Morocco is one of the best countries in the world and, for many, the first destination to visit in Africa. It is a country that intrigues and excites tourists as it is entirely diverse. If you have never been there, you must have seen it, at least in the Game of Thrones or Gladiator, since it is a fertile background in many Hollywood movies.
List of Morocco’s Top 7 Destinations
In the following list, we will present the most popular destinations that you should visit in Morocco.
1. Marrakech
Some people had known Marrakech even before they knew Morocco. The city is known for its magic and Charm. You will be surprised by the strange things you will see there. At the heart of Marrakech is a square named Jammaa El Fnaa, which implies the dead square in Arabic. The magicians, snack charmers, musicians, and artists start their shows at night, and can witness things you have never seen before.
Besides, many monuments show the past’s greatness and glory if you love traditional architecture. You can start by Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and Majorelle Garden. You can visit Marrakech with a guide or book a tour with a Moroccan travel operator. Many of them offer 14-day Morocco itineraries, and they include all the best destinations in Morocco.
2. Fez
Fez is the oldest surviving city in the world and has served as the Moroccan capital for several years. Though it was built in 789, many people still live in its building. The city features two old medinas. Fez el Bali has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architecture, alleys, courtyards, traditional markets, and people. The city is also known for being home to the oldest university in the world, a Koranic school, and is still open today.
The best places to visit in Fez include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha, Chouara Tannery, Medersa Bou Inania, Al-Attarine Madrasa… However, there is a high risk of getting lost in the city. Its multiple, narrow alleys are sneaky, and you cannot get out quickly. Therefore, we advise you to get a guide before you go there – at least on the first day.
3. Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou
Ksar Ait Ben Haddou is not a city in Morocco but a fortified site in the south, just 2 hours drive from Marrakesh. Many people have seen this beautiful Kasbah even if they didn’t travel to Morocco. The Kasbah has served as a background for many Hollywood movies, including Cleopatra, Gladiator, Prince of Persia, Game of Thrones….etc.
All these movies have been shot in the Kasbah and its surrounding area. You need to rent a car or book with a travel operator to get there. Often, they offer a 3-day journey from Marrakech to Merzouga. The tour includes a visit to all destinations in the desert.
4. Atlas Studio
Atlas Studio is located in the Sahara Desert and is the largest cinema studio in the world. It encompasses the surrounding desert and mountains. Many tools and customs from various movies have remained in place. Because of this, the studio also operates with guided tours and has become a popular tourist destination. The entry to the studio is just 7$, including the guide. It is accessible from Ouarzazate or on your way to the Desert from Marrakesh.
5. Merzouga Desert
If you love adventures, the desert of Merzouga is for you. The Desert of Merzouga is around 10 10-hour drive from Marrakech and 8 hours from Fez. It is the most visited desert in Morocco because it is accessible and safe. It became popular due to Hollywood movies that have been shot there, especially Lawrence of Arabia.
Since then, travelers from around the world have started to visit it. Nowadays, it is one of the top destinations in Morocco. In Merzouga, you will enjoy camel trekking since camels will take you to the heart of the desert. You will camp for a night without wifi or internet and experience primitive life.
6. Meknes
Located just a 1-hour drive from Fez, Meknes is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco. Sultan Moulay Ismaïl built the town during the 18th century and has an impressive medina that starts with the crenulations and motifs of the great Bab El Khemis Gate and ends with the elegant filigrees and inlays of the Dar El Makhzen royal palace.
Meknes is home to Lahdim Square, a small version of Jamaa El Fna in Marrakesh. This square also englobes magicians, artists, and snake charmers. It is also home to an old medina and many monuments you can visit with a guide. However, you cannot get lost if you want to hang out alone. You can book an excursion from Fez, take a train, or use a taxi to visit the city. It is accessible from different places since it is a big city.
7. Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen has a unique charm different from all we have mentioned before. This city is nicknamed “Instagram city.” In 2019, it became a trend among Instagrammers from other parts of the world to take pictures there.
The city is in the Riff mountains, in the North of Morocco. It’s all blue and traditional. Its architecture is a mixture of Andalusian and Moroccan architecture. Most of its inhabitants are Berbers, and they preserved the city’s authenticity.
Chefchaouen is accessible from Fez, Rabat, or Tangier if you fly to Tangier airport. It is full of tourists and visitors, and you will be surprised by its beauty. Finally, Morocco has many unique destinations that reflect its history and greatness. It is not a surprise that it is the first and best destination in Africa.
Throughout history, Morocco has been known for its diversity, not only in terms of geography but also in people. The country has been home to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Also, it has been inhabited by many civilizations, including Carthaginians, Phoenicians, and Romans. These civilizations influenced Morocco’s culture and made it one of the most diverse cultures in the world.
Conclusion
Morocco offers diverse destinations that captivate travelers with their rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene blue alleys of Chefchaouen, each location provides a unique experience. Historical sites like the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou and the ancient city of Fez showcase Morocco’s deep cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the vast Merzouga Desert or the artistic charm of Meknes, Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
