21 Best Things To Do in Morocco

Planning to travel in north Africa and want a list of the best things to do in Morocco?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

All in all, having visited several times, it ends up that I’ve spent a couple of months in Morocco total… and I still haven’t seen all this country has to offer!

Deceptively big and brimming with diversity, it’s just not possible to see the best of Morocco’s coastline, mountains, deserts, gorges, cities and ruins in one trip – unless you’re staying for a very long time that is!

Or unless you run through this list of the 21 best things to do in Morocco, which will have you covering all the highlights!

For while I certainly haven’t seen all of Morocco (just one reason this country keeps calling me back!) I’ve certainly seen a good chunk of it, meaning I wanted to bring you the top things to do in this epic destination so that you can get a good flavour and, hopefully fall in love with the place, too!

So here it is, my list of Morocco’s wonderful highlights that will give you a great starter sample of the treasures that lie in store for you here…

Oh and if you’re looking for a tour company who offer imperial city and desert tours, starting from a range of cities including Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez and Tangier, look no further than To Morocco Travel. All their tours are full customisable and small group focused.

 

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#1 Hike Todra Gorge

Coming in at number 1 on my list of the top things to do in Morocco is a surprising one that many of you might scoff at, but stick with me here!

For while Todra Gorge is a box ticker many people see for a few hours as part of their desert tour from Marrakesh, if you stay a night or 2 in this wonderful area you’ll discover so much more!

Turning out to be my favourite place in Morocco, staying in a local guesthouse in the nearby village of Ait-Baha provided a wonderfully authentic culture experience, mountains of epic desert scenery (literally) and some great hiking and climbing.

The perfect chilled antidote to hectic and touristy Marrakesh, this really is a dream spot among the remote valleys at the foot of the Atlas Mountains.

Learn more in this full Todra Gorge travel guide I wrote following my magical time there.

 

#2 Spend a Night in the Desert

Next up, one of the best places to visit in Morocco has to be the stunning sands of the Sahara… and if this is your first time to a desert, then hold onto your hats – you’re going to be blown away!

From nights spent under the stars in a desert camp to sunsets watched from the back of a camel, the wonder of the desert never ceases to amaze me and my time in Morocco’s didn’t disappoint.

Possible by independent means, most people however, choose to take a Morocco desert tour to make life easier.

Learn about how to organise and prepare for both options, including itineraries, prices and what to expect, in my ultimate travel guide to the Morocco desert.

 

#3 Surf

Moving now from the dry arid parts of the country to the wild Atlantic coast, if there’s one thing Morocco is becoming increasingly well known for, its waves!

Tons of surf schools are now popping up in the southern part of the coastline, most sandwiched between the cities of Agadir to the south and Essaouira to the north.

Taghazout seems to the epic-centre of the action, but all the lovely villages along here boast some tourist treats and I’m not just talking surfers here – yoga retreats and lovely seaside apartments breaks are also part of the bill.

Check out this brilliant surf camp in Taghazout, if you’re looking for a gem.

 

#4 Eat

And sticking with the monosyllabic theme when it comes to the top things to do in Morocco, eat has to be up there!

If you haven’t tried Moroccan cuisine yet, where have you been?

Well, obviously not Morocco, because here you can’t move for delicious local food, which is always washed down with a glass of fresh mint tea.

Tagines, salads, fresh fruit and dates make up the average set menu and vegetarians are well-catered for usually.

While the cities will boast more upmarket restaurants, it’s the authentic small villages, towns and souks that you need to head for to enjoy the real Moroccan feasts!

Otherwise taking a local food tour or cooking course can be a great way to learn more about the crucial role food plays in this country’s culture.

 

#5 Get Lost in Fez

But now we head back to the beaten track, with an absolute must-visit place in Morocco and somewhere I head on every trip – that is the beguiling city of Fez.

Located in the centre of the country travel-wise, Fez often forms a cross-roads for those heading between the north and south, the coastline and the desert.

So pass through this city you probably will, and stay overnight in this city you absolutely should!

The historic medina in Fez is one of the oldest cities in the world and stepping inside this UNESCO treasure is like stepping back in time.

Put down your map, relax and prepare to get lost in the maze of streets which has dazzled travellers for hundreds for years.

Check out my list of the best things to do in Fez for more ideas, or learn how to get from Marrakesh to Fez (or visa-versa) in this post I wrote.

 

 

#6 Snap Chefchaouen

And from Fez, if you’re heading north,  it’s likely your next destination will be Chefchaouen in the Rif mountains.

Learn more about how to get to Chefchaouen in this article I wrote, otherwise just know that this delightful town, nicknamed the Blue Pearl of Morocco, is another must-see spot.

Famous for its blue walls, streets and houses, the ancient medina (yes another one) is centuries old and its charmingly small nature and gorgeous elevated setting, makes it a popular jewel in Morocco’s travel crown.

Learn more in this list of my top things to do in Chefchaouen.

 

#7 Caffeinate in Tangier

And from Chefchaouen, many people then head onto the Mediterranean port city of Tangier.

Another ancient city and popular, in times gone by, with many European and North American bohemian artists, Tangier has always been and remains a fusion of Western and Arabian influences.

Situated at the tip of Africa, just a few km from the south of Europe, this is really no surprise and often makes Tangier either the first or last stop on many people’s Morocco itineraries.

Many ferries from Spain arrive into Tangier, but staying a few nights in this city, on your way into or out of the country, should definitely be factored in.

Strolling the old streets and souks of the medina here is wonderful, but it’s really the historic coffee shops, where the smell of bohemian smoke still hangs in the air, that can’t be missed!

If you really want to understand Tangier, this highlights day tour around the city with a local guide comes highly recommended.

 

#8 Learn Arabic

And perhaps, while you’re hanging around in Tangier’s cafes, it’s time to brush up on (or pick up some) Arabic.

In fact, Morocco is a great place to learn Arabic full stop and if you’re serious about this, many good language schools across the country cater for tourists and offer lessons at some great prices.

Otherwise, you’re always likely to find someone wanting to practice their English in Morocco and conversation-swapping, even on an informal basis, can be a wonderful way to get an insight into the people who populate this wonderful country.

For more information about languages spoken in Morocco, as well as 20 other things to know before you travel to this country, check out this article, which is chock-full of useful tips.

 

#9 Hike the Atlas Mountains

But enough of all this coffeeshop and language-learning lark, now it’s time to get out there again, into the wilderness and what Morocco does best.

And that is stunning landscapes!

(Actually, this is just one of the things Morocco does best, because there’s a few… but I digress.)

Needless to say, the dramatic scenery in this country is pretty impressive and sitting among its greatest claims to fame are the soaring Atlas Mountains.

Hiking in these elevated (and often snowy) peaks, off the beaten track, and with few other people around, you’ll feel miles from anywhere, let alone the desert, which actually lies just at the foot of them.

So grab a guide, strap on your hiking boots and harness your sense of adventure – hiking in Morocco’s Atlas mountains is definitely one of the best things to do here.

Check out this top-rated trekking day trip from Marrakesh if you’re looking to book something in advance.

 

#10 Tick Marrakesh Off Your List

And then, come down from the Atlas with a thud (literally and metaphorically) as you land in the bustling and chaotic city of Marrakesh.

Even though this isn’t my favourite city in Morocco, it’s one of those places many people feel they just have to tick off their bucket list.

So gather your nerves, leave your valuables in your room and head into the souks of the country’s tourism capital and the full sensory assault!

If you feel more confident with a guide, then books yours here.

 

#11 Shop Till You Drop!

And one thing you can’t miss doing in the souks of Marrakesh, or any Moroccan souks for that matter, is shopping!

From beautiful textiles to leather goods, spices to ceramics, there’s so many gorgeous souvenirs to pick up in Morocco, you’d better bring an empty bag with you!

Ohhhh and my top tip when it comes to authentic souk-shopping in Morocco?

Head to the Souss Valley town of Taroudannt, near Agadir, to see how trading has taken place in this part of the world for generations.

 

#12 Stay in a Riad

It’s a classic, but it’s still a goodie!

Yes one of the things you have to do in Morocco (no matter your budget), is stay in a traditional riad.

Depending on your style, this could be a luxury number in Marrakesh or a hostel riad in a Chefchaouen, but whatever your travel style experiencing a bit of riad life, especially from the rooftop, is a must on your Morocco list.

Learn more about what to budget for your Morocco trip is this article I wrote about the costs of travelling in the country.

 

 

#13 Experience Casablanca

Made famous by the film, most people have a bit of a shock when they turn up in Casablanca these days to find a huge modern metropolis filled with people.

Yes, this coastal city is actually the most populated place in Morocco, but spend a few days in the country’s beating heart and the madness of this place soon gets under your skin.

Exploring the art deco architecture remains a traveller favourite here and taking a city tour is a great way to get to learn more about it.

This Casablanca day tour comes highly recommended.

 

#14 Visit Tétouan’s UNESCO Centre

And jumping from one extreme to another, a city that’s far-less crowded than Casablanca, Tétouan (located between Tangier and Chefchaouen) oozes authenticity.

Its UNESCO-listed historic centre here is the main attraction, but it’s the people-watching and genuine everyday sense of what real life is like in Morocco that makes spending a night in Tétouan one of the best things to do in this country.

 

#15 Marvel at the Roman Ruins

And if it’s historical treats you’re after, then you’ll be hard-pressed to find better in Morocco than the amazing UNESCO-listed ruins of Volubilis.

Located between the city of Meknes (also UNESCO-listed) a few hours from the median of Fez (also UNESCO-listed – are you getting the picture yet?) these are the country’s finest Roman ruins and are well worth a look in.

 

#16 Step Back in Time at Moulay Idriss

And right near the Volubilis ruins is another UNESCO-listed spot (I kid you not!) and a very important pilgrimage site – that is the holy city of Moulay Idriss.

Easily accessible from Meknes too, most tourists however tend to visit the white-washed hilltop site of Moulay Idriss from Fez as part of a day tour that also covers Volubilis and Meknes.

A brilliant way to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time and to learn a lot of history care of your guide, this well-reviewed day tour is a great option.

 

#17 Enter the Movies at Aït Benhaddou

And now we head back to the desert lands and to discover a piece of Moroccan history that’s been brought into the 21^st Century.

The ancient Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou (traditionally a mud or stone wall fort in the desert that usually housed a small village inside) has been carefully restored for the movie / TV industry and is now the place where some very famous films were shot.

The list includes Babel, Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones!

An ancient stop on the caravan trading routes from Mali and Sudan to Marrakesh, Aït Benhaddou is now well worth a few hours of your time if you’re passing through nearby Ouarzazate – not least for the stunning views of the high Atlas its position affords.

 

#18 Bliss Out in Essaouira

After all this landlocked time however, you may well be clamouring for the sea and top of the list when it comes to towns on Morocco’s coast is Essaouira.

An old fishing port, pretty, charming and now wildly popular with travellers of an arty-persuasion, this is the place to come and kick back for a few days to enjoy strolling and the sea air.

And the fact that Essaouira is just a few hours from Marrakesh makes it brilliantly easy to visit too!

 

#19 Relax at a Palmeraie

The other best place to relax in Morocco is in the villages surrounding the desert palmeraies.

Essentially an oasis in the desert, these green patches of lush foliage and agriculture are the breadbasket of life in the arid south of this country and have sustained life in its villages for thousands of years.

The Dades, Draa and Ziz Valley have wonderful examples of palmeraies and the local villages surrounding them usually offer fantastic homestay opportunities away from the travel crowds.

If you want to chill in an authentic Berber village and enjoy nature and the desert at its best (plus some good hiking!) – these are the places to head for.

 

#20 Get Off the Beaten Track in the Anti Atlas

And sticking with the “off the beaten track” theme (you know I love it if you read this blog often), another great place to enjoy some hiking, traditional villages and stunning scenery away from the crowds in Morocco is the Anti Atlas.

Lying in the south of the county, this is a beautiful area full of outdoor activities to enjoy amidst the remote mountain range and its valleys.

The town of Tafroute, with its pretty red, granite surrounds makes for a great base, with plenty of cycling, hiking and climbing activities on offer.

Plus of course, there’s a great local hammam or 3 to enjoy after the physical exertion!

 

#21 Hit the Beach at Al-Hoceima

And finally on this list of the best things to do in Morocco is an option that the local tourists know about, but few international ones do.

The region of Al-Hoceima on the Mediterranean coast is a lovely resort area with a gorgeous strip of coastline and a stunning national park to boot.

Quiet, safe and relaxing, the sweeping Corniche here, along with the choice of 3 lovely beaches and plenty of hiking or biking opportunities in the national park, makes this place a must if you’re looking for unspoilt surrounds.

 

 

Top Travel Tips for Morocco

Best Time to Visit Morocco?

The spring and autumn months are the best times to visit Morocco.

With a largely south Mediterranean climate, traveling to this country in either April, May, September or October will allow you to enjoy a pleasant climate perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing and hitting the beach.

 

How to Get There?

Flights to the country’s main international airport, Casablanca, arrive from cities across Europe and beyond.

You can also fly to Tangier and Marrakesh easily.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.

Alternatively, you can catch the ferry from Spain to Morocco.

 

How to Get Around?

Trains, domestic flights and buses all allow you get around Morocco.

Here’s guides I wrote about making some of the most popular tourist journeys

• How to Get to Chefchaouen
• How to Travel from Marrakesh to Fez

If you want to visit off the beaten track spots, hiring a car is really the best way to travel the county.

Check out these great Morocco rental car deals.

 

Safety Tips

As a solo female traveller, safety when travelling alone (especially in remote areas) is also big on my radar.

Although I have heard and read reports about female travellers being harassed in Morocco, I haven’t experienced any of that myself and can only say that I felt incredibly safe here the whole time.

That said, there’s a lot of common sense involved in safety too.

My advice is to stick with other travellers, don’t wander out alone at night and always be clear about your boundaries in all situations.

You’ll also want to ensure you drink enough water in Morocco’s hot and dry climate as dehydration is probably one of the biggest dangers here.

Travelling with a LifeStraw Go Water Bottle, which you can use to purify water from any fresh water source, is a top option to help you do this.

I bought one for my trip to Morocco – as it then allowed me to drink the tap water safely – and now wouldn’t be anywhere without it!

Sun protection is another thing to factor in for this country and packing clothes (like a cap or hat) and lotion that will protect you from the strong UV rays is definitely recommended.

You’ll also want to make sure you pack plenty of warm clothes for the desert – it gets freezing here at night – including a good coat and a hat is a must, we can’t have you catching a cold now!

 

Travel Insurance

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

 

Travel Money for Morocco

When it comes to paying for things in Morocco, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here.

 

Top 7 Things To Pack for Morocco

Here’s my top 7 recommended packing items for Morocco or take a look at this full Morocco packing list I wrote for more ideas.

• Warm, Travel Coat
• Travel Towel
• Birkenstocks or Sandals
• Good Day Pack
• Sony A6000 mirrorless camera
• Life Straw Go Water Filter Bottle
• Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook

 

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Do you agree with my list of the 21 best things to do in Morocco?

Which was your favourite?

And did I miss any out?

Let me know all your thoughts in the comments box below…