discover what to do in morocco in winterr
A Moment of Relaxation in MarrakechHub
With the winter season in full swing, don't hesitate to set your sights on Marrakech for enjoyable moments of relaxation. This renowned city is just a 3-hour flight from Paris and is well worth the visit.
Stay Overnight in a Riad
To immerse yourself in the charm and essence of Marrakech, consider renting a room in a Riad. This is a typical Moroccan house that guarantees an authentic stay. Recognizable by its patio housing a water source and sometimes citrus trees, Riads are usually the homes of hosts as they are family houses. In the patio, take the time to savor mint tea – a pure delight.
Culinary Delights and Well-being
You won't be disappointed with the culinary offerings during your stay in Marrakech. From couscous and honey pastries to tagines, let your taste buds be swept away by a delightful culinary experience. Other culinary specialties await you in Marrakech, such as tanjia marrakchi, a dish of meats and spices cooked in a hammam oven.
In Marrakech, the Moroccan well-being destination, treat yourself to a hammam session, an ancient ritual that ensures complete relaxation. Tourists particularly appreciate it, comparing it to a true sensory journey. In a friendly setting that invites relaxation, you'll enjoy massage sessions with natural products and exfoliation, allowing you to unwind and recharge.
Finally, to mark your winter visit to Marrakech, head to Jamaa El Fna square to procure souvenir flavors like natural cosmetics and spices.
Dreamy Places to Visit During Your Winter Vacation in Morocco
It's hard to get bored in Morocco, even during the winter season. It's an ideal time to explore beautiful destinations that hold pleasant surprises. You won't be disappointed by heading to one of the destinations below.
Michlifen
Less than 20 km from Ifrane, you'll find Michlifen, a ski resort nestled at 2000 meters above sea level. This gem in the Middle Atlas is located in the heart of a large cedar forest and is open each year from mid-November to late March. It features 5 slopes for skiers to indulge in skiing and other winter sports. Nearby, you'll find multiple guesthouses and inns toward Ifrane and Khénifra.
Oukaimeden
Thrill-seekers, set your course for Oukaimeden, the famous ski resort about 75 km from the city and perched at 3200 meters above sea level. With an area of over 300 hectares, it's considered the highest ski resort in Africa. Well-equipped with ski lifts, a chairlift, and tow lifts, among other amenities, it offers over 20 ski slopes for visitors to enjoy a wide range of winter sports. Skiers appreciate the opportunity to experience the surrounding nature, and in the area, you'll find numerous tourist establishments and small shops offering essential products for skiers.
Bin El Ouidane
Looking for a romantic getaway away from the stressful conditions of the city? In that case, you'll likely be delighted to visit Bin El Ouidane, a large lake spanning nearly 4000 hectares. It's a highly appreciated destination for Moroccans and foreigners alike, giving rise to numerous hotels and inns to meet the growing need for visitor accommodation. But this lake isn't just a place for escapism and relaxation – it also offers the opportunity to engage in various activities such as banana boating, wakeboarding, and kayaking.
Aït Bouguemez
Aït Bouguemez, a dreamland still relatively unknown to the public, is a paradisiacal destination. Particularly cherished by thrill-seekers, it offers numerous activities such as canyoning, climbing, and hiking. In this valley, you'll have the opportunity to explore 27 picturesque stone-built villages.
Aït Bouguemez is also an excellent choice for a short getaway to relax and explore the M'goun massif. This region is characterized by the diversity of its flora and fauna, attracting thousands of tourists from around the world each year.
Aït-Ben-Haddou
Situated in the Ouarzazate region, specifically in the Ounila Valley, the Kasbah Aït-Ben-Haddou is one of the greatest symbols of South Moroccan architecture. This structure comprises a collection of traditional earth-built constructions. It has also served as a filming location for numerous series and films such as Babel, Lawrence of Arabia, and the third season of Game of Thrones. Aït-Ben-Haddou has been classified as a national heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987.
Djebel Moussa
Head north in Morocco to discover Djebel Moussa, a mountain that rises over 850 meters above sea level. If you're a hiking and climbing enthusiast, you'll likely appreciate this destination. From the top of this mountain, take the time to admire the incredible panorama of the Strait of Gibraltar. During your stay, we recommend renting accommodation from the locals, or you can also stay in an inn. If you prefer, you can opt for lodging in the city of Tangier, located about 30 km from Djebel Moussa.
Djebel Toubkal
Crowning at 4167 meters above sea level, Djebel Toubkal is undoubtedly the highest peak in Morocco and North Africa. At its summit, you'll be undoubtedly amazed, like thousands of visitors before you, by its wonderful panoramas. You can visit in winter to experience the charm of this mountain.
Exploring Moroccan Nature
Moroccan nature welcomes you after the winter holidays for a moment of escape. There are numerous destinations to consider.
A Short Getaway to the Sahara
Your Moroccan vacation wouldn't be complete without a short escapade to the Sahara, the largest desert in the world. To reach this destination, the easiest route is to land in Ouarzazate, also known as the "gateway to the desert." Before embarking on this thrilling Sahara adventure, take the time to admire the Taourirt Kasbahs in Ouarzazate, which have been a source of inspiration for prominent filmmakers, including masterpieces like Gladiator and the iconic Star Wars saga.
Once in the heart of the Sahara, oases, palm groves, and dunes punctuate the vastness of this desert considered the most beautiful in the world. The adventurous can opt for a horseback ride. As night falls, gaze up and appreciate the infinite stars in the sky.
Dakhla, a Dreamy Corner Between Desert and Ocean
The meeting point of the Sahara and the Atlantic takes you to a dream destination: Dakhla. It's a perfect spot to avoid large crowds of tourists, known for its kitesurfing spots and natural treasures. During your stay, take a trip to Herné Island, also known as Dragon Island due to its shape. This place offers a breathtaking view of Dakhla Bay. With a bit of luck, you might spot magnificent marine animals like dolphins during your boat ride.