Moroccan Magic

A two week detour to Morocco from the UK provided us with the opportunity to visit all nine Moroccan UNESCO sites which are scattered across the country. Most of the sites are living communities rather than just museums, providing an authentic look into Moroccan tradition and history. The Medina of each of the ancient cities are vastly different to the next with the fabulous chaos of Marrakesh and Fes being our personal favourites.

• Medina of Fes (1981): Known as the spiritual heart of Morocco, it features the world's oldest university (Al-Qarawiyyin) and a labyrinthine medieval city. The 9,000+ dead ends are best avoided by having a guide with you so you can best enjoy all the artisans and excitement in this Medina. Allow at least three days to appreciate Fes.

• Medina of Marrakech (1985): Famed for its red-clay walls, the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square, and the Koutoubia Mosque. An easy Medina to stroll and enjoy.

• Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou (1987): An exceptional example of earthen, pre-Saharan traditional architecture and a frequent filming location for movies. The internal walls of the village have become very touristic but the external view remains stunning.

• Historic City of Meknes (1996): An imperial city founded in the 17th century, known for its Spanish-Moorish style.

• Archaeological Site of Volubilis (1997): The best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, featuring impressive mosaics.

• Medina of Tétouan (1997): Formerly known as Titawin, this northern city highlights strong Andalusian heritage.

• Medina of Essaouira (2001): Formerly Mogador, a coastal town with a mix of European and Moroccan military architecture. A spacious and slower paced Medina right on the port.

• Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida) (2004): A fortified colony built in the early 16th century, representing an early exchange between European and Moroccan influences.

• Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City (2012): Recognized for the blend of its ancient Arab-Muslim history and modern European-style urban planning.

The Logistics:

• 15 days private driver tour

• 3 nights Marrakesh including a day trip to Essaouira

• 2 nights Casablanca (we would skip Casablanca next time and stay in Rabat)

• 1 nights Tetouan-brief stop Rabat

• 3 night Fes-brief stop Chefchaouen (Blue city), day trip to Meknes and Volubilis

• 1 night Tazrouft village via Midelt

• 2 nights Merzouga, Sahara Dessert. 1 night traditional riad, 1 night Berber desert camp

• 1 night Dades Gorge

• 1 night Marrakesh

The verdict;
Without question, one of the best decisions we made was hiring a driver with a spacious van. After thorough research, we connected with Ryad at Morocco Private Holiday, shared our itinerary, incorporated a few of his knowledgeable suggestions, and from there everything fell effortlessly into place.

What we loved;
Our journey into the Sahara, particularly our time in Merzouga, was the undeniable highlight. Staying in a Berber camp was an unforgettable experience, the vastness of the desert offers a rare sense of stillness, a place to pause, reflect, and truly listen to your bones.

Marrakesh and Fes stood out as our favourite cities, each rich in atmosphere and character, while our stay in Tazrouft felt especially traditional and memorable.

And, of course, the food. With such variety on offer, it’s impossible to overlook a well-made tagine. Morocco is also wonderfully accommodating for vegetarians, with a wide range of flavourful options that ensure no one goes without.

What we would change;
Next time, we would likely skip Casablanca. While the mosque, currently the third largest in the world, is undeniably impressive, it was the only highlight for us in the area we explored.

Although our visits were brief, Meknes and El Jadida felt comparatively quiet and lacked the same sense of vibrancy we found elsewhere.

What we recommend;
If UNESCO sites aren’t your primary focus, we highly recommend taking the eastern route from Marrakesh to Tetouan via Merzouga and Fes. Even better, consider doing it by campervan, Morocco is exceptionally well-suited to motorhome travel, offering both flexibility and a sense of adventure.

Morocco Private Holiday.

The Riad Jouba and Sahara camp are our recommendation. The camp is part of the Riad and the staff will seamlessly arrange everything you want or need, including transfers. The Riad is beautiful and spacious with outstanding staff. The food and staff service at the camp was incredible and somewhere we would stay again.

Our decision to stay in traditional Riads in the city Medina's was not disappointing. Hotels are on the outskirts of each city and we wanted to stay in the vibrant centres. Do your booking research first, read the reviews! Booking with breakfast will also help until you have learnt to live like a Moroccan.