The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel in Morocco
Where to start with Morocco? It’s a place I love so much. I love the food. I love the people. I love the architecture and design. I love the craftsmanship. I love the traditions. When I can’t sleep at night I sneak onto the internet and look for riads in Marrakech to buy. It’s the place of dreams even when I’m awake.
Morocco’s rich history and cultural legacy can be enjoyed by just about anyone. Whether you’re ready for glamping in the desert, treks through the mountains, shopping up a storm in the souqs or just relaxing in the sun, Morocco will call you back again and again.
When you’re ready to beginning planning your travels to Morocco, fill out our Design My Trip form and we’ll work together to design a customized itinerary just for you.
If you’re interested to learn more about designing your travels to Morocco with a professional travel advisor, read 5 hidden perks of working with a travel advisor and learn more about working with our team HERE.
Who should travel to Morocco?
What’s your typical travel style? Do you toss on a backpack in search of undiscovered adventures or are you the luxury high-end traveler who requires five-star experiences? No matter your budget or style, there’s something for you Morocco.
Moroccans are multilingual. English is spoken widely in tourist areas and if you’d like to practice another language, many shopkeepers can speak four or five different languages! While working on French with a ceramics vendor and you slip into Spanish, he’ll follow without missing a beat! If you are looking for a destination full of history, culture, vibrant cities, natural wonders, camel treks and even surfing – Morocco is ready for you.
Honeymoon in Morocco
Morocco is a fantastic location to celebrate your honeymoon as there are so many options to consider. Whether this will be your first time traveling in this area of the world or if you know the region well, Morocco is diverse, adventurous, and luxurious.
If you’re envisioning a luxurious honeymoon filled relaxing spa treatments, world-class restaurants and a handcrafted shopping paradise, we’ll send you straight to Marrakech and then for a two-night stay in a luxury camp where you’ll be pampered and fed and get the chance to live like royalty.
If you like history and adventure, we recommend starting north, seeing Casablanca before exploring the famous blue city of Chefchaouen, the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and onto Fes. From there, visit the stunning Sahara Desert in an ultra-luxurious desert camp where you’ll ride camels through apricot sand dunes and dine under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!
Family Travel in Morocco: Exploring Morocco with kids
When planning a family holiday, Morocco should be near the top of your list. My own kids loved their visit there and ask to return frequently. We played on sand dunes, visited Berber markets, learned about handcrafted products and saw them created right in front of us! We also did one of our favorite family pastimes, we tried ALL the foods. A cooking class is such a fun way to bring a taste of Morocco back home. These are only a few of the adventures that will keep your family talking about Morocco for years to come.
Read more: 5 ways a travel advisor can up level your next trip
Adventure Travel in Morocco
Contrary to what you might have heard, Morocco isn’t just sand. There are all kinds of adventures for your active holiday. Morocco is on the Atlantic Ocean is well known for surfing, sailing and kiteboarding. There’s even a cable park in Marrakech specifically designed for wakeboarding. If you like spending time above sea level, you might enjoy hikes or bike rides through the high Atlas Mountains or perhaps horseback riding through national parks. But if the desert is what’s bringing you to Morocco, you’re in luck. How about quad biking over sand dunes, a camel trek through the Sahara or a yoga retreat in the rock desert just outside Marrakech?
Small group adventures will provide the most authentic experience as they will take you much further off the typical path than you would find traveling solo and their knowledge and experience in the local villages will greatly enhance your experience.
When you’re ready to beginning planning your travels to Morocco, fill out our Design My Trip form and we’ll work together to design a customized itinerary just for you.
Top tips from my travels in Morocco
Instead of the generic American-style hotel, stay in a local riad! Experience the history and charm of these absolutely gorgeous and unique traditional homes built around a courtyard.
After enjoy a stay in a riad, spend a few nights in the desert at a luxury camp. With comfortable beds, elegant décor and even your own private bathroom, you’ll wish you’d be able to stay a week longer. My experiences at these camps have been unforgettable!
A local guide can make all the difference getting to know each city. Want a unique tour of the souks or the neighborhood’s favorite restaurant, a local guide can take you to all the places you would miss on your own.
Before you start shopping, learn to bargain. This is an important feature of Moroccan culture and takes a lifetime to master. Some key points are: don’t look too interested (even if you cannot live without something), be polite, never take the first offer, and be prepared to walk away if you can’t come to an acceptable deal.
Learn about the history and culture of the city you’re visiting (a private guide is perfect for this!). Why is Chefchaouen blue? Why are courtyards so important in domestic architecture? What in the world is a hammam?
Speaking of hammams, go! I love them. From ultra-high-end experiences to a small room with the locals, I’ve tried them all. Each type has its charms and price points. No matter where you go, you’ll be feeling cleaner that you’d ever imagined you could be!
When is the best time to visit Morocco?
Spring and fall are both excellent times to visit Morocco. The weather is warm but still pleasant. In the winter, you’ll find snow in the mountains and you’ll have cold nights in the main cities. The low tourist season is May-September, mostly because it’s very hot and dry. The Islamic festival of Ramadan is often during this time and may affect your travels in the country.
How many days should I spend in Morocco?
I recommend visiting Morocco for a minimum of 7 days which will offer time to visit two areas at the most. To visit all major areas of Morocco (Marrakech, Essaouira, Merzouga, Fez, Casablanca), I recommend 2-3 weeks. There’s so much to see, so you have unlimited time, I have an itinerary for that too. There are wonderful adventures around every corner!
What other countries should I visit while I’m in this region?
The two European countries I recommend visiting in conjunction with Morocco are Spain and Portugal. Many airlines have a layover in these countries, so consider making your layover into longer visit. Morocco is so large and so diverse that a full month on the ground wouldn’t get boring. If wanting to connect with a nearby destination, I recommend only if you’re traveling for a minimum of 2 weeks to give you enough time in both destinations.
Is it safe to travel in Morocco?
The safety of traveling around the world is ever-changing and something that should always be taken seriously. The most up-to-date resource to reference is travel.state.gov. In addition to referencing these advisories, we also recommend enrolling yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program prior to your departure.
It's important to always remain aware of your surroundings, to travel with a companion when possible, and to not carry valuables on your person. This advice rings true no matter where you travel!
What are the best places to visit in Morocco?
Marrakech
Marrakech is my favorite place in Morocco. If you want to experience much of what Morocco has to offer in one place, this is the one for you. Explore the artisanal masterpieces in the city’s old palaces. You can also experience the souqs where you can explore all kinds of goods from around the region. Marrakech is also perfectly situated between the ocean and some of Morocco’s incredible sand dune seas.
Not to miss experiences in Marrakech:
Djemaa El-Fna is the non-stop main square and a UNESCO Masterpiece of World Heritage
Bahia Palace has incredible floor-to ceiling decoration
Jardin Majorelle is the former home of Yves Saint Laurent and an Instagrammer’s paradise
Recommended hotel in Marrakech: La Sultana
Recommended Stay: 2-4 nights
Image Credit: Amanda Mouttaki.
Essaouira
This town on the Atlantic coast is known as the “Windy City of Africa” but don’t let that dissuade you. Take time to wander through the picturesque fishing harbor, the palm-lined avenues and visit the boutiques and galleries.
Not to miss experiences in Essaouira:
The medina is another UNESCO site and example of French architecture in Morocco
The town still relies on fishing and has an honest gritty-yet-charming feel
Walk on top of the old city walls for an unforgettable view
Recommended Stay: 2-3 nights
Image Credit: Amanda Mouttaki.
Merzouga
Located in Morocco’s southeast, Merzouga is an excellent jumping off point for exploring the Sahara Desert. The long stretches of sand dunes that surround it are particularly worth seeing during the amazing display of colors at sunrise and sunset.
Not to miss experiences in Merzouga:
Take a short ride or even a multi-day camel trip into the desert
The great sand sea of Erg Chebbi offers beautiful views as well as adventure sports
Recommended Stay: 1-3 nights
Image Credit: Amanda Mouttaki.
Fez
Once a city full of great philosophers and scientists, Fez was an important stop on the trading routes of Asia and Africa. While power has shifted away from Fez, the stylish influences remain and has kept Fez somewhat like an open-air museum. Decorative patterns and intricate craftsmanship can be found throughout the city. Fez has two ancient medinas, the largest car-free urban area in the world and the world’s oldest and continually operating university!
Not to miss experiences in Fez:
Get lost in the souqs and learn all about how traditional crafts are made
See for yourself the 9th century tile work at the Karaouine mosque library
The oldest tannery in the world is here and still operates like it did in medieval times (spoiler alert – it’s smelly)
BONUS – Fez is a three-hour drive from the famous blue city of Chefchaouen
Recommended hotel in Fez: Palais Amani
Recommended Stay: 2-3 nights
Photo credit: Sumit Chinchane of Unsplash.
Casablanca
Casablanca is much more than the name of a famous movie. Once an old pirate lair, it’s the now the largest city in the country as well as Morocco’s commercial capital. With French colonial influences and traditional Arab culture mixed, there are many diverse things to do, see and eat.
Not to miss experiences in Casablanca:
The Hassan II Mosque accommodates 25,000 worshippers, has a glass floor that overlooks ocean and has a retractable roof!
Learn about Jewish history in Morocco at the only Jewish Museum in the Arab world
Shop for luxury goods at the modern Morocco Mall, complete with an indoor ice skating rink and aquarium with a shark tank
Recommended Stay: 2-3 nights
What to eat and drink in Morocco
Mint tea – This drink is everywhere. Known as Berber whisky, it’s an extra sweet tea with a few sprigs of mint. Not a fan of the black gunpowder tea it’s made with? Request some without the tea and just with the sweetened water and mint sprigs instead. Delicious!
Tagine & Couscous – I had this every day on my last trip and I was never sorry. Tagine is made in a cone-shaped clay pot and filled with meat and vegetables. I usually eat it with the tiny steamed balls of wheat called couscous.
Baghrir – A traditional Moroccan breakfast is heavy on the carbs and super delicious. One of my favorite parts is baghrir, spongy pancakes thousands of tiny holes. Top these with jam, honey or honey and you’re ready for a day of adventure.
Mechoui – When in Marrakech, you simply must try mechoui – the local specialty. The whole lamb is spiced and roasted for hours in deep pits. Served with salt and cumin, this tender lamb dish will quickly become a favorite.
14 day luxury itinerary in Morocco
Sand, Sea, & Shopping in Morocco
Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca
Day 2: Visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque. Visit the French Colonial medina of Casablanca, Habous and test out the pastry shops while taking a food tour.
Day 3: Take a morning walk on the cornice at Ain Diab followed by a visit to the Museum of Moroccan Judiasm. Spend your evening getting extra clean at a 5-star modern hammam.
Day 4: Journey from Casablanca to the famous blue city of Chefchouen. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring the amazing color and quiet alleys.
Day 5: Continue to Fez and dive right into the world-famous souks. After that, visit one of Fez’s numerous tanneries and see for yourself how your new leather goods were got their rich color. Experience a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy your delicious creations.
Day 6: Begin your day by visiting the Karaouine Mosque and University. For a unique view of the city, you’ll enjoy exploring the ruined Merinid Tombs. In the late afternoon, join the locals who watch the lights of the city come on and listen to the call to prayer.
Day 7: Journey to the gateway to the Sahara, Merzouga to begin your camel trekking adventure.
Day 8: Journey by camel into the sand dunes of Erg-Chebbi. Experience glamping at its finest as you overnight in a luxury text.
Day 9: Those to get up early to see the sunrise will be rewarded with spectacular color and light. After relaxing in the desert landscape, return to Merzouga
Day 10: Travel through the Todra Gorge to Ait Ben Haddou to see this 11th century fortified village and see why Hollywood keeps coming back here over and over. Check into your luxurious riad in Marrakech.
Day 11: Explore the sights and tastes of Marrakech’s famous Djemaa El-Fna and its surrounding markets. See the nearby Koutoubia Mosque and learn about the importance religion still plays in this city.
Day 12: Take a day trip to the Atlantic Ocean and visit Essaouira’s French-style harbor.
Day 13: Take it easy as you visit some of the most beautiful sights in the city, the traditional Bahia Palace and the electric blue Jardin Majorelle. Dine at one of Marrakech’s excellent rooftop restaurants. Consider visiting a spa to complete your relaxing day.
Day 14: Depart Marrakech for your return flight home.
