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.

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.

Stretching from the High Atlas Mountains in the north to the rugged Jbel Sarho in the south, the Dades Valley is scattered with oases, palm groves and elaborate kasbahs. The valley itself is made lush and green by the Dades River, which rises from the High Atlas Mountains before emptying into Morocco’s largest river, the Draa. The waters of the Dades provide life for a variety of almond, fig, walnut and birch trees on the valley floor offering a spectacular contrast to the earthen-colored rocky formations rising from the valley floor.

Often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Kasbahs, the Dades Valley is home to many kasbahs that were built here for the added protection the valley provides. The most impressive kasbahs are found in Skoura, a fertile oasis lined with palm groves with sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains. Stay in a converted kasbah to experience the splendor of the Dades Valley and tour the fully restored Amerhidil Kasbah which is featured on the 50.00 note of Moroccan Dirhams.

Although the kasbahs of the Dades Valley are a definite must-see, the area’s natural beauty is the real highlight. Carved through the walls of the High Atlas Mountains by the Dades River, the Todra Gorge is best seen on foot. Wander the many hiking trails through the gorge while you admire the towering pink cliffs tinted with greens and golds that stretch nearly 1,000 feet above you. Rock climbing is becoming increasingly popular in the area with plenty of long classic routes up the Pillar du Couchant. Todra is best viewed in the morning hours when the light first reaches the bottom of the canyon. The canyon colors continue to change throughout the day based on the sun’s different positions.

The Dades Gorge begins just north of the town of Boumalne du Dades, a peaceful town with all the amenities. A precarious road snakes down into the gorge from Boumalne du Dades and most visitors limit their exploration of the gorge to the road. The best views are not visible from the road so set out on foot to marvel at the red rock formations up close. Take some time to explore the hidden canyons like the Gorge de Miguirne where you can find rock pools and swimming holes. Hire a hiking guide or arrange a 4WD trip to ensure that you will see the best the Dades Valley has to offer.

Written by Amiee Maxwell.

Photo by Walter Rodriguez.

For many travelers, the epitome of a fun vacation is engaging in different forms of entertainment, including cultural explorations, local nightlife and even recreational water sports. Morocco is no exception.

This North African country sports two beautiful coasts—one fronting the Atlantic Ocean, the other framing the Mediterranean Sea. There is something particularly appealing to people who hope to escape the heat of this exceptionally warm country by submerging themselves in the cool waters at the beach. In the summer months, Morocco’s coastal beaches are flooded with tourists and locals alike.

Many local tourism agencies already understand that there is a market for water sports in Morocco. Thankfully, the country has plenty of great opportunities to engage in all manner of water activities, particularly non-team sports.

In Morocco, water sports have long had a place in the country. Windsurfing, surfing, kayaking, canoeing and similar pursuits have been practiced in Morocco for as long as they have elsewhere in the world. Water skiing in particular has maintained its popularity for several years. Scuba diving, too, has been attracting more attention as it provides a perfect way to explore the Moroccan coastal waters and interact with the region’s diverse marine life.

Kite surfing only recently arrived in Morocco, but the sport is quickly taking center stage; a special blend of skill, strength and intelligence has drawn many athletes to the activity. It’s also not uncommon to see the coastal waters of Morocco dotted with sails and other boats. Sailing is a relatively stress-free, low-key sport that appeals to many visitors. Many others are jumping aboard boats to take advantage of Morocco’s deep-sea fishing opportunities; there has been surge of popularity in this challenging sport.

If you visit any of the country’s major beaches, including Oualidia, Taqhazout, Dar Bouazza and Agadir, at the right time of the year, you can observe (or engage) in surfing competitions like Sidi Bouzid.

The quest for new water sporting venues has spread across Morocco into other areas as more people have taken to the rivers and lakes that crisscross the country. Thus, white water rafting, rowing, jet skiing and yachting are other Moroccan water sports that interest many tourists.

Certainly, if you were to visit Morocco today, you would find no shortage of great water sports to enjoy. If you are planning a trip to Morocco and you love the water, don’t forget to pack your bathing suit.

Written by Shaun Kilgore.

Photo by Joao Maximo.

The Strait of Gibralter, the narrow strait that separates Spain from Morocco, holds a high concentration of marine animals including several species of whales and dolphins. The strait separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean and has a unique geography, which enhances phytoplankton growth and offers an overabundance of food that attracts whales to the area.

This body of water produces a very slow exchange of water between the Atlantic and Mediterranean and this results in a rich environment to sustain a diverse variety of marine life. The Strait of Gibralter is home to the pilot whale, sperm whale, orca whale and fin whale as well as the bottlenose dolphin, striped dolphin and common dolphin.

Unfortunately an increasing amount of traffic in the Strait of Gibralter has endangered some whale species, but despite heavy traffic there is still an abundance of whale activity in the area.

Many companies offer whale and dolphin watching tours, most of which originate in the southern tip of Spain. Most of the tours boast whale sightings more than 90 percent of the time.

A Swiss non-profit group called FIRMM (Foundation for Information and Research on Marine Mammals) gives whale watching educational tours from April through October including a week-long whale watching course. FIRMM offers several two-hour excursions daily for as little as 30 Euros per adult. Although FIRMM can’t guarantee whale sightings, they do have around a 99 percent success rate for finding whales.

To increase your chances for spotting whales, take a tour from April to July; this is when sperm whales are plentiful in the deeper waters of the strait. Or hop on a special tour in July or August to view orcas off the coast of Tangier, Morocco.

Another good option for whale watching in the Strait of Gibralter is with Whale Watch Espana. Tours originate from either Tarifa or Algeciras, Spain, depending on conditions. Tours are conducted in Spanish, English, German, French, Dutch and Italian. Whale Watch Espana is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the marine life in the strait.

Choose either a two-hour tour between April and October to view dolphins and whales or a three-hour tour in July or August for your chance to view the orca known as the killer whale. Make sure to dress warmly in water-resistant clothing because the Strait of Gibralter is notoriously windy. Do not forget your camera or video camera.

If you are interested in the conservation of whales and dolphins off the coast of Morocco, check out FIRMM’s volunteer opportunities.

Written by Amiee Maxwell.

Photo by cimere.

In the 1970s, a group of American and Australian surfers arrived in Morocco to explore the country’s coastline for the perfect wave. What they found was an unexpected but pleasant discovery:

Morocco is a fabulous surf destination.

For almost 40 years, Morocco has been a haven for surfers, and the popularity of its surf is gaining momentum. Several organizations have opened (or are on the verge of opening) surf schools and clubs for travelers who would like to learn how to surf when they visit the country.

If you’re a seasoned surfer or new to the sport but hoping to learn how once you arrive in Morocco, here are some of the best spots in the country to ride the waves:

Located in the southwestern part of Morocco, Agadir is one of the larger cities along the Atlantic coast. Twelve miles from Agadir is a small village called Taghazoute. It is a fishing village, but it is also one of the more popular surfing destinations in the country as well. With sandy beaches and waves for beginners to veterans, it is little wonder Taghazoute is starting to become overrun with surfers. Choose this destination for the perfect conditions, not for seclusion.

Also near Taghazoute is Anchor Point, which is not only a good surfing destination but a hot spot for celebrities. Mysteries, Dog Steps, The Source and Killer Point are other surfing spots near Anchors Point. Other hot spots along the Atlantic coast include Oualidia, Dar Bouazza, Sidi Ifni, El Haouzia Beach and Bouznika Beach.

If you head towards Moulay Bousselham, you will reach a fishing town near Kenitra. There are five good places to surf here. The Mouth of the Lagoon is the most sought after surfing spot, though the Oued and the Secret Spot are also quite popular.

Surfing is also available on the north coast in the Mediterranean Sea, however, the waters here are more violent with rip tides. The coast has a rocky shoreline with caves, cliffs and rough waves. Novice surfers and people who are not strong swimmers should stick to the Atlantic coast. The Mediterranean coast can be dangerous even for the most experienced surfers and swimmers.

Those who wish to surf in Morocco are asked to follow proper protocol to ensure the land is protected. Morocco depends on the coastline for fishing and water as well as to help sustain the country’s wildlife. Surfers and visitors to the beach are asked to clean up after themselves, and even others if necessary, so that the coastline and water sources are protected. Nothing should be dumped into the sea or left to harm the wildlife.

Posted by JoAnna Haugen, managing editor at Journey Beyond Travel and author of Kaleidoscopic Wandering.

Photo by thephotostrand.

If you like to pitch a tent and fall asleep beneath the stars in America’s national parks, on the beaches in Asia or in the Australian Outback, there’s no reason you can’t do the same thing in Morocco. The country’s climate makes Morocco an ideal place to camp, whether you’re traveling by car, bike or foot.

Morocco is actually a very camp-friendly country, regardless of where you’d like to wander. Campsites located outside the cities are well-equipped and very popular, but as you move into the mountainous regions, you’ll need to provide all your camping needs because water and toilet facilities are relatively non-existent.

As you prepare for your camping trip, you may find it necessary to rent some equipment once you arrive in Morocco. Tour outfitters in particular are able to advise of where you can obtain the equipment you’ll need. In fact, if you’ve never camped in Morocco before, it’s not a bad idea to go with a tour operator your first time out. Most tour operators supply tents, donkeys, cooking supplies, food, medical equipment and general camping supplies. You’ll need to provide your clothing (including rain gear), any extra foodstuffs you might need, toilet paper and water purification tablets. If you do book a trip, check with your tour operator before you leave home about what you are responsible for packing so there are no surprises.

So … where can you camp in Morocco? Here are a few suggestions:

Atlantic Coast

Though the Atlantic Coast is home to Casablanca and numerous fishing villages, you can camp just beyond the confines of these cities. If you’re like many people, you’re traveling along the Atlantic Coast in search of warm weather or ideal surfing conditions. Along the way, expect to find year-round campsites that offer great vantage points for both. This is one area of Morocco where first-time campers may feel comfortable enough to travel without a tour guide.

Rif Mountains

As trekkers traverse the Rif Mountains, they’ll likely have to set up camp along the trail. If you’d like to camp in the Rif Mountains, make your plans for the spring and summer months as nights can be cold come autumn. The area is thick with caves and wilderness areas, one of which is the popular Al Hoceima National Park, which consists of mesas and dry canyons. Limestone cliffs line the coast, and many endangered species make their home in the park. Many tour companies offer trekking and camping tours in the Rif Mountains.

High Atlas Mountains

Make your way to Morocco’s most famous mountain range and camp below the peaks of Jebel Toubkal and M’Goun, the two highest mountains in the country. The forests in the High Atlas region are full of flowers and trees, and the entire area is lush due to the amount of rain this part of Morocco receives each year. There is a lot of uncharted area and several Berber villages in the High Atlas Mountains, so hire a guide to ensure you remain on the right paths to reach your intended destination.

Southern Morocco

The Anti-Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert make up the southern portion of the country. The mountains are rockier and, due to their proximity to the desert to the south, summers are often characterized by extreme heat. If you are planning on camping in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, you should be aware that facilities in this area are less developed and you’ll need to be able to provide for yourself.

Posted by JoAnna Haugen, managing editor at Journey Beyond Travel and author of Kaleidoscopic Wandering.

Photo by 300td.org.

With extreme elevations ranging from the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts to the High Atlas Mountains, it’s little wonder that Morocco is a hot spot for rock climbers. The Todra Gorge, situated on the remote eastern side of the High Atlas Mountains, is one of the more popular climbing destinations in the country, and many rock climbing tours focus on this region.

If your destination is a rock climbing tour in the Todra Gorge, you will want to arrive in Marrakesh. You’ll depart the city by vehicle, which will wind through the High Atlas Mountains up Tizi-n-Tichka pass and into the Dades Valley. This lush valley—a green oasis in an otherwise red-colored region—is the beginning of the Todra Gorge. Tinerhir is the last village you will encounter.

The gorge is characterized as a massive fault, which splits the High Atlas region from the Sahara Desert. At times, it seems only wide enough for the small rivers to run around the rocks. As you move further into the gorge, there will be a point where you’ve left the Palmeries and Berber villages behind and are left with only massive rock walls that rise 300 meters above the gorge floor.

There are nearly 400 different climbing routes on 40 different sectors in the Todra Gorge. The Trainee Blanche has only recently been developed and offers lots of potential for the curious climber. The Plage Mansour, on the other hand, has several easy climbing routes and is ideal for someone relatively new to rock climbing.

The Pilier de Couchant is perhaps one of the most challenging routes in the Todra Gorge with nine full pitches on a classic left-hand line, none of which are harder than a 6a+. Climbers can expect to encounter slight difficulties toward the top of the route, but when they reach the top at lunchtime, the sun will be blazing in the sky. Relax, enjoy the view and drink plenty of water before descending back to the canyon floor.

Further into Todra Gorge, climbers will come upon the Satanicos Sector, which is frequently overcrowded with tourists, and the technically intriguing Can Güllich. Les Jardins is more challenging while Chaos offers an interesting bouldering problem.

The Petite Gorge is about 20 minutes from local hotels, and it also offers a variety of rock climbing routes. A selection of 5s and 6s are found here, though the Trini Crack is 8a+.

For those who would like to explore the gorge but aren’t interested in rock climbing, trekking along the gorge floor is a an equally rewarding way to discover this area of Morocco. It is best to begin trekking through the Todra Gorge is in the morning when the sun will break through to warm the air. By the afternoon, expect it to become dark and cold. Some people say it almost feels like winter due to the significant drop in temperature.

It is best to visit the Todra Gorge during the summer. May through September are the best months to climb. Depending on the rock climbing tour you choose, you may camp out or stay at one of the local hotels. There is only one village in the Todra Gorge with a hotel though other accommodations are found on either end of the gorge. Campsites, however, run the entire length of the Todra Gorge.

Posted by JoAnna Haugen, managing editor at Journey Beyond Travel and author of Kaleidoscopic Wandering.

Photo by fightgravity4evr.

Spills, chills and thrills … you’ll find it all on a white water rafting trip in Morocco.

When most people picture Morocco, they envision camels wandering through the desert, colorful souks, mountainous trekking and historic medinas. Water sports abound here too, though, and white water rafting is no exception. And while white water rafting is known for the adventurous adrenaline rush that accompanies it, many tour companies offer history lessons, unique views of Morocco’s back country, fabulous food and an opportunity to truly get away from it all as well.

Just as Morocco’s peaks offer High Atlas trekking, the gorges that cut their way between the mountains make ideal white water rafting courses. The Ahansal River, for example, has majestic gorges with crystal clear water. Rocky terrain surrounds the boat with only the occasional bank offering glimpses into the area’s remote forest. The river travels over rock beds and through the gorges of the Middle Atlas Mountains before reaching the desert. Many Berber villages have been built along the river, which also offer a scenic backdrop throughout the duration of the trip. Though rafters do meet the occasional rough sets of rapids, this river is relatively laid back and serene, if not a bit cool (the water comes from the snow run-off of the High Atlas Mountains).

The Ourika River also runs along the gorge carved through the Atlas Mountains, though it is easier for tour companies to put in and take out, making this an ideal location for shorter river rafting trips. In fact, rafting in this river can often seem like a spectator sport, with local children crowding the banks, laughing, clapping and cheering on passengers as they maneuver through the running water.

Safety and Skills

Tour companies specializing in Morocco rafting holidays offer a range of packages for a variety of skill levels. If you’re new to riding the white water, Morocco is a great place to give it a try for the first time, though skilled rafters will also be technically challenged. Different tour companies have specific guidelines for specific trips, so do your research and ask lots of questions before booking a trip. Everyone must float with a trained tour guide who will provide a thorough briefing before you take to the water.

Families may find a half- or one-day floating tour ideal while the more adventurous might enjoy the week-long tours that truly take them into the heart of Morocco’s wilderness.

Regardless of the white water rafting trip that is right for you, chances are you’ll walk away from the water just a touch wet, at least a little bit refreshed and extremely satisfied with the physical skill and stunning scenery you’ve encountered on your way down the river. In fact, many people find that a white water rafting trip changes their outlook on how they will travel all together; they simply cannot wait for the next aqueous adventure!

Posted by JoAnna Haugen, managing editor at Journey Beyond Travel and author of Kaleidoscopic Wandering.

Photo by Stig Nygaard.

While there is a lot of opportunity to get off the beaten path to visit the lesser-explored regions of Morocco, many travelers want to combine fun and adventure along with a dabbling of history into their holiday. For all three, immerse yourself in Morocco’s imperial cities. Be prepared for some stunning photos while meandering through the historical sites, the coast and deep into ancient medinas that have literally stood the test of time.

One of the most popular routes on a Morocco’s imperial cities tour offers a glimpse into the region’s past as you step into the hustle and bustle of daily life. You’ll have the chance to experience Moroccan cuisine each day of your holiday; sometimes you will eat in a family-owned restaurant or hotel and occasionally in a local’s home. A warm Moroccan welcome and a friendly smile are guaranteed.

The typical imperial cities holiday begins in Casablanca. You will have time to visit the Hassan II Mosque, Habbous quarter and a number of buildings designed in an art deco style, which can all be found near the city center.

Then you’ll be off to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city and home to Morocco’s King, Mohammed VI. Located on the coast, spend an afternoon wandering around the Medina or stop by the Hassan Tower. Additionally, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, Chellah Gardens, the Necropolis, and Oudayas Kasbah are also worth perusing. The Oudayas Kasbah in particular, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, offers an opportunity for fabulous photography.

Meknes, Morocco has the potential to fill another full day if you are interested in history and architecture. The impressive gate called the Bab Mansour is not to be missed. The Fit Hedim Square, the tomb of Moulay Ismail, the stables and the granary are all within walking distance. Spend the night in a quaint riad located inside Meknes’ ancient walls.

Fez, Morocco, is such a large city that it is worth two to three days (as is Marrakesh). Be sure to visit Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, which is located only five minutes from Volubilis, a historic, worthwhile and revealing Roman city. Take time to roam throughout the ruins, which are cluttered with excavation sites, tombs and crumbling walls. An essential element to a visit to Fez is a guided tour of the ancient medina. With over 9,000 alleys and roads, a guide will be sure to show you all the important sights, while getting you around without becoming overly lost! On such a visit, you will be able to see the Kairaouine Mosque, spice market, tanneries, leather market, pottery vendors and henna market. You will also be able to watch wood crafters and metal craftsmen at work, and you may even get to watch students attending the Koranic schools in action.

In Marrakesh, you will have the opportunity to visit Jemaa el Fna Square, Ali ben Youssef Madrassa and the Museum of Moroccan Handicrafts. Spend time at the Bahia Palaces, Saadian Tombs and Majorelle or Menara Gardens while you’re in the city. Located in the valley of the High Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is often the starting point for many Morocco trekking excursions. If you have time, you may want to take a few extra days in the High Atlas Mountains visiting Berber villages, enjoying the crisp air of higher altitudes or simply relaxing in a mountain lodge.

Though it would be possible to spend weeks—even months—exploring Morocco’s imperial cities, there will be a time when you will turn back down the road and make the return trip to Casablanca. Only once you return home will the best memories and most interesting, and perhaps exotic, experiences truly sink in.