Types of Travel in Morocco

Themes

Interests (rated ): Nature ; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation-holidays

Nature-adventure

Morocco offers countless opportunities for nature-adventure travel. The entire Rif and Atlas mountain ranges are rich in parks, open spaces, and all kinds of outdoor activities. And then, of course, there’s the South—or even the Far South—with Western Sahara, which will delight even the most demanding nature lovers.

Culture

Beyond discovering the daily life of local populations and the contrasts between the mountainous north and the desert south, many cities with their medinas and kasbahs invite exploration. Along the coast, several port cities still bear witness to French, Spanish, or Portuguese presence in the country.

Relaxation-holidays

If you want to enjoy the sea, Agadir traditionally dominates this category. However, Morocco has other seaside resorts, including along the Mediterranean coast between Al Hoceima and Saïdia. Otherwise, Marrakech is also, in some ways, a relaxation-holiday destination.

Independent travel

For independent travellers, Morocco is a beginner-friendly destination thanks to good infrastructure (transport, accommodation), ease with the language, and low risks. In fact, the country can be a great choice for a first trip outside Europe or Canada.

Organised travel

Morocco is, of course, well-represented in travel agencies’ catalogues for trips departing from Paris and other major French cities.

You’ll easily find all kinds of packages: circuits, stays, trekking, “adventure,” “luxury,” à la carte services, etc. What’s more, the destination remains very affordable, even for organised travel, with numerous promotions available year-round.

All-inclusive

Unlike other similar countries, all-inclusive packages are only moderately developed in Morocco. That said, offers abound year-round from Paris and elsewhere.

Two cities dominate most opportunities: Agadir, with beach-oriented stays, and Marrakech, for exploring the city and its surroundings. So, if you’re looking for a beach holiday, Agadir is your best bet.

Family

Morocco is a dream destination for family holidays, even with young children. Beyond being easy to travel and having decent infrastructure, its diversity and uniqueness mean it will appeal to everyone. Plus, children are truly treated like royalty in Morocco, and travelling as a family will open many doors and make interactions much easier.

To do

Rent a vehicle to be independent and adapt your travel pace to the children’s needs.

See the desert and its dunes, enjoy a camel ride, and spend a night under a tent.

Organise short donkey rides, especially if parents plan to do some hiking.

Discover animals (goats, monkeys, storks...)—not all are exotic, but they often delight children.

Enjoy the sea, particularly around Agadir.

Stroll through the souks during off-peak hours.

Experience the spectacle of Djemaa el Fna square in Marrakech at the end of the day.

To avoid

Visiting the interior, especially the south, in summer, when the heat may be too much for young children.

Taking shared taxis (louages), where you’ll be crammed in.

Travelling outside tourist areas during Ramadan, when it can be hard to find an open restaurant in some places.

Senior

Given their numbers, Morocco is a popular destination for seniors, whether for holidays or retirement (there are even incentives for this). The country presents no particular difficulties, and the cost of living is significantly lower than in Europe. Additionally, Morocco has fairly good (private) healthcare infrastructure. In short, a great destination...

Female traveller

Travelling as a woman in Morocco doesn’t pose real "dangers," though a few precautions are necessary, as anywhere, and modest clothing (outside beach resorts) is expected. However, solo female travellers will be frequently approached by Moroccan men, which can become tiresome over time.

As always, the best way to stop unwanted attention is to say you’re married or about to meet your husband. As a last resort, mentioning the tourist police can also have an effect...

LGBT

Homosexuality is punishable by prison under Moroccan law (several Moroccans were still convicted in 2016), and it is generally not accepted by the population, Moroccan society, or—even less so—religion. So, in all cases, discretion is key, though the actual risks for foreigners, unlike Moroccans, are quite low. That said, things are easier in Marrakech and Agadir.

Note that while it’s common to see two men holding hands in Morocco, this is simply a sign of friendship.

Disability

Few hotels or transport services are truly equipped for wheelchair users. However, with some advance planning, a trip to Morocco is entirely feasible.