Morocco: From Sandy Dunes to Vibrant Traditions

From Yves Saint Laurent to magical Marrakech, Morocco captivates with its vibrant hustle and bustle. This diverse coastal region combines rich history, vibrant culture, and countless activities.

Explore colorful markets and the tranquility of the Sahara Desert, and indulge in a kitchen full of flavors. Located in North Africa, bordered by the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas, it remains a favorite destination for many travelers.

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The Best Things to Do in Morocco

The charm of this North African country winds through diverse terrain, intriguing history, and a vibrant culture. Morocco, full of colors, adventure, and flavors, invites exploration.

Among the best places to visit are historical residences and monuments. Moroccan architecture reflects a mix of cultural influences, including Berber, Arab, and Andalusian traditions that have evolved over millennia.

These influences are evident not only in history but also in the range of accommodations. Visitors to Morocco often choose the so-called riads. These traditional houses or palaces with inner courtyards are the centerpiece of the architecture. They are usually adorned with plants, fountains, arcades, or colorful mosaics.

Riads offer maximum privacy, yet provide an open space to meet people from around the world. Most are run by local families at a reasonable price.

Marrakech

The Moroccan royal residence lies at the foot of the Atlas Mountains as the capital of the province of the same name. Marrakech, also known as "The Red City," is one of the most iconic places in the area.

The heart of the city is a large square full of life, facing the Koutoubia Mosque with its minaret towering 77 meters high. Jemaa el-Fna is recognizable from photographs of lights, fruit stalls, spices, and mysterious snake charmers. It tells stories of a life full of colors, crafts, and spicy food in the labyrinth of narrow streets of the old city Medina.

South of the main square stands the intricate architecture of the Bahia Palace with 160 rooms. Here you will find several courtyards, gardens, and numerous arcades adorned with traditional colorful mosaics.

Even brighter tones are mixed in the botanical garden Jardin Majorelle, so don’t miss it. Various species of exotic plants thrive here among brightly blue buildings with a museum of Berber culture. This magical place was originally designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later renovated by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

The City of Fes

Morocco is also home to one of the oldest and best-preserved medieval cities in the world, where the famous university Al-Karaouine from 859 and the Islamic school Madrasa Bou Inania with rich decoration stand. The spiritual heart of the country was founded by Arabs in the 8th century and today is one of the most authentic areas, as it is considered the cradle of local Islamic culture.

Fes rightfully belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage list. The oldest part and one of the largest labyrinths in the world can be found in the Old Medina Fes el-Bali. Prepare for more than 9,000 narrow streets filled with souks, ancient mosques, and traditional workshops.

A popular attraction in Moroccan Fes is the Chouara tannery. It offers a glimpse into the traditional leather processing that Moroccans have dyed with natural pigments for years.

Visiting the Sahara Desert

Where the sand dunes slowly rise from the desert, you will feel a peace that is rare in the world. A visit to the Sahara on the back of a camel is a unique experience that will exceed any expectations. The small hospitable town of Zagora is considered the gateway to the desert.

From there, you can head to the most popular place – the Erg Chebbi area. It stretches over an area of nearly 30 kilometers with dunes reaching up to 150 meters high, where you will experience a chilling night under the stars in traditional Berber tents (temperature differences between day and night can be extreme, so think about layering your clothing). But also the magical sunrise over the sand dunes.

The indigenous people of the desert still live in a traditional way, and you can be a part of it, even if just for a moment. They will greet you with mint tea, serve you food, and bring you into mysterious songs by the flickering fire.

Chefchaouen – “The Blue City”

Another place worth visiting on your journey through Morocco is the picturesque destination called Chefchaouen. It lies on a sunny hill in the Rif Mountains among hundreds of buildings painted blue. In this peaceful refuge, where life seems to move a bit slower, you will enter a dream with plenty of photographic spots.

The history of Chefchaouen says that the blue color symbolizes heaven, constantly reminding the inhabitants of the presence of God. The first houses were painted by Jews in the 15th century, and the mysterious story lives on today. Although the modern world leans more towards the idea that blue repels mosquitoes. 🙂

North of the old town in the green land of the Rif Mountains also hides several interesting hiking trails. Among the popular spots are the deep canyons of the Akchour waterfalls.

A Surfer's Paradise

One of the biggest attractions of Morocco belongs to surfing enthusiasts. The coast of the northern Atlantic Ocean offers quality waves, climate, and a unique culture that both beginners and experienced surfers will appreciate.

The small fishing village of Taghazout in the southwestern corner of the country has become the most popular destination. The season here traditionally runs from October to March and continues through other spots – Imsouane with the longest “rideable” wave spot, the historic port city Essaouira, or the surfing challenge called Safi.

In Morocco, both professionals and beginners will find their place, as it offers several surf schools. Popular ones include Surf Coast Morocco – Surf & Yoga House and Imsouane Surf Lodge with great facilities right by the beach. Most of them are easily accessible from Agadir or Marrakech.

More Great Places and Activity Tips

Morocco is a fascinating country full of contrasts and interesting places. However, some of them lie off the traditional tourist routes. But they are equally enticing:

• Legzira Beach – considered one of the most beautiful in the world due to its enormous red rock arches.
• Tizi n'Tichka Mountain Road – for adrenaline lovers. It winds through several serpentine roads with exceptional views of the mountainous landscape.
• Todra Gorge – an impressive natural wonder of Morocco can be found in the Atlas Mountains between Berber villages and steep limestone walls up to 400 meters high. A crystal-clear river, Todra, flows through the gorge, where you can refresh yourself on hot days. The canyon is also loved by brave climbers.

Taste Local Dishes

The cuisine of North-West Africa is defined by aromatic and spicy dishes flavored with a multitude of spices. Dishes in Morocco have emerged under the influence of Berber, Jewish, Arab, French, and Spanish cultures.

It varies slightly in different parts of the country, but the essence remains the same – full of bold flavors. It will draw you into the world of lentil soup Harira, hundreds of types of dates, filo dough with various fillings, couscous, and the rituals of drinking mint tea.

Moreover, Moroccans are among the friendliest people who gladly serve traditional dishes to their guests.

Conclusion

Traveling through Morocco brings several extraordinary places where you will almost immediately immerse yourself in rich history, culture, and modern experiences. From bustling markets to the awareness of presence in the Sahara desert.