Morocco Travel Insights

Exploring Morocco's Imperial Cities and Natural Landscapes - 13 Days

Match Morocco's unique culture with its stunning nature in this country-wide tour that explores the charms of its bustling imperial cities—Casablanca, Fes, Chefchaouen, and Marrakech—and its rural landscape. Meander the old town medinas, meet local craftsmen, and barter at bazaars before heading out into the Sahara Desert and up into the High Atlas Mountains to hike through dense forests and deep river canyons. Continue your adventure by summiting the highest mountain pass, visiting historic Berber towns and Roman ruins, riding camels into the sunset, and relaxing in a traditional Hammam.

Exploring Morocco's Imperial Cities and Natural Landscapes - 12 Days

Combining culture and outdoor adventure, this 12-day tour features the best of Morocco, starting with the markets and monuments of the imperial cities Casablanca, Fes, and the famous "Blue City", Chefchaouen. Next you'll explore the country's natural side in the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, sleeping in Bedouin-style tents and high alpine Berber Towns. Experience cultural delights like riding camels at sunset, meandering ancient Roman ruins, visiting old kasbahs, and enjoying traditional Hammam treatments in the bustling city of Marrakech.

Exploring Morocco's Imperial Cities and Natural Landscapes - 11 Days

This all-encompassing tour highlights the best of Morocco, from cultural stops in imperial cities like Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and Fes, to natural exploration in desert landscapes. You'll discover Roman ruins, hike in the wild north of Morocco, ride a camel in the Sahara for sunset, visit old kasbahs, and experience a traditional Hammam treatment. End the trip by driving over the magnificent Tizi n'Tichka Pass over the High Atlas Mountains and explore the bustling city of Marrakech.

Jemaa el-Fnaa square and market place at dusk.

Explore Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira - 6 Days

A perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this 6-day itinerary features highlights of the imperial city of Marrakech, including hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains and relaxing in the coastal town of Essaouira. You'll roam exotic souks in ancient medinas, learn about traditional cuisine, and share a meal with a local Berber family. Explore centuries-old seafront fortifications and visit an argan tree cooperative where you can learn all about the oil extraction while watching the goats graze up in the branches.

8 Days in Morocco - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in Morocco, you can take a grand tour of big-ticket cities like Casablanca and Fes, or spend your time exploring off the beaten path, hiking through villages in lush countrysides and enjoying cultural experiences including cooking lessons and homestays. Of course, the iconic Sahara awaits: incorporate a desert adventure into a Tangier-to-Marrakech road trip or soar above the dunes on a luxury Morocco tour. Learn more about the best ways to spend eight days in Morocco below.

9 Days in Morocco - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days, you can hit the highlights of Morocco's famed Imperial cities and add in time along the coast or in the desert. Or, take a different approach by swapping in a trek through Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains. If you’re inspired to go off-the-beaten-path, you can start in Marrakech, then head through smaller towns and mountain villages, swim at the base of a towering waterfall, learn how to press olive oil, and visit a saffron harvest. Read on for some unique options for your trip.

Caravan on camelback across the Sahara desert

6 Days in Morocco - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days in Morocco, you can tour some of the country’s best highlights, depending on what inspires you. You could devote your itinerary entirely to exploring Moroccan cities, where you can wander around mosques, souks, and centuries-old landmarks embellished with exquisite mosaics. Or you can split your time between a big city (for example, Marrakech) and the desert. If you’re a “more is more” kind of traveler, you can even add on time in an Atlantic coastal town.

The verdant foothills of the High Atlas mountains

Exploring Around Marrakech, Hiking & the Coast - 8 Days

A perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this 8-day itinerary features highlights of the imperial city of Marrakech, hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, and relaxing in the coastal town of Essaouira. You'll roam exotic souks in ancient medinas, learn about traditional cuisine and share a meal with a local Berber family, and explore centuries-old seafront fortifications.

Palm trees line the fortified walls in Taroudant

Marrakech, Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira - 9 Days

This relaxed itinerary takes you on an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Morocco's culture and landscapes. Explore the bustle and history of Marrakech, then travel through the Atlas Mountains. You'll go on an off-road adventure and will discover breathtaking scenery at Morocco's tallest waterfalls. Climb aboard a camel to trek out into the desert, where you'll camp for the night. Then discover Taroudant, a fortified town with great shopping and souks that are easier to navigate than those in bigger cities. You'll end your trip in Essaouira, a gorgeous seaside escape where you can relax and tuck into fresh local seafood.

A tempting display at a souk in Marrakech

Moroccan Cities: Casablanca, Rabat, Fes & Marrakech - 6 Days

Discover Morroco's historic and modern cities on this 6-day tour of the country's urban centers. You'll get a sense of Morocco's evolution across the centuries, from its Roman ruins in Volubilis to its modern commercial capital, Casablanca. You'll also visit the seaside splendor of Rabat — which showcases the influence of French-colonial heritage — as well as the exquisite Imperial City of Meknes. Finally, you'll immerse yourself in Marrakech, the "Red City," where you'll be welcomed with fantastic cuisine, a bustling Medina, and gorgeous architecture.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The Moroccan Sahara is a great place to visit in December. The days are warm but not hot, perfect for outdoor adventures in the dunes, and nights are cold—ideal for relaxing by an open fire and gazing at the stars—and it's relatively quiet in terms of tourism, save for the days around Christmas and New Year's Eve. Learn more about to expect in the Sahara Desert in Morocco in December with this monthly guide.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November is a quiet time for tourism around Morocco—which makes it a great time to visit the Sahara Desert. Take a camel ride over the dunes, visit the "Hollywood of Morocco," stargaze by a campfire: the fall weather is crisp and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities, and you won't encounter big crowds or inflated prices. Read on for more about what to expect with this monthly guide to November in the Moroccan Sahara.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

If you're planning to visit the Moroccan Sahara in October, you can expect a few things: beautiful weather, major cultural festivals, and an influx of weekend visitors. It's a wonderful time to get a glimpse into local culture and cuisine, to go for a camel ride on the dunes, or to star-gaze under a brilliant sky. Learn more about what to expect with this monthly guide to visiting the Sahara in Morocco in October.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September is the tail end of the high season in Morocco. The days cool off slightly and the crowds get smaller as summer turns to fall, but you'll still experience intense sunshine in the Sahara—planning ahead for desert excursions is key. Learn more about what to expect and what to do in the Moroccan Sahara in this monthly guide.

Desert landscapes in the Moroccan Sahara

Morocco's Sahara Desert in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August is the hottest month of the year in the driest desert in the world. Think long, hot, sunny days, vast night skies filled with stars—and lots of tourists around. It's true that you'll need to plan ahead to enjoy the majesty of the Moroccan Sahara's sweeping landscapes (and avoid getting sunstroke). Learn how with this monthly guide to August in the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is the middle of summer in the world's driest desert. On the bright side, it's not quite as hot as in August—but you'll still want to carefully plan your trip to the Moroccan Sahara at this time of the year so that the weather won't stop you from enjoying the desert's magnificent scenery. Find out more about what to expect, see, and do with this monthly guide to the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June marks the beginning of summer in the Moroccan Sahara. While visiting the driest desert in the world during the hottest months of the year may sound daunting, it's not a bad time to visit if you plan your excursions wisely and stay out of the sun during the middle of the day. Find out more about what to expect with this monthly guide to the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The Moroccan Sahara sees a spike in tourism in April—and with warm, sunny weather and several cultural festivals on the calendar, it's not difficult to see why. Visiting the desert at this time requires a bit of advance planning, but you'll enjoy comfortable temperatures that are ideal for trekking and camel rides. Learn more about what to expect with this monthly guide.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Considering a visit to the Moroccan Sahara in March? It's a good time to go: the weather is pleasant for outdoor adventures, save for the occasional sandstorm, and you won't encounter major crowds. Find out more about what to expect with this monthly guide to visiting the Sahara in Morocco in early spring.

An open fire in the Sahara Desert, Morocco

Morocco's Sahara Desert in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February marks the end of winter in Morocco. In the Sahara Desert, the weather is sunny and dry—great for outdoor activities—with chilly evenings that are ideal for stargazing by an open fire. It's not a peak travel time, so you won't encounter major crowds or higher-than-average prices. Find out more about what to expect with this monthly guide to the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Morocco's Sahara Desert in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January is the middle of winter in Morocco. In the Sahara Desert, which extends into the country's southeast, the days are sunny (though shorter than you'll experience in summer) with temperatures pleasant for outdoor activities during the day. Though you'll have crowds to contend with in the first week of the month, the latter part of January is a quiet time to visit.

Ait Ben Haddou near Ouarzazate in the Moroccan Sahara

Morocco's Sahara Desert in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

If you're hoping to visit the Moroccan Sahara in May, plan ahead: tourism is up around Morocco in spring. Though the weather in the desert gets hot in the middle of the day, it's generally pleasant and sunny, making May a great time to plan early-morning treks and sunset camel rides. Learn more about what to expect, from occasional sandstorms to a major rose harvest festival, with this monthly guide.

Marrakesh to Casablanca: Agafay Desert & Atlantic Coast - 6 Days

This tour is perfect for the traveler who's short on time and looking for a taste of Morocco and its hidden gems. You'll enjoy a guided tour of Marrakesh and watch its famed Jamaa El Fna Square come to life at dusk, then ride a camel through the stunning sand dunes of the Agafay Desert, where you'll spend the night in a traditional tent. As you make your way to Casablanca, you'll stop at an argan oil collective, enjoy fresh, delicious seafood on the coast, and visit the gorgeous Essaouira, all at a relaxed pace.

A desert oasis with stunning mountains beyond

Grand Tour: Casablanca, Meknes, Chefchaouen, Fes, Sahara Desert, Marrakech - 8 Days

Spend a week on a grand tour of Morocco and its gems on this itinerary, which guarantees a taste of the country's iconic landscapes and landmarks. You'll begin in the modern commercial capital of Casablanca, where you can pay homage to its eponymous classic film, then head through Meknes, visiting Roman ruins along the way. Next up is the Instagram-worthy "Blue City" of Chefchaouen, a stunning celebration of color and culture. Get lost in the medinas of Fes and travel across the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, which you can explore by camel or ATV. You'll meet the area's nomadic people, dine by the fire as you watch local performers, and sleep overnight in a traditional Bedouin tent before you end your trip in the bustle and beauty of Marrakesh.

Moroccan Tour: Chefchaouen, Fes, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, & More - 12 Days

This 12-day Moroccan tour will take through major cities, like Fes and Marrakech, and over the Middle Atlas Mountains to Merzouga–where you’ll ride a camel through the sand dunes and camp in the Sahara Desert. While on the road, you’ll pass through Berber villages. You’ll also stop in the costal town of Essaouira, as well as Ouarzazate, the Hollywood of Morocco, before ending your travels in Casablanca.

Casablanca Round Trip: Imperial Cities & Berber Villages

Explore Morocco: Imperial Cities to Berber Villages - 11 Days

On this 11-day tour of Morocco, you’ll begin and end your travels in Casablanca, home to the famous Hassan II Mosque. Your trip takes you through all four imperial cities–Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech. Take in daily life in each town at the lively medinas. You’ll also have the opportunity to observe Moroccan life among the farms in the Berber villages on this well-rounded Moroccan journey.

Moroccan Tour: Atlantic Coast, Imperial Cities, & Sahara Desert - 13 Days

On this 13-day trip plan, explore all aspects of Morocco–the coastal city of Essaouria, the imperial city of Few, and the Merzouga area of the Sahara Desert. Beginning and ending in Marrakech, stroll the bustling square of Jemma El Fna, then visit Hassan Mosque II in Casablanca, with one of the tallest towers in the world. Hike in the scenic Rif Mountains and get lost in the blue-hued city of Chefchaouen. Enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine and culture along the way.

Best of Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakesh - 11 Days

From the blue medina of Chefchoauen to the red dunes of the Sahara, this colorful, 11-day journey through Morocco has it all. The trip begins in Casablanca, home to one of the tallest mosque towers in the world, and then takes you to Fez, with its ancient, well-preserved square and unique tanneries. Enjoy camping under the stars in the Erg Chebbi Dunes, and take in the lively culture in Marrakesh.

Grand Moroccan Tour - 13 Days

This 13-day tour covers a wide range sites and experiences that, together, provide a well-rounded view of Morocco. The tour begins with the imperial cities of the northern area (Casablanca, Rabat, Tanger, Fez, and Meknes), and also includes the charming blue-painted town of Chefchaouen. The trip continues toward the Merzouga area of the Sahara, with the classic Erg Chebbi sand dunes all around. Then, stop in vibrant Marrakech and experience its lively square before heading back to Casablanca to depart.

Fes to Casablanca: Sahara Desert & Atlantic Coast - 12 Days

This 12-day tour of Morocco is filled with adventure, history, and culture. Begin in Fes, and learn about crafts and artisans. Then, trek into the Sahara Desert by camel, and experience the sand dunes and camping under the stars. Next is a trip to Ouarzazate to visit movie sets in "Moroccan Hollywood," followed by Marrakech, where the Jemaa el Fna is bursting with culture. End the trip with some coastal exploration in the town of Essaouira before departing from Casablanca.

Morocco's Imperial Cities & the Sahara Desert - 13 Days

Immerse yourself in Moroccan history and culture, and adventure in nature, the mountains, and the famed Sahara Desert on this 13-day trip. Begin and end your journey in Casablanca, where you can explore the world-renowned Hassan II Mosque. Venture into the spiritual capital of Fez and explore its different quarters. A journey into the Erg Chebbi Dunes is a trip highlight, as is Marrakesh and its bustling square. The trip concludes with coastal views and tours of Essaouira and its heritage.

Sahara Desert, photo taken by Yassine Echcherki

Grand Morocco Tour: Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fez, Marrakesh, & More - 13 Days

On this 13-day tour of Morocco, you will explore the country’s ancient history and adventure through the desert. In Casablanca, visit the Hassan II Mosque & Hassan Tower–one of the largest in the world–and then, explore Chefchaouen, the iconic blue-hued city. Go camping in the Sahara Desert and discover the ruins in Fez. The epicenter of each city is its very own medina, where you can experience the colorful local cultures up close.

Kasbah Tamadot in the foothills of the High Atlas (Photo courtesy of Virgin Limited Edition)

Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel in Morocco

Morocco has been on the radar of boho-cool celebrities for decades, and the luxury riad scene is booming more than ever—but you don’t need A-lister credentials to be treated like royalty. Upping your budget opens up a world of possibilities, whether that means a bespoke glamping tour of the Sahara or a sunrise hot air balloon ride with the Atlas Mountains on the horizon.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Marrakech

There’s more to Marrakech than the circus-like hullabaloo of Jemma el-Fna, persistent hawkers, and the donkey-dodging craziness of the souks. Beyond the walls of the medina (and sometimes even within them), you can find serene escapes that feel a million miles away from the city din – from the wave-lashed Atlantic coast to hidden gardens, galleries and High Atlas valleys.

An inner courtyard at La Sultana, one of Marrakech's most luxurious sleeps (Photo courtesy of La Sultana)

7 Best Luxury Riads in Marrakech

A stay in a riad is likely to be one of your most memorable experiences in Marrakech. Push open the heavy wooden door and you enter a world far removed from the hubbub outside; one where you can rest in the shade of an orange tree, dip into a lantern-lit pool, or peer across the minarets of the historic city from the roof terrace, mint tea in hand.

2 Weeks in Morocco - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Morocco is enough time for a true grand tour, from the souks of Fes and Marrakech to the glittering Sahara, High Atlas mountains, and windy Atlantic Coast. If you want more than just the highlights—or if you're traveling in during summer, when the desert can be oppressively hot—stick to the Imperial cities of the north, diving into the history of classic stops along with places most travelers miss, like Beni-Mellal and Tetouan.

Luxury Grand Tour of Morocco - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary checks off Morocco's top urban and natural landmarks. See medieval architecture in the capital of Rabat, walk the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and tour 9th-century Al Quaraouiyine University in Fes. Continue to the Sahara for a night of glamping, visit the desert citadel of Ait Benhaddou, and explore colorful Marrakech markets and ornate palaces before ending in the quiet coastal city of Essaouira.

Morocco Imperial Cities Luxury Tour - 7 Days

Visit Morocco's Imperial cities in this packed one-week tour. Start in Rabat, Morocco's capital, to see 12th-century architecture, then continue to Fes to explore the world's largest urban car-free zone. See the tanneries, world's oldest university, and medieval Jewish quarter, then head to Marrakech to round out your trip with ornate palaces, bustling Jemaa El-Fna market, and a half-day cooking class.

Merzouga in the Sahara Desert in Morocco

Southern Morocco Luxury Tour - 8 Days

Exploring the highlights of Southern Morocco on this adventure-packed trip. Spend your first night in the Sahara, then visit the famed Ait Benhaddou and explore the dunes of Erg Lihoudi with a comfortable night in a luxury camp. Continue to Marrakech to visit ornate palaces, the serene Majorelle Gardens, and vibrant city markets. Finish your trip in the charming coastal city of Essaouira, where 18th-century artist studios and quiet coastal charm await.

Highlight Luxury Tour of Morocco - 10 Days

This highlights tour checks off Morocco's top cultural and natural sites. Explore medieval architecture in Rabat, wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and see the famous tanneries in Fes. Continue to the Sahara to see the desert city of Ait Benhaddou and spend a peaceful night under the stars, then finish your trip in colorful Marrakech, where vibrant markets, serene gardens, and lively nightlife await.

What to Eat in Marrakech (and Where to Eat It)

Butter-soft lamb, spicy, aromatic tagines, syrupy sweets stuffed with almond paste and drizzled with orange flower water: Marrakech cuisine is at once highly nuanced and deeply satisfying. Read on to find out how to dig in to the most authentic flavours and where.

Luxury Marrakech & Atlas Mountains - 7 Days

Explore Marrakech and the surrounding Atlas Mountains in this week-long itinerary. Spend four days exploring ornate palaces, winding medina alleys, and the vibrant Jemaa El-Fna market. Continue into the High Atlas Mountains to visit ancient Berber villages, breath crisp mountain air, and relax at the luxurious Kasbah Tamadot.

Moroccan Cities from Coast to Coast - 14 Days

Discover Morocco's ancient and historic cities on this complete two-week itinerary. You'll cover three imperial cities, Marrakech, Fes, and Meknes, as well as less-traveled cities like Beni-Mellal, Moulay Idris, and Tetouan. You'll wander maze-like streets, participate in a cooking class, drive through the Atlas mountains, and explore ancient Roman ruins.

Morocco in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January may be the coldest month of the year in Morocco, but it's a great time to visit if you're interested in trekking in the desert and crowd-free sightseeing. Find out what to do and where to go in this monthly guide.

Morocco in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

There are distinct advantages to visiting Morocco in December: cool weather, lower prices, and ideal conditions for stargazing in the desert. Check out this monthly guide for what to do and where to go.

Morocco in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

With few crowds and comfortable temperatures throughout much of the country, November is a good time to visit Morocco. And travelers interested in the Sahara Desert can expect pleasant, sunny weather and fewer tourists. Check out this monthly guide for the best things to see and do.

Morocco in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is an excellent time of year to visit Morocco, with manageable crowds, interesting events, and pleasant temperatures throughout the country. Find out what to do and where to go in this monthly guide.

Morocco in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As summer turns to fall in Morocco, temperatures start cooling off around the country and a lively cultural calendar offers plenty of special events. Here's a monthly guide for where to go and what to do in September.

Morocco in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August is the hottest month of the year in Morocco. Plan your trip strategically to beat the heat and make the most of the country's cooler destinations, including the beach, the mountains, and the north. Read on for more on what to see and do in Morocco in August.

Morocco in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Heat alert: July is the peak of summer in Morocco, and a (very) popular month for travelers. It's not the best time to visit the Sahara Desert, but there's still plenty to see and do along the country's sunny northern coast and up in the mountains. Find out more with this monthly guide.