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  >  Adventures Afield   >  Morocco Travel Guide: Cities, Food, Culture & Sahara Tours
Esteban and Danitza at Erg Chebbi

Morocco is a land of color, history, and adventure. From rolling olive groves to tall snowcapped mountains, from the golden Sahara Desert to busy city markets, Morocco is full of wonder. Its people and culture blend Berber, Arab, African, and European traditions, making it one of the most welcoming countries in the world.

Where is Morocco?

Morocco sits in the northwest corner of Africa, just across the Mediterranean Sea from Spain. With two coastlines, one on the Atlantic Ocean and one on the Mediterranean, Morocco offers beaches, deserts, and mountains all in one trip.

My Journey Through Morocco

Here is the details of our journey  start.

Fes and Volubilis

Our trip began in Fes, a city that feels like a living museum. The medina is filled with narrow streets, colorful shops, and centuries-old architecture. Walking through the UNESCO World Heritage site was like stepping back in time.

Not far from Fes, we explored the ruins of Volubilis, once the edge of the Roman Empire. The mosaics and stone arches have survived for centuries, and standing there gave me a sense of Morocco’s long, layered history.

Sahara Desert Adventure

Traveling across green hills and river valleys, the landscape slowly changed until we reached the Sahara Desert. At the edge of the dunes, we left our 4×4 SUV and climbed onto dromedaries—one-humped camels. Riding into the orange sands of Erg Chebbi at sunset was unforgettable. That night we stayed in a Berber camp with private tents, hot showers, and endless stars overhead.

Atlas Mountains and Kasbahs

From the desert we drove into the Atlas Mountains, where rivers cut deep ravines like the Todra Gorges. Villages with mud-brick kasbahs lined the valleys. The one that stood out most was Kasbah Amridil, with olive-oil presses, bread ovens, and hidden courtyards. It felt like history was alive around every corner.

Marrakech

In Marrakech, the energy of the medina pulled us in right away. We stayed at Riad Kniza, a traditional riad where the owner, Mohamed Bouskri, welcomed us like family. He not only runs the riad but also opened a cultural museum and boutique nearby. From our door, we could step directly into a maze of souks filled with spices, carpets, and lanterns.

Casablanca

Our last stop was Casablanca, a modern city with strong African influences. On the shore of the Atlantic, the Hassan II Mosque rises with incredible beauty. It is the largest mosque in Africa, and walking through it was the perfect ending to our Moroccan journey.

Food We Loved in Morocco

Moroccan food is part of the adventure. Some of the meals we enjoyed most were:

  • Tagine – slow-cooked lamb with apricots and almonds.
  • Couscous – light and fluffy, often served on Fridays with vegetables.
  • Pastilla – a sweet and savory pastry filled with chicken and spices.
  • Mint Tea – poured high into glasses, it was served everywhere we went.

Culture and Traditions

Everywhere we traveled, people greeted us with warmth and generosity. Sharing tea was a common welcome. In the markets, bargaining was part of the fun. Handmade carpets, pottery, and leather bags showed the artistry of Morocco’s people.

Best Time to Visit Morocco

  • Spring (March–May) – Lush green valleys and perfect weather.
  • Fall (September–November) – Great for desert and mountain trips.
  • Winter (December–February) – Snow in the Atlas, sunshine on the coast.
  • Summer (June–August) – Hot in the desert, cooler by the ocean.

Travel Tips We Found Helpful

  • Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
  • Languages: Arabic, Berber, and French.
  • Transport: Trains and private drivers made travel easy.
  • Dress: Modest clothing helped us feel comfortable and respectful.
  • Shopping: Bargaining is expected—start low and enjoy the exchange.

Morocco Awaits

Morocco gave us unforgettable memories—from riding camels into the Sahara to sipping mint tea in Marrakech. It is a place where history, culture, and hospitality meet. Whether you want adventure, food, or simply to explore somewhere new, Morocco will open its heart to you.

 

Start planning your journey: Visit Morocco

Danitza Villanueva, Travel Advisor. Danitza has lived in San Diego for 45 years and has a background in publishing. Danitza travels to different destinations and alongside her husband Esteban Villanueva and has visited over 58 countries around the world. As a founder of DAESVI Publishing, she has had the privilege to be invited to different locations throughout San Diego. My visits turn into articles which I share with our readers. I love traveling and embracing new adventures and experiences around the world. I have loved to visit Tahiti, Japan, Argentina, Scandinavia and the coastal regions of the US. She enjoys tasting the local food, experiencing rich history and exploring cities by foot. I want to share the process of planning and exploring adventurous itineraries.

advisor@escapadita.travel