10 Best Things to Do in Morocco

No trip to Morocco would be complete without the experience of riding camels through the Sahara Desert, followed by a night in a desert camp. But to make the most of it, you need to arrive prepared. In winter, nighttime temperatures can fall below freezing, so cold-weather travelers need to pack the proper gear (gloves, warm socks, winter jacket). To avoid the cold nights of winter and the extreme highs of summer, plan to go in the spring or fall. But note that sandstorms are more common in April. The easiest way to book a trip to the Sahara is going on a country-wide tour that includes a stop in the desert.

Fes is the artisan capital of Morocco, and visiting an artisan co-op is one of the best things to do in Morocco to help you understand its culture. You'll find everything from picturesque (but smelly) tanneries to rug weaving shops and ceramic warehouses in the city. Be sure to make time for a stop at Poterie de Fes where you can see ceramic artisans practicing their trade and buy from the warehouse.

Also in Fes, be sure to explore the old medina, which means market in Arabic. Because this labyrinth of 9,000 streets can be very confusing, it's best to go on a guided tour (either with a multi-day tour operator or a local guide). To be a medina tour guide in Fes, you must have been born in the medina and pass a series of tests and certifications. Visits to the main tannery, rug weaving, lantern, leather, and metal shops are typically included, as well as stops at other points of interest in Fes including the Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter, and ancient universities.

Home to such sights as Majorelle Gardens, Bahia Palace, and Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech is the cultural capital of Morocco. But it’s also the most Westernized of Morocco's cities, with an abundance of nightlife, restaurants, and shopping malls. And, Marrakech is a great place use as a home base for day tours to the seaside town of Essaouira, Ouzoud Falls, Oukaimeden ski resort, or the Ourika Valley.

Some of the world's most luxurious and stylish hotels are in Marrakech, and many offer day passes to their pools, gyms, and spas. Many of the coolest hotels have restaurants open to non-guests as well. La Mamounia is centrally located and serves a poolside Mediterranean buffet, and its spa is one of the best in Morocco for traditional hammam treatments. Selman Marrakech—located about 10 minutes outside the city—is the perfect place to lounge by the tranquil pool or wander around the Arabian racing horse stables.

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco—it's heavily populated, overwhelmingly crowded, and absolutely worth a visit. If you're a fan of the movie Casablanca, and you're headed to Morocco, having a French 75 at Rick's Cafe is a must.

Then check out the Hassan II Mosque—easily one of the most impressive and best things to do in Morocco—and have dinner along the beach. Discover Casablanca’s unexpected beach vibe, evident in its surf culture, beach clubs, nightclubs, and waterfront restaurants.

Before 2005, non-Muslim tourists were only allowed in Moulay Idriss between sunrise and 3 p.m., meaning they couldn't stay overnight. Now open to all, this village, known as the Sacred City to many Muslims, is beginning to find its tourism stride. Intimate guest houses are popping up and an increasing number of tours include an overnight in the city

Set in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the hilltop town of Moulay Idriss is known for its maze-like streets and incredible views. The town was founded by Moulay Idriss, a descendent of Muhammad, and is also where he is buried. The newly opened guest houses allow for cultural exchanges in one of the most sacred cities in Islam. Nearby, you'll find ancient Roman ruins in Volubilis, which is a great stop as you leave the city.

If you're looking to hike in Africa, Morocco’s Atlas Mountain range is one of the best places to do it. The Todra Gorge is also a popular tourist spot for adventure seekers, especially climbers. The trench separates the High Atlas Mountains from the Sahara, and is a stop on many tours that are headed from the desert to Marrakech.

For the ultimate Instagram backdrop, stop in the blue-painted city of Chefchaouen. About three-hours north of Fes, Chefchaouen is a popular tourist spot packed with Berber culture, Moroccan cuisine, and shops, all within sight of the nearby Rif Mountains.

While it’s easy to find French and other international cuisines in Morocco’s major cities, my favorite meals on my trip were at the guest houses and with locals. The two main dishes in Moroccan cuisine are tagine—named after the dish it is served in—which is typically meatballs in sauce with eggs, and couscous with chicken. There are often vegetarian options available, and even vegetarian-friendly restaurants like Latitude 31 in Marrakech.

If you’re lucky enough to be welcomed into someone’s home, you’ll discover the important social role that mint tea plays in Morocco. If someone prepares mint tea for you, it’s polite to have three (small) glasses. And some of the loose-leaf tea (or a teapot) is a souvenir favorite.

Morocco is one of the best countries in the world for shopping and there is no better place to do shop than in one of the major cities’ medinas, or marketplaces. Whether you're in Fes, Marrakech, or Casablanca, you're expected to bargain.

If you visit a medina with a tour group, you won’t blend in as easily but you get the huge added benefit of a tour guide, who can give you bargaining tips, steer you to the best shops, and tell you how to spot a good deal. As a general rule, go at least 50 percent below the seller’s asking price, and don't budge on your final offer. Unlike in some countries, it's not considered rude or disrespectful to walk away from something if you don't like the price.

If you're a Game of Thrones or Gladiator fan, you may recognize the adobe city of Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular overnight stop between the desert and Marrakech, and I loved seeing this famous filming location. The city looks like it was carved out of a sand dune, and while only a few dozen people actually live in the adobe homes—there are hotels and other buildings just outside the walls—you can walk to the top for amazing sunrise and sunset views. Many different tour groups stop here, which creates a festive, international atmosphere at the hotels and restaurants.

Nearby is Atlas Film Studio, home to sets of The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, Babel, and dozens of other famous films. It's technically the largest film studio in the world, since it includes part of the surrounding desert. For about $5 USD you can take a guided tour if you're interested in learning more about "Morocco's Hollywood."