7 Cultural Highlights You Can’t Miss On A Morocco Tour

Morocco is a culture-splendid nation with beautiful landscapes and lively cities that combine old and new. The busy souks in Marrakech are just a step from the serene beauty of the desert in the Sahara. Every region in the nation is a story in itself.

So, whether you are walking in centuries-old medinas, experiencing Berber culture, or relishing traditional food, Moroccan culture is not something you will likely forget.

If you plan a trip to this North African gem, these seven cultural experiences are a must-do. Each will give you a deeper understanding of Morocco’s history, culture, and daily life, making your trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Read on to learn more about the culture you can’t afford to miss on a tour in Morocco.

1. Exploring the Ancient Medina of Fez  

One of the world’s oldest and most intact medieval cities is in Morocco’s religious and cultural hub, Fez. The medina of Fez el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow passageways lined with bustling souks, old mosques, and lovely madrasas.

While strolling its winding streets, you will meet master craftspeople busy with traditional crafts, from intricately detailed tilework to leathers worked with a craftsman’s care.

One of its prime attractions is the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD and included in a list of the world’s oldest schools.

Visiting the medina is a step into a bygone era with a look into Morocco’s extensive historical context as much as its established tradition. To fully explore Fez and some of the country’s other gems, consider booking Morocco travel packages that involve guided experiences and more in-depth explorations into the nation’s culture.

2. The Bustling Souks and Squares of Marrakech  

Marrakech is a city that never sleeps, and nowhere is this more evident than in its lively souks and famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. By day, the square is filled with snake charmers, street performers, and market vendors selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to fragrant spices.

With sundown comes a more lively mood, with traditional artists, storytellers, and food vendors presenting spicy Moroccan fare.

In addition, venturing around the souks in Marrakech is a treat. The souks are a maze-like series of brightly colored stalls that display everything from intricately patterned carpets to painted pottery.

Lastly, bargaining is a central part of shopping, and shopping with local vendors is a great way of experiencing Moroccan culture in addition to shopping.  

3. Experiencing Berber Hospitality in the Atlas Mountains  

The Atlas Mountain chain stretches across Morocco, with its spectacular scenery and possibilities for encounters with native Berber culture. A visit to a Berber village looks into a traditional existence largely undiminished over centuries.

One of the experiences you will not want to miss when visiting the Atlas Mountains is having a meal with a local household. The local Berber foods that are traditionally served are tagine and homemade bread with Moroccan mint tea, which makes you feel at home.

Some villages also feature traditional Berber music and dance performances. 

4. Discovering the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen  

Chefchaouen is a small Rif Mountain town that is famous for its lovely blue-painted streets as well as its peaceful surroundings. The beautiful small town is a photographer’s dream, with a new shade of blue around each turn, from light pastels to inky blues.

Aside from its lovely scenery, Chefchaouen also has a tremendous Andalusian-Moroccan-influenced culture. The relaxed vibe in Chefchaouen is perfect just to wander around, explore local craft boutiques, and have a traditional mint tea in a secluded coffee shop. 

5. Crossing the Dunes of the Sahara Desert  

One of the most captivating experiences that Morocco has in store is a desert adventure into the Sahara. The desert sands at Erg Chebbi, on the outskirts of Merzouga, are perfect for a sundown ride on a camel, a journey that transports you into a bygone epoch of desert caravan travel.

An evening in a desert camp amidst a blanket of stars is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Berber music, campfire storytelling, and desert silence create a feeling of awe and oneness with nature.

The Sahara offers a rare chance to experience elegance and simplicity far from the chaos of urban life. 

6. Exploring the Historic Kasbahs of Ouarzazate  

Some of Morocco’s finest kasbahs can be seen in Ouarzazate, called the “Gateway to the Sahara.” The old fortresses made out of clay and straw demonstrate Morocco’s great architectural tradition.

Most prominently, Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a star in a series of films and TV series, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

Walking through the winding alleys of Ait Benhaddou feels like stepping into history. The kasbah’s well-preserved towers and courtyards offer breathtaking views of the desert landscape.  

Aside from its screen glory, Ait Benhaddou is a living testament to Morocco’s heritage, with many families continuing to live in its old walls. A visit at dawn or dusk makes it more enchanting as its earth-colored buildings are bathed in gold light from the rising or setting sun, a captivating vision.

7. Savoring Moroccan Cuisine  

No trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing its globally acclaimed food. Moroccan food is a combination of Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean foods, which gives birth to flavorful foods with aromatic spices.

Classic dishes like lamb tagine, couscous, and harira soup are a must-have, each with a flavor that reflects Morocco’s rich culinary tradition.

For a more genuine experience, you can also take a cooking lesson, during which local chefs will instruct you in traditional food preparation.

Stopping at a neighborhood market to shop for ingredients and explore the secrets of Moroccan mixtures of spices allows each dish that much more depth of appreciation. 

Wrapping Up

Morocco captivates travelers with its rich culture, wonderful scenery, and hospitable hospitality. Whether you walk in old medinas, ride camels over desert sands, or relish traditional Moroccan cuisine, each activity familiarizes you with the nation’s culture and tradition.

With these seven highlights of culture, you will have a genuine appreciation for Morocco’s diversity and beauty.