travel morocco blog

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

The complete Eurail pass guide: What is eurail pass, how to…

What to eat in Taiwan? — 24+ most popular food to…

What to eat in Nha Trang? — 17+ best street food…

Visit Din Tai Fung Taipei Original (Din Tai Fung Xinyi) —…

The ultimate Iceland hiking guide: Everything you need to know. Best…

JR Rail Pass Guide. All things you need to know, how…

How to prepare for trekking in Nepal? — 10+ Nepal trekking…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Where to eat in Nha Trang? — 27+ budget, best places…

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives reviews. The detailed review of my vacation…

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa reviews. The resort is highly…

+7 luxury resorts you must stay in Danang, Vietnam

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Morocco travel blog — the fullest morocco travel guide for a budget trip for first-timers.

Morocco is an Islamic country located in the northwestern part of Africa, both the gateway to the Mediterranean Sea and the gateway to the Sahara desert, so this country possesses different types of terrains and diversity in climate, along with countless of extremely beautiful, impressive, spectacular landscapes. As part of the Arab world, Morocco also has many cultural traditions and a treasure of very unique Islamic art and architecture. That is why Morocco is always a favorite destination of many tourists around the world, and especially always on the “must-visit” list of any traveler. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Morocco for the first-time? Let’s check out our Morocco travel blog (Morocco blog, Morocco trip blog) with the fullest Morocco travel guide (Morocco guide, Morocco tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• What to buy in Morocco? — Top 17+ souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Morocco
• Taiwan itinerary 6 days — The itinerary of a trip to Taipei – Hualien – Kaohsiung for 6 days 5 nights
• Fes blog — The fullest (Fez) Fes travel guide for first-timers
• Morocco 7 days itinerary — How to spend 7 days in Morocco perfectly to visit: Fez, Chefchaouen & Tangier
• India itinerary 10 days — How to spend 10 days in India perfectly?

Morocco travel blog: Overview of Morocco

Geographically, Morocco is formed up of four different regions: The Sahara desert with its towns and Berber oasis (Siwa Oasis); the Atlas and Rif mountains; the plains were home to the royal cities of Strasbourgesh and Fez (Fes); and finally the sandy shores of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by small seaside towns and the cities of Rabat and Casablanca.

Morocco (Arabic name Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah, meaning “The Western Kingdom”) is a country located on the northwest coast of Africa, bordered by Algeria to the east and Western Saharah to the south. The whole country of Morocco is divided into 16 regions, with the capital of Rabat and the largest and most famous city of Casablanca.

Safety and security

Theft can happen in big cities and along beaches, where you should avoid deserted areas and stay alert at all times, especially after dark. Remember do not bring large amounts of money or valuables with you.

In big cities, in addition to petty theft, pickpockets and extorting money, I find the safety and security in Morocco not so bad. In crowded places, there are many policemen in uniform and plain clothes. In the old towns (Medina) always have crowded markets, it is necessary to pay attention to your belongings. You should leave the passport in the suitcase at the hotel, bring only a photocopy.

The southwestern border region which bordering Algeria and the southern territories of Western Sahara, especially near the border with Mauritania because of kidnapping and is advised by the authorities that visitors should not to come there due to the complicated security situation in these areas.

The US government has a website to notify the security situation (terrorism, natural disasters) of all countries in the world here .

The French government also has a similar site, access here .

The national religion of Morocco is Islam. Coming here, it is advisable to wear discreetly, limit open underarms and short skirts on streets to show respect for locals. If it’s too hot, you can bring a thin, long, large scarf to wear instead of a shirt with sleeves.

In Morocco, in large places of worship, men and women are not allowed to pray in the same area but must be separated, male on one side, female on the other. There are different entrances as well.

The Moroccans speak two main languages, Arabic and French, and in the mountainous areas, there also is a Berber language. All the signs, in addition to Arabic, they are also available in French, so you don’t have to worry about falling illiterate.

A few common words (transliteration):

• Where is the toilet: Fin kaynin toilettes?
• Hello: Salam
• Goodbye: Bslama
• Thank: Shokran
• Thank you (in Berber): Ten miêrt
• Agree, ok : Wakha
• Let’s go: Y-allah

The flag of Morocco flag is red, with a green five-pointed star, which is the symbol of the Kingdom of Morocco. Originally, the Moroccan flag was plain red, embodying the Alaouite dynasty, which ruled Morocco since 1631. In 1915, a green five-pointed star was added to distinguish it from the flags of other countries that also had red. Green is the color of hope and also the color of Islam. The star represents the 5 pillars of Islam:

• Fasting (Ramadan)
• Pilgrimage (to Mecca, Islam’s holy site)

Morocco blog: When to visit?

Due to its diversisty in geography, the best time to travel to Morocco depends largely on where you will going to, but overall, Morocco is a great year-round destination. With its long coastline, majestic mountains, and desert landscapes, it’s an incredibly diversity country in landscape that offers unique experiences to explore at any time of year. January is the wettest and coldest month and July and August are the hottest months, so you’ll see less touristy. Spring (March & April) and autumn (September & October) have the most pleasant weather.

In the Sahara region, cities in the plains, you should be avoided come in mid-summer. Desert climate is hot, dry and clear in the summer, but nighttime temperatures can plummet. However, the hottest months are ideal for visiting coastal cities like Essaouira and Rabat. The winter months in the mountains are very cold, which can be difficult to come as many hotels do not have heating system.

From October to May next year is the best time to visit Morocco. The autumn and spring’s weather is cool. Winters are not as cold as Southern Europe. The desert night is quite cold, so you still need to bring warm clothes. The Moroccan spring often comes a little earlier than in Europe. From mid to late February, plum and apricot blossoms bloom white on oases in the middle of desert. In late April, early May, roses bloom brilliantly in the valley of roses (Vallée dés Roses).

During Christmas and New Year, the whole Europe is on holiday, the streets will be a bit crowded and the price of services will be slightly higher. Because Morocco is Europe’s neighbor, the French and Germans like to go to their neighbor to relax, especially special holidays.

Morocco travel blog: Getting to Morocco

The simplest and most convenient way is flying to big cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Fes, Rabat… There are many low-cost airlines operating daily flights from European cities to Morocco and the flight time is also very reasonable (It takes average 3 – 4 hours of flying) such as Ryanair, Volotea, Easyjet… If you hunting hard, you can find cheap airfares for just a few dozen of Euros / round-trip. I often use Skyscanner , Google Flights to find tickets and then go directly to websites of airlines to buy.

Alternatively, you can also drive to Morocco from Europe via a transit ferry from the Spanish city of Tarifa to Tangier. Some ferry companies such as FRS, Inter Shipping regularly operate ferries that connecting these two cities with travel time of about 1 hour. See ferry routes and timetables here .

Morocco blog: Getting around Morocco and between cities

Morocco’s national railway company is ONCF. The railway network in Morocco is concentrated mainly in the north and cities along the west coast, connecting the major cities. Therefore, if you want to getting to cities in the South (such as Agadir), the bus is the most reasonable choice.

Train tickets can be purchased online through the company’s website at:( https://www.oncf.ma/fr/ ), via app ( iOS , Android ) or directly at ticket counters at train stations.

If you want a guarantee and rest assured, you can buy tickets 1 to 2 days in advance.

Like me, when I was in Marrakech, I checked the train schedules and prices in advance on the web, then went to the station 1 hour before departure and bought tickets directly at the ticket counter. This helped me more flexible and not be constrained by time.

A few things you should keep in mind are:

• The ticket counter will stop selling 3 minutes before departure time.
• In big cities like Marrakech or Casablanca have relatively high frequency of trips, on the contrary, smaller cities like Meknes have quite a few trips. So, if you stay in small cities, you should carefully check the departure time of train to arrange a reasonable travel time.
• On the train, you must always keep your belongings within sight, to avoid being “lost your luggage” when train stops at stations.

Example fares: Train from Casablanca – Marrakech : 95 MAD (10 USD); Bus supratours from Marrakech – Essaouira : 80 MAD (8.4 USD), Train from Fes – Meknes : 22 MAD (2.3 USD).

It is the most convenient means of transportation in Morocco. The bus network covers the whole country, so it is possible to reach places that train cannot. The major bus carriers are CTM ( http://www.ctm.ma/ ), Supratours ( http://www.supratours.ma/ ), SATAS and Trans Ghazala.

When traveling in Morocco, I chose the CTM bus company (because the company has frequently bus trips, and the service is also relatively good).

Riding by bus, I recommend you to book tickets 1 to 2 days in advance to be able to choose the most suitable trip in terms of both tickets and timetables. The reason is that if you buy tickets on the departure date, but unfortunately the bus trip you already choose is already full, you will be pushed to the next trip. In big cities, the waiting time between bus trips is not too long (about 1 hour), so take the next trip is still okay.

But, in contrast, in small cities (eg Chefchaouen) the frequency is reduced quite a lot and you have to wait for a long time to wait for the next bus, which can affect your expected schedule.

This is also a good option to getting around in Morocco, helping you to be more proactive in your time as well as being able to reach places that trains and buses cannot reach. However, self-driving in Morocco also requires you to be very steady and careful.

As far as I can see, the traffic here is a bit chaotic, especially in small cities (eg Chefchaouen): pedestrians cross the street anywhere; On the road, in addition to cars, there are also horse-drawn carriages, donkey carts, and horns are loud, in general, it feels quite similar to Vietnamese traffic.

Moreover, the terrain in the North of Morocco has many hills and passes, so self-driving is not for weak drivers.

Getting around in cities

Inside medina, motor vehicles are prohibited, you can only walk or donkey riding. The area of medina is not too large but complicated like a maze. So prepare a good pair of walking shoes.

In Moroccan cities, there are always people who are enthusiastic to show you the way to ask for money. If needed, let them guide directions for you and pay about 10-20 MAD (1-2 USD). If you feel uncomfortable, just say “No” clearly a few times. If they insist on following and walking ahead, pretending to give directions, I often take advantage of when they don’t notice and stop by a shop on the street. If they don’t see you anymore, they will leave away.

In order to limit being disturbed on the road, you should not hold a paper map in your hand with a blank face, a half-lidded gaze. Instead, you should download offline maps of MAPS.ME or Google Maps , plus compass apps to your phone for convenient navigating. In Marrakech and Fes, paper maps are also not very effective because in the souks, almost all streets have no numbers, streets without names.

Outside of medina, the most convenient way to travel are taxis. Taxi prices in Morocco are comparable to Vietnamese taxis. In Casablanca and occasionally in Marrakech, taxi is billed by meter. During rush hour, the drivers often refuse to turn on the meter, you should ask in advance to be sure and bargain the price before getting on the car.

There are two types of taxis operating in cities in Morocco: “grand taxi” – large taxi and “petit taxi” – small taxi.

Small taxi: 4-seater car, only allowed to run in the inner cities. According to regulations, this type of taxi can only carry a maximum of 3 passengers.

“Our group went with 4 people, even though we saw that the car still has an available seat and asked the driver to take all 4 of us, the driver disagreed and asked to divide into 2 groups to accept it”.

Large taxi: Usually a 7-seater taxi, this type can go out of town or traveling between neighboring cities.

In cities, to getting from city center to airport, you can only take this large taxi.

With most taxis, the price list is listed on the window of the car, however, you can still bargain with the driver to get the most reasonable price.

Casablanca also has a tram system, the way to buy tickets and travel is the same as in Europe.

Morocco travel blog: Where to go?

Marrakech (marrakesh).

There are few places where red is so overwhelming as in Marrakesh, from houses, walls, even the streets are painted pink or red. This North African city has a multi-dimensional, mysterious and captivating life.

It is the country’s fourth largest city, after Casablanca, Fes and Tangier. Marrakesh, located in the southwest, was once the capital of Morocco, playing an important role in the trans-Saharan trade route. The history of formation and development of Marrakesh has gone through many periods. Since the 13th century, Marrakesh is no longer the capital, but is still one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, an important commercial center. Marrakesh is also one of Morocco’s artistic cities, a national and international tourist destination.

Attractions in Marrakesh: Jemaa el Fna Square, Medina old town, Souks. Medina Old Town is a top tourist attraction in Marrakesh and is surrounded by 9km of high walls. Jemaa el Fna Square is a bustling place with all kinds of representations of the daily life of Moroccans, Ali Ben Youssef Medersa is the largest Koran school in North Africa, Bahia Palace, Souk Flea Market in the Medina is also a must-see place during your visit.

Chefchaouen

Also known as the Blue City of Morocco, Chefchaouen is located in the Rif Mountains in the northwestern Morocco. It’s a small city, a bit remote, but well worth a visit in the vibrant shades of turquoise of the houses, charming alleyways, a photogenic and perfect spot to take virtual living photos.

The city is built on a hill, so be prepared for a hike, when you get to the top it can feel like you just went for a hike. Walking is the best way to experience the city as there are many narrow streets that cannot be accessed by cars.

Sahara Desert tour

There are many Sahara desert tours that offered by tour operators in Morocco, with options ranging from camping, day trips, or night add-ons combined with other city tours. Camping in the Sahara Desert is a dream for any visitor, it’s definitely the ultimate nomadic experience. This is where you can experience walking on the sand dunes to watch the sunrise, camel riding, camping…

Known as Morocco’s cultural capital, Fes is a place you’ll definitely want to visit once. Ranked as the second largest city in Morocco, Fez served as the country’s capital until 1925. The city is known as the “Athens of Africa” ​​for preserving its diverse historical heritage. One of the heritages with the most vivid image of the Moroccan people is in the Fez markets (souks). Visit the Fes el Bali area to discover the unique cultural features, which was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1981.

Fes is located just over 300 miles from Marrakech which you can reach by car or plane. This UNESCO World Heritage city is one of the best-preserved ancient Arab cities in the world and the largest car-free urban area on earth.

The seaside city of Essaouira

Located on the coast of Morocco, Essaouira is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent kitesurfing conditions and beautiful beaches. If you stay in Marrakech, there is a bus that connects these two cities. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. Another option is to hire a taxi from Marrakech airport and a one-way trip will cost around $90.

Tangier is a northern Moroccan city with a population of over 2 million, located on the North African coast, to the west of the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, which borders the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans at Cape Spartel. This city has cultural features, architecture that mixed of France and Spain.

Surrounded by beautiful beaches, Tangier attracts visitors by its vibrancy that few places have. Visitors can move here by taxi after about 10 minutes from city center. My first impression of Tangier is the lively, bustling street and beautiful beaches just ten minutes away from the center. By the beach are markets, modern residential areas, frequented by tourists from all over the world with a wide variety of goods on sale.

In 1923, Tanger was called an international city under a treaty between nine countries with interests in Morocco: France, Italy, Spain, Great Britain, USA, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium and Portugal.

Meknes is one of the four most popular tourist destinations in Morocco. Before choosing Marrakesh as the next capital, Meknes served as the capital of Morocco from 1672 – 1727 under the rule of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Today, the city still retains the images that recreate the heroic history with the architectural style of Spain and Morocco. Especially the great gates with high walls. The impressive historical landmarks: Mosques, old markets and squares… Especially the old town (medina) in this city is also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and the largest port in Africa. Casablanca is known to many people through the movie of the same name, but it is not the filming location of this movie. With the diversity in culture from Portuguese, French and Moors, make the city is more dynamic and full of vibrant.

The city of Ouarzazate is known as “The Door of the Desert” because of its location on the edge of Sahara Desert. This place is a “quiet” land of palm trees, sandy roads and buildings bearing the image of fortresses. In particular, Ouarzazate also owns two largest film studios in the world, Atlas Studios and CLA Studios. Moreover, there are many movies using the setting here, so this city is also known as the “Hollywood of Africa”. When coming to this city, the following attractive tourist attractions will surely attract you: First is Sahara desert, Todra gorge – a great natural wonder or visit Taourirt Kasbah, which is an important histrical fortified residence complex of Morocco.

The city is now the capital of Morocco and was established in the 12th century. Rabat impresses with its diverse landscape of flowers, plants and trees. In addition, monumental works must be mentioned gates such as the Great Gate of the Kasbah (Bab Oudaya) and The Gate of Ambassadors.

Some notable attractions in Rabat: Mamora forest, beautiful beaches, mosques, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, ancient city (medina), Royal square, Chellah medieval fortified, … Not only that, tourists can visit the National Craft Museum or stop at the street cafes while wandering in Rabat.

The town of Asilah or Arzeila is located in the northwest region on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. It is located in the northern Atlantic Bay and is 31km from the city of Tangier. The town has a pretty good depiction of Moroccan culture, including murals.

Morocco travel blog: Where to stay?

Room rates in Morocco are much cheaper than in Europe. The price for a double room, included breakfast, from 30 USD (guesthouse), 50 – 60 USD (2-star hotel or hostel), with more than 100 USD you can stay in a 4-star hotel.

To find top rated and best hotels in cities in Morocco you can go to Booking.com , Agoda.com . If you want a budget stay let choose Airbnb , and use this link https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185 , to register for an Airbnb account and book a room, you will get a discount up to $55 for the first booking.

The main attractions are located in medina (old town in city), you should rent a room here for convenience. But also should not be too far from the motorway in case you have bulky luggage, to avoid spend much effort. For example, in Marrakech, you should rent a room near Jemaa el-Fna square, in Casablanca, you should rent near United Nations Square or Casa-Port Railway Station (note that in Casablanca there are 2 big stations that are quite far apart), in Fes, you should rent in Talaa Sghira street or Talaa Kebira street (the beginning of this street near Bab Boujloud).

In the old town, there are usually few big hotels. Instead, there are Dar or Riad which are traditional Moroccan homestays. Riad is usually built in square-shaped, with a skylight and a small garden in the middle, creating a quiet and pleasant atmosphere. You should stay there once, I’m sure you will like it.

Morocco blog: How to buy and choose desert tour?

Coming to Morocco, riding a camel in the sunset or sunrise in the Sahara desert is an experience not to be missed. In the medina in Fes and Marrakech there are many tour operators offering tours to the desert, but in reality there is only one company that organizes it. Tour operators only distribute as travel agents, so there is no need to book online in advance, so just directly go to their offices to bargain and choose the cheapest one to buy.

Check out the tour schedule here: https://www.igomorocco.com/

There are different types of tours to desert: 2 days to Zagora (Ouarzazate); 3 days to Erg Chebbi (near Merzouga) or 4 days to both places. I found the 3-day tour to Erg Chebbi is the most suitable and reasonable. The 2-day tour to the Zagora does not see the beautiful shimmering sand dunes as shown on Instagram, while the 4-day tour is a combination of the two tours above, you will have to waiting for the car for a long time in Ouarzazate.

The distance from Merzouga to Marrakech and Fes is about the same. If your itinerary includes both of these cities, you can request tour operator pick up in Marrakech, drop off in Fes or vice versa.

If riding a camel, you should wear long pants, not lace or jean pants that are too tight or hard (my own painful experience). Overnight in the desert, you have to sleeping in a Berber tent which is very cold, need to bring extra warm clothes. In addition, you should bring more toilet paper – “paper attached to the intestines”, haha!

Morocco travel blog: What to eat?

Moroccan food is delicious and rich. Traditional restaurants often have tajin, couscous, pastilla or lamb or beef stews. In souks (traditional markets), there are many kinds of savory, delectable grilled meat, skewers. Morocco is a Muslim country, so people don’t eat pork.

Breakfast in riads has many types of breads, cornmeal pancakes, with jams, honey, butter, mint tea, and delicious freshly orange juice.

The Moroccan pastries are also delicious (but very sweet). Some pastry is as small as a thumb, goes well with mint tea.

During the two weeks of eating and drinking all over Morocco, I always remember of eating fresh fish and seafood in Essaouira. If you have the opportunity to visit, do not forget to try.

B’ssara (Moroccan fava bean soup)

B’ssara is a soup made with simple ingredients using beans, olive oil and local flavor cumin. This is a traditional Moroccan dish often used in daily meals. It can be used in breakfast to start a new day and served with bread. The price for this dish is quite cheap, a bowl costs only a few cents.

You can’t leave Morocco without trying tagine! This is a stewed soup that is considered a Moroccan’s culinary cultural symbol with its very own taste. Its ingredients include mea, poultry, or fish, vegetables, spices, nuts, all are stewed in a clay pot. It’s available everywhere that you can find easily in this country from high-end restaurants to eateries, roadside food stalls.

Goat Cheese

Goat cheese comes in a lot of Moroccan recipes and is amazing. If you are a lover of goat cheese then you will especially love this in Morocco.

Morocco is home to a wide variety of olives. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of olive oil, so it’s the perfect place to sample all kinds of olives.

Almonds are the basis ingredient of many of the delicious things here, especially the orange blossom flavored almond milk and Moroccan spiced almonds.

Kefta tagine

Kefta tagine is the name of a dish made from minced beef or lamb mixed with ingredients and spices such as coriander, garlic, and cinnamon. Then it will be rounded into balls and cooked in tomato and onion sauce under skillful hands of chefs. The final step to perfect the dish make it greasy, a few eggs will be added into the pot.

You must definitely enjoy delicious dishes made from lamb, the most famous of which is Méchoui. Previously it was a traditional dish used in wedding parties, later it was mentioned as one of the famous street foods in Morocco. To make this dish, people use a whole lamb, marinate with herbs and spices and then spit-roasted on charcoal.

Akouda is a cake made from mashed potatoes combined with aromatic spices. This dish is deep-fried until golden crispy and eaten hot. It can be dipped with tomato sauce, served with salad or sandwiched with bread are all very delicious, this dish is popular in northern Morocco and in old towns (medina).

This is a traditional dish associated with Moroccan culture and religion. On the Friday after the weekly prayer, if you travel to Morocco, you will find this dish on all Moroccan family tables. Couscous is stewed from vegetables such as zucchini, pumpkin, eggplant, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, green beans, chicken and beef. Especially served with Leben – a traditional fermented milk.

Chermoula fish

Bordered by Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean with a long coastline, Moroccan cuisine is rich with a lot of dishes made from a multitude of different types of fish. Chermoula is one of them with an irresistible delicious taste. The dish with a combination of herbs, spices and fish is grilled over charcoal with the highlight of a special sauce.

Deep-fried Moroccan doughnuts

Import from French, a pastry lover’s dream. They are similar to fried donuts and you will find them all over the country.

Moroccan sweets, pastries

You’ll find shops full of sweets, and it’s easy to sample a variety. You can grab some bread and baklava or almond briouats and almost anything dipped in orange blossom water.

Moroccan smoothie made with avocado fresh fruits such as bananas, apples, kiwi, eggs, milk, and candies or nuts, is a must-try sweet treat of Moroccan cuisine.

Morocco travel blog: What to buy?

Morocco is one of the countries with many specialties. Tourists come here often buy:

• Rug: If you know that Iran has a famous Persian rugs, Morocco is also known as a rug paradise. The most prominent is the unique Berber wool rugs. One useful tip to not buy the wrong type of fake rug is to ask the seller to burn the tassels to try. If it’s real wool, it won’t catch fire, while fakes will catch fire and burn.
• Pottery (the most beautiful in Fes): You can come across all styles and ceramic products that Moroccans still use every day such as vases, cooking utensils, dishes, mosaics, ashtrays… The ceramics in Fes and Safi are best, the two main ceramics production sites of this country, they have a unique Moroccan style.
• Leather goods (in Fes, Essaouira or Marrakech). Head to Marrakesh and Fez to shop for these items, bags and leather products. Here sells a variety of products with vary prices, types and quality for you to choose from. In other cities of Morocco you can also buy these products but it is a bit smelly.
• Spices: Moroccan spices are very popular with tourists to buy as gifts after their trip. Locals sell spices in souks in every city. The most special is Ras el Hanout, which is a spice named after “head of the shop”. The reason it is called that is because the owner of the shop will mix this spices for you. Usually it consists of cumin seeds, cinnamon powder, ginger powder, clove pepper powder and some other spices.
• Herbal, dried rose, dried fruit (Marrakech or Essaouira have the most).
• Argan Oil (in Essaouira): The rarest gift that can only be found in Morocco is argan oil. Because the only place on earth where argan trees grow is near Essaouira. However, it is because of its scarcity that many people fake it to sell at a high price. When buying this oil, you should note that you should refer to a reputable place to buy and from locals to avoid being scammed.
• Decorative lamps and jewelry (in Marrakech)
• Fresh fruit, pomegranate, orange, and cactus are delicious.

Goods in Fes are a bit more expensive than in Marrakech, but much better. The souk near Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fna square sells a lot of Chinese goods, making it difficult to distinguish the real from the fake items. Shopping in souks in Morocco, you always remember to bargain, starting from 1/3 to 1/2 off the asking price. It’s also a pleasure of going to a market, isn’t it?

Sometimes, you can meet people nearby invite you buy weed, you should be careful because Morocco has many policemen in plain clothes hidden in the crowd.

Morocco blog: Traveling cost

• Hotel: $50 – 60 / 1 night (double room in 2-star riad for 2 people)
• Food: $10 – 20 / 1 meal at delicious restaurants, with a nice view

I budgeted $80 – 90 / 1 person / 1 day (excluding airfare) and found it very Okay. If your budget is slightly lower, the total cost will be in the range of $60 – 70 / 1 day for all: meals, transportation, sightseeing (excluding airfare).

Picture below is the courtyard of La Table du Palais. One of the nicest restaurants I’ve been to. 150 DHs for the main course, 220 DHs for the main course and 1 side dish, 250 DHs for the whole appetizer, main course and dessert. If you just want to sit and rest for a while, don’t want to eat, you can order a glass of orange juice or mint tea, very affordable.

Morocco blog: Suggested Morocco travel itinerary

Over 2 weeks of traveling in this beautiful North African country has helped me gain some experience to be able to arrange a reasonable exploration itinerary.

Here are 2 itineraries that I think are quite reasonable for those who want to once set foot in Morocco:

• Itinerary 1: Marrakech (day 1 & 2) – Ouarzazate (day 3) – Merzouga (day 4) – Fès (day 5) – Chefchaouen (day 6) – Fès (day 7).
• Itinerary 2 (long time): Marrakech (day 1) – Essaouira (day 2) – Marrakech (day 3) – Ouarzazate (day 4) – Merzouga (day 5) – Fès (day 6 & 7) – Chefchaouen (day) 9) – Fès (10th) – Merknès (11th) – Rabat (12th) – Casablanca (13th) – Marrakech (14th).

In addition, if you have more time, you can also add to the itinerary of other tourist cities of Morocco such as Agadir, Tangier. Or, if you are an adventurer, you can also book High Atlas trekking tours departing from Marrakech, visit Berber villages (Imlil, Asni, Ourika, …) and admire the wonderful valleys beauty of this mountains.

These tours are very diverse in terms of places to visit as well as the number of days to go to which help you freely choose, and of course it is also sold a lot at agents in Marrakech.

We had another Morocco trip itinerary for 7 days here: Morocco 7 days itinerary — How to spend 7 days in Morocco perfectly to visit: Fez, Chefchaouen & Tangier .

Morocco travel blog: Some notes before you go

• Money exchange: The exchange rate in the airport is often not as good as outside, you should only exchange a little at the airport and then go to the city center to continue exchange. In Marrakech, on Prince Moulay Rachid street near Jemaa el-Fna square there are many banks.
• Major cities have ATMs, but don’t expect much because the machines are often broken.
• Plugs: Most plugs in Morocco are type C and type E. Standard voltage is 220 V and standard frequency is 50 Hz. An adapter will be the best for most electronic devices. Internet: Although you’ll find that most cafes, restaurants, and hotels in the city have Wi-Fi handy (and cheap!) for 4G while you’re traveling in Morocco. You can buy a Maroc Telecom SIM card for just 40 dirhams (just over $4) and get 10GB of data for 100 dirhams ($10).
• What to wear? Choose light, appropriate clothing. Be sure to always cover your shoulders and knees like using scarves and maxi skirts. They are ideal for warm sunny conditions and that shows respect for the culture – which in turn will get you treated with respect.
• Do not take pictures without permission in Morocco. They will respond as soon as you press the button. Many people here, and especially the elderly, think that if they are photographed, their images will be used for bad purposes. They are quite negative because of the influence on religion and spirituality. Usually people in tourist cities and young people will be more open, but you should ask before taking photos.
• Long pants should be worn when riding a camel, it is not denim or lace fabric and too tight will make you uncomfortable when sitting for more than 1 hour on a back of a camel. In addition, sleeping in a tent in the desert should wear enough warm clothes. Besides, it is necessary to prepare necessary personal belongings and drinking water, but it must be compact and hygienic.
• Do not go alone at night when traveling to Morocco, you need a trusted person to accompany you. Even if you are a muscular man, you should not go at night, especially in the desert, in a remote place. Another reason is because Moroccan roads are not always convenient and well-lit, so you should keep this in mind when traveling.
• Public toilets in Morocco are chargeable, except for hotels and restaurants. At some places, there is no collection, but there are still people standing to remind you not to forget to put tips in a box after use.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Morocco you can refer to

• 2D1N Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech
• Ourika Valley Day Tour from Marrakech
• Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
• Agadir Day Trip From Marrakech
• Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech
• Marrakech City Tour
• Quad Biking Experience in Marrakech

Are you looking for more top things to do in Morocco: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And here .

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

The complete eurail pass guide: what is eurail pass, how to use & what countries does eurail pass cover, visit din tai fung taipei original (din tai fung xinyi) — tasting the best dimsum at the best dimsum restaurant in the world, the ultimate iceland hiking guide: everything you need to know. best hiking routes & useful tips, jr rail pass guide. all things you need to know, how to buy, how to use along with japan rail pass faqs.

Where to go & what to do in Varanasi? — 15+ places to visit & best things to do in Varanasi

What to buy in Indonesia? — Top +9 famous gifts, souvenirs & best things to buy in Indonesia

What to buy in Kyoto? — 31+ must-buy Kyoto souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Kyoto

What to buy in India? — 29+ best gifts from India & best things to buy in India

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous & best things to buy in Korea

Editor picks.

The complete Eurail pass guide: What is eurail pass, how to...

What to eat in Taiwan? — 24+ most popular food to...

What to eat in Nha Trang? — 17+ best street food...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous &...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1465
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Food + Drink 213
• Thailand 209
• Coasts + Islands 193
• Vietnam 170
• South Korea 168
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Morocco Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Chaotic. Colorful. Eye-opening. Visiting Morocco is an intense experience. My time there was challenging, but it was also a reminder that the best part of travel is embracing the uncomfortable.

Once part of the Carthaginian Empire, the first independent Moroccan state emerged around 225 BCE as the Berber kingdom of Mauretania. That kingdom eventually became a Roman province, though, by the 7th century CE, Muslim conquest of North Africa was in full swing. A French Protectorate from 1912-1956, Morocco gained its independence in 1956 and has been an independent state ever since.

I loved my time in Morocco. I gorged on couscous, drank my body weight in mint tea, hiked, and absorbed the hectic sights and sounds of the country.

From the high Atlas Mountains to the desert to the coasts, Morocco is a marvelous country that mesmerizes. True, the sprawling and disorderly medinas can test your patience, but they reward your senses each and every visit.

Use this Morocco travel guide to plan your trip, see the best the country has to offer, save money, and avoid the common pitfalls that waylay unsuspecting travelers!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Morocco

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in morocco.

1. Explore Marrakesh

Spend some time in the Djemaa el-Fna, where you can find exotic street performers, tattoo artists, musicians, and chefs. After that, wander around the medina, explore the souks, eat in the market, see the old city, and enjoy Morocco’s most international city. Marrakesh has it all.

2. Sleep in the Sahara Desert

The Sahara is vast, empty, and spectacular. Spending the night in a simple tent on the dunes was my favorite activity while in the country and I highly recommend you try it too. The stars go on forever and there’s no light pollution to block them out. (Skip the camel ride, though!)

3. Explore the blue streets of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a small city located in the middle of the Rif Mountains. It is very relaxed, offers reasonable accommodations, and is visually stunning as the streets and buildings are all painted a vibrant sky blue (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram). It’s a great place to wander, shop, and sip mint tea.

4. Visit Fez

This old and powerful city is one of the best places in the country. Its narrow streets are filled with wonderful aromas, mosques, craft shops, and crowds upon crowds of people. Though Fez can be a bit overwhelming, once you get used to the pace of the city, it’s simply magical.

5. Relax in a traditional hammam

A hammam is a steam bath popular in North Africa. They are usually found near mosques or toiletry shops and can be upscale or public (traditional). Visit a no-frills traditional bath for an authentic and enlightening experience. Public hammams cost about 10 MAD, while hotel hammams cost 300-500 MAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Morocco

1. get lost in the medinas.

The medinas are the historic hearts of each city in Morocco, part residential area, part shopping center, part food market. Shops, restaurants, markets, and homes all line the twisting and turning streets in buildings seemingly too close together and too old to stay up much longer. As someone who loves to get lost, the medinas were heaven. Word of caution: The Fez Medina is a bit unsafe, so do not go too far off the beaten path. Stick to streets with lots of people or hire a guide to show you around.

2. Trek the High Atlas

The rugged and beautiful Atlas Mountains stretch over 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles), from the West Coast of Morocco all the way to Tunisia. This mountain range is home to Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s tallest peak at 13,671 feet. You can hike all year round, but the best time is from April to May. The Toubkal Circuit (7 days) and M’Goun Traverse (3 days) are some of the more popular treks.

3. Trek through the Todra Gorge

Located near Tinerhir in the High Atlas Mountains, this gorge is one of the most recognized in the world and has become very popular with travelers looking to hike the canyon. It’s a challenging hike and takes around 4 hours but if you’re looking for something truly different and outdoorsy in Morocco, don’t miss out on this. For an even more unique experience, skip the day trip and stay overnight in the nearby village of Ait Baha.

4. Visit the Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque, located in Casablanca, is a huge mosque with a minaret that stands 60 stories. It’s the second-largest mosque in Africa and the seventh-largest in the world. The walls are made of marble and the roof is retractable (the minaret also has a laser that points to Mecca at night). It took thousands of Moroccan artists a total of five years to build this detailed architectural masterpiece. Its mosaics, plaster moldings, marble and stone columns and floors, and wood ceilings are utterly impressive. It is big enough for 105,000 worshipers! Combined entry to the mosque and museum is 140 MAD.

5. Learn to cook traditional Moroccan food

Traditional Moroccan food is a blend of Berber, Arabic, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and French cuisine. Many hotels and guesthouses offer cooking classes in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez. You can buy fresh produce from the local market and then make a traditional dish. Café Clock offers some of the best classes. With locations in Marrakesh, Chefchaouen, and Fez, this Western-influenced café is famous for its gigantic and delicious camel burger (which tastes a lot like spicy shawarma).

6. Wander thru Kasbah les Oudaias

Located in Rabat, this 12th-century Kasbah is found in the oldest part of the city. The citadel, with its narrow streets of white houses, and a great place to wander around and take some pictures. Its elevation offers beautiful views of the river and ocean.

7. Go surfing

Morocco is extremely popular among surfers. The best time to go is during the winter months when the waves are bigger and more consistent, and the air and water temperature is mild. Head to Taghazout, the most popular surf town, to catch some of the best surf in the country. A week-long stay at a surf camp, including lessons, equipment, accommodation, and airport transfer costs around 5,000 MAD.

8. Visit Tangier

This major city in northern Morocco is located on the North African coast at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. The city’s location means that many civilizations and cultures have left their mark on Tangiers since at least the 10th century BCE. From 1924-1956, Tangier was an international zone separate from Morocco, and thus became a destination for many European and American diplomats, businessmen, writers, and spies during this time. Don’t miss the Grand Mosque, the Kasbah, and strolling down the beach promenade.

9. See Atlas Studios

Named for its proximity to the Atlas Mountains, Atlas Film Studios in the city of Ouarzazate is the largest film studio in the world, covering more than 322,000 sq ft of the desert. Many big films have been shot here including: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Hanna (2011), and part of the TV series Game of Thrones . Be sure to visit the nearby Ksar of Aït Benhaddou kasbah too! It plays into what people think a ksar (fortified village) should look like. I enjoyed roaming the streets and climbing to the top for the view.

10. See the Ancient City of Volubilis

A major trading center and the southernmost settlement during Roman times, Volubilis is one of the best-preserved (and least frequented) such ruins in the world. It originally dates to the 3rd century BCE and became the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mauretania, growing even more during Roman rule. I found it empty of tourists, not built up, and open in a way that lets you see the structures up close without being behind ten feet of barriers and jostled by crowds. Most of the city is still unexcavated so the site has a very “Indiana Jones” feel to it. I’ve been to a lot of Roman ruins in my travels, but this one is my favorite. Admission is 70 MAD.

11. Enjoy the Meknes Medina

Pleasantly stroll the Medina in Meknes without being pestered. Located in Central Morocco, this authentic market sells handicrafts made in Meknes such as embroidery and Meknes “Damascene” ironwork. If the Medinas of Fez and Marrakesh overwhelm you, this is the place to go.

12. Explore Essaouira

Essaouira is located a few hours from Marrakesh on the Atlantic coast and is a popular beach destination for tourists, especially Brits. I loved the relaxed atmosphere of the city, the lack of pushy touts, the sea air, and all the fresh fish. Be sure to visit the wonderful fish market in town, where all the small fishermen sell their day’s catch. Afterward, check out the small fish stalls nearby in the main square where you can enjoy fresh, grilled seafood for cheap.

  For more information on specific destinations in Morocco, check out these guides:

• Fez Travel Guide
• Marrakesh Travel Guide

Morocco Travel Costs

Accommodation – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost between 80-110 MAD per night in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez, and about 50-60 MAD in smaller places. Private rooms in hostels cost around 260-380 MAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotels in Marrakesh and Fez cost around 270-410 MAD per night for a double room. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, free breakfast, and sometimes even an outdoor pool.

Wild camping is legal in Morocco for those traveling with a tent. Locals usually don’t like people camping on or near their property, however, so only take advantage of this if you’re not going to disturb anyone. Don’t be surprised if nomads or police stop by to check on you.

Food – Moroccan cuisine is a colorful, flavorful mix of Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean traditions with a pinch of French and sub-Saharan cuisine to round things out. It is a land of spices, so expect flavorful meals at every turn (the traditional ras el hanout spice mix is composed of 27 different spices). Beef, goat, and lamb are some of the most common meats, usually eaten with couscous. Fish like mackerel and anchovy are also quite common, owing to the country’s location on the coast. Be sure to try pastilla , a pastry filled with meat or seafood.

Eating in Morocco can be extremely cheap, especially if you eat at the many markets. A pot of mint tea costs between 8-10 MAD. Indulge in local food, including the popular tagine , a meat and vegetables dish for about 35-55 MAD. Sandwiches, pizza, and most other dishes range between 30-50 MAD.

A fish dish in coastal cities like Essaouira costs about 100-150 MAD while a lobster is about 350-400 MAD. Seafood dinners come with drinks, salad, and bread.

For more touristy or Western restaurants, expect to spend at least 150 MAD or more per main dish.

Beer and wine cost around 70 MAD for a drink (however, there aren’t that many opportunities to drink in Morocco, so I wouldn’t factor it much into your budget).

There’s no need to buy groceries here as the food is cheap and it’s far easier to eat out! But if you do, expect to pay 200 MAD per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Morocco Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget expect to spend around 285 MAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating at market stalls and cooking some meals, limiting your drinking (which is very easy to do here), using local transportation to get around, and sticking to free and cheap activities like free walking tours and public hammam visits.

On a mid-range budget of 525 MAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, take the train between cities, and do more paid tours and activities like museum visits and camping in the Sahara.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,120 MAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy a few drinks, fly between cities or hire a driver, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MAD.

Morocco Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t cost a lot of money to travel Morocco — though it’s also easy to splash out here if you want. Here are my tips for saving money in Morocco:

• Eat from street stalls – It’s extremely easy to eat cheaply in Morocco. While restaurant meals typically cost as little as 30 MAD, street food is even cheaper. For just a few dollars, you can indulge in delicious kebabs, sausages, barbecued corn on the cob, roasted chicken, huge sandwiches, and more. Stick to eating at the local markets in the medina to spend very little money on food.
• Negotiate your cab fare – Be sure to negotiate a price before you get into the taxi. There aren’t set prices and you need to bargain hard. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for price estimates so you don’t get ripped off.
• Avoid faux guides – Faux guides (or false guides) linger in the medinas and offer you tour services. Be forceful in saying no while walking away. They are persistent but eventually give up if you keep walking.
• Be careful of thieves – Petty theft, mostly involving wallets, watches, and cameras, is prevalent in the crowded medinas around the country. Stay alert and keep your valuables out of sight.
• Avoid drinking – Even though drinking is frowned upon in the country, you can still find plenty of places that allow you to drink. They are overpriced (since alcohol is not common here) and the drinks aren’t that good. Avoid drinking during your visit, save money, and align yourself closer to local norms.
• Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Staying with a local is the best way to get a feel for the country and learn some insider tips in the process.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink but you should bring a reusable water bottle with a filter just in case. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Morocco

Looking for a place to rest your head in Morocco? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Morocco for your next visit:

• Riad Dia (Marrakesh)
• Riad Jennah Rouge (Marrakesh)
• Kasbah Red Castle Hostel (Marrakesh)
• Funky Fes (Fez)
• Aline Hostel (Chefchaouen)
• The Chill Art (Essaouira)
• Atlantic Hostel (Essaouira)
• Baytalice (Tangiers)

How to Get Around Morocco

Public transportation – Public transportation can be hit or miss in Morocco. The bigger cities, like Marrakesh and Casablanca, have public bus services, but the buses are old and overcrowded and the routes are hard to figure out.

Instead, most people use petits taxis to get around town. These are small vehicles that can hold up to three people and are prevalent all over the country. They’re very cheap, although there may be a surcharge after 8pm. To ensure you get a fair fare, negotiate your price upfront.

Metered taxis are also available in bigger cities like Marrakesh. Fares start around 7 MAD and then they charge 4 MAD per kilometer.

Grand taxis – Grand taxis are shared taxis that can carry up to six passengers and are used to go longer distances between neighboring towns/cities. They won’t leave until the taxi is full but generally wait times aren’t so bad. You can locate one near just about any taxi stand or bus/train station. If you have a lot of luggage, you may have to pay extra. You should arrange your fare ahead of time.

Bus – Intercity buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around Morocco, especially compared to other methods of transportation. The four most popular operators are:

• SATAS (regional)
• Ghazala (regional)

CTM and Supratours are the most reliable and have comfortable buses with air conditioning. You can book your tickets online or simply show up at the bus station. The websites aren’t terribly reliable or efficient to use. A 4-hour bus ride from Marrakesh to Casablanca is about 75-110 MAD, while a 6.5-hour ride from Marrakesh to Tangier is 260-275 MAD. Casablanca to Fez is 95-120 MAD.

Train – Morocco’s national rail network is operated by ONCF and services some of the country’s major cities like Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, and Fez. The trains are comfortable and they’re usually on time, but disruptions do occasionally happen. There is now a high-speed rail running between Casablanca to Fez too. You can look up schedules and prices on ONCF .

The 2.5-hour train trip from Marrakesh to Casablanca costs about 50 MAD, while the 4.5-hour journey from Marrakesh to Rabat starts around 150-180 MAD. Traveling from Casablanca to Fez takes 4 hours and is 50-120 MAD. The journey from Fez to Marrakesh takes 6.5 hours and costs 195 MAD.

Flying – Royal Air Maroc is the main domestic airline, and they sometimes have good sales. An hour flight from Marrakesh to Casablanca starts at around 870 MAD, while a one-hour flight from Marrakesh to Fez starts at 520 MAD.

Car rental – Car rental isn’t typically recommended in Morocco. Drivers are aggressive and accident rates are high! But if you want to venture off the beaten path, it’s a good way to go. You can find rentals starting from 200 MAD per day (sometimes cheaper).

When to Go to Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is during the country’s shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to November. The temperatures are nice and warm during this time and there is less tourist traffic. (However, this changes if you plan on spending most of your time surfing the coast or hiking the Atlas Mountains.)

Summer lasts from June to August, and it can be ridiculously hot all over the country during this time — especially the further south you go (including in Marrakesh and Fez). A lot of people head to the coast to enjoy places like Tangier, Rabat, and Essaouira. Expect highs above 35°C (95°F).

Winters (December-February) are mild, but it can get quite cold in the evenings. Temperatures drop as low as -3°C (27°F) in Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains receive heavy snowfall. Winters in the north and along the coast are very wet. Overall, it’s not a great time to be here.

The best time to go hiking in the Atlas Mountains is from April to May (spring) and September to October (fall). It’s mild during these months and there’s little risk of severe weather. Summer is the best time to enjoy the coast, where temperatures go as high as 27°C (80°F) but the ocean breeze offers plenty of relief.

How to Stay Safe in Morocco

Overall, Morocco is a safe destination but traveling here requires vigilance. You’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger in Morocco, but the petty crime and harassment require you to stay on guard — more so than in other countries.

Women traveling alone attract a lot of attention here and the chances of being followed and possibly groped are high. This is a particular problem in crowded medinas. Always be watchful and trust your gut. Do not bring valuables with you and keep your belongings tight to your body. Dress conservatively and avoid wearing a lot of jewelry.

Walking alone at night is generally not a good idea in the cities. If you’re unsure about an area, ask the hotel staff which areas are safe. If you need a taxi, always arrange the price in advance to avoid getting ripped off.

When out and about, locals might invite you into their shops or offer to guide you around. Always politely but firmly decline otherwise you might end up getting ripped off.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 19 for assistance (112 for mobile phones).

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Morocco, check out this post that answers frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Morocco Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Morocco Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Morocco and continue planning your trip:

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

Is Morocco Safe? 11 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Morocco Travel Blogs

These are all of my morocco travel blogs.

From exploring buzzy Marrakech, to sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert, and road tripping through the Atlas Mountains, find out the best places to travel to in Morocco here, in my Morocco travel blogs.

Happy exploring!

A Quick Marrakech Itinerary – Quirky Places To Visit In Marrakech

Planning a trip to Morocco’s red city? Create your own Marrakech itinerary with these quirky places in the city! 

Whether you’ve got your flights booked, or you’re looking for inspiration, planning a trip to Marrakech is always a fun thing to do! The city offers so much. From the bustling market stalls in the medina, to the beautiful YSL gardens. 

For lots of tips on where to visit on a first trip, check out my guide to the top places to visit in Marrakech .  Once you’ve added those to your Marrakech itinerary, it’s time to spice things up with a few quirky spots you might not have considered before. 

From a super cool party spot, to a beautiful place to stay and a great cooking school, you’ll struggle to choose what to do next!

Marrakech’s Top Spring Hangout: Buddha-Bar Marrakech

Warm sunshine, refreshing cocktails, delicious Asian tapas, all set to the chilled beats of ethereal house music. It’s official – spring has sprung in one of my favourite cities, Marrakech !

High season has arrived, bringing with it tourists from near and far. After hours exploring the incredible sights and sounds of the medina, Jemaa el-Fna Square and taking in the colour and culture of the city, the chic new terrace at Buddha-Bar is the perfect place to unwind.

Thankfully the cocktails are a LOT better than the ones I made with expert barman Houssam in January ! Top new creation Tikech is a subtle blend of Pink coral flower, coconut water, passion fruit and pineapple – one sip of that and you’ll know not only that spring is here, but that summer isn’t far away either.

Sushi Masterclass Experience at Buddha-Bar Marrakech

Testing out my sushi making skills at Buddha-Bar Marrakech.

They say it takes years of training to become a sushi master. I had only a few hours, but I was determined not to make a fool of myself. The setting? Buddha-Bar Marrakech – the city’s hottest new bar and restaurant.

My Buddha-Bar experience started here, with a delicious dinner of Asian fusion dishes. After enjoying it so much, I was invited back the following day to don an apron, and spend some time learning from the masters. It wasn’t just about sushi, I also had the chance to test out my pastry skills too!

Check out the video of my luxury weekend in Marrakech and scroll down to read all about it!

I love the buzz of a professional kitchen. Considering the high level of stress, I’m always amazed at how tidy they are. Between 4-7pm, the stark white polished kitchens of Buddha-Bar were a hive of activity, with sushi rice being prepped, ice cream being churned and pastry being baked. Piles of sliced spring onion and strips of avocado lay ready to be rolled into sushi, while across the room the deep fat fryer was crisping up some spring rolls. The air was rich with the scent of ginger, garlic and chilli, and several sous-chefs were busy on prep duty. It’s easy to lose sight of how much labour goes into creating one gourmet dish, but as I stood there, I appreciated the previous night’s meal even more.

Shake it, Shake it! New Mixology Festival launches at Buddha-Bar Marrakech

Fancy shaking up some cocktails at a brand new mixology festival?

Forget New York, Marrakech is my new favourite city that never sleeps. From its international film festival every December to Marrakech Bienniale (it successful arts festival) in the spring, there’s plenty going on.

As I wrote in this blog , Buddha-Bar Marrakech was a great find in January. Serving some of the best Asian-inspired food I’d ever eaten, and with a top team of mixologists, I ate and drank my way merrily through the weekend! Good news, to add to Marrakech’s constant stream of events and festivals, Buddha-Bar are launching a Mixology & Cocktail Festival.

REVIEW: Fairmont Royal Palm, Marrakech, Morocco

Thinking of visiting Marrakech? Read my review of the Fairmont Royal Palm Hotel , and plan a luxurious trip to Morocco’s incredible city! 

Morocco Travel Guide

Stunning interior gardens, courtyards, and delicious tajines, spanning from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara.

Best time to visit Morocco

Rent a car in morocco, best places to visit in morocco, sahara morocco: visit the merzouga desert on a 3-day tour, 9 best things to do in chefchaouen, morocco, 11 things to do in fes, morocco (complete guide), map of morocco, weather in morocco.

Morocco's weather is primarily dry year round, with mild winters, and intensely hot summers. Springtime, from March to May, is the most beautiful time to visit as landscapes bloom. September to November are also very pleasant months, ideal for exploring.

Destinations in Morocco

Things to do in marrakech, morocco: a 3-day guide, how to rent a car in morocco, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Morocco via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Morocco worth visiting?

Morocco is an incredibly stunning and diverse country, full of wonder. Home to the Sahara desert, the Atlas Mountains, stunning architecture, lively medinas, calming hammams, bustling souks, and tranquil gardens, it’s a destination that’ll overload your senses but captivating to explore. 

Is Morocco cheap to visit?

Enjoy this Moroccan charm without breaking the bank! While there are some very luxurious hotels and experiences in Morocco, it tends to be a very affordable travel destination; with tempting stalls selling delicious food for $5 and quaint riads starting at $20 a night, there are options for everyone.

Can I drink tap water in Morocco?

While most locals will drink tap water, it’s recommended to avoid it as a traveler. Stay hydrated by using a reusable water bottle with a filter system, or purchase a large bottle that you can refill from during your trip.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Morocco?

Good news! Most travelers can explore Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Check your country’s specific entry requirements before your trip, and when entering the country, make sure to get your passport stamped on arrival.

What language do they speak in Morocco?

Moroccan Arabic is the native language of Morocco, amongst other languages, depending on the area. Virtually all Moroccans will be able to speak French, and in the main tourist areas, English is also widely spoken, so you should have no problems getting by. 

Do I need travel insurance for Morocco?

While traveling around beautiful Morocco, unforeseen circumstances may arise, like lost belongings and medical emergencies. Having travel insurance will keep you protected on the go and ensure peace of mind.

Is Morocco safe?

Morocco is a safe country to travel to, with friendly locals keen to chat. Petty crime does exist, so it’s always a good idea to exercise caution, leave valuables out of sight, avoid back alleys, and make sure not to walk alone at night. However, for the most part, Morocco is a beautiful place to explore worry-free!

What power plug type does Morocco have?

The standard plug used in Morocco is the two round pin plugs, known as plug type C and E. Make sure to bring your adapters or purchase one at the airport to keep connected during your trip.

Why do people love Morocco?

Morocco is loved for its incredibly diverse experiences and sensory delights. One moment, you can be experiencing sunrise on a camel in the Sahara Desert , the next enjoying a delicious tagine on a rooftop in Marrakesh, or wandering the blue streets of Chefchaouen. Morocco has it all!

Travel in Morocco 

A mesmerizing land of diversity, Morocco guarantees to enlighten all your senses. From majestic mountains, serene beaches, and quaint gardens to bustling medinas, camel riding in the desert, and tea with Berbers, a vacation in Morocco promises to be full of surprises.

How to plan your trip to Morocco

Use our Morocco travel guides to create the ultimate adventure! Whether you’re planning a weekend break to Marrakech , keen to get lost in the ‘Blue Pearl’ city of Chefchaouen , or looking for a breathtaking Sahara desert experience, our guides have you covered with all you need to plan the perfect Morocco holiday . 

Backpacking around the country? 10 days in Morocco gives you a great amount of time to experience the best places in Morocco . 

Best time to visit Morocco 

Heading on vacation to Morocco ? Before your trip, it’s essential to pick the best season to explore this bustling destination!

Spring and Autumn (March – May, September – October): The best time to visit Morocco is in Spring and Autumn, between March and May and September and October. This period brings warm temperatures between 20°C – 30°C and sunny skies, making travel throughout the country very pleasant. Spring is also when the landscape starts to bloom, making it incredibly beautiful! 

Winter (November – February): Morocco rarely sees any rain, so while winters are colder, they’re still dry and great for exploring cities, ranging between 16°C and 21°C. The months of November and February can be amazing times to visit; tourist hotspots are quieter, and the temperature is still warm, with only a light jacket needed for your trip. While the rest of Morocco remains relatively mild, if you’re looking for snowy adventures, head to the Atlas Mountains, where you’ll have the opportunity to go skiing and snowboarding. 

Summer (July and August): July and August are the height of the summer and the hottest months of the year. We’d recommend avoiding these months as the heat can become extremely unpleasant in the cities. The coast can be a little more bearable, so this may be the best time to visit Morocco if you’re planning on a relaxing beach vacation. 

Other than the summer months, which may be too hot for most, Morocco’s weather is typically beautiful and sunny year-round, perfect for exploring or even doing some snowy activities! 

Coastlines and beaches in Morocco

Morocco might not be the first place that pops to mind when you think of sun, sea, and sand, but with nearly 2,000 km worth of coastline, Morocco has some incredible and unique beaches to explore. 

One of the most laid-back coastal towns is Essaouira, a vibrant fishing port and medina, home to a long stretch of golden sand perfect for watersports. For a more unique experience, head to Legzira Beach, home to natural piercing red rock arches — a mesmerizing sight to behold. If you’re looking for the best places in Morocco to surf, the relaxed fishing village of Taghazout is home to amazing waves, with Devil’s Rock Beach becoming a hot spot for surfers worldwide. 

From sunbathing on the Mediterranean sand to surfing the chilly Atlantic waves, there’s something for everyone, offering a calming escape from the hustle and bustle of Morocco’s lively cities. 

Food, culture, and religion in Morocco

From the divine aromas of Moroccan cuisine to the calming calls of prayer and the vibrant colors of the medinas, Morocco is a place where food, culture, and religion beautifully intertwine, creating a uniquely immersive experience. 

Food: The heart of Moroccan culture lies in its cuisine, bursting with aromatic flavors and spices. Delicious dishes like tagines, couscous, and m’hanncha take you on a journey with your taste buds filled with different spices, unique to whoever created them. Tea also plays a huge part in Moroccan life, taking great care of every step of the brewing and pouring process. This tradition gestures hospitality and friendship, sharing alluring stories along the way. 

Culture: Moroccan culture is also vivid in its intricately designed architecture and artwork, with palaces covered in elaborate styles and souks showcasing craftsmanship through woodwork, textiles, and ceramics; each piece of art tells a story. 

Religion: Religion plays a significant role in Moroccan life, with most of the population following Islam. As you travel Morocco , you’ll see and hear this influence through the magnificent mosques and soothing calls to prayer, the daily routines of locals, and their customs.

Why you should travel to Morocco

Morocco is a wonderfully chaotic yet beautifully quiet country. Journey through the bustling medinas of Fes and Marrakech to the tranquil Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. The diverse experiences Morocco has to offer promise unforgettable memories. 

There’s something for everyone in Morocco. For the backpacker looking to immerse their senses, the labyrinthine streets and souks will have you in awe, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life. For those looking to unwind on their Morocco holiday , the numerous exquisitely designed riads will offer you your own tranquil paradise away from the hustle and bustle. Alternatively, choose the Agafay and the Sahara Desert , with their awe-inspiring landscapes, for epic, adventurous activities and clear, starry nights. 

The unique experiences, incredible landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm locals of Morocco are truly something special. 

Safety and travel advice Morocco

Traveling Morocco, a tantalizingly mysterious country in Africa, can be a challenging yet rewarding place to visit. Taking necessary precautions will help you get the most out of your trip. 

Crime and safety in Morocco: Crime rates are relatively low, but like many tourist destinations, scam artists, overly persistent vendors, and pickpocketers can be expected in popular tourist areas. When visiting busy cities like Marrakech and Fes , you’ll find many touts trying to sell you things or unlicensed tour guides offering to show you where to go for “no money”, but then demanding payment once they’ve taken you there. In this case, simply provide a polite ‘no’ and walk away. It’s always a good idea to exercise caution, leaving valuables out of sight, and at night, making sure not to walk alone. 

Solo female travelers: While Morocco is relatively safe to travel as a solo female, it’s always safer to travel with someone else if you can do so, particularly if you’re not an experienced traveler. As a Muslim country, it’s worth respecting local customs by dressing modestly (consider wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers your knees and shoulders to avoid unwanted attention). Also, refrain from walking alone, especially at night and within quieter areas. 

Natural Disasters: Although natural disasters occur infrequently, Morocco is in an earthquake zone. Typically, earthquakes are minor and will go unnoticed, but there are cases of more significant incidents, with the last happening in September 2023. While this shouldn’t put you off visiting, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake and stay informed during your trip by registering with your embassy. 

Driving in Morocco: Renting a car in Morocco allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Traffic in the major cities can be challenging, whereas driving in the countryside is extremely quiet, and most main roads are generally well maintained. Don’t be afraid of using the car horn, as it’s seen as a form of communication. Additionally, never leave your passport with the rental company while you hire the vehicle, and always keep your documents close to you, as there are many police checkpoints.

Travel Insurance: Don’t forget travel insurance for your vacation in Morocco! This will cover you for unexpected incidents such as medical emergencies, flight delays, and theft, ensuring you have a worry-free trip. Find the best travel insurance for you .

Travel to Morocco: Complete Guide

Travel to morocco: essentials, before you go:.

• How to Prepare for a Trip to Morocco
• Morocco Outfit Inspirations
• What to Wear in Morocco: Packing List

General Tips for Visiting Morocco

• 2 Weeks in Morocco Itinerary & Best Places to Visit
• Renting a Car in Morocco: Everything You Need to Know
• What to Buy in Morocco: Moroccan Souvenirs
• How to Spend a Weekend in Marrakesh
• Tips for Visiting Marrakesh Before You Go
• Hotels vs Riads: Where to Stay in Marrakesh
• What to Eat in Marrakesh

Other Regions:

• Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl: Everything You Need to Know
• Merzouga vs Zagora: How to Choose the Right Desert Trip

If the link doesn’t work it’s because I’m still writing that particular article. Check back again soon.

And if you want to see more subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly travel videos!

FAQ ABOUT TRAVELING TO MOROCCO

• Is Morocco expensive to visit?

Morocco can be an affordable place to visit for sure. Depends on what are you looking for you choose a budget. I visit Morocco twice – once on a backpacker budget for 5 days, another time on a mid-budget for 2 weeks. I spent approximately $250 during my first visit, including an overnight desert trip (that actually sucked the most money out of my budget) and plenty of souvenirs like leather goods, nuts, and spices.

• Is Morocco safe to visit?

Morocco isn’t a place free of crime. There are plenty of petty crimes such as pickpocketers and you could get robbed in a dark alley of the medina at night. Therefore, you need to take necessary precautions and use your common sense when visiting Morocco.

That said, I’m one of a few travel bloggers who disagree with the majority saying that Morocco isn’t safe to visit alone. I think Morocco is totally fine for anyone, even a solo female traveler. You just need to learn very quickly not to look or smile at vendors or peddlers and say “no” when they ask you to come in.

It’s totally all right to walk around on your own, and I was never physically or verbally harassed. Especially if you avoid flashy jewelry, skimpy branded clothes and watch out for scams. Morocco is greater than the minor irritations and after my two trips I’ll be definitely coming back again!

Notify me of new posts by email.

Friday 25th of November 2022

Can I visit Marrakesh in January first week? Will the weather be okay?

Anna Karsten

Wednesday 30th of November 2022

Absolutely!

Lahcen oulfakir

Sunday 18th of July 2021

Hello, I am Lahcen from Morocco, I really like your article and very happy that you enjoyed your Moroccan experience. We really hope that covid ends soon and back to the normal life and people travel again and meet new people. Thank you so much for the great page about Morocco and welcome to your second country.

Peter Giddings

Saturday 23rd of January 2021

We are planning a trip to Morocco in September, 2021 and thought 9-10 days would allow us to get a good feel for the country. Would travel to Tangiers then Casablanca then to Fez be a good trip to taken in the culture and historic sites.

Monday 25th of January 2021

You'll definitely enjoy it!

Marta Kipar

Wednesday 24th of July 2019

Hi there dear Anna, Thanks for sharing interesting Morocco travel ideas in your own perspective. We are a couple, but never been out of the country and planning a trip to Morocco for about a week-long on our vacation holiday. Heard that it is possible to catch some of the most amazing highlights of the country within a week. But what are the best things to do?. Is that a safe country to travel?. Is there any easy way to get some of the most highlights of the country for couple travelers?. How about planning to reach there in late August until early September?. Is that a good month to travel?.

Thursday 11th of July 2019

My husband and I are planning to go on a week trip to Morocco this October 2019 i.e; (Casablanca-Marrakech-Fes-Chefchaouen).

We are skipping the desert tours/camel riding/hiking. We prefer to do the sightseeing & shopping instead.

May I ask, in your opinion, is it recommended to get a full guided tour throughout the 7days6nights stay in Morocco?

Or is it advisable to rent a car and drive throughout the trip?

Thanks in advance!

It really depends on your travel style. I've never had a guide with me 24/7, neither did my friends who went to Morocco. On my second trip I rented a car and was fine, but it's not a must - you could use trains and buses as well.

Morocco Travel Guide (2023)

This is the ultimate Morocco travel guide for 2023, covering everything there is to know about visiting this beautiful country. I designed this page to be a complete resource for trip planning, outlining general things to know about Morocco, the top places to visit, bucket list experiences, how to get around, and a whole lot more.

The Best Morocco Travel Guide

After living here for six months and exploring nearly every corner of this beautiful country, I’m super excited to share what I’ve learned in this Morocco travel guide. From the things I wish I knew before traveling to essential safety information, I’ve packed it all in here for easy access.

Keep reading to discover all there is to know with this complete Morocco travel guide!

Main Things to Know About Morocco

> Language: The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Berber(also called Amazigh). However, the most common language spoken in Morocco is Darija, or Moroccan Arabic, which is a combination of Arabic, Amazigh, French, and Spanish. Moroccan people are some of the most talented with languages I’ve come across on my world travels. Many people speak French, Spanish, and English in addition to Darija, especially in touristy areas. > Currency: The currency used in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). The exchange rate is about 10 dirhams to $1 U.S. Dollar. Outside of major cities, most places in Morocco only accept cash. You can withdraw dirhams from local ATMs or exchange in just about every city. Many places will also accept euros and sometimes US dollars. > Religion: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, with Islam being the official religion. The practice of religion is an important part of Moroccan culture and daily life, with many mosques and religious sites throughout the country. You’ll hear the Call to Prayer five times a day, and at this time, many small shop owners will close to go to the mosque. > Safety: In my experience, Morocco is quite a safe country, especially as a woman. There are some common scams to look out for and a bit of catcalling, but aside from that, the people are some of the nicest I’ve met anywhere in the world. > Clothing: Morocco is a fairly conservative country, and it’s important to dress appropriately, especially if you’re a woman. Women should dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting clothing is ideal for staying cool in Morocco’s hot weather, so think maxi dresses, flowy pants, and short sleeve jumpsuits. Though definitely pack layers because it gets cold at night. If you’re visiting Morocco during the winter, it’s pretty chilly, especially up north and in the desert.

Top Places to Visit in Morocco

Morocco is a country full of vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and stunning landscapes. Here are the top 8 places to visit in Morocco on any trip.

1. Marrakech : Known as the “Red City”, Marrakech is definitely the most iconic place to visit in Morocco. Home to beautiful palaces, gardens, and mosques, there are secrets hiding behind every ornate door. Take a stroll through the bustling souks, shop for spices and souvenirs, and indulge in some traditional Moroccan cuisine.

2. Fes : This ancient city has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the famous leather tanneries. Be sure to explore the maze-like streets of the medina (there are more than 4,000 of them!) and catch a sunset from the Marinid Tombs.

3. Chefchaouen : This picturesque blue city is nestled in the Rif Mountains and is the perfect place to escape the heat. There are many things to do in Chefchaouen , like take a hike to the Spanish Mosque for breathtaking views of the city or cool off by the Ras El Ma River. With more time, a day trip to Akchour is a must.

Read More: Chefchaouen Travel Guide

4. Casablanca : Known for its stunning architecture and beautiful beaches, Casablanca is the main business hub of Morocco. Though, there’s still plenty of culture to enjoy. Don’t forget to check out the famous Hassan II Mosque and Marché Central for the catch of the day.

5. Tangier : This port city has a rich history of being a gateway between Europe and Africa. Explore the Kasbah Museum, relax on the stunning beaches, and drink mint tea on one of the countless rooftops in the medina. On a clear day, you can see Spain across the water!

6. Merzouga : This small town is the entrance to the Sahara Desert in Morocco. Experience a camel trek through the dunes and spend the night sleeping in a tent under the stars. Merzouga is also a top place for adventure activities like quad biking and dune buggies.

7. Essaouira : This charming coastal town is known for its enchanting beaches and relaxed atmosphere. In terms of things to do in Essaouira , you have a fair share of options. Take a stroll through the historic medina, hang out on the beach, chow down on some fresh seafood, and listen to live Gnaoua music.

Read More: Essaouira Travel Guide

8. Ait Ben Haddou: This fortified city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been used as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows, including “Game of Thrones”. Explore the winding streets and marvel at the stunning architecture, which dates back to the 17th century. It’s a great day trip from Marrakech or a stop on the way to Merzouga.

Best Time to Visit Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is during the spring (mid-March to May) or the fall (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months can be extremely hot, especially in the desert regions, and the winter months can be chilly, especially in the Atlas and Rif Mountains. It’s also important to note that Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, can affect travel plans as many businesses and restaurants have altered schedules.

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco in the summer, consider coastal destinations like Essaouira, Casablanca, and Tangier, with a day trip to Chefchaouen and Akchour for swimming.

Visiting Morocco in the winter? This is a prime time to take a Merzouga road trip and camp in the desert. Winter is also a great time to visit places like Marrakech and Fes.

Read my complete guide on the best time to visit Morocco for seasonal and monthly breakdowns, plus when to visit based on the kind of trip you’re looking for.

How to Get Around Morocco

There are several options for getting around Morocco, depending on your budget and level of comfort. This Morocco travel guide covers the most common methods.

Taxis are readily available in most cities, but be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. For local trips, ask that the meter is turned on. Taxi drivers in Morocco are notoriously tricky (especially in Marrakech and Fes), so keep your eye out for any funny business.

You can also take large shared taxis to get between some cities in Morocco, like Tangier and Chefchaouen. This is a great option for budget travel because you split the fare with the other passengers and only pay for your seat (there are six seats in total). Most Morocco travel guide neglect to mention this option, but it’s truly the best way to travel around Morocco.

There’s generally a central big taxi station in the city run by an operator in a neon vest. Find him and let him know where you’d like to go, and he’ll take you to the taxi departing next.

This method of travel is my favorite and one of the top ways to experience a super local side of Morocco.

But be warned: you may end up waiting quite a while if no one else is going to the same destination. If this happens, you can always pay for the open seats to leave immediately.

Buses are the cheapest option to travel around Morocco. The main company is CTM , but you can also sometimes book buses called Autocars through ONCF.

Buses can be crowded and loud, but in my experience, they’re super comfortable. They’re also the best option to travel in Morocco with a lot of luggage since there’s limited space in taxis, and train storage can be cumbersome to deal with.

Trains are a great option for longer journeys, with comfortable seating and air conditioning. The main company is ONCF, and you can book tickets in advance through their website or at the train station.

Honestly, second class is just as good as first class, so if you’re torn between the two, save your money. That said, you can see what first class looks like on most Moroccan trains below.

In 2018, Morocco opened a fast train called the Al Boraq (or the TGV) that travels between Casablanca and Tangier in only two hours.

Private Car

For more flexibility, consider renting a private car to take a road trip, especially if you want to visit the desert.

Car rentals are normally around 400 dirhams ($40) for a single day, with as low as 200 dirhams ($20) daily rate for longer rentals.

However, Moroccan driving is pretty lawless, and the roads can be treacherous in some places. If this is a concern, you can always rent a private car with a driver, though this will be much more expensive.

Morocco Accommodation

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Morocco, from budget hostels to luxurious riads.

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard, often converted into a hotel or guesthouse. For a unique experience, consider staying in a riad in the medina for a taste of local life. Riads often include rooftops with gorgeous views and traditional breakfast offerings.

There are riads that cater to all budgets throughout Morocco, as well as hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels.

Camping is also an option in some places, particularly in the Sahara Desert.

Moroccan Food and Drink

What’s any Morocco travel guide without a food section? Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its flavorful spices and exotic ingredients. It’s unbelievably delicious, with large portions, hearty side dishes, and satisfying meals. There are lots of healthy choices and vegetarian options when it comes to Moroccan food, making it a fairly easy country to enjoy food-wise if you have dietary restrictions.

Main dishes to try are:

• Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. The dish is named after the conical earthenware pot in which it is cooked.
• Couscous: A staple dish made with small steamed balls of semolina grains, typically served with vegetables and meat. It’s traditionally eaten every Friday.
• Harrira: A traditional soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices. It’s often served as a meal during Ramadan.
• Zaalouk: A salad made with cooked eggplants and tomatoes, seasoned with garlic, cumin, and paprika. It’s typically served as a side dish and is super yummy.
• Mint tea: A popular drink in Morocco made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and lots of sugar. It’s often served as a sign of hospitality.

Moroccan pastries are also a quintessential part of the country’s cuisine and any Morocco travel guide. These sweet treats are often made with almonds, honey, and other delicious ingredients.

One of the most popular Moroccan pastries is the “kaab el ghazal,” which translates to “gazelle’s ankles.” This pastry is made with a flaky crust and filled with a sweet almond paste.

Another popular pastry is the “chebakia,” which is made by frying dough that has been coated in honey and sesame seeds (my personal favorites).

These pastries are often enjoyed during special occasions such as weddings or religious celebrations. Don’t leave Morocco without trying some of these delicious treats!

Morocco Bucket List

Morocco is full of unique, captivating, and bucket list experiences. From riding camels in the desert to surfing on the coast, this Morocco travel guide only covers a fraction of the adventures in store. To get you started, here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Morocco.

• Indulge at a traditional Moroccan hammam
• Explore the ancient medina of Fes
• Take a camel trek through the Sahara Desert
• Visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
• Shop for souvenirs in the souks of Marrakech
• Hike in the Rif Mountains
• Kite surf in Essaouira
• Visit the blue city of Chefchaouen
• Marvel at the Roman ruins of Volubilis
• Visit the coastal town of Asilah
• Take a traditional cooking class
• Go on a road trip along the Dades Valley
• Take a dip in the Akchour waterfalls
• Ride a quad bike through the desert dunes
• Visit the Aït Benhaddou kasbah and learn about its history
• Learn about the Berber culture
• Listen to live Gnaoa music performance
• Explore a desert oasis
• Visit the Ouarzazate film studios
• Go skiing in Ifrane
• Drink mint tea on a rooftop or in a city square
• Eat a traditional Moroccan breakfast
• Try Moroccan pastries
• Learn about the Jewish history in Morocco
• Go on a glamping trip in the desert
• Take a road trip along the Atlantic coast
• Go on a multi-day horse tour
• Take a day trip to stunning Moulay Idriss Zerhoun
• Explore Tetouan and its Andalusian architecture
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains

What to Know Before Going to Morocco

Like most countries, there are a few key things to know before going to Morocco to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Pack in a backpack instead of a roller bag if possible because medinas can be crowded, with steep hills, many stairs and no car access.
• Dress appropriately, especially if you’re a woman. Morocco is a conservative country, and it’s important to respect the local culture. For women, this means dressing modestly and covering your shoulders and knees.
• Carry cash with you, as many places don’t accept credit cards.
• Since Morocco is an Islamic country, the Call to Prayer happens five times a day. The first one happens before sunrise, and the last one happens just after dark.
• Avoid displays of public affection, which are frowned upon.
• Alcohol is not widely available in Morocco due to the Muslim religion. However, there are bars in some cities like Marrakech and Tangier. There are also some restaurants in larger cities that serve alcohol. You can also buy booze at some large grocery stores.
• Avoid drinking tap water, and opt for bottled water instead to avoid getting sick.
• Watch out for common scams, which I get into below.

Common Scams in Morocco

Morocco is generally a safe country, but like any tourist destination, there are some scams to watch out for. I figured I’d throw them into this Morocco travel guide so you know exactly what to look out for.

These are a few of the most common:

Faux Guides : These are people who pose as official guides and offer to show you around the city. They may be friendly at first, but they will often take you to overpriced shops or try to pressure you into buying things you don’t need.

To avoid this scam, only hire official guides through your hotel or a reputable travel agency. You can also ask for recommendations from other travelers or locals. If someone approaches you as a tour guide, ask for their official badge.

Overpriced Souvenirs: In the markets (known as souks), vendors will often try to sell you items at a much higher price than they’re worth. They may also use high-pressure tactics to get you to buy more than you need.

To avoid this scam, always negotiate the price before buying anything. Start by offering about half of what the vendor is asking, and be prepared to walk away if the price doesn’t come down.

“It’s Closed”: In some cities in Morocco, especially Fes, you may be walking in the medina, and someone will tell you, “it’s closed,” and try to steer you somewhere else. After falling for this scam dozens of times, I finally realized they were lying… every. single. time.

Pickpocketing: Pickpocketing is fairly common in Morocco, especially in crowded areas like markets, large squares, and train stations. Thieves may work in groups to distract you while they steal your wallet or phone.

To avoid pickpocketing, keep your valuables close to your body and be aware of your surroundings. Wear a money belt or keep your wallet in a front pocket rather than a back pocket. You should also avoid pulling out large sums of money at once when paying for things.

Fake Transportation: In major tourist destinations like Marrakech, you may encounter people offering transportation to nearby destinations. These may be scams, and you could end up paying a lot of money for a subpar experience.

To avoid this scam, only get in official (clearly marked) taxis and book tours and longer transportation through your hotel or a reputable travel agency. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or read reviews online before making a booking. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

How to Stay Safe in Morocco

While Morocco is pretty safe, it’s still important to take precautions. These are a few final tips for this Morocco travel guide to help you stay safe:

• Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATM machines, and avoid withdrawing large sums of money at once.
• Don’t walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Medinas can be particularly hard to navigate after dark, so be sure to have clear landmarks.
• Keep all valuables out of sight in your room, and locked if possible.
• It’s best to leave the flashy jewelry at home.
• When paying for something, don’t pull out all of your cash at once. Otherwise, you may become a target quickly.
• Like with any international trip, always carry your passport safely with you.

With these few things in mind, you’ll have a stress free trip to Morocco

Morocco Travel Guide FAQs

How many days is enough for morocco.

The number of days that you need to see Morocco is between 7 and 10 days. This will give you enough time to see a couple of cities and take a quick road trip to the desert. In two weeks, you can experience the mountainous inland of Morocco and its ancient medians, as well as the stunning Atlantic coast.

Do I need a visa for Morocco?

Morocco has a 90 day visa waiver for many countries, including the USA, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. Just ensure you have a valid passport with at least one blank page. And keep in mind that the visa is for 90 days not three months.

Is Morocco friendly to tourists?

Overall, Morocco is a very friendly country to tourists. There is a lot of accommodation, abundant tour guides, and ample transportation options that allow anyone to travel Morocco with ease. You may come across petty crime while in Morocco, like pickpocketing and tourist scams, but there are no real major safety concerns for tourists. The people in Morocco are also well known for being friendly and hospitable to visitors.

What is the best month to visit Morocco?

The best month to visit Morocco is June to enjoy the Atlantic coast and northern destinations like Tangier and Chefchaouen. If you’d prefer a trip to cities like Fes, Marrakech, and Merzouga, the best month to visit is September, when it’s warm but no longer scorching in the south.

Where should I go for the first time in Morocco?

For your first time in Morocco, visit iconic cities like Fes and Marrakech, with a road trip to the desert. It’s also worth leaving room in your itinerary to visit smaller, equally enchanting destinations like Essaouira, and cities in the north of Morocco, like Chefchaouen, Tangier, and Asilah. The south and north of Morocco are drastically different, so if possible, try to experience both areas to get a full picture of this beautiful country.

Is Morocco cheap for tourists?

By western standards, Morocco is definitely cheap for tourists. It’s a super budget friendly destination with lots of inexpensive accommodation, attractions, shopping, and food. Morocco is also the land of luxury, with plenty of upscale hotels and experiences. It’s easy to score a deal on an opulent riad or multi-course dinner, even if you’re on a tight budget. Morocco truly caters to all price ranges, making it one of the top destinations for any travel lover.

Read More From the Morocco Travel Blog

How to Get to Chefchaouen, Morocco By Taxi, Bus, & Private Car (2024)

Best Time to Visit Chefchaouen: Seasonal + Monthly Breakdown

Best Time to Visit Morocco: When & Where to Go

12 Best Restaurants in Essaouira (2024): The Ultimate Foodie Guide

Essaouira Travel Guide 2024: Essential Information + Insider Tips

Chefchaouen Travel Guide (2024): Insider Tips + Pictures

Best Time to Visit Essaouira (Season + Monthly Breakdown)

17 Unique Things to Do in Chefchaouen (With Pictures!)

19 Things to Do in Essaouira in 2024 (+ Insider Tips)

17 Captivating Places to Visit in Morocco (2024)

Morocco Travel Guide

Your ultimate morocco travel guide, with tips, things to do, and best things to see in morocco. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Morocco is a fascinating multicultural country blended from African, Arab and European influences.

It is our closest link to the continent of Africa and a diverse holiday destination.

The country offers an incredible amount of history, culture, art, and music along with a fascinating geographical landscape incorporating the Sahara desert, the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic coastline. 

This  Morocco trave l guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Moroccan Foods
• 5 Things to See in Morocco

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Morocco

• Moroccan power voltage  is 127/220 V 60 Hz; Power sockets C & E
• The local currency  is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD) and is around 9.50 MAD to 1 USD
• In the north of Morocco, visitors will find the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, claimed by Morocco and considered by the Moroccan state to be “occupied territory.”
• In these two towns, the main currency is the euro.
• Tipping  is a way of life in Morocco; almost any service can warrant a tip so make sure to bring small bills.
• Haggling  is also a way of life in Morocco.
• NEVER  pay the asking price, vendors often double or even triple the prices of an item to allow some wiggle room through the haggling process.
• If you are not Muslim,  you are not allowed in many of the mosques. Exceptions include the partially restored Almohad structure of Tin Mal in the High Atlas, the similarly disused Great Mosque at Smara in Western Sahara, the courtyard of the sanctuary-mosque of Moulay Ismail in Meknes and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
• Moroccan laws  towards alcohol are quite liberal however drinking alcohol in public places is not recommended. During Ramandan, try to avoid drinking, eating or smoking in public during the hours of fasting.
• SIM Cards :

Things to See and Do in Morocco

• Enjoy a Four-Wheeling Adventure – join the guides of Dunes Desert Exploration and take a three hour tour in the desert on your very own dune buggy or quad bike.
• Surf’s up  – Taghazout is a small fishing village 19 km north of the city of Agadir in the southwest of Morocco and houses some of the country’s best surf spots. It is nestled amongst a set of small bays just south of the legendary surf breaks of Anchor Point, Killers, and Mysteries. 
• Go to a Hammam  – A Hammam is a hot steam bath followed by a massage. Sounds simple enough doesn’t it? It definitely can be quite the experience! 
• Visit Fes  – Fes is the oldest city in the country and the Medina (or Fes el-Bali) is a World Heritage site. Fez is also famous for its leather products and most of it comes from the leather bazaar (souq). The souq is home to three ancient leather tanneries, the largest and oldest being the Chouara Tannery, which is almost a thousand years old.
• Take a cooking course  – learn how to cook traditional Morrocans dishes from a gourmet chef while enjoying great conversations, appetizers and tea.
• Watch the sun rise on a Merzouga morning – to experience a desert sunrise is an unforgettable experience and the best place to do so is at the Merzouga sand dunes of Erg Chebbi
• Take in the colors of the Dades Gorge – There is nothing in the world quite like the Dades Valley. The mineral-rich Dades Gorge sparkles in many hues of blue and green as well as white and red.
• Spend a day in Jemaa el Fna in Marrakech  – one of the main cultural spaces in Marrakech, this square has become one of the symbols of the city.

Morocco Travel Guides

• Top 5 Things You Must See in Morocco
• Things to Do in Marrakech – Practical Travel Tips and Where to Stay
• Etiquette in the Middle East- Travel for Men and Women

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find a variety of hostels from 53-175 MAD per night. Enjoy dorms or private rooms, free breakfast, hot showers, and central locations to nearby tourist destinations. The Riad Verus in Fes even offers free Arabic classes. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range, expect to pay around 380-860 MAD per night. These hotels come with a hotel restaurant and bar, rooms with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and room service. 

High-End:  For five-star hotels, you will pay around 860-4,100 MAD per night.Take in the best withspa services, fine dining, swimming pools with lounge areas, refined private suites with living rooms, a fitness center, and an airport shuttle. 

Moroccan cuisine has a variety of influences, including Arabic, Berber, Mediterranean, and Andalusian cuisine, among others. Staples include fruits, vegetables, meat (beef, goat, lamb, and mutton), seafood, grapes, olive oil, and spices.

Couscous is a popular dish and is often served with meat or vegetables. Morocco also has a vibrant street food scene, where you can sample dishes like harira (a soup made from tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, lamb, rice, and spices such as cinnamon) or merguez (minced beef or lamb sausages served in flatbread). There are sit-down restaurants as well where you can try more of Morocco’s cuisine. In total, expect to pay around 120 MAD per day for food. Read our full article 13 Delicious Moroccan Foods to Eat When Visiting Morocco

The Best Ways to Get Around Morocco

Getting to morocco:.

Flights:  Morocco has 25 airports, but the main airport to fly into is the Mohammed V International Airport, located 15.5 miles from the city center of Casablanca. Another popular airport is Marrakesh Menara International Airport (4.6 miles from downtown Marrakesh), but the flights are mostly from Europe. You can check for the best flights to Morocco on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : Buses are good for traveling between cities. For more local trips between towns, expect to pay 3-5 MAD, or to go between cities, expect to pay between 210-340 MAD. A bus trip from Casablanca to Marrakesh, for example, will cost about 210 MAD.

Car Rental:  To rent a car, you need to be at least 18-21 years old with a U.S. driver’s license that you have held for 1-2 years. Car rental prices start at 450 MAD per day for drivers 25 and older.

Taxis:  Taxis are another way to get around. There are two types of taxis in Morocco: Petit and Grand. Petit taxis can seat up to 3 passengers, are metered, and only travel in the city, while Grand can seat up to and travel outside of a city. Grand taxis tend to have a fixed rate of 10.5 MAD for in-city travel.

Uber:  Uber is not available at the time.

When to go To Morocco

For cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds, visit Morocco during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-November. The fall season in particular is a great time for hiking.

During the summer months of June-August, temperatures can get very hot, especially the closer you are to the Sahara, while winter months see more rainfall, which can dampen outdoor activities.

Where to Stay in Morocco

Hotel Moroccan House Casablanca :  When in Casablanca, stay in this beautifully decorated hotel. Featuring traditional Moroccan-styled rooms, amenities include massage services, a restaurant, a hammam, and breakfast. For those who want to explore more of Casablanca, the tram station is just a 3-minute walk away.

Riad Rcif:  Come stay in a restored 14 th -century palace at this unique hotel in Fes. Featuring colorfully decorated hotel rooms with artwork and glass-stained windows, the hotel also comes with a restaurant, a roof terrace with great views of the city, room service, and free breakfast. The Ibn Danan Synagogue is just 1.5 miles away. 

ibis Marrakech Centre Gare Hotel:  Just a short trip to Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Majorelle Garden, and the Koutoubia Mosque, this popular hotel in Marrakesh is a great place to stay. Swim in the outdoor pool while enjoying the surrounding gardens, watch TV in your hotel room, get drinks anytime at the 24-hour bar, order room service, or dine at the hotel restaurant.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO   for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for Morocco

Morocco is about the size of France with coasts upon the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea and  has an arid climate .

The coastal regions generally have a Mediterranean climate, however as travelers move further inland the conditions can become more extreme and elevation can play a role in the changeable weather conditions.

Morocco is also a Muslim country

• Modesty is respected  and travellers are expected to follow the country’s etiquette. In villages and small towns, and even in the medinas of large cities, many women still wear the veil and the street is seen as strictly the man’s domain.
• Women travelers  should avoid wearing revealing clothes, like short shorts, low cut shirts or thin-strapped blouses.
• Sarongs  – I think we have sarongs in every packing list. From covering up when visiting mosques, being used as a towel or keeping cool on a hot night.
• Pack loose clothing with breathable fabric  – cover up with fabric you know will breathe, especially if you plan on heading into the Sahara desert or to one of the coastal regions.
• Tunics  are a great option as they can be dressed up or down, are lightweight and offer good coverage.
• Footwear  – Pack a pair of lightweight, durable and comfortable shoes. Moroccan streets can be dusty and unclean so if you are uncomfortable with the idea of getting your little piggies dirty then opt for closed-toe shoes instead of sandals/flip flops.
• Kleenex / toilet paper  – it is quite common that restaurant restrooms do not offer toilet paper to patrons, so make sure you are prepared.
• Also, don’t be surprised if you encounter squat toilets!

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel

And see our  Etiquette Tips for Travel to the Middle East

Morocco Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Morocco Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Morocco  click here.

Traditional Moroccan Food to Eat in Morocco or At Home

22 Best Things to Do in Marrakech, Morocco

Hammam Spa Tips – Our Surreal Moroccan Massage Experience

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Heart My Backpack uses affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission.

A Two Week Morocco Itinerary You Should Steal

April 25, 2022 by Silvia 50 Comments

Updated April 2022

I don’t always love planning a trip. I pretend I’m such a free spirit that I just can’t be tied down to schedules, but the truth is I find it hard to make a proper schedule in advance – especially for countries I’ve never been to before. I need to feel out a place first, see what the transport situation is, and how exhausted or bored or love-struck a place makes me.

But since Danielle and I only had two weeks in Morocco, we wanted to come up with the perfect two week Morocco itinerary.

I usually plan the first few nights of accommodation of a two-week trip, and then I figure out the rest after I arrive. Sometimes this works in my favor, while other times I end up missing out on really cool things that I could have experienced if I had been more organized.

And that is why I am SO proud of how perfect my two-week Morocco itinerary turned out to be.

Over the course of the trip, Danielle and I kept remarking over how perfectly everything was falling into place. We fit way more into our two weeks in Morocco than I had expected to, I ended up loving all of our accommodation choices, and I think we saw Moroccan cities and villages in exactly the right order.

I’d love to take credit for it, but honestly, it was mostly just luck. And I feel so lucky about it that I want everyone to do the exact same trip! Or at least look over this two week Morocco itinerary and see if it could work for you, because I really, really loved it. Like I might just need to go back and do it all over again, exactly the same. Would that be weird?

Now, we technically only had 12 days in Morocco, but I decided to extend this itinerary to 14 days because two extra days would have been quite nice. On the other hand, I think you could also make this work for a 10-day itinerary if you’re pressed for time.

Getting to Morocco

The great thing about Morocco is that lots of budget airlines fly here from Europe, so you don’t need to fly in and out of the same airport.

Danielle and I both flew with Tap Portugal. Danielle booked a roundtrip flight from New York to Lisbon, and then a super cheap flight from Lisbon to Casablanca, and then returning out of Marrakech back to Lisbon. And I booked flights for about $80 from Norway with a layover in Paris.

Of course we could have booked roundtrip tickets, but it would have meant less flexibility. If you’re looking for a way to find the cheapest roundtrip/one-way routes, Kiwi.com is the perfect flight hacking tool for this, because they search all the budget airlines as well. Just remember if you book on Kiwi, book your luggage in advance as well as it’s way cheaper.  You can read all my tips for booking cheap flights here .

Anyway, that’s all to say, if you can, try to book a flight into Casablanca and then leaving from Marrakech, as you’ll save so much time (and money!) that way.

Packing for Morocco

I’ve written more about traveling as a woman in Morocco and what to wear in Morocco here . You do have to be a bit careful with what you wear in Morocco, but don’t worry, I’ve found lots of nice options for you.

And please, please, don’t forget travel insurance! I always book with World Nomads because on the two occassions that I needed to file claims with them they made the process so simple, no questions asked. I’ve tried other cheaper alternatives in the past and have been screwed over, so now I know to just always go with World Nomads. You can get a quote for your trip here .

Day 1 – Casablanca

Danielle and I both flew into Casablanca. Considering our first destination in Morocco was Chefchaouen, and there are several international airports in Morocco that are much closer to Chefchaouen, this might not have been the smartest choice, except that I’m so happy we didn’t skip Casablanca. In fact, I think it made for the perfect first stop in Morocco.

We arrived in Casablanca too late to catch the 1 pm bus to Chefchaouen so we booked a stay with a local family in the medina. I can’t find that specific listing now, but there are a lot of lovely options in Casablanca, like cozy flat .

If you’d rather stay in a hotel in Casablanca, we later met two girls who had stayed at the Atlas Almohades and really loved it. Check here for current prices and availability

Casablanca isn’t much of a tourist destination in Morocco, which meant that locals didn’t pay us much attention – something I was very relieved about after having read so many horror stories about female travel in Morocco (SPOILER: I wasn’t really harassed at all during my two weeks in Morocco).

I had heard that Casablanca is underwhelming and that it’s mostly just famous because of the movie, but honestly I’m so glad I went. It definitely felt like the least touristy city I visited in Morocco, which I really loved. Like I think Casablanca gave me the best feel for what Morocco is like for locals.

After arriving Danielle and I headed out into the medina in search of food, and we quickly found a stand selling snail soup, which we thought would make the perfect first meal in Morocco!

And the snail soup man was so kind to us that we asked him where we could find tagine (the obvious choice for our second meal in Morocco), and he showed us down a little alley where we ate what probably was my favorite tagine in Morocco (and at $1.50 also the cheapest).

If you have a bit longer or would like a more guided experience to Casablanca, check out this 4-hour sightseeing tour or this private half-day tour.

Day 2 – Casablanca to Chefchaouen

We spent the next morning wandering the medina a bit more, and then we caught the 1:30 pm bus to Chefchaouen!

Our bus got into Chefchaouen at 8 pm, basically giving us enough time to find our guest house.

We stayed at Dar Besmellah in Chefchaouen, which is run by the nicest family. The dad actually works in Oslo, so the son spoke some Norwegian! So random. And the daughter showed us some nice local spots.  Check current rates and availability here

If Dar Besmellah is booked up, try Dar Elrio or Riad Cherifa , both have high reviews and while they’re a bit more luxurious, they’re still quite affordable.

Another option is to look for Vrbos in Chefchaouen, like this  studio with gorgeous terrace views or this  stunning four-story home.  This is a great way to get to know the locals better, instead of just staying in a tourist hotel or riad.

Day 3 – Chefchaouen

It rained all day in Chefchaouen, so I didn’t get to do as much on this day as I would have liked. Instead, Danielle and I spent the morning in a small restaurant having a big breakfast and drinking a lot of mint tea. And then we asked our guest house what we could do while it was so cold and rainy and they sent us to the hammam for a good scrubbing.

For dinner, we headed to Chez Hicham, mostly because we could eat upstairs in front of the fireplace, though it also ended up being one of my favorite meals in Morocco.

Click here to read more about our two days in Chefchaouen , including the best things to do – and what to eat!

Day 4 – Chefchaouen to Fes (Ain Cheggag)

As the day before had been so rainy, we got the late afternoon bus to Fes and spent the day exploring Chefchaouen in the sunshine.

We left with the CTM bus at 15:15, which arrived in Fes at 19:30. Then we got a shared taxi to the village of Ain Cheggag, where we stayed with a friend. If you’re staying in Fes and would rather book your transfer ahead time, try out this company .

To be honest if I were to do this trip again I would book a private tranfer, because I got  so carsick on the bus. The road from Chefchaouen is really windy and being in a bus always makes it so much worse. At least the bus was comfortable though, and I didn’t actually end up getting sick, so it definitely could have been worse!

Days 5- 6 Ain Cheggag

So, this is the part of my itinerary that would be hard to replicate, but it was also probably my favorite part of my two weeks in Morocco.

Danielle and I spent three days staying with Danielle’s friend who lives in Ain Cheggag, a village outside of Fes. She’s just finishing up three years working with the Peace Corps in Ain Cheggag, so staying with her was a great way to learn more about Morocco. We met her friends and ate meals with some of the local families she was closest to.

And we let them dress us up like Moroccan women.

We didn’t actually spend the night of Day 6 here, but instead caught the 8:30 pm Supratours night bus from Fes to Merzouga.

I think staying in a village added so much to my experience in Morocco, so if possible I would try to look for people on Couchsurfing or Vrbo who live outside of the cities to stay with. The only tour I found that could give you a  taste of Moroccan life out of a big city is this farm life tour in the Atlas Mountains .

Otherwise, you could just spend these two nights in Fes, OR just spend one night and one day in Fes, and use the extra day to visit either somewhere in the Atlas mountains while on your way to Marrakech.

Day 7 – Sahara Desert (Merzouga)

We arrived early in the morning to Merzouga and then caught up on some sleep at our guest house, L’Auberge Petit Prince, who also organized our desert camping tour. Then at 4 pm, we headed out on our camels into the Sahara Desert!

Check here for current prices for L’Auberge Petit Prince

If L’Auberge Petit Prince is booked up, then check out some of the Airbnb options in Merzouga.  There’s everything from more luxurious places like Hotel Kanz Erremal to glamping in traditional Berber tents to budget-friendly places, like Merzouga Hostel .

We spent the night in the desert – click here to read more about our experience of camping in the Sahara Desert . If your accommodation can’t help you with booking a desert tour, check some of these tours .

And if you’re wondering if the desert tour is worth it, oh my goodness yes it is! We seriously had the best time in our tent, and the camel ride was so much fun. So, so worth it.

Day 8 – Merzouga to Essaouira

This was by far our longest travel day, which started on camelback, then a twelve-hour bus, and  then a shared taxi up to Essaouira.

We left our desert camp at 5:30 am so that we would have time to eat breakfast at our guesthouse in Merzouga and then catch the 8 am bus to Marrakech, which arrived at 8:30 pm.

The bus to Marrakech is really, really long. But the journey is also incredibly beautiful, so I’m really glad that we didn’t opt for the night bus instead.

If you have an extra day or two (for example if you opted to only spend one day and night in Fes), it might be nice to break up this journey a bit. Tinerhir looked like a really interesting place,  Ouarzazate is another popular stop, or you could stay somewhere high up in the Atlas Mountains.

You can also find a lot of cool tours that take you deeper into the culture of the Atlas Mountains like this tour through several villages and this trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou .

After arriving in Marrakech we walked over to the shared taxi stand outside of the medina and caught a shared taxi to Essaouira, which arrived around 11 pm.

In Essaouira, we stayed three nights at Villa Maroc, a beautifully designed hotel (with a gorgeous pool!). This was one of the nicest places we stayed in Morocco, and I think Essaouira was the perfect place to splurge a bit on accommodation.  Check here for current prices for Villa Maroc

If Villa Maroc is unavailable, check out the different stays in Essaouira , such as this apartment with sea views , this beautiful townhouse , or a room this riad .

Days 9 – 10 Essaouira

Originally I didn’t think we’d have time for Essaouira, but when we realized we could get the night bus from Fes to Merzouga and do a desert tour straight from there, we ended up having a few extra days to visit this beach city.

And I’m so glad we did! I would probably rate Essaouira as my #1 must-see in Morocco – at least (besides the village) it was my favorite place we visited during our two weeks in Morocco. Like, I would definitely choose seeing Essaouira over Chefchaouen or Marrakech if it came down to it. Personally I found Essaouira more beautiful than Chefchaouen or Marrakech, and the people there were really laidback.

It just seemed like the easiest place to be a tourist in Morocco, as I wasn’t really hassled, the city is beautiful, and there’s so much to do there. Plus it doesn’t have that super touristy feel that Marrakech does.

In fact if I had a really short time in Morocco I would probably just go to Marrakech and Essaouira.

But if you’re really pressed for time, you could book a day trip to Essaouira – though in that case, I would book transport ahead of time, as we spent hours waiting around for our shared taxi to fill up. Check rates and availability for Essaouira day trips here

Click here to read more about my time in Essaouira , including things to do and where to eat in Essaouira.

Day 11 – Essaouira to Marrakech

We spent the day in Essaouira and caught a shared taxi to Marrakech around 4 pm, which meant that we arrived in Marrakech just around dinner time.

If you’d rather book your transfer ahead of time, check out this option.

Days 12 – 13 Marrakech

I actually only spent two nights in Marrakech, but Danielle had three nights and I did wish I had had an extra day there!

That said, I’m also very, very glad that we did Marrakech last.

Marrakech is full of tourists (I mean, obviously) and I think it can be a bit of a shock for people who make it their first stop in Morocco. It’s noisy and crowded and I would say because of the tourists it’s probably the place in Morocco where you’re most likely to be harassed, hassled, or ripped off.

But by the time I arrived in Marrakech I was already so in love with Morocco that I didn’t even notice any of that. And while two weeks isn’t a long time, I think it was long enough for me to feel at least a bit more confident in brushing off remarks and bargaining for pretty Moroccan items – and in Marrakech, you have to bargain  hard .

It was kind of shocking how much higher prices the vendors were quoting than in the other cities I had been to, but they usually would end up agreeing on something more reasonable (usually around half, or sometimes less than half of the originally price).

And there is so much to buy there so you will need to get your bargaining on! I’m actually seriously considering taking a weekend trip from Norway to Marrakech purely for shopping since flights are so cheap and they seriously have the best interior products. Think amazing rugs, cushions, fabrics – you’ll find it all in Marrakech.

If you’re worried about being hassled in Marrakech, you could always sign up for  a private day tour in Marrakech  so that you have the comfort of a guide. My friends who did this said they weren’t hassled at all when their guide was with them.

I also think my accommodation in Marrakech made my experience there all the more lovely.

We stayed at the Riad Dombaraka, run by the nicest French woman. Dominique has only been living Morocco for five years, but she’s incredibly involved in local projects. She has designed her riad with love and it truly was the most beautiful riad I saw in Morocco.

Check current prices for Riad Dombaraka

I also just loved the atmosphere at Riad Dombaraka. When we arrived we joined Dominique and some other guests for a glass of wine in the gardens, and it really did feel more like staying with a family than at a hotel.

Speaking with Dominique as well as a couple who rent an apartment from her helped me see Marrakech beyond the tourist appeal. I can imagine it being a great place for expats, and there are so many hidden gems in those winding alleys beyond all the tourist kitsch.

Because no, I can’t say I was so very taken by Marrakech’s main square. Maybe because I had heard so much about it before going, I felt like it was a bit of a letdown? At least, it was pretty much like an extra touristy version of other city squares in North Africa.

Day 14 – Fly home!

Marrakech’s airport is really convenient as it’s just a short taxi ride from the city center, and it’s small enough that you can get through security really quickly. If you’d rather book a private transfer to the airport, you can book it here .

Want to see more of my travel photos? Follow me on Instagram here ♥

Want to see more of my travel videos? Subscribe on YouTube here ♥

this post contains affiliate links

Related posts.

Reader Interactions

Get updates.

Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive updates and stories from my world travels and life in Norway!

March 27, 2017 at 4:19 pm

Awesome post! I’m jonsing to go to Morocco one day!! Fingers crossed!!! =)

Silvia says

March 29, 2017 at 3:01 pm

I hope you go and that you love it!

Monica says

March 27, 2017 at 7:27 pm

Amazing post! I was planning my trip for June and your tips make it a lot easier! Monica

March 29, 2017 at 2:59 pm

I hope you love it there!

Cynthia says

March 27, 2017 at 9:13 pm

Amazing post! I’ve really been wanting to go to Morocco but wasn’t sure where to start at all – looks like an unforgettable trip. It would be really helpful to know about how much this trip (or a trip like this) costs / how much generally to save for/expect…

March 29, 2017 at 2:58 pm

I spent just under 500 euros on this trip (excluding flights), though I think it could be done for much more or much less.

Sophie says

March 28, 2017 at 3:04 am

Sounds like a great itinerary! I’d love to visit Morocco sometime soon – it looks sooo beautiful! I’ll definitely be stealing some of your advice haha.

http://travelmatters.co

March 29, 2017 at 2:56 pm

You should, it was an amazing trip!

Dominique | dominiquetravels.com says

March 28, 2017 at 7:05 pm

Sounds like a gorgeous trip! You seem to really like Morocco! I can’t wait to make my way there one day!

March 29, 2017 at 2:54 pm

I hope you like it too!

March 31, 2017 at 12:10 am

We’re heading back to Europe this year for an extended time and Morocco is on our list. I’ve pinned this for safe keeping.

Danielle Theriault says

April 2, 2017 at 11:45 pm

Morocco is so colorful and beautiful! | http://ourpassportpages.com/

TravelnLass says

April 3, 2017 at 5:27 pm

Very similar to my own exploration of Morocco – which remains one of my favorite lands on the Planet. Such diversity in but a small country – from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic to the Atlas mountains to the Sahara! And yes, Essaouira (which I’ve dubbed “The city of vowels!) – seriously enchanting, along with Fez (verily the oldest continuous market on the globe!)

But even more so than these – beloved Chefchaouen. Sorry your visit proved soggy, but had it been dry, I have no doubt you too would have fallen head-over-heels with the magic of it.

April 4, 2017 at 3:52 pm

This trip sounds so incredible! I’m going to save this itinerary and dream 🙂

April 9, 2017 at 7:38 am

Yesss you should do it!

mostafa says

August 20, 2017 at 5:23 am

Thank you silvia what you said about morocco, i am very happy to hear that from you . Welome again and again because morocco country is for you and all people, but you surprised me when you said about ain cheggag because i live nearer of ain cheggag very simple poeple friendlish . But i say to you to visit ifran city and azrou city and immozer kander city and sefrou city are very beautiful places. Thank you again with my wishes to you .

June 20, 2017 at 4:03 pm

welcome if you want to visit morroco other time you don’t have to worry about nothing.

July 13, 2017 at 8:22 pm

Hi, we were looking for how to arrange a trip to Morocco and stumbled upon your website and couldn’t be luckier! Thank you for sharing the perfect itinerary.

We have one question though: we are planning to follow your steps to Merzouga then take a desert tour from there; how did you book your hotel? You arrived in the morning and the tour started at 4 PM; so did you book the hotel for the night before (hence you can sleep in the morning and they gave you late check out) or the hotel was so kind to give you a very early check in?

Emilie says

April 28, 2018 at 2:15 pm

I’m also planning my trip and I was wondering to same thing. Did you get an answer ?

Sharmin says

May 19, 2018 at 12:57 am

Hey guys! I’m actually going to Morocco next week! We found an overnight merzouga accommodation on airbnb and I messaged the host and he arranged a whole itinerary – he’s going to pick us up from Fes and drive us into Merzouga then we’ll start the camel ride, stay in tents for two nights and then ultimately drop us off to Marakkesh. Look them up on airbnb, or message some of the guides! They’ll be able to make it easier.

Spence Colburn says

May 27, 2018 at 3:14 pm

HI Sharmin, do you mind telling me which Air bnb? I am going in August and would love to do this.

Barb headley says

February 14, 2019 at 5:53 am

Did you get an answer regarding the Airbnb guy? or discover your own itinerary for Merzouga , desert, transport.?

Kaylie says

September 2, 2017 at 1:52 pm

Beautiful photos, it looks like such a vibrant place.

Virikson Morocco Holidays says

December 27, 2017 at 2:11 pm

I truly like the Moroccan elegance of perfume it looks much more usual than the man made stuff in the UK. Thanks for writing!

Ashley Stewart says

January 2, 2018 at 2:43 am

Thanks so much for sharing your experience! It’s helping me with my itinerary quite a bit!

January 3, 2018 at 6:13 pm

I’m so happy to hear that!

Elsa Bonyhadi says

January 4, 2018 at 9:53 pm

Hi! I just booked flights to Europe yesterday for a 12-day trip to Morrocco and stumbled onto your blog and I’m so glad I did. I had initially planned to fly straight into Marrakech, with a night n the desert and a trip out to Essaouira but your itinerary has swayed me. I am now thinking of flying into Tangier and following a similar, saving the night in Fes and giving myself a couple more days in an ecohostel in a small town outside Essaouira. I would love to know which, if any, parts of your travel/accommodations you needed to plan/book in advance. I am a young woman and unless I can convince a friend to come with, I will be traveling alone so I just want to make sure I have any ducks that need to be in a row, in a row. Thanks!

Andre Pereira says

March 5, 2018 at 6:59 pm

Hi Silvia! First of all, congrats for the excelent work ou are doing here! 🙂 I’m planning my 13 days trip to Morocco, from south to north and was thinking to rent a car and explore the country in my own way. There was any concrete reason for you to chose the bus instead? thanks a lot!

Kelly Witmer says

March 14, 2018 at 4:54 pm

Thanks so much for posting this – really helpful in planning a trip there next week!

Hussrein Rajab says

May 23, 2018 at 3:26 pm

Hi Silvia, Nice post! I am glad you have enjoyed your trip. I am interesting in going in few weeks from now, starting with Marrakesh. How is the weather in June?

May 23, 2018 at 11:14 pm

I visited in March.

June 21, 2018 at 11:11 pm

Hi Sylvia! I absolutely loved this post. I’m currently planning a trip to Morocco in July as I’ll be studying abroad in Paris. However, I only have a 5-day weekend to travel in Morocco. Since you’ve gone and experienced Morocco first-hand, I was wondering if you could recommend which 2-3 cities are a must-see! Or at least which 2-3 are the most realistic to visit in the span of 5 days.

June 22, 2018 at 3:52 pm

My favorite city was Essaouira – so maybe visit Marrakech and Essaouira? That would at least give you a nice intro to Morocco.

Darcie says

July 16, 2018 at 7:11 pm

I love all your posts Silvia! Just a question about transport… when you travelled by bus which company did you prefer, supratours or CTM? Looking online I can’t seem to find a way to book in advance with supratours. Was it the same for you? And is that the only way to Mergouza? Thanks! 🙂

CYNTHIA says

August 1, 2018 at 6:51 pm

Hi!! I’m going to Morocco in December..your post was so helpful! Do you know if from Merzouga there is a night bus or train to Marrakech or Ouarzazate? I haven’t been able to find one.

Gayle Temkin says

December 17, 2018 at 1:55 am

Silvia: I love your post too. I’m a senior planning a nomadic trip and came across yours and decided to follow it and be open to how the winds blow. You made it much easier for me to understand how to navigate in Morocco. But here is what is also interesting about connecting with your blog: I’m planning to go to Norway afterwards and do the fjords. I’m on assignment in Spain in February and will be traveling to the Basque Country and other spots, then to Morocco and then to Norway and back to Texas. I’d love to connect with you about Norway. I will look to see if you have post for winter travel but if not I could use some pointers. Thanks.

February 11, 2019 at 10:29 pm

Great itinerary, we half-way through our stay in Morocco and i was looking for inspiration and I found it. Thank you

April 18, 2019 at 7:01 pm

Thinking to go travelling Morocco in end of June while working remotely. How did you find the broadband connection (I don’t require great speeds just to be solid) and do you think that would be possible?

Amelia says

August 5, 2019 at 5:30 pm

Thank you for sharing with us this itinerary, it is interesting to visit these beautiful places in Morocco.

October 31, 2019 at 3:35 pm

Hi Silvia, I have only just come across your post due to looking at another desitnation. My reccomendation to you is go to Agadir, you will truelu enjoy this place and fall in love with morocco.

November 21, 2019 at 2:54 pm

Hey Silvia…! I keep reading your blogs on travel very often. Carries great information and covers many aspects at the destinations. The two week Morocco itinerary is very helpful. Especially, you covered everything from packing to insurance and getting around Morocco. And also, your blog is vivid and pictures are perfect. Thanks a lot for sharing the details on Morocco.

Morocco Tours says

December 15, 2019 at 12:27 pm

Great post! I like your amazing experience in our contry. Thank you so much for the inspiring post and gorgeous photos.

Lahcen oulfakir says

July 18, 2021 at 1:07 pm

Hello, I am Lahcen from Morocco, I really like your article and very happy that you enjoyed your Moroccan experience. We really hope that covid ends soon and back to the normal life and people travel again and meet new people. Thank you so much for the great page about Morocco and welcome to your second country.

April 28, 2022 at 11:35 pm

Thank you for this, I’ll be going this summer in June, solo, for about 2 weeks also. I did not get a separate flight out of Marrakech and will be flying in an out of Casablanca, my flight price would have doubled if I flew out of Marrakech! I’m not big on night buses or long bus rides, I think I’ll be taking trains as much as I can, hopefully it works out without too much hassle. I’m glad you had a great time and look forward to my trip even more now thanks to your descriptions.

Rachid says

May 2, 2022 at 3:41 pm

Thanks for taking your time and providing us with this informative content.

Bernadeta says

December 13, 2022 at 3:51 pm

So many details and information. Such a helpful post. I am planning another trip to Marrakesh and it will help me with location to see/visit

Morocco travel says

January 13, 2023 at 9:14 pm

Wonderful and amazing article full of value thanks for sharing it with us

Raegan says

October 15, 2023 at 4:53 pm

You have some wonderful suggestions. I have a question. Why did you choose to take busses as opposed to trains or self driving? We are going in January. We usually drive when we travel but are considering taking trains-faster than busses-so the driver can enjoy the view too. Your photos are lovely!!!

October 17, 2023 at 11:49 am

We chose the busses based on what fit our schedule, and neither of us wanted to drive. Have a wonderful time!

morocco tours says

February 21, 2024 at 6:11 pm

it amazing blog thank you very much for all this hard work

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

COME AND GET IT!

Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive updates and stories from my world travels and life in Norway:

Morocco Itinerary – Visit the best places in Morocco in 7 days, 10 days, 14 days or longer!

Are you looking for a great Morocco itinerary to see the best places in the country in 7 days, 10 days, 14 days or longer? Here are 3 complete itineraries to discover the North, the South, and the coast of Morocco.

Whether you’re planning only a short trip or an epic journey to the country, these Morocco itineraries will help you plan every step of your adventure and see the most beautiful places in Morocco.

What is there not to love in Morocco ? This widely varied country is safe to travel to and has truly stunning waterfalls, photogenic and colorful cities, arid mountains, awesome surfing beaches, and a vast desert!

Morocco is a country I fell in love with and to which I keep going back year after year. The people and the culture completely charmed me as well as the gorgeous destinations around Morocco.

There are so many points of interest in Morocco that it’s hard to choose which of the beautiful places to visit in the country, especially if you only have a short time to travel.

The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco

In this article, I’ll give you 3 Morocco itinerary ideas that you can combine to create the ultimate trip!

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Morocco Travel essentials and resources

• Morocco Travel Guide: 19 things you should know before you go
• Where to go: The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco
• Plan your trip: 3 itineraries to discover the best of Morocco
• Is Morocco safe: 18 useful tips to stay safe while traveling in Morocco
• Tours and experiences: Book a customized tour
• Where to stay : Find a room in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or desert camp
• Travel Insurance: Find the best travel insurance for Morocco
• Getting around : Rent a car in Morocco or travel by bus or train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 Morocco Travel itinerary ideas

Below you’ll find 3 Morocco itinerary suggestions. Each itinerary is focused on a specific part of the country (7 to 10 days in Morocco) and are made to be combined it you’re looking for a longer trip (a 2 week Morocco itinerary or longer).

I also describe how to get from one place to the other by public transport (bus and train) but you could also rent a car to travel around Morocco.

Everything you need to know about renting a car and driving in Morocco

Northern Morocco Itinerary 7 days or 10 days: The four Imperial Cities Route

If you have 7 or 10 days in Morocco and want to visit some of the most beautiful and popular cities of Morocco ( Tangier , Chefchaouen , Casablanca ) and its 4 imperial cities ( Fez, Meknes , Rabat and Marrakesh ), this itinerary will be the one for you.

I’m sharing the 10-day itinerary for this route in detail but you can find a shorter itinerary in the overview below if you only have 7 days and want to visit the 4 imperial cities.

7-day Morocco itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Tangier, overnight in Tangier
• Day 2: Chefchaouen, overnight in Chefchaouen
• Day 3: Travel day to Fez, overnight in Fez
• Day 4: Fez, overnight in Fez
• Day 5: Meknes and Rabat, overnight in Rabat
• Day 6: Rabat and Marrakesh, overnight in Marrakesh
• Day 7: Marrakesh, departure from Marrakesh

10-day Morocco itinerary

• Day 3: Akchour waterfalls, overnight in Chefchaouen
• Day 4: Travel day to Fez, overnight in Fez

Day 5: Fez, overnight in Fez

• Day 6: Meknes, overnight in Meknes
• Day 7: Rabat, overnight in Rabat
• Day 8: Casablanca, overnight in Casablanca
• Day 9: Marrakesh, overnight in Marrakesh
• Day 10: Marrakesh, departure from Marrakesh

Day 1: Tangier, overnight in Tangier

Tangier is a beautiful coastal city that can be reached by ferry from Spain or by airplane. If you take an early ferry from Tarifa or an early flight, you’ll have the whole day to explore the city.

Tangier has an aura of mystery. It was a hot spot for spies and international intrigue during the second world war. It was also the favorite city and home of many literary expats such as William Burroughs and Paul Bowles.

Some of the places to visit in Tangier in one day are:

• the Phoenician Tombs
• Grand Socco & Cinema Rif
• Berber Farmer Market
• Sour al Maagazine
• Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules as a half-day trip

20 Top Things to do in Tangier – Complete City Guide

Where to stay in Tangier

• Top pick for low-budget: Tanja Lucia Hostel
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Dar Nour
• Top pick for riad: Riad Tingis

Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen, overnight in Chefchaouen

It takes around 3 hours to reach Chefchaouen by bus. Ideally, you take the bus at 8 am to reach the Blue City by noon.

There are two bus stations in Tangier where you can take a bus to Chefchaouen. One of them is the main city bus station “Gare Routiere” at Place al Jamia al Arabia.

There are several buses leaving daily from Tangier to Chefchaouen. The price of a ticket is 45 MAD, and you have to pay 10 MAD extra for your luggage. The bus journey takes about 3 hours but it can happen that you’ll have to get off the bus at some point and that you’ll be put in a taxi (you don’t need to pay extra) if there aren’t enough people on the bus going directly towards Chefchaouen.

Read How to get from Tangier to Chefchaouen by bus to find more information about bus schedules and ticket prices. Chefchaouen is located in the Riff mountains of Morocco and the way there is windy but stunning.

Once you arrive in Chefchaouen, you will be charmed by the blue colors of the Medina. It’s one of the prettiest towns I’ve seen in Morocco because of its blue-washed streets and buildings. That’s why it got nicknamed “the Blue Pearl of Morocco”.

There are many different theories as to why Chefchaouen is so blue. Some say that the shades of blue on the walls keep the mosquitoes away, others believe that the blue helps to keep the houses cool during the warm summer months.

The most popular theory is that it was painted blue by the Jews who fled to Chefchaouen to escape the Spanish Inquisition in the 15th century.

There are so many fun things to do in this small town. You can get lost in the maze of streets, shop at one of the many little bazaars or get a panoramic view of the city from the Spanish mosque.

12 Top Things to do in and around Chefchaouen, the Blue City of Morocco

Where to stay in Chefchaouen

• Top pick for low-budget:   Hotel Souika
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Dar Elrio
• Top pick for riad: Riad  La Santa

Day 3: Day trip to the Akchour Waterfalls, overnight in Chefchaouen

Most people assume that Morocco is a vast arid desert but the northern part of the country is very lush and has some gorgeous waterfalls. Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Morocco are the Akchour waterfalls in the Rif mountains. This series of waterfalls is a lot calmer and less visited than the Ouzoud waterfalls near Marrakech.

Akchour is a small town with one street on which you can find a few restaurants. The town is the base of the hike to the waterfalls and it’s located just 40 minutes from Chefchaouen by car.

I explain in my guide to the Akchour waterfalls how to hike all the way to the last and final waterfall from the small town. Hiking there and back takes a whole day but it’s definitely worth the effort!

How to visit the Akchour Waterfalls in Morocco

At the end of the day, it will be easier to return to Chefchaouen by taxi and overnight there instead of sleeping in Akchour.

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fez, overnight in Fez

The next city on this itinerary is Fez. However, the distance between Chefchaouen and Fez is 200 km and driving between the two cities takes almost 4 hours by car and around 6 hours by bus. So the fifth day of this itinerary will be mainly a driving day.

It’s very easy to take a morning bus from Chefchaouen to Fez but I recommend buying your ticket in the bus station the evening before.

There are several buses leaving daily from Chefchaouen to Fes. A ticket costs around 75 dirhams + 5 to 10 dirhams extra for luggage and the ride takes about 6 hours. Check the timetables here .

Where to stay in Fez

• Top pick for low-budget:   Funky Fes
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Medina Social Club
• Top pick for riad: Dar Essoaoude

Fez is one of the most important cities in Morocco. It’s a destination rich in culture, traditions, delicious dishes and so much more!

Fez has one of the first universities and the oldest medieval Medina in the world. It’s a city that offers something new and exciting to do each day. Here are a few of the things you shouldn’t miss in Fez:

• the Chourara tanneries
• Al-Attarine Madrasa
• Royal Palace
• Marinid Tombs

The tanneries of Fez is one of the most iconic places in the city and also in the whole country! The tanneries are still operating today in the way they did during the medieval ages.

How to visit the leather tanneries in Fez

Day 6: Fez to Meknes, overnight in Meknes

Meknes is just a 45-minute train ride from Fez and worth a (half) day visit before traveling onward to Rabat. You can find the train station in Fez here and book your train tickets online . Once you arrive in Meknes, you’ll need to take a taxi if you want to reach the old city where most of the interesting sites are located.

Meknes is one of the 4 imperial cities in Morocco, along with Fez,   Rabat  and  Marrakesh . The city is on the world Unesco World Heritage List because of its beautiful medina and ruins of the royal palace. Some of the places worth visiting in Meknes in one day are:

• the Bab Mansour Laleuj and other beautiful gates around Meknes
• the Bou Inania Madrasa
• Place Hedim (also called Lahdim square)
• Souk of Meknes
• Volubilis (you’ll need at least half a day for this visit)

T h e h o n e s t travel g u i d e t o M e k n e s : t h i n g s t o d o and things to skip

Where to stay in Meknes

• Top pick for low-budget:   Riad Idrissi
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Riad Dar Meknes Tresor
• Top pick for riad:  Riad Zyna

Day 7: Meknes to Rabat, overnight in Rabat

Catch the train from Meknes to Rabat Ville early in the morning. The train journey takes a little more than 2 hours. You can book your train tickets online .

Rabat , Morocco’s capital city, has a long and rich history and is a great place to visit many captivating historical landmarks. Rabat also has its own blue city that reminded me of  Chefchaouen  in so many ways.

Whether you are a lover of history, architecture, or nature, Rabat will find a way to seduce you. Here are the places I recommend on a day visit to Rabat:

• Hassan Tower and mausoleum of Mohammed V
• Rabat’s cemetry
• Kasbah des Oudaias
• the Andalusian Gardens
• Old medina of Rabat

Top Things to do in Rabat – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Capital City

Where to stay in Rabat:

• Top pick for low-budget:   D ar wassim el ghali
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Dar Lalla Aicha
• Top pick for riad:  Riad Dar Karima

Day 8: Meknes to Casablanca, overnight in Casablanca

Casablanca and Rabat are located very close to each other. You can look online on the  ONCF website  for the timetable of the trains going between Rabat and Casablanca.

There is a train that leaves every 30 minutes and it takes about 50 minutes from Rabat Ville train station to reach Casablanca. The price of a ticket is between 35 and 80 MAD.

I’d suggest to travel to Casablanca in the morning so you have time to visit the following highlights in this metropolis:

• Hassan II mosque
• Casablanca Cathedral
• Mohammed V Square
• Mahkama du Pacha
• Casablanca Old Medina

Top things to do in Casablanca – The Complete City Guide

Where to stay in Casablanca:

• Top pick for low-budget:   L’Hostel a Casablanca
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Property located in a quiet area near the train station
• Top pick for high-end:  Mosquee and Sea View Casablanca

Day 9: Casablanca to Marrakesh, overnight in Marrakesh

The cheapest and most convenient way to travel from Casablanca to Marrakesh is by train.

There are eight trains per day between Casablanca and Marrakesh departing every couple of hours. Travel time between the two cities is around 2 hours and a half. Ticket prices and time schedules can be found on the  ONCF website and here’s the train station in Casablanca from where you have to depart.

Marrakesh is the last of the imperial cities on this Morocco itinerary and its history stretches back a thousand years. Morocco is even named after Marrakesh!

Marrakesh can feel a bit intimidating at first, especially if it would be the first place to visit in Morocco. But if you follow this itinerary, it’s a good place to finish your trip in Morocco.

On your final day in Morocco, I recommend to visit the following places in Marrakech:

•  Jemaa el Fna Main Square
• Jardin Majorelle
• Marrakech souk and medina
• the Saadian tombs
• Koutoubia mosque
• Ben Youssef Madrasah

Things to do in Marrakech – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City

Where to stay in Marrakesh:

• Top pick for low-budget:  Kasbah Red Castel Hostel
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Dar Mirai
• Top pick for riad:  Riad les 2 Portes

Day 10: Departure from Marrakesh

Today is the last day of your trip in Morocco (sad face). I hope you had an amazing time! In case your flight leaves at night and you have the time and energy to go on one final trip, I would recommend going on a day trip to the Ouzoud Waterfalls .

The Ouzoud Waterfalls is the second tallest waterfall in Africa. It’s a popular touristic destination and one of the most visited and photographed natural sites in Morocco!

The easiest way to get there would be by  booking a tour so you definitely make it back on time for your flight.

How to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls in Morocco

You could, of course, also choose to spend your last day exploring more of Marrakech.

In case your trip isn’t over yet and you’re looking for a longer itinerary, keep reading! Below is another detailed Morocco itinerary to visit more places in the centre and south of the country.

Southern Morocco itinerary 10 days or 7 days: The Sahara and Atlas Mountains Route

This southern Morocco itinerary will take you from Marrakech to the sand dunes of the Sahara desert and the Atlas Mountains.

I’m sharing a detailed 10-day itinerary for this route but you can find a shorter itinerary in the overview below if you only have 7 days and your main purpose is to visit the Sahara desert.

For this itinerary and specific part of Morocco, I recommend rent ing a car in Marrakech since exploring the South of Morocco by bus can be a bit challenging (I’ll cover the info tho) and you’ll often have to rely on (shared) taxis. Another option could be to book a tour (so you don’t have to worry about logistics) and refer to this itinerary.

7-day Morocco itinerary to the Sahara desert

• Day 1: Arrival in Marrakesh, overnight in Marrakesh
• Day 2: Marrakesh – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate, overnight in Ouarzazate
• Day 3: Ouarzazate – Agdz – Draa Valley – Nkob, overnight in Nkob
• Day 4: Nkob – Alnif – Rissani – Merzouga (Sahara desert), overnight in Merzouga
• Day 5: Merzouga (Sahara desert)
• Day 6: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley, overnight in the Dades Valley
• Day 7: Dades Valley – Skoura – Marrakesh, departure from Marrakesh

10-days itinerary to Merzouga and the Atlas Mountains

• Day 2: Marrakesh – Imlil (Atlas Mountains), overnight in Imlil
• Day 3: Trek to Toubkal, overnight in mountain refuge
• Day 4: Toubkal – Imlil, overnight in Imlil or return to Marrakesh, overnight in Marrakesh
• Day 5: Imlil/ Marrakesh – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate, overnight in Ouarzazate
• Day 6: Ouarzazate – Agdz – Draa Valley – Nkob, overnight in Nkob
• Day 7: Nkob – Alnif – Rissani – Merzouga (Sahara desert), overnight in Merzouga
• Day 8: Merzouga (Sahara desert)

Day 9: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley, overnight in the Dades Valley

• Day 10: Dades Valley – Skoura – Marrakesh, departure from Marrakesh

Day 1: Marrakech, overnight in Marrakech

Marrakech is by far the most popular and iconic Moroccan city. Day one will be dedicated to starting exploring the old medina of the city.

You’ll see the craftsmen, the tapestries, the leather bags and all the beautiful art produced in Marrakech. It will be an ideal day for immersing yourselves into the Moroccan culture.

You’ll get to try some delicious typical Moroccan fruit juices in the central square of the city and visit plenty of sights.

Here are some of the places and activities I recommend in Marrakech:

• Square Jemaa el Fna
• Visit the leather tanneries
• Visit Jardin Majorelle, a stunning botanical garden
• Get lost in the souks and the back alleys of Marrakech and buy souvenirs for friends
• Visit the Saadian tombs

In the evening, you can walk around the center square Jemaa el Fenaa and see how Marrakech has a whole different vibe at night.

Day 2: Marrakesh – Imlil, overnight in Imlil

The small village of Imlil, just an hour and a half driving from Marrakesh, sits at 1800 meters altitude in the high Atlas Mountains of Morocco. It’s located at the base of Toubkal, the highest mountain peak in the country and one of the “easiest” peaks above 4000 meters to climb. 

There are plenty of beautiful hikes around Imlil. The most popular one is the Mount Toubkal Trek . If you’re not up for this trek, which I cover for the next couple of days in this itinerary, I’ll share some alternative day hikes in the area.

Imlil is very easy to reach from Marrakesh by public transport. The small mountain village is just 60 km from Marrakesh so getting there doesn’t take much time (75-90 minutes).

The easiest way is to take a  shared taxi – or a  grand taxi  as they are called in Morocco – across the street from the Jemaa el-Fnaa bus stop . Once you get to this taxi station, it’s possible to hire the whole taxi for yourself for  250 MAD  to  300 MAD  or you can share it with other passengers. If you wait for the taxi to fill up, the price will be much lower (around  50 MAD  to get to Imlil).

You can also reach Imlil by taking a bus to Asni (here’s the bus station in Marrakesh ) and then catching a taxi for 10 MAD from there to Imlil.

I recommend taking a (grand) taxi or the bus to Imlil in the early morning so you can spend the day exploring the village and go for a hike to the radio tower .

Imlil Guide: Things to do and best hikes in and around Imlil.

Where to stay in Imlil:

• Top pick for low-budget:   Dar Amadine  
• Top-pick for mid-range:   Berber Family Lodge
• Top pick for riad:  Riad Dar Omar

Day 3: Trek to Toubkal (or day hike in Imlil), overnight in mountain refuge

Today will be the first day of 2-day trek to Mount Toubkal. Today you’ll hike around 5 hours from Imlil to the mountain refuge on the way to the summit. It is mandatory to hike to Toubkal with a guide and there are three police checkpoints that verify you are accompanied by a guide.

I have a detailed guide about this trek (where to book a tour or get a guide, how much it costs, what you need to know, etc) so if you’re interested in the 2-day trek to the highest summit of Morocco (4167m), definitely read my guide below:

The Complete Trekking Guide to hiking Mount Toubkal in Morocco .

Alternatively, if this trek sounds too strenuous, you can do a nice day hike (17km) from Imlil to t h e n e a r b y v i l l a g e o f A s n i and spend the night in Imlil.

Day 4: Toubkal to Imlil (or day hike in Imlil), overnight in Imlil or Marrakesh

If you’re doing the trek to Mount Toubkal, your guide will wake you early in the morning to set off and reach the summit as the sun rises.

The views from the summit are amazing: across the mountains to Marrakech to the north, and the start of the Sahara to the south. During the ascent you will get more stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, and you’ll hike back to Imlil through green valleys and Berber Villages. The total duration of today’s hike is about 7 hours.

Alternatively, if you didn’t do the trek to Mount Toubkal, you can go on a nice and easy hike from Imlil to the waterfall of Armound .

You can choose to spend another night in Imlil or head back to Marrakesh ( 1,5-hour drive) and spend the night there. This latter will be the easiest option if you’re traveling by public transport.

You can find grand taxis to Marrakesh at the taxi station in Imlil . The price should be around 50 MAD if you wait until the taxi fills up or 300 MAD to have the taxi for yourself. You’ll get dropped off at the same place where you took the taxi to Imlil from Marrakesh .

Day 5: Marrakesh/ Imlil – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate, overnight in Ouarzazate

Leave Marrakech as early as possible to drive towards the High Atlas mountains. Along the way, you’ll be driving through the mountain passage of Tizi n’Tichka that stands at an altitude of 2260m.

There you will witness some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes Morocco offers. After driving through the gorgeous mountains, you’ll arrive in a vast flat plain called the Ounila valley.

There, you’ll visit an imposing UNESCO site called Ksar Ait Ben Haddou. Ait Ben Haddou is an ancient fortified mud-brick village located between the Sahara and Marrakech.

It’s a place known as a Ksar- the North African term for “Berber castle”. This village is one of Morocco’s World Heritage Sites and was used as a set in the TV-series Game of Thrones to portray the slaving city of Yunkai that Daenerys Targaryen laid siege to.

How to get from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou

The distance between Marrakech and Ait Ben Haddou is around 133 km and it takes about 3 hours and a half to reach the mud city.

To get there you’ll have to follow highway N9 towards the South.

There are two main entrances into the mud city. One can be reached by a bridge where you will need to pay a small entrance fee. To reach the second, it is necessary to cross the river using the stepping stones (in the dry season the river is completely dry). There the entrance will be totally free.

After your visit to the old Berber city is over, continue the journey South to reach Ouarzazate and get some rest for the day.

How to get from Ait Ben Haddou to Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is less than half an hour from Ait Ben Haddou by car so getting there is very easy. Continue following highway N9 and you’ll be there in no time.

If you still have time and the energy for it, Ouarzazate has some very interesting studios that were used for many Hollywood movies and they are super interesting to visit.

Where to stay in Ouarzazate 

Here are a few different options we recommend in Ouarzazate:

• Ecolodge La Palmeraie Ouarzazate

At Ecolodge La Palmeraie, you can rent cozy little cabins next to a pool surrounded by palm trees. The environment is very calm and quiet. It’s one of the best places to relax after a long day of driving.

The owners speak many different languages and will be there to answer any questions you could have about Ouarzazate or Morocco in general. They own a majestic peacock that strolls around the cabins during the day.

The buffet breakfast served on location every day is delicious and will leave you filled for day 3 of this itinerary.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Ecolodge La Palmeraie Ouarzazate”

• Hotel Dar Rita

This is one of the best and most affordable Riads in Ouarzazate. The owners Joao and Rita will make you feel at home. They are super helpful, speak many languages and will give you a warm welcome.

The rooms of this Riad are super gorgeous and colorful! Have a look at the pictures here. If you want a taste of luxury without breaking your piggy bank, this is where you should stay.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Hotel Dar Rita”

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Agdz – Draa Valley – Nkob, overnight in Nkob

Today you’ll be exploring the South of Morocco. This part of the country is absolutely magical! No need to hurry in leaving Ouarazazate that morning since the final destination is only two hours away by car. Once you’re ready, start following highway N9 towards Nkob.

This village is known for its 45 Kasbahs or mud castles. It’s a beautiful and unique site in Morocco that showcases the architectural genius of the ancient Berber tribes who lived in the area.

On our way there, we’ll be crossing the Saghro Mountains. Berber villages, mountains, and magnificent oases.

Because the driving time between Ouarzazate and Nkob is relatively short ( around two hours), you can stop in the oases along the way and explore the little villages that you come across on foot at a leisurely pace.

Here is the road from Ouarzazate to Nkob, note that along the way you will have to leave highway N9 and take the junction R108 in Agdz:

Where to stay in Nkob

Nkob is a village that is known for its mud kasbahs and most accommodations in town conserve that lovely charm of the ancient terracotta and mud buildings. Here is a riad we recommend in Nkob that has the traditional architecture of the region:

This beautiful Riad is a haven of peace and the perfect place to relax after a long journey. The owner has a lovely little garden where he grows most of the fresh vegetables he cooks with.

In the evening, the owner and the staff put on a lovely music show for the guests. Riad Nkob is the best place to immerse yourself in the southern Moroccan culture.

There is also a fabulous breakfast served every morning composed of dates, fresh fruits, olives, eggs, and bread.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Riad Nkob”

Day 7: Nkob – Alnif – Rissani – Merzouga (Sahara desert) , overnight in Merzouga

After breakfast, you’ll leave the rocky region of Nkob and start driving towards the desert and the sand dunes of Merzouga . There are plenty of small towns along the way where you can stop to have lunch.

We suggest stopping in Rissani to visit a beautiful mosque .

Here is the road you’ll have to take to reach Rissani from Nkob:

After you visit the mosque, you’ll be very close to Merzouga and you’ll start seeing more and more sand dunes appearing on the side of the road.

This is the road between Rissani and Merzouga:

After you arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon, you’ll hop on some camels and take a 2-hour stroll into the desert. A wonderful dinner and music will await you at your desert camp. After the party is over, prepare yourself to see the stars as you have never seen them before.

Most of the desert camps in Merzouga offer a similar standard package: a camel ride into the desert where the camp is located, a dinner with traditional music, a night in a traditional Berber tent and breakfast the next day.

You could choose some camps from this list or read How to plan a desert trip to Merzouga to find out which desert camps are the best.

Day 8: Exploring the Sahara desert

The 8th day of your trip will be to discover the Sahara Desert. You can wake up early to climb to the highest dune of the desert to witness the sunrise.

After breakfast, the desert camp owner will take you back to town by camel. From there my suggestion for the day is to take a pleasant long walk to a lake where you can see flamingos.

Another cool thing to do in the desert is to rent a board and do some sandboarding. Read this article to find all the cool free activities you can do in Merzouga.

In the afternoon, you’ll go to your hotel in Merzouga where you’ll be able to relax after a day of fun activities. It will also be the ideal place to see an unforgettable sunset over the dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Here are some of the hotels we recommend in Merzouga:

• Auberge Camping La Liberté

Auberge Camping La Liberté has a very good restaurant and a delicious breakfast served every morning. This hotel is located very close to the sand dunes and organizes camel and 4×4 tours in the desert.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Auberge Camping La Liberté”

• Auberge Les Roches

Located right beside the desert of Erg Chebbi, Auberge Les Roches has a beautiful interior courtyard where you will find palm trees and a pool. BBQ facilities are available in the hotel and free Wi-Fi access is provided in public areas.

The guest rooms are decorated with traditional Berber carpets and designs. They all offer either a beautiful view of the sand dunes or of the terrace. Each room has a private bathroom that comes with a shower and a toilet.

The center of Merzouga is a 10-minute walk away from this hotel while you can find an oasis just 20 minutes away.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Auberge Les Roches”

Today you’ll leave Merzouga and visit the famous Todra Gorges and see incredible cliffs that stand at 300 meters high.

You’ll be surrounded by walls that have been carved over the course of millions of years and you’ll get the chance to see a very unique canyon in Morocco.

These huge rock walls attract rock climbers from all around the world who want to ascend the hundreds of routes of solid, reddish limestone. Check out my post about Things to do in the Todra Gorges Tinerhir  to see awesome pictures of the place and find other activities that you can do nearby.

Here is the road from Merzouga to the Todra gorges:

From there you’ll continue your journey north through the Dades Valley or the road of the Thousand Kasbahs as it is also known. You will witness breathtaking landscapes as you head back towards Marrakech.

The final stop for the day will be in Boumalne Dades.

Here is the accommodation we recommend in Boumalne Dades:

La Kasbah De Dades

This stunning hotel is built in a very traditional style. The best part is the view you get from the terrace and the pool. The rooms are very cozy. They’re super clean well decorated and they’re equipped with a fan and a little working desk.

Click to check out rates and availability for “La Kasbah De Dades”

Day 10: Dades Valley – Skoura – Marrakech, departure from Marrakech

After a delicious breakfast, you’ll be heading towards Marrakesh. you’ll follow the beautiful Rose Valley until you reach the great Atlas mountains again.

The road curves along this valley, which is one of the most fertile in the south of Morocco. The valley of the roses is known for its apricots, its roses, and its beautiful traditions that come from the Berber culture.

This is the last day in the south of Morocco before you pass the High Atlas Mountains. The view will be amazing, and you’ll have the opportunity to see many different types of mountain landscapes but it will be a long drive (5 hours).

You’ll arrive in Marrakech right on time to bring the car back to the car rental company if you rented one and explore a bit of the medina.

You could stay in the same accommodation you stayed in on your first day in Marrakech or choose a completely new place.

One week Morocco itinerary to discover the coast and surfing villages of Morocco

Morocco is quickly becoming one of the world’s favorite winter surfing destination. The size of the waves and the ideal weather during winter makes Morocco the perfect destination for a surfing holiday.

After spending many years in Morocco, I can tell you that it’s a surfer’s paradise. There are tons of great surfing beaches near popular cities such as Essaouira , Rabat or Agadir .

I recently wrote a guide to surfing in Morocco , in it I mention all the best villages to surf from and how to get there. You could combine visits to these different surf towns and create your own one-week itinerary to surf in Morocco.

My suggestion is to start from the South in Agadir and make your way towards the North in Rabat or vice versa. 

A sample itinerary would look like this:

Day one – Surfing in Agadir Day two – Surfing in Tamraght and Aourir Day three – Surfing in and near Taghazout Day four – Surfing in Tamri Day five – Surfing in Imsouane Day six – Surfing in Sidi Kaouki Day seven – Surfing in Essaouira

I hope these three Morocco itineraries will help you plan your perfect trip around Morocco. If you have questions or comments concerning any of the destinations mentioned in these itineraries let us know in the comments below. Have a great time in Morocco!

3 thoughts on “Morocco Itinerary – Visit the best places in Morocco in 7 days, 10 days, 14 days or longer!”

This is a great resource. Can you update it with a Rabat-centric itinerary? Thank you!

Amazing Blog, Thank you for sharing your amazing content & Ideas, Pictures about Morocco, Keep posting with us

Thank you Marina!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Morocco Travel Guide: How to prepare and plan your Trip

Planning to travel to Morocco and looking for some trusted travel tips? Well then, read on for an adventure filled plan and our top tips! Morocco is only a four hour plane ride away from Europe – and yet it’s like you’ve just been dropped into a completely different world. Morocco is an ideal travel destination for a road trip , with adventures, oriental flair and a pleasantly warm climate.

We have compiled everything we know from our experience and all our best travel tips for Morocco in this one post so that you can best prepare for your road trip. When is the best time to travel? How safe is a trip to Morocco? How do I get from A to B? You’ll find the answers to these questions and more, in this special travel guide for Morocco. 

1. Pre-travel Tips: Important Facts about Travelling to Morocco

2. arrival tips: getting into morocco, 3. accommodation guide for morocco: where to stay, 4. eating and drinking in morocco, 5. religion and culture: dress and behaviour tips in morocco, 6. security: how safe is morocco to travel, 7. transport guide: road trip through morocco by car, 8. city transport in morocco: taxi tips, 9. travel costs: how expensive is it to travel morocco, 10. photography tips & restriction in morocco, 11. internet & apps for travelling morocco.

What to expect in Morocco

What images come up when you think of Morocco? Probably one that shows the Arabian-night lifestyle in flawless perfection, right? Yes, you can definitely look forward to that when you travel to Morocco. But: Morocco is SO much more than that.

The following three things make this country special and speak for a trip to Morocco:

• Oriental flair: it starts with the colorful markets, continues through the typical cuisine to the hamams and the wonderful hotels (riads): in Morocco you can soak up the oriental way of life from dawn to dusk.
• Landscape : From the Atlas Mountains to gigantic canyons, from the desert to the mountain passes – Morocco’s landscape will take your breath away. We had high expectations before, but we have to admit: it was even better!
• Geographical proximity to Europe : you are in a completely different world within just a few hours from Mainland Europe. No nerve-wracking jet lag, no long-haul flight. A perfect travel destination for anyone who doesn’t want to travel too far.

Do you want to know which sights you shouldn’t miss and where all the highlights are around the country? Then we recommend our detailed blog article, where we show you which places we have traveled to and what you can expect there.

You can read that here: Our Itinerary: All Destinations in Morocco

Best time and season for Travelling to Morocco

You can travel to Morocco all year round , but of course there are months that are better and those that are less suitable. It also depends on which regions of Morocco you want to travel to.

The ideal travel times for a round trip through Morocco are spring (if possible avoid the holiday season, i.e. Easter) and autumn. While it can still be cool in Europe in spring, you can usually expect bright sunshine in Morocco. And you can also spend wonderful late summer days in Morocco in autumn.

We would not recommend midsummer (July and August), especially if you want to see the desert. In addition, sand storms in the desert start brewing between April and October. Sightseeing at 35 degrees in the shade can also become unbearable. You have to expect restrictions during Ramadan , as some restaurants are closed during the day.

Around Christmas and New Year many flee into the warming sun and it gets very crowded in Morocco and accordingly more expensive. If you want to avoid this, you should also avoid this time.

We traveled to Morocco in late February / early March . During the day it was pleasantly warm, sometimes even quite hot in the sun. It cooled off in the evening. Our accommodations were all equipped with heating. Our tip: in the colder months, be sure to find rooms with heating, otherwise the nights will be rather uncomfortably cold.

Travel Guide to Morocco: Our Tip

Although you can find many tips for Morocco on the Internet, such as on our blog, we still recommend that you get a printed travel guide. Here we can highly recommend the Rough Guide Travel Guide. Rough Guide travel guides are well-known by the fact that they are fairly detailed and very well researched.

The new edition of the Morocco Travel Guide by Rough Guide was published in 2019 and is therefore quite up to date. Our conclusion: perfect for anyone travelling to Morocco!

You can buy the guide here: The Rough Guide Morocco

Good news: Austrians and Germans do not need a visa to enter the country. On the plane you will receive an entry card that you must fill out. The border police will take the card and may ask you a few questions. That was it basically.

You can expect the same procedure awaiting you as you leave. Anyone who works in journalism or in another area that could be a thorn in the side of the police should prepare for a somewhat longer question-and-answer game. That was the case with us, but all in all things are relatively relaxed, so don’t worry!

Traditionally, you spend the night in Morocco in so-called riads. Riads are traditional, multi-storey buildings that have a wonderful courtyard and often have a grand roof terrace . From the outside, it is often hard to believe which oasis is hidden behind the gates of a riad.

We swear: Nowhere else in the world have we seen such a high density of grand and stylish accommodation as in Morocco. In larger cities you are literally overwhelmed by the offerings. If possible, we definitely recommend that you stay in a riad. For about 70 to 100 Euros per night you can get a very nice room with breakfast for two people.

Here you will find all our recommendations: Hotel tips for Morocco

In Morocco, people love the combination of sweet and salty , and dried dates, apricots and raisins are used in many dishes. Honestly, we’re massive fans!

Typical of Morocco is the so-called tagine, a dish that is prepared in a clay pot (also called Tagine ) and is often served with couscous. This stew usually consists of meat and vegetables, but there are also meatless options.

Although we liked Moroccan food, to be honest the culinary offerings got a bit boring over time. Especially for vegetarians , you’ll find the same dishes being served, as the selection is unfortunately rather limited, unless you eat out at hip trendy restaurants. Meat is often eaten in Morocco, unfortunately vegetarian dishes are less common on the menu than in some other countries.

An exception is breakfast , which is almost always very bread and carbohydrate-heavy. Breakfast is included in most accommodations. You will almost always be served different dishes, including Moroccan pancakes, bread, jams and homemade yogurt.

As is well known, Islam is the state religion in Morocco. Knowing that in advance will help you adapt to the culture shock faster. Unfortunately, this means, among other things, that the patriarchal structures are very visible. You’ll find mostly men on the streets.

We therefore, especially recommend women not to wear skimpy clothing . Loose blouses, long trousers and long dresses and skirts are more practical. Honestly, as a tourist, you already stand out immediately so it’s more pleasant to be dressed as covered and casually as possible.

There is no obligation to wear a headscarf , but admittedly: even in direct sunlight we like to use a cloth. Exchanging tenderness or PDA in public is a no-go in Morocco.

Good to know: Non-Muslims can only visit two mosques in Morocco – the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca and the tomb mosque of Moulay Ismail in Meknes. But don’t worry: there are beautiful palaces and Koran schools in Morocco that you can visit.

One of the questions we were asked most often: how safe is it to travel around Morocco? First of all, we would advise you to read the most up to date section on the website of your home country’s respective Foreign Ministry Office. In terms of security, this should always be your first point of contact.

However, we will of course also be happy to share our own personal experiences and that is where the good news comes. Nothing bad ever happened to us in Morocco. We had no negative experiences. We were not robbed or harassed. Yes, we probably paid too much for a few things, but that’s about it.

Our specific tips for security:

• Travel as a couple if possible. Of course there are also many who travel through Morocco alone – including women. To be honest, we personally found it very nice to travel as a couple. 
• Avoid the medina at night. The medina (the old town) of some cities consists of very narrow streets. Especially at night, these dark alleys can feel a little shady. Try to avoid walks at night. We recommend this to women traveling alone.
• Do not flaunt your valuables. We typically are the kind of people who are often too lazy to safely stow our (rather expensive) camera gear and instead let it hang loosely around our shoulders instead. Apparently, you shouldn’t make a habit out of this – especially in crowds.
• Don’t be fooled by self-proclaimed guides. At every corner in Marrakech someone will offer to show you the way to “La Place” (the large square). In truth, he wants to take you to his shop to sell you something, or he really shows you the place and then of course charges a good amount. Our tip: If you really get lost, it’s better to ask a woman the right way.
• Cities vs. Rural region: We personally found the men in larger cities (above all in Marrakech) to be much more intrusive and uncomfortable than in rural regions. While, for example, tips are constantly demanded in cities (e.g. for photos), people in the countryside are much more chill about it. We’ll give you more tips for taking photos later in this blog article.

Morocco is a really ideal place to travel with a rental car . There are several reasons for this:

• First of all, the main streets are largely in good condition . Even with a small car you can easily reach most places.
• Traffic is very limited outside of the larger cities. It may be that you don’t see any other cars anywhere.
• There is right-hand traffic in Morocco, so you don’t have to get used to it (unless you’re from NZ, Australia, UK or other Commonwealth Countries)
• Most places are signposted in two languages ​​(English, Arabic).
• The prices for a rental car are comparatively cheap: For our Peugeot 301 we paid around 250 Euros (excluding navigation system) for a week.

Renting a car in Morocco – what should I watch out for?

Provider and deductible.

We booked our rental car through Sunny Cars . We’ve only ever had good experiences with them, because when you book through Sunny Cars you get full insurance including reimbursement of the excess in the event of damage. Sunny Cars acts as an intermediary here: You book your car on the Sunny Cars website and collect it from a local car rental company (e.g. Hertz, Europcar, etc.).

What does a deductible mean? In some countries, this is also called the ‘excess’ or ‘deposit’. e.g. If you drive a dent into the car, you will receive a refund on any additional costs incurred with that accident from Sunny Cars. However, if you book the rental car “with a deductible/excess/deposit” (this is the case with many other platforms), you have to pay a certain amount (usually a few hundred Euros) in the event of damage, which you won’t get back.

You can search for cheap rental cars (fully comprehensive) here: Sunny Cars

Is it safe to drive through Morocco with a rental car?

Honestly, we had our hesitations at first, but it was absolutely no problem ! The streets are mostly in very good condition. There is little traffic. We have never met any dubious people. We only avoided driving at night, but mostly because it is easy to miss a pothole.

Other tips for renting & driving in Morocco

We are happy to rent the car ourselves at the airport, because there is usually less traffic than in the stations in the city and you can get used to the traffic conditions in peace. We picked up our car from Marrakech on the day of departure for two reasons: Firstly, you don’t need a car in Marrakech so we were able to save costs. Secondly, as soon as you drive towards the medina, the traffic is horrendous. We didn’t want to do that to ourselves.

We bought a navigation device , but would not recommend it. It was quite expensive (approx. 12 Euros per day) and we didn’t find much benefit from having it. In addition, we couldn’t find a lot of the places in the navigation system and had to trust our own orientation or the travel guide map.We’d recommend you to better download an offline app for your smartphone. It makes a lot more sense.

An international driver’s license is usually not necessary when renting and we were never asked for it. Nevertheless, we recommend that you get one for insurance reasons alone. You can easily get your international driver’s license for around 15 Euros at the ÖAMTC (Austria) or ADAC (Germany).

In larger cities, you should avoid the car, which saves you time and stress. It is best to park the rental car as close as possible to the accommodation (e.g. in a guarded parking lot or at best at the hotel car park) and switch to taxis for the duration of the stay or cover the distances by foot.

Police controls in Morocco

What many stories are circulating on the Internet are the police controls in Morocco: Yes, it is true. They are everywhere and you are likely to be controlled if you travel to Morocco in your own car.

Our personal experience: We never had a negative experience with the Moroccan police. Even when we were stopped after crossing a stop line during an overtaking manoeuvre, the policeman was very understanding (“French campervans are always slow, I understand that.”)

However, corruption is definitely an issue: we managed to negotiate the amount of our penalty down by half. Otherwise, the control was quite heavily regulated.

Even in the larger cities ( Marrakech , Fez , Casablanca etc.) you can do most of the walking . For longer distances, it is common to take a taxi. A basic distinction is made in Morocco between Petit Taxi and Grand Taxi.

• The Petit Taxi (small taxi) is – as the name suggests – a very small car that can pass through narrow streets.
• A Grand Taxi tends to be used for longer distances, i.e. between two cities or for destinations that are slightly outside the city.

The fare is generally determined by a taximeter, but of course they will try to convince you that it is not currently working. Therefore, you should either ask another driver or negotiate the fare in advance if they try to pull the ‘taximeter trick’ on you.

Prices vary from city to city – depending on how much people are used to tourism. In Marrakech, for example, you can expect a short distance ride to cost 50 Dirhams or more. However, you should really pay a maximum of 30 Dirhams. In Casablanca, we often only paid 20 Dirhams for a longer distance. Also, you can expect a surcharge at night.

Currency & Paying in Morocco

Morocco’s currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). 1 Euro corresponds to about 10.70 Dirham (as of early 2021). With the prices written in Morocco, you simply mentally omit a zero at the end to get the approximate amount of Euros.

You can easily withdraw money from ATMs . If you are from Austria, make sure that the GeoControl function is deactivated at your bank before you leave. You can usually do that online.

Travel expenses in Morocco: price level and price examples

What does it cost in Morocco …?

• Double room in a beautiful riad in Marrakech: 70 to 100 Euros per night
• Car rental for a week: 200 to 250 Euros
• Taxi ride in Marrakech or Fez: 20 to 30 Dirhams
• Dinner for two in a nice restaurant: 200 Dirhams
• Entry to the Majorelle Gardens in Marrakech: 80 Dirhams
• Entry to the Bahia Palace in Marrakech: 50 Dirhams

We would describe the price levels in Morocco as somewhat lower than in Austria or Germany. But don’t expect to have a super cheap trip in Morocco.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not only seen as desirable in Morocco for many services, but is actually expected . In restaurants, 5 to 10 percent is appropriate. We would also leave the service staff from our accommodation around 10 to 20 Dirham per day in the room.

If you ask for directions or if you take a picture of someone, he or she may also ask for money. We would also then give about 10 to 20 Dirhams.

Morocco is a paradise for photography enthusiasts . And yet there are a few things to consider: Especially if you want to take pictures of people (and Moroccans are really photogenic), you should always ask for permission . In larger cities where people are used to tourists, you will almost always be asked to tip if you want to take pictures of someone.

An extreme example is the Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of people who earn their daily bread as a photo model. Unfortunately, you are often asked for money here, in a not overly kind approach.

On our trip, we preferred another way to get great portraits: We would simply buy something from someone and then asked the person for a photo.

It should be borne in mind that in Islam, the depiction of people is prohibited or not welcome. You should keep this restriction in mind when taking pictures, especially if you are in highly religious areas. If in doubt, we would advise against taking a photo and retreat rather than attract attention.

Under no circumstances should you photograph military facilities and uniformed officers (police, security guards, etc.) (thanks to Ricky for the tip).

Mobile Internet: SIM card in Morocco

Nowadays, most of us are used to being online while traveling. Therefore, we would highly recommend that you buy a local SIM card for your smartphone when you get there. It is a great way to navigate from A to B and can also be used to search for tips on restaurants or sights.

You can buy the SIM card directly at the airport. It is important that your smartphone is unlocked for all networks (i.e. not limited to one provider). The SIM card is usually setup and activated directly by the staff – without any problems. The price will depend on the data volume, but generally speaking SIM cards are quite cheap.

Network coverage in Morocco is good, although there are places where you don’t have a network. Especially in sparse, barren regions between the cities you often have to do without reception. However, the reception is very good in the cities themselves.

Also WiFi is quite widespread in Morocco: the vast majority of hotels offer WiFi. However, the speed leaves somethings to be said.

Helpful apps for your trip to Morocco

• Google Translate (download the French version so you can use it offline): Especially in rural areas, you’ll find many speak little to no English, but instead speak French.
• maps.me or CityMaps2Go (download the Morocco map so that you can also use it offline): perfect for marking individual sights and restaurants.
• Maps app (iPhone) or Google Maps: Great for navigating from A to B.
• Happy Cow: great for finding vegetarian restaurants nearby.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, then we will receive a small commission. This will not change the prices for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Do you have any other travel tips for Morocco? Let us know in the comments. We look forward to reading about your experience!

You might also be interested in this

Marrakech Travel Guide: Travel Tips and our Honest Review

Fez Travel Guide: Best Sights and Tips for the Oldest Medina in Morocco

Casablanca Travel Guide: How to Spend the Perfect Day

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Policy

Morocco Travel Blog

Morocco is a beautiful country located in North Africa. In fact, Morocco is one of the most popular destinations in Africa since it’s pretty close to Europe and you can fly there easily. It has something for everyone – backpackers, couples, solo travelers, luxury travelers, etc.

Morocco offers several experiences – from ancient cities to camel trekking, from Sahara dunes to mountain tops, from surfing to epic food experiences – you should find something that suits your needs and interests.

If you’re planning your first trip to Morocco, this guide should answer any questions you may have. We’ll talk about travel facts, the best time to visit Morocco, the best destinations, travel costs, travel essentials and how to prepare for your trip.

Best Time to Visit Morocco

Morocco is a big country and depending on your destination, you may be facing different types of weather conditions. Morocco has four seasons that vary a little depending on where you are. We decided to split this section into four sections to help you understand the seasons:

Top Destinations in Morocco

Morocco Travel Tips & Costs

In this section, you’ll find general information on costs and how to prepare for your trip. Finally, you will find a table that will provide an overview of cost and options depending on your travel budget.

Accommodation

In Morocco, you’ll find several options when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re a budget traveler or not, you will be able to find options. Although, note that Morocco isn’t super cheap. You can find dorms starting at $6 per night.

When it comes to food, you can find different types of restaurants. An average meal in a restaurant would be around MAD 50. Obviously, you may find elegant restaurants around the country and you can pay more if you wish to. If you’re traveling on a budget, you should cook your own food to save money.

Some activities such as markets and beach bumming are free. Although, if you’re planning on relaxing in a local hammam, going surfing, learning to cook traditional Moroccan food or going camping in the desert, you will have to pay for it.  You can browse activities in Morocco here t o have an idea of the costs.

Transportation

In general, it’s pretty easy to get around Morocco. You can either fly, take a bus or a train to reach your destinations. Taxis are a cheap and easy way of getting around too. You can get your own private driver or hop on the back of a shared one.

Safety in Morocco

Overall, traveling around Morocco is okay. Of course, you should always lock your valuables especially if you’re staying in a hostel .

You most likely won’t find yourself in physical danger if you use common sense. Scams, theft, pickpocketing, and harassment are more likely to happen though. Many tourists have bad experiences. Traveling Morocco requires you to be alert and careful. Always remember to keep your valuables off-sight in crowded places. You can avoid the most common scams by doing your research, and knowing how much basic things, like taxi rides, should cost. In markets, you may feel a bit harassed, so don’t enter a shop if you’re not planning on buying anything since the merchants may try to block you the exit.

As a female traveler, it’s good to be careful and ask a friend to join you when walking at night.

Remember that Morocco is a conservative country and you should always dress appropriately. Keep your legs, arms and shoulders covered to avoid any unwanted attention.

Overall, I didn’t have any problems while I was in Morocco. I was traveling with my partner, but I felt safe.

What to Pack for Morocco

Apart from the travel essentials, here are the things you should absolutely bring along with you in Morocco. Click on the images to shop on Amazon. 

Universal adapter

Quick-dry towel

Selfie stick

Visa for Morocco

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa, but usually, you can get a free entry up to 90 days.

You can verify your visa requirements here .

Preparing Your Trip to Morocco

Browse flights on Skyscanner to find deals.

Go To Skyscanner

Book your travel insurance for as little as $42/month.

Go To SafetyWing

Booking.com

Find accommodation anywhere in the world.

Go To Booking.com

Check the visa requirements and apply for a visa if needed.

Go To iVisa

Worldpackers

Volunteer abroad in exchange for free accommodation.

Go To Worldpackers

Book transfers, tours, and activities in advance.

Go To Viator

Morocco eSIM Plans

It’s hard to find a good data plan when you’re traveling. You have to research the best deals, go to a store, and hope they have a prepaid SIM card for travelers and tourists.

And if they don’t? You could be without service for the rest of your trip. Not only is that frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming.

eSIMs are the solution to your travel woes. With an eSIM plan, you can stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, there are no contracts or cancellation fees, so you can change your plan whenever you want.

If you’re looking for an eSIM plan while in Morocco, then be sure to check out the providers below. They all offer great plans that will keep you connected while you’re there.

$3 OFF with promo code: MELISS2943

190+ countries and regions

Read Review

5% OFF with promo code: ABROKENBACKPACK

130+ countries and regions

100+ countries and regions

Morocco Blog Posts

Is Marrakech Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

Marrakech is a vibrant and colorful city with rich culture and exciting sights. So if you're seeking to explore an exotic destination, this Moroccan city is a top choice. However, many people avoid traveling to Marrakech because of safety concerns. Sure, it's not the...

Morocco Internet And Wifi: What You Need To Know

Are you planning a trip to Morocco and want to stay connected? If so, then you’ll need to consider how you will access the internet while in Morocco. WiFi is widely available throughout the country, but there are some things that travelers should know before they go....

Morocco SIM Card: Everything You Need To Know

Want to get a Morocco SIM card for your upcoming trip? In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in Morocco in person and online. We'll also discuss prepaid SIM cards for Morocco and eSIM plans. Before you read this guide, you may wonder if you actually...

The 5 Best Places To Live In Morocco 

Curious about the best place to live in Morocco? Morocco is a good place to live, and many expats decided to move there in the past few years. If you're looking to move to a vibrant country with rich history and culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and idyllic weather,...

How Many Days In Morocco Is Enough?

The North African country of Morocco fascinates visitors from all over the world with its incredible diversity. In this post, we will help you figure out exactly how many days in Morocco is enough to get a true taste of the Moroccan culture! With the Atlantic Ocean to...

How To Get To The Sahara Desert

When I think of Morocco, I think about the Sahara Desert and this is exactly why I wanted to visit Morocco so badly. Planning your trip? Here’s what to expect from a trip to the Sahara Desert and more importantly, how to plan it the right way.  There are many...

Perfect 5 Days In Morocco Itinerary

Planning a short trip to Morocco? If you’re heading to this incredible country for a few days, here’s what you should do to make the most of your trip. In this 5 day-itinerary in Morocco, you’ll get the best - as well as a fun Sahara desert experience. Before we dive...

24 Hours in Tangier, The Bride of the North

Top 12 Things to Do in Morocco

60 Female Artists Transform Rabat Biennale

Tasting Marrakech, An Urban Food Tour

What’s a Tajine Anyway?

Bread and Morocco: A Love Affair

3 Moroccan Hidden Coastal Towns to Visit

Discovering Islamic Design in Morocco

A Design Lovers Guided Tour of Marrakech

Top 5 Reasons to Discover Morocco on a Luxury Tour with Private Guides

Morocco’s top 10 annual music festivals.

24 Hours in Casablanca, Morocco’s Urban Jungle

Morocco News

First Delegation of Moroccan Muslim Scholars to Co-Host Conference in Israel

Moroccan Arts Exhibition To Showcase at Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid

Abderrazzak Benchaâbane’s Bespoke Perfume Making Workshop in Marrakech

Worlds’ Earliest Known Iconic Jewelry Discovered in Essaouira, Morocco

Morocco Collaborates with IRENA to Accelerate Hydrogen Transition & Boost Renewable Green Energy

Morocco Leads in Guiding Women on How to Use the Sun’s Energy for Climate-resilient Development

Rabat Contemporary Art Museum Hosts Eugene Delacroix’s Memories of a trip to Morocco, A first in the Arab World

TRAVEL TIPS

Best Morocco Private Tours Trip Advisor 2023 Winner

Sephardic Music in Morocco, A Legacy of Jewish Culture

Leading Morocco Travel Agent, Customized Private Tour Planner

Unveiling Tangier’s Hidden Gems: Discovering the Jewish Heritage Sites

Indulge in Luxury and Comfort with Morocco Private Tours, Trip Advisor’s 2023 Top Choice

Moroccan arts & entertainment.

The 12 Best Books to Read About Morocco

The New Villa Harris Museum of Tangier’s Legendary 19th Century Collection

Moroccan Visual Artist Chama Mechtaly Builds Aesthetic Bridges Fostering the Abraham Accords

New Tangier, A Moroccan Designer Embracing Traditional Technique

Paris Photography Exhibition, Juifs du Maroc, Showcases Imagery of Departed Jews of Morocco

Morocco Travel Blog  is an online lifestyle and leisure magazine highlighting Moroccan news, Moroccan Arts & Culture, Moroccan Food and Drink along with  Morocco Travel  and Tours for our readers. The news, stories, and photographs featured on Morocco Travel Blog cover all things Quintessentially Moroccan. Moroccan architecture, Moroccan restaurants, Moroccan Cuisine, Moroccan Festivals, and Events are covered through our lively and entertaining heartfelt stories about  Morocco Travel . The experiences of Morocco Travel can be discovered on a  Private Morocco Tour  through our sister tourism company  Travel Exploration Morocco  which offers Private, Guided Tours with a keen focus on Jewish Heritage Tours, Family Tours, Imperial City Tours and Sahara Desert Adventure Travel. Morocco Travel Blog offers an insiders guide to experiental travel and tour experiences.

What to pack for a trip to Morocco: The definitive guide

Morocco wasn’t on my radar – at all – until a fellow traveller, a woman who had far more travel experience than me, told me that the best trip that she’d ever done was Intrepid’s Best of Morocco tour.

She said this as we glided over the Indian countryside, near Jaipur, in a hot air balloon early one morning, which we both agreed was incredible. She clearly had some credibility, and in that instant, I knew exactly where I would be going next.

I went in February 2019, and over the next 15 days, on that exact same trip, I was awe-struck by the country’s beauty and the richness of its culture.

With my Intrepid group at Todra Gorge

But there were a few surprises along the way. I had imagined Morocco as majority desert, but it’s so much more. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can go from snow-capped mountains to sparkling seas in a matter of hours, and the climate changes as quickly as the scenery.

And while you will do what every traveller to Morocco dreams of doing – explore its ancient medinas – you might also find yourself exploring some unexpected natural wonders. So, to make the most of your trip, you will want to pack a few key items. Here’s some suggestions:

Bring outdoor activity essentials

Morocco’s rural areas are incredibly diverse and one of the best things about this trip is seeing what lies beyond its most well-known cities. If you are looking for a little adventure on your travels, Morocco is where you will find it, whether it be riding camels through the dunes or mules up a mountain path, hiking to a Berber camp at the top of the Todra Gorge, or trekking to a Muslim shrine some 2300m above sea level.

Camel riding was a highlight!

This trip will not disappoint! Come prepared – pack:

• Runners with good grip – Lightweight hikers will also work, but runners (sneakers) are all around more convenient for the whole trip. Avoid slip-ons.
• Moisture-wicking t-shirts – Chances are, you will break a sweat.
• Day pack – You will need this for day hikes, and to pack essentials for overnight stays at the Sahara camp and at the guest house in Aroumd. Bring one that is a decent size and that has comfortable straps.
• Band-Aids – I never leave home without them. Blisters always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. I also keep a bottle of Tylenol on hand wherever I go.
• Portable phone charger – This way, you’ll never miss a good pic.
• You own water bottle – To minimise single-use plastics.

BROWSE INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP TOURS IN MOROCCO

On day 11, our group woke up to snow. That’s right. SNOW. Granted, they were just little flakes and we were near the base of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in the High Atlas Mountains. But, still!

Snowy Toubkal!

As a Canadian very much used to long and frigid winters, cooler temperatures are not a big deal but even I was surprised at how cold a few of the nights were in Morocco – obviously in the mountains, but also around Midelt and at the Sahara camp.  You don’t want to be cold on your trip, so especially if you are going to be travelling in the winter months (November to March), bring these:

• Gloves – No one wants cold hands (and these will be very helpful when riding those mules!).
• Tuque – A surprisingly popular item in Morocco, this type of hat will come in handy in the mountains.
• Wind and water-resistant jacket – Bring one that has a removable fleece or wool liner (or bring two separate pieces). Having the option to layer – or de-layer – throughout the day is key.
• Long sleeve t-shirt(s) – Again, layer, layer, layer.
• Thermal underwear – Ladies, leggings will also work. On the coldest nights I layered two pairs along with my legwarmers, which if you have some, you might want to pack as well.
• Thermal socks – Bring at least one pair for your night at the Sahara camp. You will not be able to resist feeling that sand on your toes, but when the sun goes down, it gets cold fast and you will want something cozy on your feet.
• Neck warmer – Save some space in your pack by bringing this instead of a typical knit scarf. Or, take advantage of the many textile shops along your route. I picked a scarf up from a roadside vendor at the Tizi n Tichka, the highest mountain pass in North Africa, to ward off the chill while enjoying the spectacular view on a very windy morning. It’s a true souvenir.

Worst case, if you do forget something important, Morocco has a chain of affordable sports and outerwear stores called Triathlon. Your guide will know it and will likely have no problem stopping there if you ask.

Wearing a djellaba, a traditional robe

READ MORE: 10 EXPERIENCES EVERY TRAVELLER SHOULD HAVE IN MOROCCO

Expect some serious sun

It is said that Morocco is ‘the cold country with the hot sun’ and it’s true.  Daytime is lovely. Just days before the snow, we had been lounging poolside at the kasbah in the oasis at the Todra Gorge. And the following day, we would be seaside in Essaouira, soaking up the sun as we explored the old city. We were getting it all. Again, layers are key to managing temperature changes but here’s a few specific items you will want to slip into your pack:

• Sunscreen – Don’t be fooled by the occasional cold night. Much of Morocco enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and the sun is strong everywhere, so you want to protect your skin. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you might want to bring a hat.
• Lip balm – The eastern part of the country is arid. It’s the Sahara!
• Sunglasses – For obvious reasons.
• Sandals – Don’t leave home without a backup pair of footwear! But do bring something with good support because there is a lot of walking on this trip.

Watching the sun set in Chefchaouen

Pack with modesty in mind

Morocco is a conservative Muslim country, and you will notice that the clothing people wear is neither revealing nor meant to attract attention. Dressing appropriately is a wonderful way to show respect for the country you are visiting, and you will want to follow suit.

Gentlemen, the formula for you is quite simple: pants and a shirt.

Ladies, you need to be a little more mindful, but honestly, it will save you some unwanted attention.

READ MORE: MEET ZINA, THE INTREPID MANAGER FIGHTING FOR GENDER EQUALITY IN MOROCCO

Ladies in Fes

Here’s some key items to bring:

• Cardigan or wrap sweater – Take a cue from the local women and bring one that covers your rear. It seems to be a wardrobe staple.
• Pants – You need these for public places. Skip the shorts and keep the leggings (and anything else that bares too much skin) for private group activities and travel time.
• Mid-length or maxi dress with a fitted long sleeve t-shirt – Wear your fitted t-shirt underneath your dress and you’ve got the perfect combo for exploring any medina.

And for those moments when you just feel like being a little more incognito, slip on your sunnies.

Sunglasses are always a good idea

A few final tips

Laundry service is available at the hotels in Fes and Essaouira, where you will stay for two nights. Fees range between five to ten dirhams per piece of clothing, so you can pack knowing that having your laundry done will be an option.

As well, for most of the trip, you will be travelling by private van. Don’t take this an invitation to over-pack but do rest easy that with all that you should bring, Intrepid has made it very easy for you to focus on enjoying Morocco, and not worry too much about your baggage.

Now, as they say in Morocco all the time, yallah, let’s go!

More useful pre-trip reading

Intrepid Travel has a wealth of resources available for anyone planning a trip to Morocco. Check 7 handy guides out below:

• Tips and advice for first-time travellers to Morocco
• A guide to Morocco’s 10 tastiest street foods
• How to ride a camel like a pro in Morocco
• What it’s like to travel in Morocco during Ramadan
• What it’s like as a solo female traveller in Morocco
• 5 beaches in Morocco you won’t want to miss
• An essential guide to visiting hammams in Morocco

Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Check out Intrepid’s range of small group adventures in Morocco.

(Image credits, from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, Lani Innes x4, Intrepid Travel x3.)

Feeling inspired?

A Canadian, Lani Innes works as a policy analyst in the federal public service. She resides in Gatineau, Quebec with her two sons, their dog and their budgie. A visit to Costa Rica in her late teens sparked a wanderlust that took her to the Caribbean, Mexico, Peru and Spain in her younger years, and later to the United Kingdom and France through work. Her favourite cities – so far! – are London and Miami, and going forward, she has firm plans to fill every page in her passport.

You might also like

5 places to escape the crowds in italy..., is australia safe everything you need to know, 10 fun facts you might not know about..., exploring the world through tea, 12 facts you probably don’t know about guatemala, the 7 best places to go on a..., 5 reasons to visit sri lanka in the..., why 2024 is the best year to see..., yellowstone vs yosemite: which national park to visit, 6 unique experiences you can have in el..., from delhi to udaipur, here are the five....

NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBERS

An award-winning travel blog , our community seeks adventure, culture, Inspire and lifestyle. Explore our site before you explore Morocco -- find the best tips on taking the trip you’ve always desired.

Recent Posts

10 Essential Things To Know Before Your Sahara Desert Tour​

Amazing Moroccan Shared Tour | Best Offer

Morocco tours (desert tours), popular posts, book & contact.

Top Travel Guides

Moroccan Desert – Erg Chebbi Dunes & Sahara

Moroccan Souvenirs – Unique Products & Souvenirs To Pick Up In Morocco| HD Photos

Travel inspiration, moroccan travel videos.

• Boating Holidays
• Asia & Pacific
• Australia & New Zealand
• Central America
• Indonesia & Indian Ocean
• Middle East
• Scandinavia
• South America
• Business Travel
• Culinary Travel
• Wellness Travel
• Golf Travel
• Travel Style
• Travel Gear
• Travel Fashion
• Real Estate
• Destination Weddings
• Fishing Holidays
• Tricks & Hacks
• Travel News
• #WHERETONEXT
• Read All the Issues
• Working with DRIFT Travel
• Submit Your Photos to DRIFT Travel
• DRIFT Travel Magazine Media Kit

Trip to Morocco, what should you plan?

A journey to Morocco promises an unforgettable adventure filled with vibrant culture. Mesmerize landscape and tantalize cuisine. Whether you’re drawn to the souk of Marrakech. The serene beauty of the Sahara Desert or the historic allure of Fez. Planning your trip to Morocco requires careful consideration to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your Moroccan escapade. that car rental companies operating in 11 cities

Morocco’s Diversity:

Morocco is situated in North Africa, the land of strike diversity. the snow-cap peak of the Atlas Mountain to the golden sand of the Sahara Desert. from medina to coastal town. This country offers an array of experiences to suit every traveler’s taste.

Best Time to Visit:

Morocco boasts a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit depends on your preference and plan the activity. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered ideal with pleasant temperature and fewer crowd. Summer (June to August) can be scorching particularly in inland areas. While winter (December to February) bring cooler temperatures, especially in the mountainous region.

Essential Destinations:

1. marrakech:.

Known as the “Red City” for its distinctive building. Marrakech is a sensory delight. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alley of the medina. Where vibrant souk brim with spice, textile, and handicraft. Don’t miss the iconic Jamaal el-Fnaa square. Where snake charmer, street performer, and food stall. Create a lively atmosphere.

Step back in time in the ancient city of Fez. Home to the world’s largest car-free urban area. The medina of Fes el-Bali. Wander through its maze-like street adorned with ornate mosque madras and palace. Be sure to visit the tanneries. Where leather has been dyed, use an age-old method for centuries.

3. Chefchaouen:

The Rif Mountain Chefchaouen is renowned for its striking blue-wash building. Creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Stroll through its charm street, browse artisanal shops and hike to the nearby Rif Mountain for a breath take view.

4. Sahara Desert:

A trip to Morocco would be incomplete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Sahara Desert. Embark on desert safari to witness the majestic dune of Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga. Spend night under the starlit sky at desert camp to immerse yourself in Berber culture and enjoy the traditional music and cuisine.

Practical Considerations:

1. visa requirements:.

Most visitors to Morocco do not require a visa to stay up to 90 days. However, it is essential to check the specific requirements based on your nationality before travel.

2. Health and Safety:

Ensure you’re up-to-date with routine vaccination and consider vaccination for disease like hepatitis A and typhoid. Exercise caution in crowd areas and be vigilant against petty theft. Drink bottle water and avoid consuming tap water to prevent gastrointestinal issue.

3. Cultural Etiquette:

Respect local custom and tradition particularly in religious site. Dress modestly especially in rural areas and religious site. ask for permission before taking photos of people.

4. Currency and Language:

The official currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD), and Arabic and Berber are the official languages. However French is widely spoken, especially in urban areas frequented by tourists.

Conclusion:

A trip to Morocco is a voyage of discovery. Where ancient tradition blends seamlessly with modern influence with the plan ahead and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture. You’ll create memories to last a lifetime. explore imperial city to camel trek in the desert. Morocco offers a myriad of experiences that will captivate and inspire every traveler. So pack your bag, open your heart to adventure and prepare to be enchanted by the land of Morocco.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Virgin Limited Edition Welcomes Finch Hattons: Expanding Luxury with a Kenyan Safari Adventure

Five surprising facts about Sierra Leone: Why travelers should visit this undiscovered African gem in 2024  

Stylish Luxury Eco Lodge Stays in Kenya

Privacy overview.

Wyndham and Decameron Team Up to Expand All-Inclusive Offerings

We're tracking Maryland primary election races minute-by-minute. Watch LIVE coverage 10-11 p.m. on WJLA 24/7 News & 11-11:30 p.m. on 7News.

• VOTER GUIDE
• ELECTION RESULTS
• LIVE COVERAGE

Top 2024 Destinations: Explore Morocco with Intrepid Travel

by Good Morning Washington

WASHINGTON (7News) — Good Morning Washington is thrilled to be partnering with Intrepid Travel to take our views on an unforgettable journey through Morocco. As we kick off our weeklong Spotlight on Morocco, Kidd O'Shea sits down with James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel, to discuss everything from adventure travel to how Intrepid prioritizes connecting travelers with local communities. Find your perfect itinerary at intrepidtravel.com !

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Top Things to do in Motril, Spain

When you book a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, you'll get to visit stunning ports like Motril, Spain . This Spanish city sits right on the Mediterranean coast, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and sandy beaches where you can recline and take in the sun and salty, fresh air. There's also a lot to do in Motril, whether you enjoy taking a hike through nature or delving into a city's rich history and culture.

Here are some of the top things to do on a cruise to Motril, Spain that you can enjoy when you cruise with Norwegian.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Mediterranean cruises .

Go Green - A Sustainable Tropical Corner

The Go Green - A Sustainable Tropical Corner offers a chance to learn more about sustainable farming and methods for protecting the environment while taking part in agriculture. During this activity, you'll journey to a private estate on Costa Tropical, which is an area that's shielded from the coastal wind. Here, you'll tour the farm and get to see huge varieties of plants, including avocados, mangos, and cherimoyas, which are special local apples. Once you finish your tour, you'll go to the coastal village of Almuñecar, where you can visit St. Michael's Castle, a stunning relic from the Middle Ages.

Nazari Gardens & Winery Visit

If you're a fan of vintage wines and beautiful gardens, you'll love the Nazari Gardens & Winery Visit excursion. During this four-hour tour, you'll explore the Nazari Gardens, one of the last Muslim gardens you can find in Spain. Here, you'll notice sensational blooms in every color you could imagine, with many flowers producing strong, beautiful smells. After the garden, you'll visit the historic Bodega Señorio de Nevada to tour the winery, where people have been making wine since ancient Roman times. You'll enjoy vintages and tapas at the winery, including local favorites made with the famous native tempranillo grape.

RELATED CRUISES: 10-Day Europe From Rome to Lisbon: Italy, France, Spain & Gibraltar 12-Day Mediterranean from Lisbon to Barcelona: Spain & Morocco 7-Day Mediterranean From Athens to Lisbon: Malta & Alicante

Casa De Los Bates & Almuñecar

The Casa De Los Bates & Almuñecar transports you back to the 19th century as you tour a coastal Spanish village and a luxurious historical estate. First, you'll visit the Casa de los Bates, where you'll tour the grounds and get lost among the twisting garden paths. Here, you can bask in the majesty of native flowers, kentia palms, and trees that have stood for centuries.

After the estate, you'll drive to Almuñecar, which is a quaint village on the Spanish coast. Whether you want to relax in one of the plazas, tour St. Michael's Castle, or recline by the sea, you'll have a wonderful time in this idyllic town.

A Glimpse of Granada

You won't be limited to just Motril when you stop in this port, as excursions like A Glimpse of Granada will take you to all the most exciting Spanish sites. During this excursion, you'll visit the city of Granada, first enjoying a scenic drive along the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Aplujarras Mountains. In the city, you'll traverse winding paths and view historic remnants of the old city, taking in Granada's rich history. Next, you'll visit Capilla Real and the Cathedral of Granada, both of which showcase the city's historical and impressive beauty.

The final stop on this tour is the Renaissance Cathedral, which is known around the world for its breathtaking exterior and ornate decorations inside, covered in white and gold. With roots stretching back to 1521, you'll be able to feel the history in the cathedral's walls, walking the paths that 16th-century citizens once did. Fans of Baroque architecture will be especially excited by the intricate facade designed by Alonso Cano.

Andalusian Village Life & Traditional Tapas

For a taste of the local culture in Spain, there's the Andalusian Village Life & Traditional Tapas excursion. This activity provides an immersive experience that lets you take in all the whimsy of a small Mediterranean village. First, you'll drive down the Andalusian countryside and enjoy views of mountains and small villages. You'll stop at Alfarnate, where you'll tour olive groves and find countless other plants, like almonds and chickpeas. This tour also gives a detailed look into the history of Alfarnate, including tours of the Church of Santa Ana and its striking Mudéjar tower.

Next, you'll take another drive to Alfarnatejo, where you'll take a tour of a traditional Spanish home. While you're there, you'll get to enjoy a wine tasting and a Spanish meal that will excite your tastebuds. You'll likely even meet local residents and their families during your visit as you explore the home and your meal.

Gourmet Tour - The Treasure Caves & Wine Tasting

The Gourmet Tour - The Treasure Caves & Wine Tasting excursion is the perfect activity for food lovers who want to sample all the local cuisine in Motril. Before your meal, you'll get to explore the Treasure Caves, a network of caves that used to sit underwater. Here, you can admire Paleolithic wall art and search for buried treasure. You might even catch a glimpse of an underground lake, a remnant of the caves' time under the sea.

Next, you'll stop at the Valle Niza restaurant for wine and tapas, an establishment praised for its delicious food and drink. You'll enjoy local favorites like confit cod, ratatouille, and coconut ice cream. Each course will come with an expertly paired glass of wine, giving you the chance to appreciate all the tastes of Motril.

Don't forget to sign up for emails to get the latest cruise deals and special offers delivered right to your inbox.