Exploring Morocco like a local in a week

Morocco is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse destinations in the world. Here are some of the must-visit destinations in Morocco:

Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant city that's full of life and energy. The city's Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. The Bahia Palace and Jardin Majorelle are also popular attractions that are worth a visit. During our visit, we explored the winding alleyways of the Medina, shopped in the souks, and enjoyed traditional Moroccan mint tea at a rooftop cafe while watching the sunset.

Sahara Desert

A trip to the Sahara Desert is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. The vast sand dunes and clear desert sky create a serene and peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for relaxation and reflection. We opted for a two-day trip to the desert that included riding camels across the sand dunes, spending a night in a traditional Berber camp, and stargazing in the clear desert sky. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Fes

Fes is the oldest imperial city in Morocco and is home to some of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Islamic architecture in the world. The city's ancient Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a maze of narrow streets and alleys that are full of markets, mosques, and historic buildings. The tanneries in Fes are also a popular attraction that offers a glimpse into the traditional leather-making process.

Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a charming blue city that's tucked away in the Rif Mountains. The town's distinctive blue buildings, narrow streets, and laid-back vibe make it a popular destination for tourists. The Spanish Mosque and the Ras Elma River are also popular attractions that are worth a visit. We enjoyed exploring the town's narrow alleyways, hiking in the nearby mountains, and watching the sunrise from a viewpoint overlooking the town.

Casablanca

Casablanca is Morocco's largest city and is home to some of the country's most iconic landmarks, including the Hassan II Mosque and the Corniche. The city has a modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere and is a great place to experience Moroccan nightlife and cuisine. We visited the Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world and enjoyed a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to Morocco, it's important to consider several factors, such as transportation, accommodation, budget, and cultural customs. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

Transportation

Morocco has a well-developed transportation network that includes buses, trains, and taxis. If you're short on time, taking a private tour or hiring a driver can be a convenient option that allows you to see more in less time. We opted for a private driver who took us to all of our destinations and provided insight into the local culture and history.

Accommodation

Morocco has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Staying in a traditional riad or guesthouse is a great way to experience Moroccan hospitality and culture, while luxury hotels and resorts offer a more upscale experience. We stayed in a mix of traditional riads and modern hotels, which provided a good balance of comfort and cultural immersion.

Budget

Morocco is a relatively affordable travel destination compared to other countries in Europe and North America. However, it's important to budget for transportation, accommodation, food, and activities to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. We found that bargaining in the souks and markets helped us stay within our budget.

Cultural Customs

Morocco has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions during your trip. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property. Learning a few words of Arabic or French can also go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary for exploring Morocco in a week:

Day 1-2: Marrakech

Explore the winding alleyways of the Medina, shop in the souks, and enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea at a rooftop cafe while watching the sunset. Visit the Bahia Palace and Jardin Majorelle.

Day 3-4: Sahara Desert

Take a two-day trip to the Sahara Desert that includes riding camels across the sand dunes, spending a night in a traditional Berber camp, and stargazing in the clear desert sky.

Day 5-6: Fes and Chefchaouen

Explore the ancient Medina in Fes and visit the tanneries. In Chefchaouen, enjoy hiking in the nearby mountains and watching the sunrise from a viewpoint overlooking the town.

Day 7: Casablanca

Visit the Hassan II Mosque and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Take a stroll along the Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade.

Moroccan Cuisine and Hospitality

Moroccan cuisine is a rich and diverse blend of flavors and influences from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Here are some traditional dishes to try in Morocco:

• Tagine: A traditional Moroccan stew that's usually made with chicken, lamb, or beef and is served with vegetables and couscous. The dish gets its name from the clay pot that it's cooked in, which is also called a tagine.
• Couscous: A staple in Moroccan cuisine and usually served with a variety of vegetables, meat, and spices. The dish is made from semolina and is a great option for vegetarians.
• Mint Tea: A staple in Moroccan hospitality and usually served with sugar and mint leaves. It's a refreshing and soothing drink that's perfect for a hot day.