Souss-Massa-Drâa · Southern Morocco

Aït Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of a fortified earthen village — a ksar — built from sun-dried clay bricks. It represents one of the best-preserved examples of southern Moroccan vernacular architecture, and has served as a filming location for major international productions including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

• Accessible as a day trip from Marrakech (approx. 4 hours) or Ouarzazate (30 minutes), and frequently included in Sahara itineraries.
• A small river crossing leads to the main settlement; local guides at the entrance provide historical context.
• Carry small change — the crossing and some entrances involve informal fees of a few dirhams.

Béni Mellal-Khénifra · Central Morocco

The Ouzoud Waterfalls, located approximately 150 kilometres northeast of Marrakech, are among the tallest falls in North Africa, dropping around 110 metres through olive groves. The canyon supports a resident population of Barbary macaques, and boat rides beneath the main falls are operated by local guides.

• Plan for a full day; the drive from Marrakech takes approximately 3 to 4 hours each way.
• A well-maintained trail descends from the top viewpoint to the base pools — the lower vantage point offers the most complete view.
• The site is busiest on weekends; a weekday visit is generally quieter.

Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceïma · Northern Morocco

Chefchaouen, founded in 1471 in the Rif Mountains, is recognized for the blue-painted walls of its medina. The practice of painting buildings in shades of blue is historically associated with the town’s Jewish community. As one of the more photogenic places to visit in Morocco, the medina is best explored on foot without a fixed agenda.

• Located approximately 4 to 5 hours from Fes by road; combining both cities in a single trip is a common itinerary choice.
• The compact medina is manageable without a guide; most cafes and artisan shops line the central Place Uta el-Hammam.
• Early morning and late afternoon offer better light conditions and fewer crowds than midday.

Fès-Meknès · North-Central Morocco

Fes is home to Fes el-Bali, the largest car-free urban area in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 CE, is widely cited as the world’s oldest continuously operating educational institution. The Chouara Tannery continues to operate using methods that have changed little over centuries.

• Allocate at least two full days to cover the medina’s primary sites without feeling rushed.
• The tanneries are best viewed from the rooftop terraces of surrounding leather shops.
• Fes serves as a practical base for day trips to the Roman ruins at Volubilis and Moulay Idriss.

Drâa-Tafilalet · Southeastern Morocco

Merzouga sits on the edge of Erg Chebbi, one of Morocco’s largest dune fields, reaching heights of up to 150 metres. The area is the primary hub for camel trekking, overnight desert camping, and stargazing. This is, for many travelers, the single most impactful destination among all the places to visit in Morocco.

• The drive from Marrakech covers approximately 550 kilometres; a three-day round trip is standard, often routed via Aït Benhaddou and Todgha Gorge.
• Overnight camps range from basic to upscale setups; book in advance during peak season (October–April).
• Mobile connectivity is limited — charge all devices before departing Merzouga village.

Drâa-Tafilalet · Southern Morocco

Todgha Gorge is a narrow limestone canyon carved by the Todra River at the edge of the High Atlas Mountains. At its narrowest point, the gorge walls rise to approximately 300 metres while the floor narrows to around 10 metres. The surrounding area offers access to traditional Berber villages adapted to the pre-Saharan environment.

• The gorge entrance is accessible by car or taxi from Tinghir (approximately 15 kilometres).
• Guided hikes into the surrounding valleys and Berber villages can be arranged at the gorge entrance.
• Overnight accommodation is available in Tinghir, making it a comfortable midpoint on a desert itinerary.

Marrakech-Safi · Central Morocco

Marrakech is Morocco’s most internationally recognized city and the most common entry point for first-time visitors. Its medina — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 — centers on Djemaa el-Fna square. Bahia Palace and the Ben Youssef Madrasa are among the primary heritage sites within the medina. As the hub from which most routes to other places to visit in Morocco depart, Marrakech typically serves as both arrival point and base.

• Negotiate prices in the souk before purchasing — knowing approximate fair market values helps.
• Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa are within walking distance of each other and can be visited in a single morning.
• The area around Djemaa el-Fna is busiest at night; afternoon visits allow for easier navigation of the surrounding souks.