6 Experiences That Will Make You Want To Travel To Morocco

Morocco is a country that has such a diverse mixture of Berber, Roman, Arab and French (among the many) influences in its architecture, cuisine, and ways of living. Whether you plan to take a trip to Casablanca, Fez, or Marrakech, you will not regret booking a trip to Morocco because there’s always something fun for you to do. These experiences in Morocco are definitely worth making the trip for.

Hassan II Mosque (Casablanca)

Casablanca has been made famous as the title and setting for the 1942 Humphrey Bogart film (…you guessed it, Casablanca), and has been in pop culture ever since. However modern Casablanca isn’t much like the film at all. Casablanca is known for its signature architectural style (among many, many other things). This particular mosque, designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau, took about 14 years to complete.

Dinner at the Djemma El Fa in Marrakech

Djemma el Fa is located in Marrakech’s main square. It is essentially a marketplace where local musicians, cooks, and craftsmen seek to sell their uniquely made products. It was even officially deemed as a ‘Masterpiece of World Heritage’ by UNESCO for continuing the traditions of urban legends and oral history. You may visit at any time of the day, but it’s recommended that you go during sunset because that’s when the musicians really get the festivities started as the chefs turn up the grill. Come by and try the flavorful drinks and food, take a chance on a henna tattoo, and enjoy the live comedy skits as you take in the beauty all around!

The Tanneries in Fez

The town of Fez has one of the most traditional feels to it because not much has changed since its inception in the 8th century. The medina is a great location to buy fish, spices, and carpets from the local merchants, but it’s most famous for its leather products. Here you can find the Chouara Tannery which is almost 1,000 years old and essentially replicates the same procedure to make the leather for centuries. These tanneries process the hides of cow, sheep, goats, and camels and turn them into high quality leather products. We recommend you visit one of the leather shops where you can find a salesperson who tells you all about the process required to make leather and the best view from their terrace.

Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are worth a journey to Morocco because they feature some of the highest peaks in all of North Africa. The landscape spans 1,553 miles (2,500 kms) across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia but the highest is Toubkal, which has an elevation of 4,167 meters on the Morocco side. The region is home to a vast number of plants and animals including sheep and gazelles. You may choose to book a days-long expedition to sight-see and climb the slopes and maybe even cross Tizi n Tichka’,\ the highest mountain pass in North Africa that links the cities of Marrakech and Ouarzazate. Perhaps you would rather book a hotel which may be found in the areas of Ourika Valley, Ouirgane, and Imlil. The High Atlas Mountains are worth a trip because it is the most easily reached section of the Atlas Mountains and only a two hour drive from Marrakech.

Volubilis Roman Ruins

The Volubilis Roman Ruins are at an out of this world experience for the curious traveler. They were a once thriving Berber settlement that was constructed during the 3rd century BC. The Berbers relinquished control of this city to the Romans who were in power from 1st century AD and onwards. They lost complete control of this fortress during the year 285 when local tribes took over the land. While there, you must take a gaze at the Basilica and the Capitoline Temple which are still clearly visible. The Basilica was the building used for the administration of justice while the Capitoline Temple was dedicated to the three chief divinities of the roman state, Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva.

Ouzoud Falls

These picturesque falls are located northeast of Marrakech in the province of Azilal. It’s the most visited location in the region and you can explore the orchards and green valleys that are within walking distance of this gorgeous waterfall. At Ouzoud Falls, not only can you find amazing vistas of the African landscape, but you might also spot one of the macaque monkeys that live nearby (they are friendlier than you think!). Ouzoud falls makes for a fantastic place to bring snacks for a picnic to have the time of your life with nature and your loved ones of choice.

This article originally appeared on Demand Africa.

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