Q: What is included in the trip rate?

We’ve designed this to be an all-in experience. Your trip includes boutique lodging, nearly every meal, in-country transportation, gratuities to guides and drivers, all excursions, photography instruction, and pre-trip support. We even include a pre-departure Zoom call, a private website for travelers, and access to a trusted flight and insurance team. The only things not included are international airfare, some personal expenses, and travel insurance.

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco?

For most travelers, no visa is required. U.S. and most EU passport holders can enter Morocco without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. As always, we recommend checking with your country’s travel advisory or consulate for the most up-to-date entry requirements based on your nationality.

Q: Is Morocco safe to visit?

Yes — Morocco is widely regarded as the most stable and traveler-friendly country in North Africa. Our team has led trips here for over a decade, and we’ve carefully vetted every location, route, and partner. You’ll be accompanied at all times by our trusted local guide, Moulay Hassan, as well as your Open Sky tour leader and photography instructor. We prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the journey, and our pre-departure briefing will cover everything you need to know to feel confident and prepared.

Q: What is the weather like in November?

November is one of the best times to visit. Expect mild, comfortable temperatures — typically highs in the low 70s°F (20–22°C) and lows in the low 50s°F (10–12°C). Rain is unlikely, especially in the Sahara, and sandstorms are rare this time of year. It’s ideal for both travel and photography. We will discuss all of this, and more, in our pre-trip briefing as well as on the traveler website.

Question 1

Do I need to be an experienced photographer to join this trip?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. We welcome photographers of all levels — from beginners with a smartphone or point-and-shoot, to seasoned shooters looking to refine their vision. Whether you’re working on basic compositional or technical skills, or you know your camera well and simply need us to get you to the right place in the right light, we’ll meet you wherever you are on your photographic journey. Our photo instructors will tailor their guidance so you’ll feel  supported and inspired throughout the journey.

Question 2

I am an experienced photographer...will the beginners hold me back?

Accepted Answer

Not in the slightest. The group is intentionally capped at 12 participants, allowing for plenty of one-on-one instruction. Prior to the trip, we send out a questionnaire to understand everyone’s experience and goals. We’ve designed this journey to ensure that experienced photographers can pursue their creative edge — including ample time in beautiful light, varied scenes, and flexible pacing for your shots.

Question 3

Can a non-photographer join the trip?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many of our guests bring spouses, friends, or travel partners who don’t consider themselves photographers — and they end up having just as rich an experience. These journeys are crafted to be deeply engaging and visually stunning for anyone who loves culture, beauty, and discovery. While the photographers are immersed in capturing their shots, non-photographers often get the full attention of our expert local guide and enjoy exploring at their own pace.

Question 4

Is this a cultural tour or a photography workshop?

Accepted Answer

It’s a seamless blend of both. This journey is built on a thoughtfully created cultural itinerary, but with a photographer’s eye on everything — lighting, timing, and access. We may move more slowly in certain places, or add sites not typically included, or plan personal interactions you won’t find elsewhere. All of these are designed to be both culturally and photographically interesting. You’ll receive personalized instruction throughout, while also experiencing the rich textures of Moroccan life, from ancient medinas to desert nights under the stars.

Question 5

What kind of photography can I expect?

Accepted Answer

This trip offers an incredible mix: street photography in bustling souks, portraits in intimate home visits, wide-angle architectural compositions in ancient cities, landscapes in the Sahara, night photography under the stars, and more. It’s a visual playground. Holly will cover topics like composition, light, timing, storytelling, motion, and even light painting in the desert.

Question 6

What gear/lenses should I bring?

Accepted Answer

We will cover this in detail, both during the pre-trip briefing and on the the trip-specific website, however, we strongly suggest a medium-zoom in the range of 24-100mm (based on a full frame), as well as a fast wide-angle lens (<24mm) if you have interest in night sky or architectural photography. Some travelers also like to bring a prime lens in the 35-85mm range for portrait photography. Exact lenses are a matter of personal preference, but we will be happy to make suggestions and give guidance based on your gear and what you wish to accomplish on the tour.

Question 7

What is included in the trip rate?

Accepted Answer

We’ve designed this to be an all-in experience. Your trip includes boutique lodging, nearly every meal, in-country transportation, gratuities to guides and drivers, all excursions, photography instruction, and pre-trip support. We even include a pre-departure Zoom call, a private website for travelers, and access to a trusted flight and insurance team. The only things not included are international airfare, some personal expenses, and travel insurance.

Question 8

Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco?

Accepted Answer

For most travelers, no visa is required. U.S. and most EU passport holders can enter Morocco without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. As always, we recommend checking with your country’s travel advisory or consulate for the most up-to-date entry requirements based on your nationality.

Question 9

Is Morocco safe to visit?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Morocco is widely regarded as the most stable and traveler-friendly country in North Africa. Our team has led trips here for over a decade, and we’ve carefully vetted every location, route, and partner. You’ll be accompanied at all times by our trusted local guide, Moulay Hassan, as well as your Open Sky tour leader and photography instructor. We prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the journey, and our pre-departure briefing will cover everything you need to know to feel confident and prepared.

Question 10

What is the weather like in November?

Accepted Answer

November is one of the best times to visit. Expect mild, comfortable temperatures — typically highs in the low 70s°F (20–22°C) and lows in the low 50s°F (10–12°C). Rain is unlikely, especially in the Sahara, and sandstorms are rare this time of year. It’s ideal for both travel and photography. We will discuss all of this, and more, in our pre-trip briefing as well as on the traveler website.

Question 11

Have you run this trip before?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We’ve led this Morocco photo journey over a dozen times, continuously refining it. The itinerary is a polished result of years of feedback and firsthand experience. Our past travelers regularly tell us it was one of their most meaningful travel experiences — visually rich, logistically seamless, and emotionally memorable.

Question 12

How physically demanding is this trip?

Accepted Answer

You should be comfortable walking a few hours at a relaxed pace, sometimes over uneven surfaces like cobblestone alleys or desert sand (30-40mins…not hours). There are no long hikes or physically strenuous activities. If you can walk up to 2 miles a day with breaks you’ll be just fine. During the middle portion of the trip, we have some days where we spend comparatively lengthy periods in the vehicle, which some travelers find more tiring than walking.

Question 13

What modes of transportation are used?

Accepted Answer

We travel in a private, air-conditioned minibus and switch to 4x4s for about 24 hours during our Sahara adventure. You'll also enjoy a sunset camel ride into our private desert camp — a highlight of the trip. All logistics are handled for you, so you can focus on photography and enjoyment.

Question 14

What clothing/gear should I pack?

Accepted Answer

We’ll provide detailed packing guidance before departure, but comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a daypack are essentials, as well as your camera gear and associated bags/straps. The weather can vary between warm days and cool desert nights, so bring a fleece or light jacket.

Question 15

Can I extend my trip before or after?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We offer pre- and post-trip extensions to Casablanca/Chefchaouen and Essaouira — both stunning and highly photogenic cities. If you’d like something more custom, just let us know. We’d be happy to help you extend your stay or create a private add-on experience.

Question 16

What kind of traveler usually joins this trip?

Accepted Answer

Our travelers tend to be curious, culturally sensitive, and creatively inclined — often solo or partnered travelers with a deep love of photography, travel, and discovery. You don’t need to be a “group tour” person to enjoy this. Our small group size and supportive vibe create an easy camaraderie that feels more like traveling with friends.

Question 17

What is the maximum group size?

Accepted Answer

Our group will have a maximum of 12 travelers, along with three group leaders (guide, photo pro, tour manager).

Question 18

How do I book this trip?

Accepted Answer

Click here or use any of the booking buttons on this page to access and fill out the trip registration form. We'll swiftly reach out to you with a welcome message and details on how to pay an initial deposit to confirm your participation ($900 per person for this trip to Morocco).

Once your deposit is paid, we will invite you to the trip's private portal for registered travelers, with comprehensive pre-departure information we have prepared for this journey & including a pre-trip timeline. A personalized email will introduce you to and point you to the most relevant components worth knowing at the time.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@openskyexpeditions if you have any questions about the sign up!

MOROCCO

A photographic exploration of Morocco's timeless cities, deserts, and traditions.

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