Morocco: A Kingdom of Mystique and Majesty
After 3 years living there, I can confidently confirm Morocco is a mosaic of color, culture, and contrast. From bustling medinas to tranquil deserts, the country offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for the curious traveler. Here are my field notes:
Quick Facts about Morocco:
Population: Approximately 37 million
History: Founded by the Berbers, Morocco’s layered history spans Roman rule, the Arab conquest, and French colonization, resulting in a unique blend of cultures. It gained independence in 1956 and exists as a kingdom today.
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD), with an exchange rate of roughly 10 MAD to 1 USD.
Languages: Arabic and Berber, with French commonly spoken.
Fun Fact: Morocco is home to the world’s largest car-free urban area, the ancient medina of Fes, and it’s also one of the world's top destinations for desert stargazing.
Highlights of Morocco
1. Marrakech: Morocco’s heartbeat, filled with life, color, and cultural treasures
Jemaa el-Fna
Jemaa el-Fnaa is Marrakech's main square and located in the medina. It is definitely worth exploring for the sights, sounds and smells.
Jemaa el-Fna: This iconic square pulses with performers, artisans, and aromatic food stalls. It's an unforgettable sensory experience, best enjoyed with your group.
Majorelle Garden: Dive into a burst of cobalt blues and lush greenery in this famous garden oasis created by French artist Jacques Majorelle.
Bahia Palace: Wander through halls and courtyards adorned with intricate tile work and hand-carved wooden ceilings that evoke Moroccan opulence.
2. Fes: A spiritual and historical hub
University of Al Quaraouiyine
Founded in 857 AD, this institution is the oldest university in the world!
Fes el-Bali: Lose yourself in the old medina’s labyrinthine streets, brimming with local goods, ancient mosques, and the famous Chouara Tanneries.
University of Al Quaraouiyine: Recognized as the world’s oldest operating university, this institution is a marvel of medieval Islamic architecture.
3. Chefchaouen: The fabled blue city
View of Chefchaouen, from the Spanish Mosque
The Spanish Mosque was built in the 1920s and sits atop a hill that perfectly overlooks Chefchaouen’s medina.
Blue Medina: Chefchaouen’s cool, blue-washed streets are ideal for group exploration and photo ops.
Ras Elma Waterfall: This small cascade offers a tranquil spot to relax or enjoy a picnic.
4. The Sahara Desert
Erg Chebbi Dunes
We swear this isn’t a picture of the default Mac OS Mojave background! The dunes of Erg Chebbi rise to 150 meters from the surrounding hamada (rocky desert).
Erg Chebbi Dunes: Rise with the sun or join a sunset camel ride across sweeping golden dunes before gathering around a campfire under a mesmerizing sky of stars.
5. Atlas Mountains
Kasbah Telouet
This kasbah in the High Atlas was the seat of the El Glaoui family's power, hence also called the Palace of Glaoui.
Imlil Valley: Embark on a guided trek through the Atlas Mountains, where traditional Berber villages await.
Ait Benhaddou: Explore this striking mud-brick fortress, known for its role in films from Gladiator to Game of Thrones.
Telouet: Discover this hidden jewel that offers an immersive encounter with the opulence and decline of one of the country’s most powerful families, the El Glaoui family.
6. Essaouira: A coastal city with an artsy edge
The Fort in Essaouira
The town's ramparts are a notable feature, and were used to create the red city of Astapor in the Game of Thrones series.
Historic Medina and Port: A laid-back alternative to the more intense cities, Essaouira combines ocean views with Moroccan charm.
Seafood Market: Enjoy freshly caught seafood in an informal, lively atmosphere perfect for adventurous eaters.
7. Casablanca: Morocco’s cosmopolitan core
Hassan II Mosque
This is the largest mosque in Morocco, sitting right on the Atlantic Ocean.
Hassan II Mosque: The largest mosque in Morocco, this architectural marvel sits poised over the Atlantic Ocean, welcoming visitors with grandeur.
Rick’s Café: Step into cinematic nostalgia and dine where Humphrey Bogart’s spirit might still linger.
When to Travel
Best Season: March to May and September to November for warm, pleasant weather.
Temperatures: Spring and fall feature temperatures ranging from 20–30°C (68–86°F), while summer can soar above 38°C (100°F) in the interior and desert regions.
Festivals: Don’t miss the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music (June) or Marrakech International Film Festival (December) for cultural immersion.
Where to Stay
Marrakech: Royal Mansour (6-star, owned by the King himself) for luxurious riad-style rooms and palatial amenities.
Fes: Riad Fes (5-star), a grand restored riad that marries Moroccan heritage with high-end luxury.
Essaouira: L’Heure Bleue Palais (5-star), an elegant property with a rooftop pool and sweeping ocean views.
Considerations for Group Trips
Morocco is a dream for group travelers, offering shared experiences that range from sunset desert rides to shared meals at lively souks. Group trips enhance the immersion, with local guides enriching the experience with cultural insights and insider knowledge. Morocco’s group-friendly accommodations and abundance of group activities (like market tours, guided hikes, and cultural performances) create opportunities for bonding and make logistics easy.
What to Pack
Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes
Breathable layers
A hat for sun protection
A refillable water bottle (desert days can be dry)
Wet wipes (helpful after a trek through the medina)
Portable power bank to keep devices charged in remote areas
Unexpected:
A Small Travel Hammock: Whether you’re in a serene oasis, beachside in Essaouira, or resting after a trek in the Atlas Mountains, this is the ultimate tool for setting up a quick, tranquil rest spot anywhere.
Collapsible Tote Bag for Souk Finds: Lightweight and expandable, a tote is indispensable for last-minute market finds or carrying extra water bottles for desert excursions.
Charcoal Tablets: Not often considered, but Moroccan cuisine is a burst of spices and flavors—perfect for some, but challenging for others. Charcoal tablets help with digestion after those particularly adventurous meals.
A Journal and Sketchpad: With Morocco’s sensory richness and dramatic landscapes, having a way to capture quick notes, sketches, or memories on the go enhances the experience, especially if you’re reflecting back with your group.
Bright Scarves or Shawls: Not only are scarves practical for sun protection, but vibrant textiles make you blend into the scene, especially when exploring colorful souks or covering up to enter mosques. Plus, they add an effortless pop of color to photos!
What to bring home:
A Compact Hammam Kit: Experience Moroccan wellness on the go. Purchase a small exfoliating mitt, a bar of black soap, and a vial of argan oil for a mini hammam experience, wherever you go.
Sachet of Mint Tea Leaves: Morocco’s famous mint tea is a hospitality staple. Having your own allows you to infuse a bit of Morocco into quiet moments or share a taste of it with friends.
Can’t-Miss Activities and Places
Camel Rides and Desert Camping in the Sahara.
Cooking Class in Marrakech, where you’ll learn the secrets of Moroccan tagine and mint tea.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Marrakech at dawn for sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains.
Shopping for Artisan Goods in Fes, from handwoven textiles to brass lamps, a perfect way to bring Moroccan craftsmanship home.
Off-the-Beaten Path Ideas
Ouzoud Falls
Day Trip to Ouzoud Falls: A stunning waterfall that’s perfect for a scenic hike and a refreshing swim.
Rif Mountains Hike: Near Chefchaouen, these mountains are less traveled but offer unforgettable views and encounters with the Berber people.
Sidi Ifni: A laid-back coastal town known for its unique Spanish architecture and vibrant fish markets.
Azrou’s Cedar Forest: For a cool escape, explore Morocco’s Atlas cedars where wild monkeys roam—perfect for nature enthusiasts in your group.
Morocco is an enchanting land with endless opportunities for discovery. Whether you’re wandering through the chaos of Marrakech, exploring hidden mountain villages, or finding tranquility under a blanket of desert stars, this country will capture your heart and leave you yearning for more.
Email me at katherine@affinitytravel.co if you want to learn more about my time in Morocco or chat about planning your own trip!
