Top things to do in Morocco

A short hop from Europe yet a world away in terms of culture and heritage, Morocco is a captivating taste of the exotic with a huge amount to see and do. Exploring kasbahs, souks, mountain valleys and ancient medinas unveils a treasure trove of beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, wonderful food and fabulous shopping. Everyone from rugged mountaineers to young families can enjoy Morocco’s charms. Luckily, there are great options at every budget. Here are our top ten things to do in Morocco to help you narrow down your favorites.

Marrakech

The bewitching city of Marrakech is rightly one of the most popular destinations in Morocco. It offers a compelling mixture of grand palaces, ornate mosques and a maze-like warren of souks. One thousand years of history seem to melt away in the medieval medina, and an evening spent in the circus of the Jemaa el Fna square beguiles visitors with timeless entertainment. Here, hawkers hawk, hustlers hustle, snake charmers work their magic, acrobats tumble, and storytellers captivate their audiences. This city has long been at the crossroads of North African trade where the Berber merchants would arrive from the Atlas mountains to barter with the people dwelling on the plains.

Fes

Donkeys laden with goods plod past in the twisting alleys of the best preserved medina in the Arab world where nothing much has changed over the centuries. Blank facades hide sumptuous riads, many of which now make characterful places to stay. Within the medina there are sections devoted to different handicrafts which are fun to stumble upon as well as many jewel like mosques. Follow your nose to the pungent tanneries where leather is still produced the traditional way. Don’t miss the artistry and serenity of the Medersa Bou Inania and the Kairaouine Mosque, two of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in this imperial city.

Essaouira

Under the Moroccan sun the harmonious palette and simple style of the coastal town of Essaouira is striking and alluring. Surfers love the swell in the bay, photographers can’t resist the picturesque boats bobbing in the harbor while shoppers enjoy the galleries and boutiques. A stroll on the beach, a bite to eat in a little café, and a moment watching the comings and goings in the port are the easy pleasures of this seaside town. Some are tempted by a camel ride, a tour of an Argan oil farm or a boat trip. The choice is yours.

 

Desert camp

Merzouga is the gateway to the Sahara and Morocco’s most impressive dunes at Erg Chebbi, towering to 150m high in places. A night in the Sahara desert camping with the Bedouin and star spotting far from light pollution is a fabulously evocative experience. However, if your itinerary doesn’t allow for a trip so far south, there are desert camps within striking distance of Marrakech. The experience of a night in the desert – wherever you go – will usually involve a traditional meal, music and perhaps stories. Of course, a night in a Bedouin tented camp complete with sweet mint tea and cushions for lounging is an unforgettable experience.

Atlas mountains

Rearing up to the south of Marrakech in all their magnificence, the Atlas Mountain range is one of Morocco’s most scenic and alluring regions with a distinct Berber culture. When the heat rises on the plains, the mountains offer cool respite and a blissfully rustic contrast to the urban melee of the cities. Hikers can pick from gentle strolls right through to summit-bagging multi-day treks, while mountain bikers and skiers (in midwinter) can enjoy the variety of gradients. For anyone not inclined to such levels of activity, there are plenty of beautiful places to stay with fabulous views, refreshing pools and lovely gardens to appreciate from your hammock.

Chefchaouen

The northern range of the Rif mountains is most famous for Chefchaouen, the Blue City. This is a sizeable town with a unique characteristic. Doors, window frames, walls, and steps are all painted in blues of differing intensities, making it a dream for photographers. Above all, it is a pleasant place to explore. Enjoy the clean mountain air, the mosque with a view, and the compact medina. Hikers have the option of numerous trails threading off into the hills, but waymarking is scant, so a guide is wise.

Hammam

Every town in Morocco has a hammam, large population centers have dozens. These communal bathing facilities have long been a hub of the community across Morocco. Strictly timetabled access means that bathing alternates between the sexes, so seek the advice of your local experts if you would like to pay a visit to ensure you go at the allocated time. Hammam experiences vary from simple and brisk to indulgent and relaxing. The general idea is to start in the hot room to sweat out any toxins, then wash away the sweat and any dead skin with water and an exfoliating glove, followed by a massage should you wish.

 

Moroccan cookery course

What could be a better souvenir of your holiday than a new skill? Start your day’s cookery workshop with a trip to the market with your cook-teacher who will talk you through some of Morocco’s important and unusual ingredients. Together you can select seasonal goodies for the day’s lessons before learning how to create some of Morocco’s iconic dishes such as tagine and couscous. You’ll learn about spice combinations, cooking techniques and regional specialties. Enjoy the flavors of your hard work at the end of the day.

Dades valley

If classic Moroccan scenery is something you’re keen to experience, a trip to the Dades Valley should be high on your list of must-sees. This valley has been a principal trading route through the mountains to the desert and beyond. Here, baked hills of red earth enclose a beautiful green valley floor planted with crops and date palms. Enjoy the sight of stunning earth colored villages scattered along the floor of the valley. Often, these are placed just at the point where the vegetation meets the bare rocky walls of the valley. At Todra Gorge, enchanting scenery takes a dramatic turn. This is where steep cliffs plunge down to a rushing stream at the base of the canyon.

Shopping

Morocco is an intrepid shopper’s delight. With perseverance and tenacity you can find and buy some wonderful locally made products. Keep an eye out for handmade crafts, clothing, accessories and just about anything else you can think of. You may find you need an extra case to fit all your treasures for the journey home. Souks are the most characterful and traditional places to shop. The bigger medinas such as Fez and Marrakech cover large areas and it can be hard to retrace your steps. So, if you find something you want and the price is right, buy it. Rugs, ceramics, spices, leather, woodwork and silver are good buys.

Make it happen

Morocco has great variety, so you can immerse yourself in nature, history, culture or coast – or a mixture. Contact our handpicked local experts and they will build you a bespoke itinerary based on your specific preferences.