2026 Morocco CLE

Airfare is not included with your registration — you’ll arrange your flights separately. If you’d like help with air planning, timing, or the best ways to arrive into Casablanca (CMN), just let us know!

A valid passport is required to enter Morocco. Many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates — confirm your specific requirements with the Moroccan consulate or the U.S. State Department before departure.
(Traveler tip: Carry a printed copy of your ID page separate from your passport.)

Travel protection is not included in your trip price. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers medical, trip cancellation/interruption, and baggage protection well before departure. We will offer you this insurance and you have the option to waive protection.

Transportation from the Casablanca airport (CMN) to the hotel will be provided on arrival and departure dates. Detailed instructions — including meeting point, transportation times, and what to do if your flight is delayed — will be sent before departure.

If you have any questions before or during your trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. I’m here to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

For your safety and peace of mind, I also recommend leaving my contact information, along with your travel itinerary, with a trusted family member or friend at home. This ensures that someone can reach you—or me—if needed while you’re away.

Mary DeSpain – 907‑231‑2111

If you need emergency services while in Morocco, please see the following:

• Ambulance & Fire: Dial 15

• Police: Dial 19

• Medical Assistance on Site / at Hotels: Contact hotel reception or concierge for guidance

• Airport or Port Assistance: Contact local airport information desks or your transport coordinator

(Traveler tip: Keep hotel and tour operator phone numbers handy while on excursions.)

This trip involves moderate activity, with most days combining guided city tours, cultural site visits, and optional walking excursions. Guests should be comfortable walking at a leisurely to steady pace on uneven streets, cobblestones, steps, and market areas. All activities are optional, allowing travelers to tailor their experience to their comfort level.

KAAN Casablanca
A modern, boutique-style hotel in the heart of Casablanca, KAAN blends contemporary design with Moroccan cultural touches. Guests will enjoy comfortable, well-appointed rooms with quality bedding and private bathrooms. The hotel’s central location makes it ideal for exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, dining, and cultural attractions.
Address: 1 Rue Ghandi, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
Website: https://kaanhotels.com/en

Barceló Fès Medina
Located near the historic Fez Medina, Barceló Fès Medina offers a blend of modern comfort and Moroccan charm. Rooms are spacious and equipped for relaxation after full days of sightseeing. Onsite amenities include restaurants, bars, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool, with concierge services to assist with excursions. Its prime location provides easy access to Fez’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and bustling medina streets.
Address: Avenue Mohammed VI, Fès 30000, Morocco
Website: https://www.barcelo.com/fr-fr/barcelo-fes-medina/

Grand Plaza Hotel Marrakech
Situated in the dynamic city of Marrakech, the Grand Plaza Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy onsite dining, relaxing lounges, and convenient access to Marrakech’s famous souks, plazas, and cultural landmarks. The hotel serves as a relaxing retreat after guided tours and excursions.
Address: Avenue Mohamed VI, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
Website: https://grandplazamarrakech.com/

Morocco is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions apply. Watch for petty theft in crowded markets or tourist areas, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and stay aware of your surroundings. Violent crime is rare but pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in busy medinas or public transport. Health-wise, stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and ensure you have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. Always carry your passport and a copy while sightseeing.

• Day 1, Arrival, Welcome Reception
• Day 2, CLE Sessions, CLE Attendee Lunch, Morocco City Tour
• Day 3, Overnight Tour Casablanca – Rabat – Fez, Dinner at Barcelo -Hotel Fez
• Day 4, Overnight Tour of Fez El Bali (Old Fez) and Fez El Jedid (New Fez), Lunch at Bab Sahra, Dinner at Riad Fes
• Day 5, Overnight Tour: Fez – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez, Dinner at Fez
• Day 6, Continued Tour Fez – Ifrane – Marrakech
• Day 7, Marrakech Sightseeing, Dinner at Chez Ali
• Day 8, CLE Sessions
• Day 9, Departure

Destination CLEs requires advance notification of food allergies and dietary restrictions to properly prepare for your trip.

Helpful PACKING LIST

Weather Overview (Late October – Early November):

• Autumn in Morocco is generally mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures around 65–80°F (18–27°C) in coastal and city areas, and cooler mornings/evenings.

• Inland cities like Fez and Marrakech can be hot during the day and cooler at night, especially in desert-adjacent areas.

• Occasional light rain is possible, particularly in northern coastal regions.

• Sunlight is moderate, so sunny days are common but mornings and evenings can be crisp.

What to Pack:

• Layered clothing (breathable tops, long pants, light sweaters or fleece) for variable temperatures

• Lightweight jacket or water-resistant coat for rain or wind

• Comfortable walking shoes suitable for cobblestone streets, medinas, and market areas

• Compact umbrella or packable rain jacket

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny afternoons

• Light scarf or shawl for cooler evenings or for modesty when visiting religious sites

• Smart-casual attire for dinners or evening events

• Optional: dressier outfit for specialty restaurants or cultural events

During the 2026 Morocco CLE trip, casual, comfortable clothing is recommended for travel days, CLE sessions, and city sightseeing. When exploring medinas, markets, or religious sites, modest attire is advised—covering shoulders and knees is appreciated. Smart-casual clothing works well for dinners and evening activities, and a dressier outfit is optional for special cultural dinners or events. Hats, tank tops, and swimsuits are only appropriate at hotel or pool areas.

It is recommended to bring some U.S. dollars or Moroccan dirhams for tipping, small purchases, or transportation during excursions. Converting $500–$1,000 USD is usually sufficient, but carrying cash is optional. ATMs are widely available in major cities like Casablanca, Fez, and Marrakech.

• Currency Name: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) | Symbol: د.م
• Exchange Rate: Varies; check current rates before travel.
• Cash: Useful for local markets, small shops, taxis, and rural excursions. Carry small denominations (20–200 MAD) for convenience.
• ATMs: Widely available in cities; most accept international debit and credit cards.
• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Always carry some cash as a backup in smaller towns or medinas.
• Currency Exchange: Available at airports, banks, hotels, or authorized exchange offices. ATMs often offer competitive rates.

Wi‑Fi & Cellular in Morocco

• Wi‑Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafés, restaurants, and airports in major cities; reliability may be lower in smaller towns.

• Local SIM/eSIM: Best for data, texting, and calls. Available at airports, shops, or online. Passport required for SIM purchase.

• Roaming: Home carrier plans work but can be expensive; consider global roaming or local SIM/eSIM.

• Pocket Wi‑Fi: Optional for multiple devices; convenient but pricier.

• Traveler Tip: Download offline maps and apps before arrival; keep your phone unlocked for local SIM use.

Morocco is a country with a rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions, so being mindful of local customs will enhance your experience. Greetings are usually polite and friendly—handshakes are common, but in more conservative areas, men and women may avoid physical contact. When visiting religious sites, modest dress is expected (cover shoulders and knees), and shoes should be removed before entering mosques or private homes.

In markets and medinas, bargaining is customary, but always do so respectfully. Public displays of affection are uncommon, and loud behavior may draw attention. Moroccans take pride in hospitality, cleanliness, and community respect, so dispose of trash properly and follow guidance from guides or locals. Tipping is customary in restaurants, for drivers, and for guides, and small gestures of courtesy are appreciated.

Being aware of these customs will help you navigate daily life comfortably while fully enjoying Morocco’s unique cultural experiences.