Places We Don't Take Guests In Morocco (And Why)

Our Ethical Compass: Choosing Responsible Travel

At Original Travels, our commitment to responsible tourism means sometimes saying “no” to experiences that compromise our core values. In Morocco, this requires careful navigation of complex cultural, environmental, and social landscapes that defy simple categorization or superficial understanding. Morocco is a land of profound contradictions—where ancient traditions coexist with rapid modernization, where urban sophistication intersects with rural resilience, and where economic challenges spark remarkable entrepreneurial spirit.

Our ethical approach recognizes that responsible travel is not about passing judgment or reducing a rich, multifaceted culture to a set of simplified narratives. Instead, it demands a nuanced understanding that respects the intricate social dynamics of each destination. Morocco challenges travelers to look beyond surface-level experiences, to recognize the depth of human experience that exists beneath what might initially appear exotic or unfamiliar. Every “no” we say is a deliberate choice to protect the dignity of local communities, to prevent the commodification of culture, and to create travel experiences that are deeply respectful, meaningful, and transformative.

Experiences We Intentionally Navigate

Morocco presents unique challenges and opportunities for gender-sensitive travel. We recognize the complex social dynamics surrounding gender interactions, cultural norms, and traveler expectations. Our approach goes beyond simplistic assumptions, offering experiences that respect local cultural contexts while promoting mutual understanding and dignity.

Challenges We Address:

Travelers often encounter nuanced gender dynamics that require thoughtful, respectful navigation. We provide comprehensive guidance that:

Helps travelers understand local cultural norms
Protects the dignity of both travelers and local residents
Challenges stereotypical perceptions
Creates meaningful, respectful cross-cultural interactions

Our Ethical Framework:

We reject experiences that:

Objectify or exoticize gender relationships
Perpetuate harmful stereotypes
Create uncomfortable or inappropriate interactions
Misrepresent the complexity of Moroccan social structures

Positive Engagement Strategies:

Partnering with local women-led initiatives
Providing cultural sensitivity training
Creating opportunities for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue
Supporting economic empowerment programs
Respecting diverse cultural expressions of gender

Traveler Education:

Our approach goes beyond simple “dos and don’ts.” We offer:

In-depth cultural briefings
Contextual understanding of social dynamics
Guidance on respectful interactions
Opportunities for genuine cultural exchange
Challenging preconceived notions about gender in Moroccan society

Supporting Local Perspectives:

We prioritize experiences that:

Amplify local voices
Provide platform for authentic narratives
Challenge external misrepresentations
Promote mutual understanding
Respect individual agency and dignity

Our goal is to transform potential cultural misunderstandings into opportunities for profound human connection, recognizing that responsible travel is fundamentally about respect, empathy, and genuine curiosity.

Places We Don't Take Clients in Morocco (And Why)

Experiences We Categorically Decline

Our Ethical Compass: Choosing Responsible Travel

Our Decision-Making Framework

1. Monkey Performances in Marrakech

Why We Refuse:

Our Alternative Vision:

2. Unethical Carpet Cooperative “Experiences”

Red Flags We Avoid:

Our Responsible Approach:

3. Exploitative Desert Experiences

Experiences We Reject:

Our Commitment:

4. Unregulated Medina Photography Tours

Why We Say No:

Our Ethical Alternative:

5. Problematic Hammam Experiences

Experiences We Avoid:

Our Responsible Approach:

6. Orphanage and “Voluntourism” Experiences

Why We Decline:

Our Commitment:

7. Unethical Argan Oil Cooperatives