The location of Morocco makes it one of the most fascinating countries in the world. The history is complicated and deep, the culture is rich and complex, and its beauty is unmatched by most other countries.
Its location in northern Africa causes a unique clash of European, African, and Islamic influences. The result of this rare mix is a country so intensely different from any other country on the planet.
There is an endless amount of ingredients that go into forming the Morocco. You’ll find local taxi drivers speaking up to four languages; French, Arabic, English, and Spanish. There are mosques everywhere, and you’ll hear the broadcasted “Call to Pray” multiple times every day, and see many women wearing hijabs (head scarf) and jilbab (long overcoat covering the neck down). You will witness the Berber culture in action, which originates from ancient north African tribes. You will also experience a strong Arabic culture.
The only way to truly understand is to visit this country for yourself. Even the most veteran travelers may find the country overwhelming at first, but its beauty and diversity is far worth stepping out of your comfort zone.
There are several cities that should be visited in Morocco; Casablanca, Marrakech, Essaouira, and Chefchaouen. It is advised to take the tours around the city or the main attractions to fully experience each place. Learn more about the history and connection of each site to the country from the expert local guides.
Read on to see the top tours to take in Morocco!
Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque
The capital of Morocco and the country’s financial and business hub is Casablanca. It is an interesting city to visit, but as a tourist, there is no need to spend much time there. There are few attractions and not much to do if you are not hooked up to the city’s local professional inner circles.
The one attraction that cannot be missed in Casablanca is the Hassan II Mosque. Casablanca’s claim to fame (other than the classic Hollywood movie!) is this gorgeous oceanfront mosque. The minaret is the tallest in the world, and the mosque itself is the world’s third largest.
The sprawling grounds surrounding the mosque are open to the public. You can also wander around the outdoor courtyard freely. These are already spectacular sights in themselves. However, you can only see the inside of the mosque if you pay to take the guided tour. It’s worth the $12 USD.
The tours are available in English, French, Spanish, and several other languages and last about one hour. The guides are very well-educated and know all the fascinating facts about the mosque’s history.
The size alone is staggering and the interior is extremely impressive. The vaulted ceilings, intricate detail, and underground Turkish Baths are just the beginning. The marble pillars and oak wood accents are perfectly carved. The large bay windows offer unobstructed views of the ocean, upon which the mosque’s foundation is built. The most interesting feature? The retracting ceiling, which is opened on special occasions, holidays, or when the royal family is visiting, allowing the Moroccan sunshine to stream down upon the worshippers.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen Local Experience Tour
Nestled at the base of the Rif Mountain is one of Morocco’s best-preserved cities. Nicknamed the Blue City for the striking, bright-blue color of all the doors, walls, and stairways, Chefchaouen is one of the most photogenic places in the north of the country.
The tour starts by walking the medina streets with the famous blue buildings and distinct Arab-Andalusian architecture. Next you pass through the 18th century Chefchaouen Kasbah and dine at a local restaurant. From here you will head toward the Rass el Maa waterfall where you can witness locals washing their laundry in the water rushing from the mountain side.
The tour finishes by wandering through the Makhzen Market where you can shop for local handicrafts.
Marrakech
Walking City Tour of Marrakech
Marrakech, the bustling city known as Morocco’s cultural hub, is a city that should be on everyone’s bucket list. The lively atmosphere and the high-walled, maze-like alley ways has made Marrakech a world-famous destination.
A walking tour of the city is the best way to ensure you don’t miss anything. The local guides will navigate your way through the Old Medina (Old City), Jemaa al Fna (the famed central square), the souks (local markets), Koutoubia Mosque, the Kasbah (village), and more.
The guides provide excellent historic information on all the sights, as well as give tips on where to eat and shop.
Sahara Desert
Tours leaving from Marrakech
A tour to the Sahara Desert, complete with camel caravan and camping under the stars, could very well be the highlight of your trip to Morocco. How many people do you know can say they’ve laid atop the largest sand dunes in the world and witnessed the brilliant display of desert-night stars?
Zagora Desert Tour
For those with limited time, the Zagora Desert Trip is the best option. This tour will take you from Marrakech to part of the Sahara (called Zagora Desert) for a two-day, one-night tour. Included in the trip are guided tours of ancient cities like Ait Ben Haddou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Ouarzazate, as well as the breathtaking drive through the curvy High Atlas Mountain roads.
When you reach the desert, a group of local Berbers assist you in mounting your camel. You are then led into desert. The scenery is beautiful and desolate, with a mountainous backdrop and small orange sand dunes. Spend the night at the camp, which is ready and waiting amongst the sand dunes at the end of the camel trek.
The hosts cook a simple and traditional meal of soup, tajine, and mint tea and everyone gathers in a tent to dine together. Enjoy the rest of the evening under the stars, then it’s up at dawn to witness the sunrise over the desert dunes.
You will be returned to Marrakech the next day in the early evening. A whirlwind trip, but 100% worth the journey.
Merzouga Desert Tour
For those who have a little more time, it is recommended to embark on the Merzouga Desert trip. You will experience all the Zagora trip offers, as well as visiting Merzouga, another part of the Sahara.
You will leave Zagora after your first night, and after another camel ride, you will arrive at the camp site in Merzouga. This area is known for its very impressive, massive wind-swept sand dunes. Your second night in the desert will be spent here.
Essaouira
Day tours leaving from Marrakech
After you’ve recovered from the desert experience of a lifetime, it’s nice to chill out in the small, laid-back coastal city of Essaouira.
Again, using Marrakech as your base, you can take off in the morning and be in Essaouira well before noon. On the way to this lazy fishing port town, you will stop off at the Argan Tree Forests. The use of Argan Oil (also known as liquid gold) in Morocco is an ancient tradition. In this forest, you will learn about the production, witness the process, and be educated on its many health benefits.
Upon arrival to Essaouira, you will be guided efficiently around the city. Visit the bustling fishing port and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch from the harbor stalls. Tour the Essaouira Medina (much more laid back than the Marrakech Medina), and visit the Skala Kasbah. Walk or horseback ride down the 6-kilometer long beach. Finish the day by browsing various art galleries scattered throughout the town.
You will be returned to Marrakech in the early evening, relaxed and refreshed after a day by the ocean.
Ouzoud Waterfall
Day Excursion to Ouzoud Falls from Marrakech
Tucked away in a small village, three hours north of Marrakech, is a beautiful and natural piece of Morocco that many people aren’t fortunate enough to see.
Ouzoud Falls come into view, the feeling of having found your very own private Utopia is imminent. Upon arrival to the falls, the intense hustle and heat of Marrakech becomes a distant memory.
These falls are a wonderful way to appreciate the rugged beauty of Morocco. Nature paths line the perimeter, providing hiking trails around the falls with amazing, up close and personal views of the churning water.
The rock pools at the bottom are a lovely place to cool off after working up a sweat exploring the area. Relax at one of the few cafes next to the water pools and enjoy a cool drink while you soak up the serenity of Morocco’s best waterfall.
This tour has you back in Marrakech by early evening.
If you’re looking for a rich and unique cultural, beautiful landscapes, and non-stop adventure, then Morocco is it. The way the various races and ethnicities peaceful coexist is fascinating and witnessing it firsthand in an unbeatable experience. No traveler’s bucket list is complete without a trek through this unique country!
