Do you dream of a Thousand and One Nights, of tales and wonders, bewitchment and change of scenery? So let yourself be transported to the twelve most beautiful places in Morocco.
Close your eyes. Imagine. It’s hot. All around you, an architecture bursting with details and colors, squares overflowing with life, stalls piled up in the alleys, enticing smells, spices tickling your taste buds, friendly people at every door.
Travel a little further. Huge dunes, breathtaking mountains, a sea as far as the eye can see, ocher lands, houses in the rock, herds of goats in the villages.
You are in Morocco.
The good news ? The dream can easily come true. The worst? It will be difficult to choose which places to visit in Morocco as there is so much to discover. But don’t panic, we are here and we offer you a mini guide to the twelve most beautiful places in Morocco.
1. The Toudgha gorges
In southern Morocco, explore the Atlas mountain range. Take the road to the heart of the Toudgha Valley. Along the way, cut through limestone cliffs three hundred meters high. You enter Todgha’s lodges.
To visit Morocco and experience the beauty of its landscapes, the Toudgha gorges are among the most fabulous. You will have the feeling of being engulfed by these giants of nature. Then, the center of the gorges is accessible on foot. You will be able to soak in the water of Wadi Toudgha, the river which waters the valley and gives it its amazing fertility. During your walk, above all, look up! Don’t be surprised at the climbers you find clinging to the sides of the cliffs.
2. The Dades gorges
The Dades Gorges, Morocco
In an equivalent style, the Dades gorges are just as spectacular. They are located further west of the Todgha Gorge. They are another testament to the incredible beauty of southern Morocco. The houses blend into the rock, the views are breathtaking, the geological formations fascinating and the colors barely believable. For those wishing to visit Grand Canyon-like Morocco this is a place not to be missed.
For a lasting memory, admire the immensity of the Dades Gorge at sunset from one of the highest points above the road. Finally, you will notice that the latter are also the playground for hiking and climbing enthusiasts.
3. Merzouga and the dunes of the Sahara
Merzouga, Sahara Desert, Safari
It’s hard not to go through the Sahara when you want to visit Morocco. In the south-east of the country nestles the Saharian village of Merzouga. It is the ideal gateway to explore the largest Moroccan dunes. Also called Erg Chebbi, this lunar massif of the Sahara offers a real postcard landscape. Here, it is the desert, the dunes and the camels as you have always imagined them! As far as the eye can see, you will only find a sea of golden sand.
To enjoy this exceptional place during your stay in Morocco, many activities are available to you: camel ride, night under the stars with Saharouis nomads, night in Berber bivouacs or simply a sporty walk.
4. The Valley of Paradise
Paradise Valley in Morocco
A place that lives up to its name! Although this is a route known to tourists, we recommend that you visit this valley. Visiting Morocco is also discovering sumptuous oases. Precisely the Valley of Paradise is one of the most sublime. At the gates of Agadir, this natural wonder offers streams, waterfalls, natural pools of turquoise water, stunning gorges and great biodiversity. Do not hesitate to inquire about the hiking trails. With or without a guide, don’t hesitate to explore the paths less traveled. An opportunity to awaken the adventure within you during a trip to the lands of Morocco.
5. Ait-ben-Haddou
Aït-ben-Haddou, Morocco
Aït-ben-Haddou stands in the province of Ouarzazate. It is a Moroccan Ksar: a fortified village typical of the Maghreb, erected here on the side of a hill. Its value and preservation are so exceptional that the village is a UNESCO heritage site. You understand why this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco.
Aït-ben-Haddou is presented as a collection of red earth dwellings and corner towers surrounded by defensive walls. The ocher and caramel colors of the brick are breathtaking.
The little extra? The Ksar was the location of many filming: Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Prince of Persia or Game of Thrones. To the first who will find the cult scenes!
6. The Oasis of Fint
Oasis de Fint, Morocco
South of Ouarzazate, discover the Oasis of Fint. Meaning “hidden” in Berber, this enclave opens the doors to a true paradise. After visiting Morocco, you will understand that it is a land of striking contrasts.
Here, the lush nature of the palm grove contrasts with the blushing cliffs. The Oasis of Frint is also a marvelous witness to the ingenuity of Moroccans. The irrigation system allows a constant flourishing of vegetation in a harsh environment. Especially since palm grove plantations are never done at random …
7. The Ouzoud waterfalls
Visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls in Marrakech
Looking for what to visit in Morocco after enjoying the frenzy of one of the imperial capitals? The Ouzoud waterfalls will make you happy! It is undeniably one of the most natural sites in Morocco.
These waterfalls, one hundred and ten meters high, fall in waterspouts on three levels carved into the rock. To visit the Ouzoud waterfalls, follow a hiking trail leading you through the forest, meeting all kinds of merchants and monkeys. Be careful, they are real chipsters!
When you get to the feet of the waterfalls, you will feel tiny and you won’t resist the urge to approach these gigantic falls. Take a funny boat to cross to the other side and take a tagine break in front of the gigantic falls. On the way back, the panoramas are just as amazing. Find the place where you can see the rainbow over the waterfalls.
8. Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen, blue city, Morocco
To visit Morocco through its cities, there are several essentials. Among them: Chefchaouen or the blue city. Very photogenic, this small town is known for its facades, its arches, its alleys, its houses painted entirely in blue.
While surveying Chefchaouen, you will discover a city with surrealist decorations and whose charm operates immediately. The entanglements of the streets give the impression of an enchanted labyrinth. Impossible not to be captivated by this indigo maze, sometimes lively and electric, sometimes pale or soft.
Gaining height, the bluish hues of the city offer a magical panorama. While in Chefchaouen, be sure to admire this view at sunset.
9. Marrakech
Visit Marrakech in Morocco
Obviously you think of Marrakech if you are asked what to visit in Morocco. But as far as you have escaped, we can confirm that the tourist capital is indeed one of the most beautiful places in Morocco. Day and night, the red city exerts an incredible attraction:
The crazy atmosphere of Jamaa El-Fna Square;
The superb Marjorelle Garden
The marvelous mazes of the souks;
Itinerant businesses;
The unmissable Palm Grove of Marrakech
The omnipresent colors and lights;
Couscous à tir larigot;
The exotic and majestic gardens;
The crumbling palaces of ornament and detail;
Historic buildings and the Koutoubia Mosque;
Secret and refined raids;
The rooftops overlooking the incredible Medina.
In short, in Marrakech, you will find your atmosphere a thousand and one nights.
10. Fes
Fes, Morocco
Do you want to visit refined, historical and artistic Morocco? Then direction Fez, a mythical city full of attractions.
The Medina, or old town, of Fez is reputed to be the most beautiful in the country. Its charm comes from its ubiquitous traces of the past. The imprint of history is drawn on every school, mosque or alley. The best thing is to get lost in these colors of time.
A visit to the Chouara tannery in Fez is also a must. Stroll between the pools and then gain height on these colorful terraces. One of the most beautiful shows alive during your stay at la fassis.
Morocco is also known for its ceramics and it is in Fez that you will find the most beautiful works. Their characteristic? This piercing blue whose recipe remains secret. A pottery from Fez is one of the best souvenirs to bring back from a trip to Morocco.
11. Essaouira
Visit Essaouira in Morocco
For a Moroccan stay, why not visit Morocco from the sea side? Essaouira is a port city with a fresh and authentic atmosphere. Stroll on its port where hundreds of boats float around, take a tour of its ramparts and savor the delicious products straight from the sea.
Essaouira is a favorite destination to visit in Morocco if you are looking for more peace and quiet. The general atmosphere is enveloping, the colors are soft although you will find a certain effervescence at the fishermen’s auction or in the souks. Essaouira is also a pearl for photographers since its sunsets are reputed to be among the most beautiful in Morocco.
12. Dakhla
Dakhla Lagoon, Morocco
Dakhla stands for vastness and pristine land. It is an ideal place to visit Morocco off the beaten track. In the extreme south of Morocco, the place merges between desert and ocean. The sand dunes are white, the landscapes sometimes lunar, the crystal clear waters, the wild beaches and it is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Apart from them, few people still know this jewel on the Moroccan side.
The Dakhla lagoon, its wild beaches and the Dragon Island are little paradises for basking in the sun, discovering the natural pools or camping under the stars. Around Dakhla, you can also enjoy a desert excursion, a free fish pedicure session in Imlili or the Asmaa hot springs.
