Visiting Morocco had been a dream of mine for as long as I could remember. I’d always imagined seeing camels, camping in the desert, wandering through maze-like medinas, and sipping tea with Berbers. When I finally stood overlooking the Sahara, gazing at the endless dunes, I couldn’t believe it—I was really there, under the same stars I had once only dreamed of.
For two weeks, I traveled across Morocco, eating my weight in couscous, drinking mint tea, hiking through stunning landscapes, and soaking in the culture. It was a sensory overload, full of surprises and unforgettable moments. Here are 11 reasons why I fell in love with Morocco—and why you will too:
- Sleeping Under the Stars in the Sahara
Camping in the Sahara was an experience I’ll never forget. Sleeping under the stars with no light pollution and the silence of the desert was pure magic. The peacefulness when the wind stopped was incredible. And, unexpectedly, it rained while I was there—lightning struck, thunder rumbled like a thousand bombs, and the night lit up as if it were day. It was surreal. - Hiking the Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains, which stretch across much of Morocco, were a highlight of my trip. We hiked through low, middle, and high parts of the range, and my favorite was the High Atlas. After a climb, we stayed with a local family in a small farmhouse. The hike itself was amazing, with riverbeds and stunning views of Mt. Toubkal. There are also affordable day trips from Marrakesh to explore this area. - Eating at Café Clock
I kept hearing about Café Clock in Marrakesh and Fez, and it didn’t disappoint. Known for its gigantic camel burger, the food was incredible. Between the burger, green smoothies, and melt-in-your-mouth couscous, I was hooked. Plus, the cafés offered a peaceful escape from the chaos of the medinas, with Wi-Fi and air conditioning. They even host cooking classes! - Getting Lost in the Medinas
The medinas, the ancient heart of Moroccan cities, are full of winding streets, markets, and homes. I loved getting lost in them—each turn brought something new, whether it was a bustling plaza, a hidden shop, or a tasty food stall. Fez’s medina can be a bit sketchy, though, so stay on the main paths, especially in crowded areas. - Exploring Volubilis
Volubilis, an ancient Roman trading center, is one of the best-preserved ruins I’ve seen. Unlike most sites, it’s not crowded with tourists, so you can explore at your own pace. The raw, unexcavated parts of the site give it a unique, untouched feel. It’s definitely worth a visit, especially since it’s just a 1.5-hour drive from Fez. - Seeing Aït Benhaddou
Though I didn’t get to spend too much time here, Aït Benhaddou was a highlight. This kasbah, which has appeared in films like Game of Thrones and Gladiator, is stunning. The iconic clay buildings and breathtaking views from the top make it one of Morocco’s most picturesque spots. - Enjoying the Beach and Seafood of Essaouira
Essaouira, on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, was my favorite city. With its relaxed vibe, fresh seafood, and cool sea breeze, it felt like a perfect escape. We visited the fish market, where we bought fresh catches and then enjoyed them at a nearby stall. For just $75 USD, we shared lobster, prawns, fish, and squid—a feast to remember! - Visiting Marrakech
Marrakech is everything you imagine—a vibrant mix of Moroccan culture and international influences. The Jemaa el-Fnaa square is chaotic and full of life, with food stalls, entertainers, and crowds of people. It’s the heart of the city, and whether you want to dive into the madness or take a more relaxed approach, it’s a place you can’t miss. - Eating Lots of Couscous and Tagine
By the end of my trip, I was almost “couscoused out,” but I couldn’t resist diving into as much as I could. The flavors were incredible, and tagine quickly became my favorite dish. I also tried the Berber omelet, a delicious combination of eggs, tomato, onion, and herbs cooked in a clay pot. If you’re a foodie, take a cooking class—it’s the perfect souvenir! - Drinking Mint Tea
In Morocco, tea is more than just a drink—it’s a way of life. I drank more mint tea than I ever have in my life. The pouring technique is an art, and I quickly became addicted to this sweet, minty beverage. I must’ve had a pot or two every day, sitting in tea shops and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Morocco is a place that will test your senses, but in the best way. It can be chaotic, overwhelming, and at times, a bit stressful, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s a country that makes you feel like you’re truly somewhere different, and that’s what makes it so special.
