Planning Your First Morocco Trip?
There is something so magical about Morocco. It feels like stepping into a storybook – an overcrowded one packed with the bright colors of textiles and the serene sands of the Sahara lasting into a crackling starlit sky.
So, if it’s your first Morocco trip, it might be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled here everything you need to know so you can make the best of your trip – places to visit, things to know when in Morocco, and tips to make your trip easy.
1. When to Visit
Morocco is just beautiful pretty much all year round, but the very best time to visit Morocco is in spring (March – May) or fall (September – November).
This is the time you would not have been exposed to the burning summer heat or the cold winter nights, particularly while you are venturing to the Sahara Desert.
Plus, the Moroccan beaches are great when you plan on staying close to the coast in the summer, as it’s sunny but not that hot.
2. How to Get Around
Getting around in Morocco can be part of the adventure. Trains are cheap and easy to get around major cities, linking Marrakech to Fez, for example, and Casablanca to Tangier, and so on.
Buses and private drivers would be a great bet if you’re going to smaller places to go in Morocco like Chefchaouen or to the desert.
If you want a bit of structure, Morocco Travel Organizer offers perfectly planned Morocco tours for first-timers, and our guides will tell you interesting stories and share local insider tips.
3. Where to Stay
Another unique part of any trip to Morocco is staying in a Morocco riad. These Moroccan homes feature typically serene, plant-filled courtyards along with beautiful tilework.
Morocco riads are available in cities such as Marrakech, Fez, or Chefchaouen, and you’ll get luxury as well as budget options.
For beach destinations like Essaouira, they offer boutique hotels synonymous with great ocean views. Most Moroccan accommodations are small pieces of paradise, whether a riad or a hotel.
4. Staying Safe and Healthy
For people wondering “Is Morocco safe?” Morocco, taken as a whole, is safe — well, provided you are a mindful traveler.
It’s good to always have enough cash and cards with you, though, and important to stay hydrated as well. Additionally, use good judgment in crowded areas, just to make sure everything runs smoothly.
And do deal carefully with the local Moroccan cuisine and Moroccan food! It might be delicious but you want to be careful with street food if you’re sensitive to new cuisines — there are tons of restaurants serving safe, authentic meals.
And there’s travel insurance, just in case.
Must-See Places to Visit in Morocco
Now for the fun part—what to see! The following list is about the best places to go in Morocco for an unbeatable experience.
1. Marrakech: The Red City
The starting point for most Morocco trips is Marrakech, and that’s just the place to begin enjoying the country’s kaleidoscopic culture.
For example, on your Marrakech day trips, you may go to the crowded Jemaa el Fna square to see snake charmers and food stalls as well as tellers.
You can purchase handmade spices, ceramics, and rugs in the maze-like souks (markets). Additionally, think about taking a day excursion from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains for some fresh air.
2. Fez Morocco: The Heart of Culture
The city of Fez is a must for those who love history. One of the world’s oldest universities is in Fez Medina, and it’s like a step into the past.
See how crafts are made by strolling down winding lanes lined with little mosques, artist’s workshops, and well-known leather tanneries. Wear comfortable shoes and give yourself a few days to tour the many historical places here.
3. Chefchaouen: The Artist Heaven
Located amongst the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is for photographers and artists, with its blue-painted streets and buildings; A good place for strolling and photo shoots.
Close hiking trails are there if you want to stretch your legs a bit. If you hate walking around or simply don’t like it, you can always go to a cafe and sip mint tea and just enjoy the calm atmosphere.
4. The Sahara Desert: The Night Under the Stars
No Morocco trip is complete without a tour of the Sahara desert Morocco. On your way, stop at Merzouga, a small desert town where you can (and will) jump onto a camel and ride it through the never-ending dunes.
Stay at a desert camp and watch the sunset on golden sands and stars gazing above the night sky. That’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best ways to appreciate Morocco’s diverse landscape.
5. Morocco Beaches: Relax and Unwind
Besides Morocco’s cities and deserts, don’t forget Morocco’s beaches on the Atlantic coast. Essaouira, Morocco, is a quaint seaside village that is a favorite among surfers and kiteboarders and is a great place for tourists who want a relaxed atmosphere.
Morocco beaches are a very good and pleasant surprise for all inland adventures if you are looking for that surf or just a little fresh air (or a walk on the beach).
6. Casablanca and Rabat: A Glimpse of Modern Morocco
If you enjoy being able to mix modern life with a historical experience then Casablanca and Rabat are for you. Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca has special and exquisite architecture with a seaside.
Meanwhile, Rabat, Morocco’s capital, has a calm beauty with sites like the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan Tower, which offer you a taste of the modern and ancient sides of Morocco.
Final Tips for an Amazing First Morocco Trip
- Mind the Etiquette: Your trip to Morocco is simple if you respect local customs; it’s a warm and welcoming country. In more traditional areas, dress modestly (especially if visiting religious sites) and always ask before photographing people.
- Pack Smart: Morocco has a varied climate. Light layers are your best friend—bring something light for the heat, a scarf to avoid the sun or dust, and something warm for the chilly desert nights.
- Savor the Flavors: Moroccan food is absolutely wonderful! Have a go at a hearty tagine, a taste of pastilla (savory pastry), and don’t forget the pastries. And, of course, start your day with a glass of mint tea (which is nearly the national drink!).
Ready for Your Adventure?
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You will always remember your first trip Morocco trip. The sounds, smells, and sensations of a nation with a rich and stunning cultural legacy. From riding a camel under the stars to exploring the alleys of Marrakech, there is something enchanted everywhere.
If you’re reaching for a hassle-free Morocco trip, this is your chance to get in touch with Morocco Travel Organizer—we specialize in creating memorable, custom experiences that take the stress out of planning. Just wait till you fall in love with Morocco!
