Morocco is located in Northern Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Mediterranean Sea. Most of its coastline borders the Atlantic, however, with just 200 kilometers or so—from the tip around the Tangier-Tetouan region to the eastern border of Algeria—bordering the Mediterranean. To get a sense of the topography of Morocco, regions vary from mountainous (in the northern and interior areas) to fertile plains for agriculture (in the coastal areas) to valleys with extreme climates (the farther inland and the closer to the Sahara, the hotter and more extreme it becomes).
Although it isn’t too hard to get from place to place within Morocco’s most popular areas, travel outside of the coastal regions, particularly the desert can take a longer time than you might think as there are no freeways or autoroutes in this region. There are things to see and do in the eastern or southern, but getting to these attractions takes time. We hope you find this map of Morocco helpful!.
Some Highlights on the Morocco Map
Northern Morocco is replete with authenticity, complete with white-washed Moorish buildings, desolate beaches and cannabis fields. While Northern Morocco seems to be a bit ‘behind’ some of the more popular tourist destinations in the south, it is slowly gaining traction while maintaining its traditions, history and culture.
Tangier is the largest city in the northern region of Morocco. It has always been one of the most intriguing and exotic areas of Morocco, but it has changed over the past decade. Although it has a delightful coast, Tangier is a city in transition and is in the process of re-defining itself with many well-to-do expats rediscovering its unique, unparalleled charm.
Chefchaouen is located between Fez and Tangier in the Rif Mountains. You’ll find Chefchaouen (also known as Chaouen) a gorgeous town surrounded by the Rif Mountains. Although the region is a ‘dry’ town, meaning no alcohol is allowed, it’s known for its kif (marijuana), as cannabis fields cover the hills outside of town. Using marijuana is illegal in Morocco, but its exportation continues to rise.
Fez (often Fès) is located in the central, north region of Morocco, though not along the coast, and is the country’s oldest imperial city. For many travelers, Fez ends up being favorite city to explore. When you step into Fez, it’s like walking into a time machine. Immediately you are thrust into something that feels like the Middle Ages. You can read and see our video of Fez on our JBT Insider Guide.
Marrakesh is a considered a must-see for the first-time visitor to Morocco. Situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, it is hopping (and hip) tourist hotspot. There are numerous activities to do here and the entire tourism industry is well-developed. Marrakesh is constantly on the various “top ten” lists of cities to visit around the world, and for good reason! You can read more about Marrakesh in the JBT Insider Guide.
Other Spots on the Morocco Map
Western Morocco is home to other popular destinations, including the country’s capital, Rabat. Some other extremely popular cities along the Atlantic coast include Essaouira, Agadir and Casablanca. The coastal plains are rich in agriculture and have a much milder climate than those areas inland or located toward the south.
Casablanca is the nation’s largest and most populace city. The city of Casablanca has a thriving commercial and economic heart, and the Bouskoura Forest is the only nature-related attraction in the city. Casablanca is the home to Mohammed V International Airport, the country’s busiest airport.
The Western Sahara, the region furthest south in Morocco, basically starting at Laayoune until the Mauritanian border, is critically considered by Morocco, the US, and other international bodies as an integral part of Morocco, though Morocco’s right to the Western Sahara has not yet been universally recognized and is often a political sore spot with neighboring Algeria and Spain.
Getting Around Morocco
Journey Beyond Travel has a variety of unique itineraries that allow you to experience the real Morocco. Our Eclectic Tour gives you an overview of the country’s highlights in both culture and landscape, while our Imperial Cities Tour takes you to the most inspiring locations including museums, UNESCO sights, and more. We also have various trips to the Sahara Desert of Morocco. Enjoy our website, quality articles, and feel free to join us on Facebook and Twitter.