Getting to morocco
From the United States, you will likely be flying into Morocco and most of the flight options are available to Casablanca or Marrakesh. Once there it is easy to navigate with trains or domestic flights to other major cities such as Fes, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir and more. Another option when traveling from Spain is the ferry between Tangier and several cities in Spain. The most common routes are from Tarifa, Algeciras or Gibraltar. The ferry is typically around 1.5 hours.
Getting around morocco
While traveling in Morocco I joined a tour. We utilized bus and train primarily. I also spent a few days on my own and utilized the public transport Casa Tramway in Casablanca with ease. I also used the train between the airport and Casablanca. The train is within the terminal 1 of the airport and you can purchase a ticket at the airport. The ride is about 45 minutes which is about the same for a taxi but at a fraction of the cost. I also took the train from Marrakesh to Casablanca at the end of my tour as I was flying in and out of the Casablanca airport. I booked the ticket at the train station the day before I left and just showed up and jumped on the train. I felt safe in these travels. If you pay for first class you will be in a cabin like seating with ample area to store your baggage.
tour of morocco
I elected to do a tour as I was a solo traveler and really enjoyed my time on this tour. I added a day before the tour in Casablanca and another day in Marrakesh at the end. It was a great way to meet other travelers. Also with organized tour got a lot of history and additional information about each city rather than just exploring on my own. Also we stopped at some places along the way that I might have missed if traveling on my own. One reason for electing to do a tour was being a solo female traveler but I think as long as you are respectful of customs and conservative with dress you should be fine on your own if you prefer that over group travel. I did a Northern Morocco tour that was 9 days starting on evening on day 1 and ending morning of day 9.
morocco Itinerary
Day One
Arrive to Casablanca. As I was joining a tour group elected to spend night at hotel of the tour group the night before. This hotel was convenient to Casa Tramway which I used to get around in Casablanca.
Day Two
Exploring Casablanca on my own. I went to the Hassan II Mosque and did tour, explored the Medina, visited the Cathedral du Sacre, and walked the Corniche. You may also want to check out the Museum of Moroccan Judaism or the Morocco Mall while here. In the evening, the tour began with a meeting about the itinerary and introduction of all the travelers. We went out to eat in Casablanca.
Day Three
We boarded the train to head to Rabat. While there we explored the Old Quarter. After that we took a train to Meknes (3 hours) followed by a 45 minute taxi to village of Moulay Idriss. This traditional village for which some make the sacred pilgrimage to pay homage to Moulay Idriss I. We stayed at traditional homestay and had traditional tagine dinner.
Day Four
We visited World Heritage site of Volubilis of the Roman Empire. After this we returned to Meknes where we got to explore and some of us brave souls tried a camel burger. We then boarded a train for the 1 hour journey to Fes.
Day Five
Fes- you cannot come to Morocco without visiting this iconic city. The medina is simply put a complete maze. It is mesmerizing with the people, animals, shops, markets, mosques and tanneries. Your senses will be overwhelmed.
Day Six
My favorite city was the beautiful blue city of Chefchaouen. To get here we had to take a 4 hour bus ride from Fes. This small town feels very artistic and very safe. With blue buildings everywhere and walls adorned with plants and plenty of cats you’ll fall in love.
Day Seven
Another day to fall in love and explore Chefchaouen. We hiked the Spanish Mosque which is about 2 km from the town and gives fantastic views of the city below. Our group went during the day and were there alone but it is also a very popular sunset spot- just expect others to be there too! Also spent some time grabbing a bite and drink at Casa Aladin for some incredible rooftop views in town.
Day Eight
From Chefchaouen, we boarded a bus to get us to Tangier which was about a 3 hour drive. We checked out the Cape Spartel where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean and went to the Hercules Caves. This unique city is a gateway via ferry to Spain. Later in the evening we boarded an overnight train heading to Marrakesh
Day Nine and ten
Arriving very early in Marrakech the day could be filled with the many sites of this incredible and bustling city. Some of the best things to check out include: Marjorelle Gardens, Palais Bahia, Palais Badi, Saadian Tombs, Museum of Marrakech, Photography Museum, Medersa Ben Youssef, Koutoubia Mosque and of course you must check out the main square Djemaa el Fna. If you want markets and souvenirs this is the city.
Day eleven
Train from Marrakech back to Casablanca and flight home.
must do things while in morocco
Hammam
This experience is one for the books. Your body will be scrubbed and exfoliated like you have never been before. You have to be ok with being naked around other women. Between steaming, soaking and scrubbing your body will get a true Moroccan spa experience.
Moroccan food
Moroccan food is absolutely incredible with its rich spices and flavor. You have to have a traditional tagine while here. Couscous will abound. You should have some Moroccan tea with sugar and mint. You can also try exotic foods like camel.
Getting lost in a Medina (or two)
Exploring these intricate cities with maze like pedestrian streets is an incredible experience. Exploring on your own- you will get lost- and you will love it!
The Markets
Moroccan goods are simply incredible. Going to the markets is a fabulous experience. Do you want leathers, lanterns, argan oils, baskets, berber carpets and more. You can literally shop until you drop.
