5 Morocco Festivals

morocco festivals
Morocco festivals: From the bustling medinas of Marrakech to the serene oases of the Sahara Desert, this North African gem is home to a diverse array of celebrations that paint the country in a kaleidoscope of colors and rhythms
our real morocco  tour packages offer the flexibility for our clients to attend festivals along their trip and experience local, authentic Moroccan culture.  Welcome to a world where ancient customs and modern festivities merge seamlessly, where the scent of spices mingles with the beat of drums, and where the spirit of unity and joy fills the air. In this blog post, we will share some of our tips for attending local festivals and some of our favorite festivals throughout the year.
A few tips…
  • While many festivals are free to attend, some may have a small fee to pay for entrance.
  • Many festivals in Morocco are held outdoors, so be sure to dress accordingly.
  • Bring along your phone or camera so that you can capture the amazing artwork and details of the festival.
  • Most importantly, be sure to be respectful of the artists and do not touch or damage their work.
While there are truly so many to choose from, these are our favorite Moroccan festivals…
Dates vary so please inquire with Genuine Morocco for more info!
Jidar Morocco (Rabat): This amazing street art festival takes place in Rabat, Morocco’s capital. The festival features international and local artists who create large-scale murals and installations throughout the city. While visiting Morocco, consider a tour of this festival.
Jidar Street Art Festival
Credit: Jidar Street Art Festival Facebook Sbagha Bagha (Casablanca): Sbagha Bagha was started in 2015 by French artist MehdiQ Benyamin and aims to promote positive social change through art. This festival has produced incredible murals throughout the city.
January
Yennayer (Morocco & Algeria): The Berber community of Morocco celebrates the Amazigh New Year on January 12th and 13th. This is the most traditional Morocco festivals occur in the middle Atlas, where Berber tribes sing, dance, and prepare couscous in hopes of a prosperous agricultural year ahead. Other cities across Morocco also organize events and celebrations to mark the occasion.
February
Almond Blossom Festival (Tafraoute): Morocco’s almond-producing capital, Tafraoute has historically held a small agricultural gathering every year to sell almond products and celebrate the year’s harvest. The location celebrations include traditional Berber music, dance and theater. There are tons of market stalls and stage performances throughout the city, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
March
Nomads Festival (M’Hamid El Ghizlane, 60 km south of Zagora): This free open-air event celebrates all aspects of nomadic culture. Local, national and international artists are all invited to share their poetry, dance, music, storyselling, and handicrafts.
April
Festival Jazzablanca (Casablanca): This festival is held every year in Casablanca and presents many jazz fusion concerts, including both Moroccan and international jazz singers. In addition to the concerts, they also offer jazz initiation workshops, meetings with artists (for VIP guests), improved music sessions and parades throughout the streets. At the end of the concerts, there are often after parties which can last until the late hours of the night.
Jazzblanca
Credit: Jazzblanca Facebook.
May
The Festival of Roses (El Kelaa M’Gouna, 80 km north of Ouarzazate): This is one of the prettiest celebrations in Morocco, dedicated to commemorating the season’s rose harvest. Along the narrow streets of the souk in El Kelaa M’Gouna, also known as the Valley of Roses, you’ll find delicious food stalls, Berber dancers and singers, and even a parade of floats.
June
Marrakech Festival of Popular Arts (Marrakech): Founded in 1960, it is one of the oldest festivals in Morocco. This festival is a cultural event that reflects the richness and diversity of folk arts in Morocco, but also an artistic event that has always been open to the international audience through the participation of groups from all over the world in the spirit of sharing cultures. It showcases dances, songs and costumes including Atlas dances, Gnaoua dances, Saharan dances, and more.
Marrakech Festival of popular arts
Credits: National Festival of Popular Arts website.
July
Alegria Festival (Chefchaouen): Over the course of 2 days, this festival celebrates culture and diversity throughout Morocco. Musical performances, photography exhibitions, local talent shows and traditional foods fill the streets showcasing the best of Moroccan and international culture.
August
The Moussem Moulay Abdellah Amgha (El Jadida): This is a fascinating religious and cultural festival honoring the Sufi Saint Abdallah Abou Lmahasin Mohammed Amghar. During this festival, you can see Moroccan folklore art including fantasia performances, traditional orchestras, songs and dances.
September
Oasis (Marrakech): The Oasis festival is the first to set the bar so high on the African continent. It showcases the best of house, disco and electro music. Facing the Atlas Mountains, you can enjoy a beautiful landscape and dance to lively music all night long. The lineup features international talent and famous DJs from all around the world, as well as from the burgeoning Moroccan music scene. It is held every September for three days.
October
The Dates Festival (Erfoud): This highly recognised festival attracts thousands of visitors to Erfoud every year to taste the fruits of the harvest, attend processions and concerts. The Guetna or date festival is intended to close the harvest. There are folklore shows, camel races and other fun performances. They also elect the queen of dates and she is awarded with traditional jewelry and a crowd of admirers will ask for her hand in marriage.
November
Saffron Festival (Taliouine): Held in the heart of Morocco’s saffron producing region, Taliouine lies south of Marrakesh and east of Taroudant. The city itself is small – just under 6,000 people – but produces more saffron than any other place in Africa. Every November, a festival is held at harvest time and people from around the world come to watch and celebrate.
saffron festival
Credit: Arab News
December
Tan Tan Moussem (Tan Tan): This festival brings together more than 30 tribes from southwestern Morocco and other parts of northwest Africa to worship, exchange stories, dance, and compete in camel races. Reach out today to book your Morocco travel with Genuine Morocco. Check out these other resources to learn more about Moroccan culture and festivals.

Moroccan Travels End of year Itinerary

private morocco tours

Moroccan travels This December, we are excited to offer a 10-day Discover Moroccan Travels Tour, a perfect opportunity to ring in the New Year while exploring Morocco’s vibrant cities, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, this journey promises a seamless blend of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

You’ll start your Moroccan travels in Casablanca, the country’s economic hub known for its stunning mix of modern and traditional architecture. From there, you’ll travel to Rabat, Morocco’s charming capital, and continue through cities steeped in history such as Fès, Meknes, and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Throughout your Moroccan travels, you’ll experience the grandeur of imperial cities, the serenity of the desert, and the welcoming warmth of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and people.

One of the highlights of this tour will be a magical night under the stars in the Sahara Desert near Merzouga, where you’ll sleep in a traditional Berber tent, enjoy authentic music around the campfire, and marvel at the clearest night skies you’ll ever see. As we continue our Moroccan travels through the dramatic gorges and scenic valleys, you’ll visit historic kasbahs, stroll through picturesque palm groves, and wind your way through bustling souks in Marrakech.

As you close out the year with this adventure, each day will bring a new sense of wonder, from cultural immersion to natural beauty. If you’re looking for a unique way to end the year while blending history, culture, and stunning landscapes, this tour is perfect for you and your Moroccan travels.

Sample Itinerary

Here’s an example of what your 10-day adventure could look like, though we’re always happy to tailor it to meet your interests:

Day 1: Dec 23 – Arrival in Casablanca
Arrive at Casablanca International Airport, where our representative will greet you. After a brief city tour showcasing Casablanca’s stunning street art and landmarks, such as the Hassan II Mosque, you’ll have time to settle in before overnighting in the city.

Day 2: Dec 24 – Casablanca to Rabat
After breakfast, drive to the capital city, Rabat, where you’ll visit the Royal Palace and the iconic Hassan Tower, an impressive remnant of a mosque that was never completed. You’ll also explore the city’s charming medina and spend the night in Rabat.

Day 3: Dec 25 – Rabat to Fès (via Volubilis & Meknes)
On Christmas Day, we’ll travel through the heart of Morocco, stopping at Volubilis, an ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins. Then we’ll head to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, to visit its medina and the imposing Bab el-Mansour gate before arriving in Fès for the night.

Day 4: Dec 26 – Fès City Tour
Spend the day exploring Fès, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll wander through its labyrinthine medina, discover hidden treasures in the souks, and learn about Morocco’s deep cultural and religious heritage during your Moroccan travels.

Day 5: Dec 27 – Fès to Merzouga (via Ifrane & Erfoud)
The journey continues toward the Sahara Desert. Along the way, you’ll pass through Ifrane, known as “Morocco’s Switzerland,” and the scenic town of Erfoud, famous for its fossils. In Merzouga, you’ll experience a night in the desert with dinner, Berber music, and stargazing as part of your Moroccan travels.

Day 6: Dec 28 – Merzouga to Dades (via Tinghir & Todra Gorges)
We’ll head from the desert to the stunning Todra Gorges, with its towering cliffs, before continuing to the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes. Overnight in the valley as you continue your Moroccan travels.

Day 7: Dec 29 – Dades to Marrakech (via Skoura & Ouarzazate)
On the way to Marrakech, you’ll visit Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, one of the most iconic kasbahs in Morocco. You’ll also stop in Ouarzazate, famous for its film studios and kasbahs, before arriving in Marrakech in the afternoon, where your Moroccan travels continue.

Day 8: Dec 30 – Marrakech City Tour
Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech with a guided tour of its palaces, gardens, and famous souks. From the Koutoubia Mosque to the Bahia Palace, every corner of this city offers a unique experience as you enjoy your Moroccan travels. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 9: Dec 31 – Free Day in Marrakech
Enjoy a free day to relax or continue exploring the city at your leisure. As the year comes to a close, we’ll help you celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with a special evening event as part of your Moroccan travels. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 10: Jan 1 – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Casablanca airport for your return flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Moroccan travels.

Book Now – Limited Spots Available!

Spots are filling up quickly, so be sure to secure your space today for this one-of-a-kind journey through Morocco. For additional information, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or schedule a consultation here. Let’s make this holiday season an adventure you’ll never forget in your Moroccan travels!

Astonishing Marrakech to Zagora (2024)

sahara desert

Traveling with Our Real Morocco from Marrakech to Zagora offers an exhilarating experience for those looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Morocco and step into the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert. This journey takes you from the bustling city life of Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains and into the arid pre-Saharan region, where Zagora serves as a gateway to the desert.

Marrakech to Zagora

Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect on this adventure, including key stops and experiences. The journey from Marrakech to Zagora typically covers about 350 kilometers and can take roughly 7 to 8 hours by road. Most travelers opt to turn this route into a 2-day adventure to fully appreciate the scenery and explore the various sites along the way.

Begin your journey early in the morning from Marrakech. The road takes you through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, which at 2,260 meters is the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. The drive offers stunning views and numerous opportunities for photos.

Midway through your journey from Marrakech to Zagora, visit Ait Benhaddou, a historic fortified village that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This location is famous for its traditional pre-Saharan habitat made from mud bricks and has been the backdrop for many films, including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator.

Known as the gateway to the desert, Ouarzazate is famous for its film studios, where some of Hollywood’s biggest movies and series were filmed. Tour one of the studios to learn about the region’s film history. Have lunch in Ouarzazate and explore the town’s kasbahs, including the well-preserved Taourirt Kasbah.

On your second day from Marrakech to Zagora, continue your journey through the Draa Valley, renowned for its lush oases and palm groves. This part of the drive offers a picturesque contrast to the rugged mountains you’ve left behind. Arrive in Zagora, a town famous for its sign that reads Timbuktu 52 days, referencing the time it took for camel caravans to reach Timbuktu in Mali.

Zagora still serves as an excellent base for camel treks and overnight desert camps. In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the desert. Experience the sunset over the sand dunes, which is a truly magical sight. Spend the night in a traditional Berber tent in the desert, enjoying a starlit sky and traditional Moroccan dishes prepared over an open fire.

The best time to travel from Marrakech to Zagora is during the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is more moderate. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations. The desert can be very hot during the day and quite cold at night. When visiting rural and conservative areas, dress conservatively and respect local customs and traditions.

This journey is an exceptional adventure that encapsulates the stunning diversity and rich cultural heritage of Morocco. As you traverse from the vibrant, bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene and sweeping landscapes of the Sahara, each stop and sight along the way enriches your understanding and appreciation of this unique country.

The journey from Marrakech to Zagora is more than just a road trip, but a passage through the heart of Morocco’s varied landscapes and a glimpse into the life along the edges of the Sahara. It offers travelers an authentic experience of Morocco’s natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-do for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Whether it’s marveling at the architectural wonder of Ait Benhaddou, exploring the cinematic history of Ouarzazate, or experiencing the tranquility of the Draa Valley, this trip offers an array of unforgettable experiences. Ending your journey with a camel trek into the vast dunes and an overnight stay in a Berber tent under the starry desert sky is the perfect culmination of this epic travel experience.

This experience not only connects you with the timeless traditions of the local nomadic tribes but also allows you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reflect on the profound beauty and calm of the desert. This route from Marrakech to Zagora is a vivid reminder of Morocco’s ability to enchant and inspire with its landscapes, its people, and their stories.

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Awesome Marrakech Tour (2024)

marrakech tour

A Marrakech city tour with Our Real Morocco offers an enthralling blend of history, culture, and vibrancy, providing visitors with a mesmerizing experience unique to this iconic Moroccan city. Known as the Red City for its famous red sandstone walls, Marrakech is a destination where traditional Moroccan culture intertwines with the contemporary, creating an atmosphere that captivates all who explore its ancient streets. This private tour of Marrakech allows travelers to immerse themselves in the rich history, bustling souks, and architectural wonders, making it an unforgettable journey through one of Morocco’s most fascinating cities.

Marrakech Tour

Here’s an engaging guide for a Marrakech city tour, designed to capture the essence and energy of this iconic Moroccan destination. Begin your tour at Jemaa El Fna, the bustling central square that embodies the heart of the city with its vibrant cultural performances, market stalls, and lively atmosphere. Morning is an ideal time to explore, as the square transitions from a peaceful space into a lively hub of activity.

A short walk from Jemaa El Fna takes you to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. Its towering minaret is an iconic landmark and an excellent example of Islamic architecture. While the mosque is not open to non-Muslims, the surrounding gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for photos and relaxing strolls.

As part of your Morocco private tour, make sure to visit the Saadian Tombs, which date back to the reign of Sultan Ahmad Al-Mansur (1578-1603). These historic tombs, rediscovered in 1917, showcase intricate tilework and stunning Arabic scripts. Nearby, you’ll find El Badi Palace, once a grand palace, now an atmospheric ruin offering a glimpse into Morocco’s regal past with its sunken gardens and reflecting pools.

Continue your Marrakech city tour with a visit to the Bahia Palace, a magnificent example of 19th-century Moroccan architecture. Its exquisite marquetry and stucco work, along with its expansive gardens, offer a glimpse into the opulence of a bygone era.

Take a break and indulge in a traditional Moroccan lunch in one of the Medina’s charming houses. Savor dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla, not only for their delicious flavors but as a deep dive into local culinary traditions.

After lunch, head to the Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. This lush garden, with its vibrant cobalt blue accents and exotic plants, is a perfect spot for relaxation. Nearby, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the designer’s work, deeply connected to Moroccan culture.

Your Marrakech private tour wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through Gueliz, the city’s modern quarter, known for its contemporary cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. This area provides a contrast to the historic Medina and reflects Marrakech’s evolving identity.

End your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city as the sun sets over the skyline. The fusion of Moroccan and international cuisines reflects the cultural blend that defines modern Marrakech.

If you still have energy, head back to Jemaa El Fna to experience its vibrant transformation into a night market, filled with storytelling, music, and dance performances.

Incorporating tours and excursions like these into your Morocco private tours offers a rich sensory journey through Marrakech’s history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Every corner of the city reveals a new story, making it an unforgettable destination that continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

morocco private tours

Amazing City Tour Marrakech (2024)

Embarking on a city tour Marrakech with Our Real Morocco is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and sensory experiences. Known for its vivid colors, intricate architecture, and bustling souks, Marrakech offers an immersive journey into the heart of Moroccan heritage. Here’s a curated itinerary to help you discover the best of Marrakech in one unforgettable day.

City Tour Marrakech

Start your city tour Marrakech early at Jemaa El Fna, the beating heart. This famous square is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can observe a lively blend of musicians, storytellers, snake charmers, and vendors. It’s the perfect introduction to the city’s dynamic atmosphere.

Just a short walk from the square is the Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s most famous mosque, known for its magnificent minaret that dominates the city skyline. The mosque itself is not open to non-Muslim visitors, but you can admire its impressive structure and the beautifully manicured gardens surrounding it.

Next on this city tour Marrakech, visit Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture that showcases the elaborate and ornate style of the late 19th century. The palace features stunning mosaics, carved wooden ceilings, and lush gardens, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Moroccan nobility.

Conclude the morning with a visit to the Saadian Tombs, which date back to the reign of Sultan Ahmad Al Mansur in the late 16th century. The tombs are celebrated for their intricate tilework and the serene atmosphere of their garden setting. Dive into the winding streets of the Medina, the old city of Marrakech.

Here, this city tour Marrakech gives you the chance to find the vibrant traditional markets, bustling with life and offering everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and traditional crafts. It’s a place to practice your bargaining skills and soak up the local culture. For lunch, retreat to one of the tranquil traditional houses in the Medina.

These traditional Moroccan houses often feature a central courtyard and are known for their intimate, relaxing atmospheres. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal, perhaps a tagine or couscous, in this serene setting. After lunch, make your way to the Majorelle Garden, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

This is a highlight of a city tour Marrakech. The garden is famous for its vibrant blue accents and exotic plants, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Adjacent to the Majorelle Garden is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which features a permanent display of the French designer’s work, as well as temporary exhibitions.

The museum provides insight into Saint Laurent’s profound connection to Marrakech. Visit Gueliz, the modern district of Marrakech, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. This area showcases a different side of Marrakech, blending contemporary design with traditional Moroccan influences.

Conclude your city tour Marrakech with dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Medina. This is a chance to savor Moroccan cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the city as it lights up at night. Return to Jemaa El Fna to experience its transformation into a vibrant night market.

The energy here at night is electric, with food stalls offering traditional Moroccan delicacies, and performers enlivening the atmosphere. A city tour of Marrakech is a journey through a rich mosaic of sights, sounds, and flavors, from the historical echoes in its palaces and mosques to the vibrant life of its streets and markets.

This city tour Marrakech offers an authentic slice of Moroccan life that is both enchanting and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring its ancient heritage or experiencing its modern culture, Marrakech is a city that will capture your heart and imagination.

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Inspiring Marrakech City Tour (2024)

wine teasting in morocco

A Marrakech city tour with Our Real Morocco offers an enchanting journey through one of Morocco’s most vibrant and historic cities. Known as the red city due to its distinct red sandstone buildings, Marrakech is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern vitality. Here’s a detailed guide for an immersive city tour.

Marrakech City Tour

Begin your Marrakech city tour at Jemaa El Fna, the bustling heart. Early in the morning, the square is relatively calm, allowing you to appreciate its architecture and layout. As the day progresses, it becomes a lively hub of activity with street performers, snake charmers, and food stalls.

A short walk from Jemaa El Fna, you’ll find the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest one in Marrakech. Its impressive minaret is a symbol of the city. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, the gardens surrounding it are open to all and provide a peaceful retreat.  Then you can dive into the labyrinthine traditional markets of the Medina.

In this Marrakech city tour, each traditional market specializes in different goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and lanterns. Bartering is part of the experience, so take your time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and engage with the local vendors. Head to the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace with stunning architecture, lush gardens, and intricately decorated rooms.

It was built to be the grandest palace of its time, and its beauty remains impressive today. Next, visit the Saadian Tombs, rediscovered in 1917 and dating back to the Saadian dynasty of the 16th century. The tombs are renowned for their exquisite decoration and peaceful gardens.

Take a break from your Marrakech city tour and enjoy lunch at a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden. Many of these have been converted into boutique hotels and restaurants, offering authentic Moroccan cuisine in a serene setting. Spend your afternoon exploring the Majorelle Garden, a beautifully designed botanical garden created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle.

Later restored by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, its vibrant blue buildings and diverse plant species make it a tranquil escape. Adjacent to the Majorelle Garden is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, showcasing the designer’s iconic work and his connection to Marrakech. The museum offers a fascinating look at the fusion of fashion and Moroccan culture.

Conclude the afternoon of your Marrakech city tour at the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic college known for its stunning Moorish architecture and intricate tile work. It’s one of the largest madrasas in the entire North Africa and offers a glimpse into the city’s educational history.

As evening approaches, head to the modern districts of Gueliz and Hivernage. These areas showcase a different side of Marrakech with their trendy cafes, boutiques, and contemporary art galleries. Enjoy dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants offering a fusion of Moroccan and international cuisine.

Popular choices include Al Fassia, known for its authentic Moroccan dishes, and Comptoir Darna, which combines dining with live entertainment. Marrakech city tour is also the opportunity to experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a rooftop. The city offers a variety of options, from chic lounges to places where you can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.

A Marrakech city tour encapsulates the essence of Moroccan culture, blending the old with the new in a seamless harmony. From the historic charm of the Medina and its bustling souks to the serene beauty of its gardens and the modern vibrancy of its nightlife, Marrakech offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Whether you are exploring ancient palaces, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Marrakech is a city that promises to captivate and inspire.

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Essaouira

Essaouira

My True Morocco – Two View Points in my Essaouira Day Trip Experience – First time and the next time My heart was captured by Essaouira at the end of my first two weeks traveling in Morocco.

I am certainly not the first person to have been so taken with the town. Its’ history goes back to the 16th century as do many buildings in the Medina. The medina and ramparts bear a French imprint while the contemporary scene seems pure Moroccan. So, to me as a first-time visitor, it gives the impression of exotic and old, and at the same time familiar.

                                                                                 

ESSAOUIRA DAY TRIP EXPERIENCE

  • On my next trip to Essaouira,ESSAOUIRA EXPERIENCE BY OUR GUEST PEN I intend to enjoy the beach stretching along Mohammed V, which provides a welcome reception. In the early morning, as we walk toward the fishing pier, we see a yoga group, and I briefly consider running down to join them. Essouirians and tourists alike are fishing, running, and playing football while children enjoy the sand and shallow surf.The Medina proves easy to navigate, with the ramparts serving as a constant guide. Hanging out at the fishing pier is endlessly entertaining, with blue fishing boats, hardworking fishermen, fresh seafood displays, and the lively sea birds adding to the atmosphere. An afternoon walk takes us through contemporary art galleries and restaurants, culminating in stunning views from the ramparts. In the late afternoon, a stroll on the beach surprises me—the water is warm enough to swim! I can’t wait for my next Essaouira day trip to fully immerse myself in its charm.

    Take more beach walks

  • Get into one of those beach yoga classes (get web site for Essaouira Yoga)
  • Check out the outstanding wall art (get at least one web site)
  • Ride a camel or horse on the beach
  • Have tea on the beach and watch the sunset over water turn the Medina gold
  • Buy fish at the port and have it grilled there.
  • Try more restaurants both in and out of the Medina

Have you been to Essaouira?  Tell me what you would do next time.

About Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate has stood at the edge of the Sahara tours for centuries, with its palm trees, sandy streets, and fort-like buildings featured in countless films. The name, meaning ‘quiet place’ in Amazigh, reflects its serene atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find new hotels and film studios that showcase the area’s beauty. Most visitors come for the stunning Sahara, embarking on Sahara tours to explore nearby villages, kasbahs, the breathtaking Todra Gorge, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou. This enchanting destination offers a unique blend of rich history and cinematic charm, making it a must-visit on your journey through Morocco.

If you’re looking for one of Ouarzazate’s cultural festivals, May is the time to visit the Door of the Desert. The first festival to look out for is the Rose Festival, just a short drive from Ouarzazate in Kalaat M’Gouna, the rose capital of Morocco. Here, miles of blooming rosebushes create a colorful sight and a fragrant atmosphere. Rosewater, highly prized throughout the kingdom, is celebrated with dancing and singing in the souk, culminating in the election of a Rose Queen amid a shower of petals.

In addition to the Rose Festival, August features the Moussem, celebrating Sidi Daoud with a pilgrimage, a special souk for craftsmen, and lively music and dance. These vibrant cultural events, set against the stunning Atlas Mountains and the nearby Sahara, make Ouarzazate a truly enchanting destination for travelers. For more information on upcoming festivals and Morocco desert tours, be sure to check local listings.

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