Morocco is a country that feels like stepping into a storybook. With its colours, rich history and diverse landscapes, there’s so much to explore and experience. When I visited Morocco, I was completely captivated by its beauty and the warmth of its people. In this Morocco travel guide, here are five experiences you absolutely must have when you travel to this incredible country!
1. Wander Through the Medina of Marrakech
The medina of Marrakech is a maze of narrow streets, markets (souks) and hidden treasures. The moment I stepped inside, I was surrounded by the sounds of people haggling, the smell of spices, and the sight of fabrics and crafts. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way!
One of my favourite places was Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square. During the day, it’s full of juice stalls, snake charmers and street performers. But at night, it transforms into a lively food market with all kinds of Moroccan dishes to try. I recommend trying the tagine—a slow-cooked stew that’s bursting with flavour.
Don’t be afraid to get a little lost in the medina. Some of the best discoveries happen when you’re not following a map. Just remember to bargain—it’s part of the experience! And don’t be afraid to try different foods. I once tried escargots (snails) there. At first, I regretted it because I didn’t like them, but now it’s a cool story to tell!
2. Soak in the unique landscape of the Sahara Desert
It's like living out a childhood dream. The vast, golden sand dunes stretched out as far as I could see, and the silence was almost magical. I went deep into the desert, where I spent the night in a traditional Berber camp.
As the sun set, the sky turned shades of pink and orange, and later, the stars came out in full force. I’ve never seen so many stars in my life! We sat around a campfire, listened to Berber music and danced. It was an unforgettable experience.
3. Explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen, also known as the Blue City, is one of the most picturesque places I’ve ever visited. The entire city is painted in shades of blue, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Walking through its streets felt like being in a dream—every corner was more beautiful than the last.
I spent my days in Chefchaouen wandering the quiet alleys, visiting the local markets and relaxing in small cafés. The pace of life here is slower, which was a nice change from the hustle and bustle of other Moroccan cities. Don’t forget to visit the Spanish Mosque at sunset for stunning views over the city.
4. Visit the Historic City of Fes
Fes is one of the oldest and most important cities in Morocco, and it’s a place where history comes alive. The medina of Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it feels like a living museum. As I walked through its narrow streets, I saw artisans working on traditional crafts, from leather goods to pottery.
One of the highlights of Fes is the Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest university in the world. The architecture is stunning, with complex tile work and beautiful courtyards. I also visited the tanneries, where they dye leather using traditional methods—it’s a bit smelly, but fascinating to see!
5. Relax in the Coastal City of Essaouira
After exploring the busy cities and deserts of Morocco, Essaouira was the perfect place to unwind. This coastal city has a laid-back vibe, with its charming medina, sandy beaches and fresh sea breeze. I loved wandering along the old city walls, watching the fishermen bring in their catch, and exploring the art galleries and shops.
The seafood in Essaouira is amazing! I had some of the best grilled fish and seafood tagine at the local markets. The city is also famous for its music, and I was lucky enough to catch some live Gnawa performances, which were full of energy and rhythm.
Morocco is a country that has so much to offer, from its ancient cities and markets to its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality. My time there was filled with unforgettable experiences, and I know there’s still so much more to explore.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own journey to Morocco. Trust me, it’s a trip you won’t forget.
-Written by traveller Ximena