Morocco really has something for everyone. It is one of the most diverse countries in the world, offering a smorgasbord of activities whether you want the slower pace of exploring rolling desert landscapes or the speedier tempo of culture-rich Marrakech.
The vibrant colors of this beautiful North African country will draw you in with ancient ruins, architectural wonders, picturesque ports, and the winding alleyways of the traditional souks.
The big cities are also perfectly placed to combine the city sights with desert exploration. Spend a few days enjoying the hustle and bustle of city life then unwind with the blissful seclusion of the Sahara Desert, with luxury desert tours from Marrakech, Casablanca and Fes.
So, what are the landmarks not to be missed in Morocco?
Jemaa el-Ffnaa
Majestic Marrakech is a city brimming with things to see and do. It is Africa’s ‘Capital of Culture’ and it’s easy to see why. Mouth-watering delicacies, eye-popping color palettes, and fantastic smells will keep you busy in the country’s fourth largest city.
Described by UNESCO as ‘one of the main cultural spaces in Marrakech’, the Jemaa el-Fnaa square is where popular Moroccan cultural traditions are performed through different expressions: artistic, musical, and religious — to name but a few. You can even witness the art of snake-charming! The square sits at the entrance of the medina and is surrounded by restaurants, allowing you to sample the local cuisines.
Maison de la Photographie
The Maison de la Photographie, also situated in the medina of Marrakech, celebrates the diversity of Morocco with photography from 1879 to 1960.
As well as photographs, the collection also includes postcards, maps, glass plates, newspapers, and documentaries. Maison de la Photographie describes itself as ‘an invitation to get to know Morocco better’.
The Hassan II Mosque
Casablanca, or ‘Casa’ as the locals call it, is the most cosmopolitan city in Morocco, and it is also the principal port. It is considered less touristy than some of the other landmarks and is home to another UNESCO World Heritage site: the Hassan II Mosque.
This is the 7th largest mosque in the world and the largest ‘functioning’ mosque in Africa, with the ability to hold 25,000 worshippers inside the building.
Al-Karaouine in Fes – The World’s Oldest University
The city of Fes has everything you come to expect from a Moroccan city: a medina, beautiful architecture, and centuries of history waiting to be explored. It is also the location of the oldest continually operating university not only in Africa but the world.
Al-Karaouine (also known as Al-Quaraouiyine and Al-Qarawiyyin) was founded in the 9th century and its distinctive ceramic green tiled roofs house a mosque, university, and library, with all four sides connected to the labyrinth of alleyways and streets.
Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga Desert Camps
For those seeking soothing silence and untouched beauty, look no further than the vast expanse of the deserts in Morocco. Say goodbye to the busy souks and grand architecture of the densely populated parts of the country, and say hello to the calm and quiet of the desert dunes.
Enjoy slow walks, cozy campfires and star gazing, or throw in some excitement with camel trekking and sand boarding. Towering peaks and striking colors await you at our Erg Chebbi luxury campsite.
Off the beaten track, you can experience true peacefulness in the comfort of luxury glamping accommodation with our Erg Chigaga camp. The journey to the campsite is part of the adventure, requiring a 4WD vehicle and nearly 40 miles off-road driving to get there!
Ouzoud Falls
Ouzoud Falls is a feast for the eyes and one of the most popular attractions in Morocco. This collection of waterfalls — located about 100 miles northeast of Marrakech, near the Middle Atlas village of Tanaghmeilt — cascades into the El-Abid River gorge.
Surrounding the falls is a blanket of vibrant green plantlife and olive groves contrasting with the fiery hues of the desert landscape.
Jardin Majorelle and the Berber Museum
For more Moroccan flora, a trip to the Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech is a must. The lively blues of the architecture, and the exotic botanicals that form this stunning oasis, inspired Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé (co-founders of YSL) to save the Jardin Majorelle from destruction in the 1980s.
As well as the garden, the site also has a boutique of handmade items by Moroccan artisans and the Berber Museum, celebrating the extraordinary creativity of the most ancient North African people: the Berbers (Imazigen).
Bahia Palace
If royalty and splendor excite you, Morocco has a selection of palaces to tour and admire. Allowing you to soak up the rich history of this beautiful country. Let’s explore Bahia Palace first of all!
Dating back to the 19th century, Bahia Palace is a sight not to be missed in Marrakech. Boasting the bold colors synonymous with this North African country, you will also find fancy fountains, intricate marquetry, and painted wood (zouak).
Not to mention the pièce de résistance: a 1,500 sq meter floor of Italian Carrara marble in the grand courtyard.
El-Badi Palace
Delving into palaces of the past, El-Badi Palace in Marrakech allows you to walk through history in this 16th century ruin now preserved as a heritage site. See how the Saadian dynasty lived 500 years ago.
The Royal Palace of Fes
In Fes, the Royal Palace — home to the King of Morocco — has original foundations dating back to the 13th century. The palace gates are a true testament to grandeur, making even the most statuesque person feel tiny.
We have only touched on what this country has to offer but we hope this brief guide to Morocco’s landmarks has inspired your next adventure. We love nothing more than to showcase the very best of Morocco — especially our 5-star reviewed luxury desert camps.
If you have any questions about our desert camps and the range of activities we offer, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
