10 Must-Do Experiences in Morocco
Travel to the Kingdom of Morocco and you’ll encounter thousands of years of history alongside the fast-paced lifestyles of the new millennium. From ancient medinas and Arabic dialects to bustling cities like Tangier and modern movie magic on desert studio lots, Morocco blends old and new in a way that always feels fresh.
Morocco rests atop the African continent, right next door to Europe’s Iberian peninsula. Furthermore, it represents the western edge of the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region, hence the significance of its name—Morocco means “the west.” In this context, the country is a fusion of the intersecting cultures and geography that collide in this corner of the world.
Whether it’s your first time in this Western Kingdom or a return trip, you’ll always discover something new to experience. Here are 10 of our absolute favorites.
Outdoor Adventures: Mountains, Beaches, and Deserts
If you are an outdoor enthusiast who prioritizes natural wonders, Morocco presents a vast number of regions to explore, from the Atlas Mountains to the stunning rock archway of Legzira Beach. You can search for fossils in the western Sahara or observe unique ecosystems at the oasis near Ouarzazate to the south.
Trace the steps of myth in the Cave of Hercules near Gibraltar, or head to Friouato Cave to swim in an underground river in Tazekka National Park, east of Fez. You’ll see everything from goats perched high in olive trees to Cactus Thiemann, the world’s largest cactus farm, north of Marrakech.
Morocco’s Resplendent Tombs
Morocco has been inhabited for at least 300,000 years, resulting in numerous tombs and cemeteries worth visiting. Some, like the lavish Saadian Tombs or the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, are intricately designed, while others, like the 14th-century ruins of the Merenid Tombs or Miaara Cemetery—the largest Jewish burial ground in Morocco—offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past and its diverse cultures.
Ancient Ruins
While cities like Tangier and Rabat showcase contemporary marvels like one of the fastest bullet trains in Africa and the Mohammed VI modern art museum, you can never fully escape the past in Morocco. Just outside the city of Meknes, you’ll find the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a predecessor city from around the second century AD and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Volubilis is but one of many archaeological treasures scattered throughout the country, such as the Phoenician settlement of Lixus, dating back to the 7th century. The Roman historian Pliny claimed Lixus was home to the mythological garden of Hesperides, where Hercules famously stole the golden apples of knowledge.
The Medinas of Morocco
Even if you’ve not yet visited Morocco, you’ve likely heard of medinas—the historic quarters of many cities throughout the Arab world. Stepping into a medina feels like walking back in time, yet these districts remain very much a part of daily life in Morocco.
The medina of Fez, also known as the Fes Al Bali, houses mosques, ancient buildings, and the Kairaouine University, the oldest higher education institution in the world, operating since the year 859. While it’s not the only historic district in Fez or even in Morocco, this medieval medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason.
Other charming medinas include those of Tetouan and Marrakech. Tetouan remains especially untouched by time, reflecting its ties to Spanish Andalucía, while the Marrakech medina is often referred to as “The Red City” for its earthy ochre walls. However, perhaps the most picturesque medina in Morocco is Chefchaouen, with its labyrinth of vibrant blue walls nestled in the countryside near the Rif mountains.
Moroccan Mosques
Morocco’s historic mosques are not only architectural gems but also centers of spiritual and community life. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is one of the world’s largest mosques, uniquely constructed on both land and sea. The Spanish Mosque in Chefchaouen was built during the 1920s by the Spanish and now serves as a hiking landmark for breathtaking views of the blue city.
Another notable site is the Hassan Tower in Rabat. This 12th-century minaret was intended to be part of the largest mosque in the world, but the project was never completed. The Kairaouine University in Fez also includes a mosque as part of its historic campus. While many active mosques remain off-limits to non-Muslims, there are numerous older or incomplete mosques throughout Morocco open to tourists, each with stories worth discovering.
Gnawa Music
Gnawa, rooted in West Africa, is a trance-inducing genre that combines spirituality and organic sound. Gnawi musicians are respected artists, offering moving performances that integrate poetry and dance. The music draws crowds to the small town of Essaouira each year during the Gnawa World Music Festival, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to connect deeply with nature and culture through art.
Atlas Film Studio
In Ouarzazate, Atlas Film Studio is the world’s largest movie studio, where memorabilia from Star Wars, The Mummy, and Gladiator languish in the desert sun. Cinephiles will relish the opportunity to tour filming locations of classics from Casablanca to Game of Thrones. The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise also shot scenes here, connecting real-life Barbary pirates who sailed from the African coast across the Atlantic.
Souks and Hammams
Vendors gather daily in markets called souks where they offer everything from fresh produce to leather goods and home decor. In bustling cities like Marrakech, sprawling souks cater to various categories, including rugs, slippers, spices, and metalwork.
While souks are found in every city, the Habous market (also known as the New Medina) in Casablanca is particularly famous. Here, craftsmen display handmade goods, and the fragrance of spiced olives fills the air along with other delightful treats.
Once you’ve navigated the souks, visit a public bathhouse known as a hammam. This tradition traces back to the sixth century and continues to thrive in Morocco. Hammams vary in luxury and are typically segregated by gender, employing individuals to scrub and massage customers with a unique and thorough soap. Given the multitude of hammams, it’s wise to seek recommendations from locals for the best experiences in your area.
Morocco’s Famous Mint Tea
Outside of Morocco, the name Moroccan mint tea may be slapped on countless tea bags, yet the authentic beverage served in Morocco is a distinctly different experience. Instead of arriving in a mug, it’s served in clear glass cups showcasing deep green bundles of fresh leaves, herbs, and flowers. A standard order comes with generous spoonfuls of sugar, often accompanied by extra cubes on the side of the saucer.
Learn Darija
Moroccan Arabic, known as Darija, is frequently regarded as one of the most challenging dialects due to its mix of French, Spanish, and Amazigh influences. Various sub-dialects are spoken across different regions of Morocco.
While Darija may be less common in print, it thrives in daily conversation. For navigating the souks, cafes, and the local marketplace, learning a bit of Darija can enhance your authentic experience in Morocco. Classes are offered at Arabic language schools, but learning through everyday interactions can create lasting memories as well.
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