Visa-free Morocco is back, and I highly recommend visiting in July or August because it's absolutely stunning!
The tale of One Thousand and One Nights begins in Morocco. This land of mystery and romance is half desert, half ocean, where ancient culture and warm-hearted people intertwine to create a unique North African charm. Follow this guide for an immersive experience of Morocco's allure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Discover Casablanca and the Majestic Hassan II Mosque
Arrive in Casablanca, the "White City" brimming with French romance and Islamic charm. Head straight to the Hassan II Mosque, a grand structure with one-third built over the Atlantic Ocean. Its pristine white walls glow with divine radiance against the ocean waves. At sunset, the mosque basks in golden-red hues, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow.
Day 2: Step Back in Time in Marrakech's Bustle
Travel from Casablanca to Marrakech, the "Red City" steeped in history. In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where snake charmers and acrobats perform, and food stalls fill the air with enticing aromas. As night falls, the square lights up, alive with the scents of spices and grilled meats.
Day 3: Explore Filming Locations and Desert Serenity
Stop by Ait Ben Haddou, a striking fortified village of layered earthen buildings featured in many films. Climb to the top for breathtaking desert views. Arrive in Ouarzazate by evening—a peaceful desert-edge town perfect for unwinding.
Day 4-5: Chase the Sahara Dream Under the Stars
Embark on a desert adventure, riding camels into the Sahara. Watch the dunes shift colors at sunrise and sunset. At night, lie on the sands beneath a sky full of stars, then join a lively Berber campfire with music and dance.
Day 6: Discover Fez, the Cultural Heart of Morocco
Leave the desert for Fez, the country's cultural capital. Explore its ancient tanneries, vibrant but pungent (bring mint leaves!). Every corner of the medina whispers history.
Day 7: Wander the Blue Lanes of Chefchaouen
Travel to Chefchaouen, a mountain town bathed in blue hues. Stroll its artistic alleys, snap photos, and relax in the square with local delicacies.
Day 8: Stroll Rabat, Farewell to Colorful Morocco
Visit Rabat’s Andalusian-style Kasbah of the Udayas, harmonizing with the blue coastline. Return to Casablanca to conclude this unforgettable journey.
Food Recommendations
- Tagine: Morocco’s iconic dish, slow-cooked in clay pots with tender meat/vegetables and rich broth. Pair with Moroccan bread for ultimate satisfaction.
- Couscous: Fluffy semolina topped with veggies and meat, bursting with wholesome flavors.
- Mint Tea: The national drink—refreshingly sweet with fresh mint, perfect for digestion.
- Pastilla: A unique sweet-savory pie filled with pigeon/chicken, wrapped in crispy pastry, dusted with cinnamon and sugar.
- Harira: A hearty Ramadan soup with tomatoes, noodles, meat, and spices—warming and nourishing.
Shopping Guide
- Leather Goods: Fez’s world-famous wallets/bags showcase exquisite craftsmanship and premium leather.
- Handwoven Rugs: Vibrant Moroccan patterns add character as floor coverings or wall art.
- Spices: Try "Ras el Hanout," a 30-spice blend to elevate home cooking with exotic flair.
- Silver Jewelry: Chefchaouen’s elegant designs blend tradition and modernity—ideal souvenirs.
Travel Tips
- Language: Arabic/French are main languages; English isn’t widespread. Download a translation app.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly for mosques (avoid shorts/skirts for women; neat attire for men).
- Transport: Negotiate taxi fares upfront. Allow extra time for city traffic.
- Currency: Exchange Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) at airports/banks. Some shops accept Euros, but carry local cash.
【Ait Ben Haddou】The ancient city is located in Ouarzazate, Morocco, in an oasis on the edge of the Sahara Desert. The entire castle is composed of traditional Moroccan mud houses, mostly built with a mixture of licorice and terracotta. The appearance is slightly rough, but at a glance outside the ancient city, you can be shocked by its spectacular and sacred pattern. As early as 1987, it was listed as a World Cultural Heritage. Walking into the ancient city, you will find that these golden red adobe castles and turrets seem to have drilled out from the ground, which are stunning and dramatic. People can't help but admire the local construction technology, especially under the sunlight, these castles are even more charming. This place not only attracts tourists from all over the world, but also Hollywood directors favor this charming ancient city. Many movies that are popular with movie fans around the world have been filmed here, including "The Lost Tomb", "Star Wars Prequel", "Mission Impossible V", etc., so the ancient city of Haddou has also won the title of Hollywood in North Africa and has become a holy place for many movie lovers. Time: 8:00-19:00 Address: Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, you must go there. Remember the scene where the Dragon Queen conquered Yunkai and the crowd lifted her up after she made the Emancipation Proclamation? The clay buildings in the back are the iconic buildings of Ait Ben Haddou.
This is a beautiful place, in the desert, with beautiful scenery, blue sky, and beautiful photos. It has ethnic characteristics. It is on a castle on a mound. On the top of the castle, you can make your own small pile of stones and leave your prayer wishes. Little Apple left her wish there and was very happy. There is a hollow wind tunnel in the middle, and the scenery taken from that cave is a blockbuster movie of Internet celebrities.
Ait Ben Haddou is a small village located in the Atlas Mountains in southern Morocco. The village was built in the 8th century AD. It is the most representative ancient village of the Berbers in Morocco and is known as the most beautiful ancient village in Morocco. We passed the small village before entering the desert. The red earth walls and earth houses are connected, which can not only resist foreign enemies but also provide living conditions. It is very unique. Many movies have been filmed here, and it is often used as a Hollywood film and television base. There are still residents in the village, most of whom are engaged in business. The bright colors are also a feature here. The ancient village was included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1987.
The entire ancient city is made of mud. In the early days, it was a village of the Berbers, the original inhabitants of Morocco. It is backed by the Atlas Mountains and faces the desert oasis. With such a beautiful composition, it is no wonder that Hollywood movies have traveled thousands of miles here to find filming locations. Movies such as "Star Wars Prequel" and "Murder City" were also filmed here. The city was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in 1987. We walked around inside and were more amazed the higher we went. This architectural structure is so interesting. The households are not far apart, but they are not on the same plane. The higher you go, the more you can see. It is shocking to reach the highest point! One can’t help but admire that an ancient village has been preserved to this day!
There is an ancient city called Ait Ben Haddou in Marrakech. The whole ancient city is made of mud. It was originally a village of the Berbers, the original inhabitants of Morocco. It is backed by the Atlas Mountains and faces the desert oasis. In such a beautiful environment, many movies have been shot here.
Itt Ben Haddou Village is a famous fortress village. In order to resist the harassment of bandits, the local indigenous residents built a tall fortress with watchtowers and arrow towers. Time flies, and heroes are gone! The fortress has been eroded by time and only its shell remains. Young people keep going out to make a living. The village is getting older day by day, and there are fewer and fewer things to see.