FAQ

What is Morocco’s COVID-19 policy?

With a successful vaccination campaign, Morocco’s travel and entry requirements make travel as normal as possible.

We created a specific page for COVID-19 FAQs, see HERE.

What's included?

Our retreats include:

• Accommodations at luxury traditional hotels and luxury desert camps
• Transfer from and to Marrakech Airport
• Three daily meals (unless stated otherwise)
• Daily yoga practice
• Yoga workshops
• Yoga mats and props
• Guided cultural and historical tours
• Group transportation for all planned activities

Each retreat has a tailored itinerary that includes some, all or more of the following:

• Hammam & Spa treatments
• Moroccan cooking class
• Shopping tour of the Souks
• Historical city tour
• Jamaa El Fna Square Tour
• Majorelle Gardens tour
• YSL Museum
• Discovering the science and magic of spices with a traditional herbalist
• Agafay desert sunset camel ride and dinner
• Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
• Surfing lessons
• Olive grove tour and tasting 
• Beach hike 
• Beach barbecue 
• Horse riding 
• Pottery workshop
• Bread making class
• Argan Oil Farm Visit 
• Cactus Thiemann
• Sidecar tour
• ATV
• Horse riding 
• Mountain biking 
• Hot air balloon ride 

The final itinerary is sent to all participants four weeks before the first day of the retreat.

What’s not included?

Our retreats do not include:

• Airfare to and from Morocco
• Mandatory private travel insurance 
• Passport and/or visa fees
• Discretionary tips
• Beverages other than bottled water
• Optional meals and activities not listed in the final itinerary

How do I book my spot?

Participants can pay in full at the time of booking or enroll in one of our payment plans

• Coming by yourself and want to share a room? Select a "Shared Triple" or “Shared Twin” room option and we will match you with a roommate
• Sharing a Double, Twin or Triple room with other participants? Shoot us an email with your names so we can make you roommates
• If you would like to make a direct booking with us, email us at salam@qarryaretreats.com

How does Partial.ly payment plan work?

Partial.ly is a flexible payment plan that makes it possible for you to book your retreat today and pay for it, selecting your own payment terms to better fit your finances:

• Select your room type and the number of participants
• Pay the US$500 down payment
• You choose the frequency of your payments and the amount of each payment changes accordingly
• Depending on the retreat, your final payment will occur 4 to 16 weeks before the retreat start date

Partial.ly is a secure external payment plan provider. Partial.ly is not a free payment plan. An additional 5% fee is calculated at checkout. 

Can I cancel my booking?

• The first US$500 of any payment is the participant's deposit and is not refundable
• Refunds are available until 28 days before the first day of the retreat (See Terms & Conditions HERE)

Should I be an advanced practitioner to take part to the retreat?

Absolutely not. Everyone is welcome to be part of this journey. The small group dynamic will help tailor each practice to each student individually.

I have injuries, can I still participate to the retreat?

Of course, provided your injury is minor and you can safely physically move. Our bodies change daily and so does our practice. All we ask is that you inform us in advance of any specific injuries, needs or limitations so we can honor them. 

When should I arrive?

The retreat will begin at 5pm on the first day. If you decide to arrive to Morocco earlier, we will be happy to help you with the planning.

What if I arrive later?

We would appreciate if all participants share their energy together from start to finish, but we know life can be unpredictable and last-minute changes happen. We accept late arrivals up to 48 hours after the beginning of the retreat. The price will remain the same and an additional fee will be paid to arrange a private transfer from the airport if needed.

Can I make changes to the room arrangement?

Of course! A friend or a spouse decided to join you on the retreat? You decided on a private room rather than a shared room? Just let us know at least four weeks in advance and we will rearrange the rooms accordingly.

Can I bring a plus one who will not be participating to the retreat?

Yes you can! Depending on the size of the group and availability. Get in touch, we’d be happy to help!

When should I leave?

The retreat will end at noon on the last day. If you decide to extend your stay, we will be happy to help you with the planning.

What if I need to leave earlier?

We would love to have you with us for the whole duration of the retreat, but we completely understand if you can’t. You can leave before the end of the retreat; however, the price will remain the same and an additional fee will be paid to arrange a private transfer to the airport if needed.

How big will the group be?

We limit our groups to a maximum of 20 people.

Are partners and kids welcome?

What can be a yoga retreat for you can also be a holiday for your family! The hotels are kid friendly, so children are welcome, and baby-sitters are available upon request, at an additional cost. Please email us if you would like to bring your family so we can send you a separate quote.

What if I have a dietary restriction?

Our hotels' restaurants serve a mix of International and Moroccan cuisine. Moroccan cuisine is a delicious combination of mouthwatering flavors that make it unique. Traditional dishes usually include meat, excluding pork. If you have any food allergies or are vegetarian, please let us know and we will create a vegetarian or vegan menu for you.

Do you offer private retreats?

Yes, we do! Email us at salam@qarryaretreats.com and we’ll provide you with our rates for custom experiences.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes! Each participant is required to have their own individual travel insurance covering the whole duration of the retreat. This provides peace of mind and will cover any unforeseen incidents during your trip. At a minimum your policy should cover incidentals such as flight delays and cancellations, loss of baggage, medical expenses, repatriation, and emergency evacuation.

How do I get to Morocco?

If you are flying from the US, there is a direct flight operated by Royal Air Maroc and American Airlines from New York City (JFK), Washington DC (IAD), and Miami (MIA) to Casablanca’s Airport (CMN). Additionally, United Airlines now operates a direct flight from Newark (EWR) to Marrakech (RAK) three times a week.

You can choose to fly to Marrakech with Royal Air Maroc, with a stopover in Casablanca (CMN). Alternatively, several airlines fly from major US cities to both Casablanca (CMN) and Marrakech (RAK) with a short stopover at their European hubs (Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, etc.).

For travelers from other countries, several North American, European, Middle Eastern, and African airlines also operate daily flights to Casablanca and Marrakech.

If you need help finding the best flight option, send us an email, and we’d be happy to assist!

How do I get from the Airport to the hotel?

We offer free airport transfers from and to Marrakech airport. The airport transfer is scheduled for arrivals on the first day of the retreat and departures on the last day of the retreat. If you are arriving on an earlier or later flight, or at a different airport we can easily arrange transfers at an additional cost.

Is there wifi at the hotels?

Wifi is available for free in the hotels (only in the lobby in the Atlas Mountains). You can also purchase a Moroccan SIM card that includes phone calls and mobile data from the airport if you wish to stay connected outside the hotel. The most common Mobile network operators are: Maroc Telecom, Inwi and Orange.

What are the hotel rooms' amenities?

The following items are readily available at our hotels: mineral water, soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, safe, electric kettle, tea, tissue box, towels.

Is laundry service available at the hotels?

Yes! All our hotels offer same or next day laundry service at a small additional fee. 

How do we travel around?

Professional drivers and luxury mini vans will be at our disposal during the duration of the retreat and will be transporting us to and from all planned activities.  

What is the weather going to be like?

Morocco is at its most beautiful in Spring (April to June) when it is dry and warm, and the landscape is green and lush; and in fall (September to December) when it is sunny and pleasant. The temperature ranges from low 20s °C (70 °F) to mid 30s °C (90 °F). Temperatures do drop at night, the evenings can feel a bit chilly at this time of year, especially in the desert, so make sure you take a light coat or jacket to keep you warm after the sun sets.

How long will the travel times be?

2.5 hours from Casablanca International Airport to Marrakech

3 hours from Casablanca International Airport to The Atlas Mountains

15 min from Marrakech Menara Airport to Marrakech

1 hour from Marrakech Menara Airport to The Atlas Mountains

1 hour drive from Marrakech to The Atlas Mountains

1 hour drive from Marrakech or The Atlas Mountains to Agafay Desert

2.5 hours from Marrakech to Essaouira

3.5 hours from Essaouira to Casablanca International Airport 

2.5 hours from Essaouira to Marrakech Menara Airport 

Can you briefly describe Morocco?

Morocco is a country where African, Arab and European cultures are entwined. It is situated on the far northwestern corner of Africa; it is the closest point of contact to Europe for Africa. Morocco has a population of over 35 million and an area of 172,410 sq. mi (446,550 sq. km). Its capital is Rabat, and the largest city is Casablanca. Other major cities include Marrakech, Tangier, Essaouira, Fes and Meknes.

Is Morocco safe?

Yes! Morocco is as safe as most European countries and is the safest country to travel to in all of Africa. It has extremely low levels of petty crime, and incidents of violent crime are almost non-existent, making it a highly secure destination. While visiting, it's wise to exercise a normal level of caution, as you would anywhere else. Be sure to remain mindful of your belongings and surroundings. Solo female travelers should adhere to the usual precautions and dress modestly near religious sites, by covering shoulders and knees, to minimize unwanted attention.

In addition to the regular police force, Morocco employs a specialized tourist police force dedicated to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. They actively address concerns such as fake guides.

Moroccans are also known for their extreme friendliness and hospitality, which further adds to the sense of safety for visitors.

What languages are spoken in Morocco?

Standard Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) are the two official languages of Morocco. However, Darija - Moroccan Arabic Dialect - is the main spoken language. French is the third language for most Moroccans, followed by Spanish and English.

What religions are practiced in Morocco?

The Moroccan constitution grants religious freedom, while recognizing Islam as the official national religion. The second-largest religion in the country is Judaism followed by Christianity.

What currency is used in Morocco?

The currency used in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham, abbreviated as Dh. The official currency code for Dirhams is MAD. The exchange rates fluctuate but generally: 1 USD=9 Dirhams. It is easy to exchange for Dh at airports, banks, exchange offices and most major seaport stations. Cash is still the most commonly used means of payment in most places but most restaurants, bars, reputable shops and tourist attractions will accept major credit cards (some souk shops in markets accept credit cards but may charge a 5-10% surcharge).

How much cash do I need to bring to Morocco?

You can carry up to $10,000 in cash. Depending on what you intend to purchase, we recommend you don't bring over USD 5,000 in cash, to exchange between $500 and $1,000 at the airport to start and to make sure you receive MOROCCAN DIRHAMS. 

Do I need a visa to visit Morocco?

American, Canadian, and EU citizens don’t need a visa to travel to Morocco. Most travelers from other countries can also visit Morocco without applying for a visa if their trip is not exceeding three months. We recommend that you check the current regulations with the Moroccan Embassy in your country of citizenship before you travel. Morocco requires that all travelers carry a passport that is valid for at least six months from the time they enter Morocco. 

Can I drink alcohol in Morocco?

You are free to drink in private or where alcohol is being served. Alcohol is widely sold in hotels, restaurants, bars, liquor stores, supermarkets and in tourist areas. However, drinking alcohol in the street or near religious places isn’t allowed.

Are there any specific rules to be respected in Morocco?

Morocco is a country known for its amazing hospitality! It is a moderate Muslim country in which certain rules and customs are to be respected: 

Avoid public displays of affection, particularly near religious places.

Entering a mosque is not allowed for non-Muslims. Photographing a mosque is usually acceptable, so long as you're not too close or appear to be photographing the interior.

Moroccans typically greet with a handshake but also often with two kisses between people of the same sex. You should extend your hand first if that makes you uncomfortable.

You will often be offered tea and snacks when entering shops or touristy locations. Feel free to politely decline if you do not wish to drink or eat.

Do I need vaccines?

COVID-19 vaccine is no longer required to enter Morocco.

We created a specific page for COVID-19 FAQs, see HERE. 

No other specific vaccines are required for travel to Morocco.

Do I need a power adapter for my electrical items?

In Morocco the power sockets are of type C (standard European plug) and E (French plug). The standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric appliances in Morocco, if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220 - 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa). If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100 V - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), you need a voltage converter in Morocco. You can find voltage converters on Amazon. You can also consider a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter. The hotel provides power plug adapters upon request but does not provide voltage converters.

What is the tipping policy in Morocco?

Tipping in Morocco is customary, so you will be expected to leave a tip in a number of places during your travels. There is no standard amount that you should always leave but here are a few examples:

Café 10 Dh

Bar 30-50 Dh

Simple restaurant / street food 30 Dh

Smarter restaurant 100-200 Dh

Hotel porter 50-100 Dh

Guardian for car parking 10-20 Dh

Guide / Driver 100-200 Dh

Spa 50-100 Dh

Even though it is customary to tip in Morocco, your generosity is completely up to you and is subject to your satisfaction. If you would like to tip, please base your tip off of the guide above, never ask the tippee how much they are expecting to receive.

How and where do I shop in Morocco?

Souks (markets) are a major feature of Moroccan life, and among the country’s greatest attractions. Every town has a Souk area in the medina (old section of the city). Each souk specializes in a certain type of product, like spices, traditional clothing, jewelry, leather goods, pottery, lamps, or carpets. Nowadays most souks overlap, and most medinas don't partition at all. We will be taking you on a guided tour of the Souks. Bargaining in the souks is a part of the Moroccan culture and you are expected to do so. So don’t be shy about driving the price down, but do it with a smile and a sense of good fun! Prices are fixed in malls, franchises, and stores outside of the souks.