Morocco Travelers Recommend

If you’ve explored the Marrakech medina and haggled for bargains in the sprawling souk, heard storytellers weave their magic in the Djemaa el Fna square, and dined al fresco on Moroccan cuisine, it’s time to travel further afield to discover more of the magic of Morocco. Marrakech sits in the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, North Africa’s chain of mountains linking Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. Here, the High Atlas range is cut by the Draa River and Ourika Valley, 30km (19 miles) from Marrakech. The oasis-like Ourika Valley is a popular day trip destination from Marrakech, offering glimpses of waterfalls, unspoilt landscapes and encounters with Morocco’s traditional Berber people. The ancient Berber trails winding across the Atlas Mountains cover some pretty rough terrain, so it is best traveled by off-road 4WD on a longer day trip excursion.

Marrakech makes an excellent base for venturing into the rolling dunes, palm groves, beaches and foothills of the Atlas Mountains for some thrilling outdoor adventures. When you think Morocco you probably also think desert, and rightfully so. Camels still serve as a primary mode of transportation here, and a camel trek through the Palmeraie just outside the city is one of the best ways to experience this striking landscape. To contrast old and new, combine camel trekking or horseback riding with some 4WD quad biking as well. You can also take a trip to the mountains, the Atlas Mountains' proximity to Marrakech makes them a perfect day trip destination for adrenaline-seeking travelers. The Atlantic Coast of Morocco is also within day-trip-distance of Marrakech. But you don't even need to leave the city to enjoy the great outdoors. Bicycle, Segway and walking tours are fun, easy and eco-friendly ways to explore the city.

Marrakech can take a bit of getting used to. It’s busy, it’s hot. Get a feel for the place and its rich history by heading into the medina. Visit the beautiful palaces including the 19th century Bahia Palace, intended to be the greatest palace of its time. Wander the maze of narrow streets and try not to be overwhelmed by all the activity in Djemaa el Fna square. Linger here until evening and sample the local foods. If gardens are your thing, or if you just need to see trees rather than people for a while, head out to the Majorelle Gardens, designed by expat French artist Jacques Majorelle. Of course, you must go shopping in the souk! The markets here sell everything you can imagine and it’s as much about performance as trade with haggling raised to an artform. You can buy everything from fruit and vegetables, to spices, clothing, leather, jewelry, furniture, and of course, souvenirs. Marrakech is also about hammams, relaxing and healing through water and massage.

The sights, sounds, and history of Marrakech are intoxicating, but after a while the Medina can come to seem a bit cramped and crowded. If you're looking to get out of the chaos for a bit, a camel ride maybe just the ticket. Just a short way out of the city center of Marrakech is open skies, graceful palm groves and authentic, welcoming Berber villages. By taking a camel ride day trip from Marrakech, you can learn how to mount and ride a camel while wearing the traditional protective scarf of desert travelers. And then off you go to see a part of Moroccan life that dates back centuries and gives you a whole new perspective on your Marrakech experience. It's best to book a camel ride in advance through a reputable guide; there is no one place that offers the rides, so it's not the same as “showing up” in a spot and waiting your turn. It's a daylong adventure that can include guided talks, lunch with local families, and, of course, lots of photo ops.

You can’t visit Morocco without paying a visit to the cultural capital of Marrakech, a city of contrasts that is as bewildering as it is enchanting. Less than 2.5 hours south of Casablanca, it’s possible to visit Marrakech on a day trip, but with so much to see and do, multi-day trips can also be a great way to take in all the sights. With only a day to spend in the city, start off with a visit to the UNESCO-listed medina, the heart of historic Marrakech, centered around the bustling square of Djeena El Fna. This is the central hub of the city, where you can lose yourself in the labyrinth like souks, tuck into steaming tagine at a rooftop restaurant and be entertained by a constant stream of snake charmers, fortune-tellers and street musicians. Spend the afternoon checking off the sights with a tour of the opulent Bahia Palace, a visit to the 16th Century Ben Youssef Medersa and a stroll around the colorful Jardin Majorelle, owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Start your day with a trip to the Marche Central where you can stock up on picnic supplies, then take a walk through the lively United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square, home to some of the city’s most important buildings. Head to the nearby Ligue Arabe Park for lunch, then spend the afternoon wandering around the souks of the Old Medina or admiring the elegant architecture in the Habous Quarter. Casablanca’s most scenic stretch is the Ain Diab Corniche, which runs west of the port along the seafront. Start with a visit to the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque, perched on a cliff-top overlooking the ocean, then head to the shrine of Sidi Aberrahman, before hitting the beach in the afternoon. Morocco’s biggest city is also an important transport hub, so there’s no excuse for not exploring further afield. Take a day tour to the capital of Rabat, where you can admire the views from the landmark Hassan Tower; visit the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis.