Four years on from Covid and what now seems like a distant memory, the world slowly seems to be finally opening up. From the recent Paris Olympic games to discovering new travel hidden gems, to conversations about travel plans and feeling nostalgic for trips that changed our lives. There is one destination that I always look back on with contentment; Morocco.

Morocco is a place that’s so different from other countries that you can’t help but be captivated by its uniqueness. Whether it’s the snake charmers, the Sahara desert or the architecture that you are intrigued by, Morocco is one place not to be overlooked.

There are many reasons as to why I think that Morocco should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Here are 7 reasons:

Marrakech

Walking through the souks and experiencing all the different sights and smells. Whether you’re looking for authentic gifts like Argan oils or rugs to take home, or merely curious to browse the local spices that showcase all the colours of the rainbow. Perhaps you want to try your luck at navigating the Djemaa El Fna, where snake charmers and street performers are a common sight. Or maybe you want to explore the never ending beauty of Bahia Palace, where every room is just as pretty as the last. You will be amazed at what the city has to offer.

Chefchaouen

A quick stop over to the peaceful mountainside town Chefchaouen. A place where buildings are painted like every shade of blue that you could ever think of; where the sea and land meet as one. A quieter city where you can take your time to explore the Plaza Uta El-Hammam or get lost as you aimlessly wander the blue streets and alleys. Every corner is a photographer’s dream. You can even do some shopping in the local stores or eat local dishes like couscous or tagine. However you decide to spend your time, it’s a great day trip option to add to your itinerary.

Sahara desert
A truly life changing place where I felt the most inner peace. Here you can set up camp in the village of Merzouga, where you can get an insight into what life is like in the Sahara desert. Time runs at a different pace here.

Set off to explore the Sahara desert via Arabian camels known as the dromedary. Here you’ll be able to watch the sunset over the sand dunes. Your breath will easily be taken away by the sights because it’s nothing like anything you’ve ever seen before. Afterwards, spend the evening by a campfire where you can listen to the sounds of Moroccan drums playing while you stargaze the night away. It’s so far away from any major city that as a result you will hear nothing but utter silence. The silence of the desert will allow you to reflect and relax with no distractions. The perfect place for individuals who yearn for solitude. 

Start the next morning off slowly with a Moroccan coffee as you watch the sunrise over your campsite. And spend the rest of your afternoon sand boarding over the sand dunes.

Take every moment in because it’s a place that’s truly a once in a lifetime experience.

Opportunities for Cultural Immersion
There are many ways to enrich your travel experiences and cultural immersion is one of my favourite ways to do that. 

For example learning more about Moroccan culture by taking the opportunity to see the isolated Berber villages in the flesh. As you’re welcomed into their homes you’ll learn about their nomadic lifestyle over cups of mint tea. 

You can even see how Argan oil is made and question why local goats climb up Argan trees. Or explore the infamous leather tanneries in Fes and reflect on your day’s activities over a traditional Moroccan dinner, with belly dancers and Moroccan drums playing in the background.

You’ll be spoilt for choice as there is an abundance of activities that suit everyone’s needs.

Architecture 

Morocco’s location in North Africa, its close proximity to Europe, and vast history is evident in the architecture found all over the land. Combining the Berbers traditional kasbahs, the Moorish architecture, with the Islamic and French influences; you can see how each of these elements has contributed to its identity that you see today. 

Whether you’re looking closely at the geometric details of mosaic tiles, to buildings as grand as the Mosque II Hassan in Casablanca. The aesthetics and bright colours will easily grab your attention. So much so, that you’ll want to take pictures of everything. It’s hard to not be captivated by the mystery and beauty of this unique style of architecture.

Bacha Coffee
This drink was something that I discovered on a recent trip to Singapore and was blown away by the quality of the coffee and the extravagance that comes with it. It’s a drink that I will always actively seek out when travelling. The original location is based in Marrakech (with multiple locations globally) and they’re famous for their pastries and coffee beans that are sourced from all over the world. It’s a luxury that is worth your money if you’re a coffee connoisseur. 

Integration of different values & beliefs
Lastly, one of the most important things that I observed and admired the most from this trip is that it’s a country where differences aren’t a hindrance. A place where the people’s different religious views are integrated in harmony. A goal that the world so desperately longs for.

things to consider when travelling to morocco

Best time to travel – Weather

With Morocco being situated in North Africa and factoring in the landscape of the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains, the weather throughout the year varies. Depending on your preferences, tourists can travel to the country during all months throughout the whole year. 

If you are travelling during Winter (November to March), you’ll see temperatures range from 7°C and 20°C. Travel during summer (June to August) is considered the low season, where temperatures range from 18°C to 35°C. 

The best time to visit Morocco is considered to be either between Spring (March to May) where temperatures range from 13°C to 27°C, or Autumn (September to October) where temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. I travelled to Morocco in October and my experience of the weather was warmer days and cooler nights. There were moments on my travels with being caught in the rain, but this didn’t delay or cancel any plans. I had no issues with feeling uncomfortable with the weather, except for cooler days when it rained. 

Travel during Spring and Autumn may be good options for you to consider if you prefer to experience milder temperatures.

Best time to travel – Ramadan

Ramadan in Morocco is also a factor to consider when deciding on when you want to go. This is a sacred month for Muslims and can be a great opportunity to learn about how this is part of Moroccan culture. During this time, bear in mind of things like when food stores are open (as operating hours may be affected) or not drinking and smoking in public to show respect. The dates of Ramadan vary every year, so double check this before you decide on your travel dates. 

How to dress

The clothes you pack will ultimately be dependent on the time of the year you travel. If you are considering travelling during Autumn (September to October), packing clothes with natural fibres are king here. Linens, longer dresses, long scarf to cover your shoulders, comfortable walking shoes, warmer clothes for the rainy days and cooler nights, and a rain jacket should be enough. 

And always dress modestly. The country is majority Muslim so it’s always a good rule of thumb to be respectful of the culture.

Guided tours

As a female who proactively seeks out any opportunity to travel, I always proceed with caution when travelling solo. Guided tours are a great option if you don’t feel completely comfortable navigating a foreign country on your own. I went with Travel Talk on this trip and did the 10 day Exotic Morocco tour. I couldn’t recommend this enough.
 
Other guided tour options to consider:
1. Delve Deep: Morocco – Topdeck
2. Moroccan Desert Adventure – G Adventures
3. Essential Morocco – Intrepid
4. Adventure Morocco – Travel Talk Tour
5. Exotic Morocco – Travel Talk Tour

Conclusion

Travelling gives us the opportunity to reflect and look back on key moments in our lives, whether positive, negative or neutral. Looking back on Morocco, I’m only reminded of happy memories. It’s a place that has opened up my mind and allowed me the opportunity for a new way of thinking, which I think is one of the most beautiful things that one gains from travelling.

Yours sincerely,
Paola
The Seasoned Traveller

Disclaimer: this is not a sponsored post