restaus, epicerie, taxi collectif, bus, et nous évitons de manger la ou nous logeons. Nous avons l'impression que ce que nous payons va directement au commerçant. C'est vrai que c'est a petite échelle nous ne ferons jamais des commerçants millionnaire. L'avantage de voyager de cette façon c'est que l'on apprend un petit peu a connaître le Maroc avec ses bons et ses mauvais côtés
Cordialement
Jean-Marc Maryse
J'ai eu l'occasion d'aller une semaine à l'hôtel Kempinski mansour. Je reconnais qu'il y a du monde en tant qu'employé le cadre est magnifique la piscine extérieur chauffé 4 restaurants spa etc etc etc tout cela pour vous dire que cela crée des emplois mais pour notre cas c'est une expérience que nous ne renouvellerons plu c'est guindé, trop sophistiqué, il est impossible de connaître un pays de cette façon. Par contre maintenant nous partons plus de temps mais en faisant les petits hotels, petits restaus, epicerie, taxi collectif, bus, et nous évitons de manger la ou nous logeons. Nous avons l'impression que ce que nous payons va directement au commerçant. C'est vrai que c'est a petite échelle nous ne ferons jamais des commerçants millionnaire. L'avantage de voyager de cette façon c'est que l'on apprend un petit peu a connaître le Maroc avec ses bons et ses mauvais côtés
Cordialement
Jean-Marc Maryse
Jean-Marc & Maryse
Qui plante un arbre, plante le bonheur (proverbe chinois)
Qui plante un arbre, plante le bonheur (proverbe chinois)
ah ben oui alors !!! 😎
c'est vrai que c'est difficile de faire la part entre "bien faire" et "faire bien" ...
comme tu l'as dis, malheureusement, il y a un tas d'associations en France qui sont à coté de la plaque ... (remarque, je leurs jettes pas la pierre, mais souvent l'arbre a tendance à cacher la foret !!!)
après avoir bosser en Afrique sub-saharienne ( bosser = rester VRAIMENT avec les gens assez longtemps avec les gens pour comprendre leurs problèmes ) j'appelle ce genre de trucs "assoc. Station-Wagon" (du nom du 4X4 ) pour le simple fait que j'en ai vu certaines qui débarquent au fond fin de nul part, en superbe 4X4, le matin de bonne-heure, font un "cinéma sans nom" et le soir venu, hop retour à l'hôtel (dormir sur une natte ? ca va, ouais, !! 😠 ) et plus jamais de suivi ...
je te dis pas après, expliquer aux locaux que vivre simplement la-bas vaudra TOUJOURS mieux que vider les poubelles à Paris, c'est coton ....!!🤪
bon ... bonne continuation !!!
c'est vrai que c'est difficile de faire la part entre "bien faire" et "faire bien" ...
comme tu l'as dis, malheureusement, il y a un tas d'associations en France qui sont à coté de la plaque ... (remarque, je leurs jettes pas la pierre, mais souvent l'arbre a tendance à cacher la foret !!!)
après avoir bosser en Afrique sub-saharienne ( bosser = rester VRAIMENT avec les gens assez longtemps avec les gens pour comprendre leurs problèmes ) j'appelle ce genre de trucs "assoc. Station-Wagon" (du nom du 4X4 ) pour le simple fait que j'en ai vu certaines qui débarquent au fond fin de nul part, en superbe 4X4, le matin de bonne-heure, font un "cinéma sans nom" et le soir venu, hop retour à l'hôtel (dormir sur une natte ? ca va, ouais, !! 😠 ) et plus jamais de suivi ...
je te dis pas après, expliquer aux locaux que vivre simplement la-bas vaudra TOUJOURS mieux que vider les poubelles à Paris, c'est coton ....!!🤪
bon ... bonne continuation !!!
oui, tu as raison ...
si on a envie de connaitre les gens, il vaut mieux partir avec une assoc. que pas partir du tout ...!!
mais d'un autre coté, il vaut mieux regarder où on mets les pieds ...
même si la première fois, c'est quasi impossible à savoir, il faut pas se priver d'utiliser sa tête et demander des "tonnes" de questions ...
éviter comme la peste les "magouilleurs" (je viens de recevoir un proposition d'une assoc. solidaire où apparemment ils ont aucun complexe, ils expliquent qu'ils donnent 10% pour le solidaire, le reste étant des frais de gestion ....🏴☠️ )
éviter aussi les trucs "prout, ma chére !", ça doit venir du cœur, pas être un sujet de discussion pour le salon-de-thé une fois rentré ...
après plusieurs tours du monde, la seule chose qui vaut le coup (pour moi, je veux pas être un exemple) c'est les gens ... un arbre ici ou un arbre la-bas .... ça reste un arbre ...!
mais comme presque tout ça s'apprend, faut juste être assez taré ( dans le bon sens ) pour faire le premier pas ...
si on a envie de connaitre les gens, il vaut mieux partir avec une assoc. que pas partir du tout ...!!
mais d'un autre coté, il vaut mieux regarder où on mets les pieds ...
même si la première fois, c'est quasi impossible à savoir, il faut pas se priver d'utiliser sa tête et demander des "tonnes" de questions ...
éviter comme la peste les "magouilleurs" (je viens de recevoir un proposition d'une assoc. solidaire où apparemment ils ont aucun complexe, ils expliquent qu'ils donnent 10% pour le solidaire, le reste étant des frais de gestion ....🏴☠️ )
éviter aussi les trucs "prout, ma chére !", ça doit venir du cœur, pas être un sujet de discussion pour le salon-de-thé une fois rentré ...
après plusieurs tours du monde, la seule chose qui vaut le coup (pour moi, je veux pas être un exemple) c'est les gens ... un arbre ici ou un arbre la-bas .... ça reste un arbre ...!
mais comme presque tout ça s'apprend, faut juste être assez taré ( dans le bon sens ) pour faire le premier pas ...
bravo cher concitoyen, rien à ajouter, sauf que la différence va dans tous les sens et sur tous les axes au Maroc, si la région de Marrakech Agadir profitent de la médiatisation de ses produits touristiques, une région comme l'oriental reste toujours un coin obscur pour la plupart des touristes, moi j'habite à au sud-est à la région de Figuig/Ich, et lorsque on voit passer notre région sur la télé c'est un jour historique, par contre je suis mainte fois allé sur les chaines de nos voisins et il y a beaucoup de chances de trouver une emission qui parle de la région de Ain sefra ou Béchar qui se trouvent de l'autre côté de la frontière. 🙁
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More discussions
Hi there,
Here’s a first draft for a 14-night itinerary during the Christmas break with two teens. We’re especially fond of hiking (nothing too extreme, though), which is why we’re drawn to the south.
- Marrakech (2 nights) - Aït Ben Haddou (1 night) - Dadès (3 nights, though we’re thinking of doing a day trip to the Todra Gorge on one of those days) - M'hamid (1 night) - Erg Chigaga (1 night) - 4 nights to slot in - Marrakech (2 nights)
Okay, I realize this involves a lot of driving, and we’re still debating the return route since we’d like to avoid the Tichka Pass in January, but going through Taroudant seems like it would add *a lot* of time. 😕
If you’ve got other suggestions for an itinerary with great hikes, I’m all ears!
Also, the 4 nights total in MRK isn’t really our preference, but since we’re arriving/departing super early from overseas, we’d like to be a bit rested before the long flight.
Another question: For hikes (aside from the desert one), is it better to have a guide with us, or are the trails well-marked?
Thanks for your help!
Here’s a first draft for a 14-night itinerary during the Christmas break with two teens. We’re especially fond of hiking (nothing too extreme, though), which is why we’re drawn to the south.
- Marrakech (2 nights) - Aït Ben Haddou (1 night) - Dadès (3 nights, though we’re thinking of doing a day trip to the Todra Gorge on one of those days) - M'hamid (1 night) - Erg Chigaga (1 night) - 4 nights to slot in - Marrakech (2 nights)
Okay, I realize this involves a lot of driving, and we’re still debating the return route since we’d like to avoid the Tichka Pass in January, but going through Taroudant seems like it would add *a lot* of time. 😕
If you’ve got other suggestions for an itinerary with great hikes, I’m all ears!
Also, the 4 nights total in MRK isn’t really our preference, but since we’re arriving/departing super early from overseas, we’d like to be a bit rested before the long flight.
Another question: For hikes (aside from the desert one), is it better to have a guide with us, or are the trails well-marked?
Thanks for your help!
Hi everyone,
Our trip to Morocco will be from November 3 to 17, in the High Atlas.
Basically, our route would be:
Marrakech - Aït Benhaddou
Skoura - Tinghir - Merzouga
Merzouga via the N12 to Zagora
Zagora - Draa Valley - Marrakech
It seems to be the low season, so I’d love to travel without having to book accommodations in advance. In other countries, pre-booking has restricted us and kept us from visiting unplanned sites. Freedom is important to us, but I’d also like to avoid arriving somewhere and finding nothing available. What do you recommend? Book ahead or not? Your advice is always helpful, and thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me. Roberto
It seems to be the low season, so I’d love to travel without having to book accommodations in advance. In other countries, pre-booking has restricted us and kept us from visiting unplanned sites. Freedom is important to us, but I’d also like to avoid arriving somewhere and finding nothing available. What do you recommend? Book ahead or not? Your advice is always helpful, and thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me. Roberto
Hello to all Morocco lovers,
First of all: a big thank you to everyone whose insightful, funny, lively, and exotic posts we’ve enjoyed. It’s a joy to find such lovely writers on this forum, who’ve given me tons of ideas and addresses to prepare our trip.
Our plan: to explore Morocco from November 2nd to December 4th. We’ll have our own vehicle (a 2011 Renault Grand Scenic, in great condition), shipped with us from Sète to Tanger Med. Returning from Nador.
Our profile: 75 and 62 years young, so old but happy to be, in very good health. Seasoned travelers—it’s practically our whole life. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, fine craftsmanship, and road trips. This will be my 3rd trip to Morocco, but the first two were 20 and 17 years ago. I’ve never been north of the Essaouira-Marrakech line (though I’ve gone further south). As for my husband, a lifelong expat including in Muslim countries, it’s his first time in Morocco.
He’s the one driving. He’s very experienced, cautious, not necessarily fast, but used to driving in all conditions (and countries, including the most creative on the road). But I don’t want to tire him out, and he no longer drives at night (and we’ll be there in November).
I’ve decided to show him a bit of everything by taking a road trip along beautiful backroads, with daily distances averaging 180-200 km (except on highways, which will be rare), regularly broken up by rest days. I’m counting on a speed of 40-50 km/h, plus stops/visits along the way.
Since I’ve read so many posts, I’ve narrowed it down to some very specific questions.
1) Coming directly from Rabat via the highway, we’d prefer to skip Marrakech*. Still, we’ll need to sleep somewhere nearby. We’ll head toward Skoura the next day. Does anyone have a well-located address for this route, possibly east of Marrakech? Ideally, we’re looking for a small town, easy parking, clean accommodation (minimum) with average comfort (or better if available), a bit heated, and if possible, pretty and/or nice—but above all, a place to sleep well, wash with lukewarm (ideally hot) water, and have a decent dinner.
(*Explanation for the "no-go" in Marrakech: it’s a shame, because there are truly beautiful things in this city, but I think the vibe won’t suit us—it’s an understatement for "it’ll put us off" / "make us flee" / "traumatize us." Not because it’s too crowded and we want to stand out from tourists (we’re part of them), but because of forced henna on your hand, or spending 10 minutes every quarter-hour saying "no thank you" to a "guide" who’s as much a guide as I am a trapeze artist. Knowing us, it’ll wear us down. The country is vast and beautiful, and our time too short to waste our memories just days after arriving. And I don’t want to ruin things for my peaceful husband, or he’ll demand we turn back—and Sète in November isn’t exactly thrilling either.)
2) Which route to Skoura (in 2 days)? I see two options: either via the Tichka Pass, with a night in Telouet before reaching Skoura, or via the R307/N23 from Demnate, with a night near Megdaz before descending to Skoura. So: Tichka Pass or R307/N23? I have a slight (big) preference for the second option, even though I know the other route is very beautiful too. Of course, before deciding, we’ll check the weather and the current state of the R307/N23—does anyone know where to get info on the road conditions? But even assuming the road is "passable," is it a bit too tough in itself? In short, is it reasonable? If a kind soul could share their experience, a thousand thanks in advance.
That’s all I’ve written for now. I’ll save the other questions for later posts. Thanks again to those who had the patience to read this and to those who can respond. Happy Sunday to all!
Fran
First of all: a big thank you to everyone whose insightful, funny, lively, and exotic posts we’ve enjoyed. It’s a joy to find such lovely writers on this forum, who’ve given me tons of ideas and addresses to prepare our trip.
Our plan: to explore Morocco from November 2nd to December 4th. We’ll have our own vehicle (a 2011 Renault Grand Scenic, in great condition), shipped with us from Sète to Tanger Med. Returning from Nador.
Our profile: 75 and 62 years young, so old but happy to be, in very good health. Seasoned travelers—it’s practically our whole life. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, fine craftsmanship, and road trips. This will be my 3rd trip to Morocco, but the first two were 20 and 17 years ago. I’ve never been north of the Essaouira-Marrakech line (though I’ve gone further south). As for my husband, a lifelong expat including in Muslim countries, it’s his first time in Morocco.
He’s the one driving. He’s very experienced, cautious, not necessarily fast, but used to driving in all conditions (and countries, including the most creative on the road). But I don’t want to tire him out, and he no longer drives at night (and we’ll be there in November).
I’ve decided to show him a bit of everything by taking a road trip along beautiful backroads, with daily distances averaging 180-200 km (except on highways, which will be rare), regularly broken up by rest days. I’m counting on a speed of 40-50 km/h, plus stops/visits along the way.
Since I’ve read so many posts, I’ve narrowed it down to some very specific questions.
1) Coming directly from Rabat via the highway, we’d prefer to skip Marrakech*. Still, we’ll need to sleep somewhere nearby. We’ll head toward Skoura the next day. Does anyone have a well-located address for this route, possibly east of Marrakech? Ideally, we’re looking for a small town, easy parking, clean accommodation (minimum) with average comfort (or better if available), a bit heated, and if possible, pretty and/or nice—but above all, a place to sleep well, wash with lukewarm (ideally hot) water, and have a decent dinner.
(*Explanation for the "no-go" in Marrakech: it’s a shame, because there are truly beautiful things in this city, but I think the vibe won’t suit us—it’s an understatement for "it’ll put us off" / "make us flee" / "traumatize us." Not because it’s too crowded and we want to stand out from tourists (we’re part of them), but because of forced henna on your hand, or spending 10 minutes every quarter-hour saying "no thank you" to a "guide" who’s as much a guide as I am a trapeze artist. Knowing us, it’ll wear us down. The country is vast and beautiful, and our time too short to waste our memories just days after arriving. And I don’t want to ruin things for my peaceful husband, or he’ll demand we turn back—and Sète in November isn’t exactly thrilling either.)
2) Which route to Skoura (in 2 days)? I see two options: either via the Tichka Pass, with a night in Telouet before reaching Skoura, or via the R307/N23 from Demnate, with a night near Megdaz before descending to Skoura. So: Tichka Pass or R307/N23? I have a slight (big) preference for the second option, even though I know the other route is very beautiful too. Of course, before deciding, we’ll check the weather and the current state of the R307/N23—does anyone know where to get info on the road conditions? But even assuming the road is "passable," is it a bit too tough in itself? In short, is it reasonable? If a kind soul could share their experience, a thousand thanks in advance.
That’s all I’ve written for now. I’ll save the other questions for later posts. Thanks again to those who had the patience to read this and to those who can respond. Happy Sunday to all!
Fran
hi there,
I’m just a few days away from my trip to Marrakech—I’m leaving from November 13th to 20th and bringing my parents along! I’d love to plan my stay as best as I can, and I’m sure the forum crew can help. So, here are my questions:
- Where’s the best place to exchange money without getting ripped off? The owner of the riad where we’re staying told us to avoid doing it at the airport because it’s really expensive and to do it in the medina instead, near Jemaa el-Fna square.
- Which traditional hammams do you recommend that are reasonably priced? How much should we budget for one? That’ll help me plan my expenses.
- What are some nice restaurants in the medina?
- I’d also like to know roughly how much to expect for a tea, a meal, a taxi, a djellaba, and babouches. I don’t want to get overcharged and would like to know what to expect.
- What are the must-do activities and places to visit?
Thanks in advance for your help....
I’m just a few days away from my trip to Marrakech—I’m leaving from November 13th to 20th and bringing my parents along! I’d love to plan my stay as best as I can, and I’m sure the forum crew can help. So, here are my questions:
- Where’s the best place to exchange money without getting ripped off? The owner of the riad where we’re staying told us to avoid doing it at the airport because it’s really expensive and to do it in the medina instead, near Jemaa el-Fna square.
- Which traditional hammams do you recommend that are reasonably priced? How much should we budget for one? That’ll help me plan my expenses.
- What are some nice restaurants in the medina?
- I’d also like to know roughly how much to expect for a tea, a meal, a taxi, a djellaba, and babouches. I don’t want to get overcharged and would like to know what to expect.
- What are the must-do activities and places to visit?
Thanks in advance for your help....
Hi
I’d like to know if the road between Msemrir and Tamttatouchte is doable with a standard car (Dacia Logan).
Thanks a lot
hi,
I’m looking for a country to visit for 10 days in February.
What do you recommend for a trip with some sunshine, hiking, and sightseeing?
Thanks for your help
Thanks for your help
Hi, I’d like to head to Morocco next week with my car. I’ve looked online at all the different info about the ferry crossing to Tangier, but I’m finding it really expensive. Is there a way to buy tickets in Spain? Or another way to get the Algeciras–Tangier crossing cheaper? Thanks for any tips or info!
Hi there,
We found a guide who offers the trip from M'hamid to a camp (departure at 3 PM, tea, meal, camel ride, overnight stay, breakfast, and return to M'Hamid by 11 AM the next day via the sacred oasis). He quoted us a price of 380 € for April. What do you think of this rate? This might sound like a silly question, but is it common to negotiate the price for this kind of thing (we're booking from France)? It’s still a big part of our travel budget.
Thanks
We found a guide who offers the trip from M'hamid to a camp (departure at 3 PM, tea, meal, camel ride, overnight stay, breakfast, and return to M'Hamid by 11 AM the next day via the sacred oasis). He quoted us a price of 380 € for April. What do you think of this rate? This might sound like a silly question, but is it common to negotiate the price for this kind of thing (we're booking from France)? It’s still a big part of our travel budget.
Thanks
Hi there,
We're planning to visit Egypt between January 25 and February 15, 2027. I looked up the Ramadan dates and found some sites saying it starts on February 8, while others say February 18... Where's the mistake?
Thanks,
Christian
Hi there,
We’re a family of 4 with two boys aged 12 and 10 traveling to Egypt in February.
We’re spending 3 days in Cairo to take our time exploring the city and the sites before heading south.
-Is it necessary to have a guide to visit the GEM? Are audio guides available? -Do you have any contacts for drivers to organize a few transfers (Giza, Saqqara, Airport)? -Do you know a French-speaking guide who’s friendly, family-friendly, and good at making things exciting, with reasonable prices?
Marie
-Is it necessary to have a guide to visit the GEM? Are audio guides available? -Do you have any contacts for drivers to organize a few transfers (Giza, Saqqara, Airport)? -Do you know a French-speaking guide who’s friendly, family-friendly, and good at making things exciting, with reasonable prices?
Marie
Hi there!
With our two teens, we’re heading to Morocco for two weeks at the end of December and beginning of January. It’ll be our first trip that’s more "off the beaten path," even though we’ve visited several countries before. Given the overwhelming amount of info, I’m feeling a bit swamped with the prep this trip requires, and I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to figuring out what’s realistic to visit in two weeks 😕 So, all your tips, personal experiences, and suggestions are more than welcome!
- Which places should we prioritize during this time of year? (I’ve read that some spots are less accessible in winter?) - What’s the best way to get around? (rental car, train, private transport, buses, etc.? — just a heads-up, we’ll have a few suitcases!) - In terms of "safety," are there any areas to avoid? - Any recommendations for reliable local tour companies (beyond the big names like "Get Your Guide") that offer excursions or private transport to help us explore the country? - A doable 2-week itinerary that lets us enjoy the country’s diversity without having to change accommodations every two days?
Thanks so much for your advice!
With our two teens, we’re heading to Morocco for two weeks at the end of December and beginning of January. It’ll be our first trip that’s more "off the beaten path," even though we’ve visited several countries before. Given the overwhelming amount of info, I’m feeling a bit swamped with the prep this trip requires, and I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to figuring out what’s realistic to visit in two weeks 😕 So, all your tips, personal experiences, and suggestions are more than welcome!
- Which places should we prioritize during this time of year? (I’ve read that some spots are less accessible in winter?) - What’s the best way to get around? (rental car, train, private transport, buses, etc.? — just a heads-up, we’ll have a few suitcases!) - In terms of "safety," are there any areas to avoid? - Any recommendations for reliable local tour companies (beyond the big names like "Get Your Guide") that offer excursions or private transport to help us explore the country? - A doable 2-week itinerary that lets us enjoy the country’s diversity without having to change accommodations every two days?
Thanks so much for your advice!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip to the High Atlas in Morocco and have a few questions for you: - Why do so many people recommend avoiding international agencies for car rentals? Can anyone explain why? - Is Booking.com reliable, and has anyone rented a vehicle through their service? There’s a pretty big price difference compared to local Moroccan agencies. - Is there a detailed road map included in the rental car? - Is Google Maps enough to get around the High Atlas? This will be my first trip there.
Thanks so much to anyone who can help with this destination I’ve been dreaming about for years. Have a great evening, Roberto
I’m planning a trip to the High Atlas in Morocco and have a few questions for you: - Why do so many people recommend avoiding international agencies for car rentals? Can anyone explain why? - Is Booking.com reliable, and has anyone rented a vehicle through their service? There’s a pretty big price difference compared to local Moroccan agencies. - Is there a detailed road map included in the rental car? - Is Google Maps enough to get around the High Atlas? This will be my first trip there.
Thanks so much to anyone who can help with this destination I’ve been dreaming about for years. Have a great evening, Roberto
hi, I just wanted to know the exchange rate for euros in Tunisia, thanks
hi there, I’m heading to Tunisia 🙂 from April 27 to May 8 with my family. I’ve read through the various discussions about the country, but I’m still a bit unsure🤪: for currency exchange, I saw on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website that withdrawing currency with a bank card from ATMs is limited to 200 TND per week. There are four of us traveling by car, so that might be a bit tight! And it’s a hassle to carry a lot of cash, even if I’m not being paranoid! What do you all recommend?
Cheers,
Laurent.
Hi there,
I was wondering if it’s possible to join a group as a solo traveler with local agencies in Djanet for circuits like Tadrart, Essendilene, Sefar, or Tassili? If you have any agencies to recommend, I’d love to hear about them. I didn’t find any info on the forum. Best,
Fouzi
I was wondering if it’s possible to join a group as a solo traveler with local agencies in Djanet for circuits like Tadrart, Essendilene, Sefar, or Tassili? If you have any agencies to recommend, I’d love to hear about them. I didn’t find any info on the forum. Best,
Fouzi
We're planning a 2-week trip in late February/early March for a road trip in the High Atlas with a rental car, and we'd love to avoid booking our accommodations in advance. Is that doable, easily manageable, or risky (are accommodations available, expensive, or not great)? Thanks for your tips!
Annie
Hi,
This autumn, we’re planning to explore the Oriental region and we’re wondering where the best place to land would be. We’ll have three weeks ahead of us and we’ll be renting a car.
Any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Is there an official website or list of certified Egyptologist guides in Egypt? And most importantly, what are the normal prices for a full day or half day? There’s so much scamming and crazy pricing—depending on who you contact, it can range from simple to quadruple!!!!
Thanks
Hello,
In September, my wife and I, along with another couple, will be traveling to Tunisia and staying at the Sheherasade Hotel near Sousse.
We’d love to hear your recommendations or tips on places to visit, as well as advice on taxis or other transportation options.
Thanks in advance!
Hi there, 🙂
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
Based on your experiences, do you have a professional to recommend?
Hello,
I’m looking for testimonials from Pieds-Noirs who have recently returned to Algeria.
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
Hello,
I’m traveling to Algeria from October 27 to November 16, 2026.
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been through the process about the accommodation attestation required for the visa application:
- Does it need to cover the entire duration of the trip?
- Is this document mandatory for a hotel to rent a room?
- Is it checked during inspections?
- Is a hotel booking (e.g., via Booking.com) sufficient for the visa?
- If so, does it need to be paid in advance?
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
Hi there,
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
Hi, I'm looking for a taxi from Dakhla airport to downtown Dakhla.
If you know a contact ?????
Hi there,
I’m looking for info about driving a vehicle in Tunisia.
Is it complicated?
Do I need an international driver’s permit?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
It's all in the title.
Thanks in advance
Hi everyone,
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
I know there are experts on this forum.
Thanks in advance
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
I know there are experts on this forum.
Thanks in advance
Hi there,
I’m looking for some friendly recommendations for places to stay in Marrakech for 3 nights in June 2026.
In the meantime, have a great day, everyone! Thanks so much in advance.