Morocco is a visually stunning country that offers a diverse range of nature and adventure opportunities, making it a destination for photographers and adventure enthusiasts.
From exploring the Sahara Desert to hiking the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco is full of paradise spots and activities for adventure that are sure to get your senses relaxed and racing all at the same time.
Here’s a list of Top 10 great nature and adventure experiences in Morocco:
Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains
Embark on a trekking adventure through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, passing picturesque Amazigh villages and enjoying breath-taking views of snow-capped peaks.
Camel Trekking in the Sahara Desert
Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert with a camel trek across its vast dunes, witnessing mesmerising sunrises and sunsets amidst the golden landscape.
Exploring the Dades Gorges
Hike through the impressive Dades Gorges, where towering rock walls surround a winding riverbed, offering a surreal and captivating natural spectacle.
Whale Watching in the Atlantic Ocean
Set sail on a thrilling whale-watching excursion off the Atlantic Coast of Morocco, where you can spot majestic marine creatures such as humpback whales and dolphins.
Hot Air Ballooning in Marrakech
Soar above the colourful city of Marrakech in a hot air balloon, admiring the vibrant landscapes, Atlas Mountains, and hidden oases from above.
Wildlife Safari in Dakhla National Park
Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Dakhla National Park on a wildlife safari, home to rare species like flamingos, Barbary falcons, and desert foxes.
Surfing in Taghazout
Ride the waves in Taghazout, a surfers’ paradise known for its consistent swells and welcoming surf culture, making it a perfect spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Hiking in the Rif Mountains
Trek through the scenic Rif Mountains in Northern Morocco, exploring dense forests, fertile valleys, and traditional mountain villages.
Rock Climbing in the Todra Gorges
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in the Todra Gorges, where vertical limestone walls offer exciting opportunities for climbers of all levels.
Birdwatching in Merzouga
Head to Merzouga to observe a wide variety of bird species, including desert sparrows, Egyptian nightjars, and the rare Pharaoh eagle-owl, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Morocco is the only African country flanked by both the Mediterranean Sea, to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. In fact, its coastline is so vast is spans 3,500km and includes a variety of beaches from natural seaside bathing spots and sleepy fishing ports to modern seaside resorts offering a host of water sports. From crystalline waters and rocky coasts to calm lagoons and windy coves, there is plenty to discover among its hundreds of beaches.
From north to south, 21 beaches are declared ‘Blue Flag’ status for their cleanliness, an initiative introduced by the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Environment. The foundation continues to develop the programme providing environmental education and marine life protection while improving accessibility and safety of beaches. Each local municipality is in charge of all areas of beach management including maintenance, cleanliness, promotion of water quality, recycling and sanitation. However, many local hostels and water sport camps run beach clean-up initiatives too to preserve the natural environment.
Mediterranean Coast
The Mediterranean Coast in Morocco extends for nearly 500km. From Tangier and Tetouan to Al Hoceima, Nador and Saïdia, the coastline offers plenty of fine sand beaches, intimate coves, nature reserves and picturesque villages. While there are resorts, many of the beaches are low-key and charming.
From Tangier, which attracts a trendy crowd, visitors can explore unknown gems like Dalia Beach with its rugged cliffs, lush vegetation and soft golden sands for a relaxing sunbathing session or for water sports enthusiasts, visitors can discover the vibrant marine life with a spot of snorkelling or kayaking into hidden coves. Along the northeast tip of Morocco, Martil Beach in Tetouan offers a paradise for romantic strolls to watch the sunset, and a promenade bustling with cafes, restaurants and shops. Alternatively, visitors can head to Tamouda Bay offering 15km of fine, sand where visitors are spoilt with views of the Rif Mountains and whitewashed buildings. Those who want to explore the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea can attend the Diving Centre in Cabo Negro, offering a range of scuba diving courses for beginners and experienced divers. Sailing enthusiasts can also visit the Tetouan Royal Yacht Club and take up lessons on lasers and other sailboats along the coastline.
Further east lies Nador, and its lagoon of Marchica, and Saïdia, the ‘Blue Pearl of the Mediterranean’ boasting 14km of golden sandy beaches, crystal- clear waters, and plenty of sunshine. Thrill seekers can enjoy windsurfing, sailboating or water skiing while those wanting a more relaxing time at sea can hire a boat for a fishing trip.
Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic Coast of Morocco stretches from the west of tangier, through Assilah, Larache, Moulay Bousselham, Mehdia, Bouznika, Casablanca, El Jadida, Safi, Essaouira and down to Taghazout, Agadir, Mirleft, Tarfaya and Dakhla presenting raw and untamed beauty, captivating with its rugged cliffs, vast dunes, and powerful waves. Starting in Casablanca the beach of Ain Diab offers jet-skiing and windsurfing and is lined with cafes, restaurants, and clubs so visitors can relax beachside by day and revel in the Casablanca nightlife into the evening.
The beaches at Safi are also a big draw to visitors with Lalla Fatna probably the most famous beach of the city. It is said to have the most beautiful waves on the planet, named ‘Garden,’ which is the most powerful roller of Morocco at Ras Lefaa Point, perfect for surfers. Meanwhile, Agadir stands as a prime destination, boasting a long stretch of golden sand and a multitude of beachside resorts.
Adventurers seeking thrills can head to Taghazout, renowned for its world-class surfing conditions and laid-back surf culture. The nearby Paradise Valley offers a contrasting landscape of palm-filled canyons and natural rock pools, providing an oasis of tranquillity. And for a unique coastal experience, the coastal towns of Mirleft and Sidi Ifni enchants with their serene beaches, certified by Pavillon Bleu in recognition of its sustainably managed environments is ideal for unwinding. While further south, Dakhla is the ideal place for kitesurfing, recreation and relaxation.
Whether you want a relaxing or active vacation, both Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts in Morocco give you yet another reason to explore the country’s many facets. For more information on Beaches and Water Sports in Morocco, visit www.visitmorocco. com/nature.
Keeping nature and adventure sustainable in Morocco is of paramount importance to preserve the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for generations to come. Through the promotion of responsible practices and mindful tourism, Morocco aims to protect its diverse ecosystems while offering exhilarating experiences for adventure seekers.
1 Promoting Eco-Friendly Accommodations:
Sustainable tourism in Morocco begins with the choice of accommodations. Many eco-lodges and environmentally conscious hotels have emerged across the country, emphasising practices such as waste reduction, energy conservation, recycling, and the use of renewable resources. By supporting these establishments, travellers contribute to the preservation of Morocco’s natural resources.
2 Engaging Local Communities:
Sustainable adventure tourism in Morocco involves working closely with local communities. Responsible tour operators collaborate with local populations, ensuring that their traditions, customs, and natural heritage are respected. Engaging local guides and promoting community-based tourism initiatives not only benefits the people directly but also fosters a deeper understanding of Morocco’s diverse cultures and ecosystems.
3 Implementing Leave-No-Trace Principles:
Adventurers exploring Morocco’s wilderness are encouraged to adhere to the “Leave No Trace” principles. This includes carrying out all trash, minimising campfire impact, and respecting wildlife and vegetation. By leaving minimal traces of their presence, travellers help protect fragile environments and maintain the pristine allure of Morocco’s natural landscapes.
4 Supporting Conservation Efforts:
Sustainable nature and adventure tourism in Morocco often involves supporting local conservation projects. From national parks to wildlife sanctuaries, travellers can contribute to these initiatives through donations, volunteer work, or even participating in eco-awareness campaigns.
Hiking across Morocco unveils a world of awe- inspiring landscapes and a rich tapestry of fauna and flora with some of the most amazing and protected natural parks in North Africa. From coastal sanctuaries to alpine wilderness, each region promises an unforgettable encounter with the country’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty, which makes it a perfect country for nature enthusiasts and adventurers to explore.
1. Souss-Massa National Park
Halfway between the popular towns of Agadir and Tiznit, the Souss-Massa National Park presents a blend of coastal and inland wonders. Hikers can spot the endangered Northern bald ibis, a distinctive bird species known for its unique appearance and nesting sites along the rocky cliffs. The park is also a sanctuary for other avian species like flamingos, spoonbills, and various birds of prey. As they traverse through this captivating landscape, hikers can also take in its vibrant flora, including argan trees, tamarisks, and junipers, which provide crucial habitats for the park’s diverse wildlife.
2. Toubkal National Park
Located in the High Atlas Mountains, Toubkal National Park boasts breath-taking alpine scenery. While hiking through this rugged terrain, trekkers might spot the elusive Barbary macaque, the only macaque species to inhabit Africa. The park’s higher altitudes host the African crimson- winged finch and the alpine accentor. The flora at Toubkal includes rare endemic species such as the Edelweiss and various medicinal herbs that have been utilised by the Amazighs for generations.
3. Ifrane National Park
Known as the “Little Switzerland” of Morocco, Ifrane National Park’s lush cedar forests offer a habitat for the endangered Barbary macaques. Hikers can witness these playful creatures in their natural surroundings, providing a unique encounter with the rare primates. The park’s diverse vegetation includes Atlas cedars, cork oaks, and a variety of wildflowers, creating a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts.
4. Tree climbing goats
Argan Oil has a long-standing history in Morocco and so do the goats that climb the trees! The tree-climbing goats can be seen in the Argan trees eating the leave and nuts, on the road between Agadir and Essaouira, where most are located.
Morocco’s deserts start at the south and east of the Atlas Mountains, where the climate becomes very hot and dry. Quiet and sheet in size the Sahara Desert has an area of 5,717,000 square feet (9,200,000 square kilometres) and is the largest hot desert in the world. In particular, the Sahara’s terrain is rugged with barren plateaus and little sand, as its relentless winds blow away grains leaving bare rock and boulders.
Exploring Vast Deserts of Morocco
Beautiful Deserts of Morocco
Visitors to Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga will be blown away by the vast, flat areas of the desert containing sand dunes up to 500 ft (150 m) in height created by the wind with little vegetation.
Merzouga Desert
Merzouga Desert is located on the edge of the Sahara Desert and is a rich with an ochre-brown colour. The dusty town itself is said to be the gateway to the vast Erg Chebbi dunes – large seas of dunes formed by wind-blown sand. Merzouga has also been described as a ‘desert theme park’ that was once said to flourish as a tropical jungle until it was turned into a desert by God.
Visitors can stay a night under the stars or in a bivouac, hike the long sand dunes or take a camel ride to admire the wild landscapes.
Agafay Desert
Driving from Marrakech to Agafay, visitors will pass many orange groves and as the land gets more barren, away from the city tourists can aspire to freedom. The Agafay Desert extends over several hundred acres and its rocky terrain and white dunes, called regs, are similar to those in the Sahara.
Many tracks run between canyons and moon-like dunes in Agafay and the area is dotted with Amazigh villages offering the chance for visitors to immerse in culture, speak with the locals while drinking Moroccan tea and soak up the scenery. The latest trendsetting attraction in the desert is glamping, where several luxury glamping and stone camps in the desert have been set up for tourists who want tranquillity and can bed down under a starry night sky and sleep in a Berber tent or bivouac.
In the middle of the desert, you will also find an oasis, home to plants, turtles and frogs. While thrill seekers can venture out over expanses of sand in a 4×4 or quad bike, or a take a camel ride led by a villager. Mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding is also popular at Agafay.
Zagora Desert
The rocky and arid Zagora Desert is set in the Draa River Valley region at the base of the Zagora mountains. This longest river of Morocco starts in Ouarzazate and there are many historical sites in its vicinity including Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, a great example of earthen clay architecture of the region that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and is home to many film sets including Gladiator.
The desert is dotted with fortresses and Kasbahs surrounded by palm groves and overhung by a rocky massif.
For those seeking adventure rent either a 4×4 or a buggy, to drive the terrain. Camel riding is also available and glamping among the stars is popular.
Discovering pre-desert territories of Morocco
In the vast expanse of Morocco lie pre-desert territories that boast unique and captivating nature, from the ancient heritage of Ouarzazate to the desert allure of Errachidia and Figuig’s serene oasis, these destinations are perfect for those looking for adventure while discovering the secrets of Morocco’s breath-taking landscapes.
Ouarzazate, known as the ‘Door of the Desert,’ is a mesmerising blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Its stunning landscapes feature rugged mountains, lush oasis, and ancient Kasbahs that take visitors on a journey back in time. This city offers the chance to explore the mesmerising Ksar Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site fortified village formed of ancient Kasbahs, labyrinthine alleys, and intricate architecture.
Nestled at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains, the region also offers thrilling opportunities for adventurers like trekking or rock climbing its breath-taking cliffs and canyons, as well as quad biking through the desert traversing sand dunes, dry riverbeds, and rocky paths. Furthermore, to take in all the natural landscapes that the region has to offer, visitors can also soar above the desert in a hot air balloon for a unique perspective of the surroundings.
Errachidia presents an unparalleled opportunity for nature and adventure enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the captivating landscapes of the region. As the gateway to the Sahara Desert, Errachidia offers a tapestry of exciting experiences from embarking on camel treks that venture deep into the heart of the dunes, where visitors can
witness breath-taking sunrises and sunsets against the golden sands, to exploring the intricate canyons carved by the Ziz River, which unveil geological wonders, ancient rock formations and Erfoud’s fossil-rich regions through the centuries. For the thrill-seekers, the towering dunes of the Sahara become a playground for sandboarding, amidst the stark beauty of the desert landscape. When night falls, the clear desert skies provide a canvas for stargazing, and travellers can join the multitude of guided tours offered, discovering the many oases hidden amidst the arid terrain, part of a luxuriant palm grove rich of dozens or so varieties of dates.
Figuig, a hidden oasis on the eastern edge of Morocco, is a picturesque town close to the eastern border renowned for its oasis and traditional Amazigh culture, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and authenticity. The town’s most striking feature is its lush palm groves, which stand as a testament to the resilience of its inhabitants against the arid desert environment building iconic intricate underground water channels, known as ‘khettaras,’ which have sustained Figuig’s agriculture for centuries. This remote paradise is perfect for hikers to wander through lush palm groves and discover the transition from the oasis to the desert landscapes, showing the diverse ecosystems of the region.
Hiking the Desert Territories of South Morocco
In the enchanting realm of South Morocco, travellers embark on extraordinary journeys through the desert territories, each offering a unique tapestry of history, nature, and cultural heritage. Among these regions are Guelmim- Oued Noun, Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra, and Dakhla-Oued Eddahab, each defined by rivers and distinguished by their remarkable features and exciting activities of the area.
Nestled in the southwestern corner of Morocco, Guelmim-Oued Noun offers both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers an unparalleled journey. From prehistoric engravings to the region’s fortified Kasbahs and ksour, Guelmim-Oued Noun is a window into ancient civilizations that once thrived in these lands, while also offering a magical
Saharan landscape perfect for adventurers to explore its raw beauty, from trekking through the vast desert expanse to experiencing the oasian tourism and the nomadic way of life through camel treks. Thrill-seekers can engage in off-roading escapades, dune bashing, and sandboarding, adding an adrenaline rush to their desert experience. Along the Atlantic coastline, its virgin beaches invite travellers to experience a new sense of serenity, offering soft sands and soothing waves.
Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra, bounded by the gracious Sakia El Hamra River, lies this Saharan jewel rich in ancient archaeological sites. From camel treks offering a glimpse into the timeless nomadic lifestyle that has thrived here for centuries, to its virgin beaches that stretch along the coastline or its steep cliffs and Akhfenir sinkhole, there are many exciting activities to discover the natural diversity that defines this region. Its untouched Atlantic Ocean coastline is blessed with a very varied natural environment, which is the unspoiled setting of Khenifiss National Park and its Naïla lagoon, known for rich marine life and perfect for birdwatching and fishing.
The region of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab, touched by the Eddahab River, presents a landscape of stunning diversity – from sprawling deserts and vast plains to majestic mountains and hidden oasis. For nature enthusiasts, the Dakhla National Park is home to a wide range of rare and diverse flora and fauna native to the area. Spanning over 50,000 hectares, travellers can find over 360 bird species, including the iconic flamingo, and explore the park’s coastal wetlands, lagoons, and dunes. Furthermore, species like desert foxes, jackals, and the tree-climbing goats, autochthone to Morocco, also inhabit the region and lucky visitors will be able to spot them in the park.
Other exciting activities to enjoy in the area include off-road desert safaris, dune bashing, and sandboarding, or kite surfing, land sailing, surfcasting and snorkelling to enjoy the beautiful coast.
More than two-thirds of Morocco’s northern territory is covered in mountains, including four unique mountain ranges to explore off the beaten track. The mountains offer a marvelous rugged landscape rife for exploring and the perfect playground for thrill seekers.
The Rif
The Rif Mountains sit in the most northerly part of Morocco’s mountain chains, great for hiking and close to the popular tourist towns of Tangier, Chefchaouen, the Andalusian inspired city of Tetouan or the quite pearl city of Al Hoceima and the Marchica Lagoon of Nador. The walking trails here take hikers through picturesque Amazigh villages and cedar forest in the Talassemtane or Al Hoceima National Parks and the Moulouya’s Site of Biological and Ecological Interest, said to be the greenest mountains in Morocco.
Right in the middle of these sites lie stunning hidden gems, popular for visitors who like to trek in valleys and mountains, in around three to four hours. The trails are surrounded by many forests and includes numerous small cascades, and rocks and tree stumps covered in moss that become a thick jungle with the sound of trickling water and birds singing it makes for a serene walk in the vast outdoors. Once at the shores of the Mediterranean visitors can take a dip in its mid-cool waters and marvel at the majestic mountains that go down into the sea.
The Middle Atlas
Between Fez and Beni-Mellal, the Middle Atlas area has gentler slopes with wooded hills offering excellent trekking. It covers 14,292 square feet (23,000 square kilometres) and takes in the provinces of Khenifra, Ifrane, Boulmane, Sefrou, Khemisset and parts of Taza and Beni-Mellal. The mountains are covered with evergreen oak and cedar forests, with fertile lands and lakes scattered around it.
Khenifra, on the Oum Er-Rbia River, is designated ‘the doorway to the Middle Atlas’ and is a region renowned for its lacs, named Aguelmane in Amazigh, bordering on the mountains until Beni-Mellal that is rich in monuments from the Moulay Ismail period and the Almoravids. In Ifrane between Fez and Meknes, the mountains form a dream backdrop for the Ifrane National Park at an altitude of 5,410 ft high (1,650 m). Known as ‘Little Switzerland’, Ifrane is a place for winter sports and is covered in snow from mid-November. Whether visitors are amateur skiers or experts, there are several ski slopes to try as well as horse riding, mountain biking and tree climbing.
Azilal, lies in the foothills of the Middle Atlas and at the junction of the High Atlas, and is the capital of the M’Goun Conservation Area, a perfect base point to explore the region. It is also home to the M’Goun Geopark Museum, a region of fossils of Mesozoic age and stone structures and the well- known Cascades d’Ouzoud waterfall. Tourists also gather around the popular dinosaur statue built here, which is lit up at night time and surrounded by waterfall.
The High Atlas
The High Atlas forms the highest part of the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, it rises in the west at the Atlantic Ocean and stretches east to the Moroccan- Àlgerian border. Jbel Toubkal is the highest peak at 13,671 ft (4,167 m) that lies in Toubkal National Park, acting as a weather system barrier separating the Sahara Desert from the northern fertile areas. The snow-covered mountain tops last into late spring and there are ski stations including at Oukaimeden for winter sports fans (50km south of Marrakech).
Inhabited by Amazighs offering unparalleled hospitality, the valleys of the mountains offer a great spot for tourists to hike. In the northern reaches of the High Atlas Mountain sits Ait Bouguemez, or ‘happy valley’ as it is known, offering high-cultivated plateaus such as Mgoun, Rat or Azourki peak.
Lake Ifni also sits in the middle of the valley of these mountains, at 6,560 ft high (2,000 m), offering a peaceful camping opportunity with apocalyptic sunsets and sunrises. For a more serene water sport, why not try paddle boarding or swim in the cool waters.
For adventure lovers wanting a challenge, Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in northern Africa, is physical challenging achievement that can take two to three days to trek. Those who reach the summit are blown away by the panoramic views and the quiet surroundings.
The Anti-Atlas
Also known as, the Little Atlas, the Anti-Atlas is a smaller mountain covering a distance of 311 miles (500km), with heights up to 10,840 ft (3,304 m), at Jbel Sirwa, and are covered with thyme, rosemary and argan. The Anti-Atlas is sparsely inhabited and sits close, west by east, to Tafraout, the Draa Valley, Ouarzazate and Tinghir. Its main town is Tafraout, which is described as ‘Morocco’s Amazigh heartland’ and visitors will be able to view ancient cave paintings in certain areas of the mountain range close to it.
Stretching from Ouarzazate into the Sahara Desert, the breathtaking Draa Valley is a hotspot for visitors who can explore the Amazigh villages, Kasbahs, streaming sand dunes, endless palm trees and Morocco’s largest river, The Draa, now mostly dried up. It was near the river mouth on the Atlantic where archeologists found the statuette of Venus of Tan-Tan, one of the oldest prehistoric sculptures ever discovered.
The region is distinguished by rare and endemic species including gangas, sirlis, gazelles, hyenas and foxes that can all be found in the mountains. While rock climbing, motor cycling treks and mountain biking are all great sports for thrill seekers.
Beni-Snassen Massif
In the northeast of Morocco, is a smaller mountainous region of low altitude. Beni Snassen Massif is spread across Oujda-Angad, Berkane and Taourirt and its stunning limestone mountains reach a height of 5,036 ft (1,500 m). It is one of five sites in Morocco to be identified as a study site of biological and ecological interest.
For nature lovers, it provides a variety of evergreens and fragrant herbs, watered by numerous springs. Large vineyards adorn the slopes alongside Amazigh tribes that live in the small villages dotted along the foothills of the mountains.
Tourists can visit a number of caves including Grotte des Pigeons, in Berkane, where the earliest stone-age skeletal remains were discovered or Grotte du Chameau an ancient network of limestone and dolomite caves once used by early homo sapiens and set in a mountain that resembles the shape of a camel.
The road through the mountains includes deep gorges and fruit plantations including orange groves, citrus fruit and fig trees.
Mountains, beaches, palm groves, lakes and parks, there is abundance of landscapes and nature to be explored in the Kingdom of Light offering a perfect excuse to get outside. Hike the Ourika Valley, at the foothills of the impressive High Atlas while seeing the impressive waterfalls and taking a dip in the Ourika River. Alternatively, trek the Imlil hinterland and scale Toubkal, the highest peak in Morocco and North Africa, offering stunning views across the country.
Overview to Morocco’s Natural Diversity
As one of the leading countries in sustainable tourism, Morocco’s breadth of nature is diverse and one that is preserved. From biodiversity to desert, there is also many adventures to have for an authentic getaway. From camel rides in Agafay to a night under the stars in the Sahara, nature and adventure combine in Morocco.
From mountains to marine life
Nature lovers will find plenty of natural discoveries in Morocco including vast deserts, high mountains, beautiful natural parks, and Blue Flag status beaches where responsible tourism is key to ensure beaches are cleaned while marine life is protected from pollution.
Between the sea and mountains, desert sands, green plains, and eye-popping panoramas there is an abundance of wildlife and fauna including tree-climbing goats! Tourists will be in awe of the tranquillity of the landscape and its raw, natural beauty.
Adventure seekers will also be able to explore vast terrain and partake in a number of sports from skiing, mountain climbing and biking, tree climbing, quad biking or camel riding in the desert, and hot air ballooning above colourful cities and plenty of water sports.
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important topic in the hospitality industry and Morocco is one of the leading countries in terms of sustainable tourism, with more than 60 cities signing its charter on responsible tourism. Morocco’s coastline is no exception, with Morocco’s Government and several seaside resorts implementing sustainable initiatives to preserve beautiful beaches and protect the environment.
From north to south, 21 beaches are declared ‘Blue Flag’ status for their cleanliness, an initiative introduced by the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Environment. The foundation continues to develop the programme and provides environmental education, marine life protection and improves accessibility and safety of beaches. Each local municipality is in charge of all areas of beach management including maintenance, cleanliness, promotion of water quality, recycling and sanitation.
It is not just the municipality that looks after beaches, there are many beach clean-up projects organised by surf clubs and local organisations throughout the country. Surf clubs in Essaouira and Taghazout, for example, have been organising beach clean-up events for years. These events bring together volunteers from the local community to collect rubbish and plastic waste from the beaches, helping to keep them clean and safe for both visitors and marine life.
Another sustainable initiative is water waste recycling in beach resorts. Several seaside resorts in Morocco, including Agadir, Taghazout, El Jadida and Saidia have implemented water treatment systems that recycle greywater for irrigation and other non-potable uses. This reduces the amount of freshwater needed for resort activities and minimises the impact on local water resources.
Some beachside resorts have also implemented renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines to reduce their carbon footprint. The Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, for example, has installed 6,000 square meters of solar panels to generate electricity for the resort, reducing their dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
In addition to these initiatives, several beach resorts in Morocco have also implemented sustainable practices in their daily operations. For instance, eliminating single-use plastics such as straws and plastic cups, opting for biodegradable alternatives instead. Others have implemented recycling programs and composting initiatives to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Saidia, also known as ‘the blue pearl of the Mediterranean’ is a picturesque seaside beach town located on the northeastern coast of Morocco. It boasts 14km of beautiful golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities from water sports or golfing to relaxing in the marina and tasting some of the delicious fresh fish.
Expansive fine and white sand Holidays by the sea, with friends or family
Saidia, the pearl of the Mediterranean, is a seaside resort, entirely devoted to relaxation and your well-being. For a few days, you can forget your daily routine and relax in state-of-the-art institutes with high concerne for sustainable development.
These paradisiac beaches, seem to extend to infinity. With 14 kilometres of fine sand, you can only relax and indulge in a peaceful moment. On a deckchair, in the shade of a parasol, while being rocked by the rolling waves, let yourself be tempted by a wonderful contemplation moment of picturesque landscapes.
While resting on these beaches, there’s enough eye candy to ensnare your imagination. Modern, these beaches were designed to meet tourists expectations with a plethora of fun activities. In quiet and warm waters, perfectly secured, you will have fun with your family or friends. Take your pick from windsurfing, kite surfing, diving or water skiing.
Saidia’s marina is a hub of activity, offering visitors a chance to indulge in various water sports and leisure activities. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore the beautiful coastline or try their hand at fishing. The marina is also a popular spot for jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing, and the rental facilities are available on-site for both beginners and experts.
The beaches of Saidia are undoubtedly the main attraction for visitors. One of the longest beaches in the country, it counts 14km of golden sand, some of them semi-deserted, perfect for long walks with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, that end at the borders. The surrounding area of Saidia is also worth exploring, offering beautiful hiking routes and nature walks, like the Zegzel Valley or the Beni Snassen Natural Park, home to an array of flora and fauna, including rare bird species.
Saidia is also renowned for its beach bars and restaurants, which serve a wide range of local and international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea or sample the delicious seafood, which is freshly caught each day.
For those looking to explore the local culture, Saidia offers plenty of opportunities. The town’s medina is a fascinating place to visit with its narrow streets, bustling souks, and traditional architecture. Discover Moroccan culture by exploring the famous markets, perfect for buying souvenirs and traditional products from the country like hand- made leather, exotic spices or colourful handcrafts.
Plunge into cold and fresh water, and fuel up with thrill and excitement in the pearl of the Mediterranean.
Dakhla is a medium-sized city of just over 100,000 people located 400 kilometres north of the Mauritanian border. The city is built on a peninsula that runs down from the mainland creating a lagoon area with warm turquoise waters that is popular for kite surfing and wildlife.
Like Essaouira, Dakhla also has a temperate climate and is also very well known for having great windy conditions for surfers, due to Sirocco and Trade winds. It is one of the unknown pearls of Morocco that is fast becoming popular because of its beaches, sport, and nature. In fact, the number one activity in Dakhla is kite surfing and there are many hotels in the area that offer kite surf camps.
Beach life in Dakhla
Located on an almost island, at the entry of the Rio de Oro, the bay of Dakhla and its splendid lagoon with warm turquoise waters is home to migratory birds, pink flamingos, turtles, monk seals, rays and humpback dolphins.
In addition to lazing around, swimming and surf-casting fishing, you’ll have the opportunity to practice the most fashionable nautical activities. The city tops the list of worldwide water sports since 2014. Surfers, kite-surfers or windsurfers, who also consider this spot as one of the most beautiful on earth, meet on the beach of Foum El Bouir to experience challenges. Going down further south, you’ll arrive to the superb white sand beach of Puertito, as well as the beach of Puerto Rico, where you’ll have the opportunity to sleep in tents beneath the stars.
The shores of Dakhla are said to some of the most beautiful in Morocco, offering peace and the chance to bask in 25-degree sunshine, all year round. For a quiet swim in crystallised waters of the lagoon try PK25 beach or for a livelier vibe the Foum El Bouir beach that is popular among water sport enthusiasts. Surfers, kite surfers and wind surfers can experience thrilling waves and winds, and many famous surfers are attracted to Dragon Point a renowned spot for incredible swells to ide for metres.
From a day out surfing the waves, a good stretch is what is needed, and in Dakhla there are many yoga retreats and wellness holidays. In fact, some facilities combine yoga with surfing and windsurfing activities offering a variety of courses for all abilities.
In recent years Dakhla has also become famous for oyster farming; the oysters develop at a rapid rate in the waters of Dakhla thanks to the prevalence of phytoplankton, which the oysters feed on. Fast growth is also attributed to the temperature in the waters of Dakhla, which is consistent and doesn’t change much. Shoreside you can also practice surfcasting or fish using a stand-up paddle board as the waters are rich with marine life. It is therefore no surprise that Dakhla is well known for its range of fish restaurants and is a paradise for seafood lovers.
