Introduction
Morocco is a country in North Africa that has many amazing places for you to visit. From historic cities to the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers exciting experiences. Read on as we look at the top 10 most popular tourist destinations that you should see when visiting this fascinating country.
1. Marrakesh
The first place you must visit is the vibrant city of Marrakesh. Marrakesh allures visitors with its bustling souks, lively Djemaa el-Fna Square, and historic architecture. As you explore the red sandstone buildings, you can shop at the souk markets and see snake charmers and entertainers at the iconic main square. Marrakesh will captivate your senses with its sights, sounds, and smells - from sizzling food stalls to bleating goats.
2. High Atlas Mountains
For awe-inspiring views, head to the High Atlas Mountains. You can hike among North Africa’s tallest mountain peaks, walk through quaint Berber villages, and see waterfalls and valleys. The villages dotting the mountains provide a glimpse into local customs. As you traverse the Atlas Mountains, you will enjoy vistas overlooking the desert on one side and fertile valleys on the other.
**3. Fes
Another top destination is Fes, which offers an intoxicating mix of the medieval and modern. Fes served as Morocco’s capital in the Middle Ages. As you explore the medina quarter with its 9,000 narrow alleys, you will feel transported back centuries. Donkeys still haul goods as spice sellers hawk their wares. Leather tanners also practice their trade as they have for ages even as young Moroccans crowd the city’s trendy restaurants and bars.
**4. Chefchaouen
For a calming getaway, make your way to the peaceful mountain town of Chefchaouen. Houses and buildings display various shades of blue, earning Chefchaouen the nickname “The Blue Pearl.” As you walk along the hilly cobblestone lanes under archways tangled in vines, you can shop the small stores and relax at outdoor cafes. Nearby hiking trails also lead you through green rolling peaks for fresh mountain air.
**5. Sahara Desert
No visit to Morocco is complete without seeing the majestic Sahara Desert. You can ride a camel over massive golden sand dunes, spend the night in a desert camp, gaze at the stars under Africa’s clearest skies, or watch a fiery sunrise. Whether watching local nomads or simply admiring the sweeping desertscape, time in the Sahara will create lifelong memories.
**6. Essaouira
For laidback coastal charm, head to the resort town of Essaouira. Encircled by medieval stone ramparts, this artsy city offers relaxing beaches, fresh seafood, and breezy squares lined with cafes and shops. You can also browse the many art galleries and woodworking shops, ride a camel along the beach, or take a surfing or windsurfing lesson among the Atlantic swells. The easygoing pace makes Essaouira a favorite chill-out spot.
**7. Ait Benhaddou
Journey back centuries by exploring Morocco’s ancient ruins and landmarks. The mudbrick fortified city of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transports visitors to the past. This dramatic kasbah has appeared in famous movies and TV shows. As you climb up narrow paths lined with almond and fig trees, it’s easy to imagine caravans once traveling these trading routes through the desert.
**8. Tangier
For a taste of Europe, Spain, and Morocco blended together, head north to the port town of Tangier. Its strategic location on the Strait of Gibraltar has given Tangier an intriguing mix of cultural influences. Here you can see French belle époque architecture, winding alleyways reminiscent of Granada, Spanish artists like Matisse who were drawn to the city, and late 20th-century vibes when Tangier became a counterculture hotspot.
**9. Volublis and Meknes
History buffs will love the Roman ruins of Volubilis situated near the Imperial City of Meknes. Volubilis contains amazingly preserved mosaics and monumental archways dating back to the 3rd century BC Phoenician settlement. In nearby Meknes, built by 17th-century Sultan Moulay Ismail, you can explore the enormous royal granary and stables as well as Bab Mansour, Morocco’s most ornate gate.
**10. Asilah
Lastly, the peaceful seaside town of Asilah charms visitors with its whitewashed houses and pastel-hued accents. Inside the medieval ramparts, flowers cascade down the walls while shallow stairs lead to front doors painted blue, pink, and green. The annual Asilah Arts Festival adds to this art town’s appeal. After relaxing on the beach, you can browse the many galleries and boutiques offering handicrafts and paintings.
Conclusion
From the energy of Marrakesh to the paradise of Asilah, Morocco offers incredible diversity. As you explore souks and medinas, traverse mountains, and camp under starry skies or relax by the ocean, you will discover this country’s wealth of natural and cultural treasures. With mosques and mausoleums, ancient ruins and modern galleries, Morocco is guaranteed to enchant you.