Morocco is the ultimate cultural and adventure destination, from exploring bustling cities, going on a desert adventure, climbing mountains, or surfing on beautiful beaches – there are so many activities for all travellers.
Best Morocco Tour Operators
Travel in Morocco
Verdant valleys in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains, long empty beaches under the sun, bustling spice and oriental markets are what this adventure is all about. See the Jamna el Fna square in the exotic city of Marrakesh, where snake charmers and storytellers compete for space with jugglers.
Explore the maze of souks or markets where almost anything can be found. For a complete change of scenery, book a trip which heads up into the High Atlas Mountains, over winding passes more than 3000 metres high, to the valley of Ait Bougamez.
Berber farmers plough the fields between almond and apple orchards and women gather grass and herbs for the cows to eat. It is possible to visit a Berber family for the day, take a mule trek to see the famous dinosaur tracks, or cool down after the heat with a gorge walk.
Across the dusty plain from Marrakesh is the seaside town of Essaouira. Some itineraries include relaxing here for two days with opportunities to take a camel ride along the beach, or try surfing on the Atlantic waves. For a change from the beach, why not visit the city and explore the thyul wood souks.
Top Places to See in Morocco
- Marrakesh
- Jamma el Fna
- Atlas Mountains
- D’Ouzoud Waterfalls
- Kasbah
- Essaouira, Agadir and beaches
- Casablanca
- Fes
- Chefchaouen
- Talassemtane National Park
Popular Activities
Camel Trekking in the Sahara
Camel treks are a popular option as you go further inland. Marrakesh is the most common point of departure and tour operators and guides are easily arranged. You can take treks for 2-5 days, and the trips often include food and camping in the desert. On the longer trips, you will stop in Merzouga and Erfoud, where picturesque views of the Sahara have made this a popular destination for filmmakers. Word of warning: camels are not the most comfortable mode of transport!
Trekking the Atlas Mountains
The snow-capped Atlas Mountains contain the largest peak in North Africa and they provide some serious hiking opportunities. Summer is the best time for going on a trek and there are many places to begin the journey. A popular option is to arrange for a guide in Marrakesh and then take a van to the trailhead. An organised group tour is recommended, especially if you are unfamiliar with the terrain.
Morocco Travel Guide
Weather & Best Time to Go
Morocco is scorching hot in summer months (June to mid-September), especially in the south, near the Sahara (funny, that). The best time to visit is spring or autumn (March-May or late September-November). Winters are mild, but pack a light jacket to ward off night-time chills.
Food & Drink
Moroccan food, undoubtedly benefitting from the country’s mediterranean climate, is decidedly delicious. Cous-cous, small balls of wheat that are often served with meat and vegetables, may be Morocco’s most famous export, but there is a lot more on offer. Tajine dishes, which involve braised meats and vegetables, are slow cooked to perfection.
Try different combinations like chicken with olives and lemon, or lamb with almonds and dates. Most meals are served with a delicious flat bread that you can use to soak up the rich broth that meat and vegetables are cooked in. Brochettes of meat are also a common dish and in coastal areas you will be able to get fresh fish grilled right in front of you.
Mint tea is the national drink and it is easy to see why: fresh mint leaves and a heap of sugar is a great combination! Alcohol is not widely consumed in Morocco, but it can be found in bars and restaurants that serve it discreetly. Also, many hotels will serve alcohol. Do not drink openly in public!
Heath
The diseases endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, like Malaria and Yellow Fever, are not a threat in Morocco. You may run into a case of traveler’s diarrhea depending on your eating habits. Tap water is safe to drink in Morocco, but you should purify and treat your water if you are in rural areas where well water is used. There is a lot of delicious street food to eat in Morocco, but try to pick a spot that looks clean and has lots of people (a crowd usually means the food is both delicious and hygienic).
Safety
Violent crime is not a problem in Morocco, but you should be aware of petty theft in larger urban areas. Take caution in crowded areas, always keeping a close on your belongings, and covering up valuables. Many people will offer to sell you marijuana and hashish in Morocco, but it is unwise to take them up on the offer. Undercover policemen have been known to pull this stunt and you do not want to end up in a Moroccan jail.