FAQs

Question

Do you have any hotel recommendations?

Answer

Please go to the Hotel section of the Travel page for important accommodation details. For anyone interested in their own Moroccan adventure on either end of our wedding weekend, please get in touch. We've got plenty to share.

Question

Which airport should I fly into?

Answer

Please check out the Travel page for guidance on getting to, and around, Morocco.

Question

Do I need a passport or visa?

Answer

Passport: Yes Visa: No All travelers will need a valid passport expiring at least six months after your travel dates. Most U.S., UK, Canadian, and European Union citizens do not need a visa.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Yes. Please refer to the Schedule page for event-specific attire guidance.

Question

Can I take pictures during the ceremony?

Answer

We kindly request that guests do not take photos during the Wedding Ceremony. We will have professional photographers to capture every moment so our guests can unplug and enjoy! (You should, however, take tons of photos of the Kasbah and its setting while you are there.)

Question

What language is spoken?

Answer

Morocco has two official languages: Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). Arabic is the most widely spoken language, while French serves as the primary language of commerce, government, and education. Many Moroccans working in the tourism industry, particularly in Marrakech, speak English. Many of the Kasbah staff speak all four!

Question

What currency is used?

Answer

Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). $1 = ~9-10 MADs. • Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants. • Cash is best for the Medina markets and small purchases. • ATMs are widely available in cities and towns.

Question

Will my phone work?

Answer

Yes, your U.S.-carrier phone will work with a roaming plan. A local SIM card can also be purchased at the airport. Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels and restaurants. Note: The Kasbah is in the foothills of a mountain range, abutting a national park. While your phone and data plan will work (and there is Wi-Fi in the main building), it will not be at high speed. Calls and texts will work just fine. but streaming video can be challenging.

Question

What is the weather like in January?

Answer

January at the Kasbah Bab Ourika is cool, crisp, and refreshing. Days are typically mild and sunny, while mornings and evenings can be chilly in the mountains. What temperatures should we expect? Daytime temperatures range from the 50s to low 60s °F (10–17 °C). In the afternoon, by the pool, it will be in the 70s. In the early mornings and evenings, temperatures will drop into the 40s °F (4–9°C), so pack layers. Is it cold all day? Not at all! While mornings and nights are cool, the sun warms things up nicely during the day—especially when you’re sitting on the terrace or by the pool. Will I need a coat? We recommend bringing a light jacket, sweater, or shawl for layering. Nothing heavy is needed, but you’ll be glad to have an extra layer after sunset. Can we still enjoy the pool? Yes! Afternoons are usually sunny and comfortable, and the pool is heated—so a swimsuit is absolutely worth packing. Does it rain or snow? Rain is possible but infrequent. While we hope to see the higher Atlas peaks covered in snow, snowfall at the Kasbah itself is rare.

Question

Is Morocco safe?

Answer

Yes! Morocco is a popular destination with a tourism-driven economy and hospitality-oriented culture. It is generally very safe for visitors. Like any foreign travel destination, guests should take standard safety precautions—being aware of your surroundings, keeping personal items secured in your room, and traveling with a buddy or two.

Question

Do women need to cover their hair?

Answer

No—head coverings are not required. While some Muslim Moroccan women cover their hair, many do not. Foreigners are not expected to. The one exception would be if you choose to visit certain religious sites.

Question

Is the food and water safe?

Answer

Yes—and the food is one of the highlights of the trip! • Moroccan cuisine is fresh and flavorful. • Stick to bottled water for drinking, including at the Kasbah. Some places may have potable water, but it's not worth the risk.

Question

Is alcohol available?

Answer

Yes, though its availability is limited. Hotels and restaurants catering to tourists serve alcohol. The Kasbah has a full bar and unique selection of Moroccan wines.

Question

What is Marrakech like?

Answer

Marrakech is vibrant, lively, and full of contrast. • Bustling streets, motorbikes, donkey carts, and market stalls. • Ornate doors, mosaic-ed courtyards, palm trees, and rooftop terraces. • The sounds of the call to prayer, music, and conversation can feel intense at first—but give it time. The rhythm becomes part of the magic.

Question

What is the Medina?

Answer

The Medina is the hear of the historic old city. It is: • Walkable, but a maze. Getting turned around is normal—and part of the adventure. (Google Maps will work to get you back out.) • Filled with souks (markets), Riads (lodging houses, like a Bed & Breakfast), cafés, and artisan shops.

Question

Should I bargain in markets?

Answer

Sure! Bargaining is expected and a fun part of the experience.

Question

How do we get around?

Answer

For transportation to/from the airport to/from the Kasbah, please see the Airport section of the Travel page. For any travel on your own: Cities are very walkable. Taxis within cities are a great option, but note: 1) they are communal and 2) they may not go directly to you destination (like an Uber Pool, when that was a thing). Private drivers are affordable and abundant for transfers around or between cities. Ridesharing apps are limited. The Kasbah (or your Riad/hotel elsewhere) can help arrange any transportation you need.

Question

What to Pack?

Answer

To help you feel comfortable and prepared for the wedding weekend at Kasbah Bab Ourika, here’s a suggested packing list: Wedding Weekend Attire Cocktail attire for the Welcome Dinner and Rehearsal Dinner Black Tie attire for the Ceremony & Reception Comfortable outfit for the Send‑Off Brunch (Nap Dresses encouraged 😉) Pool & Relaxation Swimsuit (even in January—sunny afternoons and a heated pool make it worthwhile!) Cover‑up or light layers Sun hat & sunglasses Layers for January Weather Light jacket, sweater, or shawl for mornings and evenings Long‑sleeve tops and comfortable daytime layers Scarf (handy for warmth and exploring) Footwear Dress shoes for weddings and dinners Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for paths, gardens, and excursions Sandals or flats for relaxing around the kasbah Daytime & Activities Casual outfits for lounging, meals, and activities Activewear if you plan to hike, do yoga, or explore Small backpack or tote for outings Extras to Consider Pajamas & loungewear Travel adapters (Morocco uses Type C & E outlets) Sunscreen & moisturizer (mountain sun + dry air)

Question

Anything else I should know?

Answer

• Morocco is warm and welcoming—hospitality is a point of pride, particularly in Berber regions like the Ourika Valley. • Comfortable shoes are a must (you’ll probably be walking more than you think). • Leave room in your suitcase—you’ll want to bring treasures home!