Morocco: A World of Contrasts
Few countries offer such dramatic contrasts in such a compact space. Morocco blends Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and French influences into a culture that feels entirely its own — ancient medina cities that have barely changed in centuries sit just hours from the vast orange dunes of the Sahara. It's a destination that engages every sense.
The Imperial Cities
Morocco has four imperial cities, each with its own character and unmissable medina (old city):
Marrakech
The most visited, and for good reason. Djemaa el-Fna square is unlike anything else on earth — a carnival of storytellers, snake charmers, food stalls, and musicians that ramps up every evening. Beyond the square, the souks are a labyrinth of leather, spices, lanterns, and carpets. Stay in a traditional riad — a courtyard guesthouse — for an authentic and often surprisingly affordable experience.
Fès
Fès el-Bali, the old city of Fès, is one of the world's largest living medieval cities — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 9,000 narrow streets. The Chouara Tannery, where leather has been dyed using the same methods for centuries, is one of Morocco's most iconic sights. Visit with a guide for your first day; the medina is genuinely disorienting without one.
Chefchaouen
Technically not an imperial city, but unmissable — the famous "Blue City" in the Rif Mountains is a compact medina painted entirely in shades of blue and white. It's calmer and more relaxed than Marrakech, and the mountain hiking nearby is excellent.
The Sahara Desert Experience
For many travelers, sleeping in the Sahara is the highlight of Morocco. The main access point is Merzouga, near the Erg Chebbi dunes. The classic experience:
- Arrive in Merzouga by shared taxi, bus, or rental car from Fès or Marrakech (roughly 7–9 hours).
- Ride camels into the dunes at sunset to your desert camp.
- Sleep in a Berber tent camp — from basic to surprisingly comfortable glamping.
- Wake before sunrise to watch the light transform the dunes before riding back.
The drive itself — through the Draa Valley, past kasbahs and palm oases — is part of the experience. Consider renting a car or booking a private driver for the Atlas Mountain crossing.
Food: What to Eat in Morocco
- Tagine: Morocco's signature slow-cooked stew — lamb with prunes and almonds, chicken with preserved lemon, or vegetable variations.
- Couscous: Traditionally served on Fridays, with seven vegetables and slow-cooked meat.
- Pastilla: A flaky pastry filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and a dusting of icing sugar — surprisingly delicious.
- Harira soup: A rich tomato, chickpea, and lentil soup traditionally served to break the Ramadan fast.
- Mint tea: The national beverage — poured from height to create froth and served sweet. Refusing tea is considered rude.
Practical Travel Tips for Morocco
- Bargaining is expected in the souks — start at roughly half the asking price and negotiate calmly. It's a social ritual, not a confrontation.
- Dress modestly: Especially outside of tourist resorts. Covering shoulders and knees is respectful and will reduce unwanted attention.
- Cash is king: Many smaller establishments, medina shops, and rural areas don't accept cards. ATMs are widely available in cities.
- Guides: Official licensed guides are available at tourist offices in every medina city. They're worth it for the first day anywhere new.
- Photography: Always ask before photographing people. Some locals will ask for payment — agree on an amount beforehand if you wish to photograph them.
Best Time to Visit
March–May and October–November are ideal. Summer (June–August) brings extreme heat, especially in Marrakech and the desert. Winter is mild in coastal cities but cold in the mountains and desert nights.