If you’re looking for an easy day trip from Agadir during your Morocco holiday, travel a few kilometers south to the Souss-Massa National Park, which attracts bird watchers and offers a serene escape from the country’s bustling cities.

Morocco established the coastal park in 1991 to preserve the endangered northern bald ibis, which breeds on the site’s rocky cliffs. Once widespread in Africa, Asia and Europe, this declining breed now exists in few locations and has a conservation status of critically endangered. Visitors can recognize the migratory bird by its featherless red face, long bill and black-feathered body.

Attentive observers may also catch a glimpse of another threatened bird—the marbled duck. These medium-sized ducks have light brown and off-white splotches and tend to feed in shallow water. If you encounter one, move cautiously—they startle easily.

The park’s diverse mix of dense forests and wetlands, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and enormous sand dunes provides habitats for more than 100 species of birds, making this area Morocco’s premier bird watching site. Gulls and warblers make up a large proportion of the area’s feathered residents, and observers are most likely to spot Audouin’s gulls, Sardinian warblers and Tristram’s warblers. Other commonly sighted birds include spoonbills, thick-billed larks, red-necked nightjars, Barbary partridges and spotless starlings.

Bird watchers flock to the national park October through May, though you’re likely to see the greatest range of species in March and April due to migratory patterns. While you’re there, keep your eyes peeled for the many predators that hover over the habitats, such as Bonelli’s eagles and peregrine and Barbary falcons.

Even visitors without a particular interest in birds enjoy the park for its scenic estuaries, Oued Souss and Oued Massa, which indicate the northern and southern limits of the park, respectively. The nature trail in the northern part of the park offers clear views around Oued Souss and is suitable for hikers as well visitors who prefer a casual stroll. Those who opt to explore the park thoroughly reap the rewards of panoramas of coastal cliffs and towering sand dunes.

Naturally, birds aren’t the only residents here; commonly sighted mammals include hedgehogs, rabbits, squirrels, foxes and weasels. Watch for movement in the flora and fauna and you might stumble upon toads, frogs, geckos, lizards and other reptiles and amphibians. Curious visitors can learn more about the national park and its residents from the visitor center at Oued Massa.

Written by Shelley A. Gable, instructional designer and freelance writer.

Photo by Michael Ransburg.

You’ve wandered the maze-like souks, trekked the sweeping Atlas Mountains, ridden a dusty camel and gorged on savory tajines. Now you’re ready to round out your Moroccan adventure with something completely unexpected: white water rafting. This guide will help you figure out what you need to know while you plan so that you can make white water rafting a safe, fun and unforgettable highlight of your trip to North Africa.

Where to Go

The Ahasanal River in the Atlas Mountains near Tiloguite is the most popular place for white water rafting and is only a few hours’ drive from Marrakech. Rafting trips are usually available in the spring (beginning in March and lasting until June) when the temperatures warm up and water runoff from the Atlas Mountains makes the river fast with class III and IV rapids.

What to Know

Beginner and intermediate rafters will enjoy the Ahasanal River. Most tour companies require at least six passengers to make a trip, so either travel with a large group or make friends at your riad. Depending on water levels and the group’s level of enthusiasm, trips can last from two days to a few weeks. Alongside the obvious thrill of riding down the turquoise river over bumpy water, there are opportunities for kayaking, exploring local village culture and, of course, campfires with lots of good Moroccan food for fueling up.

What to Expect

Whether you’re traveling with your family of beginners or intermediate white water junkies, your rafting guides need to take plenty of time for safety training, drills and a briefing of what to expect on the water. The white water on the Ahansal River is known for flowing continuously and varying from steep rapids to big waves. Hundreds of different rapids will challenge and delight you in a remote location with some of the best views in Morocco.

The water itself is crystal blue snow melt, so clear you might think you’re experiencing a Sahara Desert-induced mirage. If you can take your eyes off the river or the rapids in front of you, expect to see olive groves and sandy beaches on the shoreline. Monkeys and other less welcome wildlife (scorpions) aren’t unusual visitors in the Ahansal River canyon.

What to Pack

Check with your rafting outfitter to see what they provide for helmets, wetsuits, tents and sleeping arraignments but as a general guide don’t forget:

• Bathing suit
• Long sleeve T-shirts for warmth and sun protection
• SPF lip balm
• Waterproof sun screen
• Dry bags or Ziploc bags
• Sunglasses with a strap
• River shoes, old sneakers or booties
• Waterproof camera
• Change of clothes
• Quick dry towel

Written by Megan Wood.

Photo by Yohei Yamashita.

Considered one of the toughest ultra marathons on the planet, runners of the Marathon des Sables travel approximately 150 miles through the rugged and arid Sahara Desert. Participants run the equivalent of six regular marathons over the course of six days with each stage ranging anywhere from 21 to 91 kilometers in length.

Runners battle sand storms and incapacitating heat. They endure torturous chafing and blisters down to the bone. Not only does this race seriously challenge the body’s physical abilities and will, but the $4,000 entry fee challenges most people’s financial will as well. Surprisingly the race has a 2-year registration waitlist and once registration opens, all available spots are often filled within an hour.

Sunny Blende once said that “Ultras are just eating and drinking contests, with a little exercise and scenery thrown in,” and this is especially true of the Marathon of the Sands. Participants battle temperatures of up to 120°F so maintaining adequate hydration and electrolyte balance is not only crucial to finishing the race but to surviving it. Water is rationed out at each aid station and runners are responsible for carrying all their own food typically around 14,000 calories a person.

In addition to carrying their own food, each competitor must also carry their extra clothing, shoes, medical supplies and a sleeping bag on their backs. All racers are required to pack safety items like an anti-venom pump, distress flair and aluminum survival blanket. The Sahara is home to more than 20 types of venomous snakes and scorpions, but luckily most of them are nocturnal. Each racer typically carries a backpack that weighs between 15 and 30 pounds.

Checkpoints are found every five to ten miles where racers pick up their water rations and are heavily scrutinized by the medical staff. The race staff has no problem pulling people from the race if they look unfit to continue. In 2007 an Italian racer got disoriented during a sandstorm and was lost for nine days before rescuers found him alive yet 30 pounds lighter than his former self.

Racers sleep in communal Berber tents at night. The tents are open-sided and can be harsh unlike the plush bivouacs where the race directors and members of the press call it a night. A medical tent is available for urgent care and is utilized by most racers needing serious blister attention. Most people think you need to be a super athlete in order to compete the event, but each year every day athletes cross over the finish line. In 2010, the winner averaged a 7:38 pace with the slowest racer coming in at a 30:36 pace.

Written by Amiee Maxwell.

Photo by timothy.barker.

Chefchaouen, the largest town in Morocco’s Rif region, is an excellent place to get away from the hubbub of Morocco’s imperial cities and enjoy an unhurried day or two. Located in northern Morocco, the town is referred to simply as “Chaouen” by the locals and is known for its picturesque medina, access to the mountains and an abundance of kif. These factors have made Chefchaouen a popular stop on the backpacker itinerary, but all types of tourists come to the town to explore its architecture, learn about Berber culture and take pleasure in its natural setting.

Start the day with an early morning stroll around the old medina. You’ll find it’s not a complicated labyrinth like Fez or Meknes, and you can stop and look at a tourist map without being accosted by faux guides and souvenir peddlers. Be sure to check out the local handicrafts at the Ensemble Artisanal and get some photos of Chefchaouen’s typical blue-wash architecture. Stop by Plaza Hata to purchase goat butter or local mountain honey, or head to Plaza el-Majzen for more typical souvenirs and regional handicrafts.

Order breakfast at a cafe near Plaza Uta el Hammam, the town’s main square. From here you can get a view of the Great Mosque and its 15th-century octagonal tower. Muslim visitors can go inside the mosque, but non-Muslims are not permitted. Spend the rest of the morning checking out the kasbah, the town’s fortress which was restored in the 17th century. Inside you’ll find a garden, a museum and the prison cells used during Spanish rule. From the kasbah’s rooftop, you can get a nice view of the town.

For the afternoon, take a short stroll to the abandoned mosque outside town (15 minutes on foot) and be back in time to have a relaxed lunch at one Chefchaouen’s outdoor cafes. A more ambitious travel itinerary could include packing a picnic and hiring a grand taxi to take you to Au Pont de Dieu (the Bridge of God), an impressive natural rock arc about 30 minutes’ drive from Chaouen. Another way to pass the time is to learn about aromatic and medicinal plants of the region. Contact Chaouen Rural to arrange a half-day trip to La Maison Rurale d’Aghram. You can also see olive groves and learn how regional olive products are made.

You won’t find any real nightlife in Morocco in this region. Instead, have a candlelight dinner at one of the nicer restaurants, such as La Lampe Magique. Play cards, listen to a fellow traveler strum the guitar or read a book atop your hotel’s rooftop terrace. Above all, relax before heading to the next frenetic bus station or embarking on a multi-day trek in the Rif, which is best arranged before your visit with Gite Talassemtane. This gem of a hotel runs Ecotourisme et Randonnées Chefchaouen, a company operating hikes, walks, and treks with a focus on the local culture and environment.

Written by Heather Carreiro.

Photo by blueSkySunHigh.

The Rif Mountains and the Mediterranean beaches are what make of Al Hoceima one of the most attractive and enticing cities in Morocco. Entering the city, you may think you are arriving in a very common Moroccan town with cube-like buildings, cafes and a few hotels. Despite this, the natural setting around Al Hoceima is makes it seem much more remote than most people probably imagine.

Al Hoceima, also known among the locals as Biya, is located on the Mediterranean coast of Morocco. It was colonized by the Spanish for more than three decades during which it was called Villa Sanjuro. You can still see the Spanish architectural influence throughout the city in spite of the growing number of new buildings. Many residents of Al Hoceima still speak fluent Spanish as their second or third language. Most of the population are Berbers from the Bucoya tribe who speak Tamazight, a Berber dialect.

Al Hoceima offers numerous hiking trails due to the fact that it is surrounded by the verdant slopes of the Rif Mountains. Of all other mountain ranges in Morocco, the Rif has the most dense and colorful flora, offering spectacular views. You can ask your hotel to arrange a guided hiking tour or recommend somebody who can facilitate your trip.

Many count Al Hoceima’s beaches among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. You can drive about ten minutes outside the city to find almost private white sand beaches that seem untouched. In the heart of the city lays the Quemado beach, which is far less unspoiled than the other beaches, though it can be very crowded in the summer.

The best time to visit Al Hoceima is outside high season from October to the end of April when the beaches and streets are not so busy. Depending on your budget, you can either stay at one of the hotels on Mohammed V Avenue or pitch your tent at one of the city’s camping sites equipped with showers.

Written by Ghizlane Gray.

Photo by pretphoto.

The Sahara Desert is among Morocco’s iconic destinations. Most travelers who visit the Sahara opt for an experience among the Erg Chebbi dunes in eastern Morocco. Near Erfoud and Merzouga, travelers tend to start this excursion from Marrakech or Fes.

If you’re an adventurous traveler who wishes to see less traveled parts of the Sahara, consider wandering further south to the Erg Chigaga dunes, south of Zagora and Tagounite. In both areas, you can create a classic desert experience by hiking the dunes, riding a camel, eating local food, sand boarding, camping and star gazing.

If you continue to wander southward through the desert, you’ll cross over the dotted line placed on most maps of Morocco and enter the disputed territory of Western Sahara. This vast and flat area of the desert is claimed by both Morocco and the Algerian-backed Polisario front, though it’s Morocco that governs most of the territory.

Just below the dotted line is the coastal city of Laayoune. Though relatively small compared to metropolises like Marrakech and Fes, Laayoune is the economic hub of the Western Sahara and offers plenty of shopping, restaurants and cafes, especially in Suuq Djemal. Those interested in visiting the beach can venture a few miles south of town by bus or taxi to Foum el Oued, popular for surfing and oceanside relaxation.

Following the coast south brings you to Dakhla, a fishing town and surfing site on a small peninsula. Founded by Spanish settlers in 1502, some of the town’s most fascinating attractions are relics of its Spanish influence. The Spanish lighthouse just outside of town is among these. Visitors can admire its historic architecture from the ground, and those with stamina can opt to climb its 240 stairs to reap the rewards of panoramic views over desert coast. Other Spanish attractions include a military fortress and a Catholic cathedral.

Speaking of lighthouses, travelers can admire a Portuguese lighthouse in Boujdour, another coastal town. Instead of beaches, the oceanside scenery here consists of picturesque cliffs. And for those more fluent in Spanish than Arabic, most of the locals here also speak Spanish!

Travelers who journey via one of the few inland roads may encounter Smara, the only major city in Western Sahara not founded by Spanish settlers. Historically, the town became significant because of its role as a nomadic trade hub and its vast Islamic library. Today, its main attraction is an ancient fortress in the city center that surrounded a mosque. Inland travelers might also pass through Bou Craa, which is a mining town that doesn’t typically attract tourists.

Continue traveling south and you eventually cross over into Mauritania. Be aware that you must make arrangements to cross the border in a vehicle—no foot traffic allowed.

Written by Shelley A. Gable, instructional designer and freelance writer.

Photo by X Ceccaldi.

Although Morocco will never be a winter sports destination, there is still some winter fun to be had if you travel to Morocco. There are a few snow skiing resorts in Morocco, but don’t expect the latest in high-speed lifts or quality rental skis. Instead think 1980s straight skis and donkey trips to the lifts. Skiing in Morocco is about experience rather than skiing killer lines although the skiing industry in Morocco is growing. It isn’t every day that you can find some snow to ski on this close to the equator.

Just south of Marrakech in the Atlas Mountains near Jebel Toubkal is Oukaimeden, Morocco’s most established ski resort. The resort village sits at 2,600 meters and the chairlift rises to 3,258 meters to the peak of Jebel Attar, making Oukaimeden Africa’s highest ski resort. The resort is typically open in January and February and has all the basic amenities like ski rentals, lessons, some hotels and a few places to eat. The runs are neither groomed nor powdery bliss. Expect bumpy, hard-packed conditions, but it all depends on the amount of snow or lack thereof. Big changes are coming for Oukaimeden though; a Dubai-based company Emaar is investing more than a billion dollars to upgrade the resort. It also has plans for building the world’s highest 18-hole golf course.

Jebel Mischliffen is a small ski area in the Middle Atlas Mountains closer to the cities of Fez and Meknes. Founded by the French in the 1950s, Mischliffen has remained nearly unchanged since its inception. The resort offers ski rentals and one hotel although many guests stay in nearby Ifrane or take day trips from Fez or Meknes. The runs are short and the lifts are unreliable. That said, it is still worth the short trip from Fez to say you have skied in Morocco. Many Moroccans themselves make the trip up to Mischliffen just to see the snow.

Experienced mountain skiers often head to the Bou Guemez Valley where they can find plenty of off-piste skiing and ski trekking adventures. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also possible in the High Atlas Mountains. You will need your own equipment and a map since tour services are limited.

Written by Amiee Maxwell.

Photo by simon_music.

The short ferry ride from Europe to Tangier has made this port city a popular entry point to the country and a convenient base for exploring northern Morocco. During a day trip from Tangier you can drive along the Mediterranean coast or the Atlantic coast.

Tétouan

Located about an hour’s drive from Tangier via CTM bus or grand taxi, Tétouan is an excellent place to learn more about Morocco’s colonial history. Having served as capital of the Spanish Protectorate from 1912 to 1956, the city’s architecture features a blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences. Its medina has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique display of craftsmanship, and it is regarded as one of the best-maintained historical sites in Morocco. After strolling around the three-mile long walls of the old city, you can head to the National Institute of Fine Arts or dine in a Spanish-era cafe.

Cabo Negro

Just north of Tétouan is Cabo Negro, a picturesque beach area on the Mediterranean coast. During the summer, it can get crowded with tourists staying at area resorts, but in the off-season it is tranquil and quiet. A good place to enjoy the view is Marina Smir, a full-service marina with room for 450 vessels. The small fishing village of M’Diq is also a short drive from Cabo Negro.

You can combine a trip to Cabo Negro with a visit to Tétouan, or you can hire a grand taxi directly from Tangier. If you hire a taxi, be sure to arrange a pick-up time and take the driver’s mobile number, as you may not be able to find return transport in the off season.

Cap Spartel and Grottes d’Hercule

Cap Spartel is a lookout point west of Tangier on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. From central Tangier, it only takes about 20 minutes by taxi, so a visit here is a suitable for a half-day outing. A 19th-century lighthouse and a cafe restaurant are located at the promontory, and there are some decent beaches to the south and great bird watching opportunities.

A three-mile walk or drive along Plage Robinson will bring you to Grottes d’Hercule, famous rock caves that have been carved out by the surf. A minimal entry fee is required, and once inside the caves you may be surprised by the presence of souvenir stalls, but the view is worth the kitsch. If you’ve ever wanted to collect photos of Morocco’s king doing various activities (waving, riding in car, driving a jet-ski, etc.), this is one place you can stock up.

Written by Heather Carreiro.

Photo by ayyur.

If you are planning a trip to the Middle Atlas in Morocco, make sure you don’t miss the Berber village of Zaouia d’Ifrane. The area, located in the province of Ifrane, is known for its cedar and oak forest, waterfalls and beautiful plateaus and cliffs. The town was named after its famous shrine, or zaouia, built around the tomb of the marabout Sidi Boubker Mohammed. For many, it is enough to know that the Zaouia d’Ifrane is part of the town of Ifrane, which will guarantee all visitors an exceptional experience.

The village is visited by tourists throughout the year, due to the numerous activities it offers. Famous for its mountainous environment, many visit to hike and bike in the region. For others, watching the waterfalls while picnicking and resting is what makes a visit to the Zaouia d’Ifrane so special. Walking throughout its dense and rich forest offers a great range of views, from the stunning mountainside to the picturesque waterfalls. Its lush fields offer the perfect camping sites on which to pitch your tent and explore the area.

Starting from Zaouia d’Ifrane, you can see a number of Moroccan cities on a day trip. It is less than half an hour from Ifrane, only 25 km south of Azrou and only about 100 km from Fez. If you are planning on staying in a comfortable hotel while visiting the village, you may want to consider staying in Ifrane or Fez. Zaouia d’Ifrane has only a few backpack lodges.

Written by Ghizlane Gray.

Photo by Amina Lahbabi.

From luxury resorts and beachfront spas, to mountain lodges and sand dune hikes, if you can dream it, to shine up an old cliché, chances are good that if you travel to Morocco, you can do it. For many, that dream includes adventure. No matter your definition, whether getting lost in a winding medina, trekking the high peaks, camping amid sand dunes or just getting through your first taxi ride, Morocco provides ample opportunity for thrill seekers.

If the idea of hiking into the wilderness strikes your fancy, Morocco’s famous mountain ranges are the perfect place to test your skills. Novice hikers can take part in any number of day hikes from the innumerable mountain villages that dot the High and Middle Atlas. Imlil, just an hour from Marrakesh, acts as trailhead for those looking to ascend Jbel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Setting out for just a few hours along the trail will lead you to remote villages, religious shrines and some of the most spectacular alpine views in the country. Azilal, in the north, lies in the foothills of the Middle Atlas and is a beautiful place to use as a base from which to explore the region.

Opportunities also exist for multi-day hikes, weeks-long excursions and even a full traversal of the country. There are plenty of local guides and mountain hotels to aid you in your quest for adventure, or if you feel comfortable in the wilderness you can go it alone (making sure to take appropriate safety measures, of course!).

If your thought of adventure veers more toward the enigmatic Sahara, a day (or two or three) in the desert may be in order. M’hamid, near Zagora, is an ideal starting point. You can set off via camel or all-terrain vehicle and head toward a Berber encampment for the night. A few days will take you to Erg Chegaga, the largest sand dune in the country and, at over 300 meters tall, an amazing sight to behold.

Unlike mountain hikes, an excursion in the Sahara is not to be undertaken single-handedly. No matter how prepared you may feel, you will be humbled. The desert is hot, dry and unforgiving, and an experienced guide is essential.

What if, though, you picture not the great outdoors, but experiencing a new and wholly different culture? In Morocco, you can try two! While Moroccans are, first and foremost, Moroccan, they also hold some small allegiance to their ancestry, be it Arab or Berber. While the two cultures have, in many ways, blended over the past few centuries, there are many aspects of each that remain distinct, and even native Moroccans can be flummoxed by the traditions or sayings of the other half.

Urban centers in the north, particularly old imperial cities like Fes and Marrakesh, are bastions of Arab culture. Here you will hear Moroccan Arabic (with, yes, a smattering of French). A stroll through the central medina in Marrakesh will lead you past merchants and fortune tellers, habadashers and butchers. Palaces are tucked away within the winding alleys, and no one seems in any particular hurry. Likewise, Fes’ medina is akin to a time machine. The ancient tanneries are still in use, and you will get the chance to see tanners practice their trade just as they have for hundreds of years.

Outside the northern cities and into the mountains, you will find a culture no less ancient, but one wholly different. Berbers still speak their own (and highly regional!) dialect, and, in day-to-day life, Arabic is rare. A visit to a Berber village is one that you won’t soon forget, as the agricultural calendar still dictates daily life, and simple things like dress and foods are noticeably different from Arab centers. There’s also a very good chance that you’ll be invited in for tea with the family!

Whether your adventure is one in the mountains, the desert or in the living room of a Berber family as they teach you folk songs and decorate your hands with Henna, it will be one you won’t soon forget. Morocco’s varied landscapes are reflected in the diversity of its people. While it would be impossible to experience everything in a single trip, make sure not to exclude anything, if you can help it. The best adventures, after all, come from an open mind.

Written by Margaret Jackson.

Photo by placid casual.