5 Reasons to Visit Morocco

Origin Travel Curator Sarah isn’t just a Morocco expert; she was born in Marrakech and raised in Fez and Rabat, ultimately having lived in the country for nearly 20 years. When it comes to planning a trip to the North African kingdom, every itinerary is personalized and no two visits are the same. That could mean being pampered in a traditional hammam, shopping the souks of Marrakech like a local, or backpacking through earthen villages in the Atlas Mountains. With her insider knowledge, Sarah can help to unlock parts of Morocco that few tourists get to see.

As of February 7, 2022, Morocco has re-opened its borders to travelers who are fully vaccinated and have a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of travel. This is welcome news not only for travelers itching to explore somewhere new but also for locals that depend heavily on tourism. Sarah tells us why making a trip to Morocco in 2022 makes perfect sense...

It feels like a world away, but Morocco is actually very well connected to many countries with direct flights. From the U.S., non-stop flights from Miami; Washington, D.C.; and New York City get passengers across the Atlantic to Casablanca in about seven hours. If you’re already planning a Europe trip, it’s even easier to add on an extra leg to Morocco, with direct flights from around the continent or ferry service from Spain.

Once you’re in Morocco, ground transportation is ideal for exploring the countryside, but Sarah recommends flying to see as much of the country as possible when you’re short on time. Low-cost airlines seamlessly connect hotspots like Fez, Marrakech, Casablanca, and Ouarzazate, so you can make the most of your trip without the hassle of driving.

For many travelers, Morocco is a first experience visiting the Arab world, an Islamic country, and the continent of Africa, but the culture shock quickly gives way to a beguiling sense of wonder. “Morocco’s culture is very much organically exposed for all to see and take in,” according to Sarah, “simply by walking through an old medina or taking in the views from the rooftop of a riad.” Even young travelers can appreciate the tantalizing street scenes or the exuberance of a bazaar without the effort of walking through endless museum galleries.

Moroccan food is filled with subtle spices and intriguing flavor combos that don’t necessarily make sense at first. Take, for example, a sizzling hot tagine of green olives paired with preserved lemons, stirred in with tender chicken and served over couscous. Or the famous bastila, a savory meat pie traditionally made with pigeon that’s dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. When you’re near the coast, enjoy locally caught sardines marinated in cilantro, parsley, cumin, and a hint of chili.

Although Moroccan cooking doesn’t have the haughty international recognition as other countries, Sarah calls it the “underdog” of world cuisine. From fine dining establishments to pungent food stalls in the outdoor markets, Morocco’s cuisine is a delicious mix of mouthwatering flavors that will have you asking for more.

When you’re looking for a warm getaway during the gloomiest months of the year, Morocco should be at the top of your list. Winter in the southern part of the country is especially balmy, including destination towns like Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and coastal Agadir, where you can suntan on the beach in January. “Travelers from the northern hemisphere looking for warmth away from the drizzling winter will find their happy place in Morocco,” Sarah explains, where the average temperatures hover around 70°F/21°C.

Morocco is famous for its diverse landscapes in a relatively small geographical area (the whole country is roughly the size of California). And since it’s easy to get around the country, travelers can experience multiple environments throughout the trip or even in a single day. You can be in the snow heli-skiing down the High Atlas Mountains one afternoon and learning to surf on the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira the next. For something more romantic, watch the sun as its rises over the Sahara Desert before flying off to Casablanca and watching it set into the ocean as you dine.

For even more Morocco inspiration, check out:

The art of storytelling in Marrakech

Oriental office life in Marrakech

Sarah will be sure to fill your itinerary with her top recommendations and insider tips. You and all members of your family will have something to look forward to.

Cover Image: Ivan Soto Cobos/Shutterstock. Image of La Mamounia: Todamo/Shutterstock. All other images sourced from Unsplash and Sarah Casewit's personal travels.