10 Reasons to Visit Morocco

Explore the Enchanting Wonders of Morocco: 10 Reasons to Visit in 2024

Introduction: The realm of Morocco stands as one of the dream destinations for travelers. With paths laden with spices, intersecting imperial cities, stretches of desert and beach, and a culture where craftsmanship is ingrained in daily life, there’s an indescribable mystique that is best experienced firsthand. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey. To prepare you for this adventure, we’re sharing 10 compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Morocco in 2024.

10 Reasons to Visit Morocco:

1 – Gastronomy

Morocco captivates through its flavors, leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds. A blend of Middle Eastern and African influences bursts with spices that create unparalleled tastes. Signature dishes of Moroccan cuisine include tagine (traditionally cooked in clay pots) made with meat, fish, or vegetables; couscous; a variety of skewered brochettes; and the ever-present Moroccan salad that accompanies every meal throughout the year, along with the traditional harira soup. This is one of the 10 reasons to visit Morocco.

2 – Moroccan Tea

Among the gastronomic delights, don’t forget the traditional Moroccan tea, served everywhere at all hours. Whether as a welcoming gesture, for sealing deals, at parties and meetings, or simply to quench your thirst, Moroccan tea is a concoction of green tea, fresh mint leaves, and copious amounts of sugar!

3 – Best Time to Visit Morocco

We believe every season is perfect to visit Morocco, each offering its unique beauty. For instance, Marrakech maintains mild temperatures even in winter. While the summer heat might be intense in the desert, the coastal areas provide a refreshing respite. Due to varied climates across regions, spring (March to June) and fall (September to November) are the ideal times to visit, with milder temperatures.

4 – The Two Faces of Marrakech

Marrakech seems like two entirely different worlds: the ancient Medina within its walls and the modern city beyond. The “new” city boasts upscale resorts, sophisticated hotels, shopping centers, international brands, bars, and nightclubs. Meanwhile, the old city appears frozen in time, with traditional craft shops lining the narrow alleys and traditional riads serving as personalized accommodations.

These are two distinct realms in the so-called Red City due to the color of its buildings. At the heart of the Medina lies the Djemaa El Fna Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where traditions endure: from henna painting to snake charmers, storytellers, and musicians from all corners of Morocco. Every evening, restaurants spring up on this square, serving local cuisine throughout the night. This is one of the 10 reasons to visit Morocco.

5 – Bargaining

The keyword for shopping in Morocco is bargaining. If you’re not interested in what’s being offered, get accustomed to smiling and declining. Picture this: hundreds of neighboring shops selling nearly identical items. The marketing tactics are vigorous and relentless, aiming to capture your attention.

Negotiation is possible for (almost) everything, but remember to bargain fairly. The prices are already significantly lower than what you’re used to, considering the craftsmanship.

While 1 euro might not make much difference to us, it can mean a lot to many of them. And if you’re not interested, that’s fine too – just continue your journey. Food isn’t subject to negotiation, though!

6 – What to Buy in Morocco?

First rule for shopping in Morocco? Did you read the previous point? Bargain, bargain, bargain! And have some patience while doing so. In the souks, bustling markets filled with hundreds (or thousands) of shops, you’ll find a diverse array of handicrafts.

From rugs and babouches to ceramic pieces, baskets, copper items (including lamps, mirrors, and lanterns), textiles (blankets, cushions), jewelry, tea sets, glass cups, and of course, leather goods including bags, briefcases, trunks, and jackets.

Don’t forget spices, dates (and other dried fruits), and herbal products like argan oil and clays. We recommend buying from shops, cooperatives, or herbal stores to ensure product quality.

7 – Moroccan Clothing

In addition to handicrafts, traditional Moroccan clothing also piques curiosity. These garments are integral to local culture and often serve to protect against the abundant dust and sand in the air. The Djellaba, a unique piece, is a long tunic with a pointed hood, worn by both men and women.

The Gandora is similar but lacks a hood and may have short sleeves. These outfits are highly coveted by tourists, as are the elegant Kaftans available in various price ranges – from simple day-to-day dresses to intricately embroidered pieces for parties and weddings.

The variety extends to Abaya, a fabric placed over clothing, akin to a mantle. Different regions of Morocco feature diverse clothing styles; for example, in the north, you might see colorful pompoms and hats, while the Dades Valley might showcase translucent mantles. A practical piece for your journey is the scarves worn by desert inhabitants for sun and sand protection.

8 – Film Industry in Morocco

Filmmakers from around the world flock to Morocco to produce movies and series. The country offers stability for filming due to its political and social stability, consistently good weather, and a diverse range of natural backdrops – from deserts to seas, historical cities to mountains.

Ouarzazate is a city that has grown significantly due to the increased demand for filming, and the Cinema Studios there shed light on the productions made on site. “Gladiator,” “Prison Break,” and “Game of Thrones” are just a few of the many hundreds of films that chose this destination for shooting iconic scenes. This is one of the 10 reasons to visit Morocco.

9 – 5 Must-Visit Locations in Morocco

Sleeping in the Sahara Desert is among the most incredible experiences Morocco offers. The Erg Chebbi sand dunes are among the most stunning landscapes on Earth, and they transform daily – near Erg Chebbi, you can also explore Merzouga. Apart from Marrakech, one of the country’s most visited cities, Ait Ben Haddou, with its UNESCO-designated Ksar (fortified village), is worthy of careful exploration.

While traversing Morocco, consider the Atlas Mountains, especially the route between Marrakech and Merzouga, and the breathtaking Draa Valley with its millions of palm trees. Did you know Morocco is one of the world’s largest date exporters? Don’t forget the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge, where spring water offers respite as you admire one of the world’s tallest canyons.

10 – Experience a Hammam

Lastly, don’t miss experiencing a Moroccan hammam. This traditional steam bath holds a series of peculiarities. Traditionally done on the floor or benches, modern spas have improved conditions to ensure comfort. Either way, the hammam involves a thorough scrubbing that promises to renew your skin.

An attendant scrubs and cleanses you with water poured from pots, following a deliberate ritual. A black soap with eucalyptus aroma and an exfoliating glove leave your skin soft and smooth. Treatments are increasingly sophisticated, and after a hammam session, you can enjoy an argan oil massage. Perfect skin awaits at the end! This is one of the 10 reasons to visit Morocco.