Get Inspired

Tips & Tricks

Travel Guides

Who We Are

Top

Morocco

Morocco is a land of contrasts that surprises you at every step – a place where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with the charm of the modern world. Discover its charm while wandering through the lively souks of Marrakech, where every corner bursts with color, scent, and sound. Then escape into the stillness of the Sahara Desert, where nights spent under a sky full of stars feel like something out of a dream. Whether you choose to hike the spectacular trails of the Atlas Mountains, get lost in the winding alleys of medinas, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional riad, Morocco always offers an authentic experience, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

HIGHLIGHTS

Nature! From the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert to the majestic peaks of the Atlas Mountains, the country offers an incredible variety of scenery for travelers. Along the northern coast, Tangier blends dramatic sea cliffs with sweeping ocean views, while the bustling souks of Marrakech and Fes are perfect for experiencing the vibrant local culture.

Gastronomy! The use of ingredients like saffron, cumin, and preserved lemons gives Moroccan dishes their unique taste, making every meal a culinary journey.

Architecture! Charming riads featuring hand-crafted geometric mosaics, grand imperial gates, and centuries-old medinas that feel like open-air museums. Cities like Fes preserve the country’s deep-rooted history, while the blue-washed alleyways of Chefchaouen offer a dreamlike escape that’s unlike anywhere else on Earth.

People and Culture! From the warm hospitality of Berber hosts in the High Atlas villages to the lively conversations shared over mint tea in a Tangier café, every encounter reflects a living culture shaped by tradition, creativity, and storytelling.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to explore Morocco is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer a golden balance: warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds. It’s when the Sahara isn’t scorching, Marrakech isn’t melting, and the Atlas Mountains still whisper with a fresh breeze.

Spring is perfect for road trips, medina strolls, or hiking in the High Atlas. Summer (June to August) can be intense, especially in the desert regions – think 40°C and up. But if you’re heading to the Atlantic coast (Essaouira, Agadir), summer can be surprisingly pleasant thanks to the ocean breeze. Autumn, on the other hand, brings mellow light and deep colors, making cities like Fes and Chefchaouen even more magical. Winter (December to February) is mild along the coast but can be chilly inland or up in the mountains – you might even catch snow in Ifrane!

THE PERFECT 20-DAY ITINERARY

Begin your Moroccan journey in Fes, the country’s cultural heart, where labyrinthine alleys, centuries-old tanneries, and a deeply spiritual atmosphere transport you to another time. Continue north into the Rif Mountains to discover the serene charm of Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City — tranquil, photogenic, and full of charm. From there, travel to Tangier, a coastal crossroads where Africa greets Europe. Continue south to the capital, Rabat, where history meets contemporary elegance along the Atlantic coast. Your next stop is Casablanca, the country’s largest city, where art deco architecture meets ocean breeze. Be sure to visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque before boarding a train to Marrakech. Lose yourself in colorful souks, relax in rooftop cafés, then venture further into the dunes of Merzouga to watch the sun set in the dessert.

This route captures the essence of Morocco – from medina mazes to coastal calm, from mountain villages to imperial cities.

VACATION BUDGET

Whether you prefer backpacking adventures or want to enjoy more comfort in your travels, Morocco is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in North Africa.

Accommodation

From budget-friendly Options ($10–25/night) like hostels and simple guesthouses in cities such as Fes or Chefchaouen, to mid-range comfort ($30–70/night) found in beautifully restored riads with breakfast and central locations, boutique charm ($80–150/night) offering rooftop terraces and artistic interiors in Marrakech or Fes, and all the way to luxury escapes ($150–300+/night) including desert camps in Merzouga and spa retreats in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco’s accommodation scene truly has something for every style and budget.

Tips&Tricks: Morocco offers excellent value for money, especially if you’re flexible and travel like a local. You can stay in traditional riads, eat well, and reserve interesting experiences – all without spending a fortune.

Transportation

Morocco has a surprisingly efficient and affordable transport network, making it easy to explore everything from ancient medinas to remote desert villages.

Trains are the best choice for long-distance travel between major cities. The national train company ONCF connects cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Tangier, and Marrakech. Trains are comfortable, punctual, and cheap. A second-class ticket from Casablanca to Marrakech costs around $10–15.

Of course, buses are ideal for towns not connected by rail. For destinations like Chefchaouen, Merzouga or Essaouira, buses are the go-to option. CTM and Supratours are the most reliable companies, offering online booking and air-conditioned coaches. Prices range between $5–20, depending on the distance. Taxis are also cheap, but always agree on price or make sure the meter is running.

If you plan to visit the Atlas Mountains, desert regions, or small villages, renting a car offers the most freedom. Prices start from $25–40/day, but road conditions can vary, and driving in cities can be chaotic.

TRADITIONAL MORROCCAN CUISINE

Moroccan cuisine is a rich blend of Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and French influences, turning every meal into a cultural experience. It’s fragrant, colorful, and deeply satisfying – perfect for curious travelers.

VISA

Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, including most European countries, the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. So, if you hold a passport from one of these countries, you don’t need a visa – just a passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.

LANGUAGE

Arabic is the official language in Morocco, which you’ll hear in daily conversations, but across its cities and villages, you’ll hear a fascinating mix of Arabic, Berber, French, and even Spanish. Berber (Amazigh), the indigenous tongue, is widely spoken in rural areas, especially in the Atlas Mountains and the south, and has gained official recognition in recent years, with road signs often written in the unique Tifinagh script. French, a legacy of colonial history, remains dominant in business, education, and public life, while in the northern regions, Spanish is common, especially in Tangier, Tetouan, and Chefchaouen. Many Moroccans switch seamlessly between these languages, sometimes even in the same sentence. English, though not yet widespread, is increasingly spoken by younger generations and in tourist areas.

TIPS & TRICKS

1. Bargain in the souks – haggling is an essential part of Moroccan shopping culture. The first price you’re given is usually much higher, so smile, negotiate, and make a counteroffer. It often turns into a friendly exchange rather than a serious confrontation.

3. Drink mint tea – this sweet, refreshing tea is not just a beverage but a true symbol of Moroccan hospitality. Accepting a glass often leads to warm conversations and gives you a taste of the country’s authentic spirit.

2. Dress modestly – while Morocco welcomes tourists, it is still a country rooted in tradition. Wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees shows respect for the culture and helps you blend in better, especially in medinas, mosques, or rural villages.

4. Carry cash – although ATMs are available in big cities and some places accept cards, many small shops, markets, and local eateries deal only in cash. Keeping small bills handy makes everyday transactions much easier.

0

I Was There started in 2019 as a result of our enthusiasm to travel. Since then we've covered some big distances while learning to create the very best tailor-made itineraries that perfectly suit us. Today, our blog features a mix of travel stories and experiences, enchanting photos and useful guides to inspire you until next time you'll get back on a plane.

@2021 I Was There, All rights reserved.

I Was There
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.