Itineraries from Major Cities

To ease your trip planning, we have prepared several itineraries for exploring Morocco, whether you start in Tangier, Casablanca, Fez, Marrakech, or the countryside. They cover travel times ranging from a couple of days to two weeks. We suggest different destinations and related historical sites, natural landscapes, and experiences to give travelers a full sense of Moroccan culture and the region. Before beginning any of these itineraries, we also have a page devoted to the key dilemmas facing travelers to Morocco. Most trips to Morocco begin in the cities of Tangier, Casablanca, Fez, or Marrakech. Furthermore, for travelers interested in the natural and cultural regions of southern Morocco, we provide several itineraries that begin in Agadir, Errachidia, and Ouarzazate. The goal of these itineraries is to demonstrate that each city has its qualities and history, but they remain mostly symbolic considering the length of the journey. To explore the city on the best day, see our suggestions on one day in each city; days two and three, for example, will offer improved experiences managed around the town’s main center. Depending on how people live there, they may experience a feeling of Moroccan culture that other towns do not provide. Each city has its own qualities and history, but they are mostly symbolic due to the route’s length. The recommended routes touch on the main cities and towns for travelers. These are the routes that most travelers take and are far easier to acquire while traveling in Morocco.

2.1. Morocco Itinerary from Tangier (4 to 10 days)

Don’t entertain any illusions; Tangier is undoubtedly the least typically Moroccan destination in the country. For this reason, it’s the ideal destination to pair with a trip to Andalucia. A mere 13 km across the Strait of Gibraltar separates Tangier from the Spanish coast, and for more than four centuries, it stood as a major point of entry for the less-than-virtuous seafarers of Europe. As a result, this town’s medina is infused with a subtle blend of Spanish-Moorish cultures and a seedy undercurrent. It has also been eclipsed as the capital of hashish smuggling since the 1970s. The seaside enclave of Ceuta is twelve km west of Tangier, while Melilla can be found 74 km down the coast. By utilizing public transit for these excursions, you may explore a small piece of Spain on the North African coast, much like the locals living there do.

Four days is the minimum amount of time required to visit Tangier; although the longer one stays, the more enjoyable the experience will be. We recommend spending 7 days in order to truly soak in the ambiance. Outside of the tourist-infested summer, extended vacations of 10 days are strongly recommended as a means of fully appreciating life in Morocco. Keep in mind that the holy month of Ramadan is not an ideal time to visit the Muslim world, and it isn’t the ideal moment to visit Tangier either. A simple itinerary for a multi-day visit to Tangier is given below:

2.2. Morocco Itinerary from Casablanca (recommended for 12-18 days)

Casablanca

Freedom to order this itinerary is anywhere in the world.

Recommended Time Required: 12-18 days

This is a great itinerary for those new to Morocco who want a well-rounded experience. You’ll have time to really explore most of Morocco’s diverse regions and their most immediate surroundings. Several days provide the opportunity to mingle with local Moroccans and truly immerse yourself in their culture. Cities are modern to facilitate smoothly handling any travel issues.

Day 1: Arrive Casablanca

Arrive in the Kingdom of Morocco’s largest city and its economic heart – Casablanca.

Spend some time getting lost in the streets of town. This is a big city, don’t worry about getting unintentionally lost in the little streets.

One thing to do and possibly the only major landmark in this city to educate yourself about is a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, a very exclusive and important architectural and spiritual site. Make sure to check for advanced tours as there are only limited numbers of people who can walk inside each day.

Evening: find yourself a seat at a café in the main port area and just watch the world. There are cafés along the waterside of the Medina and you could watch the old men casting their fishing lines into the rough waters on the other side of the break walls. Have dinner at a local Moroccan restaurant. Tagines are very popular in Morocco; try to avoid the tourist touts in the little Medina restaurants.

Day 2: Casablanca & the Coast

Take a day trip to Rabat, the capital of Morocco.

Day 3: North to Tangier

Continue your overland journey to Tangier.

Days 4-5: Tangier

Walk around town.

Day 4: Visit the Caves of Hercules at Cape Spartel.

Note that this is the World Heritage-listed site of St. Andrew’s Church and the Cape of Malabata Coast.

2.3. Morocco Itinerary from Fes (4 to 8 days)

Overview One of Morocco’s imperial cities, Fes is a city with a rich history and a wealth of experiences to share. This itinerary starts with a comprehensive guide to the sites of Fes, from its Medina to its numerous historic buildings and neighborhoods, to a range of attractions and activities in close reach. Throughout, the focus is on traditional crafts, traditional eateries, and experiences that reflect the past and present of life in Morocco. Detailed information is provided on visiting local and artisanal sites and learning about local traditions, including local cooperatives and guided tours to relevant sites. Additional information is provided on what sorts of tours can be arranged, information on guides, and details on addresses of interest. The final section in this itinerary offers two possible add-ons for a restful break or a final adventure. Note that this is a lengthy tour and can be adapted to suit your desired pace. If you’d like to be away for less time, options are suggested throughout the overview. The guide begins with a raft of background information on Fes, as well as local crafts and traditions, and on travel to and within Fes. Duration and pacing, reading time; as just suggested above, this is a longer itinerary that can be adapted to suit your time frame. Tours should also be arranged and can be adapted locally to include or exclude a visit to the Palais el-Mokri, likely if it’s hot.

2.4. Morocco Itinerary from Marrakech (4 to 12 days)

Morocco itinerary – exploring Marrakech and beyond in 4 to 12 days. Beginning in the chaotic city, this is a comprehensive Morocco itinerary with the best day trips included in the guide.

Morocco itinerary 4-12 days from Marrakech to Fes. If you are flying into Marrakech and fancy a coast break before flying home, then plan for a 10-12 day Morocco itinerary. It might seem daunting to have to fill 10 days in just one city, but not only is Marrakech wonderful in itself, but there are plenty of day trips that you can take to both the mountains and the coast.

DAY 1-4: Marrakech – a city of overwhelming delights. For the first four days in Marrakech, simply familiarize yourself at a slow pace. The city and the medina can be overwhelming, so let it. During these days, stroll through 2 of the traditional souks, buy fresh pottery, and rest while watching the mint tea dances. Visit the fabulous Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, Badia Palace, and Museum of Marrakech located in the old medina. Hire a table under the Koutoubia Mosque at the Koutoubia café, and look at the passing trade going on in the mosque. Furthermore, visit the fabulous Jardin Majorelle. Explore the long boardwalk of Hivernage, and dine at a rooftop restaurant that centers on the medina. Did we say it would be a bit hectic? You can always take a day off and relax by one of the calm pools.

2.5. Morocco Itinerary from Agadir (6 to 10 days)

2.5. Morocco Itinerary from Agadir (6 to 10 days)

Agadir’s cosmopolitan scene is mainly about relaxation, thanks to the long sandy beaches. Whether you are planning on visiting this part of Morocco to unwind from your previous travel experiences, master the art of surfing, or splitboarding in the stunning Atlantic Coast, then this section is for you keen folks.

Please mind that the following itinerary showcases how to travel from Agadir ranging from 6 to 10 days, but if you plan to spend a little longer somewhere, then it is best to replace a couple of chill days from Essaouira or Agadir.

When visiting the beach side of Agadir, expect to experience a wide selection of seafood and tagine dishes, along with less traditional dishes enjoyed by tourists on holidays from Europe. From cultural experiences in local markets to water sport activities and hiking through the Atlas Mountains, tagged with a few extra days exploring quaint little nearby Berber souks found in the towns of Tiznit or Taroudant, this is a place to extend your stay. To make the most of the spring and especially in autumn, when the seawater is still warm and the southern side of the Atlas Mountains is still sunny, enjoy it to the fullest. Supplement your water activities with beach time, delve into lazing and strolling around the nearby villages, and meet the Berber communities.

2.6. Morocco Itinerary from Errachidia (3 to 5 days)

For those who aren’t able to traverse the entire length of the Tafilalt Region and who land in the small regional airport of Moulay Ali Cherif in Errachidia, there are plenty of worthwhile cultural and natural sights to visit that are close by. In three to five days, you can visit the large town known for its great travel connections, the oasis village of Hassi Labied just outside of Merzouga, and even explore the desert. Start out by discovering the towns of Sigou, Er-Rissani, and Merzouga located in the lower part of the Ziz Valley, where the Mediterranean species of figs and pomegranates begin giving way to the Saharan ones – such as date palms.

In Rissani, you should head to the recently restored Ksar Tissergate and the Ksar El Fida, both of which provide a glimpse into the traditional Moroccan architecture of the Tafilalt. Closer to Rissani, the Ksar El Khorbat is a fantastic museum that will introduce you to traditional Berber culture and society. Merzouga is a small Saharan village, but it’s the perfect spot to discover the east of the Tafilalt and the only one from which to head out on a desert journey (3 days minimum recommended to fully appreciate the region). Even those who can’t stay that long will appreciate the nature: the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi that mark the edge of the Sahara are beautiful and unique in all of North Africa. If you stay longer, try sandboarding, camel trekking, or stargazing. Opt for the three to five-day itinerary if you’re interested in cultural activities.

2.7. Morocco Itinerary from Ouarzazate (4 to 6 days)

This itinerary is typically for 4 days, more if you include day trips and additional nights in one of the guesthouses. Day 1: An Introduction to Ouarzazate You’ve just arrived from Marrakech, and the Atlas Film Studios are only 5 km/3 miles away, marking a few days venturing through the Draa River valley, the gateway to the Sahara to the east. Begin with the Atlas Film Studios, then take an extended tour of the prominent Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site where many films were shot. This area is replete with truly ancient kasbahs, nature, and culture. Head back to Ouarzazate to enjoy dinner and a walk around town if time allows. Day 2 in Ouarzazate: Ksar in Your Eyes and Your Hands Spend day 2 strolling in Ouarzazate, and/or explore more of the Draa River Valley. Request a professional guide to get the full experience, and opt for a private car or inexpensive shared transport. If you’re feeling energetic, one or two day trips could see you exploring the Draa River Valley area, heading east to Skoura, then down to Agdaz, and west through the palmery and flats all the way to the edge of the Sahara at M’hamid. Alternatively, another day trip would take you southeast from Ouarzazate along the Draa River valley to Kalaat Mgouna, and take the smaller road east to Bouamdass on the Dades River. Carve out at least a few hours to visit the Marché de la Kasbah in the Mellah, near the Ksar Ait Yeazmine. Grab a guide map and help support the regional artisan craft associations of Ouarzazate and Tigamlamin.

3. Cultural Highlights of Morocco

Morocco is a country of multiple traditions and social practices and has developed different arts in order to shape and keep its long history. Music is always connected, in all its styles, with the region or ethnic specificity. This talented and inherited tradition of Morocco is what interests most of the visitors. Foreigners are deeply thrilled by these musical jewels and various dance shows that can only be seen in a Muslim country. Moreover, people in the visited countries always love to assist at local popular traditional celebrations, and one of the most interesting things about these traditional occasions is the local fashion and the actions of the invited people.

Visiting the goums or souks is also the best way to discover the handicraft and better understand Moroccan history, traditions, and customs. For example, the kasbah of Oudayas, in the middle of Rabat and Salé, the oldest place in Africa dating back to more than 3000 A.D., is a living fragment of Morocco. The history of the city is visible through all manual crafts subjects or architectural forms. Then, foreigners will have time to visit the Moulay Ismail kasbah in Meknes and the other in Taza. Museums and arts festivals are also the best sites that discover intangible Morocco. The national museum of El Batha in Fez exhibits a huge collection of Moroccan popular arts and ancient products. The local community customs also enable the visitor to get in touch with real people. For instance, visiting Ouarzazate or Agdz, especially during cultural market days, is a must. It is an important rendezvous where people can exchange traditions.

4. Natural Wonders of Morocco

Morocco’s geographical diversity is awe-inspiring. First of all, you have the Atlas mountain range, running diagonally down the middle of the country, dividing the west from the east. Then you have the Sahara desert occupying the southeast of the country. Morocco has a marvelous coastline, extending along the Atlantic to its south, and northward along the Mediterranean. Needless to say, Morocco has some extraordinary natural scenery. Whether you are navigating desert dunes, picking your way over rocky trails, trekking in forests, or walking through wildflower meadows, Morocco is a paradise for outdoor adventurers.

The Atlas range is the biggest mountain chain in North Africa and spans a considerable 2,400 km across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. In Morocco, there are three sections: the High Atlas, the Middle Atlas, and the Anti-Atlas. Morocco has an approximate 3,500 km of coastline; the coastline along the Mediterranean is over 500 km, while the coast along the Atlantic travels for 2,000 km. The most towering coastal point in Morocco is found in El Jebha – an imposing 1,400 m. The best times to walk in the park are from February to June and September to October, to avoid the mid-summer heat when temperatures can get extremely high. Ibex, porcupines, crows, Barbary macaques, and the notoriously hard-to-find wild boar are all local to Tazekka. These essential ways support Tazekka’s uniqueness, so it’s a good idea to get some grasp of this strangeness while discovering the park. If reluctant to roam solo through Tazekka, either of the park’s pathways can easily and reasonably be done under the leadership of one of the area’s guides.

5. Culinary Experiences in Morocco

The link between food and culture is at the heart of Moroccan life, as conversations on flavors, olive oil, spices, herbs, and available wild products are the first ice breakers in each region. The diversity of Moroccan cuisine is eloquent as you travel from the northern coasts to the deserts, going through the Atlas Mountains and coastal cities—each place with a different sea product used as the basis of the local dishes. There are last, but not least, Turkish pastiches—which were baked, deep-fried, or cooked on the stoves in a very original way in Morocco. There is no better way to enjoy Morocco from a historical and traditional perspective than prowling local markets, tasting authentic food alongside locals, and talking to merchants. Not keen on street food? No worries: plenty of simple cafes, refined and historical classic restaurants, as well as cooking classes offered in various cities will help explorers feed their passion for the exploration of new culinary repertoires.

Few dishes embody the diversity and splendor of Moroccan cuisine quite like the tagine. The original tagine pot is behind the name of the main Moroccan cooking dish, and it is made of heavy clay, which allows slow cooking over the stove in convection as well as a hot Moroccan oven. The spices that flavor each tagine depend on availability, cost, and local taste, resulting in a vast array of flavor combinations. Since couscous is versatile and serves as the base for at least 25 different types of dishes, you are bound to have it more than once during your visit. Couscous served with seven vegetables is usually a family meal, while those mixed with meat and fruits could be distinguished according to their main ingredients such as chicken wings, chicken meat, meatballs, and lamb chops. Don’t miss also a “hard to make dish” that could be associated with special events, composed of rather difficult ingredients: the crunchy pastilla filled with salty spices, chicken, almonds, and around five layers of dough sprayed with sugar and cinnamon.

6. Travel Tips for Visiting Morocco

Before you visit Morocco, inform yourself about the traditions and customs of the local people. Their customs are known for their friendliness, but their rules and practices are different from what you may be accustomed to. Their currency is the Dirham. Newcomers are often approached by eager locals who want to exchange your foreign currency. Avoid this, because without a license to change money, it means the money will be counterfeit. A good rule is to cover your shoulders, chest, and thighs, but a little more exposure when you’re in touristy places is acceptable. Public displays of affection are considered indecent and are best conducted in private. Women should take care as unwanted interest may manifest as harassment, and wearing a number of thin layers is a good option. This way, if you venture to the colder elevations, the layers can keep you warm. No matter where you are, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and travel with closed-toe shoes, as gravel, rainwater, and gross sandals can be more of a hindrance.

You are required to have a valid passport and visa to visit Morocco, and depending on your nationality, you may need to apply before you travel. Check your home country for what documents you will need in order to visit Morocco.

There are many ways to travel around Morocco, from flights to train services and bus services. The train schedule can be easily found, and pre-purchase of tickets is not a common challenge. If you like, there are buses that travel between big towns and can be reserved. Otherwise, for more flexibility, you can catch a local bus in person, as this avoids paying inflated ‘tourist’ prices. Note that unless you use hired local drivers, this will make you extremely vulnerable to scams. If you drive in Morocco, you’ll be driving hard as driving is wilder than anything you’ve ever experienced. Stay alert for pedestrians or other hazards suddenly appearing on the road. Morocco is generally safe, but it is also a good idea to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Pickpocketing is a problem, and talking to your country’s embassy to obtain information in the event of an attack is a good initiative. If you don’t speak Arabic or Berber, locals will generally not be able to understand you, but English, French, and Spanish are widely spoken languages. The following Arabic phrases may assist you: Salaam Alaikum, Wa Alaikum Salaam, Shukran Lak, B’salaama. Summarize your feelings and impressions by using the following terms: Jayyid Kteer, Mzeen, Galling, Atyef!

When it comes to food, Morocco is best known for its delicious cuisine. Drinking tap water isn’t usually advisable, so stay safe and stick to bottled water. If you get sick, the markets in major cities sell bananas and rice. If you’re unsure about food safety, stick to fruits you can peel yourself or eat cooked food that is still piping hot.

7. Transportation Options in Morocco

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco is home to a variety of transportation links, with a well-established network of train routes, bus routes, and highways. Trains, catering to both long and short distances, provide a comfortable and timely travel experience, which is more suitable for long-distance travel, while the newer express bus services connecting the major cities are attractive, and the ticket prices can be up to half the price of those of the trains, which are loved by backpackers who are concerned about the fees. New bus lines are opening up within the range of the Atlantic coast, such as Rabat and Casablanca. In addition, there are also some internal flights connecting the two popular travel cities of Marrakech and Fez, which can save travel time without taking the long ride. Travel by train: The train system of Morocco is the most developed among the countries of North Africa, which makes traveling in Morocco relatively more convenient and efficient. There are two cross-continental express routes between Casablanca and Fez, Rabat and Marrakesh, and more trains are available from most towns to other nearby ones, making Morocco’s smaller towns more easily reached by train. Travel by bus: Buses serve as a primary mode of local transportation in Moroccan cities. In addition to traveling around a certain city, buses also run between major towns. There are two types of buses in Morocco: ordinary ones and luxury coaches. The former is mainly used by locals for short distances. Taxis: Morocco has two different types of taxis: the “grand taxis” and the “petit taxis”. The former’s route is from town to town, whereas the latter operates only within the city. It is, therefore, the most commonly used type of transport for travelers to get around the city in Morocco. Car rental: It is quite safe to drive in Morocco. More and more companies are offering car rental services. In the first instance, you are required to possess an international driving permit or a temporary Moroccan permit to drive in Morocco. Most cars for rent are provided with automatic transmission suitable for most travelers. However, to avoid car breakdowns and emergencies, it is better for you to check a car’s condition before renting it. In addition, by renting a car with a professional driver, you will avoid the potential dangers of driving.

8. Accommodation Choices in Morocco

The 8th day – A new journey began Part 1

Accommodation is the single most important concern while traveling for many tourists. Morocco offers a vast selection of overnight options, meaning something is available to cater to most needs. Choices span from luxurious, notably riads, historical hotels, charming and modest guest houses, or various types of private rentals and self-catering apartments to more standard and budget-friendly hotel options and hostels. Quality and total character can vary, although competition is steadily improving property standards, and there is an increasing move by various establishments to affiliate with recognized green standards.

The traditional homes (dar or riad) and palatial townhouses are an attraction in themselves, as they often take the form of beautiful, unique, and typically Moroccan architectural wonders. Many feature carved stucco plasterwork designs, handmade mosaics, water fountains, open courtyards planted with citrus or date trees, and plenty of secluded alcoves to frighten away any sleep-stealing djinns. Some current owners have turned their luxury homes into a sort of “homestay.” Such guests are likely to be free to wander the home or relax in the rooftops or garden, while others consider such visits disruptive to privacy and prefer to offer a more expensively oriented peace and quiet and opt to market to a specific clientele, often couples rather than families.

Location is key, with central areas ideal for a more interesting locale with the convenience of amenities at one’s fingertips. A countryside location generally offers a more secluded and quieter locale, far from the main tourist fray, yet it takes more effort to organize transportation to reach necessary necessities and desired regional activities. Given the necessary investment of time should one desire to seek a place to stay upon arrival, pre-booking is strongly recommended, as rooms are often filled at desired locations and rates often less favorable to prices found with internet reservations. Special offers are also available to those who visit in the offseason and to those who are open to booking directly with the owner or manager of an accommodation. In addition to the many listed accommodations, further options are broadly available for review at other travel agencies, travel experts, and alternate similar sites, many of which offer additional details, traveler reviews, photo galleries, and when possible, “real time” booking facilities. Points to consider: Each accommodation type (boutique hotel, riad, hotel, guest house, and hostel) can often be booked over the web through ‘instant confirmation’ rates, meaning you can see the best available rooms and reserve right away. Rates and rooms, even dorms in a hostel, are on a first-come, first-served basis, given that checking availability first is recommended. If you have particular needs, such as family-friendly pools, complimentary breakfast, vegetarian cuisine, disabled facilities, or even a pool table, they should be listed when conducting your search.

9. Safety and Health Considerations

Safety and Health Considerations

Morocco is generally a safe country. However, travelers should be aware of the laws and customs that exist here in order to ensure their safety and security. Travelers should respect local customs and take care not to offend Moroccans with certain behaviors. Attention should also be paid to personal effects in urban centers, where pickpocketing is not uncommon. Avoid getting lost in poorly lit and labyrinthine neighborhoods at night in some medinas. Travelers should also plan to be in good health during their trips, paying attention to the quality of the water and food they consume. Regarding health requirements, no particular vaccination is required to enter Morocco. Anti-tetanus and hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended, and all current vaccinations should be kept up to date. Travelers should also take out travel insurance before their trip.

The cost of medical care can be very high. Travelers should receive a medical certificate from their doctor at least four weeks before their trip to Morocco in order to renew their prescriptions. Travelers should also take a sufficient supply of medication to avoid possible health and supply problems. If the need for health assistance arises, travelers can consult a doctor in private practice or go to public or private clinics. It is advisable to have a vaccination record or international certificate of vaccination issued by a competent authority. Contact numbers are displayed in the guest rooms of the hotels, as well as the locations of foreign representations in the capital and in other cities. In the villages near the Toubkal National Park, team leaders can contact the local medical center, which is close to the start of the Toubkal trek and has a team of doctors providing 24-hour medical care. Moreover, the local hospital in Marrakech has a specialized medical center where the main languages spoken are French, English, and Spanish. If evacuation is needed, arrange it through the local consulate, which will then inform the relevant agency. In the mountains, in the event of a problem, it is very important to ask local people for help—either to organize an evacuation or to refer you to the nearest medical center. However, for problems such as altitude sickness or dehydration, the intervention of a local doctor or pharmacist is just as effective, even if they do not speak the same language! When traveling, basic rules should be followed to minimize the risks. You should familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures in the country visited, the customs in the host country, and the places of safety.

10. Festivals and Events in Morocco

Throughout the year, a variety of festivals and events taking place in Moroccan communities showcase the rich array of cultures that comprise this country’s population. The Fes Festival of World Sacred Music is one of Morocco’s most important events and attracts thousands of performers and attendees from around the world. The performance of sacred music at various historical sites in the imperial city of Fes serves as the backdrop to a conference dealing with the development of sustainable environments. The annual Marrakech Popular Arts Festival features the performances of singers, dancers, and musicians who showcase the diversity of Moroccan cultural practices. Held in the lively and colorful city of Marrakech, various performances are staged throughout the city as well as in a large stadium in town, at which traditional sporting contests also take place. A month of social and family activities and events focused on disabled and orphan children lead up to the closing ceremony of the event.

In addition, hundreds of regional and local festivals take place throughout Morocco. These events range in size and focus, as they showcase everything from the glamour of beauty contests and fantasy parades to religious processions, medieval festivals, and marathon runs. Very often, the events are sponsored by the government as part of international efforts to promote the creative, culinary, and other artistic talents present in Moroccan communities. Whether paid for by the state, local community, or private industry, the Moroccan festival serves as an important and effective location for the sharing of ideas and information, as well as the building of social capital. Whereas in most parts of the world the pattern of cultural festivals only seems to be multiplying and intensifying, in Morocco the phenomenon of festivals, popular moussems, and other public and private events in which artisans play a major role is distinct, and deeply linked to the Moroccan cultural aesthetic. Thus, national festivals offer an unusual window into Morocco’s economic, social, and cultural traditions. Many tourists from all over the world schedule their Morocco tours during the time of the national festivals, in part because local residents also turn out in large numbers for these cultural events, and thus visitors experience the interaction of Moroccans from every ethnic and social class as they discuss and observe the various exhibits and events. In this way, national festivals serve as important nexuses in which members of the broader Moroccan community can finance a community festival and other events. Because the October end-of-the-year national festivals are important to the entire country, tourists should plan their travel to Morocco well in advance to ensure that they not only have accommodations but can also find a parade or evening performance by special request if necessary.

11. Exploring Moroccan Souks and Markets

One of the quintessential experiences in Morocco is exploring the souks (markets) where locals purchase everything from everyday goods to family wedding clothes. Many of Morocco’s souks are large in scale, with sprawling aisles of different goods, but there are also small neighborhood souks where you can get a more microcosmic look at day-to-day life. Stepping into a souk can feel like entering a different world: it’s louder, smelling of spices, perfumes, and meat, and it can be a little dizzying with the colors and patterns of rugs, fabrics, and teapots. When you’re shopping in the souk, don’t be shy: banter is part of the fun in Morocco, and haggling is the status quo. Prices aren’t often marked, and knowing to negotiate is part of the local know-how. Of course, the level of negotiation (and successful haggling) depends on the item and the shop. But take it from us: we encourage you to engage with local artisans at their shops, learn about their craft, and relish the experience. Different sections of the souk specialize in different goods, from spices and henna to rugs and fabrics. If you’re shopping for two very popular souvenirs – olive wood and argan oil – one cool trick is to take a look at the shop’s supplier tag. That will tell you where the owner got the products. Goods are always changing, so the list is more of a shopping guideline to get you thinking. To have the optimal browsing experience, we advise going when the souk would be at its busiest – usually in the afternoons and on weekend mornings. There are a lot of people, and kids may get a bit overwhelmed by the thoroughfare, but it can really be an unforgettable experience! We’re confident no savvy traveler will feel nervous; but as always, keep an eye on your kiddos.

12. Conclusion

Whether you arrive from the north, south, east, or west, Morocco weaves its spell on all travelers—increasingly so, it seems, as the day of departure approaches. This guide has detailed specific itineraries—grand tours and road trips—that flit between mountains, deserts, beaches, and cities. Featuring everything from historical medinas to Hollywood film sets, they are an excellent place to start if itinerary planning leaves your map spinning. As for daily travel, don’t be afraid to visit the highlights—Moroccans have been excelling in hospitality for eons. But also remember to stray off the tourist path every now and then, to immerse yourself in landscapes and culture.

After all the itineraries, one conclusion screams louder than any other: the only workable way to slice your Moroccan melon is to pack a knife and a healthy sense of adventure, say ‘yes’ when it feels right, and allow circumstances to shape your journey as they will. Make plans and they’re sure to change. Trust people—few are out to take advantage of you. Walk around with an open mind and a willingness to experience; Morocco and Moroccans are known for living up to the saying that you’ll be welcomed like a king and leave like an old friend. Visitors who know even a little bit about Morocco are only ever informed travelers. That’s why we’ve written more than a few thousand words about what to expect—all the sights, the sounds, the flavors, and the how-tos that will make your experience unforgettable. Now we wish you a little bit of luck and a whole lot of fun.