Central Morocco is a land of endless wonder. It’s characterized by russet dunes, lush palm oases, and snow-capped peaks—plus colorful souks, film-set kasbahs, and maze-like medinas that mix Arab, Berber, and Jewish cultures. Anchored by Marrakech to the west and the Sahara Desert to the east, this swath of North Africa has something for everyone. Top things to do in central Morocco include flying over the desert in a hot-air balloon, adventuring into the Atlas Mountains, and exploring the palaces, hidden gardens, and raucous markets of Marrakech.
Temperatures soar across central Morocco in the summer months (May through September), when the cities and towns are stifling and the desert simply dangerous. The milder months of spring and fall are the most popular, with balmy days and cool nights, but Morocco is a year-round destination. There are mild temperatures even in winter, though the nights get chilly. Keep in mind that most Moroccans fast during Ramadan in the early spring, so be respectful when grabbing a bite out and about.
Public transport in central Morocco is sparse and unreliable, dominated by a network of “petit taxis” (shared taxis for short trips) and “grand taxis” (shared taxis for trips between towns or villages). There is no train service in much of the region nor domestic flights. Though you can get around by rental car, poor signage and weak GPS signal make navigating on your own a challenge. The best option is a private car service with an experienced local driver.
For a truly Moroccan experience that will leave you relaxed and squeaky clean, visit one of the many hammams (bath houses) scattered across Marrakech and central Morocco. Choose between a straightforward public hammam or a more luxurious private one; both offer steam rooms, a spot to wash down with olive oil-based black soap and exfoliate with a kessa (scrubbing glove), and a relaxation area to massage in some argan oil and unwind.
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Yes, this vast area is one of the most captivating and varied parts of Morocco, home to both bustling cities and fortified villages, plus some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. Travel from the colorful markets of Marrakech to the vast dunes of the Sahara, with stops at oases and kasbahs in between.
...MoreCentral Morocco stretches from Marrakech in the west, to the desert outpost of Merzouga in the east. Farther west is the resort town of Essaouira and the Atlantic Ocean, while further east lies the great Sahara Desert. The area encompasses the High Atlas Mountains, with the lush Ourika Valley at the foot and Kik Plateau high above.
...MoreMost people in Central Morocco speak at least two languages and you’ll often find signage translated. The two most common (and official) languages are Arabic and Berber (or Amazigh), though there are many local dialects of each. French is also commonly spoken, as is English in the more touristy areas.
...MoreMarrakech draws throngs with its historic architecture and labyrinthine souks (marketplaces), while the Sahara Desert offers spellbinding dunes stretching beyond the horizon. In the middle of these two headliners are the Atlas Mountains and the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou (Ksar of Ait Benhaddou).
...MoreDedicate at least five days to central Morocco. Begin with 2-3 days in Marrakech to explore its cultural landmarks and markets, then take a day trip to the Sahara, taking in the Atlas Mountains, Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, and Todra and Dadès Gorges. And don’t forget to spend a night in the desert to marvel at the stars.
...MoreMorocco is a predominantly Muslim country and standards of dress skew towards modest (though you’re not expected to cover yourself completely and women don’t need to wear headscarves). Though temperatures soar in summer, avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops, and instead opt for light linen or cotton long pants and shirts that cover the shoulders.
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