Money in Morocco: Cash, Cards, ATMs and Tipping

The currency

Morocco uses the dirham (MAD). It is a restricted currency, which means you cannot normally buy it before you leave home and there are limits on taking it out of the country. Plan to withdraw or exchange on arrival, and spend or exchange back most of what is left before you fly out. Check the current rules on dirham exports before you travel, since they can change.

Where cards work

Cards are widely accepted at hotels, riads that take card payment, larger restaurants and bigger shops in cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca and Rabat. Souk stalls, small cafés, street food, taxis and many roadside stops are cash only. Expect a card to be refused more often outside the main cities, and tell your bank you are travelling so it does not block the first withdrawal.

ATMs and how much cash to carry

Cash machines are easy to find in cities and larger towns. They are scarce in small villages and in the desert, so withdraw before you set off for the south rather than counting on a machine in the Draa or Ziz valleys, and keep some small notes for tips and snacks along the way. Withdraw at machines inside bank branches where possible, and check the fee your own bank charges per withdrawal.

Tipping

Tipping is a normal part of daily life. In restaurants without a service charge, rounding up or leaving around 10 per cent is customary. Small tips are usual for porters, hotel and riad staff, and for anyone who carries your bags or shows you something helpful. For a guide and driver on a multi-day trip, tips are expected but there is no fixed rule, and amounts depend on the length of the trip and the group. Tips are not included in our tour prices, so it is worth having cash set aside for them.

Haggling and prices

In the souks, the first price is an opening offer and bargaining is expected. A fixed price on a tag is common in shops and for tours, and haggling there is usually unwelcome. If you are unsure what a fair price is, ask your guide before you start; our guide to how much a private Morocco tour costs explains how tour pricing works.

Questions about what is and is not included on a trip? Check the inclusions on any tour page or message us.