The landscape in the Ourika Valley is about as amazing as it gets, and the lush, green fields on the valley’s floor add to the picturesque appeal. Towering above the fields below are the sides of the valley, which feature many a dramatic dropoff. During the warmer months of the year, the Ourika Valley tours center on hiking. When the weather cools and the winter snow starts to fall in the mountains, however, the Ourika Valley becomes a popular skiing destination. When planning a Morocco vacation, some travelers might not be aware of the fact that snow skiing can be part of the picture. Morocco is a country full of delights, and the great outdoors are primed for recreational activities of all kinds.

Eternal Morocco - Ourika Valley

Ourika valley - Marrakech - Morocco.

Ourika Valley with Ourika River

Ourika Valley

The Atlas Mountains, as seen from the Ourika valley

Ourika berbere village

Merzouga is the destination of choice for Moroccan tourists who are interested in seeing some of the mighty Sahara Desert. Travelers can also visit the town of M’Hamid when looking to enjoy some time in the Sahara, though it usually requires a trek across high mountains and remains a less popular option. Tourism is increasing in both destinations, and this has led to some issues with people trying to sell tours or hotel rooms.

Tourists are often approached repeatedly by salespeople in Merzouga especially, and it can be a big hassle. As such, many tourists arrange their tours and accommodations in advance. It is also possible to arrange desert tours at many of the Merzouga hotels, which is often pricier, though more convenient.

Ergs in Merzouga, Morocco.

Saharan Dunes Merzouga, Morocco

Riding a camel in Merzouga, Morocco

Merzouga, Morocco

Desert Patches Merzouga, Morocco

Taghazout is only twelve miles north of Agadir, which is the main beach resort in Morocco. Many Agadir visitors make a break for Taghazout Beach on the side, and they also look to explore the other beaches in the area. Some of the most pristine strips of sand in the entire country can be found to the north of Taghazout, and in addition to being good surfing spots, they can also make ideal romantic retreats. Anyone seeking some fun in the sun and some time on the beach is bound to enjoy a trip to Taghazout, and it is a destination that can be hard to leave once it is time to go.

Sunset in Taghazout.

Surffing in Taghazout.

Tamri Beach, 25km north of Taghazout

Sunset in Taghazout.

Mosque With Dam Beyond Taghazout

Mosques are places of worship for followers of the Islamic faith, and Morocco is home to many that tourists can check out while traveling through the country. Since most Muslims prefer to pray in a mosque and in the company of other Muslims, the mosques in Morocco tend to be quite large. One of the largest and most renowned mosques in the country is the Hassan II Mosque. Opened in 1993, this modern mosque was built to commemorate the 60th birthday of the former king.

Some 25,000 worshipers can fit inside the Hassan II Mosque, and the courtyards and squares outside can accommodate around 80,000 more. Non-Muslims can enter this gigantic facility, though they will have to book a guided tour. Once inside, most visitors are blown away by the amazing woodcarving, plasterwork, and tilework.

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca at night

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

The origin of this large square is unknown, as is the origin of its name, which can also be spelled Djemaa el Fna Square. Regardless of its relatively anonymous roots, the Jamaa el Fna Square is the main square in Morocco’s most popular tourist destination. Both locals and tourists take to it on a daily basis, and the scene during the day is quite different from the scene at night. During the daylight hours in the main Marrakech square, the western side tends to be relatively quiet.

Other parts boast monkey handlers, juice stalls, various street musicians, snake charmers, and other interesting entertainers and purveyors of oft-curious products. Water sellers with bright red hats add to the atmosphere with their traditional water bags and brass cups, though travelers should steer clear of their product, as the cleanliness of the cups is to be questioned. As the day wears on in Jamaa el Fna Square, the scene starts to change and other interesting characters arrive to entertain the masses.

Come late afternoon, acrobats take to the central open square in Marrakech, and various musicians and jugglers often show up as well to entertain passersby. Among the most popular late afternoon acts in Jamaa el Fna Square are the storytellers, who often attract sizable crowds. Sometimes, a musician will accompany the storyteller as he weaves his tales. Unfortunately, the storytellers in the main Marrakech square tend to direct their stories towards the locals, who speak Maghrebi. That being said, it is not necessary to understand the words to enjoy the experience. While a daytime visit to this Marrakech square is very rewarding, many tourists and locals prefer a nighttime visit, at least those who have eating in mind. This is when the best dining opportunities are to be had.

Jamaa El Fna Square, Morocco

Jamaa el Fna Square. Morocco

Main Public Square at Marrakech, Morocco

Morocco Marrakech Djemaa el Fna central square

Djemaa el-Fna (the square at the heart of the Marrakech Medina (old city))

Morocco is often referred to as a cold country with a hot sun

Ruled and contested by Berber dynasties and European countries, Morocco is a historically-rich African country that is as dynamic as it is enticing. Though it can be a bit stressful at times, Morocco travel is well worth it, especially since Morocco tourism on the whole is on the rise. The medinas, or old cities, of many a Moroccan city offer the quintessential Morocco travel experience, their narrow streets and lively souks (marketplaces) harkening back to earlier times.

Outside of the medina walls, newer parts of town reflect foreign interests and investments, while at the same time depicting the country’s overall move towards future growth. More and more upscale Morocco hotels are catering to the growing Morocco tourism demands, and expatriates are moving in with increasing frequency. Upon contemplation of the impressive Moroccan landscape, one quickly realizes just why so many people want to come here.

Morocco top attractions :

• Jamaa El Fna Square
• Medinas
• Merzouga
• Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca
• Ourika Valley
• Taghazout
• Tamuda Bay