15 Reasons You Should Visit Morocco

I write about travel to many countries so I have many favorite places I recommend. I love the waterfalls of Jamaica, the quaint fishing villages and diving opportunities in Bali, and snorkeling in St. John. I love shopping in Paris at the famous antique market where I fell in love with vintage hats and French lace fabrics from hundreds of years ago.

Choosing a favorite place to recommend is extremely difficult for me, and that is probably the number one question I get from people when they learn I am a travel writer.

But I do indeed have a favorite; Morocco.

Below are 15 reasons to visit Morocco;

1.We All Need a Vacation

The stress over the past few years since the pandemic began has been overwhelming. Around the world, people have suffered by losing loved ones, having devastating financial loss, losing businesses and jobs, and suffering from health issues.

Covid was an unprecedented global pandemic, which has affected us financially, mentally, emotionally, and of course, physically. For some of us, it may take a while before we are ready to splurge on a vacation, but things are slowly getting back to “normal”.

We could all use a trip someplace beautiful where we can relax and be pampered.

This pandemic has shocked us into the realization that life is precious and can end at any moment. Rather than keep us in fear, we should try to live our lives to the fullest, and one way to do that is to start checking off items on our bucket lists, beginning with taking that dream trip to a place you’ve always wanted to go.

2. Luxury, but Affordable Accommodations

Morocco is a place you can visit with very little money, yet live like a baller. Accommodations at 3-5 star riads, kasbahs, hotels, and luxury desert camps are much more affordable than you would expect. Click here for some of my favorite budget accommodations.

3. Cheap Flights

Airlines are trying to recover from the devastating consequences of the pandemic. Prices to Morocco can be expensive if you’re flying direct, but if you use Kiwi, Skyscanner, and Hopper they might be cheaper than you would think, particularly if you can be a bit flexible.

Although I have paid over $900 from NYC to Marrakech once for a direct flight because I wanted to go immediately, plus I had planned to bring my dog and needed a direct flight, many other times I have found tickets for $300-500.

If you can be flexible with dates, and you’re willing to do a short (or longer layover) in places like Paris, London, Madrid, or other amazing places to visit, I can show you how to get really good flights. Click here for more info on cheap flights.

4. Tours

Before Morocco, I skipped tours and explored on my own.

Other than Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tours, I never thought I would enjoy group or private tours. I thought they were expensive and as a former backpacker, I needed to save money.

In Morocco, tours are probably the best way to go. The roads are insane for one, so having an expert driver who can navigate around the absurdly narrow, winding roads, particularly around steep mountains, and especially during the dangerous rainy season when sudden mudslides can cause any driver to have a heart attack is reason enough.

But the list of reasons why tours are the best way to go is an entire article in itself. (Click here to read why, and which companies I recommend.)

The biggest reason I recommend tours in Morocco is that you can actually save money by going on a tour. Tour operators negotiate hard to get you the best deals, so often your accommodations, some or all meals, transportation, and activities will be included for a much lower price than you could possibly get yourself.

5. Architecture

The cultural diversity of Morocco and influences from France, Spain, Rome, and the Berbers is reflected in the exquisite architecture around the country. From majestic mosques to traditional riads and of course, the palaces and kasbahs, Morocco’s buildings are stunning.

Here, you will find “zellige,” traditional tilework, known as zellige, superb woodwork, elaborately carved doors, ceramics, marble, and plasterwork. Some of Morocco’s most beautiful buildings include the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh, the Grand Mosque in Tangier, and the Mosque and the University of al Quaraouiyine in Fes.

6. Hammams & Spas

The local hammams and spas are absurdly luxurious and decadent, and way cheaper than you will ever find back home.

You need and deserve, some pampering right now.

The first time I ever went to a hammam and got a body scrub and massage, I fought back tears. I felt like a newborn infant being tenderly cared for. And the dirt-cheap prices are criminally low, so make sure you tip well.

7. Food

Food in Morocco is cheap and healthy. Whether you’re looking to stick to a healthy diet to slim down, you’re a vegetarian, or you’re a carnivore looking to sample strange, but tasty meats, you’ll find a huge array of fantastic choices.

Bread is common with every meal, and there are various types, such as khobz, msemen, and baghrir.

Lamb, mutton, beef, and chicken are common meats, but you can also find such delicacies as “brains” and other unusual meats. Seafood and fish are especially plentiful in coastal areas. Sardines are popular, and inexpensive in Morocco. The most well-known Moroccan dishes include couscous and tagine. Pastilla, Bishara, harira, and brochettes are delicious baked pastries that are common.

Almost every hotel, riad, or camp offers an elaborately served breakfast, even at the cheapest hostels.

You can also find various types of ethnic foods, from 5-star, French cuisine to Italian restaurants to sushi spots. Local restaurants serve various ethnic dishes, from Chinese to Senegalese rice and fried fish meals, salad bars, and there are plenty of pizza spots.

If you’re in Marrakech, the food market comes alive at night in Djemma al Fna, where you’ll find hundreds of outdoor stalls with seafood, escargot, and fresh fruit juice vendors.

If you love Moroccan cuisine like couscous and tagines, you’ll find a huge variety of places to choose from no matter what your budget. You might even consider taking a cooking class so you host dinner parties at home and show off to your friends.

Said Hatouch is one of the amazing tour guides I’ve met in Morocco. He absolutely loves showing visitors his country and watching them fall as much in love with his homeland as he is. Click here for more information on Morocco Daily Tours.

8. The People

You might know that the day after I arrived in Morocco (on my latest of many trips), the first coronavirus case was diagnosed. Immediately, the government shut down the borders, including all flights in or out of Morocco.

I was stuck, unable to go home, filled with fear, doubt, and insecurity.

All residents and foreigners have been forced indoors in a lockdown, forced to quarantine at home. And all hotels and hostels closed indefinitely.

So, you may be surprised at my continued love for this place where I have become a prisoner, of sorts.

Two reasons; one, because of the governments’ swift action, the coronavirus epidemic has been somewhat contained, and its citizens and visitors are much safer than in places like NYC, where I am from. There is a huge chance that I, one of the higher risks for death from the virus, is alive and healthy.

And two, the reaction from Moroccan people when foreigners cried out for help was also swift. Comment after comment in many Moroccan visitor groups on Facebook that I am in was from locals and ex-pats offering a free place to stay for stranded tourists. I cannot express the deepest gratitude and awe that I have at the incredible generosity, love and kindness shown by Moroccan people.

I have always been amazed at the Moroccan hospitality that I have seen in the tourism business. But a part of me never quite believed it was based on people being truly giving. I simply expected that the level of high-quality service and hospitality was money-driven, with service rendered for payment.

I know now without a doubt that Moroccan people sincerely care about others.

9. The Recession

We are in a world recession. The tourism industry has been particularly hit hard. When times are tough, people tend to hoard money, but the way we are able to get out of our recession will be when people are able to relax once again, spending a bit when possible.

10. Trekking

Trekking in Morocco is pretty much the most amazing you will find, anywhere, ever.

From the High Atlas, the Middle Atlas, the Rif, to the Anti-Atlas Mountains trekking enthusiasts will be absolutely delighted with the peaks. You will be thrilled not only with the views, but your experience with nature will be filled with spectacular views of the forests, caves, snow-capped peaks, and the valleys below.

*Please be careful and make sure you find a qualified, skilled guide.

11. The Beaches

The beaches around the country will delight you. From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean coasts, whether you’re seeking the laid-back vibes of the hippy surf camps of Tagazhout or the chill, artistic flair of sleepy fishing villages like Essaouira where rastas play Bob Marley music as you watch the spectacular sunset behind the sea walls, you’re going to love it here.

12. The Sahara

If camping or glamping in the desert has always been on your bucket list, you can take a quick mini trip to Agafay, a weekend to Zagora, or explore a bit further, deeper into the Sahara where you can explore by 4×4, quad bike, or by camel.

Sand or rocky deserts await you, and you can choose to catch an amazing sunrise over the dunes first thing in the morning, or, if you prefer, sleep outside of your tent and stare up at the endless stars as you fall asleep. Either way, you will fall in love with the desert, as Amazigh nomads seduce you with simmered tagine meals, “Berber whiskey” or mint tea, and the sexy sounds of African drumbeats enticing you to dance.

Merzouga, M’hamid, Agafay, Erg Chebbi, Chegaga, and Zagora are some of your choices to explore the desert.

Ouarzazate, commonly referred to as the doorway to the desert, is a famous destination for both culture and film lovers. Be sure to stop by the famous movie studio in Ouarzazate on your way to the Sahara.

13. The History and Culture

The history, culture, and architecture of Morocco lure travelers from around the world, particularly the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, and Meknes. The impressive palaces, kasbahs, mosques, and medinas each have a special charm and appeal and should not be missed.

Morocco’s history encompasses influences from the Berbers, the Roman Empire, and the French and Spanish settlers who tried to claim the country as their own, they left their influence on Morocco.

14. The Shopping

The souks of Morocco have attracted people from around the world for centuries. Drawn by the evocative colors and scents and the overall sense of the exotic, most visitors cannot ignore the exciting, noisy chaos of the souks and markets that make the cities irresistible.

The souks and medinas have something for everyone, from Argan oils and antique silver jewelry to brass lanterns and fine leather goods, the shopping addict will go crazy over Babs Khamiss, Djemma al Fna, and the endless maze of overwhelming alleys and streets of Fez, Agadir, and other markets refusing to let you go until you fall madly in love.

15. The Festivals

From the famous yearly music festival of Essaouira to the Rose Festival in Kalat Mguna, to the International Film Festival in Marrakech, tradition and culture come alive no matter which festival you attend, so check out the country’s tourism board site to plan your trip around one or more of these exciting events.

• Bonus reason #16; the guys are cute. Seriously. If you don’t believe me, check this out.

Have you been to Morocco? What are your favorite reasons for visiting? If you’ve never been, which part of Morocco do you want to see first?

BEFORE YOU GO:

☑ Book your flight:  My absolute favorite sites for cheap flights are Skiplagged and Kiwi.com. I also find really great deals on Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo. The reason I’ve been able to get dirt cheap flights around the world is that I’m flexible, not only with travel dates but also with airlines, baggage, seat choices, etc.

☑ Book your accommodation: I always use Airbnb and Booking.com. If you’re on a budget, consider using  Hostelworld. If you click on the Airbnb link and you don’t have an account yet – you’ll get a $30 discount on your first booking.

☑ Protect yourself: Yes, I mean condoms, girl. But also, travel insurance. Travel insurance is a must, especially in a post coronavirus pandemic world. World Nomads and SafetyWing offer the best rates. 

☑  Do you need a visa? If you aren’t sure if you need a visa, it would be a smart idea to take a quick look before you go. You can use iVisa – it’s super useful and easy to use.

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For the best accommodations, and more tips & tricks when traveling to Morocco, check out these popular articles below:

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For more travel tips and tricks, and to learn about the world’s most romantic destinations, check out Love Lust or Bust!

This article was written by April Hope.

To learn more about her and her travels throughout Morocco and around the world, click here.