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FAQS / MOROCCO & EGYPT

Morocco & Egypt Travel FAQs

Visas, dress, and the practical questions before your North Africa trip.

Planning your trip to Morocco and Egypt

Two very different countries that raise a similar set of first-time questions, largely around dress, visas, and timing. Here’s what we hear most.

Visas & Practical Details

5 QUESTIONS

Do US citizens need a visa for Morocco?

No. US citizens can enter Morocco visa-free for stays of up to 90 days, provided your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

Do US citizens need a visa for Egypt?

Yes, but it’s straightforward. Most US travelers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply in advance for an e-visa, and we’ll walk you through whichever route suits your itinerary.

What currency should we bring?

Morocco uses the dirham, which can’t be obtained outside the country, so you’ll exchange or withdraw cash after arrival. Egypt’s currency is the pound, and cards are widely accepted in hotels and on Nile cruises, with cash useful for markets and tipping.

Is tipping expected in both countries?

Yes, in both. It’s a standard part of daily life, drivers, guides, and hotel staff all expect a small tip, and we’ll give you a clear guide once your itinerary is confirmed.

Are recommended vaccinations needed for either country?

Your doctor may recommend hepatitis A and typhoid for either destination depending on your specific itinerary. Neither requires proof of vaccination for US travelers under standard circumstances.

Dress Code & Etiquette

4 QUESTIONS

What should we wear in Morocco?

Comfortable, reasonably modest clothing works well almost everywhere, and Morocco is generally tolerant of Western dress. We’ll flag anywhere more conservative clothing is appropriate, such as certain religious sites.

What should we wear in Egypt, especially at temples and on a Nile cruise?

Modest clothing is recommended for sightseeing, especially in Upper Egypt and at religious sites, while cruise ships are more relaxed by day and slightly dressier at dinner. Swimwear is for the pool deck only.

Is haggling expected in Moroccan markets?

Yes, it’s part of the experience in the souks. Vendors typically expect some negotiation, and we’re happy to brief you on the etiquette before you go.

Are there behaviors to avoid in either country?

Public displays of affection are best kept minimal in both countries, and photographing government buildings, military personnel, or police should always be avoided.

Best Time to Visit

3 QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit Morocco?

Spring (April and May) and fall (September through November) bring the most comfortable temperatures nationwide, but winter is also a nice time for sightseeing as weather is mild.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

October through April offers the best balance of comfortable sightseeing weather and full days outdoors. May through September brings much hotter temperatures, especially in Luxor and Aswan, though prices drop accordingly.

Can Morocco and Egypt be combined into one trip?

They’re geographically distant enough that we usually recommend treating them as two separate journeys rather than one trip, though we’re happy to discuss a combined itinerary if the timing works for you.

Nile Cruises & Getting Around

3 QUESTIONS

Is a Nile cruise worth including in an Egypt itinerary?

For most first-time visitors, yes. A few nights aboard between Luxor and Aswan is the most comfortable way to see the temples along the river without repeated hotel changes.

How do we get between Marrakech and the Moroccan desert?

Private driver is the most comfortable option for the multi-day route through the Atlas Mountains, and it’s how we arrange this leg for nearly every Morocco itinerary.

Do we need a private guide, or can we explore independently?

We strongly recommend a private guide in both countries, for context at historic sites, ease of navigation in markets and temples, and simply a smoother day overall.