A short ferry ride away from Europe, you will find Morocco, the magical land of camels, mosques and beautiful natural landscapes.
From impressive waterfalls to the stunning coastal sea-side, Morocco has a lot more to offer than just deserts (although of course, a visit to the Sahara is definitely a must!).
Here’s some of the best top things to do and see in Morocco. Are you ready to venture into the realm of Aladdin?
#01: Explore the world’s bluest city: Chefchaouen
In the north of Morocco there is a place unlike any other in the world: Chefchaouen, the legendary city of blue. Surrounded by mountains, it is here at Chefchaouen where you can enjoy the best that Morocco has to offer. Just for the sense of wonder they will experience based on the colors alone, this should be on any kid-friend itinerary of Morocco.
Friendly locals, amazing meals and breath-taking views are only a few of the wonders that you’ll see in Chefchaouen.
#02: Go off the beaten path to the waterfalls of Ouzoud
Believe it or not, Morocco is home to some of the prettiest waterfalls in the world. The waterfalls of Ozuzoud are located two hours away from Marrakech and it’s a magical place where you can feel connected to nature as you hike all the way down of the cliff to get splashed by the falls.
Plus, did I mention that you can find monkeys here? Forget about the waterfalls, Ouzoud is very well-worth visiting just for the monkeys alone!
#03: Sleep in a traditional Moroccan palace
The riads are private owned Moroccan palaces that you can rent while you’re in Morocco. They are characterised by having big courtyard, traditional Islamic decoration and a architectural design that enables the ventilation which is great for those hot summer months.
Today, some riads have been converted to hostels and hotels but you can also rent luxury 3-floor riad all for your own for less than 200 USD a night.
#04: Ride a camel in the Sahara desert
The most emblematic symbol of Morocco is definitely the camel (and no, people don’t actually trade camels for wives in modern times) and a visit to the country is not complete without spending at least one night under the stars in the Sahara desert.
From Marrakech and Fez, there are many multi-day excursions to the Sahara, most of them including interesting stops on the way such as Ait Benhadou (see #5). Chose yours wisely and remember that last minute prices are the best for your Sahara excursion.
#05: Visit the places where Game of Thrones was filmed
Morocco is famous for being the place where Daenerys’ adventures at Slavers’ Bay were filmed. The city of Essaouiria (located in the coast west of Marrakech) served as the double of Astapor while Ait Benhadou (a town on the way to the Sahara Desert) served as the double of Meereen.
These Game of Thrones filming locations can be easily visited today during your trip to Morocco. Unleash your inner Targaryen and walk in the footsteps of the Mother of Dragons now!
#06: Behold the Islamic Art of Morocco’s capital Rabat
Overlooked almost by every single traveler, the capital of Morocco, Rabat, is a very interesting place to visit, mainly for the local experience of visiting its beaches and also because of the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V where you can enjoy a magnificent display of Islamic Art.
Be warned, however, that Rabat is not a touristy city so it’s better if you know a few words in either Arabic of Franch before you visit it.
#07: Get scammed in Marrakech at least once
If you visit Marrakech without being scammed or pick-pocketed at least once, then you didn’t really have the full Moroccan experience. From fake smiles to hidden double menus, Marrakech has an international fame for being a very difficult city for foreigners who are not prepared to deal with scam artists.
Read this article of the Top 7 Travel Scams of Morocco and remember that the average Moroccan is a good person who really wants you to enjoy your visit to their country and that scam artists are only a very visible minority. Enjoy your time!
Have you ever visited Morocco? Would you like to? Share your thoughts and let me know what you think my friends!
About the author
Raphael Alexander Zoren, also known as The Man of Wonders, is the founder of Journey Wonders, a travel website for culture and adventure travel. Born in the poverty of a developing country, today he is the living proof that anyone from anywhere can achieve their dreams of traveling the world. You can follow his misadventures on Facebook here.
Morocco has such a unique identity. I was lucky enough to have visited Marrakech. Although I only had 2 days, it was a memorable experience.
Some places just leave their mark on you, like a deep imprint, no matter how short your visiting time is…
Morocco is one of those exotic countries that travelers need to visit at least once … so many interesting things to see and do!
Chefchaouen – there’s a color one simply can’t get enough of. No. 7, I think we can skip that. 🙂
Morocco is on my bucket-list. The country looks so intriguing and beautiful. It’s a beyond a conventional touristic place. Love your suggestions.
The news is very interesting thank you very much for the information ..
I’ve been to Morocco twice in the last two years, and when people ask my why I love this country so much, I wouldn’t know where to start.
Besides the places you mentioned here, I also recommend visiting a Berber village in the High Atlas Mountains and staying with a host family. I think this is the best cultural experience you can get in Morocco.
hahaha very very good, congratulations on this great article.