Pre-Trip Checklist: Ouarzazate

Essential Preparations

A chronological timeline outlines actions for a well-organized trip.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure passport validity extends six months beyond your return date.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights to Ouarzazate (OZZ) or connecting airports.

Accommodation Research

Research and make initial bookings for Ouarzazate accommodation.

Month Before

Vaccinations

Obtain any required or recommended vaccinations from a travel clinic.

Travel Insurance

Arrange travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies and trip disruptions.

International Driving Permit

Secure an International Driving Permit (IDP) for car rental plans.

Week Before

Booking Confirmation

Confirm all flight, hotel, and tour bookings.

App Downloads

Download offline maps and translation apps to your phone.

Home Arrangements

Secure your home, arrange mail, and coordinate pet care.

Advance Bookings

Items to Book

Flights to and from Ouarzazate.
Main accommodations, specifically during peak season.
Multi-day desert tours from Ouarzazate.
Intercity bus tickets (CTM/Supratours).

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarity with the destination enhances your experience.

Topics for Research

Moroccan culture and social norms.
Basic Arabic (Darija) or French phrases.
Current events relevant to the region.
Local currency and exchange rate basics.

Home Preparation

Taking care of your home before leaving creates peace of mind for your trip.

Security Measures

Secure all doors and windows.
Set timers for lights.
Turn off unnecessary water supply.
Unplug electronics to save energy.

Administrative Tasks

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Pay any upcoming bills to avoid issues.
Notify banks/credit card companies of travel plans.
Organize digital and physical document copies.

Pet & Plant Care

Coordinate pet sitting or boarding.
Arrange for plant watering.
Provide caretaker with emergency contacts.
Share your itinerary with family or friends.

Final Preparations

On the day before departure, charge all your electronics and Portable power banks. Perform a final packing check against your list.

Arrival & Departure Flow

Streamline your arrival and departure processes for a comfortable journey.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration Clearance:
Have your passport and any required arrival cards ready for customs.
2
Currency Exchange:
Exchange a small amount of currency or use an ATM for immediate needs.
3
Local SIM Card:
Purchase a local SIM card if mobile data access is a priority.

Orientation Strategies

Neighborhood Familiarization:
Upon reaching your accommodation, take time to explore the immediate vicinity.
Essential Services:
Locate nearby ATMs, pharmacies, and mini-markets for convenience.
Local Map Use:
Obtain a local map from your hotel or utilize your offline map app for bearings.

Transportation from Entry Point

Airport Taxis

Utilize official taxis located outside Ouarzazate Airport terminals.

Confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your journey.

Hotel Transfers

If your hotel offers a transfer service, this choice offers the easiest start to your trip.

Pre-booking this service streamlines your arrival.

Initial Currency Needs

Exchange enough cash for your initial taxi ride and a few meals.

ATMs represent a good option for further withdrawals.

Departure Reconfirmation

Reconfirm your flight or bus times at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure. This prevents any last-minute surprises.

Departure Logistics

Souvenirs & Shipping

For large items (e.g., carpets), arrange shipping well in advance.
Keep receipts for customs purposes for any significant purchases.
Inquire about VAT refund procedures if applicable to your purchases.
Morocco features a VAT refund system for non-residents on purchases over 2,000 MAD.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
For bus departures, arrive at the station at least 30 minutes early for luggage check-in.
Ensure you have enough local currency for airport transfers and last-minute expenses.
Organize your luggage, confirming all belongings account for.

Flight Departures

Ensure a seamless departure from Ouarzazate Airport.

Check-in and Customs

Airline check-in:2-3 hours prior
Baggage drop:Same as check-in
Security screening:Allow 45-60 min
Boarding gate access:30-45 min prior

Pre-Boarding Details

Have boarding pass and passport readily available.
Confirm gate number and boarding time on display screens.
Adhere to baggage weight and size restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage.
Complete any last-minute duty-free shopping if desired.

Final Currency Use

Spend any remaining Moroccan Dirhams before departure. Dirhams cannot be exported from Morocco.

Consider purchasing last-minute souvenirs or snacks at the airport.

Pre-Trip Checklist