Do you dream of a thousand and one nights, of fairy tales and miracles, of magic and change of scenery? Then let yourself be transported to the twelve most beautiful places in Morocco.
Close your eyes. Imagine. The warmth. All around you, architecture crumbling with detail and color, places brimming with life, stores piled up in alleys, seductive smells, spices tickling your taste buds, friendly people at every door.
Travel a little further. Huge dunes, breathtaking mountains, the sea as far as the eye can see, ochre lands, houses in the rocks, herds of goats in the villages.
You are in Morocco.
Good news? A dream can easily become a reality. The bad news? It will be hard to choose which places to visit in Morocco, since there are so many interesting things to see. But don't panic, because we're here to provide you with a mini-guide to 12 of the most beautiful places in Morocco.
1. The gorge of Toudgha
In southern Morocco, explore the Atlas Mountains. Follow the road into the heart of the Tuuga Valley. Limestone cliffs three hundred meters high split along the road. You enter the lodges of Todga.
To visit Morocco and experience the grandeur of its landscapes, the gorges of Tououdgui are some of the most fabulous. You will have the feeling of being swallowed up by these giants of nature. Next, you can walk to the center of the gorges. You will be able to immerse yourself in the water of the Tuudgy Wadi, the river that irrigates the valley and gives it amazing fertility. While walking, especially, look up! Don't be surprised by the climbers you'll see hanging from the cliffs.
2. The Dades Gorge
In the equivalent style, Dades Gorge is equally impressive. They are located west of the Todga Gorge. Once again, they testify to the incredible beauty of southern Morocco. The accommodations merge with the rock, the views are breathtaking, the geological formations are mesmerizing, and the colors are hardly believable. For those who want to visit Morocco Grand Canyon style, this is a place not to be missed.
For unforgettable memories, admire the vastness of Dades Gorge at sunset from one of the highest points above the road. Finally, you'll notice that it's also a playground for hikers and climbers.
3. Merzouga and the Sahara dunes
It's hard not to drive through the Sahara when you want to visit Morocco. In the southeast of the country is the Saharan village of Merzouga. It is an ideal gateway for exploring Morocco's largest dunes. Also called Erg Chebbi, this moonscape of the Sahara offers a true postcard landscape. There's desert, dunes, and camels as you've always imagined them! As far as the eye can see, there is only a sea of golden sand.
To take advantage of this exceptional place during your stay in Morocco, there are many activities at your disposal: a camel ride, a night under the stars with Saharan nomads, a night in Berber bivouacs or just a sporty hike.
4. The Paradise Valley
A place that lives up to its name! Despite the fact that it is a well-known route for tourists, we advise you to come and see this valley. To visit Morocco is also to discover luxurious oases. It is the Paradise Valley that is one of the most sublime. At the gates of Agadir, this natural wonder offers streams, waterfalls, natural pools of turquoise water, stunning gorges and great biodiversity. Don't hesitate to ask about hiking trails. With or without a guide, feel free to explore less overlooked trails. An opportunity to experience adventure as you travel through the lands of Morocco.
5. Aït-Ben-Haddou
Ait Ben-Haddou stands in the province of Ouarzazate. It is the Moroccan Xar: a typical Maghreb fortified village built here on the hillside. Its value and preservation is so exceptional that this village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can see why it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco.
Ait-Ben Haddou appears as a pile of red-earth dwellings and corner towers surrounded by defensive walls. The ochre and caramel colors of the bricks are breathtaking.
A little extra? The Xara was the setting for many movies: Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Prince of Persia, or Game of Thrones. To the first to find iconic scenes!
6. The Oasis of Fint
South of Ouarzazate, discover Oasis Fint. So "hidden" in Berbera, this enclave opens the doors of a true paradise. When you visit Morocco, you will realize that it is a country of striking contrasts.
Here the lush nature of the palm grove contrasts with the reddening cliffs. The Frinta Oasis is also a beautiful witness to the ingenuity of the Moroccans. The irrigation system allows vegetation to flourish constantly under harsh conditions. All the more so because plantations of palm groves are never accidental.
7. The Ouzoud waterfalls
Looking for something to visit in Morocco after enjoying the madness of one of the imperial capitals? The waterfalls of Ouzoud will make you happy! It is undoubtedly one of the most natural places in Morocco.
One hundred and ten meters high, these waterfalls fall into the rock on three levels dug into the rock. To visit the Uzud Falls, follow the hiking trail that leads through the forest, meeting all kinds of merchants and monkeys. Beware, they are real shredders!
When you get to the foot of the waterfall, you will feel tiny and will not resist the urge to approach these giant waterfalls. Borrow the odd boat to get to the other side and take a break before the giant waterfall. On the way back, the panoramas are just as stunning. Look for a spot where you can see a rainbow over the waterfalls.
8. Chefchaouen
There are a few must-see places to visit in Morocco via the cities. Among them: Chef de la chef or the blue city. Very photogenic, this small town is known for its facades, arches, alleyways, and houses painted completely blue.
Walking through Chef Chef, you will discover a city with surreal scenery whose charms are immediately effective. The interweaving of the streets creates the impression of an enchanting labyrinth. It's impossible not to be enchanted by this labyrinth of indigo, sometimes vibrant and electric, sometimes pale or soft.
As you ascend higher, the bluish hues of the city reveal a magical panorama. During your stay at Chef Chef, don't miss the view at sunset.
9. Marrakech
Of course, if you were to ask me what to visit in Morocco, Marrakech would come to mind. But in the ace where it escapes you, we confirm that the tourist capital is indeed one of the most beautiful places in Morocco. By day and night, the red city has an incredible attraction:
- The crazy atmosphere of the Jamaa El-Fna square;
- The superb Marjorelle Garden
- The marvelous mazes of the souks ;
- The itinerant shops;
- The inescapable Palm grove of Marrakech
- The colors and the omnipresent lights ;
- The couscous with taffy;
- The exotic and majestic gardens;
- The palaces crumbling with ornament and detail;
- Historic buildings and the Koutoubia Mosque;
- The secret and refined raids;
- The rooftops overlooking the incredible Medina.
In short, in Marrakech, you can find your atmosphere a thousand and one nights.
10. Fez
Do you want to visit exquisite, historic and artistic Morocco? Then head to Fez, a mythical city full of sights.
Medina, or the old city, Fez, is considered the most beautiful in the country. Its charm comes from the ubiquitous traces of the past. Every school, mosque or alleyway bears the imprint of history. It is best to get lost in these colors of time.
The Shuara Tannery in Fez is also a must-see. Walk between the pools and then climb to the heights on these colorful terraces. One of the most beautiful live shows during your stay in Fez.
Morocco is also known for its ceramics, and it is in Fez that you will find the most beautiful pieces. Their characteristic features? That piercing blue, whose recipe remains a secret. Pottery from Fez is one of the best souvenirs you can bring from a trip to Morocco.
11. Essaouira
For a stay in Morocco, why not visit Morocco from the sea? Essaouira is a port town with an authentic atmosphere. Walk around its port, where hundreds of boats sail, stroll along its ramparts and enjoy delicious food straight from the sea.
Essaouira is a favorite place to visit in Morocco if you are looking for a quieter place. The overall atmosphere is enveloping and the colors are soft, although you will find a certain effervescence in the fishing market or in the bazaars. Essaouira is also a gem for photographers, as its sunsets are considered some of the most beautiful in Morocco.
12. Dakhla
Dakhla is synonymous with boundless and immaculate land. It's the perfect place to visit Morocco off the beaten path. In the far south of Morocco, the place merges with the desert and the ocean. The dunes are white, the scenery is sometimes lunar, the waters are crystal clear, the beaches are wild and it is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Moreover, few people know this gem of the Moroccan side.
Dakhla Lagoon, its wild beaches and Dragon Island are little paradises where you can bask in the sun, discover natural pools or camp under the stars. Around Dakhla, you can also enjoy a desert tour, a free fish pedicure in Imlila or the Asmaa hot springs.
