best travel book on morocco

11 of the Best Books About Morocco You Have to Read

Gah. If I could think of any place where I would go at the snap of a finger, then it would be Morocco. Thankfully, even when I can’t travel there, I can still pick up books about Morocco that will transport me to the deserts of the Sahara or to the medina of Fes. There are so many amazing things to do in Morocco, and the literature on it is some of the most evocative travel writing I have ever read.

Here are some of my recommendations for reads on Morocco–they’re perfect for when you want to slip away to this fascinating country or if you are using an essay writing service to write about this country.

Amazing books about Morocco you have to read

This list has some amazing books about Morocco you need to add to your reading list!

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The Voices of Marrakech by Elias Canetti

One of the most intriguing accounts of Morocco by a tourist, the Nobel Prize winner takes us to the country’s red city and delves into some more non-touristy subjects as well. I found the observations about the Jewish populations in Morocco the most intriguing, since Canetti was Jewish and provides some interesting insight into why they fled to this Islamic land.

Buy the paperback edition

A Street in Marrakech by Elizabeth Warnock Fernea

Moving with her family to Marrakech in the 70s, Fernea accounts her time adjusting to a new culture and the trust she had to build with her neighbors. This personal history looks at the differences between her American culture and that of the Moroccan people as a love letter to the city that became her home.

Buy the Kindle edition

In Morocco by Edith Wharton

Edith Wharton contributes her quick observations and her stunning analogies to this book on her trip through Morocco on a sponsored trip by the French government. While some of the comments might seem a bit dated (it was published in 1917, after all), Wharton transports us to the main cities of Morocco and reminds us of why they capture so many imaginations.

Get the Kindle edition

The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca by Tahir Shah

English writer Tahir Shah shares his experiences moving to Morocco and taking up a house in the capital city of Casablanca. After traveling there in his youth, he picks up his family and moves into the former house of the caliph. Combining mysticism and nonfiction, this book is a delightful tale of how Morocco offers room for mystery in the imagination.

A House in Fez: Building a Life in the Ancient Heart of Morocco by Suzanna Clarke

Written in the style of “Under the Tuscan Sun,” Clarke documents her time in Morocco as she purchases a house in the city of Fes. Using only traditional materials, she rebuilds her new house to reflect its former splendor while enveloping herself in Moroccan culture. One of my favorite books about Morocco!

Dreams of Trespass: Tales of a Harem Girlhood by Fatima Mernissa

Documenting her time in a Moroccan harem before it was outlawed, Mernissa shares a childhood unlike any other and how she transformed into a modern young woman. Beautifully-written and completely unique, this offers a peek into what an old Morocco was like and how it transitioned to the future. I find this one of my favorite books about Morocco.

Making Morocco: Colonial Intervention and the Politics of Identity by Jonathan Wyrtzen

As well as having a rich Berber, Arab, and nomadic history, Morocco was also the location of a number of colonial takeovers and a mix of cultures. While this book has a ton of information and borders on the more academic, it does dive into the many fusions and fissions that have occurred in Moroccoan history.

Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb

This beautiful novel follows Lily, an orphan who is raised at a Sufi shrine after her parents are murdered. Traveling around Morocco and trying to discover her identity as a foreigner in a land that she has always called home, she is forced to confront the differences between the culture she inherited and the culture she grew up in.

Travels by Paul Bowles

While the famous author covers a number of places in this collection of his writings, his most evocative are his ones about Morocco and Tangier, where he lived for 52 years. Bowles is a master of the travel genre, and he provides a stunning portrait of the people and customs of the home he loves.

Secret Son by Laila Lalami

Raised in the slums of Casablanca, Youssef El Mekki is a dreamer in this novel. Navigating a country going through intense change, Youssef struggles to find his identity. By highlighting a number of characters, we get a glimpse into what it might be like to live in a country that is working to abandon former laws while not losing sight of its past.

Morocco That Was by Walter Harris

Providing insight as a correspondent during the French occupation of Morocco, Harris isn’t afraid to tell it like it is while also providing magnificent storytelling and information about Moroccan culture. It also offers information about the life of a sultan’s court that is difficult to find in any other account on the country.

Do you have any favorite books about Morocco you want to share?

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The Best Morocco Travel Books in 2023

Introduction.

Morocco is one of the most mesmerizing countries in the world, and it’s a perfect destination for travelers looking for adventure and culture. As someone who lives here, I love learning about Morocco and its fascinating history. There are several Morocco travel books that I’d highly suggest to anyone planning to move (or visit) the Maghreb.

Keep in mind, with the ubiquity of the internet, travel books are becoming somewhat passe. Everything you need to know about the geography of Morocco is right on your phone’s map app, so old-fashioned guidebooks seem somewhat irrelevant in the modern age. But, if you’re like me and love a paperback, these may be right up your alley. And there is plenty written in books that cannot be found online (in my humble opinion).

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, check out these awesome Morocco travel books.

(Please note, some of these are affiliate links, and if you buy a book, I may get a small commission at no cost to you.)

Moon Morocco (Travel Guide)

The Moon Morocco (Travel Guide) by Lucas Peters is a great resource for anyone who wants to travel to Morocco. It’s written by an experienced travel writer who has traveled throughout (and lived in) the country, so you can trust that he knows what he’s talking about. He also has a lot of helpful tips and tricks for navigating Morocco

The cool thing is, I actually know the author! Lucas is an exceptionally helpful expat who I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with in various groups, so I highly recommend his book and experience in this beautiful country.

See Lucas’ website here
Buy the Moon Morocco guide
See the Moon Morocco guide on Goodreads

The Caliph’s House by Tahir Shah

Okay, this isn’t a guidebook per se, but it is one of my favorite Morocco travel books because it’s such an accurate insight into Moroccan culture and communication, particularly with outsiders.

“The Caliph’s House” is a memoir by Tahir Shah, published in 2005, about his experiences renovating a dilapidated mansion in Casablanca, Morocco. The book is a personal account of Shah’s adventures as he and his family move from London to Morocco and undertake the massive project of restoring the mansion known as Dar Khalifa.

Throughout the book, Shah writes about the challenges and joys of living in a foreign country and tackling a major renovation project. He also delves into the history and culture of Morocco, exploring the country’s diverse and rich traditions.

If you’re interested in memoirs, travel writing, or Moroccan culture, “The Caliph’s House” might be a worthwhile read. I highly recommend it, and it is one of my favorite Morocco travel books.

Buy the book here
See it on Goodreads
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See my full review here

Humor and Moroccan Culture

This is another one of those recommendations that seems a little odd because it’s not a bona fide travel guide, but it is a really interesting look at Moroccan culture through the perspective of Moroccan humor and language. Morocco is such a unique study in contrasts: ancient and modernizing, East and West, rural and urban, and this book does a great job of capturing that dichotomy through humor.

Humor and Moroccan Culture is probably the shortest of the Morocco travel books on this list, but it packs a punch. Plus, it’s actually funny! The book is about a foreigner in Morocco attempting to learn the culture through the various common jokes told in Morocco. Humor is often a remarkable insight into a community.

Again, it’s quite short but really good!

Buy the book here!

Check it out on Goodreads

The Rough Guide To Morocco

The Rough Guide to Morocco is a more traditional Morocco travel book than the other ones on this list. It is a comprehensive travel guide to this beautiful North African country. This Morocco travel book covers a wide range of topics, including history, culture, geography, and practical information for travelers.

The guide begins with an overview of Morocco’s history, including its ancient origins and its more recent colonial past. It then delves into the country’s diverse culture, including its rich traditions, art, music, and cuisine. This incredibly useful Morocco travel book also provides detailed information on Morocco’s geography, including its varied landscapes, climate, and top attractions, including its bustling cities, such as Marrakech and Fez, and its beautiful beaches and desert landscapes.

In addition to providing valuable information on how to get around, where to stay, and what to see and do, the guide also includes helpful tips on safety and etiquette in Morocco. The Rough Guide to Morocco is one of our favorite Morocco travel books for detailed and reliable information.

Buy it here!

Lonely Planet Morocco (13th Edition)

I have the paperback version of the Lonely Planet Morocco guidebook and have been extremely impressed with the level of detail and helpfulness of the information provided. The book is well-organized and easy to navigate, with clear maps and detailed descriptions of all the top sights and attractions in Morocco. Of course, we never use the maps because we have Waze, but I imagine it would be useful if our phones died or something.

One of the things I appreciate most about this guidebook is the cultural information provided throughout. It’s obvious that the authors have a deep understanding and appreciation of Moroccan culture, and they do an excellent job of explaining customs, traditions, and cultural norms to the reader. Plus, the guide is regularly updated (the 13th version is from 2021) so you know that they aren’t going based off information that is no longer accurate. However, many things in Morocco are “off-the-grid” still, so advice should always be taken with a grain of salt as things may change by the time you get here.

The section on practical information, such as transportation and accommodation options, is also incredibly helpful. The authors provide recommendations for a range of budgets and preferences, and there are detailed descriptions of each option to help you make an informed decision. I recommend the Lonely Planet Morocco 13 guidebook to anyone planning a trip to this amazing country.

There are a ton of great travel books about Morocco, not to mention tons of online resources as well.

If you’d like to learn more about Moroccan Arabic, see our guide .

If you’d like to learn how to stay safe as a solo female traveler, we have a guide for that , too!

Lastly, if you have a Morocco travel book you’d like us to read and review, send us an email and we’d be delighted to check it out and possibly add it to the list!

What’s the best time to visit Morocco?

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jeanette McCurdy is super intense – Book review (2023)

Veronika Decides to Die by Paulo Coelho – A critical review

Morocco Travel Guidebooks - eBooks

Our website provides information, travel tips and basic Moroccan Arabic lessons, if you are planing to visit Morocco we have selected for you a collection of the best Travel Books for Morocco , All kind of information about Morocco such as the history of the imperial cities, the best places to visit, how using the train or buses and a guide of the best restaurants in Morocco, all this in your pocket and accessible without an internet connection .

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Recommended reviews for morocco travel guidebooks, gardens of marrakesh is a great book.

I have this one, it is a really amazing book with great photographs of Moroccan and Islamic gardens.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo

Some books on aspects of the history and literature of Morocco, recommended in interviews on a range of subjects. Many books about Morocco aren't translated into English so some of the books on history and current affairs can appear a little dated. However, Moroccan-French novelist Leïla Slimani —who won France's prestigious Prix Goncourt prize in 2016—has had several of her books translated, so is one place to start if you're looking for contemporary novels that also give a sense of Morocco's recent past.

Walking with Nomads

By alice morrison.

☆ Shortlisted for the 2023 Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards Travel Book of the Year

The Scottish explorer and TV presenter Alice Morrison travels across Morocco , from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains, in the company of three Amazigh (once known as Berber) men and their camels. During her journeys, she encounters a lost city and dinosaur footprints, and does her best to avoid landmines, quicksand and poisonous snakes. She also encounters nomadic peoples travelling through this arid environment, who tell her about the challenges of life on the move, and the changes wrought by a warming climate.

Read expert recommendations

The Black Crescent

By jane johnson.

The Black Crescent by British novelist Jane Johnson is a lovely work of historical fiction that introduces you to the world of 1950s Morocco, at the time of the country's struggle for independence from France. The main character, Hamou Badi, is from a mountain village but ends up becoming a policeman and working in Casablanca. The author, Jane Johnson, has set a number of her novels in Morocco where she met her husband, Abdel Bakrim, and now lives for half the year (see below for the story of how that happened!). As well as being a good story, the book is a nice way of learning about Morocco's recent history alongside her.

This Blinding Absence of Light

By tahar ben jelloun.

🏆 Winner of the 2004 International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award

This Blinding Absence of Light by Moroccan novelist Tahar Ben Jelloun is based on a true story. It's about a prisoner who ends up in Tazmamart, a secret prison built in the Atlas Mountains after a failed coup against the then king, Hassan II, in 1972. Conditions were terrible at the prison and the men who ended up there spent nearly 20 years at Tazmamart while its existence was constantly denied.

The Country of Others

By leïla slimani.

The Country of Others is the first book in Moroccan-French author Leïla Slimani's trilogy of novels based partly on her own family's story, now translated into English. It opens in 1945 as a French woman living in Alsace falls in love with a Moroccan serving in the French army. The couple move to Morocco, where they make their lives on a farm. The story takes us through Morocco's independence struggle from France to 1956, when the French protectorate of Morocco came to an end.

Watch Us Dance

Watch Us Dance is the second novel in Moroccan-French novelist Leïla Slimani's multigenerational family trilogy. The novel opens in 1968 and follows the daughter, Aïcha, as she heads home to Morocco after studying in France. The first book in the trilogy is The Country of Others .

The Caliph’s House

By tahir shah.

“ The Caliph’s House is wonderful because its author, Tahir Shah, is just this guy you want to be friends with, to hang out with and follow around. The book’s about this house he bought in Morocco. He’d decided to move with his family from England, on a whim almost, in an effort to lead a more interesting life, and they buy this massive palace of a house. But it’s in ruins and the story’s just his efforts to get it renovated, painted and livable: a massive undertaking. And while doing this he gets to find out how businesses are run in Morocco, and the very different ways in which work gets done.” Read more...

The best books on Foreign Memoirs

Jennifer Steil , Foreign Correspondent

Taste of Morocco

By robert carrier.

“The great thing about Moroccan food is that you can go off and do your own thing once you’ve learned a bit about it. You can make up your own versions because the spices and colours are so enchanting….With Moroccan food, I always go back to Robert Carrier. There’s a very beautiful illustrated edition of the book. You turn over a couple of pages and you can’t wait to start cooking. You feel you’re going to be able to conjure up all this magic and colour from it.” Read more...

The best books on Mediterranean Cooking

Diane Seed , Cooks & Food Writer

Islam and Democracy

By fatima mernissi.

“Fatima Mernissi is a Moroccan feminist and produced one of the first books on feminism within an Arab Middle East and in a Muslim context. She also wrote a pioneering book-length text of Islamic feminism. In Islam and Democracy Mernissi is taking up Islamic arguments for claiming full citizenship, democracy, equality and justice. Mernissi is bringing together secular and religious arguments, and among the things she gives importance to is the need to reform Muslim personal status law as part of achieving democracy.” Read more...

The best books on Islam and Feminism

Margot Badran , Historian

The Sheltering Sky

By paul bowles.

“It centres on an American couple travelling to Morocco and opens with the crazy markets and tearooms, the hubble-bubble smoking in the towns, which are a vivid, almost frightening glimpse of another world. The travellers are enthusiastic but their ignorance makes them vulnerable; they have no way of being usefully watchful in this alien terrain. As they journey south the heat and disorientation intensifies and the towns grow further and further apart, with wilderness sucking them into a chain of events they cannot control. As everything disintegrates around them we see the truth behind the veneer of civility. In the emptiness they are faced with themselves and, as the marriage dissolves, the danger of travel becomes a nightmare – beyond the harsh terrain, disease and physical toll of desert travel, tragedy and madness wait. In a way, all desert books are about travelling within yourself, and not being entirely in control. That surrender to the kindness of strangers is common to everything I’ve ever read about the desert, too. You surrender everything because the desert will take it from you anyway. And you have to learn a new kind of watchfulness.” Read more...

The best books on Desert Nations

Jo Tatchell , Journalist

The Travels of Ibn Battutah

By ibn battutah (edited by tim mackintosh-smith).

“I couldn’t not include him. His editor Ibn Juzayy says towards the end of the book that Ibn Battutah is “the traveller of the Arabs and if anyone says he is a traveller of this ummah (Islamic community), he would not be wrong”. That actually stands today. In a sense he hasn’t been bettered since that time (the 14th century). The complete diversity of the Muslim world was put on the axis of a book by Ibn Battutah. Nobody afterwards could really do better. He is the traveller of the Islamic world.” Read more...

Books about Travelling in the Muslim World

Tim Mackintosh-Smith , Travel Writer

Travels with a Tangerine

By tim mackintosh-smith.

“Mackintosh-Smith follows Ibn Battutah’s journey, retracing his steps from Morocco to Egypt, Syria to Oman, and Anatolia to Constantinople. He sails in a dhow across the Arabian Sea and travels to Delhi, then on to the Maldives and the fabled Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka. He describes his own experiences beautifully but also provides us with extracts from Ibn Battutah. The result: you see India from the 14th-century perspective of Ibn Battutah’s adventures overlaid with an account of an emerging 21st-century superpower. Brilliant juxtaposition.” Read more...

The best books on Travel in the Muslim World

Ziauddin Sardar , Theologians & Historians of Religion

Timbuktu and the Songhay Empire: Al-Sa'di's Ta'rikh Al-Sudan down to 1613 and Other Contemporary Documents

By john hunwick.

There is political history embedded in Tarikh al-Sudan . But then it also moves beyond the moment of the Moroccan conquest of Songhai in 1591, and it moves into the post-1591 period. It moves into a discussion of the early Moroccan occupation of Timbuktu and this period of the Arma, which is a reference to the fact that the Moroccans will come into Timbuktu and conquer largely because they have rifles.

Barbary Legend: War, Trade, and Piracy in North Africa, 1415-1830

By godfrey fisher.

“Fisher’s book is a wonderful corrective to the prejudice we have about the Barbary Coast pirates. It almost goes too far. It suggests that the West has approached the idea of North African pirates with a prejudiced eye, because they are Islamic. Fisher says: why don’t we look at how the West related to North Africa and particularly the four Barbary states. These were Morocco and the three Ottoman states of North Africa – Algiers, Tunisia and what we would call Libya.” Read more...

The best books on Pirates

Adrian Tinniswood , Historian

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A country of dazzling diversity, Morocco has epic mountains, sweeping deserts and ancient cities, and it greets travelers with warm hospitality and the perfect glass of mint tea.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Jardin Majorelle

Gueliz & Ville Nouvelle

French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé bought Jardin Majorelle in 1980 to preserve the vision of its original owner,…

Djemaa El Fna

Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth. Everywhere you look in Djemaa El Fna, Marrakesh’s main square (pronounced "jema" – the "d" is silent),…

Musée Yves Saint Laurent

This captivating museum, opened in 2017, showcases finely selected collections of haute couture clothing and accessories that span 40 years of creative…

Bahia Palace

La Bahia (The Beautiful) is an 8000-sq-metre, floor-to-ceiling extravagance of intricate marquetry, plasterwork and zouak (painted wood), and certainly…

Koutoubia Mosque

Five times a day, one voice rises above the din of Djemaa El Fna as the muezzin calls the faithful to prayer from the Koutoubia Mosque. The mosque's…

Saadian Tombs

Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi was just as extravagant in death as he was in life. After the "golden king" built Badia Palace in the 16th…

Erg Chigaga

Draa Valley

The area's star attraction is the misnamed Erg Chigaga, not a single dune (erg) but an incredible stretch of golden sand sea some 56km southwest of M…

Maison Traditionnelle

Anti Atlas Mountains

The 3-storey granite, palm and argan house, some 400 years old, was inhabited by 20 family members – three generations – until 1982. The owner, Mohammed,…

Top picks from our travel experts

12 of the best things to do in morocco.

A 10-minute walk west from the medina is this beloved sea-facing cafe with what many locals consider Tangier's best view. Opened in 1921, Cafe Hafa mainly…

Main Post Office

One of the iconic neo-Moorish buildings around this square, La Poste is the work of Adrien Laforgue who took his inspiration from the Grand'Poste of…

Place Mohammed V

This perpetually busy square is surrounded by striking public buildings, such as the Wilaya and its clock tower and the Courts of Justice, resplendent…

Tangier American Legation Museum

This museum, in an elegant five-storey mansion, is a must-see: Morocco was the first country to recognise the United States by opening its ports to the…

Hassan II Mosque

This opulent mosque, built at enormous expense, is set on an outcrop jutting over the ocean with a 210m-tall minaret that's a city landmark. It's a…

Kasbah Amridil

One of Morocco’s grandest kasbahs, this 17th-century marvel once appeared on the Dh50 note. Signposted just a few hundred metres from the main road, this…

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Best Books About Morocco: What to Read Before You Visit Morocco

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: May 30, 2021

Home >> Destinations >> Africa >> Morocco Travel Guide >> Best Books About Morocco: What to Read Before You Visit Morocco

Morocco is unique. A country characterised by its geographic diversity and cross-cultural influences. Morocco still epitomises an exotic old-world atmosphere lost to so many destinations.

A place where vibrant souks overwhelm first-time visitors with their chaotic rhythm and the heady aromas of spices and local cuisine. At times with an overpowering intensity.

Here is a collection of books about Morocco that will transport you to this enchanted land. Books that remind us that we can still invoke the sights and smells of a faraway place from the pages of a well-written book.

Whether preparing for or considering a trip to Morocco, these books will help you gain a better understanding of Morocco’s rich history, culture, customs and geography. These books are the essential reading list beyond the guidebooks.

From the dunes of the Sahara to the cosmopolitan cities of Casablanca and Tangier , there is something here to inspire you and give you a deeper understanding of this unique country.

Table of Contents

These are the best books about Morocco.

by Paul Bowles

Travels: Collected Writings, 1950-1993

Acclaimed American novelist Paul Bowles lived in Tangier for 52 years. He has a unique place in writing about Morocco, a country he was passionate about. A great introduction to Paul Bowles is the thrilling anthology of his collected travel writings and essays from 1950-1993, Travels . Spanning more than sixty years, Travels is a collection from Bowles’s early days in Paris to his time in Ceylon, Thailand, Kenya, and his life in Morocco. It contains two works on Tangier: Letter from Tangier and A View from Tangier , which reveal his love of the city.

The acclaimed essays in Travel are insightful, exciting, and evocative. A stunning collection of rarely seen shorter works from one of the great American writers of the twentieth century.

The Spider’s House

Set in Fez, Morocco, during the country’s 1954 nationalist uprising, The Spider’s House deals with the political upheaval against the French colonialists. This book explores the gap in understanding between cultures with the dilemma of an outsider in an alien society but the knowledge of a local. Showcasing Bowle’s exceptional narrative skill, this is possibly his most delightfully subtle novel. Lavishly descriptive of its setting and uncompromising in its characterisations.

The Spider’s House is described as “dramatic, brutally honest, and shockingly relevant to today’s political situation in the Middle East and elsewhere”.

Other Books About Morocco by Paul Bowles

Let It Come Down

Their Heads Are Green and Their Hands Are Blue

A House in Fez

by Suzanna Clarke

This book details Suzanna Clarke’s experience of buying a dilapidated Moroccan riad in Fez with her husband in a mission to restore it to its former glory.

A hilariously light-read. Clarke documents her love for the city of Fez, the community and the heart-warming relationships that she and her husband found while navigating the difficulties of renovating a ruined riad in the Fez Medina. “Trust us when we say it’s not as easy as the finished riad looks”.

The Secret Son

by Laila Lalami

The Secret Son is about a poor boy, Youssef, raised by his mother in a one-room house in the slums of Casablanca. With big dreams of living another life in another the world, Youssef discovers his father-whom he’d been led to believe was dead, is not only alive but a very wealthy businessman.

Seemingly eager to give his son a new start, Youssef leaves his mother behind to join the luxurious life of Casablanca’s elite. He revels in a life of luxury until a reversal of fortune sends him back to the streets. Trapped once again by his class and painfully aware of the limitations of his prospects, he becomes susceptible to the ideas of a fringe Islamic group.

For the most accurate descriptions of Morocco, we look to Moroccan authors. In Laila Lalami’s debut novel, The Secret Son looks at the struggle for identity, the need for family and love, and the despair that grips ordinary lives in a world divided by class, politics, and religion.

For More Travel Tips on Morocco

Check Out Our Complete Morocco Packing List

Discover The Best Places to Visit in Morocco

by Edith Wharton

The great American novelist Edith Wharton gives us her colourful and textured travel memoir “In Morroco”. Wharton writes about her time in 1920 travelling through Morocco as the guest of Hubert Lyautey, French Governor General of the Protectorate.

Wharton inspires the reader with a sense of wonder and curiosity that served as the impetus for her travels. Considered a travel writing classic, In Morocco is an extraordinary account of her journey to this exotic Northern African land during World War I. Written with the eye of a documentarian, Wharton explores the culture, history, and beauty of Morocco in an intriguing combination of realism and romantic prose.

Wharton weaves together anthropology with poetry as she writes about the interactions she has in Morocco and with Moroccan culture in all its splendour. “ In Morocco ” is an awe inspiring read full of wanderlust.

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Morocco That Was

by Walter Harris

Walter Harris first arrived in Morocco in 1887 as a correspondent for The Times of London. He died in Tangier in 1933 having lived through the tumultuous last years of Morocco’s ruling Sultans and the loss of the country’s independence. First published in 1921, Morocco That Was is a first-hand narrative of that pivotal turning point in Morocco’s history.

Having a reputation for being capable of even befriending his kidnapper, Harris was a friend to at least three of the ruling Sultans. Legend has it, only three Christians had ever visited the walled city of Chefchaouen : one came for an hour disguised as a rabbi, one was poisoned, and the other was Harris.

Morocco That Was is alternately sharp, melodramatic, and extremely funny. Harris’ writing puts unusual humanism and detail to the historical parade of conquests and political manoeuvring that defined Morocco during his years there. These are the vanished days of the unfettered Sultanate in all their dark, melodramatic splendour. A mix of elegance and poverty, culture and barbarism, refined cruelty with naive humour.

A vivid and lively combination of the perceptive and reliable observer, and romantic eccentric, this book remains a travel classic for good reason. Like a good travel companion and friend, Harris takes the reader by the hand and shows us the Morocco he knew. A world, with all its failings, horror and splendour.

The Caliph’s House – A Year in Casablanca

by Tahir Shah

In a similar vein to A House In Fez , English travel writer Tahir Shah shares an entertaining and amusing account of making an exotic dream come true. Equally hilarious and harrowing, this is the story of his family’s move from London to the city of Casablanca. Inspired by the Moroccan vacations of his childhood, Shah documents his family’s move to Casablanca to renovate a crumbling ruin of a mansion by the sea that once belonged to the city’s caliph or spiritual leader.

After signing the contract, Tahir is amazed to learn the house is infested with jinns; invisible evil spirits said to occupy empty spaces. With the home empty for many years, the fervent belief in their presence hampers sleep and renovation plans. From exorcism rituals involving sacrificial goats to dealing with gangster neighbours, the Shahs must cope with a new culture and the remarkable, sometimes bizarre experiences they have in the process. Where Islamic tradition and African folklore converge–nothing is as easy as it seems.

The Caliph’s House is a captivating story charting a year in the life of one family who takes a tremendous gamble allowing us to discover a world of deep contrasts any true adventurer would be thrilled to call home.

The Last Storytellers- Tales from the Heart of Morocco

by Richard Hamilton

The Last Storytellers

Marrakech is the essence and lifeblood of Morocco’s ancient storytelling tradition. Storytellers have gathered in Jemaa el Fna square for nearly a thousand years to recount ancient folktales to rapt audiences. A unique chain of oral tradition previously passed seamlessly from generation to generation. A tradition teetering on the brink of extinction. After many years studying the storytelling tradition on Jemaa el-Fna and witnessing first hand the death throes of this vibrant and captivating tradition, Richard Hamilton recognised a need to preserve this dying art.

Deep in the labyrinth of the Marrakech medina, Hamilton has tracked down the last few remaining storytellers and recorded the stories filled with moral reminders and the mysteries and beauty of the Maghreb. These are the ancient stories told in public in Jemaa el-Fna square, and in the home amongst family members.

Lords of the Atlas

by Gavin Maxwell

A must-read for anyone travelling from Marrakesh to the Sahara Desert , the book documents the extraordinary story of the rise and fall of the Glaoui brothers reign over the red city and the kasbahs to the south.

Warlord brothers, Madani and T’hami, carved out a feudal fiefdom in southern Morocco and Marrakesh from the early 1900’s until 1956. Turncoats of the French colonial administration, they combined the aggression of gangland mobsters with the opulence of hereditary princes ruling with a mix of flamboyance and terror. In 1953, after returning from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, in a display of power, T’hami fiercely ordered the severed heads of his enemies to be mounted on his gates. Only three years later, when the French left Morocco in 1956, the Glaoua regime toppled like a pack of cards. “A classic story of history, intrigue, mystery, and action”.

Leaving Tangier

by Tahar Ben Jelloun

Award-winning, internationally bestselling author Tahar Ben Jelloun tells the story of a Moroccan brother and sister making new lives for themselves in Spain. Leaving Tangier chronicles the challenges of emigration and the hold Morocco has on its countrymen, who can never forget their roots.

Young Moroccans regularly gather at Tangiers seafront cafe’s to gaze at the lights on the Spanish coast glimmering in the distance. Azel is a young man who dreams of crossing the Strait of Gibraltar and is intent upon leaving one way or another.

At the brink of despair, Azel meets Miguel, a wealthy Spanish gallery-owner, who promises to take him to Barcelona if Azel will become his lover. He leaves behind his girlfriend, his mother and his sister, Kenza, and moves with him to Barcelona, where Kenza eventually joins them. What they find there forms the heart of this novel. A story of seduction and betrayal, deception and disillusionment. Azel and Kenza are reminded powerfully not only of where they’ve come from but also of who they really are.

The Sand Child

Also by Tahar Ben Jelloun the first Maghreb winner of the Prix Goncourt award, this 1985 novel is set in colonial Morocco. A story of Mohammed Ahmed, a girl, raised as a boy due to her Moroccan father’s effort to avoid Islam’s inheritance laws regarding female offspring.

Already father to seven daughters, Hajji Ahmed is determined his eighth child will be a male. And so, the infant girl is named Mohammed and raised as a male along with all the privileges granted exclusively to men in traditional Arab-Islamic society. As Ahmed matures, her desire to have children marks the beginning of her sexual unfolding, and as a woman named Zahra, Ahmed begins to explore her true sexual identity.

Tahar Ben Jelloun offers a creative and radical critique of contemporary Arab social customs and Islamic law, a poetic vision of power, colonialism, and gender in North Africa. The Sand Child is celebrated around the world as a courageous and significant work of international fiction.

A Month in Marrakesh: Recipes from the Heart of Morocco

By Andy Harris

A Month In Marrakesh. Recipes From the Heart of Morocco

What better way to get inspired about Morocco and get a feel for the culture and its cuisine than with a great Moroccan cookbook.

A Month in Marrakesh is the go-to cookbook for preparing the most common day to day dishes served in a Moroccan kitchen. Duo Andy Harris and David Loftus teamed up to present a cookbook that demystifies Moroccan cooking with recipes tailored to the home cook.

Part cookbook and part travelogue, A Month in Marrakesh is an evocative account of the colourful and delicious flavours of Morocco. The book covers all aspects of Moroccan cuisine, from breakfasts and snacks to tagines, roasts, and desserts. It offers a deeper understanding of the local cuisine and its flavours. Great reading before visiting the Moroccan spice markets. It also describes how to prepare some of Morocco’s ingredients such as preserved lemons, harissa and hibiscus syrup.

With stunning images by Photographer David Loftus, who has not only captured the food but also its role in daily life in Marrakech. A Month in Marrakesh showcases the food and culture of Morocco as you’ve never seen before. A lavish and intoxicating mix of ancient and modern. Loaded with useful hints, personal, handwritten vignettes and line drawings that give an intimate feel to Andy’s inspiring recipes.

Best Morocco Guide Books

Fodor’s Essential Morocco

Lonely Planet Morocco

Morocco Rough Guide

Take These Books With You To Morocco

Kindle Oasis – Now with adjustable warm light – Ad-Supported

Best Sellers in Morocco Travel Guides

100 iPhone Photos of Spain, Portugal & Morocco (Photo Essay Book Book 1)

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Best Books to Read About Morocco

9 best books to read before you visit morocco , morocco’s trendsetting books.

Morocco is exclusive . a rustic characterized by its geographic diversity and cross-cultural influences. Morocco still epitomizes an exotic old-world atmosphere lost to numerous destinations. A place where vibrant souks overwhelm first-time visitors with their chaotic rhythm and therefore the heady aromas of spices and native cuisine. sometimes with an overwhelming intensity. Here may be a collection of books about Morocco which will transport you to the present enchanted land. Books that remind us that we will still invoke the sights and smells of a faraway place from the pages of a well-written book.

Whether preparing for or considering a visit to Morocco, these books will assist you gain a far better understanding of Morocco’s rich history, culture, customs, and geography. These books are the essential reading list beyond the guidebooks. From the dunes of the Sahara to the cosmopolitan cities of Casablanca and Tangier, there’s something here to inspire you and provides you a deeper understanding of this unique country.

Titles and Writers Names

Travels by Paul Bowles

Inmore than forty essays and articles that range from Paris to Ceylon, Thailand to Kenya, and, of course, Morocco, the good twen-tieth-century American writer encapsulates his long and full life, and sheds light on his brilliant fiction. Whether he’s recalling the cold-water artists’ flats of Paris’s Left Bank or the sun-worshipping eccentrics of Tangier, Paul Bowles imbues each piece with a deep intelligence and therefore the acute perspective of his rich experience of the planet . Woven throughout are photographs from the renowned author’s private archive, which place him, his wife, the author Jane Bowles, and their many friends and compatriots within the landscapes his essays bring so vividly to life. With an introduction by Paul Theroux and a chronology by Daniel Halpern.

A House in Fez by Suzanna Clarke

When Suzanna Clarke and her husband bought a dilapidated house within the Moroccan town of Fez, their friends thought they were mad. Located during a maze of donkey-trod alleyways, the house – a standard riad – was beautiful but in desperate need of repair. Walls were in peril of collapse, the plumbing non-existent. While neither Suzanna nor her husband spoke Arabic, and had only a smattering of French, they were determined to revive the building to its original splendour, using only traditional craftsmen and handmade materials. But they soon found that trying to try to to business in Fez was like being transported back several centuries in time then began the remarkable experience that veered between frustration, hilarity and moments of pure exhilaration.

But restoring the riad was only a part of their immersion within the rich and vibrant lifetime of this ancient city. A House in Fez may be a journey into Moroccan culture, revealing its day-to-day rhythms, its customs and festivals; its history, Islam, and Sufi rituals; the lore of djinns and spirits; the colourful life-filled market places and therefore the irresistible Moroccan cuisine. And in particular , into the lives of the people – warm, friendly, and hospitable.

Beautifully descriptive and infused with a unprecedented sense of place, this is often a compelling account of 1 couple’s adventures in ancient Morocco.

The Secret Son by Laila Lalami

Youssef el-Mekki, a young man of 19 , lives together with his mother within the slums of Casablanca when he discovers that the daddy he believed to be dead is, in fact, alive and wanting to befriend and support him. Leaving his mother behind, Youssef assumes a life he could only dream of: a famous and influential father, his own penthouse apartment, and every one the luxuries related to his new status. His future appears assured until an abrupt reversal of fortune sends him back to the streets and his childhood friends, where a fringe Islamic group, known simply because the Party, has found out its headquarters. In the spirit of The Inheritance of Loss and therefore the Reluctant Fundamentalist, Laila Lalami’s powerful first novel explores the struggle for identity, the necessity for family, and therefore the desperation that overtakes ordinary lives during a country divided by class, politics, and religion.

In Morocco by Edith Wharton

In 1917, amid the turmoil of war I, Wharton , the author of The Age of Innocence and therefore the House of Mirth, travelled to Morocco. A classic of travel writing, In Morocco is her account of this journey through the country’s cities and thru its deserts. The Ecco Travels edition of In Morocco brings this previously rare and hard-to-obtain Wharton classic back to print after an absence of the many decades.

The Caliph’s House – A Year in Casablanca by Tahir Shah

In the tradition of A Year in Provence and Under the Tuscan Sun, acclaimed English travel writer Tahir Shah shares a highly entertaining account of creating an exotic dream come true. By turns hilarious and harrowing, here is that the story of his family’s move from the grey skies of London to the sun-drenched city of Casablanca, where Islamic tradition and African folklore converge–and nothing is as easy because it seems….

Inspired by the Moroccan vacations of his childhood, Tahir Shah dreamed of creating a range in that astonishing country. At age thirty-six he got his chance. Investing what money he and his wife, Rachana, had, Tahir packed up his growing family and purchased Dar Khalifa, a crumbling ruin of a mansion by the ocean in Casablanca that when belonged to the city’s caliph or leader .

With its lush grounds, cool, secluded courtyards, and relaxed pace, life at Dar Khalifa seems bound to fulfill Tahir’s fantasy–until he discovers that in some ways he’s farther from home than he imagined. For in Morocco an empty home is thought to draw in jinns, invisible spirits unique to the Islamic world. The ardent belief in their presence greatly hampers sleep and renovation plans, but that’s just the start . From elaborate exorcism rituals involving sacrificial goats to handling gangster neighbors bent stealing their property, the Shahs must deal with a replacement culture and every one that comes with it.

Endlessly enthralling, The Caliph’s House charts a year within the lifetime of one family who takes an incredible gamble. As we follow Tahir on his travels throughout the dominion , from Tangier to Marrakech to the Sahara, we discover a world of fierce contrasts that any true adventurer would be thrilled to call home.

The Last Storytellers- Tales from the Heart of Morocco by Richard Hamilton

Marrakech is the heart and lifeblood of Morocco’s ancient storytelling tradition. For nearly a thousand years, storytellers have gathered in Jemaa el Fna, the legendary square of the city, to recount ancient folktales and fables to rapt audiences. But this unique chain of oral tradition that has passed seamlessly from generation to generation is teetering on the brink of extinction. The competing distractions of television, movies, and the Internet have drawn the crowds away from the storytellers and few have the desire to learn the stories and continue their legacy. Richard Hamilton has witnessed first-hand the death throes of this rich and captivating tradition and, in the labyrinth of the Marrakech medina, has tracked down the last few remaining storytellers, recording stories that are replete with the mysteries and beauty of the Maghreb.

Lords of the Atlas by Gavin Maxwell

Set in the medieval city of Marrakesh and the majestic kasbahs of the High Atlas mountains, `Lords of the Atlas’ tells the extraordinary story of the Madani and T’hami el Glaoui, warlord brothers who carved out a feudal fiefdom in southern Morocco in the early twentieth century. Quislings of the French colonial administration, they combined the aggression of gangland mobsters with the opulence of hereditary Indian princes, and ruled with a mixture of flamboyance and terror. On returning from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, T’hami ordered the severed heads of his enemies to be mounted on his gates. Yet in 1956, when the French left Morocco, the Glaoua regime toppled like a pack of cards.A classic story of history, intrigue, mystery, and action.

The Sand Child by Tahar Ben Jelloun

In this lyrical, hallucinatory novel set in Morocco, Tahar Ben Jelloun offers an imaginative and radical critique of contemporary Arab social customs and Islamic law. The Sand Child tells the story of a Moroccan father’s effort to thwart the consequences of Islam’s inheritance laws regarding female offspring. Already the father of seven daughters, Hajji Ahmed determines that his eighth child will be a male. Accordingly, the infant, a girl, is named Mohammed Ahmed and raised as a young man with all the privileges granted exclusively to men in traditional Arab-Islamic societies. As she matures, however, Ahmed’s desire to have children marks the beginning of her sexual evolution, and as a woman named Zahra, Ahmed begins to explore her true sexual identity. Drawing on the rich Arabic oral tradition, Ben Jelloun relates the extraordinary events of Ahmed’s life through a professional storyteller and the listeners who have gathered in a Marrakesh market square in the 1950s to hear his tale. A poetic vision of power, colonialism, and gender in North Africa, The Sand Child has been justifiably celebrated around the world as a daring and significant work of international fiction.

the alchemist by paulo coelho

Paulo Coelho’s enchanting novel has inspired a devoted following around the world. This story, dazzling in its powerful simplicity and soul-stirring wisdom, is about an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who travels from his homeland in Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure buried near the Pyramids. Along the way he meets a Gypsy woman, a man who calls himself king, and an alchemist, all of whom point Santiago in the direction of his quest. No one knows what the treasure is, or if Santiago will be able to surmount the obstacles in his path. But what starts out as a journey to find worldly goods turns into a discovery of the treasure found within. Lush, evocative, and deeply humane, the story of Santiago is an eternal testament to the transforming power of our dreams and the importance of listening to our hearts.

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The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Morocco awaits! With its bustling markets, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, it’s the perfect destination for the traveler seeking a unique experience. From camel rides in the Sahara to exploring ancient medinas, you’ll find something for everyone in this vibrant country. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Morocco has to offer – an unforgettable journey is just around the corner! You don’t have to break the bank to experience Morocco either. This cost-effective destination can be enjoyed on any budget. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or affordable hostels, there are plenty of options available so you can tailor your trip exactly how you want it. And with its easy access from Europe and North America, getting there couldn’t be more convenient. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Morocco today with our travel guide!

Introduction

Welcome to Morocco! This North African country is filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and centuries of history waiting to be explored. With its diverse geography ranging from snow-capped mountains in the High Atlas range to stunning deserts along the Atlantic coast, you can expect a variety of climates throughout the year. And as for culture, Morocco is bursting with vibrant music, delicious food, and traditional art that will give you an unforgettable experience. So let’s dive into this incredible country and take a closer look at its past and present.

From its rugged mountains to its vast deserts, Morocco’s geography is full of wonders waiting to be explored! This country is situated in the North African region and has a total area of 446,550 square kilometers. It is bordered by Algeria, Mauritania, and Western Sahara as well as the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In terms of physiographic regions, Morocco has an immense mountain range called the Rif Mountains which stretch from the north to the northeast of this country.

The Atlas Mountains are located in central Morocco and form a southward arch towards the southwest. The Middle Atlas range lies between these two major ranges while further south is the Anti-Atlas and High Atlas Mountains which form part of the Saharan region. In terms of lowlands, there are three main basins in Morocco namely the Souss-Massa Basin in the southwestern region; El Jadida Basin along the Atlantic coast; Ouergha basin near Al Hoceima city. With such diverse topography, it’s no wonder that visitors can experience a wide variety of climates throughout their trip!

Experience the diverse climates of Morocco, from its hot deserts to its cool mountaintops! From the Mediterranean coast in the north to the Atlantic Coast in the west, and from the Sahara Desert in the south to its rolling hills and lush valleys, Morocco’s climate offers something for everyone. Here are three ways you can take full advantage:

Visit coastal towns like Rabat or Casablanca for a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers.
Head into the Atlas Mountains for cooler temperatures year-round, with snow cover during winter months.
Explore southeastern Morocco’s deserts for an experience unlike any other – hot days and cold nights!
No matter what type of climate you’re looking for, there is something special waiting for you in Morocco – so come explore it all! With such varied conditions across this beautiful country, the culture here is as diverse as its landscapes – so let’s dive into that now.

Discover the incredible culture of Morocco, from its ancient Berber traditions to its vibrant street life! Whether you’re in a bustling city or a small village, you’ll get an immersive experience. Moroccan culture is steeped in tradition and history, with strong influence from the French colonization. You can see this reflected in everything from their dress to their food. For example, couscous and tajine are popular national dishes that have been passed down for generations.

Take some time to explore the fascinating architecture of Morocco’s cities too—marvel at the intricate designs of mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools). And don’t forget to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of local markets—you’ll be sure to find something special here. From traditional music and art to language and cuisine, there’s so much that makes Moroccan culture unique. Transitioning now into a discussion about ‘History’, it’s clear that Morocco has always been a place where different cultures have collided – leaving behind an amazing blend of customs and beliefs.

Dating back centuries, Morocco has been at the crossroads of various empires and civilizations, resulting in a rich history filled with stories of conquest, trade, and religious growth. From the ancient Roman Empire to the Islamic dynasties that followed, Morocco’s history is full of fascinating tales that bring visitors from all around the world. The country has also played an important role in global events such as World War II and its aftermath. With each passing era, Morocco has been shaped by different cultures and beliefs, making it a truly unique destination to explore.

As you learn more about its past, you’ll find yourself captivated by its diverse heritage. From archaeological sites to traditional villages, there are many ways to experience Moroccan history firsthand. And no matter where you go or what time period you choose to visit, you’re sure to be inspired by this amazing country’s deep-rooted culture and traditions. So now that you know about the historical background of this wonderful land – when’s the best time for your next adventure?

Deciding when to visit Morocco can be tricky. The best time to go is typically spring or fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds, although it’s still quite popular during these months. On the flip side, summertime can be oppressively hot and winter cold at night, making them the worst times to take a trip. No matter where you go, you’ll find plenty of adventure and culture in this vibrant country!

Best time to visit

When planning your trip to Morocco, consider when you want to visit; the time of year can make a big difference in your experience. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Morocco is in spring and fall. During these seasons temperatures are mild, which makes exploring the country significantly more pleasant than during summer’s scorching heat or winter’s chilly winds.

In spring (March-May), days are mostly sunny with occasional rain showers that bring life to the desert landscape and blooming flowers to gardens. This season also coincides with cultural festivals such as the International Film Festival of Marrakech and the Timitar Festival of Gnawa Music , providing ample entertainment options for travelers. Fall (September-November) brings an even more vibrant atmosphere due to its harvest season when locals celebrate their crops with festivities. The air is fresh and temperatures range from cool at night to enjoy warmth during day hours.

No matter what time of year you choose, there’s always something unique waiting for you in Morocco; jump into this fascinating culture and let it show you its wild beauty!

The worst time to visit

However, it’s also important to know the worst time to visit Morocco. The summer months of July and August are usually the hottest and driest, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits. This can make sightseeing and outdoor activities difficult. Similarly, winter can be cold and wet in many parts of Morocco as well, making travel more difficult during this season. Therefore, if you’re looking to explore all that this beautiful country has to offer without too much heat or rain interference, spring, and fall are generally the best times for a visit.

Where to Go

If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, then Morocco is the place for you! With a wealth of unique cities to explore, it can be hard to know where to start; however, Marrakech, Fez , Meknes, Chefchaouen , and Essaouira are among the top destinations in the country. Each city offers something different – Marrakech has vibrant souks and markets full of local products; Fez is steeped in ancient history and culture; Meknes is known for its grand gates and palaces; Chefchaouen has charming blue-washed buildings; while Essaouira has a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of beaches.

Marrakech is a city of vibrant colors and culture – an absolute must-see during your trip to Morocco! As you explore the souks, visit the medina, and take in all the sights and sounds of this ancient city, you’ll be captivated by its incredible energy. Here, you can find anything from traditional Moroccan carpets and ceramics to handcrafted jewelry. The smells of spices will fill the air as merchants try to entice you with their wares. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies like tajines or couscous while visiting; these dishes are made with fresh ingredients that will linger on your taste buds long after you’ve left Marrakech. From sunup to sundown, there’s something for everyone in this city – no matter what it is that ignites your wanderlust spirit!

The hustle and bustle of Marrakech will leave you feeling energized yet ready for a change of pace. Thankfully, Fez is just a short drive away! With its narrow alleyways lined with traditional shops, cafes, and workshops selling everything from leather goods to pottery pieces – it’s easy to get lost in this enchanting city. The old town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible architecture which includes numerous palaces, mosques, and madrasas each filled with fascinating history. Exploring these historical sites surrounded by lively markets will give you an insight into traditional Moroccan life that cannot be found anywhere else – so don’t miss out on this unique experience!

Fez is an enchanting city full of history and charm that beckons your exploratory spirit! The city has long been a center for culture, art, and learning with its ancient medina – the world’s largest car-free urban area. With narrow cobbled streets lined with vibrant merchants selling goods from spices to rugs , Fez is sure to captivate even the most experienced traveler. Exploring this city will take you back in time and give you a chance to experience what life was like centuries ago.

From the bustling souks (markets) of the old Medina to the stunning architecture of its mosques and palaces, Fez is a place where travelers can immerse themselves in Moroccan culture. For those looking for a taste of modern-day charm, head over to Ville Nouvelle – an area built by French occupiers in 1912 filled with chic cafes and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine. No matter how you explore it, Fez will leave you feeling charmed by its beauty and inspired by its rich history! Onward now to Meknes – another one of Morocco’s imperial cities!

Meknes is a stunning imperial city that’ll delight your senses with its vibrant culture and architecture! It’s one of the original four imperial cities in Morocco , and it was once the capital of the country. The city has an impressive walled medina, lined with bazaars and ancient sites. Meknes is also home to some beautiful gardens, and there are several palaces throughout the area as well. The architecture is quite unique, mixing traditional Moroccan style with Spanish influence from when Spain occupied part of Morocco.

Visiting Meknes can be a very rewarding experience for those who want to take in all that this gorgeous city has to offer. From exploring its winding alleyways to admiring its grand monuments, you won’t want to miss out on all that this incredible destination offers. With so much history and culture around every corner, Meknes will captivate you from start to finish. Exploring this amazing city will surely give you an unforgettable Moroccan adventure!

From marveling at Meknes’ stunning sights to taking in its rich history, it’s time now for another journey: heading north towards Chefchaouen!

Chefchaouen

Take a journey to the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen , a unique Moroccan city that’ll captivate you with its stunning beauty and relaxed atmosphere. This city is known for its well-preserved medina, or old town, which has been painted in shades of blue for centuries. Whether you’re exploring the narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops and cafes, admiring the beautiful mosques tucked away in secret alleys, or simply watching locals go about their daily routines from one of the many rooftop terraces, there’s no shortage of fascinating things to do here. The laid-back vibe makes Chefchaouen an ideal place to spend some time exploring and soaking up the culture. With all it has to offer, this charming little city is sure to leave you wanting more. To discover yet another charm of Morocco’s cities head over to Essaouira next.

Surrounded by miles of undisturbed beaches and fortified by towering city walls, Essaouira is a captivating port town with plenty of unique attractions. Enjoy the sights and sounds of an authentic Moroccan fishing village as you explore awe-inspiring Old Town streets. Take in stunning views from the top of the ancient ramparts, or wander through bustling bazaars to discover handmade crafts, carpets, and artwork. Unwind on one of the pristine beaches while savoring fresh seafood dishes prepared daily by local fishermen. Relaxed vibes and a slower pace make it easy to lose track of time in Essaouira—you won’t want to leave! Next up on your Morocco adventure is Ouarzazate, a vibrant desert oasis known for its impressive film sets and historic Kasbahs.

From the coastal town of Essaouira, take a road trip south to Ouarzazate in the Saharan Desert. Nestled between stark red mountains and rolling desert sands, this city is an oasis for travelers looking for adventure. Here is a list of must-dos when visiting Ouarzazate:

Visit Taourirt Kasbah – This impressive kasbah was once the home of the Glaoui family and has been featured in many films since then. Enjoy exploring its maze-like corridors and discovering hidden courtyards filled with vibrant colors.
Take a camel ride through the dunes – Get up close and personal with the desert landscape while riding atop a majestic camel on a tour through Erg Chebbi or Merzouga Sand Dunes near Ouarzazate.
Visit Ait Benhaddou – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Morocco’s most famous cities and boasts mud-brick homes, towering kasbahs, and stunning views of the surrounding mountainside. Don’t forget to stop at Café des Sables for lunch!
Climb Jebel Sargho – Get your heart pumping as you summit Jebel Sargho, one of Morocco’s highest peaks located just outside city limits where you can take in breathtaking views from the top.

Ouarzazate offers something unique to every traveler who visits its beautiful desert landscape – now it’s time to explore even further into the Sahara Desert!

Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is a vast expanse of dunes and valleys that will take your breath away. With its golden sand, the desert stretches far in every direction, offering an unparalleled view of serenity and splendor. Soak up the sun’s rays as you trek through ancient pathways and explore the stunning landscape. Experience true tranquility as you watch the sunset against the horizon – it’s an unforgettable experience!

Discover a world unlike any other as you explore the mighty Sahara Desert. Whether you choose to hike to a picturesque oasis or cruise across sand dunes in a four-wheel drive, an adventure awaits in this majestic place. And for those looking for even more thrills, why not try camel riding or sandboarding? No matter what type of journey you embark on, one thing is certain: The Sahara Desert won’t disappoint. From here, take your next steps toward exploring the High Atlas Mountains!

High Atlas Mountains

Experience the raw beauty of the High Atlas Mountains as you explore its rugged terrain. With towering peaks reaching up to 13,671 feet in height, this mountain range is the highest in North Africa and provides a stunning backdrop for any adventure. From skiing and snowboarding during winter months to trekking and mountaineering in summer, there is no shortage of outdoor activities available year-round. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or simply want to take in the majestic views, a visit to the High Atlas Mountains will provide an unforgettable experience.

The High Atlas Mountains also offer numerous cultural attractions that are sure to captivate visitors from around the world. Visit small Berber villages and learn about their rich history while sampling traditional dishes like couscous or tajine. Explore colorful markets where you can find unique souvenirs or barter with locals over goods like handmade rugs and pottery. As you journey through this breathtaking landscape, take time to appreciate its culture and customs – it’s an experience unlike any other! With so much to see and do within these majestic mountains, your Moroccan vacation is sure to be one for the books. Next up: explore Morocco’s Mediterranean coast!

Mediterranean coast

Discover the stunning beauty of Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, with its picturesque beaches and vibrant coastal towns. From the cosmopolitan city of Tangier to the historic Agadir fishing port, there is something for everyone along this stretch of coastline. The crystal clear waters, golden sand beaches , and lush vegetation make it a paradise for sun-seekers, beach lovers, and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or just want to relax in style, Morocco’s Mediterranean coast has plenty to offer.

Take in a captivating sunset on the terrace of one of the many charming cafés that line the waterfront promenades or explore a traditional Berber village nestled among rugged hillsides covered in wildflowers. Adventure seekers can try their hand at sailing, surfing, or kitesurfing; while those who prefer to stay on land can go hiking through cedar forests or take a guided jeep tour across sand dunes. With so much to see and do, Morocco’s Mediterranean coast provides an unforgettable experience no matter what kind of traveler you are! Moving on from here, next up we’ll discuss what else is available for travelers along this beautiful stretch of coastline.

Experience the best of Morocco by exploring its bustling souks, going on a thrilling hike, and spending some time at the beach. Learn about Moroccan culture by soaking up local traditions and sampling the delicious food. All this and more await you in this beautiful destination – so come explore it today!

Explore the souks

Head to the souks and you’ll find yourself in a bustling, vibrant atmosphere filled with sights, sounds, and smells. Wander through the winding alleyways of Morocco’s traditional marketplaces and you’ll have something to please every sense. From hand-crafted rugs and jewelry to exotic spices and leather goods, these bazaars offer an array of unique treasures from all around the world. The hustle and bustle will transport you away from your everyday life as bartering ensues between merchants selling their wares. Make sure to take some time out for a cup of mint tea with locals who are more than happy to share their stories with travelers – it’s an experience not easily forgotten! With plenty of cultures, history, food, music, art, and color around every corner, exploring Morocco’s souks is truly a magical experience that will leave lasting memories. Get ready for some outdoor adventure because next up is going hiking!

Put on your hiking boots and come explore the great outdoors of Morocco! From the majestic Atlas Mountains to the bustling coastal towns, there’s something for everyone in this stunning country. Stroll through lush valleys dotted with olive groves and citrus orchards, and take in breathtaking views of winding rivers and rolling hills. Soak in some sun as you traverse ancient trails lined with wildflowers. As you journey further into the wilderness, you’ll be rewarded with a rich cultural experience full of friendly locals who are happy to share their stories with travelers. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will take your breath away!

Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, hiking is one of the best ways to discover all that Morocco has to offer:

Enjoy unique wildlife sightings such as Barbary macaques, gazelles, eagles, lizards, and more.
Take part in traditional activities like herding goats or picking fruit from nearby farms.
Visit centuries-old Berber villages hidden in remote mountain locations.

These are just a few of the outdoor experiences waiting for you – so put on your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure! With its diverse landscapes and welcoming locals, Morocco offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore nature at its finest. So go ahead – immerse yourself in this spectacular land of beauty and culture; you won’t regret it! Now it’s time to head to the beach – prepare yourself for even more fun in the sun!

Spend time at the beach

Come to Morocco for a one-of-a-kind beach experience! With its stunning Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, you can bask in the sun while exploring tranquil coves, relax on white sand beaches, or take a dip in crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to chill out with friends, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities in this paradise by the sea. From water sports and sunset cruises to exploring traditional fishing villages and exotic markets, there’s something for everyone at the beach. So slip away from reality and let your worries melt away as you soak up some sun in this beautiful country. Take advantage of all that Morocco has to offer – it’s a truly unique experience that you won’t soon forget!

Ready for something even more special? Ditch the crowds and learn about Moroccan culture – a whole new world awaits.

Learn about Moroccan culture

Experience the captivating culture of Morocco and immerse yourself in its unique traditions! From learning about traditional handicrafts to exploring local markets and experiencing a bustling medina, there are plenty of ways to explore Moroccan culture. Here are some tips on how you can get a taste of what makes this country so special:

Visit an authentically designed riad – These traditional homes feature intricate tile work, cozy courtyards, and elaborate decorations that make them perfect for lounging or entertaining guests.
Take in a show at the Djemaa el Fna – This famous city square has been the center of Marrakech’s nightlife for centuries. Every evening, it is filled with musicians, food stalls, snake charmers, and more.
Attend a cooking class – Learn how to prepare flavorful tagines using local ingredients while getting an inside look into Moroccan cuisine .
Experience an authentic hammam – Hammams are public baths that have been used by locals since ancient times as places to socialize and relax. Enjoy steamy saunas followed by a refreshing massage with natural oils and salts.

By taking part in these activities, you’ll be able to truly appreciate all the unique aspects of Morocco’s culture. And after getting your cultural fix, why not sample some of the delicious local dishes?

Sample the Moroccan food

Sink your teeth into Morocco’s flavorful cuisine and savor every bite! From traditional tagines to couscous, Moroccan food has something for everyone. The country’s famous national dish is a fragrant stew cooked in an earthenware pot called a tagine. This often includes vegetables, meats, and spices like saffron or cumin. Couscous is another favorite which consists of steamed semolina grains served with veggies or meat. Street vendors are known for their delicious crepes filled with beef or chicken, olives, tomatoes, and onions – they’re the perfect snack on the go! Delicate pastry desserts such as baklava and chakra are also popular and make great gifts to bring home from your trip. Taste the rich flavors of Morocco – you won’t be sorry!

From exploring the medinas to camel rides in the Sahara Desert, getting around Morocco offers endless possibilities for adventure.

Getting Around

Getting around Morocco is a breeze. You can travel by plane, train, bus, taxi, or grand taxi – all giving you the opportunity to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture. Whichever method of travel you choose, it’ll be an easy and convenient way to get where you need to go.

Flying to Morocco is easy and affordable, with plenty of direct flights from the US and Europe. You can choose to fly into one of the four main international airports in Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, or Tangier. From there, you have a few options for getting around: trains, buses, and taxis. Flying is a great way to get around quickly and easily:

Choose your destination city – Casablanca has bustling markets while Marrakech offers more cultural sights like the Jemaa El-Fnaa Square .
Arrange your flight – look for low-cost carriers like Ryanair or check out online travel agencies like Expedia or Travelocity for deals on major airlines such as Air France or British Airways.
Book your tickets – make sure you’re aware of any visa requirements before booking your tickets!

Flying is an efficient way to explore Morocco; it’s quick and convenient so you can maximize your time in this amazing country! Plus, if you plan ahead there are usually good deals available on flights from all over the world so you can save some money too. Now that you know about flying in Morocco, let’s take a look at how to get around by train…

Taking the train is a great way to explore Morocco and get around in comfort. With high-speed rail lines connecting all major cities, you can traverse the country with ease. Travelers also have access to overnight trains for longer trips, winding through stunning vistas and providing both an incredible view of Morocco and a comfortable way to cover long distances without having to stay in hotels or break up travel plans.

The ticketing system is straightforward and offers travelers discounts on certain routes while reducing prices for children under 12 years old. You can purchase tickets online or directly at the station – reservations are recommended but not always necessary depending on your destination. Plus, many trains offer free Wi-Fi onboard so you can stay connected during your journey! All in all, traveling by train is an ideal way to experience Morocco’s beauty while still being able to relax and enjoy the ride.

With that said, bus travel may be a better option if you’re looking for something more cost-effective or if you plan on making lots of stops along your route.

Exploring Morocco by bus provides an economical way to get around while taking in the sights, sounds, and culture of the country. Advantages of traveling by bus include:

The ability to observe locals going about their daily lives
The opportunity to experience different flavors of Morocco’s beautiful scenery
A chance to meet fellow travelers from all over the world.

Taking a bus ride across Morocco is a great way to explore its diverse landscape and dive into its multicultural society. Plus, you can avoid spending money on accommodation as some routes take you overnight! Ready for your next adventure? Let’s hop aboard a taxi and go!

Hop in a taxi and feel the wind on your face as you explore Morocco in a whole new way! Taxis offer an easy, convenient way to get around the country. Whether you’re traveling from city to city or just need to cover a few blocks, taxis are affordable and often more comfortable than riding in a bus. You can take local petit taxis (small cars) for short trips within cities, or grand taxis (larger vehicles that usually seat six people) for longer trips between cities.

It’s important to note that grand taxis don’t operate like normal cabs—they only leave when they’re full of passengers, so be prepared to have some extra time added onto your journey if there aren’t enough passengers ready at once. Negotiating fares is common practice and should always be done before getting into any type of taxi. With that being said, hopping in one of these cozy little cars with locals is sure to make your Moroccan adventure even more memorable! Onward now – let’s explore grand taxis next!

By grand taxi

Grand taxis are a great way to get around Morocco for longer trips between cities – they’re comfortable and can take you to your destination in no time! While the cost of these taxis may be slightly higher than other methods of transport, it is often worth the convenience. Grand taxis are typically shared by multiple passengers going in the same direction, which means that you will have an opportunity to meet locals and hear stories about their lives. Plus, you won’t need to worry about navigating or waiting in long lines for public transportation. Traveling by grand taxi is a great way to explore Morocco while still getting where you need to go quickly and efficiently.

The best thing about traveling by grand taxi is that several providers offer fixed fares for certain routes, so you can plan out your journey ahead of time without having any surprises when it comes time to pay. Just make sure that all parties agree on the price before you set off, as this ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes time for payment. With that said, let’s move on to some tips for traveling to Morocco!

Tips for Traveling to Morocco

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Learn some basic Arabic phrases so you can communicate with locals, be respectful of Moroccan culture and customs, bargain at the souks for souvenirs, always drink bottled water, and pack light. With these tips in mind, your time in Morocco is sure to be memorable.

Learn some basic Arabic phrases

Greeting locals in Arabic is a great way to make your Moroccan travel experience even more enjoyable – so let’s get started! Learning some basic phrases, such as “hello” and “thank you” will go a long way in helping you connect with the local culture. You may not be able to learn enough of the language to have full conversations, but knowing simple phrases can make all the difference when it comes to being respectful. For example, saying “as-salamu alaykum,”which means “peace be upon you,”is an appropriate greeting that shows respect for locals. Additionally, learning phrases like “shukran,”which means thank you, allows you to express gratitude in a meaningful way. Taking the time to learn these few words of Arabic could really enhance your travel experience and make it much more memorable. Moving forward then into being respectful of Moroccan culture…

Be respectful of Moroccan culture

Immersing yourself in the culture of Morocco can be an incredibly rewarding experience – but it’s important to remember to always show respect. Here are a few key cultural expectations to keep in mind:

Dress modestly – especially when visiting mosques and holy sites. This means avoiding short shorts, tank tops, and low-cut shirts.
When visiting rural areas, always dress conservatively for women. Covering your shoulders will help you avoid unwanted attention from locals.
Respect religious customs – specifically non-Muslim customs such as Ramadan fasting or Islamic prayers. Refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, or making loud noises during these periods of worship.
Be mindful of local customs – this includes being aware of how much physical contact is acceptable between men and women in public spaces (it’s not recommended). Additionally, it is considered polite to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.

Being mindful of these cultural nuances while traveling can ensure that your experience is both respectful and enjoyable! Transitioning into the next section about bargaining in the souks should come easy after being mindful of cultural norms – it’s time to get shopping!

Bargain in the souks

Shopping in the souks of Morocco can be a thrilling experience – but don’t forget to bargain for the best price! You’ll find amazing items like leather goods, spices, carpets, jewelry, and clothing. Don’t just accept the first offer given to you; it’s expected that you will barter with shopkeepers for a better price. It’s important to stay polite and friendly while bargaining, as this is an essential part of Moroccan culture. And while haggling is part of the fun, make sure not to be disrespectful or come off too aggressive; it won’t get you anywhere. When you’ve reached a deal that works for both parties, relish in your victory as you walk away with a great souvenir at a great price. Next up: drinking bottled water!

Drink bottled water

When visiting Morocco, make sure to always drink bottled water – it’s the safest way to stay hydrated! Bottled water is widely available throughout the country at stores, restaurants, and street vendors. It’s also common knowledge that taps water in Morocco is not safe for drinking due to high levels of bacteria and other contaminants.

Drinking bottled water has many benefits: it can prevent gastrointestinal issues; it helps keep you cool in hot climates; and most importantly, it allows you to enjoy all the amazing sights and sounds of Morocco worry-free! With that said, packing light – including a reusable bottle for refills – will ensure you have enough space for souvenirs and mementos from your trip.

Pack light and bring a reusable bottle so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about packing too many souvenirs. There’s no need to overpack for Morocco – just bring the basics! A few changes of clothes, some comfortable shoes, and toiletries should suffice for most trips. Bring a lightweight backpack or day bag to carry all your essentials easily. This will help you move around without feeling weighed down by excess baggage. Plus, it’ll be easier to explore different parts of the country without having to worry about lugging heavy bags around with you. With just the right amount of items packed in a lightweight bag, you’ll be ready to get out there and start exploring Morocco!

By packing light and bringing only what you need for your trip, not only will it save time at check-in but it will also save money on extra baggage fees from airlines. And when it comes time to head home, you won’t have to worry about paying additional fees for overweight luggage or having to purchase extra boxes for souvenirs – leaving more room in your budget for other experiences while traveling! So remember: pack light and leave plenty of space in your suitcase (or backpack) for all the wonderful memories that await during your Moroccan adventure.

Are you looking to plan a trip to Morocco but have no idea what it may cost? Well, you’ve come to the right place! We’re here to break down the average costs of a trip so that you can plan your vacation without worrying about breaking the bank. So let’s take a look at how much it will cost for you to travel to Morocco!

How much does it cost to travel to Morocco?

Planning a trip to Morocco doesn’t have to break the bank – with careful budgeting, you can explore this vibrant country without blowing your budget. Prices for food and basic items like toothpaste or shampoo are quite reasonable in most parts of Morocco so your biggest expense will likely be accommodation. Depending on the type of accommodation you choose, prices can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury 5-star resorts. If you plan ahead and book early, you can often find good deals on flights and hotels that won’t drain your wallet. With a bit of research and careful planning, it’s possible to enjoy a trip to Morocco without breaking the bank! And when it comes time to find a place to stay during your visit, there are plenty of great options available.

Accommodation

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Morocco, you’ve got plenty of options. From hostels and hotels to camping, there are accommodations that fit every budget, so don’t worry about not finding something suitable. You can also choose from traditional Moroccan riads or kasbahs if you want a more authentic experience.

Where to Stay in Morocco

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, Morocco has a stay option that’s perfect for you! From rustic camping and caravanning to luxury all-inclusive resorts, there are plenty of places to rest your head during your visit. Whether your goal is a relaxing getaway or an adventure in the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re more into the local vibe, you can find traditional Moroccan riads with rooftop terraces and ornate courtyards — perfect for experiencing the culture up close. And no matter where you stay, stunning views of deserts, mountains, and oases are sure to make it memorable. When it comes to accommodation in Morocco, the possibilities are truly endless. Now let’s move on to visas and currency when traveling in this exciting country!

Visas and Currency

If you are planning a trip to Morocco, it’s important to know what kind of visa you need and what currency is used. To make things easier, here’s a quick rundown of visas and currency in Morocco so you can plan your trip without any hassle. You’ll need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling, and the local currency is the Moroccan Dirham . Make sure you familiarize yourself with exchange rates and plan accordingly!

What do I need to know about visas and currency in Morocco?

You’ll need to familiarize yourself with both the visa requirements and currency exchange when planning a trip to Morocco. * Make sure you have an up-to-date passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

Find out if you need a visa in advance or if you can obtain one upon arrival in Morocco.
Research the currency before you go to avoid surprises when exchanging money.
Compare exchange rates offered by banks, kiosks, and other money changers for better deals.
Familiarize yourself with local customs to ensure a more enjoyable experience in Morocco.

Visas and currency are just two of the details involved in planning a trip to Morocco, but they should be taken seriously before traveling so you don’t run into any problems or delays during your vacation. With some preparation and research beforehand, getting help from locals once you arrive should be smooth sailing!

Getting help

If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Morocco, don’t worry. You can get some assistance from the local people, who are friendly and willing to lend a helping hand. If you’re lost or have any other issues, try asking one of the locals for help. Additionally, if you’re looking for more specialized assistance, there are many tour guides available who can provide valuable information and guidance throughout your trip.

What if I need help while I’m in Morocco?

You can always find assistance if you need it while in Morocco; the locals are more than happy to help. Whether it’s directions, recommendations, or simply a friendly face, there is no shortage of people eager to lend a hand. You may even find that your hostel staff or hotel concierge will be able to provide invaluable information and advice about the area. Or perhaps you just need someone to chat with – many locals love talking about their culture and country so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation! Additionally, many cities have tourist offices which can often provide valuable resources for travelers looking for help navigating their way around Morocco. Whatever your needs, don’t be afraid to ask for help – you’ll likely find plenty of friendly faces willing and able to assist you during your travels in Morocco!

You’ve now got all the info you need to get started planning your trip to Morocco with our travel guide! With its stunning beaches, unique culture, and world-class attractions, there’s something in this country for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-timer, you won’t regret making the journey. Make sure to budget accordingly and plan ahead so that you can make the most of your time in Morocco. Don’t forget to try some of their delicious local cuisines while you’re there! So what are you waiting for? Start packing and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Book the best Morocco all-inclusive tours!

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6 days tour from Fes to Marrakech

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Moon Morocco (Travel Guide) Paperback – December 24, 2019

There is a newer edition of this item:.

Moon Morocco: Local Insight, Strategic Itineraries, Desert Excursions (Moon Middle East & Africa Travel Guide)

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Flexible itineraries including one week in Marrakesh, retreats to Fez, Casablanca, and the Sahara, mountain excursions, and the two-week best of Morocco
Strategic advice for history and culture buffs, beachgoers, adventure junkies, and more
Top sights and unique experiences: Cook your own traditional tajines in a restored riad or treat yourself to world-class French cuisine. Trek the soaring peaks and jaw-dropping valleys of Morocco's four mountain ranges (by foot, or by mule!), or relax on miles of idyllic beaches. Sip refreshing mint tea and unwind in a traditional hammam , haggle at a busy souk, or explore one of Morocco's nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Insight from Morocco expert Lucas Peters on how to support local and sustainable businesses, avoid crowds, and respectfully engage with the culture
Full-color, vibrant photos and detailed maps throughout
Reliable background on the landscape, climate, history, government, and cultural customs and etiquette, plus useful tips on public transportation, car and bike rentals, and air travel
Handy tools including Darija and French phrasebooks, visa information, and accommodations, and travel tips for families, seniors, travelers with disabilities, and LGBTQ travelers
Print length 544 pages
Language English
Publisher Moon Travel
Publication date December 24, 2019
Dimensions 5.5 x 0.75 x 7.63 inches
ISBN-10 1640491333
ISBN-13 978-1640491335
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Publisher ‏ : ‎ Moon Travel; 2nd edition (December 24, 2019)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 544 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1640491333
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1640491335
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.1 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.75 x 7.63 inches
#109 in Morocco Travel Guides
#397 in Hotels & Inns Travel Reference (Books)
#3,333 in Tourist Destinations & Museums Guides

About the author

Lucas peters.

Writer and photographer Lucas Peters has spent much of the past two decades exploring and developing his love for travel. He has sipped wine with the monks at the Rila Monastery in Bulgaria, squeezed through a melting glacier in Iceland, and awkwardly tried to dance in the hippest club in Berlin. He has busked on the streets of London, concussed himself snowboarding in the Alps, road-tripped with friends through most of Italy and discovered that not all roads lead to Rome (and that it is a very good idea to travel with an old-fashioned road map). He has ordered lunch in Czech, negotiated a car rental in Bulgarian, and talked himself out of a parking ticket in Granada using very, very broken Spanish. Today, from his base in Tangier, Morocco he often finds himself peering over the Strait of Gibraltar to Spain from his balcony, dreaming about tapas.

Lucas is the author of Grand European Journeys, Moon Morocco, Moon Marrakesh & Beyond, and Moon Seville, Granada, and Andalusia. He also recently contributed to Our Morocco: Moroccans and Expats Share Their Hopes, Dreams, and Adventure.

Lucas has written and photographed articles various magazines, journals, and other outlets, including En Route, Transitions Abroad,Travel Zoo, The Luxury Blog, Verge Magazine, Veg News, and Travel + Leisure.

Today, Lucas lives in Tangier with his wife and two kids. Together, as a multi-lingual family, they continue to explore Morocco, Europe, and beyond!

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Books about Morocco – 17 best novels set in Morocco

Updated Spring 2024

If you’re looking for the best books about Morocco, then you’ve come to the right place. As avid fans of this welcoming North African country, we’re always keen to devour any novels set in Morocco that we can get our hands on. It’s a good idea to dive into a bit of literature or soak up a few fictional stories before heading out for your very first visit, to help prepare you for the experience ahead. Or if you want to indulge in the memories and learn more about the country, reading Morocco books when you’ve returned home is a great way to relive the dream and explore even deeper to better understand the cultures and stories that make this land so precious.

There are heaps of books set in Morocco , ranging from starry-eyed fictional tales of romance and adventure, to historical travel literature and light-hearted stories about expats navigating the realities of re-settlement.

We’ve put together a list of the best stories and top authors championing Morocco for you to try.

The best books about Morocco

Table of Contents

The Caliph’s house – by Tahir Shah

I’ll start with my favourite book set in Morocco, written by a fabulous author who tells it like it is, with more than just a splash of self-effacing humour. This entertaining novel deserves a place at the top of our Moroccan reading list thanks to the amusing and sometimes terrifying descriptions that draw you into the everyday realities of building a life in a new country.

What is it about? The Caliph’s House charts the experiences of Tahir Shah and his family as they move from London to Casablanca and renovate a ruined mansion. Encounters with mischievous djinns that lead to bizarre exorcism rituals are just part of the adventure as the Shahs navigate the turbulent waters of fitting into a new culture and society. Full of drama and hilarious anecdotes, this book on Morocco is a real page turner.

Best for: those of you who have visited Morocco and come away dreaming of buying your own riad and living a life of 1001 nights. You might want to read this before you do anything!

Buy The Caliph’s House on Amazon

The Salt Road – by Jane Johnson

This was the first Morocco fiction book that I ever read, and it helped lure me into what is now a rather healthy obsession with this sparkling country. I loved The Salt Road because it introduces the reader to Tafraout and the Anti-Atlas Mountains , rather than sticking with the usual locations of Marrakech or Fes. Jane has an easy way with words, which makes reading the entire book in one go entirely do-able!

What is it about? This is a true fairytale – Moroccan-style. Packed with sweeping desert dunes, silver amulets, and handsome Tuaregs, The Salt Road has all the elements of a good old tale. There’s plenty of romance under the twinkling stars, plus a princess and secret riddles to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Best for: readers looking for a bit of escapism and romance as well as an insight into some of the less visited parts of Morocco.

Purchase The Salt Road

A Year in Marrakech – by Peter Mayne

I picked up Peter Mayne’s book after our very first trip, and despite being written over 60 years ago, it spoke to me as if it were penned yesterday. The vivid descriptions of life deep inside the Marrakech medina give a fascinating glimpse into society that has changed little over the years. Of all the Morocco books I’ve read, this is one of the most charmingly honest, with the author writing for himself as much as the reader.

What is it about? Peter Mayne lived in the heart of the old city in Marrakech during the 1950s, and recounts his daily life in this timeless book about Morocco. Go on a journey through hidden alleyways and bustling markets as Mayne explores his local neighbourhood, meets new friends, and learns how to live in the famous red city.

Best for: first time visitors to Marrakech wanting to get a feel for the place, and old-hands who want to reminisce about times gone by.

Buy A Year in Marrakech

The Saffron Trail – by Rosanna Ley

This is one of the best escapist novels set in Morocco that I’ve had the pleasure of reading, and indeed Rosanna Ley has a whole library of exciting fictional stories set in exotic locations that you might want to try too. This Moroccan novel is full of magic, mystery, and the sort of self-discovery that we all secretly hope for. If want to be transported to another time and place without leaving your sofa, you won’t be disappointed with this!

What is it about? This enchanting tale takes you on a journey from the sandy coves of rural Cornwall to the purple saffron fields of southern Morocco. The protagonist, Nell, escapes to Marrakech and embraces the magic of Moroccan cuisine to heal wounds of the past and explore her new-found heritage.

Best for: anyone planning on spending an afternoon reading on the beach, or those interested in Moroccan food (and who wouldn’t be, it’s delish!).

Buy The Saffron Trail on Amazon

Assembly of the Dead – by Saeida Rouass

It took me a while to pick up this book, because I’m not usually a fan of who-done-its. Yet following the trials and tribulations of a detective from Tangier through the murky underworld of 20th-century Morocco had me intrigued. On the surface, this is a fictional crime story like any other, yet it gives an intriguing insight into the goings on in Marrakech’s dark alleyways in a way no other travel literature could. It’s actually become one of my favourite Morocco books, because it’s just a bit different!

What is it about? Detective Farook is a fish out of water when he swaps coastal Tangier for the dangerous streets of Marrakech. Young women are being abducted and it’s his job to find out who, and why. Hampered at every turn, and battling the ravages of famine, he follows a trail of death and suspicion to a finale at Djemma el Fna – the place of the dead.

Best for: crime fiction fans with an interest in Moroccan history, and those who are intrigued about the gruesome past of Marrakech’s main square.

Buy The Assembly of the Dead

The Last Storytellers: Tales from the Heart of Morocco – by Richard Hamilton

If you’ve ever been to the Djemma el-Fna at night and seen the crowds of locals listening in silent captivation to a storyteller recounting unbelievable stories bound up in lore and mystery, then you’ll love this book about Morocco. The folktales have been passed down through the generations through oral tradition, and until now many have never graced the pages of a humble book.

What is it about? Richard Hamilton has made it his mission to preserve the dying tradition of Moroccan storytelling by collecting some of the best tales and collating them in this highly-readable book. These ancient fables add a dash of colour and intrigue to a country that lives and breathes mystery, and gives readers a glimpse into a part of society that visitors rarely get to experience.

Best for: anyone who likes books about Morocco that they can dip in and out of, with a touch of magic and tales you’re unlikely to hear anywhere else.

Buy The Last Storytellers on Amazon

A Death in the Medina – by James von Leyden

This is another book set in Morocco with a thrilling fictional crime story at its heart. The setting is captivating, the characters quirky, and the tale is timed to coincide with Ramadan which adds another fascinating layer to the drama. This is Marrakech as you’ve never seen it before, but don’t worry, the shady individuals and devious plots won’t put you off going to visit!

What is it about? A young detective is set the task of tracking down the culprit after an English tourist is robbed during a sweltering summer in the red city. Follow him into a shadowy realm where murky secrets, dangerous foes and even death lurk around every corner.

Best for: budding super sleuths who love solving mysteries against an exotic backdrop.

Buy A Death in the Medina

Adventures in Morocco – by Alice Morrison

Writer and adventurer Alice Morrison shares her own personal tales of life in Morocco, from running the famous Marathon des Sables to hiking in the Atlas Mountains . Well known on the geographical presenting scene, Alice’s experiences have served to inspire many an amateur explorer, particularly women who love hearing about her solo travels in this North African country.

What is it about? Alice first travelled to Morocco to run in the Marathon des Sables, but ended up making her home in Marrakech and visiting all corners of the country in search of adventure. Read about her exploits living with nomads in the Sahara, and experience Morocco through her eyes as she takes you on an inquisitive journey to far away places.

Best for: self-confessed adventurers and armchair explorers will love these tales of cultural discovery and epic landscapes.

Buy Adventures in Morocco

The Lioness of Morocco – by Julia Drosten

This enchanting Morocco fiction book is a real winner when it comes to unashamed indulgent holiday reading. Set in the 19th century, The Lioness of Morocco elegantly transplants an unmarried young woman from pre-Victorian England into the strange new world of Mogador on the North African coast. A story of survival and eventual triumph against the odds, this book complements any Morocco reading list.

What is it about? Sibylla sees marriage as a way to escape the oppressions of London life, and sets off for a new start in Morocco. Things soon go wrong of course, with a deceitful husband, a handsome French soldier, and a wily sultan complicating matters.

Best for: anyone wanting to learn more about the Berber culture while reading a jolly good tale.

Purchase The Lioness of Morocco

A House in Fez – by Suzanna Clarke

This is an intelligent book with real heart, charting the life of a couple who upped sticks from New Zealand and bought a crumbling house to renovate in the centre of Fez. Hidden down a maze of narrow alleys in this ancient city, the house was a labour of love and learning. The intrepid duo purchased another house a few years later – Dar Malika – which is a delightfully traditional riad with homely touches that you can stay in during your visit!

What is it about? Susanna and her husband Sandy purchase a house in danger of collapse in the heart Fez, and spend the next few years bringing it back to life. Negotiating the curiosities of local life that bring with them both frustration and elation, the couple eventually finish the job and settle permanently in their newfound home.

Best for: anyone who has dreams of running a riad in Fez and wants to know the pitfalls before taking the plunge.

Buy A House in Fez on Amazon

The Sultan’s Wife – by Jane Johnson

I make no apologies for including two fiction novels set in Morocco by Jane Johnson (in fact there’s another one to read too – The Tenth Gift ). As well as whisking you along for a rollercoaster ride packed with unlikely alliances, skulduggery, and murder, The Sultan’s Wife gives a rare glimpse into court life under tyrannical rulers. It’s also set in Meknes which is a welcome change from the usual haunts.

What is it about? Englishwomen Alys is captured by corsairs during a sea voyage, and sold into the sultan’s harem. Battling to survive in this unknown and seemingly hostile land, she must choose between renouncing her faith, or certain death. Cue inquisitive slaves, impetuous royals, and a sorceress queen to perpetuate the mysteries of the Moroccan court in this captivating story.

Best for: readers who as youngsters secretly dreamed about being captured by dashing pirates and transported off to a world of adventure and discovery.

Purchase The Sultan’s Wife

For Bread Alone – by Mohamed Choukri

This autobiographical novel by Moroccan author Mohamed Choukri doesn’t fail to leave a lasting impact on anyone who turns these pages. For Bread Alone follows his story of desperation and the struggle for survival against a backdrop of famine and neglect in 20th-century Morocco.

What is it about? Mohamed arrives in Tangiers as a young boy, when his family are forced from their Rif Mountain home in the search for food, and a higher quality of life. Yet instead he is faced with the death of his siblings, as well as neglect, which sets him on a path of discovery in a world where alcohol and drugs reign supreme. Mohamed later gets caught up in the independence riots of 1952, which leads to jail time and ultimately a life-long passion for literature.

Best for: those who want to read a book by a Moroccan author and get a taste of what life was like during the 1950s.

Purchase For Bread Alone on Amazon

In Arabian Nights – by Tahir Shah

This is another compilation of folklore tales painstakingly researched and collected from all corners of Morocco. Tahir Shah is a supremely readable author, telling his stories with humour and insight. In Arabian Nights is one of the best books set in Morocco as it doesn’t just focus on the usual suspects. Instead it delves deeply into societal oral heritage, taking you on a whirlwind tour of a side to the country few outsiders ever get to know.

What is it about? Tales that originated in the medinas of Marrakech and Fez are presented side by side with stories from the depths of the Saharan wilderness and the rocky Atlas Mountains. The characters in this Morocco book are eccentric and the narratives vivid, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns along the way.

Best for: those who want to be whisked away to a world unknown in bite-sized snippets, where djinns and warriors roam the land.

Buy In Arabian Nights on Amazon

What Lies Within – by Annabelle Thorpe

This psychological thriller is an intense read, showing the less savoury side of expat life in Marrakech and how being a fish out of water can really take its toll. The book centres around friendships which turn out to be based on lies, set against the colourful backdrop of the red city’s souks and riads.

What is it about? Three friends living very different lives come together and move to start a new life in Morocco. Things soon start to unravel, with revelations about their pasts sending shockwaves through the group. Add in an unthinkable crime and the confusion that comes from trying to fit into a new society, and you’re in for a wild ride.

Best for: anyone who loves an edge-of-your-seat whodunit story and is interested to find out about the less shiny side of Marrakech.

Buy What Lies Within on Amazon

The Sand Child – by Tahar ben Jelloun

This book set in Morocco draws on the rich oral history of the country to tell a tale that is at times as uncomfortable as it is revealing. It is a powerful relay of colonialism and gender politics in North Africa, with a very human story at its heart to convey the daring threads that challenge ideals and provoke discussion.

What is it about? The eighth daughter of a man with no sons is raised as a boy to circumvent social rules and Islamic laws surrounding female inheritance. As she grows older, the girl begins to experience the sexual desires of a woman, and this novel follows the extraordinary chapters in her life as it unfolds.

Best for: readers who want to scratch below the surface and immerse themselves in a world where few outsiders have even trodden.

Buy The Sand Child

Lords of the Atlas – by Gavin Maxwell

This one’s for the true Morocco enthusiasts who want a deeper understanding of the places they’ve visited and the sights they’ve seen in the country. Of all the historical books about Morocco, this is my favourite, because having visited so many of the kasbahs and strongholds mentioned, I can now appreciate the backstories of these special places. This is in no way fiction, but the characters and escapades revealed could truly have come out of 1001 nights!

What is it about? Lords of the Atlas charts the history of the Glaoui tribe, and follows their early 20th-century journeys from medieval Marrakech to their regal kasbahs perched high in the Atlas Mountains. This true story follows the lives of two warlord brothers and their feudal kingdom in southern Morocco, and the struggle to retain power against rival forces.

Best for: anyone wanting to learn about how Morocco has been shaped over the centuries, to give context to the tourist sights of today.

Buy Lords of the Atlas

The Sheltering Sky – by Paul Bowles

Written in 1949 by American expat Paul Bowles, who settled in Tangier for much of his life, The Sheltering Sky targets the feeling of alienation often experienced by newcomers. The underlying theme of the tale that could be transposed to any part of the world, but draws on Bowles’ own experiences if living life in a new land.

What is it about? Married couple Port and Kit travel from New York to explore North Africa, with open minds and no ultimate destination. Their mission is to rekindle their marriage, but the differences between their known modern world of America, and the unfamiliar cultures they are faced with soon take their toll.

Best for: readers keen to expand their knowledge of historical Morocco or those who have seen the 1990 film and want to find out more.

Purchase The Sheltering Sky

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of books about Morocco, and have found a few things to add to your reading list. If there are any other novels set in Morocco that you think should be added, let us know in the comments! We’re always on the lookout for new Morocco books to sink our teeth into, and know that these just scrape the surface.

Happy reading!

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Heather, here’s another novel set in Morocco that you’ll love: “Shadows the Sizes of Cities,” a sensual psychological thriller by author Gregory W. Beaubien

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The Best 7 Day Morocco Itinerary for You

April 25, 2023

Plan your perfect Morocco itinerary with these 7 day guides and schedules

Find your perfect Morocco itinerary with this hand-picked collection of 7 day Morocco itineraries for first time visitors and return travellers alike.

Disclosure: if you book through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers for that!

Cover image for how to plan your best Morocco itinerary collage of Moroccan images

How to Plan Your 7 Day Morocco Itinerary

From Marrakesh, with its maze of alleys and courtyards, to the awe-inspiring Atlas and the sighing sights and sands of the Sahara, Morocco has an unfair advantage. How can one country ooze with memorable experiences like a ripe fig between your fingers, while other places struggle to scrabble together more than a dusty claim to fame in an old movie no one can remember.

Not only does Morocco have enough to draw you back again and again but it’s almost humble in the way its stories unfold. You won’t find much of the brash and hustle and hee-haw of other popular spots. Somehow, apart from certain squares and souks, a kind of softness and quiet politeness has become the norm.

And what’s even more bewildering is Morocco’s constant contrast between new and old, an almost mythical atmosphere where luxurious resorts coexist with simple Berber tents.

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Many Different Morocco Itineraries

Morocco is a country I’ve fallen in love with and visited many times. But I know that it can feel overwhelming, as well as exciting, when you sit down to plot out your own 7 day itinerary through Morocco.

Since the country has so much to offer and it’s impossible to cover everything in one week, I’ve come up with different itineraries to guide you.

The first one is the one that we’re just back from, a week long trip to Morocco with kids, getting off the beaten track and under the skin of the country – at least a little. But each itinerary takes in some of the main attractions of Morocco, so start reading through, choose the one that speaks to you the most, book your ticket and hit the road.

Action begets action, after all.

Child sitting on a camel, gazing at the dunes as a way to travel to Morocco

How to Travel to Morocco

Morocco is well connected to almost every part of the world, with planes, buses, trains, and ferries that arrive and depart from its main cities every day. Depending on where you are travelling from, here are the options available:

By plane: You can fly to Morocco from several major cities around the world. This is the most comfortable way of travelling, as you can book a direct flight and arrive at the Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, Marrakesh Menara Airport in Marrakesh, or Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport in Tangier. It’s only 3 hours 40 from the UK, for example, and no jet lag. As ever, I’d recommend comparing flight prices with Skyscanner to find the best deal.
By ferry: If you are coming from Europe, taking a ferry to Morocco from Spain, France, or even Italy is a possibility. The most popular ferry routes are from Algeciras in Spain to Tangier or Ceuta and from Sète in France to Tangier.
By bus: Buses travel regularly to Morocco from neighbouring countries in North Africa, like Tunisia, but there are also bus services from Spain.
By car: If you are planning a road trip through Morocco, you can drive your car through the land border at Ceuta or Melilla or take the ferry from Spain, Italy, or France and continue your trip once you arrive in Morocco. For most travellers, though, it’s best to pick up your car after flying into Morocco. A car is a nuisance in the old part of Marrakesh, so plan to only collect it when you’re ready to leave the city. See our guide to driving in Morocco here.
By train: There are train services from Europe to Morocco via the ferry from Algeciras to Tangier.

Map of This Morocco Itinerary

What is it like to have a private driver in Morocco?

The first Moroccan itinerary here is the trip we’re just back from. This is the route we followed in partnership with Sun Trails, with our daughter, then six.

Sun Trails are a boutique tour operator who run Morocco private tours . We travelled with a private driver, named Daoud, who also took on the role of interpreter in many places, finding local guides at the top sights.

Berber driver Daoud on a bespoke Morocco itinerary

Honestly? I was worried that this would feel intrusive during a family holiday and probably wouldn’t have taken the plunge had it not been a work project.

But in reality, it was one of the best travel decisions I’ve made.

Daoud was wonderful with Rosa (she still talks about him all the time) and he helped us to speak to the local people we met and showed us things that we would otherwise have missed.

Berber guide Daoud playing with Rosa in Morocco

Perhaps most importantly? He was also quiet and allowed us to settle into our routine. We never got the impression that stopping for a toilet break or photo stop was irritating and he had a sixth sense for when we wanted to talk and learn and when we wanted to enjoy the silence and watch the scenery glide by.

It was such a hit that, in countries where there is a language barrier, I’m going to actively seek out this way of getting around.

It’s also worth mentioning that you can also book a private Morocco tour with Sun Trails as a couple, a solo traveller or as a group of friends. They’re there to create a bespoke itinerary for you, not just to arrange trips for those with kids.

Child staring out at the sand dunes in Morocco

7-Day Morocco Itinerary 1: Off the beaten track from Marrakesh

Sweeping up over the Tizi n Tichka pass in the Atlas Mountains , this itinerary takes you from the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh into solitary outposts amid alien rock formations. You’ll see palm-lined retreats, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, underground cities and, of course, those burnt orange desert sands.

It’s a way of combining many of the highlights of Morocco without getting too caught up in the tourist traps along the way.

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakesh

Depending on what time you arrive, you can either leap into action and start exploring the city or simply check in at your hotel, have a nice dinner, and recover from any jet lag (unlikely if you’re coming from the UK, however.)

Hotel Recommendations for Marrakesh:

Luxury: Royal Mansour Marrakesh
Mid-range: Riad Chergui
Budget: Hotel Aday

· Where to Dine in Marrakesh:

Luxury: La Grande Table Marocaine
Mid-range: Nomad
Budget: Chez Lamine

Riad Chergui

This beautiful little spot with its small pool and crushed red velvet restaurant lies tucked away within a maze of twists and turns in the old part of Marrakesh. It’s unpretentious and absolutely gorgeous.

Day 2: Marrakesh

Marrakesh can be something of a culture shock, especially around the UNESCO World Heritage Site and hubbub of Jemaa el-Fna square. While most people fall in love with the city eventually, it can be a little overwhelming to begin with, particularly if you’re travelling with kids.

The solution? I’d highly recommend easing in to things and a great way to do this is by taking a cooking class with a local guide.

Marrakech cooking class at Mama Toto's house with a family chopping onions and preparing a chicken tagine as part of an authentic Morocco itinerary

Cooking Class in Marrakesh

Our first morning in Marrakesh involved winding our way through the streets of the old Medina, struggling to keep up with the young woman ahead. Slim, dressed in jeans and with long, flowing hair, she was a student at the local university and our interpreter for the day.

She led us to a traditional, if grand, house in the heart of Marrakesh. One with tiles and balconies, an open courtyard inside and mirrors aplenty.

It was here we met Mama Toto, our chef and instructor for the session.

To her friendly chitter and jolly chatter, we chopped and washed, kneaded and pleaded and sipped green tea until finally our masterpiece was ready: a chicken tagine with olives and preserved lemon.

Somewhat surprisingly, I’ve made this dish at home, now, several times and it always comes out just as good. The secret inside tip? Create a layer of sliced onions at the base of your tagine to stop the chicken scorching or drying out.

Abigail King at Bahia Palace on a tour in Marrakech Morocco

Tour Marrakesh

Take the afternoon to explore the city’s main tourist attractions, such as the opulent Bahia Palace with its intricate mosaics, hand-carved ceilings, and superb gardens, or the Saadian Tombs which date back to the 16th century. If time permits, stop by the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakesh, before wandering through the narrow alleys of the Medina, the city’s old town.

Again, as part of our itinerary with Sun Trails , we opted to have a city guide to help us save time since we only had one afternoon. He dutifully took us through the top sights, pointing out the similarities between Moroccan architecture and Seville where we used to live.

Marrakesh Medina

But he really came into his own in the souks, with inside knowledge of where to find sparkling lights, eucalyptus cold remedies, and indigo. Plus, no trip to Morocco can be complete without a trip to a friend’s carpet shop, right?

Under his watchful eye, we witnessed the friendliest and most welcoming demonstration of carpets I’ve seen in all my travels along North Africa and the Middle East.

Market stall of spices in Marrakech Medina in the Old Town

Day 3: Marrakesh to Skoura

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Skoura.

It’s an early start on day three to journey towards Skoura, a gorgeous vally of palm trees with kasbahs and a kind of oasis retreat.

Tizi n Tichka Pass

As you travel south, you’ll traverse the Tizi n Tichka pass, which stands at a height of 2,200 metres and offers a series of magnificent views where pink sand mixes with white snow like a child’s fairytale dessert. Wrap up warm, though. Those exposed peaks are cold.

Woman holding argan oil nuts before and after roasting in a women's coopeartive in the Atlas Mountains on a Morocco itinerary

The Argan Oil Cooperative

Hands up if you’ve heard of argan oil? Produced from the kernels of the argan tree, you can either drizzle it across bread and pasta or soak it into your skin in the form of beauty products.

Since argan trees are only found in Morocco and parts of southwestern Algeria, it’s a hyper local product and you’ll find women’s cooperatives along the road with various different demonstrations.

Near the Tizi n Tichka pass, we found one where you can see how the kernels are roast and ground into paste (and kids are also allowed to stop and take a turn.)

Woman standing by Egyptian statues at the Atlas Film studios near Ouarzazate in Morocco

Agdz & Ouarzazate

In Agdz, you can see the Kasbah Tamnougalt, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.

In Ouarzazate, check out the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios, where many movies and TV shows have been filmed.

Finally, head on to Skoura.

Our Hotel Recommendations in Skoura:

Luxury: Dar Ahlam
Mid-range: Jardins de Skoura
Budget: Chez Talout

Where to Dine in Skoura:

Mid-range: Ksar El Kabbaba or Jardins de Skoura
Budget: Restaurant Kasbah Tissint

Jardins de Skoura

Aptly named for its gardens, Jardins de Skoura really lives up to the description as an oasis in Morocco. With only a few guests, the boutique rooms highlight local culture and the small restaurant provides an intimate Moroccan dining experience.

Sand dunes at sunset on a Morocco itinerary that travels to Erg Chebbi

Day 3: Skoura to Erg Chebbi

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Merzouga.

We didn’t get the chance but heard that a guided tour of Skoura’s palm grove and the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil is a great way to spend the morning.

The Dades Gorge

Instead, we drove on to the impressive Dades Gorge, the narrow and winding roads surrounded by towering red cliffs, traditional villages and lush green palm groves.

While the outside was warm and balmy, the short hike through the gorge brought tears to our eyes through the wind and cold. Some wise and enterprising souls make a good living selling scarves and wraps along this section. Either bring your own or bring cash!

Alternative option: visit the Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering cliffs that leads to Tinerir.

Playing with kids in Ksar el Khorbat near Tinejdad as part of a Morocco Itinerary

Ksar El Khorbat in Tinejdad

Head into an underground city in Ksar El Khorbat, a traditional city made from earthen walls, with a small museum and a vast complex of housing. Around half the rooms here are still inhabited and the best part of the trip, for us, was when the children played together, both local and foreign.

If you have time, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif also comes highly recommended.

Caravan of camels at sunset in the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga on a one week Morocco itinerary

Late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, where you can explore the sand dunes on camelback. Quadbike or camelride the 150-metre-high Erg Chebbi dunes before heading to your desert camp for a night in the heart of the desert.

Berber men and blonde child looking for fossils in the desert near Merzouga in Morocco

Inside Tip: Fossils in the Desert

Just before you reach the popular section of the dunes, there’s a gravel path that veers from the road to a small, rather battered hut. In here lie fossils and treasures aplenty as this section of dry land used to be beneath the sea.

You can chip out fossils yourself from the rock on this wind-whipped plain with no one but the curator around. We would never have found this spot by ourselves, so it’s a good example of when it’s handy to have a local driver.

Abigail King in a desert camp with table and chairs in the Erg Chebbi dunes in Morocco

Accommodation and Dining in the Dunes at Erg Chebbi

One of the biggest surprises about any Morocco itinerary is the range of accommodation available in the desert. Sure, the photos make it look as though you’re alone on the sifting orange sands. But in reality, you’ll cross the dunes flanked by convoys of tourists on camels to the thrum of quadbikers cutting in front of you.

At sunset, you’ll join around one hundred to two hundred people at the top of the largest dune and from there, you all spill off into the semi-permanent desert camps below.

Camels wait near a row of tents at a desert camp in Erg Chebbi

There’s a huge range of styles available. We stayed in a triple comfort tent, a kind of glamping arrangement with fabric walls but a fully plumbed in shower and toilet.

Dinner was served in a tent with around fifty or so other tourists, a traditional Moroccan meal of soup and tagine.

I’ve heard that there are more luxurious and isolated places, like this luxury Morocco desert camp. So I’ll have to plan to go back one day and test it out!

Relaxed Berber man with camel at the Erg Chebbi dunes in Morocco

Day 4: Merzouga to Ouled Yahia

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Ouled Yahia

It’s a wild, barren drive from the desert to Ouled Yahia, with fudge coloured rocks rising in a mix of smooth and jagged formations all around. It makes the discovery of the oasis at Ouled Yahia all the more striking.

Berber Pizza

But if Berbers know anything, it’s how to make the most of this landscape. And so, between the Djeble Sahro volcanic ridges, we stopped for a Berber pizza.

Daoud produced a kind of flat bread filled with nuts and ground meat which he had picked up from Rissani. And while it looks and sounds rather unpromising, it was absolutely delicious.

You won’t find many rest stops on this stretch of the drive, so I recommend you pick up your own Berber pizza before you set off.

Hotel Recommendations in Ouled Yahia:

Mid-range: Kasbah Hnini

Where to Dine in Ouled Yahia:

Mid-range: Kasbah Hnini Restaurant

Kasbah Hnini

Kasbah Hnini has more grandeur than many of other places to stay on this itinerary, with a stunning view of the palms and mountains of Morocco. Rooms are spacious with clean design, though service is a lot slower away from the city.

Day 5: Ouled Yahia into Saghro

Depending on the time of year, you can either laze by the pool and take in the view of the countryside in Ouled Yahia or walk around the village.

It’s a quiet place with traditional mud-brick buildings. If the stars align, you can visit the market and join local women as they bake bread. Apparently, you can also learn about traditional handicrafts like pottery, weaving, and embroidery from local artisans in Tamegroute or visit the Koranic library, but on our trip, the weather meant we had to reschedule some activities and couldn’t test this ourself.

The Texas of Morocco

Instead, we drove for a day trip into the “Texas of Morocco,” a land with strange natural stone sculptures and a sense of emptiness in the wild. Come spring, the fields blossom with white almond petals in this Saghro region but in late winter, government officials give out food and blankets to those who struggle instead.

It’s a great place for hiking, for serious hikers and young families alike. And Daoud stopped to make us a Berber barbecue, within sight of an elephant shaped rock.

Child waving a scarf in the Saghro region known as the Texas of Morocco

Day 6: Ouled Yahia – Ait Benhaddou- Marrakesh

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

It’s time to head back to Marrakesh, but not without one important stop.

Abigail King standing within UNESCO World Heritage Site Ait Benhaddou as part of a Morocco itinerary

Ait Benhaddou UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ait Benhaddou, a walled village constructed entirely of clay in the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive structure has been featured in various films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones, and is a fabulous location for photography enthusiasts.

Collage of famous movies shot near Ait Benhaddou in Morocco

Then it’s time to cross the Atlas Mountains once again on your journey back to Marrakesh.

Take the last evening in Morocco to wander on the streets of Marrakesh and dine at a traditional restaurant.

Our Hotel Recommendations for Marrakesh:

Luxury: La Mamounia
Mid-range: Riad Alma
Budget: Hotel Gomassine

Where to Dine in Marrakesh:

Luxury: Dar Moha
Mid-range: Cafe Clock
Budget: Chez Yassine

With exquisite interior decor, Riad Alma is a cosy retreat that’s still close to the airport. The rooftop terrace has glimpses of the Marrakesh skyline but it’s the sumptuous sense of style that really stands out here.

Gorgeous golden bedspread in Riad Alma in Marrakesh Morocco

Day 7: Depart Marrakesh

If time allows, take a brief morning walk around the centre of Marrakesh to say goodbye to the beautiful Red City before you head to the airport.

Shadows of a caravan of camels on the sand in Morocco

7-Day Morocco Itinerary 2: Imperial Cities & Desert

The second itinerary takes you to the imperial cities in Morocco: Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, and Rabat. These major cities have earned their imperial title because, at various points in Morocco’s history, they have all served as the country’s capital.

Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca

Accommodation in Casablanca

The best way to start this Morocco itinerary is to catch an early flight and arrive in Casablanca in the morning. This way, you will have plenty of time to discover Morocco’s largest city while sampling a taste of Moroccan culture.

Seeing Casablanca

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, it’s time to hit the streets and delve into the historic Old Medina. Get lost in the winding streets, bustling markets, and traditional Moroccan architecture that make this place stand out. Just one note, though. It’s not quite as romantic as the film Casablanca would have you believe. It’s worth visiting, for sure. Just have your expectations at the right level.

In the afternoon, head to the Hassan II Mosque , one of the largest in the world. Next, explore the Gothic-style Casablanca Cathedral, a remnant of the French colonial era that now serves as a cultural centre. Finally, get lost in the opulence of the Royal Palace of Casablanca, the official residence of the King of Morocco.

As the sun begins to set, take a stroll through the beautiful Parc de la Ligue Arabe. This park in the heart of the city has lush gardens, tranquil fountains, and a serene lake, making it a nice place to unwind after a day full of adventure.

Hotel Recommendations for Casablanca:

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
Mid-range: Hotel Kenzi Tower
Budget: Hotel Central

Where to Dine in Casablanca:

Luxury: La Sqala
Mid-range: Le Riad Restaurant
Budget: Le Petit Rocher

Day 2: Casablanca to Fez

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Fez.

Your first stop on today’s itinerary is Rabat, the capital of Morocco. You’ll see its mix of Berber, Arab and European influences in its architecture, cuisine, and way of life. Explore the magnificent Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum , which houses the tombs of the former king and his sons, and marvel at the grandeur of the minaret.

From there, travel to Meknes and visit the 18th-century Bab Mansour gate and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, the burial place of the powerful sultan who once ruled Morocco.

As you continue your journey towards the Volubilis Archaeological Site , you’ll be transported back in time to ancient Rome. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features well-preserved ruins of public buildings, houses, and a triumphal arch.

Take a break in the small town of Moulay Idriss, where pilgrims visit the tomb of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the first Moroccan dynasty. Later, explore traditional Moroccan arts and crafts at the Dar Jamai Museum in Meknes, which features ceramics, textiles, jewellery and woodwork.

Finish the day in Fez.

Our Hotel Recommendations in Fez:

Luxury: Riad Fes – Relais & Chateaux
Mid-range: Hotel Sahrai
Budget: Riad Verus

Where to Dine in Fez:

Luxury: La Maison Bleue
Mid-range: Nur
Budget: The Ruined Garden

In Fez, the magic lies in exploring the streets, which are colourful, unique and full of people.

This is the perfect place to indulge in local street food or savour a cup of mint tea while immersing yourself in its Moroccan atmosphere.

Fez is known for its impressive architecture and is home to the Fes el-Bali , the oldest and largest medina in the world. Additionally, the stunning Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, recognised by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest university in the world, can also be found here.

Make sure to stop by the Bou Inania Madrasa , a medieval Islamic college with incredible traditional Moroccan architecture. The Dar Batha Museum , with its impressive collection of ceramics, textiles and woodwork, is also a highlight of the city.

If you still have time in the afternoon, head to the Chouara Tannery to witness the traditional process of leather-making and perhaps even pick up some leather goods yourself.

Moroccan landscape with palm trees near the Middle Atlas Mountains

Day 4: Fez to Merzouga

9-hour drive. Accommodation in Merzouga.

From Fez to Merzouga is a long drive but the saving grace is the panoramic views of the Middle Atlas Mountains. The landscape is dominated by cedar forests, with small towns and Berber villages along the way.

And for the grand finale, you reach the golden dunes at Erg Chebbi Dunes. Hop on a camel witness the sunset, and take refuge in a traditional Berber camp at the end of the day.

Our Accommodation Recommendations in Merzouga:

Luxury: Sahara Sky Luxury Camp
Mid-range: Tiziri Camp
Budget: Auberge Les Roches

Where to Dine in Merzouga:

Luxury: Restaurant Kasbah Mohayut
Mid-range: Restaurant Café Fatima
Budget: Restaurant Yasmina

A child follows a Berber guide through the alleyways of UNESCO World Heritage Site Ait Benhaddou

Day 5: Merzouga – Ouarzazate

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Ouarzazate.

Ouarzazate makes for a good base for exploring the Atlas film studios and the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (see the first 7 day Morocco itinerary.)

It’s also close to the Valley of the Roses, which, as you might imagine, has thousands of fragrant rose bushes. Since you will only have half a day to spend in Ouarzazate, the best way to make the most of it is to make a plan in advance.

If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend Ait Ben Haddou. If you really love films, go for the Atlas studios. And if you’re itching for a walk after too long in the car, hike along the Valley of the Roses.

Our Hotel Recommendations in Ouarzazate:

Luxury: La Perle Du Sud
Mid-range: Dar Kamar
Budget: Irocha

Where to Dine in Ouarzazate:

Luxury: Restaurant Dar Loubna
Mid-range: La Kasbah des Sables
Budget: Restaurant Chez Dimitri

The Tichka pass building in the snow in the road back to Marrakech

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Marrakesh

4-hour drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

On your sixth day, cross the Tizi n Tichka Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in North Africa. Stop off at at Argan oil cooperative and then enjoy the afternoon and evening in Marrakesh.

Day 7: Visit Marrakesh and depart.

If you only have a couple of hours before your flight departs, make your way to the bustling Jemaa el-Fna Square. If you have more time, check out the recommendations for Marrakesh higher up in this article.

Berber alphabet poster encountered on a Morocco itinerary

7-Day Morocco Itinerary 3: Northern Morocco

Our third recommended itinerary takes you on a journey through the northern cities of Morocco.

Day 1: Arrive in Tangier

Accommodation in Tangier

Start your time in Tangier in the historic medina, with its winding streets and lovely cafés. You can spend the whole afternoon strolling around the city, and you will still not have have seen everything.

Visit the Kasbah Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich history and culture and climb to the top of the tower for views of the city and the sea beyond.

If you arrive in the morning and have more time, don’t miss the Caves of Hercules, a natural wonder that is said to be the resting place of the legendary hero.

Hotel Recommendations in Tangier:

Luxury: Movenpick Hotel & Casino Malabata Tangier
Mid-range: Grand Hotel Villa de France
Budget: Dar Jameel

Where to Dine in Tangier:

Luxury: El Morocco Club
Mid-range: La Table du Marché by Le Palais Gourmet
Budget: Le Saveur du Poisson

Day 2: Tangier – Chefchaouen

2-hour drive. Accommodation in Chefchaouen.

Your next stop is in the city of Chefchaouen, also known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, in the Rif Mountains. You have a full day to wander through its narrow streets, the blue-painted buildings perfect for an instagram snap.

Check out the impressive 18th-century fortress and Kasbah Museum. For stunning views, head to the Spanish Mosque or hike to the Ras El-Maa Waterfall.

Adventurers can enter into Talassemtane National Park, while foodies can experiment with Moroccan cuisine at Outa El Hammam Square.

Hotel Recommendations in Chefchaouen:

Luxury: Lina Ryad & Spa
Mid-range: Dar Echchaouen
Budget: Hotel Casa Miguel

Where to Dine in Chefchaouen:

Luxury: Lalla Messaouda
Mid-range: Pizzeria Mandala
Budget: Tissemlal

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fez

4.5-hour drive. Accommodation in Fez.

On the third day, visit the ancient Roman city of Volubilis and the Bab Mansour gate in Meknes, where you can also explore the Dar El Makhzen palace and Great Mosque.

A highlight is the splendid city of Fez, with its labyrinthine medina and the Bou Inania Madrasa. The historic Jewish quarter of Mellah is also a fascinating place to explore with its beautiful synagogues, traditional houses, and lively market.

See where to stay in Fez and where to eat in Fez higher in this article.

Day 4: Fez – Rabat

2.5-hour drive. Accommodation in Rabat.

It’s a short drive from Fez to Rabat, where you can fit the main highlights into your Moroccan itinerary.

First on the list is the magnificent Chellah, a ruined medieval fortified city that dates back to the Roman era, with stunning gardens, ancient tombs, and well-preserved architecture.

While here, take a short walk to the Hassan Tower, an iconic symbol of Rabat.

Next, explore Morocco’s heritage at the Oudayas Museum , an institution that showcases traditional crafts, folk art, and historical artefacts from across the country. And don’t miss the chance to bask in the sun and soak in the refreshing waters of Rabat’s beaches, including the popular Plage de Salé and Plage des Nations.

To top it off, visit the grand Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a majestic tribute to the late King Mohammed V and his two sons, with its outstanding marble and bronze work and stained-glass windows.

Hotel Recommendations in Rabat:

Luxury: Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses
Mid-range: Riad Kalaa
Budget: Hotel Majestic

Where to Dine in Rabat:

Luxury: Le Dhow
Mid-range: La Bodega
Budget: Dar Naji

Beautiful Moroccan tea set with glasses of mint tea in Marrakech

Day 5: Rabat to Marrakesh

Travel to Casablanca, a place with Art Deco architecture and an inescapable link to the famous movie of Michael Curtiz.

Stroll along the Corniche, a long promenade that offers the perfect backdrop for people-watching, and immerse yourself in the energy of the Old Medina, with its bustling markets and narrow streets.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hassan II Mosque and Mohammed V Square, a busy place surrounded by colonial-era buildings.

Finally, make your way to Marrakesh, perhaps the most famous city in Morocco.

More Hotel Recommendations in Marrakesh:

Luxury: La Mamounia Marrakesh
Mid-range: Riad El Zohar
Budget: Riad Jonan
Luxury: Le Jardin
Mid-range: Café des Épices
Budget: Al Baraka

Day 6: Day trip or overnight in Essaouira

5-hour round-trip drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

Head to the coast and the old town of Essaouira, with its labyrinthine alleys, markets with pyramids of colour and historic, tiled buildings.

Visit the Skala de la Ville, an impressive fortification with unforgettable views of the Atlantic Ocean.

In the afternoon, explore the sandy beaches of Essaouira and breathe in the invigorating sea air. Watch local fishermen unload their catch and visit the fish market for some of the freshest seafood around.

Where to Eat in Essaouira:

Luxury: Taros
Mid-range: La Table by Madada
Budget: La Fromagerie

Rows of spices on display in the Medina in Marrakesh Morocco

Day 7: Depart from Marrakesh

On your last day in Morocco, you may not have much time to visit Marrakesh. But if all else fails, make sure to fit in a quick walk around the medina and a cup of mint tea before you leave.

Berber driver Daoud from a private tour company in Morocco

Should You Visit Morocco on Your Own or with a Tour Company?

It’s the age old question. Organise your own road trip or travel with a tour company? Obviously, there are pros and cons to both.

Driving around Morocco on your own

I’ve driven around Morocco solo – and loved it. But it was a challenge, for sure.

Hiring your own car allows you to be flexible with your travel plans, explore remote areas and interact with whoever you meet along the way. However, it’s not for the faint for heart.

Make sure you have travel insurance and enough cash, as some places do not accept credit cards. Stock up on paper maps, make sure your paperwork is in order and make sure you know where you can find fuel.

Travelling via public transport

I’ve done this as well, but it’s time consuming and difficult to connect all the dots. If you have plenty of time in Morocco, then it’s a great way to really experience the everyday way of life. But if you only have seven days and are looking for a bit of R&R amid your exploration, then this probably isn’t the best option to choose. And it’s certainly much harder work if you are travelling in Morocco with kids.

Joining a tour group

You’ll find several group tours operating across Morocco as it’s a safe, stable, tourist friendly place. The advantages of joining a group is, of course, instant friends. The disadvantage is the risk of making instant enemies as well ;-) More typically, the compromise means that you have to follow the group in terms of timings and can’t visit smaller hotels and restaurants.

Hiring a driver

This really is the best option for a 7-day Morocco itinerary. Hiring a driver means that you don’t need to worry about all the logistics but you can still stop if you see anything that catches your eye. Your driver can usually be your interpreter as well, meaning you’ll have a much richer experience through talking to locals.

Beautiful reflections in the water of a Moroccan landscape

FAQs about travel in Morocco

When is the best time to visit morocco.

Morocco has a surprisingly seasonal climate; it’s certainly not hot all the time. The most comfortable times to visit are in the spring or autumn months as the summer can be ferociously hot and the winter can cause the mountain passes to close due to snow.

How many days do you need in Morocco?

It’s possible to enjoy a long weekend in Marrakesh or on the coast but if you want to see anything of the country then you’ll need at least a week. With two weeks, you can obviously see a lot more but it’s possible to see the desert, Marrakesh and some beautiful places with any one of these 7 day Morocco itineraries.

Is Morocco safe with kids?

Yes, Morocco is safe with kids and a great place for a family holiday. But I understand the hesitation. You do need to be careful with drinking water and very rural parts can be very far from a hospital. You’ll also likely need travel vaccinations, which may not be recommended for children under two. As ever, check with a qualified healthcare professional well in advance.

What do women need to wear in Morocco?

Morocco is a reasonably conservative, muslim country so it’s a good idea for both men and women to wear clothes that reach down to cover wrists and ankles. This article on what to wear in Jordan provides helpful advice that applies to Morocco as well.

That said, women don’t need to cover their hair and, particularly in the cities, you’ll find young women wearing skintight fashion with their locks flowing.

However, a headscarf is extremely useful to travel with to protect against the wind and sand and if you do have long hair, it can really help it from thrashing in your face. Check out my video on wearing a headscarf in Morocco here.

Where can I find out more about Morocco?

We have articles on driving in Morocco and why the beautiful Ouirgane valley in Morocco deserves your time .

In my opinion, Morocco is one of the best places to visit in Africa so check back regularly to find more articles. Or, join our newsletter to be updated right away.

Best Books about Morocco – 10 Great Novels set in Morocco

If you’re wondering what are the best books about Morocco or what are the best books to discover Moroccan culture, look no further. In this list, you’ll discover some of the best novels set in Morocco…

One of the realities of travel is long train rides and bus rides which will test both your bladder and your patience from time to time. So grab a book and settle in, we’re heading off to Morocco .

One of the best ways to visit a country (besides visiting it) is to plow into the literature it’s given birth to…and as I’ve been well known to have a book in my hands at all times for the last couple of decades…

I decided to gather together the best gems I found while living in and reading about Morocco.

Here are some of the best books about Morocco.

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Hope and other dangerous pursuits – Laila Lalami

Told from the point of view of a group of survivors of an illegal attempt to cross the Strait of Gibraltar and into Spain via rubber lifeboat. Some escaped into Spain, and some did not.

This takes four of them and tells you of their lives before the crossing; what was it that made them risk their lives to move into an unknown society, where it was imagined all would be better?

Told in bare-bones stripped-down storytelling prose, it’s just as relevant today as it was a decade ago, a penetrating examination of immigration and perception.

Best Books about Morocco - 10 Great Novels set in Morocco

2. The voices of Marrakech – Elias Canetti

A strange, beautiful delight of a novelette. Writing filled to the brim with a piercing curiosity, sharp observations, insights, and meditations on ‘everyday’ encounters in Marrakesh during this Nobel Prize laureate’s several week visit.

A collection of short stories I was sad to leave when I’d finished.

Elias has one of the most human, elegant and non-pretentious writing voices I’ve encountered, and as you journey with him briefly through the alleyways, streets, souks, shrines, beggars, merchants and inhabitants of Marrakesh you’ll find a marvelous storyteller laying bare shreds of the city’s soul as well as his own.

3. Naked lunch – William Burroughs

I hesitated to put this book on the list, as it’s such a depraved tangle of phrases, paragraphs, characters, and emotions that once you enter it you’ll emerge later as from a twisted labyrinth, blinking with shock to see the sun still shining.

Though written while the author was living in Tangier , there’s not much storyline to speak of; it’s more of an onslaught of experimental and shocking writing meant to convey a spirit of paranoia, aggression, disturbing sexuality of the pedophile variety, and decadent hard drug use… plenty of which have all existed in the city at one time or another.

The Tangier that Burroughs buried like a hastily rotting corpse in this book doesn’t exist these days, more likely most of it existed only in his mind, but you can still smell the rank fear, urine, paranoia, and aggression that rears its fangs here in some streets on the right, or wrong night.

Reading Tip: The Most Beautiful Places in Morocco in Pictures

4. The sheltering sky – Paul Bowles

A masterpiece of tense, sparse, clean and beautiful writing.

Bowles lived in Morocco for the greater portion of his life, and his accounts of the country, its politics, cultural nuances, and way of life, particularly when a Westerner is immersed in and confronted by its unfamiliarity, are fascinating and illuminating.

This is a fictional account set in the late forties about a husband, wife, and one of their acquaintances following an impulse for exploration that leads to disaster and downfall.

I won’t spoil the arc, but like some of Bowles’ other pieces, it covers the fierce terror and exhilaration of traveling deep into a ‘wild’ country without a safety net, how it can erode sanity and take the traveler much further into realms they never imagined encountering.

5. For bread alone – Mohamed Choukri

Classic. A haunting biographical look through the eyes of an extremely impoverished Moroccan life in Tangier .

Told in simple, striking language describing truths with a direct force that lingers in your mind. This book will open your eyes to some of the harsh realities of life in the Moroccan underclass, in any developing country.

6. A street in Marrakech – Elizabeth Warnock Fernea

Reads like a slightly expanded personal journal told in almost academic prose, a consuming attention to detail which slowly unveils great complexity, the kind of writing which books aren’t written in anymore.

An anthropologist couple moves into a house in the old medina, or ancient city of Marrakech for a year with their two young children, circa 1972.

What follows is a hyper-realistic and intriguing account of the slow integration into everyday life, it’s various social tests, struggles, miscommunications, celebrations, stubbornness, and surprise.

An illuminating account, all the more so as it provides a unique if a brief glimpse into the society of Moroccan women.

Reading Tip: The Complete City Guide to Marrakech, Morocco’s Red City

7. The spider’s house – Paul Bowles

Set in Fez in 1954 during Morocco’s nationalist uprising, published in 1955, and 1956 was the year Morocco declared independence from the French protectorate.

Yes, Bowles is on here twice, covering some of the same themes, yet the tale told in The Spider’s House is one which rings with much more prescience and relevance today, not to mention it’s timing in a thread of events.

Told from the point of a view of a devout Moslem boy, an American expat who lived in and loves North Africa of the past, and an American tourist who exemplifies all the cliche’s you can think of.

It’s a clash of ideologies in a city of escalating violence where each of the characters begin to think differently. Oddly reminiscent of the current streams of conflict between East and West today.

8. Gravity according to birds – Leo Skala

Sure, I’m biased, I wrote it. This is a magical realistic novel based on my own experiences of first arriving in Tanger, planning to stay for a single day with only a hundred dollars to my name, and somehow ending up hitchhiking through the entire country and living in Tanger for several years.

To view the printings and see what other readers have said about it, visit Take High Ground .

9. The sacred night – Tahar Ben Jelloun

Sequel to The Sand Child, a hallucinatory masterpiece of surreal and terrifying secrets, guilt, and potent varieties of shame. You meet Zahra, a young Moroccan woman discovering womanhood.

Zahra had been born the eighth of eight daughters, endured several ‘circumcision’ rituals and passed off as a boy until her father’s death on the 27th Night of Ramadan, the Sacred Night, the Night of Destiny, just after he has for the first time acknowledged his daughter as just that.

A story of doomed and bizarre destinies, how they entangle, and what each member clings to in order to cope with the situation.

10. The caliph’s house – Tahir Shah

Tahir Shah decides to move his wife and three children from their dreary life in London into an ancient, ruined and haunted mansion on the outskirt slums of Casablanca . Dar Kalifa, the Caliph’s House.

It’s a jaunty, often funny tale, hinging around three Moroccan guardians who’ve come ‘in some sort of medieval transaction’ with the house, the rigors of remodelling amidst accepted social corruption, the belief that there is a horde of Djinn, or malicious evil spirits living in Dar Kalifa, and Shah’s ironic position of being essentially a Western foreigner with a rationalist mindset raised in England, though he is at the same time, in fact, a descendant of the Prophet Mohammed through his Afghan family line.

Supremely readable with sometimes awkward writing, yet an absolutely wonderful tale highlighting a clash and reconciliation of cultures in a magical light.

Reading Tip: The 11 most Inspiring Travel Novels

Out of Africa – Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen)

Bonus. Has nothing to with Morocco whatsoever, but I figured while we were in the general neighborhood of Africa we may as well pay a visit to Baronness Blixen on her coffee plantation in Kenya.

Blixen wrote this in the 1930s under the pseudonym Isak Dinesen to disguise her gender, and many readers were surprised to learn she was a woman.

This is her account of owning and working a coffee plantation for ten years with the local tribesman called the Kikuyu in the hills outside of Nairobi.

Such a surprising, gentle, fascinating tale which you’ll find yourself strangely enriched by as she lays out the hopes, dreams, rhythms, wonders, sadnesses, realities, and rugged beauties of this decade.

Justine – Lawrence Durell

Bonus again! This time we’re off to Alexandria, Egypt in the 1930’s in the first installment of the Alexandria Quartet.

A four-book series told during the same timeline around a set cast of characters, each book containing one of their voices, viewings, and versions of the same set of events.

A fascinating meditation on art and the varieties of love, despair, regrets, and hilarities of life told in sleekly muscular prose, studded with beautiful and terrible visions.

More MOROCCO TRAVEL Resources:

What you need to know before you go: 23 Travel Tips for Morocco
Is Morocco Safe? Safety Guide to Morocco
How to avoid the 12 most common scams in Morocco
See the best of Morocco by following these 3 great travel itineraries
Visit these beautiful 17 places in Morocco
Tips for traveling to Morocco during Ramadan
Morocco City Guides: Fez , Tangier , Essaouira , Chefchaouen , Rabat , Meknes , Marrakech , Casablanca , Agadir
The best daytrips from Marrakech
Fun things to do in the Sahara: how to plan a desert trip to Merzouga
The Complete Guide to Imlil and Hiking Mount Toubkal
Everything you need to know about visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Rock climbing and other fun things to do in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir
How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen
A guide to visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Surfing in Morocco – The best surfing spots in Morocco
How to visit Paradise Valley in Agadir
What to wear in Morocco: Complete packing list for Morocco
Morocco photography tips: How to take portraits of people in Morocco
Extend your stay in Morocco using one of these 3 ways to renew your Morocco visa
Useful tips on how to take the ferry from Tangier to Spain
Books about Morocco: 10 Great Novels set in Morocco

About the author

This list of best books set in Morocco was written by Leo Skala. Leo is a multidisciplinary artist and traveler whose primary focus is the Word. Written word, oral storytelling, musical phrases, chants, and djembe drumbeats.

Author of a book of poems and a novel, if he’s not out hiking in nature, doing yoga, or making music he may be found writing away on one project or another, studying a language, cozied up between the pages of a book, dancing or setting up a typewriter in a public street to write impromptu poems for passing strangers.

For awesome stories about his travels around the world, head over to his blog The Sounding Lines.

Any books about Morocco you recommend? Let us know in the comments below!

Best Books to Read before Traveling to Morocco

Before visiting Morocco there are some must read books that will enhance your travel experience. From guide books to fiction and non fiction taking hold of a vacation whether you are traveling on budget or a luxury private tour is easily done. It is also important to have a good guide book to inform and orient you when taking a Morocco tour. With a wide range of guide books available the ones that come out on top are the Rough Guide to Morocco and Lonely Planet Morocco. Both serve as a reliable and practical introduction to the history of Morocco along with its urban and rural life. Both guide books also offer travelers information about Morocco’s souks, historic sites, best places to eat and shopping options. There are a growing number of guide books to Morocco and local city guides as well however Rough Guide and Lonely Planet are generally reckoned to be the best and most up to date available on the market.

The best cultural and historical introduction to Morocco with the emphasis on joie de vivre and an appreciation of Morocco’s Malakite spiritual rite of Islam and the way it influences daily life, is Barnaby Rogerson’s Cadagon Guide . It captures the essence of locations both urban and rural and relates their history and cultural value. It is more of an introduction to Morocco than a simple guide but it is the best account of the adventure and excitement to be had from north to south.

There are also a number of authors who have related their impressions of Morocco as it used to be which are useful for understanding Morocco and its history in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Barnaby Rogerson’s publishing house Eland also publishes a number of anthologies of writers on Morocco such as Marrakech the Red City , which contains George Orwell’s impressions of Marrakech, amongst other well known writers.

Eland also publishes important authors on Morocco which would otherwise be out of print including The Lords of the Atlas by Gavin Maxwell which is an account of feudal Morocco from before the First World War to Morocco’s independence in 1956 and the rule of Thami El Glaoui and his family during the French Protectorate. Moroccans remain ambivalent about the Glaoui’s role but it is an important part of Morocco’s history as Churchill and Roosevelt and many other personalities came to Morocco before and after the Second World War.

The book which Lords of the Atlas is said to have partly relied on is Morocco That Was by Walter Thomas correspondent for the Times in Tangier relates many amusing stories of intrigue in the court of Sultan Abdelaziz in the 1890’s and early 1900’s.

In Morocco written by the American novelist Edith Wharton published in 1920 tells of her visit to Morocco at the invitation of the Resident General of the French administration in Morocco the famous General Hubert Lyautey in 1917. Edith Wharton had been decorated by France for her work with refugees during World War 1 and her book is said to be the first travel guide of Morocco. There are vivid encounters with the wild Berber tribesmen in the Medina of Marrakech and in the houses of the gentry with their restricted role for women in the household and harems of Rabat and Fez. She is sometimes criticized for being too pro French but in truth the colonial administration did much for Morocco under Lyautey, particularly with regards to preservation of Morocco’s historic buildings, finding and saving the Saadian tombs in Marrakech for instance.

Also published by Eland is A Year in Morocco by Peter Mayne which recounts the author’s experiences as he interacts with the local and foreign inhabitants of Marrakech and is useful for understanding some of the foibles, customs and pitfalls for trying to set up house in Marrakech.

The American novelist Paul Bowles spent 52 years in Tangiers and he writes about the city he loved in his collection of travel writing Travels published by Sort Of Books. His novels and short stories also include Morocco often and he played an important role in recording Berber tribal music which is now preserved in the US Library of Congress. A good description of Tangier from 1962 to 1979, which features Bowles and his friends and the Beat generation is The Tangier Diaries by John Hopkins.

The novelist Tahir Shah wrote The Caliph’s House about moving to Casablanca and the challenges he and his family faced in renovating a derelict palace infested with Jinns (Moroccan evil spirits) with whom he has frequent encounters. In his other novels he blends his Afghan heritage and knowledge of the east of his forefathers and their long experience of Morocco to produce an exciting and dramatic read. His infectious enthusiasm for Morocco and Casablanca is also evidenced by frequent travel articles in the international press.

Laila Lahlimi is a Moroccan novelist who published her novel Sacred Son in English in America, being the first Moroccan to do so. It provides an interesting view of different generational attitudes and clashes in today’s Morocco.

A good introduction to the finer points of the does and don’ts of Moroccan society is Culture Shock by Orin Hargraves. Different attitudes to timing and the primacy of family life and the necessary white lie figure prominently.

Moroccans speak their own dialect, darija in everyday life and the best way to really connect with Moroccans is to learn some greetings and phrases in their dialect. Lonely Planet’s excellent little phrasebook Moroccan Arabic with useful words and phrases is an essential companion on your Moroccan tour.

A List – Best Books to Read Before Traveling to Morocco

Morocco That Was – By Water Harris
Morocco Since 1830 – By C.R. Pennell
Lords of the Atlas: The Rise and Fall of the House of Glaoua – By Gavin Maxwell
The Conquest of Morocco – By Douglass Porch

FICTION & NON- FICTION

Culture & Customs in Morocco – By Raphael Njoku
In Arabian Nights: A Caravan of Moroccan Dreams – By Tahir Shah
The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca – By Tahir Shah
The Spiders House – By Paul Bowles
The Sheltering Sky – By Paul Bowles (Book & Film)
Let It Come Down – By Paul Bowles
The Last Storytellers: Tales from the Heart of Morocco – By Richard Hamilton
Their Heads are Green & Their Hands are Blue – By Paul Bowles
Dreams of Trespass: Tales of A Harem – By Fatima Mernissi
Berber Odes: Poetry from the Mountains of Morocco – By Michael Peyron
The Hamadsha: A Studio of Moroccan Ethnopsychiatry
A House in Fes – By Susannah Clarke

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Morocco Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Traditional sandstone buildings along the ridge of a slope in beautiful Morocco

Chaotic. Colorful. Eye-opening. Visiting Morocco is an intense experience. My time there was challenging, but it was also a reminder that the best part of travel is embracing the uncomfortable.

Once part of the Carthaginian Empire, the first independent Moroccan state emerged around 225 BCE as the Berber kingdom of Mauretania. That kingdom eventually became a Roman province, though, by the 7th century CE, Muslim conquest of North Africa was in full swing. A French Protectorate from 1912-1956, Morocco gained its independence in 1956 and has been an independent state ever since.

I loved my time in Morocco. I gorged on couscous, drank my body weight in mint tea, hiked, and absorbed the hectic sights and sounds of the country.

From the high Atlas Mountains to the desert to the coasts, Morocco is a marvelous country that mesmerizes. True, the sprawling and disorderly medinas can test your patience, but they reward your senses each and every visit.

Use this Morocco travel guide to plan your trip, see the best the country has to offer, save money, and avoid the common pitfalls that waylay unsuspecting travelers!

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Morocco

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in morocco.

Camels strolling along the huge, golden dunes in beautiful Morocco on a bright, sunny day in the desert

1. Explore Marrakesh

Spend some time in the Djemaa el-Fna, where you can find exotic street performers, tattoo artists, musicians, and chefs. After that, wander around the medina, explore the souks, eat in the market, see the old city, and enjoy Morocco’s most international city. Marrakesh has it all.

2. Sleep in the Sahara Desert

The Sahara is vast, empty, and spectacular. Spending the night in a simple tent on the dunes was my favorite activity while in the country and I highly recommend you try it too. The stars go on forever and there’s no light pollution to block them out. (Skip the camel ride, though!)

3. Explore the blue streets of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a small city located in the middle of the Rif Mountains. It is very relaxed, offers reasonable accommodations, and is visually stunning as the streets and buildings are all painted a vibrant sky blue (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram). It’s a great place to wander, shop, and sip mint tea.

4. Visit Fez

This old and powerful city is one of the best places in the country. Its narrow streets are filled with wonderful aromas, mosques, craft shops, and crowds upon crowds of people. Though Fez can be a bit overwhelming, once you get used to the pace of the city, it’s simply magical.

5. Relax in a traditional hammam

A hammam is a steam bath popular in North Africa. They are usually found near mosques or toiletry shops and can be upscale or public (traditional). Visit a no-frills traditional bath for an authentic and enlightening experience. Public hammams cost about 10 MAD, while hotel hammams cost 300-500 MAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Morocco

1. get lost in the medinas.

The medinas are the historic hearts of each city in Morocco, part residential area, part shopping center, part food market. Shops, restaurants, markets, and homes all line the twisting and turning streets in buildings seemingly too close together and too old to stay up much longer. As someone who loves to get lost, the medinas were heaven. Word of caution: The Fez Medina is a bit unsafe, so do not go too far off the beaten path. Stick to streets with lots of people or hire a guide to show you around.

2. Trek the High Atlas

The rugged and beautiful Atlas Mountains stretch over 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles), from the West Coast of Morocco all the way to Tunisia. This mountain range is home to Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s tallest peak at 13,671 feet. You can hike all year round, but the best time is from April to May. The Toubkal Circuit (7 days) and M’Goun Traverse (3 days) are some of the more popular treks.

3. Trek through the Todra Gorge

Located near Tinerhir in the High Atlas Mountains, this gorge is one of the most recognized in the world and has become very popular with travelers looking to hike the canyon. It’s a challenging hike and takes around 4 hours but if you’re looking for something truly different and outdoorsy in Morocco, don’t miss out on this. For an even more unique experience, skip the day trip and stay overnight in the nearby village of Ait Baha.

4. Visit the Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque, located in Casablanca, is a huge mosque with a minaret that stands 60 stories. It’s the second-largest mosque in Africa and the seventh-largest in the world. The walls are made of marble and the roof is retractable (the minaret also has a laser that points to Mecca at night). It took thousands of Moroccan artists a total of five years to build this detailed architectural masterpiece. Its mosaics, plaster moldings, marble and stone columns and floors, and wood ceilings are utterly impressive. It is big enough for 105,000 worshipers! Combined entry to the mosque and museum is 140 MAD.

5. Learn to cook traditional Moroccan food

Traditional Moroccan food is a blend of Berber, Arabic, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and French cuisine. Many hotels and guesthouses offer cooking classes in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez. You can buy fresh produce from the local market and then make a traditional dish. Café Clock offers some of the best classes. With locations in Marrakesh, Chefchaouen, and Fez, this Western-influenced café is famous for its gigantic and delicious camel burger (which tastes a lot like spicy shawarma).

6. Wander thru Kasbah les Oudaias

Located in Rabat, this 12th-century Kasbah is found in the oldest part of the city. The citadel, with its narrow streets of white houses, and a great place to wander around and take some pictures. Its elevation offers beautiful views of the river and ocean.

7. Go surfing

Morocco is extremely popular among surfers. The best time to go is during the winter months when the waves are bigger and more consistent, and the air and water temperature is mild. Head to Taghazout, the most popular surf town, to catch some of the best surf in the country. A week-long stay at a surf camp, including lessons, equipment, accommodation, and airport transfer costs around 5,000 MAD.

8. Visit Tangier

This major city in northern Morocco is located on the North African coast at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. The city’s location means that many civilizations and cultures have left their mark on Tangiers since at least the 10th century BCE. From 1924-1956, Tangier was an international zone separate from Morocco, and thus became a destination for many European and American diplomats, businessmen, writers, and spies during this time. Don’t miss the Grand Mosque, the Kasbah, and strolling down the beach promenade.

9. See Atlas Studios

Named for its proximity to the Atlas Mountains, Atlas Film Studios in the city of Ouarzazate is the largest film studio in the world, covering more than 322,000 sq ft of the desert. Many big films have been shot here including: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Hanna (2011), and part of the TV series Game of Thrones . Be sure to visit the nearby Ksar of Aït Benhaddou kasbah too! It plays into what people think a ksar (fortified village) should look like. I enjoyed roaming the streets and climbing to the top for the view.

10. See the Ancient City of Volubilis

A major trading center and the southernmost settlement during Roman times, Volubilis is one of the best-preserved (and least frequented) such ruins in the world. It originally dates to the 3rd century BCE and became the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mauretania, growing even more during Roman rule. I found it empty of tourists, not built up, and open in a way that lets you see the structures up close without being behind ten feet of barriers and jostled by crowds. Most of the city is still unexcavated so the site has a very “Indiana Jones” feel to it. I’ve been to a lot of Roman ruins in my travels, but this one is my favorite. Admission is 70 MAD.

11. Enjoy the Meknes Medina

Pleasantly stroll the Medina in Meknes without being pestered. Located in Central Morocco, this authentic market sells handicrafts made in Meknes such as embroidery and Meknes “Damascene” ironwork. If the Medinas of Fez and Marrakesh overwhelm you, this is the place to go.

12. Explore Essaouira

Essaouira is located a few hours from Marrakesh on the Atlantic coast and is a popular beach destination for tourists, especially Brits. I loved the relaxed atmosphere of the city, the lack of pushy touts, the sea air, and all the fresh fish. Be sure to visit the wonderful fish market in town, where all the small fishermen sell their day’s catch. Afterward, check out the small fish stalls nearby in the main square where you can enjoy fresh, grilled seafood for cheap.

For more information on specific destinations in Morocco, check out these guides:

Fez Travel Guide
Marrakesh Travel Guide

Morocco Travel Costs

A sea-side view along a small village near the beach in sunny Morocco

Accommodation – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost between 80-110 MAD per night in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez, and about 50-60 MAD in smaller places. Private rooms in hostels cost around 260-380 MAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotels in Marrakesh and Fez cost around 270-410 MAD per night for a double room. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, free breakfast, and sometimes even an outdoor pool.

Wild camping is legal in Morocco for those traveling with a tent. Locals usually don’t like people camping on or near their property, however, so only take advantage of this if you’re not going to disturb anyone. Don’t be surprised if nomads or police stop by to check on you.

Food – Moroccan cuisine is a colorful, flavorful mix of Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean traditions with a pinch of French and sub-Saharan cuisine to round things out. It is a land of spices, so expect flavorful meals at every turn (the traditional ras el hanout spice mix is composed of 27 different spices). Beef, goat, and lamb are some of the most common meats, usually eaten with couscous. Fish like mackerel and anchovy are also quite common, owing to the country’s location on the coast. Be sure to try pastilla , a pastry filled with meat or seafood.

Eating in Morocco can be extremely cheap, especially if you eat at the many markets. A pot of mint tea costs between 8-10 MAD. Indulge in local food, including the popular tagine , a meat and vegetables dish for about 35-55 MAD. Sandwiches, pizza, and most other dishes range between 30-50 MAD.

A fish dish in coastal cities like Essaouira costs about 100-150 MAD while a lobster is about 350-400 MAD. Seafood dinners come with drinks, salad, and bread.

For more touristy or Western restaurants, expect to spend at least 150 MAD or more per main dish.

Beer and wine cost around 70 MAD for a drink (however, there aren’t that many opportunities to drink in Morocco, so I wouldn’t factor it much into your budget).

There’s no need to buy groceries here as the food is cheap and it’s far easier to eat out! But if you do, expect to pay 200 MAD per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Morocco Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget expect to spend around 285 MAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating at market stalls and cooking some meals, limiting your drinking (which is very easy to do here), using local transportation to get around, and sticking to free and cheap activities like free walking tours and public hammam visits.

On a mid-range budget of 525 MAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, take the train between cities, and do more paid tours and activities like museum visits and camping in the Sahara.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,120 MAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy a few drinks, fly between cities or hire a driver, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MAD.

Morocco Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t cost a lot of money to travel Morocco — though it’s also easy to splash out here if you want. Here are my tips for saving money in Morocco:

Eat from street stalls – It’s extremely easy to eat cheaply in Morocco. While restaurant meals typically cost as little as 30 MAD, street food is even cheaper. For just a few dollars, you can indulge in delicious kebabs, sausages, barbecued corn on the cob, roasted chicken, huge sandwiches, and more. Stick to eating at the local markets in the medina to spend very little money on food.
Negotiate your cab fare – Be sure to negotiate a price before you get into the taxi. There aren’t set prices and you need to bargain hard. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for price estimates so you don’t get ripped off.
Avoid faux guides – Faux guides (or false guides) linger in the medinas and offer you tour services. Be forceful in saying no while walking away. They are persistent but eventually give up if you keep walking.
Be careful of thieves – Petty theft, mostly involving wallets, watches, and cameras, is prevalent in the crowded medinas around the country. Stay alert and keep your valuables out of sight.
Avoid drinking – Even though drinking is frowned upon in the country, you can still find plenty of places that allow you to drink. They are overpriced (since alcohol is not common here) and the drinks aren’t that good. Avoid drinking during your visit, save money, and align yourself closer to local norms.
Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Staying with a local is the best way to get a feel for the country and learn some insider tips in the process.
Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink but you should bring a reusable water bottle with a filter just in case. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Morocco

Looking for a place to rest your head in Morocco? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Morocco for your next visit:

Riad Dia (Marrakesh)
Riad Jennah Rouge (Marrakesh)
Kasbah Red Castle Hostel (Marrakesh)
Funky Fes (Fez)
Aline Hostel (Chefchaouen)
The Chill Art (Essaouira)
Atlantic Hostel (Essaouira)
Baytalice (Tangiers)

How to Get Around Morocco

Public transportation – Public transportation can be hit or miss in Morocco. The bigger cities, like Marrakesh and Casablanca, have public bus services, but the buses are old and overcrowded and the routes are hard to figure out.

Instead, most people use petits taxis to get around town. These are small vehicles that can hold up to three people and are prevalent all over the country. They’re very cheap, although there may be a surcharge after 8pm. To ensure you get a fair fare, negotiate your price upfront.

Metered taxis are also available in bigger cities like Marrakesh. Fares start around 7 MAD and then they charge 4 MAD per kilometer.

Grand taxis – Grand taxis are shared taxis that can carry up to six passengers and are used to go longer distances between neighboring towns/cities. They won’t leave until the taxi is full but generally wait times aren’t so bad. You can locate one near just about any taxi stand or bus/train station. If you have a lot of luggage, you may have to pay extra. You should arrange your fare ahead of time.

Bus – Intercity buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around Morocco, especially compared to other methods of transportation. The four most popular operators are:

SATAS (regional)
Ghazala (regional)

CTM and Supratours are the most reliable and have comfortable buses with air conditioning. You can book your tickets online or simply show up at the bus station. The websites aren’t terribly reliable or efficient to use. A 4-hour bus ride from Marrakesh to Casablanca is about 75-110 MAD, while a 6.5-hour ride from Marrakesh to Tangier is 260-275 MAD. Casablanca to Fez is 95-120 MAD.

Train – Morocco’s national rail network is operated by ONCF and services some of the country’s major cities like Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, and Fez. The trains are comfortable and they’re usually on time, but disruptions do occasionally happen. There is now a high-speed rail running between Casablanca to Fez too. You can look up schedules and prices on ONCF .

The 2.5-hour train trip from Marrakesh to Casablanca costs about 50 MAD, while the 4.5-hour journey from Marrakesh to Rabat starts around 150-180 MAD. Traveling from Casablanca to Fez takes 4 hours and is 50-120 MAD. The journey from Fez to Marrakesh takes 6.5 hours and costs 195 MAD.

Flying – Royal Air Maroc is the main domestic airline, and they sometimes have good sales. An hour flight from Marrakesh to Casablanca starts at around 870 MAD, while a one-hour flight from Marrakesh to Fez starts at 520 MAD.

Car rental – Car rental isn’t typically recommended in Morocco. Drivers are aggressive and accident rates are high! But if you want to venture off the beaten path, it’s a good way to go. You can find rentals starting from 200 MAD per day (sometimes cheaper).

When to Go to Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is during the country’s shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to November. The temperatures are nice and warm during this time and there is less tourist traffic. (However, this changes if you plan on spending most of your time surfing the coast or hiking the Atlas Mountains.)

Summer lasts from June to August, and it can be ridiculously hot all over the country during this time — especially the further south you go (including in Marrakesh and Fez). A lot of people head to the coast to enjoy places like Tangier, Rabat, and Essaouira. Expect highs above 35°C (95°F).

Winters (December-February) are mild, but it can get quite cold in the evenings. Temperatures drop as low as -3°C (27°F) in Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains receive heavy snowfall. Winters in the north and along the coast are very wet. Overall, it’s not a great time to be here.

The best time to go hiking in the Atlas Mountains is from April to May (spring) and September to October (fall). It’s mild during these months and there’s little risk of severe weather. Summer is the best time to enjoy the coast, where temperatures go as high as 27°C (80°F) but the ocean breeze offers plenty of relief.

How to Stay Safe in Morocco

Overall, Morocco is a safe destination but traveling here requires vigilance. You’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger in Morocco, but the petty crime and harassment require you to stay on guard — more so than in other countries.

Women traveling alone attract a lot of attention here and the chances of being followed and possibly groped are high. This is a particular problem in crowded medinas. Always be watchful and trust your gut. Do not bring valuables with you and keep your belongings tight to your body. Dress conservatively and avoid wearing a lot of jewelry.

Walking alone at night is generally not a good idea in the cities. If you’re unsure about an area, ask the hotel staff which areas are safe. If you need a taxi, always arrange the price in advance to avoid getting ripped off.

When out and about, locals might invite you into their shops or offer to guide you around. Always politely but firmly decline otherwise you might end up getting ripped off.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 19 for assistance (112 for mobile phones).

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Morocco, check out this post that answers frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Morocco Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Morocco Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Morocco and continue planning your trip:

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

Is Morocco Safe? 11 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

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THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

5 Luxe Hotels in Casablanca, Morocco

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/hotels-in-casablanca-morocco

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca

From the Four Seasons to Hôtel Le Doge, the best hotels in Casablanca, Morocco capture the city’s romantic history and cosmopolitan vibe. Below are five of our favorite choices, plus a few insider tips and answers to Casablanca hotel FAQs.

Connect with a Fora Advisor for expert travel suggestions tailored to your preferences — plus answers to all your questions (like the best time to visit Morocco ). Plus, when you book with a Fora Advisor, they’ll be able to unlock VIP perks at the top Casablanca hotels.

Why stay in Casablanca?

Put simply, most flights from the Americas arrive here. It’s typical for a Morocco itinerary to either start or end with a night in the city.

Casablanca is also Morocco’s economic hub, and a lot of business-related travel is directed here. The city doesn’t have quite the same star power as Marrakech or Fes, for instance (see our guide to Morocco’s best places to visit ). But it’s still an enjoyable city to experience.

Casablanca is Morocco at its most contemporary, yet reminders of its storied past are present nearly everywhere you look. The blend makes Casablanca worthy of at least a day or two of exploring. Plus, Casablanca is home to an excellent international dining scene.

5 of the best Casablanca hotels

Read on for a quick breakdown of a few of our favorite hotels in Casablanca, Morocco. But keep in mind that there are plenty more options if these five don’t strike your fancy. A Fora Advisor will point you in the right direction.

If you’re looking for more hotels in Morocco or help planning the rest of your trip, a Fora Advisor can help you there, too.

1. Royal Mansour Casablanca: an incredible embodiment of 1950s Art Deco

One of the most exciting hotel openings in 2024 in Casablanca is the Royal Mansour Casablanca. Its sister property is in Marrakech ( Royal Mansour Marrakech ) and is one of the top luxury properties in all of Morocco.

The property opened in April 2024, and Royal Mansour Casablanca is a masterclass in bringing the 1950s Art Deco movement into 21st-century Morocco. The theme and decor alone make this property worth visiting, but what makes this hotel special is its ability to pivot Casablanca from a stopover spot to a destination in itself. The high-rise hotel boasts a fabulous spa, a foodie’s haven with fine eateries (including a sushi bar and Michelin-Starred-chef-led French restaurant) and beautiful guestrooms and suites.

2. Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca: a family-friendly choice on the beach

Perfect for a relaxing stopover before or after exploring the rest of Morocco, Four Seasons’ Casablanca hotel is favored by families and corporate travelers alike. The property offers immediate access to a popular beach and its neighboring promenade, complete with local boutiques, fun eateries and big-name shops.

As for the hotel itself, expect nothing short of the brand’s impeccable reputation: spacious rooms (the best choices have ocean views), great dining options and hospitality. The Four Seasons in Casablanca was our second-most-booked hotel in Morocco last year for a reason. Plus, guests can enjoy complimentary access to the hotel’s onsite steam room and plunge pool — it’s a perfect way to recover from jet lag.

(One thing to note: because of its proximity to the mosque, this is a dry hotel. The concierge will happily be able to give you local recommendations for nearby bars if you are in the mood to drink.)

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca:

When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

(If you’re also looking for the best hotels in Marrakech , Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca has an excellent sister property there.)

3. Hyatt Regency Casablanca: a great all-around choice near many of the city’s top landmarks

Image courtesy of Hyatt Regency Casablanca

Another one of our most-booked hotels in Morocco , Hyatt Regency Casablanca is a solid choice for any traveler seeking to stay near many of the city’s coolest sights. For instance, the Old Medina, Central Market, Hassan II Mosque — taller structures are prohibited, so the height contrast with nearby buildings is eye-catching — Mohammed V Square and many more landmarks are either within immediate walking distance or only a short drive away.

Accommodations range from comfy standard rooms with plush furnishings and classy decor to lavish, top-level suites decked out in Art Deco fashion, much like the surrounding neighborhood. There’s also an updated fitness center, an outdoor pool and accompanying café. And guests can enjoy a Moroccan spa (complete with a hammam) with local treatments and even an onsite nightclub that’s open Wednesday nights through early Saturday mornings.

Fora Perks at Hyatt Regency Casablanca:

Hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

4. Kenzi Tower Hotel: one of the best hotels in Casablanca, Morocco for luxe shoppers

Kenzi Tower Hotel makes up one half of the Casablanca Twin Center, a fixture in the ritziest part of the city. It’s a luxurious property with an elegant, mid-century modern style, fine dining choices and some of the best views of the city (only the mosque is taller, so most views are completely unobstructed).

Nearby, you’ll find tons of trendy shops and restaurants, along with Villa of Arts, one of Casablanca’s most prestigious art museums (the reputable Museum Abderrahman Slaoui is also close). Kenzi Tower is the best choice for travelers interested in shopping at Casablanca’s most modern boutiques and upscale retailers (for context: Hyatt Regency and Hôtel Le Doge are closer to Casablanca’s traditional markets).

Fora Perks at Kenzi Tower Hotel:

$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

5. Hôtel Le Doge - Relais & Châteaux: a luxurious hotel in Casablanca

Image courtesy of Hôtel Le Doge - Relais & Châteaux

Hôtel Le Doge is one of the most extravagant Casablanca hotels. The building the hotel now inhabits was first built in the 1930s, supposedly as a gift from an Italian entrepreneur to his Moroccan wife.

The attention to detail in maintaining the building’s original 1930s style is a highlight, with each room and suite featuring vintage furniture and artwork. It’s a unique look among the top hotels in Casablanca that plays into the city’s early-20th-century fame. Despite the throwback style, the amenities are very much up-to-date.

Hôtel Le Doge also features two eateries — a rooftop Mediterranean restaurant and an elevated take on traditional Moroccan cuisine (if you’re curious, check out our guide to the best food in Morocco ) — and a hammam-equipped spa.

Like Kenzi Tower and Hyatt Regency, you’ll find this property in the heart of the Art Deco district.

Fora Perks at Hôtel Le Doge - Relais & Châteaux:

VIP welcome, breakfast daily.

Want VIP perks at the top hotels in Casablanca? Book with Fora

When you’re ready to plan your Moroccan getaway, reach out to a Fora Advisor. They’ll help matchmake you to a property that’s right for your style and budget, plus unlock VIP perks like spa credits and room upgrades.

Casablanca hotel FAQs & tips

Have more questions about Casablanca hotels? Here are a few answers.

Where should you stay if you want to be near Casablanca’s airport? How about City Center?

If you’re staying for more than just a quick stopover at the airport, we recommend booking a property in Casablanca’s City Center (a.k.a. Downtown Casablanca) so that you can experience the city. All the hotels we mentioned above are about less than an hour from Mohammed V International Airport, Casablanca’s gateway for most travelers.

If you’re just looking for a quick stop somewhere very close to the airport and you’re not staying in the city to explore, your Fora Advisor can make some recommendations on properties very close to the airport. Reach out to them to learn more .

How far out should you book a Casablanca hotel?

It can be a little difficult to get the exact hotel room you want if you try to book close to your travel date. But there are so many solid options in Casablanca that — assuming you’re reasonably flexible — you should be able to land an excellent room or suite any time of year, even during peak travel season.

On the other hand, the further out you book, the more likely you’ll be able to score whatever accommodations you desire.

More Morocco travel inspiration

Check out these guides for more Morocco travel inspiration:

8 of the Most Exciting Sights & Things to Visit in Marrakech

The Amanjena Resort in Marrakech: A Design-Forward Oasis

Fora Hotel Spotlight: Marrakech's Mandarin Oriental Resort

Fora’s Guide to Essaouira, Morocco: Hotels & Things to Do

Fora’s Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide: Tips, FAQs & More

Book with Fora

Tell us more about yourself to get matched with a Fora Advisor and start planning your dream trip today.

7 of the best all-inclusive experiences to book this year, from a travel planner

As a travel planner, my clients seem to be increasingly interested in all-inclusive trips .
Some of my favorite luxury resorts are in Costa Rica, the Maldives, and Isla Mujeres.
Cruises, group tours, and adults-only lodgings can also come with all-inclusive options.

As a travel planner at Marvelous Mouse Travels , I know vacations are expensive — especially if you're looking to go somewhere this summer . But all-inclusive travel is often a great way to get the most value out of a luxury experience.

I've been on several all-inclusive vacations with my family, friends, and work, and I've helped other people book them in destinations around the world .

Here are some of the best all-inclusive experiences I'm recommending to my clients this year.

Try a split-stay vacation to see the best of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is one of the most sought-after vacations , and for good reason. It's great for both relaxation and adventure.

I recommend booking a split stay, starting at an all-inclusive resort in Guanacaste near the beach for some fun in the sun and moving to a resort near the famous Arenal Volcano for a jungle adventure.

Some of my favorite resorts in Costa Rica are the Westin Reserva Conchal and the Dreams Las Mareas. And if you're looking for an even more unique experience, check out the glorious swim-out suites with private pools at Dreams.

Baglioni Maldives is one of my favorite all-inclusive resorts.

The Maldives, a remote set of islands in the Indian Ocean, offers a plethora of resort options for couples and families, but Baglioni Maldives is my favorite.

For many in the US, getting to the islands can be daunting — there are very few direct commercial flights, and it can take almost an entire day. But it's hard to beat the country's luxury accommodations and gorgeous landscape.

The Maldives also has some of the most beautiful marine life and coveted spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.

No matter where you go, overwater bungalows are the ultimate all-inclusive splurge.

Overwater bungalows — villas standing on poles over open ocean water — are prevalent at all-inclusive resorts in destinations like the Maldives, Fiji, and Bali.

But I've also come across the luxurious accommodations at select adults-only Sandals Resorts throughout the Caribbean.

I think having a private villa on the water is the perfect way to unwind and relax.

Adults-only vacations are on the rise.

Traveling with kids can be a blast, but I also think it's important for adults to take a much-needed break on their own.

Adults-only resorts have been a total respite for me and my husband after hectic months of juggling work with our kids' school and sports schedules.

If you're looking to unwind with a partner, relax on a girls' trip, or even connect with your adult children, there are countless adults-only, all-inclusive resorts to choose from, depending on where you're looking to visit.

Some properties, including Sandals and Beaches Resorts, also offer butler service. Designated staff members can help with anything from room requests and dining reservations to cabana rentals and transportation coordination.

I upgraded to the service at my favorite adults-only spot, Le Blanc Los Cabos, and I felt totally pampered.

Isla Mujeres is pure luxury.

Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancún, is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise water and peaceful vibe. It's also home to Playa Norte, one of the best beaches in Mexico .

Impressions Isla Mujeres by Secrets is a gorgeous all-inclusive resort on the island. It offers luxury at its finest, but with only 125 rooms, it has a boutique feel.

One of my favorite features of the resort is the waterslide that leads right into the beautiful ocean.

There are plenty of all-inclusive packages at sea.

Cruising is one of the most popular vacations , whether it's an epic adventure on a Royal Caribbean Cruise, a couples-only journey on Virgin Voyages, or a regal tour of Europe on Viking River Cruises.

Although cruises aren't traditionally considered all-inclusive, with the right booking, they can have the same feel as a luxury resort.

Most cruise bookings include food, nonalcoholic drinks, and live entertainment. If you add beverage packages and excursions in advance, your trip should be fully paid for before you depart.

Book a small-group or private tour if you're looking for adventure.

Group travel is a great way to explore new places while soaking up culture and history.

Popular destinations include Italy, Japan, Costa Rica, and Alaska, and many travel companies take care of everything for you, essentially making it all-inclusive.

I like Adventures by Disney , which offers small-group travel all over the world facilitated by seasoned guides. All the trip details are taken care of, including experiences, food, lodging, and transportation.

Additionally, Kensington Tours offers luxury private travel where every facet of the trip is meticulously planned for you.

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I Bought This $26 Amazon Crossbody Bag for a Week-long Ireland Trip — and I Can’t Stop Wearing It

It's three bags in one and fits way more than you'd think.

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Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As a frequent flier and travel writer who travels at least a dozen times a year, I’ve come to learn that a crossbody bag should be part of everyone’s travel uniform. Simple but effective, they can help make the chaos of traveling just a little more organized by holding all of your essentials in one easy-to-reach place. I’m constantly on the lookout for a bag that can withstand the wear and tear of traveling long distances while also being chic enough to wear out when I finally reach my destination — and I've struggled to balance fashion and function over the years — until I came across the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag at Amazon.

I recently tested it out on a week-long road trip through southern Ireland and was seriously impressed with its versatile and roomy features, and not to mention its sleek silhouette. During my search, I was looking for a bag that was spacious enough to fit all of my essentials while flying and on the road; durable to endure the capricious Irish weather; and stylish to be worn around the cities and harbor towns. The Uto crossbody bag , thankfully, satisfied all three of these important criteria. I wore it all day, every day, and was so pleasantly surprised with its performance that I’ve officially crowned it my go-to travel purse. Finally, the search is over.

Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag

Made with supple synthetic-washed leather, the bag is scratch- and water-resistant, and was rugged enough to endure the unpredictable bursts of violent Irish weather. I wore it on wind- and rain-torn cliffs, and it not only withstood the battering, but protected all of my valuables from the elements as well. It comes with a detachable and adjustable nylon strap that’s thick and wide enough to sit comfortably on the body without digging into your shoulder or slipping off (or in my case, being whipped off my person by the wind).

Asia Palomba

Best of all, its hybrid, crossbody design has a removable main purse with two separated, zippered compartments containing three credit card slots and one inner zip pocket, as well as a removable mini purse and a removable coin pouch on the bag’s strap — a compartment lover’s dream. This unique versatility means that the bag can be worn as a crossbody, a clutch, a shoulder purse, or even a belt bag , so you can easily find what works best for you when traveling.

But its spaciousness is where it really shines. Despite the bag’s compact size, which never felt too bulky on my person, it's stocked with ample storage features. I found that I was easily able to fit all of my travel essentials between the bag’s four compartments — no squishing necessary. Within one of the main purses, I packed a portable charger and a phone cable, and in the other, I stored my three passports and my wallet, containing both American and European currency, as well as my cell phone.

In the mini, removable purse I stored multiple lip balms, hand sanitizers, and portable creams to keep my skin hydrated while traveling. During my flights, I used the removable mini coin purse, which can be attached chest-high on the bag’s strap, to hold loose change and my Apple AirPods. When in Ireland and on the road, I, instead, used it to store several of my camera batteries so that they were always within easy reach.

What’s more, I was able to pack all of these essentials with room to spare , which came in handy when I began collecting smaller souvenirs and entrance tickets to museums and monuments throughout my trip.

For extra style points, the entire ensemble is accented with a delicate, removable gold or silver chain, depending on the color bag that you choose. I have the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag in black with gold accents, but it comes in 14 other colors that range from playful pink and sage green to neutral light gray and maple brown. Shoppers also have their choice of three additional variations: two-toned , a patterned strap , and a quilted body , which are sure to satisfy any preference and compliment any outfit.

Since returning from my trip, I’ve already worn the crossbody bag while on walks or running errands, especially on windy and rainy days. Its ample storage space is a serious boon for a serial overpacker such as myself, and is sure to help me focus on traveling light, especially on carry-on only trips. I’ve already slotted the crossbody as my go-to purse for my upcoming trips home to Rome, the Azores Islands, and Morocco, and I look forward to seeing how it’ll hold up over the years. Plus, it comes with its own dust bag with the brand’s name stamped across it, so you can keep it safely stored when not in use.

Chic, durable, spacious, and versatile, the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag is the ideal purse for frequent travelers. It’ll hold all of your essentials comfortably and effortlessly, whether you’re flying, road tripping, or walking around town running errands. And the best part is that it’s only $26 — a price that will hardly make you dip too far into your travel budget.

The bag is in good company at Amazon, which is bursting with travel-ready crossbody purses ahead of the warm-weather months (some of which are on sale). Keep scrolling to see which other styles are out there.

More Crossbody Bags at Amazon:

Alyssa triple zip pocket large crossbody bag, myfriday crossbody cell phone bag, fashionpuzzle triple-zip crossbody, k.carroll accessories kelsey crossbody.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $26.

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COMMENTS

20 Best Morocco Travel Guide Books of All Time
The 20 best morocco travel guide books recommended by Booklist and The New York Times, such as Moon Morocco and DK Eyewitness Morocco.
Your Morocco Reading List: 14 Books Guaranteed ...
For Bread Alone by Mohamed Choukri. This fast-paced, heartrending novelization of the author's life is a snapshot into the underbelly of Morocco. Set in the early 50s, against the backdrop of Tangier's "Interzone," Mohamed charms and steals his way through the world.
Amazon Best Sellers: Best Morocco Travel Guides
Best Sellers in Morocco Travel Guides. #1. Lonely Planet Morocco 14 (Travel Guide) Helen Ranger. 16. Paperback. 59 offers from $17.82. #2. Fodor's Essential Morocco (Full-color Travel Guide)
11 of the Best Books About Morocco You Have to Read
The Voices of Marrakech by Elias Canetti. One of the most intriguing accounts of Morocco by a tourist, the Nobel Prize winner takes us to the country's red city and delves into some more non-touristy subjects as well. I found the observations about the Jewish populations in Morocco the most intriguing, since Canetti was Jewish and provides ...
The Best Morocco Travel Books In 2023
The Rough Guide to Morocco is a more traditional Morocco travel book than the other ones on this list. It is a comprehensive travel guide to this beautiful North African country. This Morocco travel book covers a wide range of topics, including history, culture, geography, and practical information for travelers.
Lonely Planet Morocco 12 (Travel Guide)
Lonely Planet Morocco 12 (Travel Guide) Paperback - Folded Map, August 15, 2017. by Jessica Lee (Author), Brett Atkinson (Author), Paul Clammer (Author), 4.6 454 ratings. See all formats and editions.
The Best Travel Guidebooks for Morocco
Gardens of Marrakesh is a great book! 7 years ago. I have this one, it is a really amazing book with great photographs of Moroccan and Islamic gardens. A collection of the Best Travel Books for Morocco, All information about Morocco history, the best places to visit and local restaurants in your pocket.
Morocco Travel Book and eBook
Lonely Planet's Morocco is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Explore the Marrakesh medina, wander the blue alleyways of Chefchaouen, and chill on a Mediterranean beach; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Morocco
Morocco
Walking with Nomads by Alice Morrison ☆ Shortlisted for the 2023 Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards Travel Book of the Year The Scottish explorer and TV presenter Alice Morrison travels across Morocco, from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains, in the company of three Amazigh (once known as Berber) men and their camels. During her journeys, she encounters a lost city and dinosaur ...
Morocco travel guide
Morocco. Africa. Check out this year's Best in Travel winners. A country of dazzling diversity, Morocco has epic mountains, sweeping deserts and ancient cities, and it greets travelers with warm hospitality and the perfect glass of mint tea. Best Time to Visit. Best Places to Visit.
The Rough Guide to Morocco (Travel Guide with Free eBook ...
The Rough Guide to Morocco Make the most of your time on Earth with the ultimate travel guides. World-renowned 'tell it like it is' travel guide, now with free eBook. Discover Morocco with this comprehensive and entertaining travel guide, packed with practical information and honest recommendations by our independent experts.
The 12 Best Books to Read About Morocco
In Morocco, by Edith Wharton The 12 Best Books to Read About Morocco. The 12 Best Books to Read About Morocco is a hand curated list of our editor's picks of the Best Books to read before you visit Morocco.These Best Books to Read before you visit Morocco offer an insight into the country's history, culture and traditions. Preparing an exciting Reading list of Morocco Books ranging from ...
Best Books About Morocco: What to Read Before You Visit Morocco
These are the best books about Morocco. Travels. by Paul Bowles. Travels: Collected Writings, 1950-1993. See More Reviews or Buy on Amazon. Acclaimed American novelist Paul Bowles lived in Tangier for 52 years. He has a unique place in writing about Morocco, a country he was passionate about.
Amazon Best Sellers: Best Morocco Travel
Updated frequently. Best Sellers in Morocco Travel. Top 100 Paid Top 100 Free. #1. Fodor's Essential Morocco (Full-color Travel Guide) Fodor's Travel Guides. 19. Kindle Edition. 1 offer from $9.99.
Best Sellers in Morocco Travel Guides
Best Sellers in Morocco Travel Guides. #1. Lonely Planet Pocket Marrakesh 5 5th Ed. Lorna Parkes. 126. Paperback. 22 offers from $10.30. #2. Flavors of the Maghreb: Authentic Recipes from the Land Where the Sun Sets (North Africa and Southern Italy)
Best Books to Read About Morocco
In Morocco by Edith Wharton. In 1917, amid the turmoil of war I, Wharton , the author of The Age of Innocence and therefore the House of Mirth, travelled to Morocco. A classic of travel writing, In Morocco is her account of this journey through the country's cities and thru its deserts. The Ecco Travels edition of In Morocco brings this ...
The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide: All You Need to Know
The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide. Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Morocco awaits! With its bustling markets, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, it's the perfect destination for the traveler seeking a unique experience. ... Book the best Morocco all-inclusive tours! Marrakech tours. 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora; 3 ...
Moon Morocco (Travel Guide)
There is a newer edition of this item: Moon Morocco: Local Insight, Strategic Itineraries, Desert Excursions (Moon Middle East & Africa Travel Guide) $22.79. (9) In Stock. Grand imperial cities, calm desert oases, Mediterranean beaches, and ancient history: experience an incredible crossroads of culture with Moon Morocco. Inside you'll find:
Books about Morocco
There are heaps of books set in Morocco, ranging from starry-eyed fictional tales of romance and adventure, to historical travel literature and light-hearted stories about expats navigating the realities of re-settlement. We've put together a list of the best stories and top authors championing Morocco for you to try. The best books about Morocco
20 Best Morocco Travel Guide eBooks of All Time
The 20 best morocco travel guide ebooks recommended by Booklist and The New York Times, such as Marrakesh Top 10 and MOROCCO TRAVEL GUIDE. ... BookAuthority is the world's leading site for book recommendations, helping you discover the most recommended books on any subject. Explore; Home; Best Books; New Books; Best-Selling Books; Beginner ...
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A young country with an old history, Morocco is a photographer's delight and a budget traveler's dream. It's cheap, exotic, and easier and more appealing than ever. Along with a rich culture, Morocco offers plenty of contrast — from beach resorts to bustling desert markets, from jagged mountains to sleepy, mud-brick oasis towns. And a visit to Morocco — so close to Europe, yet embracing ...
Your Perfect 7 Day Morocco Itinerary
7-Day Morocco Itinerary 2: Imperial Cities & Desert. The second itinerary takes you to the imperial cities in Morocco: Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, and Rabat. These major cities have earned their imperial title because, at various points in Morocco's history, they have all served as the country's capital.
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Reading Tip: The Complete City Guide to Marrakech, Morocco's Red City. 7. The spider's house - Paul Bowles. Set in Fez in 1954 during Morocco's nationalist uprising, published in 1955, and 1956 was the year Morocco declared independence from the French protectorate.
Best Books to Read before Traveling to Morocco
A List - Best Books to Read Before Traveling to Morocco. HISTORY. Morocco That Was - By Water Harris. Morocco Since 1830 - By C.R. Pennell. Lords of the Atlas: The Rise and Fall of the House of Glaoua - By Gavin Maxwell. The Conquest of Morocco - By Douglass Porch. FICTION & NON- FICTION. Culture & Customs in Morocco - By Raphael Njoku.
Morocco Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Morocco Travel Costs. Accommodation - Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost between 80-110 MAD per night in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez, and about 50-60 MAD in smaller places. Private rooms in hostels cost around 260-380 MAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.
5 Luxe Hotels in Casablanca, Morocco
One of the most exciting hotel openings in 2024 in Casablanca is the Royal Mansour Casablanca. Its sister property is in Marrakech (Royal Mansour Marrakech) and is one of the top luxury properties in all of Morocco.The property opened in April 2024, and Royal Mansour Casablanca is a masterclass in bringing the 1950s Art Deco movement into 21st-century Morocco.
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11 of the Best Books About Morocco You Have to Read

Amazing books about Morocco you have to read

The Voices of Marrakech by Elias Canetti

A Street in Marrakech by Elizabeth Warnock Fernea

In Morocco by Edith Wharton

The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca by Tahir Shah

A House in Fez: Building a Life in the Ancient Heart of Morocco by Suzanna Clarke

Dreams of Trespass: Tales of a Harem Girlhood by Fatima Mernissa

Making Morocco: Colonial Intervention and the Politics of Identity by Jonathan Wyrtzen

Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb

Travels by Paul Bowles

Secret Son by Laila Lalami

Morocco That Was by Walter Harris

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The Best Morocco Travel Books in 2023

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The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide

Introduction

Best time to visit