Discovering the secret treasures of Morocco: A travelogue
Do you ever feel the need to escape from your daily routine and immerse yourself in a new culture? If so, grab your passport and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime! Join us on our journey through Morocco as we uncover its hidden treasures, taste delicious local cuisine, and dive into its rich history. From vibrant markets to stunning landscapes, this travelogue will leave you yearning for more. So fasten your seatbelts and let’s embark on a magical ride through one of Africa’s most enchanting destinations – Morocco!
What are the best hidden places in Morocco?
Morocco is a land of hidden treasures that are just waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s an ancient city, a beautiful waterfall or an unimposing village, Morocco has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to find secret treasures in Morocco:
1. Marrakesh – The bustling capital city of Morocco is home to countless hidden gems, like the Palais El Khayyam and Bazaar El Djem. Both museums offer a unique insight into Moroccan culture and history, while the bazaar is packed with souvenir stalls selling local handmade crafts.
2. Aït Benhaddou – This dramatic desert oasis is home to dozens of narrow passageways and caves that were used by the Berber tribesmen for centuries as hideouts from roaming bands of thieves and bandits. Today, these underground labyrinths are popular hiking trails and make for an unforgettable visit.
3. Chefchaouen – This charming mountain town is famous for its colorful souks (markets), where you can find traditional handicrafts from all over the country at unbeatable prices. Also worth exploring are the old medersas (religious colleges) scattered throughout town, many dating back to the 12th century AD.
4. Tiznit – This small town tucked away in the dusty Atlas Mountains has several charming cafes and bazaars offering a glimpse into local life centuries ago. It’s also worth checking out nearby Mount Toubkal , one of the highest peaks in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Ouarzazate – Nestled in an isolated valley between the Atlas and Rif mountains, this oasis is known for its spectacularly Unrealistic water sculpture created by the local kitesurfing community. For a more sedate visit, explore the town’s many small craft shops and enjoy a relaxing tea or coffee at one of its cafe’s during the afternoon sun.
How to get there?
To explore the treasures of Morocco, start by exploring the ancient city of Fez. Here, you can wander through winding lanes that lead to picturesque squares laden with centuries-old architecture. Nearby, Mhamid Safari Park is a great place to see some of the country’s wild animals in their natural habitat.
One of Morocco’s most beautiful destinations is Marrakesh. This bustling city is a popular stop for tourists who are interested in experiencing the decorative arts and Islamic traditions. Marrakesh is also home to some incredible antiquities, such as the Dar el Bahia animist shrine and the Palais des Sultanats—the former residence of the sultans of Morocco.
Not far from Marrakesh is Merzouga, a renowned desert destination known for its pink sand dunes and Canyon de Chella, one of the deepest and longest canyons in Africa. If you’re looking to get away from it all, head to Essaouira, a charming colonial town on the Atlantic coast that’s known for its lively nightlife and sandy beaches.
What to expect on a trip to Moroccan hidden treasures?
When traveling to Morocco, it is important to remember that there are many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. The country is full of ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and exotic animals and plants.
Here are four things you can expect on a trip to Moroccan hidden treasures:
1. You’ll be amazed by the ancient ruins in Morocco. From Volubilis, considered one of the most important archaeological sites in North Africa and the site of a major Roman city, to Ain Sofia, an incredibly well-preserved oasis town built in the 8th century AD, you’ll be awestruck by the magnitude and beauty of these sites.
2. Wildlife can be found all over Morocco, from colorful flamingos on the coast to rare Berber antelopes in the Saharan desert. If wildlife isn’t your thing or if you want to see more modern attractions such as grandiose architecture and vibrant neighborhoods, Morocco also has plenty of places for you to go shopping including Marrakesh’s famous souks (markets).
3. Morocco has some of Asia’s most dramatic mountains and deserts, making for some stunning landscape photos or hikes. The Atlas Mountains National Park is home to towering snow-capped peaks as well as dramatic gorges and washes filled with fauna such as blue wild horses and ibexes. Alternatively, head south into the Sahara Desert for a magnificent view of sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.
4. And finally, Morocco is full of vibrant and friendly cultures. Whether you’re looking to enjoy Moroccan cuisine, experience a traditional Berber bazaar, or just soak up some Moorish architecture, you’re sure to have a great time wherever you go in this enchanting country.
Tips for exploring these places yourself!
1. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, consider exploring the peaks and pistes of the Saharan Atlas Mountains.
2. For a more relaxed experience, head to Morocco’s seaside villages and towns, where you can wander the narrow lanes and admire the colorful tilework on centuries-old homes.
3. If you want to get really down to business, dig deep into Morocco’s rich archaeological heritage zones – like the Roman city of Volubilis or the Arabic-inhabited oasis city of Zaragoza.
Conclusion
Morocco is a stunning country with so much to offer tourists. From its glamorous cities, to its bountiful landscapes and beaches, it’s easy to see why people travel from all over the world to explore this lush corner of the world. In this travelogue, I have compiled a list of my favorite places in Morocco that are perfect for tourists who want an amazing adventure and plenty of memories to last a lifetime. So if you’re planning your next trip and want some ideas on where to go, be sure to check out my article!