Best Morocco Tours from Barcelona

Travel Information for Morocco

Morocco is located in North Africa and, like Egypt, is one of the most popular destinations in North Africa. What sets Morocco apart from other destinations is its unique blend of snow-capped Atlas Mountains, vast Sahara dunes, and ancient local markets. This allows visitors to experience the distinctive exotic charm that is uniquely Moroccan. Whether you are looking for Morocco tours that focus on imperial cities or rugged Morocco desert tours, this guide provides the practical information you need to plan an efficient and enjoyable trip.

Morocco Visa Regulations

Before booking your trip to Morocco, it is important to check the entry requirements. Citizens from many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most European Union nations, do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

If you are from a country that is not visa-exempt, you must apply for an e-Visa or a standard tourist visa through a Moroccan consulate before your departure.

Best Time to Travel to Morocco

The best times to travel to Morocco are during spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to October. These periods feature mild weather, making them ideal for exploring the desert, coastline, and cities.

How Many Days in Morocco is Enough

For a first-time trip to Morocco, a duration of 7 to 10 days is usually sufficient to see the major highlights.

● 5–7 Days: Ideal for a focused trip, such as exploring Marrakech and taking a short excursion to the nearby mountains or embarking on a 2-day desert trip.

● 10 Days: This allows for a more comprehensive circuit, including the Imperial Cities (Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, and Meknes) and a night in a Sahara desert camp.

● 14 Days or More: Ideal for travelers who want to add the northern Blue City of Chefchaouen, the coastal towns, and more remote trekking routes in the south.

Top Cities in Morocco

Marrakech: Morocco's most popular city, featuring stunning red walls, is the top choice for first-time visitors to Morocco.

Casablanca: Morocco's largest city, offering coastal views.

Fes: This medieval Islamic city boasts the world's oldest university, alongside traditional crafts and leather tanneries.

Popular Morocco Attractions

Morocco’s attractions are a mix of architectural marvels and natural wonders.

● Jemaa el-Fnaa (Marrakech): The central square comes alive at night with food stalls, musicians, and performers.

● The Medina of Fes: This car-free urban area is a labyrinth of over 9,000 alleys filled with shops, mosques, and schools.

● Hassan II Mosque (Casablanca): An iconic landmark built partly over the Atlantic Ocean, featuring a 210-meter minaret.

Bahia Palace (Marrakech): A 19th-century palace showcasing intricate Islamic tilework and carved cedarwood.

Natural Sites and Landscapes

● The Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi & Erg Chigaga): These massive sand dunes provide a classic desert experience. Activities include sandboarding and watching the sunset over the horizon.

● The High Atlas Mountains: Home to Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. This area is perfect for trekking and visiting traditional Berber villages.

● Todra Gorge: A series of limestone river canyons that offer spectacular views and rock-climbing opportunities.

● Ouzoud Waterfalls: Located near Marrakech, these are the highest falls in the country, surrounded by olive trees and inhabited by wild monkeys.

Get Around Morocco

Trains: The ONCF rail network connects major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. The Al Boraq high-speed train significantly reduces travel time between Tangier and Casablanca.

Buses: Companies like CTM and Supratours offer reliable, air-conditioned coaches that reach towns not served by trains.

Grand Taxis: These are shared long-distance taxis (usually Mercedes-Benz sedans) that operate on fixed routes between towns.

Private Tours: Many travelers choose organized Morocco tours that provide a private driver and vehicle, which is the most flexible way to see the desert and mountain regions.

7-Day Morocco Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca, visit the Hassan II Mosque, Morocco's largest mosque, and stroll along the Corniche.

Day 2: Travel to Rabat to explore the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Kasbah of the Udayas.

Day 3: Arrive in Chefchaouen and stroll through its blue alleys. Explore Plaza Uta el-Hammam.

Day 4: Explore Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a visit to the Chouara Tannery.

Day 5: Start your desert journey, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains via Ifrane, and arrive at the Merzouga Desert.

Day 6: Witness the desert sunrise, then drive to Todra Gorge before arriving in Ouarzazate.

Day 7: Visit Ait Ben Haddou, the filming location for Game of Thrones, then proceed to Marrakech.

Moroccan Cuisine

Tagine: Morocco's most iconic dish, typically featuring chicken, beef, or lamb.

Couscous: Coarsely steamed wheat served with stewed meat and vegetables, often accompanied by chickpeas and meat broth.

Msemen: Layered pancakes, served with honey, cheese, or savory spreads.

Harira: A thick tomato and bean soup containing lentils, chickpeas, and spices.