Morocco Travel Guide

Discover Why You Should Visit Morocco

Why Visit Morocco?

Morocco is a captivating blend of African, Arab, and European influences, offering everything from buzzing souks and ancient medinas to the majestic Atlas Mountains and sweeping Sahara Desert.

Its diverse geography, rich traditions, and vibrant cities make it one of North Africa’s most enticing and colorful destinations.

Ideal for: Cultural explorers, food lovers, adventure seekers, photographers, and desert trekkers.

Must-Know Facts

Capital/Major City: Rabat (capital), Casablanca (largest city)

Language(s): Arabic and Amazigh (official), French widely spoken

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November for pleasant weather

Fun Fact: Morocco is just 13 kilometers from Europe, separated by the Strait of Gibraltar.

Top Things to Do

Wander through the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen

Explore the bustling souks and palaces of Marrakech’s medina

Camp under the stars in the Sahara Desert near Merzouga

Trek through the High Atlas Mountains or climb Mount Toubkal

Relax in a traditional hammam or sip mint tea in a riad courtyard

Local Culture & Lifestyle

Moroccan life revolves around family, hospitality, and tradition. Markets, mosques, and tea houses form the social fabric of daily life.

Islam is the predominant religion, and its practices shape public life and festivals.

Traditional clothing like the djellaba and kaftan are commonly worn during special occasions and in rural areas.

Food & Drink Highlights

Street Food: Msemen (Moroccan pancakes), grilled brochettes, harira soup

Restaurants: Nomad (Marrakech), Dar Yacout, Café Clock (Fes)

Drinks: Sweet mint tea, avocado juice, spiced coffee

Desserts: Chebakia (sesame cookies), briouats (pastry with almond paste), orange slices with cinnamon

Main Dish & Culinary Symbols

Signature Dish: Tagine – a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, cooked in a clay pot

Common Ingredients: Couscous, lamb, olives, preserved lemons, saffron, cinnamon

Culinary Culture: Meals are a social occasion, often started with bread and salads, followed by shared tagines or couscous dishes

Symbols & Icons of the Area

Natural Icons: Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains, Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines

Cultural Icons: Arches, geometric tilework (zellige), colorful rugs, Berber jewelry, calligraphy

Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path

Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar used in many films

The palm groves and desert oases of the Draa Valley

The Roman ruins of Volubilis near Meknes

The seaside town of Asilah known for murals and art festivals

Shopping & Souvenirs

What to Buy: Handwoven rugs, leather slippers (babouches), argan oil, ceramics, spices

Where to Shop: Marrakech souks, Fes medina, Essaouira artisan markets, Casablanca boutiques

Getting Around

Public Transport: Trains are efficient between major cities; buses and petit taxis common within towns

Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring rural areas or making scenic drives

Tip: Grand taxis are used for intercity travel and can be shared or booked privately

Walkability: Excellent in medinas and historic districts

Travel Tips

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites

Haggling is expected in markets; it’s part of the culture

Tap water is safe in cities but bottled water is recommended for travelers

Avoid public displays of affection, especially outside tourist zones

Where to Stay

Budget: Hostels in Marrakech or Chefchaouen, basic guesthouses

Mid-range: Riad Kniza, Riad Dar Anika, Villa Maroc (Essaouira)

Luxury: La Mamounia (Marrakech), Royal Mansour, Kasbah Tamadot (Atlas Mountains)

Unique: Desert camps in Merzouga, restored riads in Fes or Meknes

Sample 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech, explore the medina, Jardin Majorelle, and Jemaa el-Fnaa square

Day 2: Travel to the Atlas Mountains for a short hike or Berber village visit

Day 3: Drive to the Sahara Desert, camel ride and overnight in a desert camp

Day 4: Return to Marrakech or continue to Fes for cultural exploration

Plan with Region Waze Travel

Let Region Waze Travel immerse you in Morocco’s color, charm, and contrasts.