Morocco is a large country, with incredible diversity in everything from its geography to its languages to its cultures.
This is part of what makes it such a great vacation destination – there is something to do here for everyone.
For more information about hiking, beaches, horseback riding, desert treks, wildlife, and food, read on about the best things to do in Morocco.
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Beaches
Morocco boasts a diverse coastline stretching approximately 1,900 miles along the Mediterranean and Atlantic shores.
Whether you prefer relaxation, water sports, or vibrant coastal towns, Morocco has a beach for you. Here are some notable options:
- Al Hoceima: Located on the Mediterranean coast, Al Hoceima offers some of the finest Mediterranean beaches with clear blue waters.
- Tangier: Beyond Tangier, you’ll discover excellent swimming beaches at Ashakar and Playa Blanca. A bit farther east, Cabo Negro near Tetouan is another appealing option.
- Essaouira: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and international music festival, Essaouira features a wide, flat beach ideal for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, and sunbathing. The town itself exudes a cool, bohemian vibe.
- Agadir: As a large resort town, Agadir boasts a six-mile stretch of flat white sand, perfect for various water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
- Legzira: For a quieter, less touristy beach experience, consider Legzira, although accommodations may be limited. Alternatively, you can stay in nearby Sidi Ifni.
Morocco’s beaches offer something for every traveler, from tranquil shores to vibrant coastal towns and water sports activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the Moroccan coastline has you covered.
Hiking
Hiking in Morocco’s mountain ranges and foothills is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of North Africa.
One of the most popular hiking destinations is the Rif Mountain chain, in the northern part of the country.
From the charming village of Chefchaouen, you can take easy half-day hikes along a river, full-day treks up to Jebel al-Kalaa, or multi-day trips to places like Talassemtane National Park.
Ouzoud Falls and Ourika village near Marrakech, and Paradise Valley near Agadir are good options if you want to take a day trip and hike near rivers and stunning waterfalls.
They can all be reached by Grand Taxi, as well as with organized day trips.You’ll get a chance to see small Berber villages in these areas, where you can stop for a snack.
If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging – say, a mountain, Jebel Toubkal in the Central High Atlas may be just what you want.
At over 4100 meters, it’s a tough 2-3 day hike in the summer, and a climb requiring specialized gear in the winter.
M’Goun is another high peak in the Central High Atlas good for experienced climbers, but surrounding it are beautiful valleys that offer less intense excursions.
Finally, the national parks we mention below are beautiful places for walking and hiking, especially if you enjoy observing wildlife.
Desert Treks
Morocco stretches along the western edge of the Sahara, so it’s a perfect departure point for experiencing the world’s largest desert.
In Marrakech, you’ll find dozens of reasonably-priced tour options that take you into the desert for a day or two, on camelback if you want!
You can combine these trips with other features in the area, such as Ouarzazate, Dades gorge, and the Valley of Roses.
You’ll also find plenty of options for pre-booking tours online through sites like Viator
Pro tip: if you like star gazing, don’t miss spending a night camping in the desert
This rare chance to see the sky totally free of light pollution makes the stars absolutely stunning!
Moroccan Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is an exquisite blend of flavors, influenced by a rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
When you visit Morocco, be sure to savor these delightful dishes that will tantalize your taste buds:
Tagine: A must-try Moroccan specialty, tagine is a flavorful stew that combines meat (such as lamb, chicken, or fish) with an array of vegetables, fruits, and a blend of aromatic spices.
What makes tagine unique is its method of slow cooking in a clay pot with a cone-shaped lid, preserving the tenderness of the meat and infusing it with the essence of spices.
Variations include chicken tagine with lemon and olives, or lamb tagine with prunes and almonds. You can find tagine in local eateries and restaurants throughout Morocco.
Couscous: Fridays in Morocco are synonymous with couscous, a traditional semolina dish typically served with stewed chicken, vegetables, or meat.
Many local restaurants offer a Friday couscous special, featuring rich chicken broth and a sweet sauce made from caramelized onions and raisins. It’s a comforting and hearty dish that showcases Moroccan culinary traditions.
Tanjia: If you find yourself in Marrakech or the southern regions, don’t miss out on tanjia. This dish consists of beef, mutton, or even camel, slow-cooked for hours in a clay pot.
The result is tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a rich, aromatic flavor. Tanjia pairs perfectly with piping hot mint tea and offers a taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Vegetarian Delights: Moroccan cuisine also caters to vegetarian palates with a wide array of options. Indulge in savory stewed lentils and beans, creamy fava bean soup known as bisara, fresh salads, and flavorful vegetable tagines.
These dishes burst with the vibrant colors and flavors of locally sourced produce, making them a delightful choice for vegetarians.
Moroccan cuisine is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored, offering a tantalizing fusion of flavors that reflect the country’s history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor these dishes during your Moroccan journey.
Engaging with Moroccan Traditions
To truly immerse yourself in Moroccan culture, there are several authentic experiences you shouldn’t miss:
Attend a Traditional Gnawa Music Performance:
Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms and soulful melodies of Gnawa music, a traditional genre with deep spiritual roots.
Attend a live performance where you can witness the mesmerizing beats of the guembri (a traditional lute-like instrument) and the invigorating chants of the Gnawa musicians.
Let the infectious energy of the music transport you to a world of ancient African traditions and spiritual connections.
Learn the Art of Moroccan Carpet Weaving:
Delve into the intricate artistry of Moroccan carpet weaving and gain an appreciation for this centuries-old craft.
Take part in a workshop or visit a cooperative where skilled artisans patiently create magnificent carpets using traditional techniques.
Learn about the symbolism behind the vibrant colors and patterns while witnessing the meticulous process of hand-weaving these beautiful rugs.
By engaging in this cultural exchange, you’ll not only support local artisans but also gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance embedded within these works of art.
Participate in a Traditional Hammam
Experience: Indulge in a rejuvenating and traditional Moroccan hammam experience, a communal bathing ritual that dates back centuries.
Allow yourself to be pampered in a serene setting, where you’ll experience a series of cleansing and exfoliating treatments using natural Moroccan products like black soap and ghassoul clay.
Surrender to the soothing steam, invigorating scrubs, and relaxing massages as you embrace the Moroccan tradition of communal well-being and self-care.
This immersive experience is not only a treat for your body but also a way to connect with Moroccan customs and rituals.Moroccan Architecture: Visiting Iconic Landmarks
Morocco is renowned for its stunning architectural masterpieces that showcase the country’s rich history and artistic flair.
Immerse yourself in the world of Moroccan architecture by exploring these iconic landmarks:
Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
Located on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Marvel at the intricate clay architecture and fortified walls of this ancient Kasbah.
Recognize its captivating beauty, as it has served as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows.
Royal Palaces of Marrakech and Rabat
Marrakech’s Royal Palaces, such as the Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace, offer a glimpse into Morocco’s royal heritage.Admire the opulent courtyards, intricately carved stucco, and lush gardens that adorn these palaces.
In Rabat, visit the Royal Palace to witness the grandeur of the current monarch’s official residence.
Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque is a true architectural masterpiece located on the coast of Casablanca Be awestruck by its colossal size and intricate craftsmanship, which blends traditional Moroccan and contemporary influences.
Explore the stunning interiors, including the ornate prayer hall and the remarkable glass floor that reveals the ocean below.
Birdwatching and Wildlife
Souss-Massa National Park is one of the world’s best birding locations. Bordered by the Souss river to the north and the Massa river to the south, the park stretches 43km along the coast and includes a diverse range of habitats including shoreline, river, estuaries, forests, scrub, farmland, and near desert.
The over 200 species that either live there year-round or passthrough during migration make it an essential stop in Morocco. Souss-Massa is also home to the endangered bald ibis.
The entire world population of about 400 birds lives in the park.
Ifrane National Park is another wonderful place to hike, relax, and observe the flora and fauna.
This area is home to Barbary macaque monkeys. The monkeys have become quite used to human visitors, so they may wander over to check you out – or to steal a snack!
Close by is the Cèdre Gouraud forest, a protected area filled with towering cedar trees and more macaques.
Tangier is a prime spot to observe spring bird migrations, since it is located right next to the shortest crossing point over the Mediterranean.
From March to May, birds that winter in Africa and summer in Europe flock to Tangier to cross near the strait of Gibraltar, so you can see hawks, eagles, and bee eaters flying in large groups.
Rmilat and Slokia parks in Tangier, and the Jbel Mousa and Belyounesh areas, about an hour east, are great places to go.
Horseback Riding
Morocco has a tradition of horsemanship stretching back hundreds of years, and horses are still the best way to see some rural areas of the country.
You can go on short rides and multi-day trips everywhere from the Atlas Mountains to the southern beaches to the Sahara.
In large, tourist-oriented cities like Marrakech, Agadir, and Essaouira, it’s usually easy to book tours locally.
To book ahead of time – and be able to read reviews of the tour operator, book online. InTheSadde and Viator are international tour aggregators; search those sites for horse tours in Morocco and multiple options will come up.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Morocco is a treasure trove of diverse experiences waiting to be explored.
From its stunning beaches and breathtaking mountain hikes to its enchanting desert landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine, Morocco offers something for every traveler.
Immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, engage with its traditions, and marvel at its architectural wonders.
Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Morocco promises an unforgettable journey filled with unique moments and lasting memories.
Plan your Moroccan adventure today and embark on a captivating voyage through this extraordinary North African gem.