Authentic Morocco: 10 Unmissable Cultural Experiences In Morocco
From camel rides across the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert and hiking in the High Atlas Mountains, to marveling at the intricate architectural details of Marrakesh’s mesmerizing mosques, the kingdom of Morocco has a host of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences in store for visitors.
Morocco’s cultural treasures and heritage are intricately woven into the fabric of its society and a kaleidoscope of intricate architecture, exciting cuisine and vibrant colors are waiting to dazzle your senses at every opportunity.
Here, we share 10 unmissable cultural experiences in Morocco that will ensure your private tour is unique, immersive and truly authentic.
1. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Jemaa el-Fna
The 1000-year-old Jemaa el-Fna Square is the heart and soul of Marrakesh, and a must-see while visiting the Red City. Spend the early evening in the bustling square exploring the artisan stands for original, hand-made crafts, story tellers, acrobats and dancing cobras. As the sun sets, head to a rooftop terrace at one of the tea salons in the square for views of the magical Jemaa el-Fna all lit up.
2. Get A Taste For Authentic Moroccan Tagine
An authentic tour of Morocco would not be complete without sampling the country’s finest, authentic flavors. A tagine is a stew-like dish made up of meats and/or vegetables that have been slow roasted with spices in a traditional North African conical clay pot, which is also named a tagine.
Considered a huge part of Moroccan culture and a staple of the country’s cuisine, savoring this local favorite is a must while traveling through the region.
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3. Explore The Highlights Of The Red City
Marrakesh, also known as the Red City, is home to some of Morocco’s most treasured landmarks. Journey through Marrakesh on your private tour and discover the unique history of Morocco and Northern Africa, including the intricately designed Saadian Tombs, the El Badhi Palace from the Saadi dynasty era and the largest mosque in Marrakesh, the Koutoubia Mosque .
4. Stroll Through The Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is a stunning botanical garden in Marrakesh. The garden, which was created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, took almost 40 years to complete and is filled with an array of beautiful exotic plants and a Cubist villa designed by a French architect, Paul Sinoir.
In the 1980s, the gardens were bought by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, and today house a beautifully curated museum in his honor – the Yves Saint Laurent Museum – as well as the fascinating Berber Museum that is also worth a visit.
These beautiful gardens make the perfect place for a calm morning stroll before beginning a day of exploration.
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5. Savor A Cup Of Moroccan Mint Tea
Mint tea is another important element of North African culture, signifying friendship and hospitality. Whether you’re enjoying it while watching the sun set over the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square in Marrakesh, after a hike through the High Atlas Mountains, or after a private camel trek through the seemingly endless Sahara Desert, it’s the perfect way to connect with and immerse yourself in local culture.
6. Hike In Mount Toubkal National Park
Located just outside of the bustling city of Marrakesh, Mount Toubkal National Park is a fantastic place to escape urban life and enjoy the natural landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains. On your private tour of Morocco, you can take advantage of this beautiful setting by mountain biking through the stunning Ouirgane Valley or hiking through the Valley of Asni to a small Berber village tucked away in the mountainside.
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7. Indulge In A Relaxing Hammam Experience
A hammam is a traditional Moroccan spa which promotes detoxification of the body through heat, soaps, salts, massage and exfoliation. It is a significant part of Moroccan culture, with most locals choosing to visit their local hammam at least once a week. As well as being a cleansing ritual, it’s also seen as an ideal time for socializing and catching up with friends.
Take a break from your busy tour of Morocco and find a moment to relax and unwind with a traditional hammam treatment. After all, it’s the perfect addition to an otherwise busy and adventure-packed journey. We recommend staying at La Mamounia Hotel or the Royal Mansour in Marrakesh for their superb hammam treatments.
8. Visit The Door Of The Desert, The Ouarzazate Region
The Ouarzazate region, situated 3,810 ft in the middle of a bare plateau, acts as a geographical gateway between the Sahara Desert and the lush green Skoura Valley. While it doesn’t attract as many visitors as some of Morocco’s more famous sights and regions, Ouarzazate is an ideal stopping point if you’re traveling from the Atlas Mountains or Marrakesh to the Sahara Desert, or onto the Skoura Valley, on your luxury Morocco tour.
Explore the rugged local landscapes of this unparalleled region—which has featured in several movies—and see for yourself why it is frequently called the “Door of the Desert.”
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9. Enjoy Privacy At A Luxury Sahara Desert Camp
Visiting the Sahara Desert is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience in Morocco. We recommend staying at a private luxury desert camp staffed with a chef and your own personal guides to make it even more special.
During the day, explore the sand dunes on private camel rides and visit nearby Berber villages; in the evening, dine on traditional Moroccan meals from the comfort of your private desert camp, accompanied by a campfire and traditional drum music.
We also recommend a unique astronomy experience under the Saharan skies with a local astronomer who will allow you to observe the night sky via telescope as you learn about the constellations of the stars visible from this region.
10. Discover The Old World Heritage Of Fes Medina
Founded in the 9th century, Fes replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom in the 13th century and remained so until 1920. Today, Fes Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for its many cherished historical highlights, including the Madersa Bou Inania, the Chouara tannery, the gates of Bab Bou Jeloud and the Royal Palace. The region is also the largest car-free urban area in the world.
A visit to Fes during your bespoke tour of Morocco will transport you back in time to a traditional Moroccan world of ancient customs and spirituality. Visit palaces, residences, mosques, and fountains from the 13th and 14th centuries, as well as the world’s oldest university, its famous leather tanneries, the intricate Bou Inania Madrasa and the venerated shrine of the founder of Fes, Moulay Idris II.
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