Safi Morocco Travel Guide
Find kiosks or official stores for major mobile providers like Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange at airports or within Safi. Your passport is needed for registration. Data plans are affordable, giving good internet access throughout the city.
Morocco's the main languages are Arabic (Moroccan Darija, a distinct dialect) and Amazigh (Berber). French is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist businesses. English is less common but understood in larger hotels and by younger generations.
Learning a few basic phrases in Moroccan Darija will be greatly appreciated by locals and can enhance your interactions.
A little effort goes a long way in making connections with locals.
Practice a few Darija phrases before you arrive. Locals value the effort, even if your pronunciation is not perfect.
Shops: Typically open from 9 o'clock AM to 1 PM, then reopen from 3 PM to 7 PM or later. Souks: Open roughly from 9 AM to 7 PM. Banks and Post Offices: Typically weekdays, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Attractions/Museums: Varies by site, generally 9 AM or 10 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM; many close Mondays.
Morocco observes Islamic and public holidays. Ramadan significantly reduces business hours. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha bring widespread closures. Bank Holidays mean banks and government offices close.
Some smaller, locally-run businesses may have restricted schedules or seasonal closures, especially during low tourist season or very hot summer periods.
Confirm dates of major holidays in advance, as they can impact transportation and service availability.
Check local calendars for holidays. Plan things to do around confirmed opening hours for a smoother visit.
Observing local customs makes for a more respectful and comfortable experience in Safi.
SHAKING hands is typical for greeting men. For close friends, two kisses on the cheek are customary. Use 'Salam Alaikum' for a polite general greeting. Modest dress for ladies, covering shoulders and knees, shows respect, especially in religious or traditional areas.
Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women and kids. Respect 'no photography' signs. Avoid photographing military or police personnel. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Do not criticize the King or Islam. Avoid open alcohol consumption outside designated areas. Do not offer your left hand for greetings or handling food/money.
Non-Muslims generally cannot enter mosque prayer halls (except Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca). Respect prayer times; avoid loud noises near mosques. Remove shoes if entering a mosque exterior courtyard.
Safi, like many older Moroccan cities, has accessibility challenges.
Image: A typical Moroccan street sign, often in Arabic and French, highlighting language context.
