Are you planning to visit Morocco soon? Do you have questions about tipping in Morocco? You’re in the right place. Tipping is an important part of Moroccan culture, and it’s essential to understand the customs and etiquette surrounding it.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the essential information about Moroccan money and tipping, so you can enjoy your trip to Morocco without any financial surprises.

Moroccan Currency and Payment Methods

Morocco’s currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD), which is divided into 100 centimes. The exchange rate fluctuates but is generally around 1 MAD to 0.11 USD.

You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, or hotels, but banks usually offer the best exchange rates. ATMs are widely available in Moroccan cities, and most of them accept international cards.

When it comes to payment methods, credit cards are widely accepted in shops, hotels, and high-end restaurants in the new and old medina of Moroccan cities.

However, in small towns and local markets, cash is king. You’ll need to carry some cash with you at all times, especially when traveling to rural areas.

What is the Moroccan Tipping Culture?

Moroccan Money & Tipping Guide

Generous Tipping or “baksheesh” is a widespread practice in Morocco, and it is expected in many situations.

It is customary to tip in restaurants, cafes, riad or hotels, taxis, and other service industries. However, the amount of the tip varies depending on the situation.

Tipping in Morocco is not just a way of showing appreciation for good service. It is also a way of building relationships and showing respect. Tipping can also be a way of bargaining, especially in markets and souks.

How Much To Tip in Morocco?

tipping in Morocco

The key things to remember are tipping based on service, tipping in dirhams when feasible, and checking hotel tip expectations.

  • Restaurants/Cafes:
    • 10-15% of the bill for exceptional service
    • 5-10Dh for good service
  • Hotels:
    • 20-50Dh per day for housekeepers
    • 10-20Dh for bellhops per bag
    • 20-50Dh for helpful concierge
  • Taxis:
    • Round up the fare to the nearest 5 or 10Dh
    • 10-20Dh extra for long rides
  • Markets:
    • Tipping is optional
    • 5-10Dh for great service after bargaining
  • Tip in local currency (Dh) when possible
  • Base tip amount on service quality
  • Confirm hotel tipping policies

Following local tipping etiquette demonstrates respect for Moroccan culture and customs.

Who Should You Tip in Morocco?

You should tip anyone who provides you with a service. This includes waiters, hotel staff, drivers, and tour guides. You should also tip street performers and musicians if you enjoy their performance.

When Should You Tip in Morocco?

You should tip after the service has been provided.

  • In restaurants and cafes, you should leave the tip on the table.
  • In hotels, you can leave the tip on the dresser or hand it directly to the staff.
  • In taxis, you should hand the tip to the driver after you arrive at your destination.

Also Read: 4 Best Sahara Desert Tour Destinations in Morocco

Ultimate Guide to Tipping in Morocco

Tipping in Morocco is a common practice, and it’s expected in most situations. However, it’s important to understand the customs and etiquette surrounding tipping to avoid any misunderstandings.

Here are some things you should know about tipping in Morocco:

Tipping Customs at Hotels in Morocco

tipping at hotel

Tipping at hotels is also common. It’s customary in Morocco to tip the porter who carries your luggage to your room. You can tip around 5-10 MAD per bag.

Additionally, you can leave a tip for the housekeeping staff, which is usually around 20-30 MAD per day. If you’re staying at a luxury hotel, it’s common to tip more.

Tipping at Cafes and Restaurants in Morocco

Tipping at restaurants and cafes in Morocco is culture, and it’s usually around 10% of the total bill. However, if the service was exceptional, you can tip more. You can leave the tip on the table or give it to the waiter directly.

It’s essential to note that some restaurants and cafes might include a service charge in the bill. If that’s the case, you don’t have to tip unless you want to show extra appreciation.

Moreover, If you are dining at a street vendor or small café, you can leave some small change or round up the bill.

Tipping Tour Guides in Morocco

Tipping your tour guides in Morocco is a common practice, and the amount of the tip depends on the length of the guided tour and the quality of the experience.

It is customary to tip 20-30 dirhams per person per day for a day tour, while for a multi-day or group tour, a tip of 50-100 dirhams per person per day is appropriate.

Moroccan tipping culture

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Tipping Etiquette for Transportation and Taxis Drivers in Morocco

Tipping for taxis and transportation in Morocco is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated. If you hire a private driver who helps you with your bags or provides exceptional service, you can round up the fare or tip around 10% of the total fare.

Tipping Guidelines For Luggage Attendants / Porters

Here are some tips for tipping luggage attendants/porters in Morocco:

  • At airports: About 5-10 dirhams per bag is appropriate. If they help all the way to the taxi, tip 10-20 dirhams.
  • At hotels: Tip 5-10 dirhams per bag. For bags to room service, tip 10-20 dirhams.
  • At train or bus stations: Tip 5-10 dirhams per bag.
  • For tour guide porters: Tip 20-50 dirhams per day depending on service.
  • For cruise or ferry porters: Tip 10-20 dirhams per bag.
  • Tip more for heavy bags or great service that goes above and beyond.
  • Tips are appreciated in dirhams. Dollars or euros work too.
  • Follow local tipping customs, but use discretion. Under-tipping can offend.
  • Confirm hotel tipping policies, as some include charges already.

The tip amount can vary based on service quality and satisfaction. But following these guidelines shows respect for porters’ hard work. A little dirham tip can go a long way in Morocco!

Other Services

You can tip tour guides, hairdressers, and spa staff between 10 Dirhams to 20 Dirhams for services such as henna tattoos or camel rides, negotiate the price beforehand, and leave a small tip if you are satisfied with the service.

You may also check out our popular tours from different cities;

What Are Some Tipping Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco?

tipping for tour guide

  1. Do tip in cash.
  2. Do tip waiters, hotel staff, tour drivers, and local guides.
  3. Do round up to the nearest fare in taxis or restaurants.
  4. Do bargain in markets and souks.
  5. Do not tip police officers or government officials.
  6. Do not feel obligated to tip if the service was poor.
  7. Do not tip if it is not customary in the situation.

Smart Tips for Tipping Culture in Morocco

  1. Always carry small bills and change to avoid over-tipping or under-tipping.
  2. Be respectful when haggling and don’t haggle too aggressively.
  3. If you’re unsure about the tipping customs in a particular situation, it’s always a good idea to ask a local guide or tour leader for advice.
  4. When tipping in Moroccan currency, it’s recommended to use smaller denominations such as 5 or 10 MAD notes to avoid over-tipping or creating a hassle for the recipient.

FAQs About Tipping in Morocco

Do I need to tip everyone in Morocco?

No, tipping is a common practice in Morocco, but it is not mandatory to tip everyone you come across.

In most cases, tipping is expected for services provided in the hospitality and service industries, such as hotels and restaurants, cafes, and taxis. It is also common to tip spa staff, tour guides, and drivers.

However, it is not necessary to tip every person you encounter, such as street vendors or salespeople. Also, the decision to tip and the amount you choose to give is at your discretion and should reflect the level of service provided.

Can I tip in US dollars, euros, or British pounds in Morocco? What is the best currency to use for tipping?

Yes, it is generally acceptable to tip in US dollars, euros, or British pounds in Morocco, especially in major tourist areas. However, tipping in the local currency (Moroccan dirhams) is preferable.

Some tips on tipping with foreign currency in Morocco:

  • Dirhams are best if possible since that is the official currency. Locals appreciate tips in the local money.
  • US dollars are widely accepted for tipping, especially in cities and at hotels/restaurants used to tourists.
  • Euros are also usually fine for tipping, but confirm if a euro tip is acceptable first.
  • British pounds can work too, but confirm if the staff will accept pounds before tipping.
  • Avoid tipping with coins in foreign currencies. Stick to $1, €1 or £1 bills and up.
  • Check current exchange rates so you tip appropriate amounts in foreign cash.
  • Be aware that torn or extremely worn foreign bills may not be accepted.

So while dirhams are ideal, tipping in major foreign currencies is generally not an issue in tourist areas of Morocco. Just politely check if US dollars, euros, or pounds are acceptable before tipping.

With a little courtesy, foreign cash tips are appreciated for good service.

How much should I tip in restaurants and cafes in Morocco?

When dining at restaurants and cafes in Morocco, it is appropriate to leave a tip for the service provided.

As per local customs, a tip of 10% of the total bill is generally expected. However, if the service is exceptional, you may consider leaving a larger tip of up to 15%.

It’s worth noting that while tipping is customary in Morocco, it’s not obligatory, and ultimately the decision to tip and the amount you choose to give is at your discretion.

Should I tip taxi drivers in Morocco?

Yes, it is generally expected to tip cab drivers as a gesture of appreciation for their services.

It is recommended to give around 10% of the fare to the driver as a gratuity. This will not only show your gratitude but also help to establish a positive relationship with the driver.

If you are getting the service of a driver for a full day, 100 dirhams is a decent tip, however, if it’s a half-day tour 20-50 dirhams is good.

Do I need to tip hotel staff in Morocco?

Yes, it is expected to tip hotel staff in Morocco, especially if you receive good service. A small tip for the maid every day and a tip for the concierge or the porter is appropriate.

Can I negotiate the tip amount in Morocco?

No, it is not common to negotiate the tip amount in Morocco. The amount of the tip depends on the service provided, the establishment, and the quality of the experience.

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