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Maryem Kouna

I’m a Moroccan travel specialist born and raised in a small village in the historic Draa Valley; once part of the ancient trans-Saharan salt caravan route. Growing up in a family that valued education and hard work, I developed a deep appreciation for culture, history, and connection. My passion for languages led me to Marrakech, where I earned a Bachelor's degree. Today, I combine my local insight with a love for Moroccan cuisine, traditions, and hidden gems to craft personalized, travel experiences for visitors from around the world.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"One of my greatest passions is Moroccan cuisine, both cooking and savoring it! I love introducing guests to our beloved local dishes, while also guiding them to hidden gems and authentic cultural experiences beyond the typical tourist path. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Moroccan traditions, I’m here to craft a personalized itinerary that reflects your unique travel style and interests."

How did you get involved in travel?

"My passion for tourism began in childhood. Growing up in a region renowned for its historic Kasbahs and million palms, I frequently encountered travelers and was inspired. I always dreamed of being part of the travel industry, sharing the beauty and culture of Morocco with others. That dream began to take shape when I was offered a role as a sales assistant through a connection with a travel company, an important early opportunity that allowed me to turn my passion into a career."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"One of the finest and most satisfying trips that I’ve had so far was the time I visited Essaouira. It was an amazing place for quiet wanderings and strolling alongside the city’s high battlements and its calm tight-fitting alleys in the old medina while also discovering its historical and cultural background. Essaouira is still one of my favorite destinations in Morocco even though it is always windy there!"

Maryem is part of the following groups: Morocco Travel Agents, Morocco Luxury Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Honeymoon itineraries

Favorite experiences

Merzouga Sunset Camel Ride & Desert Overnight

One of the most quintessential Moroccan experiences is a sunset camel ride through Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, combined with an overnight in the desert. Most visitors enjoy this experience when traveling to the Sahara from one of the country's imperial cities, such as between Merzouga and Marrakech...

Explore the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech

Discover the natural beauty and culture of Morocco's High Atlas Mountains. As you zip into the scenic hills, you'll make several stops to enjoy impressive panoramas of small villages, enchanting scenery, and interesting landscapes. After leaving Marrakech, you'll head toward the Atlas Mountains...

Recent trip reviews for Maryem

Authentic, Flexible, and Wonderfully Planned
Morocco | Jul 25 - Aug 1, 2026

Casey
Casey W.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Aug 08, 2026
We had an incredible experience with Under Moroccan Sun. Maryem did an outstanding job planning our trip, providing thoughtful recommendations, and was incredibly responsive throughout the entire planning process. Our driver and guide for the week, Ismeal, took great care of us. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and helped make the long drives enjoyable by sharing information about Morocco's history, culture, and daily life. One thing we especially appreciated was the flexibility of the... Read more

We had an incredible experience with Under Moroccan Sun. Maryem did an outstanding job planning our trip, providing thoughtful recommendations, and was incredibly responsive throughout the entire planning process.

Our driver and guide for the week, Ismeal, took great care of us. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and helped make the long drives enjoyable by sharing information about Morocco's history, culture, and daily life. One thing we especially appreciated was the flexibility of the itinerary. If we were feeling tired or wanted to adjust our plans for the day, they were always happy to accommodate us.

The accommodations Maryem selected were exceptional. Rather than large chain hotels, we stayed in beautiful boutique riads and guesthouses that gave us a much more intimate and authentic experience of Morocco. Some of our favorite memories included our camel trek into the Sahara Desert and the opportunity to meet local families, especially our stay at Dar Rihana in the Dades Valley, which was truly unforgettable.

The local guides in each city were also friendly, knowledgeable, and added so much context to the places we visited.

We would highly recommend Maryem and Under Moroccan Sun to anyone planning a trip to Morocco. Their attention to detail, flexibility, and focus on authentic experiences made this one of the best trips we've ever taken.

Hotel Reviews
Dar Rihana Dades
Douar Aït Ouffi

Dar Rihana was one of our favorite stays in Morocco. This beautiful boutique hotel in the Dades Valley strikes the perfect balance between comfort, thoughtful design, and warm hospitality. Our room was beautifully decorated, incredibly comfortable, and had some of the nicest amenities we experienced during our trip. As someone who sleeps with a body pillow at home, I was amazed to find one waiting in the room. It's the only hotel I've ever stayed in that had one, and it was such a thoughtful touch that made me feel right at home. The bathroom was also excellent, with a spacious shower and modern amenities. The pool area is peaceful, beautiful, and the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the valley. What truly makes Dar Rihana special is the people. Mohammed, who manages the property, made us feel like family from the moment we arrived. He was incredibly kind, attentive, and always happy to help with anything we needed - even swimming lessons! We also enjoyed both dinner and breakfast at the hotel, and they were excellent. After a week of traditional Moroccan cuisine, the French-inspired dinner was a delicious change of pace. If you're visiting the Dades Valley, I can't recommend Dar Rihana enough. It feels personal, relaxing, and genuinely welcoming. We would happily stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Moha is a sweetheart and took great care of us!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Laman
Chefchaouen

We really enjoyed our stay here! The host was incredibly kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. He also prepared us an amazing lunch that ended up being one of the best meals we had during our entire trip to Morocco. The room itself was quirky, charming, and full of character. It felt like the kind of place that makes traveling memorable—unique, authentic, and unlike any standard hotel experience. If you're looking for somewhere with personality rather than a luxury resort, this is exactly that. The only minor drawback was that the shower was a bit rustic and could use some updating. It wasn't a problem for our one-night stay, but if you're planning to stay several nights and prioritize modern amenities, it's something to keep in mind. Overall, we'd absolutely recommend this place to travelers looking for an authentic, one-of-a-kind experience in Chefchaouen. The warm hospitality, delicious food, and unique atmosphere made it one of the most memorable stops on our trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was super clean, only minor thing was the shower could use updating, but it was fine for our 1 night stay.
Luxury Oasis Camp Merzouga
Taouz

Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Luxury Oasis Camp, though it ended up being one of our less memorable accommodations during our trip through Morocco. The camp itself is beautiful, and the tents are comfortable and well-appointed. Our favorite part of the experience was, without question, the camel trek into the Sahara. Mohammed, who led our camel ride, was incredibly friendly and made the experience so much fun. Riding camels through the dunes at sunset was one of the absolute highlights of our trip and is something we'll never forget. The hospitality at the camp itself felt a bit less personal than what we experienced elsewhere in Morocco. It's possible this was because we visited during the peak summer season, but the service didn't have the same warm, attentive feel that we had become accustomed to throughout the rest of our travels. One thing that surprised us was how close the camp is to several other desert camps. We had imagined being more isolated among the dunes, though that may simply be the reality of many desert camp experiences rather than something unique to this property. Despite those points, we're very glad we included a Sahara camp in our itinerary. If you're considering the experience, we'd absolutely recommend it for the camel ride alone, it was unforgettable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
  Hammam  Spa  & Massage in La Masion Arabe at  5 pm
Hammam Spa & Massage in La Masion Arabe at 5 pm
Marrakesh

I absolutely loved my experience at this hammam. It felt luxurious from start to finish, and the space itself is beautiful. The decor and design really add to the whole experience. This was my first hammam, and the staff did a great job explaining everything and making me feel comfortable. As an American, being fully nude for this type of experience was definitely new to me, but everyone was very professional and made the whole process feel completely natural and relaxing. The massage was also excellent. I am a total baby when it comes to deep pressure, and the massage here was perfect for me. It was relaxing and effective without ever feeling too aggressive. This was definitely one of the highlights of my time in Morocco and an experience I would highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fes to Merzouga Sunset Camel Ride via Midelt & Erfoud
Fes to Merzouga Sunset Camel Ride via Midelt & Erfoud
Morocco

The camel trek through the Sahara was one of the absolute highlights of our trip to Morocco. We weren't sure what to expect beforehand, but it ended up being an experience we'll remember for the rest of our lives. Our guide, Mohammed, was incredibly friendly and made the ride fun from start to finish. He clearly cared about the camels and took his time making sure everyone was comfortable. He was also happy to help us take photos along the way, which meant we came home with some amazing memories. Watching the landscape change as we rode through the dunes was unforgettable. It felt peaceful, surreal, and unlike anything we've ever experienced. If you're visiting Merzouga, I highly recommend adding a camel trek to your itinerary. It's such a unique way to experience the Sahara, and it ended up being one of our favorite memories from Morocco.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fes walking guided tour : No drive
Fes walking guided tour : No drive
Fes

We had a great experience on our walking tour of Fes. It was definitely a full day with a lot of walking, but our guide was knowledgeable, engaging, and happy to tailor the tour to what we were most interested in seeing. One thing we really wanted to do was shop at the famous tanneries, and he made sure we had plenty of time there. He was flexible throughout the day and adjusted the itinerary based on our interests rather than rushing us from stop to stop. One of our favorite moments wasn't actually a planned stop. We took a break in the shade at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, and ended up sitting and talking with our guide for quite a while. He shared his story of growing up in Morocco, getting an education, moving to Fes, meeting his wife, and what dating and courtship are like in Moroccan culture. It was such an interesting conversation and gave us a glimpse into modern life in Morocco that we wouldn't have gotten otherwise. Like many tours in Fes, there were several stops at artisan workshops where we could watch skilled craftspeople making leather goods, pottery, weaving, and other traditional products before having the opportunity to shop. As someone who enjoys making things by hand, I genuinely appreciated seeing the craftsmanship that goes into these products. By the end of the day we were definitely ready for a break, but that's more a reflection of how much we packed into one day than anything else. Overall, it was an excellent introduction to Fes, and we left with a much deeper appreciation for the city's history, artisans, and culture.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna

5 amazing days in Morocco with 2 teenagers!
Morocco | Jul 14 - Jul 19, 2026

R
Rebeca A.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 27, 2026
We are a family of four (two adults and a teenage boy and girl) and all of us had an amazing time during our stay in Morocco, thanks to the thoughtful itinerary Maryem put together and everyone involved in making us feel so welcome. Ismail, our driver, deserves special mention: he made us feel safe on every journey, shared wonderful insights along the way, and was always thoughtful about the family's comfort, whether making quick stops or offering guidance on the best places to eat and... Read more

We are a family of four (two adults and a teenage boy and girl) and all of us had an amazing time during our stay in Morocco, thanks to the thoughtful itinerary Maryem put together and everyone involved in making us feel so welcome. Ismail, our driver, deserves special mention: he made us feel safe on every journey, shared wonderful insights along the way, and was always thoughtful about the family's comfort, whether making quick stops or offering guidance on the best places to eat and shop.

One of the highlights of the trip was our cooking class. The preparation was outstanding, the family who hosted us was so welcoming, the food was delicious, and the dining room setting was stunning. We spent a beautiful afternoon sharing stories and learning together over a wonderful meal.

Our camping stay in the Agafay desert was stunning and exactly the right change of pace after a couple of lively days in Marrakech. And our time in Essaouira offered a perfect retreat of sea, sand, and culture at a more relaxed rhythm. Ismail's recommendations there were excellent, and we loved strolling along the beach each evening on our way back to the Riad.

The accommodations Maryem selected were wonderful — beautiful, clean, and perfectly sized for the whole family. Breakfast at every hotel and Riad was delicious and the perfect start to each day.

In short, our five days in Morocco were truly unforgettable. The locations, accommodations, activities, and people who made it all possible were absolute top class, and I'd highly recommend them to anyone planning a trip to this incredible part of the world.

I'll definitely trust Kim Kim again for future travels — whether back to Morocco or elsewhere. Thank you!

Hotel Reviews
Hôtel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura
Marrakech
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Alkamar Camp
Marrakech
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Chbanate
Essaouira
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Cooking Class with local chef
Cooking Class with local chef
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jul 29, 2026

Hi Rebecca,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! I’m super grateful to hear that we were able to exceed your expectations and create such a memorable trip for your family! And I’m so happy to hear that you had such an amazing time with Ismail.
Thanks again for trusting us with your trip, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future, you and your friends/family who may wish to visit Morocco!

Keep in touch,

Maryem

Matyem planned the trip through and through i...
Morocco | Jul 4 - Jul 14, 2026

A
Ava B.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Jul 16, 2026

Matyem planned the trip through and through it was very last minute and I made continuous last minute changes that she worked around. The driver hamza was great and very fast when we contacted him. We got a great experience of the Morocco culture and went many places in a short period of time. I highly recommend booking with maryem if you plan on traveling to Morocco

Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jul 22, 2026

Hi Ava,
It was truly a pleasure to help you plan your trip to Morocco. I’m super grateful to hear that we were able to exceed your expectations and create such a memorable trip for you!
Thanks for trusting us with your trip, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Morocco in the future.
Keep in touch,
Maryem, Hamza, and the rest of Under Moroccan Sun team

Maryem was very professional, accommodating, ...
Morocco | Jun 8 - Jun 14, 2026

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Niyi A.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 03, 2026
Maryem was very professional, accommodating, and flexible to meet our travel needs. Very proactive and planned with professional care and thoughtfulness. She was easy to reach via email, texts, and phone call.
The platform is pretty nice and navigable as it provides detail information about the trip plans, our hotel, and activities.
Our driver, Khalid is the Man!!!
While on our trip Khalid ensured that we always knew exactly what the next step was, and the hand-off between him and the...
Read more

Maryem was very professional, accommodating, and flexible to meet our travel needs. Very proactive and planned with professional care and thoughtfulness. She was easy to reach via email, texts, and phone call.
The platform is pretty nice and navigable as it provides detail information about the trip plans, our hotel, and activities.

Our driver, Khalid is the Man!!!
While on our trip Khalid ensured that we always knew exactly what the next step was, and the hand-off between him and the hotel staff or tour guides was seamless.

He was the perfect driver for our journey. He always greeted us warmly with a smile and cold bottles of water. On routes that stretched anywhere from 4 to 7 hours between cities, he shared fascinating insights about the areas we passed through and thoughtfully planned stops along the way to break up the long drives.

Fadil was our first tour guide on this trip and a great representation of Moroccan pride and hospitality. He eagerly shared his wealth of knowledge with personal antidotes and historical gems. My guy is the unofficial mayor of Rabat and everybody knows him.

Hassan was an awesome Tour Guide in Marrakesh.
He was very knowledgeable and funny storyteller. Our visits to the King's Palace, the Hammam and local food tour were amazing.
The local food tour was a great opportunity to explore traditional dishes and snacks. I also got to enjoy some sheep head and other interesting foods. Hassan took great pictures and videos of us as we enjoyed our time. He was very patient to stop and wait while we made short shopping stops.

Throughout the trip, the vehicle itself was clean and comfortable, and we deeply appreciated the small but meaningful touches which included having water, snacks, and meals provided right on time throughout our travel as well as care and concern with our luggage and belongings. Beyond the logistics, Khalid was easy to talk to and shared wonderful personal stories that made the long drives feel like time spent with a friend rather than just transportation.

We cannot recommend Miriam and Khalid highly enough. If you want a trip that is meticulously planned, flexible, and a travel experience filled with genuine care from start to finish, you want this team by your side.

Thank you Kim Kim!

Hotel Reviews
Riad Farouzi Fes
Fes

EXQUISITE! The decor put us in a whole new world. We felt right at home upon arrival and

Authenticity & Character
The beautiful tiles... so great to just chill and enjoy the beauty. Don't miss the rooftop - take a tea up there, breathtaking views.
Location
Near great landmarks to help you find your way back and a good distance from the main road - not too far. Glad we stayed here.
Staff
Staying here felt like royalty and that is because of the great attention given to every little detail here.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was comfortable (totally comfortable) and the breakfast FEAST was amazing. Only problem was slow drainage in the shower.
Riad Touda
Marrakech

Take me back :) great location, beautiful riad, yummy breakfast, dreamy tiles. Just dreamy.

Authenticity & Character
Really beautiful from the moment you enter. So many gorgeous variations of tile, and calming lime-washed walls - so peaceful with the beautiful water at the center of it all.
Location
It was fun walking back to this riad as it is in a great location with easy to understand landmarks when you get a little turned around. A quick stroll from the market made it great for quickly grabbing dinner or going back and forth during the day.
Staff
So friendly and attentive. The breakfast was delicious, the outstanding service was much appreciated.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfy!
Hotel Odyssee Center
Casablanca

nice first stop to our trip! lovely walking from the hotel to grab a great dinner and then down to the shore.

Authenticity & Character
I loved the sculpture and shaggy rug in the lobby - the bar area is really cute too.
Location
Walkable to restaurants and beautiful shoreline
Staff
Friendly and great service at breakfast!
Cleanliness & Comfort
love the bidet
Dar Laman
Chefchaouen

I want to be back there now. Really beautiful place - an amazing place to stay. The bed was very comfortable and breakfast was great. A1 hospitality! The views are just breathtaking day and night and the sounds in the morning are dreamy.

Authenticity & Character
ahhhh so beautiful! lovely little surprises throughout the room
Location
GREAT to stroll too and fro - close to the square but at the top of the hill
Staff
Attentive hospitality. Much appreciated!
Cleanliness & Comfort
I was very comfortable here - the breakfast was lovely, just so peaceful to enjoy with the beautiful view.
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jul 05, 2026

Hi Niyi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review of your experience with us. It truly means a lot to hear that you had an amazing time with Khaled and other local guides. 

It was an absolute pleasure working with you to plan this adventure, and I’m so happy that the experience turned out to be everything you had hoped for! 

Thanks again for trusting us with your trip, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Morocco in the future. 

Thanks,
Maryem,

12 days of amazing adventures and friendships
Morocco | May 18 - May 30, 2026

Rebecca
Rebecca L.
Aurora, CO, USA | Reviewed on Jun 07, 2026
I cannot adequately put into words how fantastic our 12 Day Moroccan trip was for my daughter, 23, and me, from the planning stage with Maryem to being dropped off at the Casablanca airport by Ziad at the end. We ventured to Rabat, Tangier, Chefchouen, Fez, Merzouga, Ait Ouffi, Marrakech, and Casablanca, and even with all of that, it was not enough; I need to go back and explore even more of this wonderful country.
It all started when I stumbled across the Kim Kim site while attempting to...
Read more

I cannot adequately put into words how fantastic our 12 Day Moroccan trip was for my daughter, 23, and me, from the planning stage with Maryem to being dropped off at the Casablanca airport by Ziad at the end. We ventured to Rabat, Tangier, Chefchouen, Fez, Merzouga, Ait Ouffi, Marrakech, and Casablanca, and even with all of that, it was not enough; I need to go back and explore even more of this wonderful country.
It all started when I stumbled across the Kim Kim site while attempting to plan the trip on my own. My daughter created a profile, and the next thing I knew, Maryem was assigned as our travel planner. She put together an outstanding package for us, capturing everything we wanted and making the process so much fun! She encouraged feedback and changes and gave advice when solicited. We changed a couple of the riads to ones we found, and I regret not using the one she originally selected for us in Marrakech.
Maryem built an incredible journey for us through Morocco, allowing us to experience the diversity of the country; my daughter and I felt the love she poured into designing our adventure. After everything was planned, she provided tips to help us, and then we kept in contact with her throughout the trip. She is a sweet and amazing lady who stole a piece of our hearts.
Ziad, our driver & travel manager! Oh my goodness, he made this trip spectacular for us, and we will forever be grateful to have him assigned to take us on this grand adventure. He was so much more than a driver for us; he was our protector, translator, storyteller, and ultimately, our friend. Ziad was a true professional as he navigated the roads, arranged meetups with our tour guides in various cities, made suggestions for stops along the way based on our conversations, and helped us get situated at our riads. We absolutely adore Ziad!
We stayed in 6 riads, 1 hotel, and a luxury camp. Our #1 rated lodging was Dar Rihana Dades in Ait Ouffi in Dades Gorge. It was the perfect setting with an amazing view, a beautiful and spacious room and bathroom, a comfortable bed, delicious dinner and breakfast, and a very welcoming and personable host. Our next favorite riad was the stunning Riad Nila in Chefchouen, and our 3rd was Riad Kalaa in Rabat, with a beautiful courtyard and delicious food.
The Tiziri Luxury Camp in the Sahara Desert was a wonderful experience with a camel ride, stopping to watch the sunset, dinner, and traditional music afterwards.
We had two amazing and passionate tour guides during our journey: Othman in Rabat, who has never met a stranger, and then Mountain (Mohamed), our hiking guide in Dades Valley, who welcomed us into his home for a meal with his family.

Hotel Reviews
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga

What a fun experience to camp out in the Sahara Desert! We were offered the choice of riding on a camel out to the camp or riding in a vehicle. We chose the camel, and it took about two hours, with a stop to watch the sunset. We arrived and had a delicious dinner, followed by traditional music afterwards around a fire. The tent was very spacious, and the bathroom was much more than what I expected for tent life. The staff was fantastic! We met with them down at the bottom before our ride up to the camp, and then they fed and entertained us into the night.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casablanca Marriott Hotel
Casablanca

This is a beautiful new hotel with very comfy bedding. The staff were very friendly, and we enjoyed our stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palais Zahia
Old Medina, Tangier

This riad was in the middle of the medina, a perfect location for exploring the town. It had lots of character and charm.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ryad Salama
Fes

What a beautiful riad in Fez! The hosts were very welcoming, and the courtyard was gorgeous with lush vegetation, a fountain, and a pool. The room was huge with beautiful stained glass windows.

Authenticity & Character
We loved the stained glass windows in our room and bathroom, and it was the most beautiful courtyard of all the ones we stayed in over 12 days there. The bathroom had an incredible sunken tub & shower.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
This riad was so very clean and lovely and served amazing food. My only complaint is that these were the hardest beds during our trip. I probably could have asked for a mattress topper, but I didn't even think about it at the time. I found an extra blanket in the closet and used that as a mattress pad for two nights.
Riad Kalaa
Rabat

This was our first experience staying in a riad, and we loved it. The staff were very friendly and gave us our first mint tea and cookies in Morocco, which I came to love. The room we stayed in was beautiful, as was the courtyard and patio on the roof. The food was exceptional at dinner and lovely at breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Nila
Chefchaouen

This riad was simply stunning with its elegance, neutral color patterns, and numerous nooks and crannies to explore, including multiple patio levels overlooking the gorgeous town; I would recommend it to anyone staying in Chefchouen.

Authenticity & Character
The design of the hotel is spectacular and simply beautiful.
Location
Very easy to get to and the views from the room and the patio were wonderful.
Staff
Everyone we encountered was very nice.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Rihana Dades
Douar Aït Ouffi

Of the 8 places we stayed in during our 12-day adventure, this was our favorite one. It is located in the perfect setting with an amazing view, and it was so calm and peaceful; I could have stayed there for much longer and was sad to leave the area. The room was beautifully appointed, serene and spacious, had very comfortable beds and a large and lovely bathroom. Dar Rihana Dades provided delicious breakfasts and dinners in a lovely dining room, with quantities of food that made you groan, but you kept eating because it was so good. And as wonderful as all of this was, it was made even better by the very welcoming and personable host, who also served our meals and entertained all the guests with his charm and wit.

Authenticity & Character
The colors throughout the riad are simple and elegant, and the walls are adorned with captivating portraits. The rooms and bathrooms are beautifully designed, the patio areas have lovely wrought iron railings and spiral stairs. The pool is a stunning blue, very clean and the lounge area around it is large and well laid out.
Location
The riad is located in the lush, green Dades Valley, surrounded by terracotta colored hills. The view here was by far the best one we had. I fell in love with the serenity of the area, and we went hiking with a guide while there.
Staff
Everyone at Dar Rihana Dades was very welcoming and happy, but none more so than Mohamed. He greeted us with a huge smile when we arrived, brought our luggage to our rooms, and served us breakfast and dinner; I'm not sure when he sleeps! As he moved around the dining room, he easily conversed with all of the guests, making everyone comfortable with his wit and charm, making us smile and laugh. I had gotten hurt before arriving at the riad, and during dinner I asked if we could move to a table near the window because I was starting to feel light-headed. He quickly moved us and opened the windows on both sides of the room for a cross breeze. He checked on me repeatedly to ensure I was okay, and at the end of the meal he brought me ice for my swollen lip. In addition, each day he would check in with the guests to see if we slept well and if there was anything we needed. While the quality of the Dar was outstanding, Mohamed's attention to the guests made it an even better experience. Oh, and whenever we were out on the main patio, he would bring us refreshing ginger and orange juice drinks.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Not only was the riad very clean and beautifully decorated, it smelled so good in the lobby/lounge area; I commented on it to my daughter each time we passed through it. As for the beds, of the 8 places we stayed in while venturing around Morocco, these were the most cozy and comfortable. It turns out Moroccans like their beds more firm than I'm used to, so it was very pleasant to fall deeply asleep in a nice cozy and comfortable bed.
Activity Reviews
Tangier to Chefchaouen: Hercules Caves, Tetouan & the Rif Mountains
Tangier to Chefchaouen: Hercules Caves, Tetouan & the Rif Mountains
Morocco

It was a beautiful drive from Tangier to Chefchouen! We made numerous stops along the way with our phenomenal driver/travel manager, Ziad. We had fun at the Hercules Caves, getting dressed up in traditional clothing.

Guided Tour of Tangier
Guided Tour of Tangier
Tangier

We liked our guide, Kalid, a.k.a. Columbo. He was very nice, but I would have liked to explore more of Tangier and not just the medina. He was very sweet and did take us to a nice restaurant to grab a bite to eat because we were so hungry; maybe this took away from our tour time and from exploring more with him.

Rabat to Tangier with Guided Tour in Both Cities
Rabat to Tangier with Guided Tour in Both Cities
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ziad, our driver & travel manager! Oh my goodness, he made this trip spectacular for us, and we will forever be grateful to have him assigned to take us on this grand adventure. He was so much more than a driver for us; he was our protector, translator, storyteller, and ultimately, our friend. Ziad was a true professional as he navigated the roads, arranged meetups with our tour guides in various cities, made suggestions for stops along the way based on our conversations, and helped us get situated at our riads. We absolutely adore Ziad!
Transport
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Rabat

Osman (Othman) was our tour guide, and we loved him! He was so personable and knowledgeable about the history of Rabat. He smiled, laughed, knew everyone throughout the city, and shared his passion for his town with us. I highly recommend him to anyone visiting Rabat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Our personal driver and travel manager, Ziad, made the trip throughout Morocco amazing.
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jun 07, 2026

Hi Rebecca,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review of your experience with us! I’m super grateful to hear that we exceeded your expectations and created such a memorable trip for you and your daughter! And I’m so happy to hear that you had such an amazing time with your driver Ziad and other local guides.

Thanks again for trusting us with your trip, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future, you and your friends/family who may wish to visit Morocco! 

Keep in touch,
Maryem

Mohamed, our driver/guide became like a fami...
Morocco | May 16 - May 27, 2026

Jeff
Jeff A.
Cape Coral, FL | Reviewed on Jun 04, 2026
Mohamed, our driver/guide became like a family member to us. He was thoughtful, caring and very detailed. Our memories would not be the same without him. Read more

Mohamed, our driver/guide became like a family member to us. He was thoughtful, caring and very detailed. Our memories would not be the same without him.

Hotel Reviews
Casablanca Marriott Hotel
Casablanca

Our chef at the steakhouse, Mohamed, was great!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palais Sebban
Marrakech

Great hotel. Only complaint was breakfast wasn't staffed well. Always had to ask for cups, glasses, silverware and items not replenished.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Rihana Dades
Boumalne Dades

Mohamed was excellent, his focus on customer service was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
RIAD VILLA AMOOD
Merzouga

This hotel was excellent, from the pool, to the drinks to the dinner. Abdul was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jun 05, 2026

Hi Jeff,
Thank you so much for sharing this. We’re thrilled to hear how much Mohamed meant to your journey. His care and attention truly make a difference, and I’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to him.
Best,
Maryem

Had a great tour, driver Housanie was great, ...
Morocco | May 25 - May 31, 2026

S
Stephen R.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 02, 2026

Had a great tour, driver Housanie was great, saw many new sites and enjoyed my time in Morroco.

Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jun 03, 2026

Hi Stephen,
I’m delighted to hear you had a great tour and enjoyed your time in Morocco. I’m also glad Housaine took such good care of you. We truly appreciate you choosing to travel with us and would be happy to welcome you back anytime.
Warm regards,
Maryem

Absolutely fantastic trip made all the more m...
Morocco | May 15 - May 24, 2026

Jez
Jez S.
New Zealand | Reviewed on May 25, 2026
Absolutely fantastic trip made all the more memorable by our fantastic driver and host Ismail. He had a huge depth of knowledge and was always able to answer all of our questions. We have so many great memories and are forever in his debt. Could not recommend Ismail
And Kim Kim highly enough for this trip.
Read more

Absolutely fantastic trip made all the more memorable by our fantastic driver and host Ismail. He had a huge depth of knowledge and was always able to answer all of our questions. We have so many great memories and are forever in his debt. Could not recommend Ismail
And Kim Kim highly enough for this trip.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Mimouna
Essaouira

Great Moroccan hotel to stay at in central Medina location. Seaview rooms worth upgrading to as other rooms can be a little dark.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kasbah Azul
Agdz

Great Hotel and a calm oasis - suited us perfectly.Nice pool and very relaxing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga

Great location and superb glamping. Good food and very friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Rihana Dades
Douar Aït Ouffi

The chef and food at this Dar was amazing - Mohammed the host could not do enough for us - you must stay at this place.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Elegancia Riad Boutique & SPA
Marrakech

Great little Boutique hotel - absolutely fitted our stay and was a peaceful retreat from the mayhem of Marrakesh!

Authenticity & Character
Great Riad and a peaceful Oasis
Location
Located within Medina and easy to walk to attraction and restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on May 26, 2026

Hi Jez,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your experience with us. It truly means a lot to hear that your trip was made so memorable by our fantastic driver and host, Ismail.
Thanks again for trusting us with your travels. We look forward to welcoming you back to Morocco for more discoveries and unforgettable experiences in the future!
Thanks,
Maryem

What a wonderful trip of lifetime
Morocco | Apr 6 - Apr 13, 2026

W
Wendy n.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Apr 18, 2026
We had the most incredible time in Morocco! Firstly, Maryem, our trip coordinator did a wonderful job tailoring the itinerary to our liking and was quick to respond to any questions we had during our travels. The guides, hotels, excursions, and travel arrangements were fabulous. The highlights of our trip were, our time walking around the blue streets of Chefchaouen, the food tour in Fez, the ruins of Volubilis, and our stay in Agafay. The best part of our trip was Hamid, our amazing travel... Read more

We had the most incredible time in Morocco! Firstly, Maryem, our trip coordinator did a wonderful job tailoring the itinerary to our liking and was quick to respond to any questions we had during our travels. The guides, hotels, excursions, and travel arrangements were fabulous. The highlights of our trip were, our time walking around the blue streets of Chefchaouen, the food tour in Fez, the ruins of Volubilis, and our stay in Agafay. The best part of our trip was Hamid, our amazing travel expert. He was just the best! He was punctual, kind, funny, warm, inviting, a great driver, and embodied all the best aspects of Moroccan hospitality. I cannot recommend him enough. Under the Moroccan Sun will ensure you will have the trip of a lifetime and we are already thinking of our next tailored adventure with them.
Thank you!

Hotel Reviews
Alkamar Camp
Marrakech

By far our favorite stay of the trip. Special shoutout to Mohammed who looked out for us during our stay. The food was incredible, the room was insanely beautiful (private pool and fireplace). Wish we could have stayed here longer!

Authenticity & Character
The best. Live performances and music. Authentic food. Down to the blankets, everything was perfect.
Location
In the desert. Great views and camels walking walking by.
Staff
Mohammed. The best ever!! Went above and beyond, can't say enough good things about him.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great shower. Very private feeling room.
Hôtel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura
Marrakech

The best breakfast of the trip! Fresh Msemmen made in front of you!! Room was clean and comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Central and easy to walk everywhere from the hotel.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen

Gorgeous!!! Loved our stay here. Room was beautiful, beds large and comfortable, the best shower. Breakfast was amazing, and so were the amenities (pool, rooftop, spa treatments).

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful and charming.
Location
Central location.
Staff
Very kind and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable.
Riad Dar Dar
Rabat

Wouldn't stay here again... It was our first night though so we didn't spend much time here. Staff was nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the Medina.
Staff
One guy who seemed to be running the whole operation, and did very well! Very helpful with our bags, serving breakfast, and with finding the Riyad.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds uncomfortable, poor lighting, not the best bathroom. Just don't expect luxury.
Activity Reviews
Walking tour of Marrakech
Walking tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh

Our guide Mohammed was one of the best! He was very knowledgeable and laid back (especially on plants in the Jardin Majorelle). Marrakech is just beautiful. Don't skip the YSL museum, it is a wonderful collection.

Quality of Experience
Food
We recommend. Comptoir Darna.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Fes Food Tour
Fes Food Tour
Fes

Feta was our very favorite guide. Major shoutout to him, the king of the Moroccan guides. My daughter has a severe nut allergy, and as you will learn nuts are a prominent feature in Moroccan desserts. He was extremely understanding of this and cautious. He triple checked with vendors every time. We just walked around the Souk and tried all the things that peaked our interest. The best way to really get to know Morocco. You must try the potato croquettes and fresh cheeses!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Fes walking guided tour : No drive
Fes walking guided tour : No drive
Fes

Mohammed!! Loved this guide! So funny and informative. Again, he seemed to know everyone in town and watching him interact with everyone was a highlight. He helped us get a great price on our bags at the tannery too. We loved Fez, it felt the most authentic out of all the bigger cities we visited.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Transfer to Fes: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Transfer to Fes: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Morocco

Volubilis were the most incredible Roman ruins I've seen so far (and I've seen many). You must go before they put the mosaic floors into the museum they are in the process of building. It was incredible to just see them in the grass among the ruins. Donkeys braying in the distance really add to the vibe.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Explore the Blue City
Explore the Blue City
Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a must see! Just gorgeous everywhere you look. The whole town smells like orange blossoms, and as a result has the best orange juice. The guide seemed to know everyone in town and watching him interact with his friends and loved ones was the highlight of the tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Transfer to Chefchaouen from  Rabat via Ouazzane  4 Hours  Drive
Transfer to Chefchaouen from Rabat via Ouazzane 4 Hours Drive
Morocco

Beautiful drive through the Moroccan countryside. So much to see looking out the window.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Rabat

One of our favorite guides. His english was great and he was so knowledgable. We learned so much! He even added a stop to see the most beautiful mural as my daughter is an art historian. Rabat overall, is beautiful and clean. Amazing architecture. I just wish we had more time to visit some of the museums.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Yay Hamid!
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Apr 18, 2026

Dear Wendy,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed your time in Morocco and that the itinerary, experiences, and accommodations all came together beautifully.
I’m especially happy to know how much you appreciated Chefchaouen, the Fez food tour, Volubilis, and Agafay — such special places. And your kind words about Hamid truly mean a lot; he embodies the hospitality we strive for.
We’re honored you chose to travel with Under Moroccan Sun and would love to welcome you back for another tailored adventure.
Warm regards,
Maryem

Our guide Mohammad was the best!!!! He took g...
Morocco | Mar 27 - Apr 10, 2026

Mary
Mary G.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Apr 12, 2026
Our guide Mohammad was the best!!!! He took great care of us and was a ton of fun. His van was very clean and comfortable with WiFi. He went above and beyond and made our trip perfect. We saw so much in 15 days, beaches, mountains, farms and of course the Sahara. Our accommodations were top notch. I cannot imagine trying to do this trip any other way. Thank you!! Read more

Our guide Mohammad was the best!!!! He took great care of us and was a ton of fun. His van was very clean and comfortable with WiFi. He went above and beyond and made our trip perfect. We saw so much in 15 days, beaches, mountains, farms and of course the Sahara. Our accommodations were top notch. I cannot imagine trying to do this trip any other way. Thank you!!

Activity Reviews
Camel trek to your camp
Camel trek to your camp
Merzouga

Once in a lifetime experience, it was wonderful

Food
It wasn’t great but then again you are in the desert
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fes walking guided tour : No drive
Fes walking guided tour : No drive
Fes

I don’t know how you would do Fez without a guide. Our guide was very knowledgeable and well known in the area.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Berber Hike to Akchour Waterfall Lunch by the river
Berber Hike to Akchour Waterfall Lunch by the river
Chefchaouen
Quality of Experience
Food
Best tangine of the trip
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very knowledgeable guide
Transport
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Rabat

Great tour guide

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Maryem Kouna
Maryem
Maryem Kouna
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Apr 14, 2026

Hi Mary,
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We’re thrilled to hear that Mohammad took such great care of you and helped make your 15‑day journey unforgettable. It means a lot to know you enjoyed the comfort, the landscapes, and the accommodations. We truly appreciate you traveling with us and hope to welcome you back again.
Best,
Maryem