The 12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Morocco
Do you dream of One Thousand and One Nights, of tales and wonders, of enchantment and exoticism?
Then let yourself be transported to the twelve most beautiful places in Morocco.
Close your eyes. Imagine. It's hot. Everywhere around you, there is architecture rich in details and colors, bustling squares, shops piled up in alleys, tempting scents, spices tickling your taste buds, and welcoming people at every door.
Travel a little further. Vast dunes, stunning mountains, an endless sea, ochre lands, houses in the rocks, herds of goats in the villages.
You are in Morocco.
The good news? The dream can easily become a reality. The not-so-good news? It will be difficult to choose which places to visit in Morocco because there is so much to discover. But don't panic, we are here, and we offer you a mini-guide to the twelve most beautiful places in Morocco.
1. Toudgha Gorges
In the south of Morocco, explore the Atlas Mountains. Take the road into the heart of the Toudgha Valley. Along the way, cut through limestone cliffs that are three hundred meters high. You enter the Todgha Gorges.
To visit Morocco and experience the grandeur of its landscapes, the Toudgha Gorges are among the most fabulous. You will feel engulfed by these natural giants. Furthermore, the center of the gorges is accessible on foot. You can take a dip in the waters of the Oued Toudgha, the river that nourishes the valley and gives it its astonishing fertility. During your walk, be sure to look up! Don't be surprised to see climbers clinging to the cliffs.
2. Dades Gorges
In a similar style, the Dades Gorges are equally spectacular. They are located further to the west of the Toudgha Gorges. Once again, they testify to the incredible beauty of southern Morocco. Homes blend into the rocks, viewpoints are dizzying, geological formations are fascinating, and the colors are barely believable. For those wanting to visit Morocco with the feel of the Grand Canyon, this is a place not to be missed.
For an unforgettable memory, admire the vastness of the Dades Gorges at sunset from one of the highest points above the road. Finally, you will notice that these gorges are also a playground for hiking and climbing enthusiasts.
3. Merzouga and the Sahara Dunes
It's hard not to pass through the Sahara when you wish to visit Morocco. In the southeast of the country, you'll find the Saharan village of Merzouga. It's the perfect gateway to explore the largest Moroccan dunes. Also known as Erg Chebbi, this lunar massif of the Sahara offers a genuine postcard landscape. Here, it's the desert, the dunes, and the camels just as you've always imagined them! As far as the eye can see, you'll find nothing but a sea of golden sand.
To enjoy this exceptional place during your stay in Morocco, many activities are available to you: camel rides, nights under the starry sky with Sahrawi nomads, nights in Berber camps, or simply a sporty walk.
4. Paradise Valley
A place that lives up to its name! Although it's a well-known route for tourists, we recommend visiting this valley. Visiting Morocco also means discovering sumptuous oases. Paradise Valley is one of the most magnificent. Located at the gates of Agadir, this marvel of nature offers streams, waterfalls, natural turquoise pools, stunning gorges, and rich biodiversity. Don't hesitate to inquire about hiking trails. With or without a guide, also don't hesitate to explore less-traveled paths. An opportunity to awaken the adventurer in you during a journey through the lands of Morocco.
5. Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Ben Haddou stands in the province of Ouarzazate. It is a Moroccan Ksar: a typical Maghreb fortified village, built here on the hillside. Its value and preservation are so exceptional that the village is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You understand why it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco.
Ait Ben Haddou appears as a cluster of red clay houses and corner towers surrounded by defensive walls. The ocher and caramel colors of the brick are breathtaking.
The added bonus? The Ksar was the location for many film shoots: Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Prince of Persia, and even Game of Thrones. The first to find the iconic scenes!
6. Fint Oasis
To the south of Ouarzazate, discover the Fint Oasis. Meaning "hidden" in Berber, this enclave opens the doors to a true paradise. After visiting Morocco, you will understand that it is a land of striking contrasts.
Here, the lush nature of the palm grove contrasts with the reddish cliffs. Fint Oasis is also a wonderful testament to the ingenuity of the Moroccans. The irrigation system allows for the constant flourishing of vegetation in a harsh environment. Moreover, the palm grove plantations are never done randomly..."
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7. Ouzoud Waterfalls
Looking for what to visit in Morocco after enjoying the frenzy of one of the imperial capitals? Ouzoud Waterfalls will make you happy! Undoubtedly, it is one of the most natural sites in Morocco.
These one hundred and ten meters high waterfalls cascade down in torrents on three levels carved into the rock. To visit Ouzoud Waterfalls, follow a hiking trail that leads you through the forest, where you'll encounter various merchants and monkeys. Beware, they are real pilferers!
When you reach the foot of the waterfalls, you will feel tiny, and you won't be able to resist approaching these gigantic falls. Take a unique boat to cross to the other side and enjoy a tajine meal in front of the massive falls. On the way back, the panoramas are equally astounding. Seek out the spot where you can see a rainbow above the waterfalls.
8. Chefchaouen
To visit Morocco by exploring its cities, there are several must-see places. Among them: Chefchaouen, or the Blue City. Highly photogenic, this small town is known for its facades, arches, alleys, and buildings entirely painted in blue.
As you wander through Chefchaouen, you'll discover a city with surreal scenery that immediately captivates. The labyrinthine streets give the impression of an enchanted maze. It's impossible not to be enthralled by this indigo labyrinth, sometimes bright and electric, sometimes pale and gentle.
From a higher vantage point, the blue hues of the city offer a magical panorama. When you visit Chefchaouen, don't miss admiring this view at sunset.
9. Marrakech
Of course, you think of Marrakech when asked what to visit in Morocco. But just in case you missed it, we confirm that the tourist capital is indeed one of the most beautiful places in Morocco. Day and night, the red city exerts an incredible attraction:
- The bustling atmosphere of Jamaa El-Fna Square;
- The beautiful Majorelle Garden;
- The marvelous labyrinth of souks;
- Street vendors;
- The essential Palmeraie of Marrakech;
- The ubiquitous colors and lights;
- Abundant couscous dishes;
- Exotic and majestic gardens;
- Ornate and detailed palaces;
- Historical buildings and the Koutoubia Mosque;
- Secret and refined riads;
- Rooftops with incredible views of the Medina.
In short, in Marrakech, you'll find an atmosphere reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights.
10. Fes
If you want to visit refined, historical, and artistic Morocco, head to Fes, a mythical city filled with attractions. The Medina, or old town, of Fes is renowned as the most beautiful in the country. Its charm comes from the pervasive traces of the past. The imprint of history is evident in every school, mosque, or alley. It's even better to get lost in these colors of time.
A visit to the Chouara Tannery in Fes is also a must. Stroll between the vats and then gain some height on the colorful terraces. It's one of the most beautiful living spectacles during your stay in Fes.
Morocco is also known for its ceramics, and Fes is where you'll find the most beautiful pieces. Their characteristic? That piercing blue, the recipe of which remains a secret. A pottery item from Fes is one of the best souvenirs to bring back from a trip to Morocco.
11. Essaouira
For a Moroccan getaway, why not visit the Moroccan coast? Essaouira is a coastal city with a fresh and authentic atmosphere. Stroll around its port where hundreds of boats bob, walk around its ramparts, and savor delicious products straight from the sea.
Essaouira is a preferred destination to visit in Morocco if you're seeking more peace and tranquility. The overall ambiance is enveloping, and the colors are soft, although you'll find a certain excitement at the fishermen's auction and in the souks. Essaouira is also a gem for photographers, as its sunsets are renowned to be among the most beautiful in Morocco.
If you're staying in Marrakech, know that there are day trips to Essaouira, which you can discover in our article on day trips from Marrakech.
12. Dakhla
Dakhla is synonymous with vastness and pristine land. It's an ideal place to visit Morocco off the beaten path. Located at the southernmost point of Morocco, the place blurs the line between desert and ocean. The sand dunes are white, the landscapes are sometimes lunar, the waters are crystal clear, the beaches are wild, and it's a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Apart from them, few people still know about this jewel of the Moroccan coast.
Dakhla's lagoon, its wild beaches, and the Dragon Island are little paradises to bask in the sun, discover natural pools, or camp under the starry sky. In the vicinity of Dakhla, you can also enjoy a desert excursion, a free fish pedicure session in Imlili, or the hot springs at Asmaa."