Things to Do in Morocco?

The ultimate vacation destination when you don't know where to go for sun, Morocco shines in the hearts of many travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, the vastness of its desert, and its typical architecture... Whether you decide to head to Marrakech to explore its Medina, admire the beauty of the ocean in Essaouira, see the Ouzoud Falls, or visit Paradise Valley, Morocco is rich in discoveries! In this article, discover things to do in Morocco with this top 20 list of must-see activities

Paradise Valley is a mythical place renowned for its extraordinary beauty. Often mentioned in literature, it's an iconic location to discover in Morocco... Many religious traditions are associated with Paradise Valley as heavenly rewards for virtuous souls after death...

In Christian tradition, it is sometimes described as the Garden of Eden where Adam and Eve lived before their expulsion. In Islam, Paradise, or Jannah in Arabic, is often represented as a lush garden set in a green valley where believers are rewarded for their good deeds

If you're wondering how to visit Paradise Valley, you can easily allot half a day to it if you have a rental car. Once there, you can explore the surroundings on a hike in the mountains and recharge near the waterfalls and pools...

Be sure to book your activities in Morocco ahead of time!

Are you about to travel but don't know what to do in Morocco? In this article, I'll share all the must-do activities and visits during your stay. Spend a night in the Marrakech desert, discover natural wonders like the Ouzoud Falls and Paradise Valley, visit the most beautiful cities and villages in the country, and discover historical and architectural sites such as the Medina of Essaouira... There's no shortage of activities in Morocco! Do remember to book your tours and activities before your departure to fully enjoy your vacation!

Famous for its vast golden sand dunes, particularly the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes, it's clear that the village of Merzouga is a must-see for its natural beauty... If you have the opportunity to travel to Morocco, I encourage you to book a desert excursion that includes a visit to Merzouga!

The village is home to a predominantly Berber population, and their ancestral culture is perfectly reflected in the village. You can discover their traditions through music and cuisine, alongside magnificent trekking sessions on camelback through the dunes... This way, you can witness spectacular sunsets in the Sahara desert or even camp under the stars in a traditional setting... ⛺️

The village offers a nice range of accommodations from traditional nomadic camps to beautiful desert lodges. It's also a great opportunity to visit the surrounding areas, including the Todra and Dadès gorges!

Take an excursion for 3 days in the Merzouga desert from Marrakech, discover the beauty of the Sahara desert, and experience stunning sunsets for around €118 per person.

Located near Ouarzazate at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Aït Benhaddou is a historic site cherished for its remarkable beauty and traditional Moroccan ambiance. This fortress features beautiful adobe architecture, a mixture of earth, straw, and water, overlooking the Ounila Valley...

Constructed several centuries ago, Aït Benhaddou is an exceptional example of southern Moroccan architecture with its earthen houses, defensive towers, and winding streets... Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding desert from its heights!

This beauty straight out of a tale from the Thousand and One Nights has also served as a backdrop for numerous films and series such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones... Book your excursion from Marrakech for around €22

If you're not sure what to do near Marrakech, you should definitely book a day trip to the Ouzoud Falls for €19 per person! Located in the Middle Atlas mountains, they are among the most beautiful waterfalls in Africa, reaching heights of up to 110 meters and offering three breathtaking tiers!

Surrounded by lush vegetation, including olive trees, fig trees, and almond trees, the Ouzoud Falls feature winding paths leading to the base of the waterfalls. Throughout the hike, you'll enjoy various viewpoints and may encounter Barbary macaques, a must-see attraction for many tourists. These primates actually inhabit the cliffs and surrounding forests.

On-site, you can purchase artisanal products from many vendors lining the trail and take a boat ride to get closer to the Ouzoud Falls! Additionally, I suggest dining at one of the many restaurants overlooking the falls, and be sure to dress warmly!

Located at the edge of the Sahara, the city of Ouarzazate is the main city in the Draa Valley. Therefore, it's an ideal base for desert excursions, in the High Atlas, or to the Toudra gorges

I also recommend visiting Ouarzazate with its grand Kasbah of Taourirt. This fortified complex dating back to the first half of the 20th century houses a mosque and the remnants of the old city of Ouarzazate. Don't forget to stroll through the Medina and enjoy the local cuisine!

Previously known as Mogador and famous for being one of the most powerful fishing ports in the world, Essaouira is a must-visit destination. This charming city along the Atlantic Ocean offers stunning views of the horizon while harboring a unique traditional charm...

Famous for its beautiful harbor housing a shipyard, its imposing ramparts, and its Portuguese-inspired architecture, the city known as the Wind City houses the must-see Medina...

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Medina of Essaouira shares architecture in Arabic, Berber, and European styles. It is filled with souks and artisan shops where you can purchase colorful textiles, clothing, accessories, leather goods, pottery, spices, and various foods.

Continue your visit by spending time on Essaouira beach, well-known for its strong winds and powerful waves that delight surfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts! ‍♂️ If you're not a fan of water activities, then take a walk along the beach and relax on a deck chair to enjoy the view...

If you're looking to stay overnight, I have an article dedicated to the best places to stay in Essaouira. If you don't stay here, it's entirely possible to reach Essaouira from Marrakech or Agadir by renting a car or participating in a guided excursion to Essaouira from Marrakech, starting at €19 per person.

What is the name of the blue village in Morocco? If you've ever wondered, it is Chefchaouen, a picturesque little town nestled in the Rif mountains. Famous for its narrow streets and houses painted in shades of blue, Chefchaouen shares a unique and enchanting atmosphere...

Founded in 1471 and completed in 1480, Chefchaouen was created to welcome Jews and Muslims fleeing the Spanish Inquisition, while the presence of Christians remained forbidden under penalty of death... You can admire its traditional architecture, shaded squares, and beautiful fountains! The streets of the village are lined with artisan shops and boast breathtaking views of the mountains!

For travelers intending to hike in the Rif mountains, Chefchaouen is an excellent starting point. So don't hesitate to explore the surroundings based on the time you have available

There are various excursions if you want to discover Chefchaouen for a day:

Day trip to Chefchaouen from Tangier (€43 per person)

Explore Chefchaouen from Fez (€20 per person)

Among the must-visit cities in Morocco, Fez holds a special place in the country's cultural vibrance. An ancient capital, many visitors go there every year to enjoy its authentic ambiance. With its traditional medina, a stunning mosque, and its colorful souk, you'll find plenty to do during your visit, such as activities in Fez.

The must-do activity for me is visiting the city's tanneries. With an ancient textile tradition, you can discover a fascinating craftsmanship that plays an important role in Moroccan craftsmanship. To fully enjoy everything the city has to offer, I recommend participating in a guided tour of Fez accessible for just €12 per person! A local guide will take you through the medina, the souk, and other must-see spots for 3 hours and 30 minutes (tour available in French).

Marrakech, often dubbed the Red City, is undeniably a must-see!

It attracts thousands of tourists every year for the beauty of its medina, a true labyrinth of alleys bustling with souks, activities, and artisan shops... It is located near Jemaa el-Fna Square, a large esplanade always in motion with snake charmers and souks...

You can discover the beautiful gardens of Marrakech like the Majorelle Gardens, owned by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berger, which offer a lovely palette of blues and typical architecture. As for the Agdal Garden, several centuries old, it's the ideal link for strolling and escaping the hustle and bustle.

Good idea: This combined ticket includes entry to the Majorelle Gardens, the Yves Saint Laurent museum, as well as the Berger museum for less than €50 per person

Other iconic monuments of Marrakech will tell you its history, such as the Koutoubia minaret and its Hispano-Moorish architecture. The Bahia Palace, former residence of the grand vizier, will enchant you with its ornamented courtyards and beautiful lush gardens.

Located in the northwest of Morocco, Casablanca is one of the largest cities in the Maghreb! Its dynamism combining modernity and tradition guarantees an unforgettable visit during your stay in Morocco. I actually have an entire article if you're looking for things to do in Casablanca

Among the must-sees are the Hassan II Mosque with its 200 m high minaret, the old medina and its lively alleys, the promenade along the Corniche, and traditional hammams-visits not to be missed to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Casablanca!

Tangier is undoubtedly one of the oldest cities in Morocco. Located at the northernmost point of the country, this port city overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar just about fifteen kilometers from the Spanish coast. It attracts numerous visitors each year and is among the most visited cities in the country ️

Tangier is easily explored on foot with a charming, albeit compact, historic center. I especially recommend wandering through the medina while enjoying the markets and traditional architecture. You can also stop along the way to sample the local cuisine. Tangier is also ideal for enjoying Moroccan beaches, especially with the Hercules Caves that offer stunning views of the Mediterranean.

The Draa Valley is undoubtedly one of my favorite spots for beautiful walks and hikes in Morocco. Located near the border with Algeria, the Draa is the longest river in the country (1100 km!) and offers spectacular landscapes of desert expanses, picturesque villages, and verdant oases.

To explore the region, you can visit the Draa Valley on your own if you have a vehicle. Otherwise, many excursions offer tours of the valley, typically as part of multi-day itineraries through the desert. Among the must-see spots, I recommend visiting the Mezguita oasis near Agdz, enjoying the Tizri waterfall, or discovering the rock paintings of Foum Chenna

Ideal for water sports such as surfing and kitesurfing, the Dakhla Lagoon will amaze you with its stunning beauty, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes! This rich and diverse ecosystem is home to a lovely variety of flora and fauna, including flamingos and beautiful seagulls

Aside from taking long walks on the lagoon, the Dragon Island , named for its rock formations resembling dragons, is a refuge for local wildlife. It is home to various species of seabirds that can breed in peace, perfect for ornithology lovers.

Among the places to visit in Morocco, don't hesitate to explore the Atlas Mountains. By doing so, you might discover stunning natural sites like the Dades gorges, sculpted by its namesake river over millennia. These gorges snake through the mountains and offer spectacular landscapes with steep cliffs and impressive rock formations soaring to dizzying heights!

The Dades is known for its picturesque roads that curve like the gorges, which many visitors enjoy driving or biking along! They are also dotted with traditional Berber villages offering the opportunity to discover the authentic, centuries-old lifestyle of its residents.

The Toudra Valley (or Todgha) is a must-stop for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located in the heart of the High Atlas, the Toudra Valley is renowned for its gorges carved by the Todgha river. With rock walls reaching up to 300 m high, it's a favorite spot for climbers and climbing enthusiasts, provided they are well-equipped!

If you're not a fan of climbing, you can still admire this natural wonder by strolling through the gorges. Several hiking trails are easily accessible for all levels. Otherwise, most desert excursions from Merzouga include a visit to the gorges as part of the itinerary

As the capital of Morocco, Rabat is filled with activities and sights to see during a visit to Morocco. With several UNESCO World Heritage sites, this large city benefits from remarkable cultural and tourist dynamism.

Among the must-sees, the city center boasts an authentic ambiance with several remarkable monuments such as the Church of Rabat. Numerous museums are also worth a detour in the city, including the Bank Al-Maghrib museum or the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. For a more unusual visit, don't miss out on visiting the catacombs of Rabat!

Another one of my favorite spots in Morocco is the Fint Oasis. Located about 12 km from the city of Ouarzazate, this natural gem is perfect for hiking, biking trips, or even donkey rides. If these landscapes look familiar when you arrive, it's likely because many films and series have been shot right there, like Game of Thrones in 2013, Babel in 2006, and Prince of Persia in 2010

Located about thirty kilometers from Marrakech, the Agafay desert is undoubtedly one of the most visited sites in the country. With its vast desert expanse, many activities are available in the region. From classic excursions to more sporty quad outings, you'll find options for every taste and budget!

For my part, I opted for the desert excursion from Marrakech, which includes a camel ride at sunset, a visit to an argan oil factory, and a dinner show to wrap up the day, all for just €21 per person!

The archaeological site of Volubilis is a must-visit for history enthusiasts in Morocco! These ruins testify to the ancient Roman occupation and preserve the remnants of the former capital of the kingdom of Mauretania. Located in northern Morocco, the site consists of the ruins of ancient palaces, houses, baths, an arch, and a temple! ️

To visit this site, you can go directly to the location to purchase a ticket available for about €7 per person (or 70 DHS). Several excursions also include a visit to the Volubilis site, such as this day trip to Meknes from Fez, accessible for around €15 per person (excluding entry fees to Volubilis).

The High Atlas is the highest mountain range in North Africa. It stretches for 750 km and reaches over 4,000 m in altitude. Nicknamed the roof of North Africa, it offers splendid panoramas over the Moroccan landscapes. Of course, you don't have to climb to the summit to enjoy the hiking paths. You can enjoy many routes within the mountains starting from several cities in Morocco such as Marrakech or Ouarzazate.

For the more experienced (or the bolder), there is also a trek to climb the summit of the High Atlas. For that, I recommend this 2-day guided hike to Mount Toubkal which includes meals and a night in a refuge. You'll need about €103 per person and a lot of strength in your legs to reach 3,000 m in altitude (good luck!)

Air travel is undoubtedly the most efficient way to quickly reach Morocco! The country has several airports allowing travelers to connect to all the iconic cities, including the following:

From France, many airlines provide flights to Morocco, including low-cost lines such as Ryanair and EasyJet offering very attractive rates. On average, a round trip flight from Paris to Marrakech costs about €100.

By booking flight tickets in advance through low-cost airlines, one can find flights for only €30-40 round trip. Prices obviously depend on the departure period, the city of arrival/departure, and the date of your booking To find the best deals, you can also use travel comparison sites like Ulysse, which has allowed me to save quite a bit! ️

As for the flight duration, it usually lasts around 3 hours, which is quick and quite reasonable. Of course, this depends on the departure and arrival city and whether there are layovers or not depending on the airline chosen.

Wondering when to visit Morocco? Spring and autumn are considered the best times for vacationing in Morocco while enjoying the country's beauty. Both seasons offer pleasant temperatures, far from the oppressive summer heat, low tourist traffic, and sunny days every day! ☀️

Although the rate of precipitation is slightly higher between April and May and in October, it won't stop you from fully enjoying your stay in Morocco. These seasons are also very budget-friendly, similar to going to Morocco in February or March, which are also excellent options.

Marrakech, Essaouira, Casablanca, Agadir, and Fez all have many destinations to stay when traveling to Morocco. Depending on the city you have chosen for your next stay, I strongly recommend checking out my articles dedicated to each destination. To save you time, here's a selection of the best accommodations to sleep in Morocco:

If you are looking for where to stay in Tangier, Kasbah Rose offers spacious and comfortable rooms, with a balcony and a small sitting area. The establishment also has a shared lounge and a terrace offering panoramic views of the mountains. For a night in this establishment, expect to pay starting from €74 for two people.

Riad Amaris is ideal if you are looking for a place to stay in Rabat. This traditional Riad offers comfortable rooms decorated with care, equipped with a private bathroom. The staff is attentive and a continental breakfast is served every morning. Expect to pay starting from €122 for a night.

If you are looking for a Riad in Marrakech located near the secret garden, Riad Dar Teranga Hotel & Spa offers air-conditioned and fully equipped accommodations, with a view of the city and terrace access. On-site, you can also enjoy a family restaurant serving local cuisine and various dishes. For one night in this Riad, budget around €167 for two people.

To dive deeper, I recommend reading my articles on the addresses where to stay in Agadir, where to stay in Fez, or where to stay in Casablanca!

That's it for this article on things to do in Morocco! And if you're still looking for things to do in Marrakech or things to do in Essaouira, you can check out my articles dedicated to the main cities of Morocco! If there are other must-see spots missing from this article, feel free to let me know in the comments