Morocco might not be the first place on your bucket list, but it has plenty to offer. From adobe fortresses and ancient mosques to spirited souks, uncover this land of dramatic contrasts.
Explore the city of Marrakech with a local guide and take in the sights at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Then, visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis and Fez’s medieval medina on a G Adventures-led tour.
Marrakech
A Morocco Tours is the answer to all your Lawrence of Arabia fantasies (right down to the swirling white djellabas). You’ll stay in historic riads, camp under the Saharan stars, and dine on tagines spiked with saffron and argan oil.
You’ll also be able to experience Marrakech like a local on a guided vespa tour of the city’s alleyways. Whizz through street markets, pass by intricate Islamic architecture, and explore courtyards. Plus, you’ll get to see the city’s soaring minarets and snaking souks from an entirely new perspective!
The city’s gardens are another highlight. You’ll discover the enchanting lakes of Menara Park, the roses of Rose Garden, and the exotic decorations of Jardin Majorelle, among other highlights. Afterwards, you’ll be able to relax at one of the city’s famous squares as the sun sets.
When night falls, you’ll be treated to a different side of the city. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is transformed into an open-air food court, and the city’s streets are illuminated by floodlights and performers. You’ll also be able to enjoy dinner with a local family in a traditional Moroccan home, and take part in henna and mosaic-making lessons.
There are lots of other tours to choose from as well. You could visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified mud-brick village that’s known as a Ksar. Or you might want to hike in the Atlas Mountains, or learn how to cook a traditional Moroccan meal at a chef’s home. A Withlocals host can craft a bespoke tour just for you! Just let them know what you’re looking for. And remember, to take full advantage of a Morocco tour, you’ll need comfortable shoes with good traction for walking over uneven and unpaved surfaces.
Fes
Fes is the heart of Morocco’s imperial culture, and on this guided tour you’ll take a deep dive into its ancient streets. Visit the 14th Century palace gates, then wander the souks (markets) to witness its kaleidoscope of colors, scents and sounds. It’s an assault on your senses, with sellers shouting prices and striking hard bargains, and woven textiles in every color of the rainbow. For a break from the noise and chaos, head to a local cooking school for a hands-on class where you’ll learn to prepare a traditional Moroccan meal.
The tanneries are another must-see for any visitor to Fes, even though you’ll likely smell them before you see them. These leather tanneries use a mix of animal waste and poop to turn out the colorful leather goods you see on the markets. Some of the workers will offer to give you a guided tour, but it’s best to go at your own pace and find a roof terrace to get a bird’s-eye view.
There’s nothing quite like riding a camel over the dunes of the Sahara Desert under a glistening sky. You can experience it with Much Better Adventures, on a six-night trip that’ll see you scale the towering Todra Gorge cliffs, and trek through dramatic wadis. You’ll also camp under the stars at a tented lodge in the Dadès Valley and enjoy sunrise and sunset yoga sessions on the desert dunes. The trip costs PS717pp and includes guidance, accommodation, meals and transfers.
Essaouira
Morocco’s seaside port combines old-world charm with the beachy allure of an African paradise. Among its many unique attractions are the narrow alleyways of the medina, where local artisans carve masterpieces from native thuja wood. Wander the quaint streets and browse shops offering handmade leather bags, colourful jewellery, and authentic carpets. You can also try a tagine, a range of stews named after the clay vessel in which they’re cooked.
The strong Atlantic trade winds that make Essaouira the ‘Windy City of Africa’ are also responsible for its distinct blue hue, which covers everything from boats to window shutters. The shade, which is known as Moorish blue, speaks of 3,000 years of history and is a quintessential symbol of the city.
This coastal city’s laidback vibe makes it an excellent choice for families. There are plenty of family-friendly activities, including the chance to learn how to cook Moroccan cuisine with a local family in their home kitchen. The kids will love the chance to climb on a library ladder and choose books from the shelves, and they’ll be eager to help kneed the dough for traditional bread.
If you’re seeking more adventure, take a camel ride to explore the vast sand dunes and shady forests of Essaouira’s tranquil countryside. The rhythmic sway of the camel’s gait is an invigorating experience, and you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views over the Atlantic coastline.
Immerse yourself in the diverse culture of this North African gem on an in-depth trip led by our most experienced local leaders. Marvel at the Mosque of Hassan II in French-infused Casablanca, uncover ancient history at the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and get to know the locals in Fes and Essaouira.
Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is the key centre of a region of desert and valleys dotted with historic kasbahs. It’s a base and staging point for exploration of the south, but there are also a few worthwhile sights right in town. The best of these is Kasbah Taourirt, which was once the home of the Glaoui family. This citadel looms over the city and a third of it has been opened for visitors to explore.
Its evocative location conjures up images of biblical towns, long lost villages and battling armies. It’s no wonder that the movie studios have been drawn here to shoot such blockbusters as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator and Kundun. During the day you can visit Atlas Film Studios or the smaller, more intimate Cinema Museum. The latter is more a collection of old sets and various film props rather than an enormous lot.
You can spend some time strolling around the streets of the kasbah, which are lined with buildings constructed from adobe and rammed earth brick. Tiny alleyways and staircases lead through the structures, which are in various states of repair. Some have been left in ruins, while others have been restored or rebuilt by the film industry.
The kasbahs of the Draa Valley are some of Morocco’s most striking and most beautiful. They’re not just relics of a bygone era, but are living places that shelter families and continue to hold great aspirations for the local people. Whether you choose to book a tour that stops here, or a longer itinerary that takes in the area and other places like Marrakech and Essaouira, you’ll find an adventure brimming with extraordinary contrasts. From bustling markets to evocative desert scenery and mountain views, this is a journey that’ll leave you with memories to cherish.
Zagora
Zagora is a beautiful town in Morocco that sits at the foot of the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the edge of the Draa Valley. It is a great place to experience traditional Moroccan life and breathtaking scenery. In addition to the stunning desert landscapes, Zagora also has a rich cultural heritage.
Zagora offers many exciting tours and activities for travelers. There are several options to choose from, including guided excursions in the Sahara desert, with or without an overnight stay in a tent camp. The Draa Valley is also a must-see, as it is home to several ancient Amazigh villages and exotic wildlife. If you want to see a bit of history, be sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.
The best time to visit Zagora is during the cooler months, between October and April. The weather is usually pleasant and there are fewer tourists at this time. However, the weather can change at any time, so it is always a good idea to check local weather reports before planning your trip.
Traveling to Zagora is safe, and the local people are known for their hospitability and welcoming attitude toward visitors. But it is important to take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and being aware of your surroundings at all times. In addition, it is a good idea to check the local news and current events for updates on safety.
Zagora is a fairly affordable destination, but the costs of accommodations, transportation, and activities vary greatly depending on the time of year and your preferences. The best way to save money is to book your tour with a reputable agency that offers packages for all budgets.