The Definitive Guide: 101+ Amazing Things to Do in Morocco
Introduction
Welcome to the most comprehensive guide to Morocco you’ll find anywhere online. As someone who’s traversed Morocco’s ancient medinas, slept under Saharan stars, and sipped countless glasses of mint tea with locals, I’m thrilled to share this magical North African kingdom with you.
Morocco stands at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, creating a fascinating cultural tapestry that’s both alluring and accessible. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, this guide covers everything from iconic experiences to hidden gems that most tourists miss.
In this regularly updated guide, you’ll discover Morocco’s mesmerizing diversity from the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to golden Sahara dunes, bustling imperial cities to tranquil coastal retreats. I’ve personally verified every recommendation, consulted local experts, and structured this guide to help you plan the perfect Moroccan adventure.
Why Visit Morocco?
Morocco offers an intoxicating blend of experiences that few destinations can match:
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Where Berber, Arab, European and African influences merge in architecture, cuisine, and daily life
- Breathtaking Landscapes: Desert, mountains, coastlines, and lush oases all within a day’s journey
- Culinary Delights: Fragrant tagines, delicate pastries, and the ritual of mint tea
- Warm Hospitality: Experience the legendary Moroccan welcome and generosity
- Exceptional Value: World-class experiences at prices that stretch your travel budget
- Accessibility: Just a short flight from Europe, with excellent infrastructure for travelers
Top 10 Must-Do Experiences in Morocco
If you’re short on time, these iconic experiences capture Morocco’s essence:
- Get Lost in Fes’ Ancient Medina : Wander the world’s largest car-free urban area
- Experience the Magic of Jemaa el-Fnaa : Marrakech’s famous square transforms from day to night
- Spend a Night Under Sahara Stars : Camp amidst towering dunes in Merzouga or Zagora
- Photograph the Blue City of Chefchaouen : Explore the photogenic blue-washed streets
- Hike the Atlas Mountains : Trek through Berber villages and dramatic landscapes
- Relax in a Traditional Hammam : Experience this purifying ritual at a local bathhouse
- Shop the Souks : Navigate colorful marketplaces for treasures to bring home
- Savor Authentic Moroccan Cuisine : Join a cooking class or food tour
- Catch Waves on the Atlantic Coast : Surf in Taghazout or windsurf in Essaouira
- Stay in a Traditional Riad : Experience courtyard living in converted historic homes
Things to Do by Major City/Region
Marrakech: The Red City
Marrakech delivers sensory overload in the best possible way, combining imperial grandeur with marketplace bustle.
Top Attractions in Marrakech:
- Jemaa el-Fnaa Square : Experience the heart of Marrakech as it transforms from day (orange juice vendors, snake charmers) to night (food stalls, storytellers, musicians)
- Bahia Palace : Marvel at intricate Islamic architecture and peaceful courtyard gardens
- Koutoubia Mosque : Admire Morocco’s largest mosque (non-Muslims can’t enter but can appreciate from outside)
- Majorelle Garden : Stroll through the vibrant blue gardens once owned by Yves Saint Laurent
- Saadian Tombs: Discover ornate 16th-century mausoleums hidden for centuries
- El Badi Palace : Explore atmospheric ruins of a once-magnificent palace
- Museum of Marrakech : Learn about local history and culture in a beautifully restored building
- Marrakech Souks : Navigate a maze of specialized markets selling everything from spices to lanterns
Beyond the Obvious:
- Take a calligraphy workshop at the House of Photography
- Visit the Marrakech Perfume Museum to create your own scent
- Attend a cooking class at La Maison Arabe or Amal Women’s Cooperative
- Explore the emerging art scene in the industrial Sidi Ghanem district
- Take a vintage sidecar tour through the Palm Grove
- Enjoy sunset drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the medina
Day Trips from Marrakech:
- Ourika Valley : Visit Berber villages and waterfalls just an hour from the city
- Agafay Desert : Experience desert landscapes without traveling to the Sahara
- Ouzoud Falls : Marvel at Morocco’s most beautiful waterfalls
- Essaouira : Day trip to the charming coastal town (though better with overnight stay)
Fes: Cultural Capital
Fes preserves Morocco’s intellectual and cultural heritage within its massive medieval medina.
Top Attractions in Fes:
- Fes el-Bali (Old Medina) : Lose yourself in 9,000 narrow streets and 40,000 doorways
- Bou Inania Madrasa : Visit this rare religious school open to non-Muslims
- Al-Attarine Madrasa : Marvel at exquisite zellige tilework and cedar carvings
- Chouara Tanneries : Observe traditional leather dying methods (bring mint leaves for the smell)
- Al Quaraouiyine : Glimpse the world’s oldest university from permitted areas
- Jewish Quarter (Mellah): Explore Jewish heritage with distinct architecture
- Merenid Tombs : Enjoy panoramic city views from these hillside ruins
- Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate): Pass through the magnificent entrance to the medina
Beyond the Obvious:
- Take a pottery workshop in nearby Sefrou
- Visit the Dar Batha Museum housed in a former royal palace
- Book a cooking class focusing on Fassi specialties
- Explore the modern Ville Nouvelle for a contrasting experience
Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl
This picturesque mountain town captivates visitors with its distinctive blue-washed buildings.
Top Experiences in Chefchaouen:
- Photograph the Blue Streets : Wander through photogenic alleyways and stairways
- Plaza Uta el-Hammam : People-watch at the main square
- Kasbah Museum : Learn about local history in the fortress-museum
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque : Enjoy sunset panoramas over the blue city
- Source Ras el-Maa : Visit the freshwater spring where locals wash clothes
- Shop for Local Handicrafts : Purchase handwoven blankets and garments
Beyond the Obvious:
- Take a day hike in Talassemtane National Park
- Join locals at a traditional hammam
- Arrange a home-cooking experience with a local family
- Visit on a Tuesday when the weekly market brings rural residents to town
Sahara Desert: Otherworldly Adventures
Morocco’s portion of the Sahara offers the quintessential desert experience with towering dunes and Berber culture.
Essential Sahara Experiences:
- Camel Trek at Sunset : Traverse golden dunes as the light changes
- Overnight in a Desert Camp ( Dihya Desert Luxury Camp ) : Choose from basic to luxury accommodations
- Stargazing : Witness the Milky Way without light pollution
- Sandboarding:– Slide down dunes on a rented board
- Visit Nomadic Families : Arrange respectful visits to learn about desert life
- 4×4 Desert Excursions : Explore further into the desert landscape
Local operators like Sahara Discovery offer expertly guided experiences ranging from single-day excursions to comprehensive multi day adventures. Their local Berber guides provide cultural context that transforms a simple desert visit into an immersive journey through Saharan traditions and landscapes.
Merzouga vs. Zagora:
- Merzouga : Taller dunes and more developed tourism infrastructure (recommended for most visitors)
- Zagora : Less crowded, historically significant caravan route (better for those seeking authenticity over dramatic dunes)
Atlas Mountains: Rugged Beauty
The three Atlas ranges offer trekking, cultural encounters, and dramatic scenery.
Top Experiences in the Atlas Mountains:
- Climb Mount Toubkal : Tackle North Africa’s highest peak (4,167m)
- Explore Berber Villages : Experience traditional mountain lifestyles
- Visit Aït Benhaddou : Explore this UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village)
- Drive Through Tizi n’Tichka Pass : Marvel at spectacular mountain vistas
- Hike Todra Gorge : Walk through impressive limestone canyons
- Ourika Valley : Combine waterfalls, villages, and mountain scenery
Beyond the Obvious:
- Stay in a traditional Berber guesthouse
- Visit weekly rural markets (each village has a designated day)
- Take a cooking class focusing on Berber cuisine
- Organize a multi-day trek with local guides and mule support
Coastal Morocco: Beach and Ocean
Morocco’s 1,200 miles of coastline offer Atlantic waves, Mediterranean coves, and coastal culture.
Top Coastal Destinations:
- Essaouira : Wander this artistic fortified town with perfect climate
- Taghazout : Join the surfer community in this laid back village
- Agadir : Enjoy resort amenities and wide sandy beaches
- Asilah – Discover whitewashed charm and cultural festivals
- Al Hoceima : Relax on Mediterranean beaches with Rif Mountain backdrops
Essential Coastal Experiences:
- Surfing Lessons : Learn to ride Atlantic waves at beginner-friendly breaks
- Fresh Seafood : Select your catch at portside markets for restaurants to grill
- Coastal Hiking : Follow dramatic cliffside paths between villages
- Bird Watching : Visit Souss-Massa National Park for flamingos and rare species
- Portuguese Fortifications : Explore historic defensive structures in Essaouira and El Jadida
Imperial Cities: Historic Splendor
Beyond Marrakech and Fes, Morocco’s other imperial cities offer equally rich history with fewer crowds.
Rabat (Current Capital):
- Hassan Tower : Visit the incomplete 12th-century minaret
- Kasbah des Oudaias : Explore the picturesque blue and white old fortress city
- Chellah : Wander Roman ruins intermixed with Islamic monuments
- Royal Palace : Admire the exterior of the king’s official residence
- Mohammed VI Museum of Modern Art : Experience Morocco’s contemporary art scene
Meknes:
- Bab Mansour : Photograph one of North Africa’s most elaborate gates
- Heri es-Souani : Marvel at massive granaries and stables built by Sultan Moulay Ismail
- Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail : Pay respects at this beautifully decorated tomb
- Dar Jamai Museum : View ethnographic collections in a 19th century palace
- Place el-Hedim : Experience a less touristy version of Marrakech’s famous square
Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems
Venture beyond the standard tourist circuit to discover these lesser-known treasures:
- Sidi Ifni : Art Deco architecture in a laid-back coastal setting
- Tafraoute and the Anti-Atlas : Strange rock formations and painted boulders
- Bhalil : Visit cave-dwelling communities and see traditional button-making
- Tétouan : Explore the UNESCO-listed medina with distinctive Andalusian influences
- Mirleft : Discover secluded beaches between dramatic cliffs
- Imilchil : Time your visit for the famous marriage festival
- Dakhla : Venture to this kite-surfing paradise in the disputed Western Sahara
- Larache : Experience authentic coastal life without tourist crowds
Things to Do by Interest/Activity
Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in Morocco’s living traditions:
- Visit a Traditional Hammam : Experience the ritual bath that’s central to Moroccan life
- Attend a Wedding Ceremony : Arrange through local connections to witness celebrations
- Learn the Art of Mint Tea : Participate in this daily ritual of hospitality
- Watch Gnawa Musicians : Experience this hypnotic traditional music with African roots
- Visit Rural Weekly Markets : Each village has a designated “souk day”
- Witness Fantasia Horse Shows : Traditional cavalry demonstrations (common during festivals)
- Learn Basic Darija (Moroccan Arabic) : A few phrases go a long way
Key Festivals:
- Festival of World Sacred Music (June, Fes)
- Gnaoua World Music Festival (June, Essaouira)
- Rose Festival (May, Kelaat M’Gouna)
- Date Festival (October, Erfoud)
- Imilchil Marriage Festival (September, Middle Atlas)
Adventure Activities
Morocco offers outstanding adventure opportunities:
- Hiking : Multi-day treks in diverse mountain ranges
- Rock Climbing : World-class routes in Todra Gorge
- Surfing/Windsurfing : Atlantic coast offers perfect conditions year-round
- Quad Biking : Desert and beach excursions
- Mountain Biking : Guided trips through mountains and palm groves
- Canyoning : Paradise Valley offers natural pools and jumps
- Skiing : Oukaïmeden offers unexpected winter sports from December-March
- Paragliding : Soar over coastal cliffs near Agadir or the Atlas mountains
- Hot Air Ballooning : Float over Marrakech and surrounding landscapes
Foodie Experiences
Discover Morocco’s celebrated cuisine:
Must-Try Dishes:
- Tagine : Slow-cooked stew named for its conical cooking vessel
- Couscous : Traditionally served on Fridays with vegetables and meat
- Pastilla : Sweet-savory pie often made with pigeon or chicken
- Harira : Hearty soup especially popular during Ramadan
- Mechoui : Slow-roasted lamb
- Zaalouk : Smoky eggplant salad
- Khobz : Fresh Moroccan bread essential to every meal
- Msemen : Square-folded pancakes served with honey or savory toppings
Food-Related Activities:
- Cooking Classes : Learn to prepare traditional dishes (widely available)
- Food Tours : Sample street food with expert guidance
- Spice Shopping : Learn about medicinal and culinary uses
- Winery Visits : Tour vineyards near Meknes and Essaouira
- Olive Oil Tasting : Visit traditional presses (best in November during harvest)
- Cheese Tasting : Try rare Berber cheeses in mountain regions
Shopping Guide
Navigate Morocco’s markets like a pro:
What to Buy:
- Carpets & Textiles : Hand-knotted rugs, blankets, and cactus silk items
- Ceramics : Blue pottery from Fes, colorful tajines
- Leather Goods : Poufs, bags, slippers from traditional tanneries
- Metalwork : Lanterns, teapots, decorative items
- Argan Products : Oil and cosmetics from this Moroccan superfood
- Spices : Ras el hanout, saffron, and custom blends
- Woodwork : Cedar and thuya wood items with intricate inlay
Haggling Tips:
- Start at roughly 40% of the initial price
- Maintain a friendly, respectful attitude
- Be prepared to walk away (often brings the best price)
- Bundle multiple items for better deals
- Small shops often offer better prices than major tourist areas
Relaxation & Luxury
Indulge in Morocco’s growing wellness and luxury offerings:
- Luxury Riads : Experience restored palaces with courtyard gardens
- Desert Luxury Camps : Safari-style tents with gourmet dining under stars
- Spa Treatments : Traditional and modern therapies using local ingredients
- Rooftop Yoga : Classes overlooking medinas or mountains
- Garden Tours : Visit Marrakech’s legendary gardens with botanical experts
- Private Dining : Arrange exclusive meals in historic settings
- High Atlas Retreats : Wellness centers combining mountain air with relaxation
Practical Planning Information
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Morocco has distinct seasonal variations:
| Season | Months | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar-May | Mild temperatures, wildflowers | Easter crowds | General sightseeing |
| Summer | Jun-Aug | Coastal breeze, mountain trekking | Extreme heat inland | Beach holidays, mountains |
| Fall | Sep-Nov | Warm days, fewer tourists | Occasional rain starts | Desert trips, cities |
| Winter | Dec-Feb | Low season deals, mild in south | Cold/snow in mountains, rain in north | Sahara, Marrakech, bargains |
Getting Around Morocco
Morocco offers diverse transportation options:
- Trains : Comfortable network connecting major cities (Tangier to Marrakech)
- Buses : CTM and Supratours offer reliable intercity service
- Grand Taxis : Shared Mercedes services between towns
- Petit Taxis : Metered services within cities (different colors in each city)
- Car Rental : Good roads but challenging urban driving
- Domestic Flights : Time-saving for distant destinations (Marrakech to Dakhla)
- Private Tours : Companies like Sahara Discovery offer comfortable, hassle-free transportation as part of their Morocco tours, with knowledgeable drivers who double as informal guides
Accommodation Guide
Morocco offers distinctive accommodation experiences:
- Riads : Traditional homes with interior courtyards, often luxuriously restored
- Dars : Similar to riads but smaller, often more affordable
- Kasbahs : Fortified buildings, many converted to hotels
- Desert Camps : Range from basic tents to luxury glamping
- Mountain Gîtes : Simple guesthouses in rural areas
- International Hotels : Available in major cities and resorts
- Hostels : Growing number of quality options for budget travelers
Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette
Morocco is generally safe but observe these guidelines:
- Dress modestly, especially women (shoulders and knees covered)
- Remove shoes when entering homes and religious buildings
- Use right hand for eating and receiving items
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Expect persistent vendors but maintain firm politeness
- Be vigilant against petty theft in crowded areas
- Respect Ramadan customs if visiting during the holy month
- Decline offers of “guidance” from unofficial guides
Basic Budget Guide
Daily cost estimates (per person):
- Budget: $30-50 USD (hostels, street food, public transport)
- Mid-range: $50-150 USD (riads, restaurants, some guided activities)
- Luxury: $150+ USD (luxury riads/hotels, private tours, fine dining)
Money-Saving Tips:
- Visit hammams during low-price morning hours
- Eat where locals eat, away from tourist zones
- Use public transportation instead of taxis
- Purchase fixed-price items rather than haggling for everything
- Consider group tours for desert excursions
- Travel during shoulder season (March-April, October-November)
Sample Itineraries
Classic Morocco: 10 Days
Day 1-3: Marrakech : Explore medina, gardens, palaces
Day 4: High Atlas : Day trip through Tizi n’Tichka to Aït Benhaddou
Day 5-6: Sahara : Desert experience with overnight camp
Day 7-8: Fes : Medieval medina exploration
Day 9: Chefchaouen : The blue city
Day 10: Casablanca/Rabat : Modern Morocco before departure
Traveler Tip: For a seamless experience, consider booking with reputable tour operators like Sahara Discovery. Their “Morocco Highlights” tour follows a similar route with the added benefit of an experienced guide who can provide cultural context and navigate language barriers, plus comfortable private transportation throughout.
Two-Week Explorer:
Day 1-3: Marrakech : City exploration
Day 4: Essaouira : Coastal charm
Day 5-6: Taghazout : Beach relaxation, surfing
Day 7-8: Paradise Valley & Agadir: Nature and resort comfort
Day 9-10: Sahara Desert : Merzouga dunes
Day 11: Fes : Medieval immersion
Day 12: Meknes & Volubilis : Roman ruins and imperial city
Day 13: Chefchaouen: Blue city wandering
Day 14: Tangier : International port city
For travelers short on planning time, Sahara Discovery’s comprehensive 14-day “Grand Morocco Tour” covers this exact route with the flexibility to customize certain activities based on your interests.
Conclusion
Morocco rewards travelers with incomparable diversity, offering experiences that range from serene to exhilarating, traditional to cutting edge. Whether you’re haggling in ancient souks, trekking through mountain villages, or watching the sun set over Saharan dunes, Morocco creates memories that linger long after you’ve returned home.
The country’s unique blend of African, Arabic, and European influences creates a cultural mosaic unlike anywhere else accessible yet peculiar, familiar yet mysterious. As you plan your Moroccan adventure, embrace the country’s contradictions and prepare for a journey that will engage all your senses.
For travelers who prefer expert guidance, specialized tour operators like Sahara Discovery can transform your Morocco experience through their deep local knowledge and established relationships across the country. Their range of tours from single-day excursions to comprehensive multi-week journeys accommodate various interests and timeframes while maintaining authentic cultural connections that independent travelers might miss.
I’d love to hear about your experiences in Morocco! Share your favorite discoveries in the comments below, or ask any questions about planning your trip. For more detailed information on specific destinations or activities mentioned here, check out our linked guides throughout this post
