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7 Reasons Why Morocco Should Be Next On Your Travel Bucket List

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Atiqah Mokhtar •  Jan 07, 2019

Mention Morocco and it probably conjures images of bustling souks and exotic landscapes. But did you know that this North African country offers an amazingly diverse spectrum of offerings for travellers? From delicious food and historical sites to shopping havens, here are just a few reasons why you need to start planning that trip to Morocco!

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1. Wonderful (and halal!) cuisine

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Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, meaning you won’t have to worry about finding halal food!  And with delicious and unique flavours thanks to Morocco’s mix of Arabic, Mediterranean, and European influences, you’ll be in for lots of yummy meals ?

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Don’t forget to try famous staples such as tagines (dishes cooked in cone-shaped clay pots) and couscous (rice-shaped pasta usually accompanied by stewed meats). You’ll also want to have plenty of mint tea, which is a Moroccan specialty and can be found pretty much everywhere.

2. Desert splendour

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Ever dreamed of witnessing majestic sand dunes or go glamping by an oasis? Morocco is an ideal gateway to explore the majestic Sahara desert.

Travellers can go on excursions into the largest dry desert in the world from a number of Moroccan cities including Marrakesh, Agadir and Fez. There are a variety of tour options available, most lasting 3 days or more. Get set to choose your very own desert adventure, be it a trek on camelback or a luxurious tent set-up for a week. Either way, journeying to Morocco’s desert offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of exploring the beautifully remote Sahara.

3. Lively souks filled with artisanal wares

Morocco’s souks, or marketplaces, are a shopper’s paradise.  Think mesmerising labyrinths of shops selling hand-crafted goods and practically everything you can think of?

The best-known souks are located in the larger cities such as Marrakech and Fez, and are open every day. Haggling is a given, so get your bargaining skills on as you navigate the vast array of offerings. Don’t forget to check out popular souvenir items including leather goods, argan oil and handmade ceramics.

4. Beautifully distinct architecture

Whether you love beautiful buildings or are simply looking for that one-of-a-kind OOTD backdrop, Morocco is a treasure trove of design and architecture waiting to be explored.

From the mosaic wonders of riads (traditional Moroccan houses) to the stately beauty of landmarks such as the Hassan II Mosque, to the famous blue city Chefchaouen, Morocco offers several architectural gems that will marvel and inspire.

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For a unique local experience, you can consider staying in one of the many riads that have been converted to hotels and guesthouses, such as the popular Riad Yasmine and Riad Kniza in Marrakech.

5. Historical wonders

If you’re a history buff who’s fascinated to learn about past dynasties or see historical monuments, Morocco has you covered! The country has a rich history with influences from the Roman, Spanish and French empires, among others.  

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With so many historical sites in the country (including nine UNESCO Heritage sites), you’ll be spoilt for choice! Be sure to include the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, the Bahia Palace, the Amridil fortress and the Ksar of Ait-Ben Haddou among your list of must-visits.

6. Majestic mountains

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For a change of scenery, Morocco offers mountain landscapes that promise stunning views and a range of activities.

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The country has mountain ranges which make up the larger network of Atlas Mountains that stretch from Morocco to neighbouring countries Algeria and Tunisia.  The Moroccan ranges include the High Atlas, the Middle Atlas, and the Anti-Atlas, which provide beautiful views as well as plenty of attractions. Apart from hiking, trekking and other outdoor adventures, you would also be able to visit and learn about the mountain villages that exist there.

7. Lovely beaches and coastal towns

In addition to boasting scenic deserts and mountains, did you know that Morocco is also home to beautiful beaches and seaside towns? Thanks to its coastlines that stretch along the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco has several beautiful seaside destinations. Popular places include Agadir and the port town of Essaouira which sit on the Atlantic coast as well as Saidia along the Mediterranean coast.

Credit: Matthias Ripp on Flickr

Morocco promises a trip that has something for everyone – stunning scenery, a gastronomic haven, enlightening history, and the chance to immerse in the fascinating melting pot of influences that make up its culture and colour. Look no further, you’ve found your next bucket list destination. It’s time to start planning that trip! Check out this 7D6N itinerary we’ve crafted for the ultimate Moroccan adventure.