24 Hours in Marrakesh

marrakesh marketMarrakesh is home to enough attractions and curiosities to keep people occupied for several days, but if you only have 24 hours, here is one way to fill your day:

9:00 a.m.

Start your day with a freshly squeezed glass of orange juice while you watch the city begin its day. You can purchase a large glass for around 3 Dh in the Djemaa al-Fna. Next, get your bearings by sauntering over to the Koutoubia Mosque. This building has the tallest minaret in the city and is one of Marrakesh’s most iconic sites. While non-Muslims are not permitted entry to the mosque, everyone is welcome to roam around the gardens.

10:00 a.m.

Take a spin through the souks in the heart of the medina and start shopping for souvenirs. Shopkeepers traditionally gave a discount to the first customer of the day, although usually it’s worth checking out a few stalls before you buy anything. (more…)

Day Trips from Ouarzazate, Morocco

camel tour sahara desertOuarzazate often considered the last big outpost before the Sahara Desert. Filmmakers and crews alike have flocked here in recent years to film blockbusters such as Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, Body of Lies, The Mummy, Babel, Spy Game and many other movies in and around this desert city. If visiting this locale is on your to-do list during any Morocco holidays you might plan, don’t confine yourself to the city alone. There are many day trips from Ouarzazate that are worth the time.

Merzouga

This city is located 50 kilometers from the Algerian border and about 300 kilometers from Ouarzazate. While this is a bit of a drive, this small city is located near the famous sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga. Erg Chebbi reaches 150 meters tall and spans 22 kilometers from north to south and 5-10 kilometers east to west. Many camel treks ranging from a few hours to several days depart from this city. If you’re interested in “seeing” the Sahara, but perhaps not for more than a few hours, visiting Merzouga is a great way to do so. (more…)

Day Trips from Agadir

Man on motorcycle moroccoThe harsh truth: Agadir has a reputation of being a tourist trap. If you’re looking for the true Moroccan experience, most say this city will disappoint. But we’ve got good news—the traditional Morocco you may be searching for is just a short day trip away from Agadir.

Marrakech is a must-see destination if you plan on spending time exploring other cities in Morocco. History buffs, you’re in for a treat. This city is packed with culture. Explore the Medina and other souks sprinkled throughout the city. Prep your bartering skills and dive into the adventures of haggling down the typically high tourist prices. Pack a decent pair of walking shoes as well as an attitude ready for the commotion of Marrakech. A circle drive surrounds the souks, with taxis continuously picking up and dropping off customers. When you enter into the souk area you will see dancing Cobra snakes and monkeys on chains. Several wildlife organizations warn tourists to stay away because of the inhumane treatment of these animals.

In case the hubbub of busy city life isn’t what you had in mind for the day, there are plenty of relaxing getaways near Agadir as well. (more…)