Tipping in Marrakech - Everything You Need to Know
Tipping in Marrakech is a common practice and a way to show appreciation for good service across the city's hospitality, dining, and tourism sectors. For many workers in these industries, tips make a significant difference in their income, as entry-level jobs in Morocco often pay modest monthly salaries ranging from $200 to $300. These additional gratuities help supplement low wages and enable workers to support themselves and their families. While tipping is not mandatory in Marrakech, it is strongly encouraged for good service and is generally seen as a polite gesture to recognize the hard work that goes into ensuring a pleasant experience for tourists.
Where and When to Tip in Marrakech
1. Restaurants and Cafés
In most restaurants and cafés in Marrakech, tipping is customary if you’ve received good service. Waitstaff typically earn modest wages, and your tip helps supplement their income. A standard tip is around 10-15% of the bill, though in high-end establishments, it may be closer to 20%. For smaller cafés, rounding up the bill is sufficient, especially if you've only ordered drinks or light snacks.
It’s always best to give the tip in cash, even if you pay for your meal by card. Leaving cash directly with the server ensures they receive the gratuity, as card payments sometimes don’t include a designated space for tipping, and your generosity might not reach the staff directly. It’s important to remember that tipping is optional, so only offer what you feel comfortable with or what aligns with the quality of service provided.
2. Hotels
Tipping at hotels is customary, especially for services provided by bellhops, housekeeping, and concierge staff. Bellhops, for instance, typically appreciate a tip of around 10-20 MAD per bag, depending on the service and the weight of the luggage. Housekeeping staff usually appreciate a small daily tip, around 10-20 MAD per day, left in the room with a note indicating it’s for housekeeping.
If a concierge assists you with arranging tours, transportation, or restaurant bookings, a tip of around 50 MAD is a generous way to thank them. Similar to restaurants, it’s best to tip in cash to ensure the money goes directly to the person who provided the service. Hotel staff members often rely on tips to make up for low wages, so a small amount goes a long way in showing appreciation.
3. Tour Guides and Drivers
Tour guides and drivers are commonly tipped in Marrakech, as they play a big role in ensuring tourists enjoy their visit. For a half-day tour, a tip of 50-100 MAD is customary, while a full-day tour typically warrants a higher tip, around 100-200 MAD per person. Guides often share insights into Marrakech’s culture, history, and hidden gems, so tipping is a way to show gratitude for their knowledge and effort.
Private drivers or taxi drivers are also often tipped, especially if they’ve gone out of their way to make your journey more comfortable. For short rides, rounding up the fare is appropriate, but for longer trips, a tip of 10-20 MAD is a nice gesture. Remember, tipping is optional, and you shouldn’t feel pressured to tip if the service was subpar.
Palace, Museum, Madrasa & Medina Highlights Tour
Delve into the rich history of Bahia Palace, the stunning Madrasa Ben Youssef, and the Dar El Bacha Museum on a guided tour of Marrakech. Experience the lively atmosphere of the medina and its market.
4. Hammams and Spas
When visiting a hammam or spa in Marrakech, tipping is a way to show appreciation for the service and attention to detail provided by staff. Masseuses and attendants typically receive a tip of 10-20% of the total service cost, depending on the quality of service. Since hammams are a traditional Moroccan experience, tipping ensures that the workers, who often earn modest salaries, are adequately compensated for their time and effort.
For services like massages or scrubs, you might consider tipping each individual who attended to you. Keep in mind that spa staff rely heavily on tips, so your generosity goes a long way. Cash tips are usually preferred, as it avoids any delays in getting the gratuity to the right person.
5. Street Performers and Market Vendors
In bustling areas like Jemaa el-Fnaa, you’ll find street performers, musicians, and snake charmers. While it’s not mandatory to tip performers, a small contribution, around 5-10 MAD, is appreciated if you stop to watch or take photos. Tipping vendors in the souks (markets) is less common, as prices are usually negotiated upfront. However, rounding up or leaving a small amount can be a nice gesture if you’ve received exceptional service.
Street Food Tour with a Local Guide
Sample dishes you've never heard of and learn about typical Moroccan fare on a guided street food tour in Marrakech. Explore with a foodie and savor a selection of treats from local vendors.
Tips for Tipping in Marrakech
- Carry Small Change: Since many tipping situations involve small amounts, carrying coins and small bills (5, 10, or 20 MAD) is very helpful. This allows you to tip appropriately without needing to ask for change.
- Tip in Cash: Cash is always preferred for tips, as it ensures the gratuity goes directly to the service provider without delay.
- Tipping is Not Required: Although tipping is appreciated, it is not mandatory. You should never feel obligated to tip for subpar service.
- Be Discreet: In some situations, tipping discreetly is polite and appreciated. Handing over the tip directly or subtly leaving it in an accessible location is a respectful approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tipping expected in Marrakech?
While tipping is not compulsory, it is expected in many situations, especially in the service industry, as wages are often low.
How much should I tip in a restaurant?
A typical tip in a restaurant is 10-15% of the bill. Higher-end establishments may expect a 20% tip.
Do I need to tip for poor service?
No, tipping is optional, and you should only tip when you feel the service meets your standards.
Should I tip hotel staff?
Yes, it’s customary to tip hotel staff such as bellhops, housekeepers, and concierge staff. Around 10-20 MAD per service is a good standard.
Is it okay to tip in foreign currency?
It’s best to tip in Moroccan dirhams, as foreign currency can be difficult for locals to exchange or use.
Conclusion
Tipping in Marrakech is an appreciated way to recognize and reward the efforts of service providers in the tourism industry. From restaurant staff to tour guides, tips help supplement modest wages and support individuals working in entry-level positions. While tipping is optional and should reflect the quality of service, understanding the general expectations allows you to navigate Marrakech’s hospitality with confidence. By following these guidelines and respecting local customs, you’ll be well-prepared to make your stay in Marrakech enjoyable for both you and the locals who make your experience memorable.