Basket
Best Things To Do In Morocco
Morocco is one of the most unique and captivating places to visit in the world.
Naturally, that means that narrowing down a list of the best things to do is easier said than done – but after years of running trips and visiting Morocco, we think we might have nailed it.
Then again, one more trip to Morocco couldn’t hurt… just to be sure.
You might often hear that a country or city has something for everyone, but it’s not often true in a very literal sense in the way that Morocco is.
For the adventurer, there’s high-octane white water rafting, trips to the iconic Sahara Desert, mountain ranges and even Morocco’s very own Grand Canyon.
And for the culture vultures, there’s the Blue City, Marrakech, Casablanca, and one of the world’s most unique and revered cuisines to sample every morsel of.
That’s before we even get started… and speaking of getting started – let’s explore Morocco!
The Blue City: Chefchaouen
One of the most iconic and Instagram-worthy destinations in Morocco is the charming town of Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue City.”
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a picturesque labyrinth of winding streets and alleys, where every building is painted in shades of blue.
I’ll resist the temptation to sing ‘I’m blue abadee’ (etc) but I will reserve the right to hum it at some point the next time I’m in this gorgeous city.
A quick wander through the medina, or old town, and you’ll quickly see what all the fuss is about. The Blue City is all about discovering quaint cafes, artisanal shops selling handcrafted goods and throwing yourself straight into the culture.
The town’s blue hues are said to have been introduced by Jewish refugees in the 15th century, and the colour has since become a symbol of the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Fes: The Spiritual Heart of Morocco
Fes is often referred to as the spiritual heart of Morocco, and for good reason. This ancient city is home to the Fes el Bali, the largest car-free urban area in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I don’t know about you, but that sounds like the perfect tonic to a busy life and the exact place I imagine myself being on a busy day when I’m stuck in traffic.
Exploring the winding alleyways of the Fes el Bali is a true sensory experience, with the scent of spices, the sound of haggling vendors, and the sight of intricate architecture around every corner.
Fes is also home to the Chouara Tannery, where you can witness the leather-making process that’s been taking place in Fes for centuries – and you can see how much (or little) has changed over the years.
Trekking in the Atlas Mountains
The majestic Atlas Mountains are one of the most picturesque and stunning natural sights in Morocco, with the rugged mountain range stretching across North Africa.
It’s not for the faint hearted, but true adventure seekers will be right at home trekking through the Atlas Mountains, as well as heading through the Todra Gorge, one of the most stunning natural wonders in the country.
While you can arrange trips to the Atlas Mountains independently, it’s always advisable to book through a reputable travel company and to travel in a group.
Thankfully, we can help with both of those…
And you can find out more about the Atlas Mountains in our itinerary for our Best of Morocco trip.
Exploring the Sahara Desert
No visit to Morocco would be complete without experiencing the iconic Sahara Desert.
The world’s largest hot desert is iconic for a reason – and camel ride under the stars in the Sahara is something you won’t forget in a hurry.
It will feel like you’re in a movie while you’re riding under the stars, although the lack of a full camera and sound crew might be a giveaway.
Our Best of Morocco trip includes a 2-night expedition to the Sahara, which means you not only get to enjoy a camel ride under the stars, but you also get to enjoy the most majestic sunrise and sunset of your life.
You can find out all about the Sahara Desert and our Best of Morocco trip here
Marrakech: The Red City
We’ve had the Blue City, so it’s only right that we juxtapose that with the Red City, right?
Marrakech is one of Morocco’s largest and most famous cities. It’s a vibrant cultural metropolis and has a little bit of everything from modernity to the most traditional of eateries and markets.
The souks (markets) are a sight to behold and iconic landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque and Jemaa el-Fnaa square are unmissable.
From the intricate tilework of the Bahia Palace to the aromatic spices of the Spice Souk, Marrakech will awake your senses and leave a lasting impression.
And if that wasn’t enough, our Best of Morocco trip even includes a half day cooking class in Marrakech where you’ll learn all about the herbs and spices that make authentic Moroccan cuisine the delicacy that it is…
And yes, you do get to enjoy your 3-course lunch too!
There’s more info on the cooking class and what to do in Marrakech in our itinerary here.
Surfing in Essaouira
Surfing isn’t all about catching giant waves and running down a beach with David Hasselhoff.
Or maybe I’m confusing surfing with Baywatch… anyway.
If you’re looking for surfing in the sun in the most relaxing environment possible, then we might have just the thing for you. Because Essaouira is perched right on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, which means it’s the perfect crossover between North Africa and the Mediterranean.
Enjoying a day of surfing in the sun will never be a bad way to spend a day, and with Essaouira’s ideal combination of wind and waves (and sun!), you’re in for a real treat.
The town itself is a charming destination, complete with golden-stone city walls, bright blue hues and dazzling whitewash.
Up, up, up and away…
For a truly unique perspective on Morocco’s stunning landscapes, a hot air balloon ride could be the trip of a lifetime!
Our one-day bolt-on hot air balloon experience will take you just outside of Marrakech, where you’ll begin a journey like no other.
Floating above the lush green plains and mountain foothills, you’ll begin the day by helping the professionals set up for the flight.
Peering down over rural villages and endless valleys is something you truly have to see to believe – it’s both peaceful and an incredible adventure.
For more information on our hot air balloon ride experience, click here.
White Water Rafting on the Ahansal River
If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline-fueled adventure, then white water rafting is probably what you’re after!
A trip down the Ahansal River, which is often referred to as Morocco’s Grand Canyon, is as thrilling as it gets – and if you’re after adventure, you’ll get it and then some.
Rafting through dramatic limestone gorges, the rapids will take you winding through an unforgettable journey along the rugged landscape.
Whether you’re looking for immersion, outdoor adventure, or a combination of both, Morocco has something to offer every type of traveller.
You can find out more about our White Water Rafting trip here, including the full itinerary
