Agadir is a popular seaside town situated on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. A paradise for beach lovers, its long stretch of sandy beaches and azure waters attract visitors from all over the world, offering the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
One of the city’s hotspots is Agadir Beach, a crescent-shaped long beach with 9km of sand, which makes it the perfect place for soaking up the sun or taking a dip in the sea. The beach is well equipped with sun loungers and parasols for those who want to have a more relaxing holiday and also offer numerous local cafes, restaurants, and bars for a quick bite or refreshing drink.
For adventure lovers, Agadir offers a wide range of water sports activities due to its great weather conditions and warm water temperatures all year round and has become a hot spot for surfing, stand- up paddle boarding, jetskiing, and paragliding. There are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons for beginners and advanced surfers alike. The calmer waters provide an excellent opportunity to explore the coastline on a stand-up paddle board. And for those who appreciate sea life, Agadir Dolphinarium in Anza, is a must see attraction.
In addition to water sports, Agadir is also well- known for its surfcasting and fishing opportunities. Several organised fishing trips take visitors to
the open sea, where they can fish for a variety of species, and the region’s fish restaurants are famous for their mouth-watering seafood delicacies, which are cooked to perfection using traditional methods.
For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region, a visit to the Souss Massa National Park is highly recommended. Covering 131 square miles, this park is home to unspoilt beaches, sand dunes, grassland steppes and charming fishing villages. The park is also rich in wildlife and a sanctuary for several endangered indigenous species like the North African ostrich, the Northern Bald Ibis, the addax, the dama gazelle, the Dorcas gazelle, or the scimitar oryx, which are all being reintroduced in the habitat. Furthermore, there are also many rare bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.
Taghazout was once a sleepy fishing village and in recent years is now a modern seaside resort that has become a mecca for surfers from across the world. It sits north of Agadir on the Atlantic coast with breath-taking views, from the Argan forest that runs alongside it, the seven kilometres long beach is bordered by the High Atlas Mountains, giving visitors a glimpse of the diversity of nature.
Here, wind whips up the Atlantic Ocean into impressive tubes that has made this legendary spot a surfer’s paradise since the 1970s with a relaxed and chilled out vibe. There are a choice of point and reef breaks to suit total beginners and seasoned pros, Anchor Point, for example, combines a powerful, right-hand breaking point known for its barrel waves. The best waves occur from September to April and there’s plenty of surf club and surf shops offering lessons and wetsuit
rentals. There are surf camps only five metres from the jump off point of Hash Point or Surf Shops, where the owners custom shape surfboards in their shaping rooms. There are many surf shops offering workshops where visitors can learn to custom shape their own boards.
Breath control, focus and flexibility are all important skills for surfers, so it goes without saying that as well as surf camps many places in Taghazout offer yoga and meditation retreats. Some of them offer daily classes in an open-air setting, while others offer aerial yoga using lengths of silk or luxury retreats where guests can practice Vinyasa, Power, Hatha, or Yin yoga.
Away from the beach visitors can explore the windy streets filled with beautiful white and blue buildings. The little streets wind down to the beach and are filled with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Some of them offer panoramic ocean views and plenty of fresh seafood, in a nod of the fishing village past, with cold beers or glasses of wine.
Many hotels and hostels offer day trips to nearby Paradise Valley, a secret oasis in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains on the Tamraght River that includes magnificent waterfalls and freshwater pools flanked by limestone cliffs.
For the cultural-minded Taghazout also offers the first Argan museum in the world, The Argan Centre tells the story of Argan and how the trees carry ecological, social, and human values. Or for those who want a day away from the water’s edge try Taghazout’s Skatepark, where concrete waves and plenty of pipes sit on the hillside above the town.
Taghazout Bay Resort
Taghazout Bay Resort is a 615-hectare site offering seven luxury, four to five star hotels, a holiday village, golf course and a shopping mall. The area has been named “an environmentally and friendly destination”, and was the first destination along the coast of Morocco to be labelled eco-responsible and internationally certified as a Well HQE Development.
The resort provides a harmonious integration, preserving the environment and natural resources by promoting the landscape and urban integration, sustainable behaviours and preserving water resources, ecosystems, and biodiversity.
Essaouira is one of Morocco’s best known port towns, boasting a fabulous beach and plenty of water sports, it is a well-known and popular location for kite and wind surfing enthusiasts. Located just three hours west of Marrakech, Essaouira is a great place to visit and certainly not limited to just water sports’ enthusiasts. The attractive port town is an interesting place to explore, and the beautiful sandy beach makes it a popular location for families.
Essaouira’s geographical location on the Atlantic coast and experiencing the northeast trade wind, create fabulous conditions for kite and windsurfing and the temperate climate means that it is always several degrees cooler than inland making it the perfect year-round destination.
The port town has a small medina in its very heart, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, there are many beautiful buildings which are architecturally very significant with its stunning mix of Portuguese and Andalusian buildings. Essaouira is a beautiful place to wander around and discover its cats colony, the art galleries, boutiques and cafes ending with a fantastic meal at one of the many excellent seafood restaurants located around the busy harbour, with its Sqala, shooting location of Game of Thrones’ Red City of Astapor.
Beach life Essaouira
Essaouira boasts a 2km sandy beach to the south of the medina with a wide paved promenade across the entire stretch, with plentiful food and ice-cream stalls. The beach is shallow and very wide and sandy, making it perfect for families with young children. There is also a play area with trampolines and at the end of the beach tourists can take a camel or horse ride or jump on a quad bike.
Along the beach there are numerous surf schools, which is one of the main pastimes in Essaouira.
Known as the ‘windy city’ of Africa, Essaouira is one of the best places in the world for kite surfing and has many kite surfing schools. The sport demands quite high fitness levels and will take several lessons for beginners to get the hang of it, but then the feeling of skimming over the waves is one not to be missed. All kite surfers wear a full harness and the more experienced show off their jumps and freestyle moves across the waves. Some of the better-known kite surfing schools provide traditional surfing and stand-up paddle boarding sessions as well. All schools will speak English, French, Spanish and Arabic.
The best time of the year to go kite surfing is in July when the wind speed reaches 35 km per hour, this tends to drop in September.
Sidi Kaouki
For those looking to explore further afield and for a low-key trip, head to Sidi Kaouki, only 30 minutes away. This sleepy village is worth a visit and is popular with surfers. There is a long, wide beach and is rapidly getting the reputation for one of the best surf spots in Morocco, helped by the Atlantic swells experienced in this area.
There is also horse and camel riding beachside and for those that can tear themselves away from the Atlantic swells, there is the chance to spot flamingos in the local river.
Formerly known as Mazagan until the turn of the 19th century, El Jadida is an Atlantic port city 90km southwest of Casablanca. It is a stylish and beautiful town, famous for its old Portuguese Citadel, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main attraction is the Manueline style Portuguese cistern, an impressive underground water reservoir, which was the chiaroscuro decor and shooting location of the 1950’s Orson Wells’ Othello film.
The beach here is very popular with overseas and Moroccan tourists alike, especially in the summer when the bars and restaurants are buzzing. For those who like water sport, the ocean here is quite lively and offers the perfect conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing or bodyboarding, but for the others who are in search of idleness, El Jadida main beach, also called Deauville beach, is the perfect place for sunbathing, long walks on its vast shore or camel and horseback riding.
Sidi Bouzid is 5km south of El Jadida and is annually ranked among the prestigious “Blue Flag” beaches for its high quality and high environmental standards. Additionally, the beach provides an international standard point break for surfers, with its regular, fast and powerful wave being ranked among the top ten in the world. When the wind conditions are right, the beach also becomes popular with kite and windsurfers alike.
Oualidia
Nearly 80km south of El Jadida is the lagoon area of Oualidia, a very picturesque resort which is famous for its Japanese oysters. Morocco’s first oyster farm was launched here in 1957 and nowadays it harvests some two hundred tonnes a year.
However, it is also a very popular beach resort and is excellent for surfing and windsurfing which is very safe as the ocean swell comes through a small gap in the lagoon, creating even waves for beginners to learn. On the other side of the lagoon, experienced surfers can take advantage of the strong conditions of the Atlantic Ocean, especially at the famous spot “Les Tomates” located near the tomatoes farm (15km south).
The area is also teeming with bird life, the area is an oasis for flamingos, herons and storks. There are several restaurants on the beachfront, famous for serving some of the best seafood in the area.
Safi
About 150km north of Marrakech is the port town of Safi. It is not one of Morocco’s better known tourist areas, but it is certainly worth a visit, not just for the beach life, the area is also famous for being inhabited for more than 300,000 years by Homo sapiens of lower palaeolithic, in Jbel Irhoud (80km southeast of the city) and of course its ceramics. Safi has a pottery quarter, which boasts some of the oldest pottery kilns in Morocco, where local crafts people create ceramics using the same methods that have been used for centuries. The National Ceramics Museum is also in Safi and houses some of the finest examples of Safi pottery in Morocco.
Perhaps one of the best-known buildings in Safi is the Kechla, which is an old Portuguese fortress – it is not open to the public but there are plenty of guides to show visitors around the outside and point out the stunning views over Safi. The Medina is also worth a visit and is full of winding alleyways and colourful street art.
The beaches at Safi are a big draw to visitors with Lalla Fatna probably the most famous beach of the city. Some say that Safi’s beaches have the most beautiful waves on the planet, benefitting from the powerful winds of the Atlantic coast. The wave at Safi even has a name; ‘Garden’, which is the most powerful roller of Morocco, at Ras Lefaa Point. It’s a tube of several hundred meters and several well- known surfers have been able to travel it for at least 15 seconds. For less accomplished surfers or those who want to brush up on their technique there are several surf schools at Safi.
The region boasts a unique blend of influences from both Africa and Europe, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking a captivating experience.
Beach life in Tangier and Tetouan of Morocco
The Tangier – Tetouan region is a paradise for beach lovers seeking sun, sand, and serenity. Nestled along the northern coast of Morocco, this breathtaking stretch of coastline boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in the country. Whether it’s basking in the warm sun, taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, or enjoying thrilling water sports, the beaches of Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima cater to all kinds of beachgoers, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty and coastal bliss.
As practical shots capture tourists relaxing and enjoying beach activities in the Tangier – Tetouan region, it becomes evident why this coastal haven is a top choice for vacationers. The images showcase a vibrant scene of people engaging in various activities along the shorelines. Families frolic in the gentle waves, building sandcastles and playing beach games, while couples take romantic strolls hand-in-hand, leaving footprints in the soft sand.
Tangier
Tangier, located in the northern part of Morocco, is a beautiful coastal city that offers visitors a unique beach life experience. With both Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches to choose from, visitors can explore relatively unknown gems like Dalia Beach, Achakar/Bakacem, Cap Spartel or Malabata making Tangier one of North Africa’s most stunning coastal sceneries.
Dalia beach is a true gem for beach enthusiasts seeking a serene and captivating retreat on the Mediterranean. With its rugged cliffs, lush vegetation, and soft golden sands, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing sunbathing session. Dalia Beach
also caters to adventure seekers, as it offers a variety of water sports activities to choose from. Visitors can engage in exhilarating experiences such as snorkelling to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, or try their hand at kayaking along the calm shoreline, exploring hidden coves and intriguing rock formations.
For those in search of a peaceful escape, Dalia Beach provides ample opportunities for leisurely walks along the shore, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. Whether it’s enjoying a captivating sunset, feeling the sand between their toes, or simply basking in the serenity of the beach, Dalia Beach promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.
Achakar Beach, also known as Bakacem, boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Situated along the stunning Atlantic coastline, Achakar offers visitors a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere to unwind and soak in the scenic vistas. The surroundings are renowned for their pristine beaches, where golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the warm sun. Near Achakar Beach are the Caves of Hercules, which offer glimpses into the mythological tradition, when Hercules stayed and slept in these caves before achieving its 11th labour of getting the golden apple from the Hesperides garden, supposed to be near Lixus (north of Loukkos river, Larache). Back to the shore from the caves, the continuous beach is a prime spot for water sports enthusiasts, who can partake in activities such as surfing, swimming, and beachside picnics. With its captivating coastal beauty and cultural allure, Achakar Beach beckons travellers to explore its hidden treasures.
Cap Spartel, situated at the north-western tip of Morocco, is a captivating destination that mesmerizes visitors with its rugged coastal beauty. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Cap Spartel offers breath- taking panoramic views, dramatic cliffs adorned with lush greenery and azure waters. Its iconic lighthouse stands tall, guiding ships and adding to the allure of the landscape. Travellers can explore the picturesque trails that wind through the surrounding forests, immersing themselves in the tranquillity of nature. At Cap Spartel, visitors can witness the meeting point of two great bodies of water, creating a truly enchanting sight and an unforgettable experience.
Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, Malabata district offers a picturesque setting for sun-seekers and beach enthusiasts. Situated on the eastern side of Tangier, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The beach offers a range of water sports activities, including surfing and jet skiing. Malabata’s lively promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, creating a bustling hub of activity. Visitors can savour delicious local cuisine, shop for traditional handicrafts, or simply relax with a cup of mint tea while admiring the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. To the North and with its vibrant energy and coastal allure on a rocky promontory, Cap Malabata and its lighthouse are a must-visit site for those seeking a delightful seaside view experience on the Gibraltar strait.
In addition to the beaches, Tangier also offers several cultural attractions worth exploring. The medina, located in the heart of the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys and bustling souks, where they can find local handicrafts, textiles, and spices.
Tetouan
Tetouan is a charming city in northern Morocco with a beautiful coastline and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, who also want to explore the rich history and culture of Morocco. It is known as the ‘daughter of Granada,’ and has Hispano-Moorish footmarks.
One of the most popular beaches in Tetouan is Martil Beach, located about 10km from the city centre. The beach is well-known for being a great spot for watching sunsets and has become a popular romantic place for an evening walk or picnic. The beach promenade is bustling with cafes, restaurants, and shops offering a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can savour delicious local cuisine, as it offers a variety of renowned restaurants, with their contemporary design and stunning sea views, that cater to diverse culinary preferences, from seafood to captivating fusion of Moroccan and French flavours : from traditional Moroccan tagines to French-inspired pastries, the menus are diverse and satisfying.
At the seaside resort of Tamouda Bay visitors will find a 15km fine, sandy bay in a luxurious setting on the Alboran Sea. Here visitors will be spoilt with views of the rugged Rif Mountains, the golden sands of neighbouring beaches and low-rise whitewashed buildings.
For those interested in scuba diving, the Diving Centre in Cabo Negro is a must-visit attraction. The centre offers a range of courses for beginners and experienced divers, and visitors can explore the rich underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea. The centre also offers equipment rentals for those who prefer to explore the sea on their own. In addition to water sports activities, visitors can also enjoy sailing lessons on the laser at the Tetouan Royal Yacht Club. The club offers courses for beginners and advanced sailors, and visitors can explore the stunning coastline while learning to sail.
With its very own ocean drive spanning thousands of miles, Morocco is one of the best destinations in the world for board sports and relaxing beach holidays. Many water sport professionals travel from near and far to take to the Atlantic Ocean waves with mythical spots Taghazout, Essaouira and Dakhla putting Morocco on the map.
Whether you dip your toes in the warm turquoise waters of the bay of Dakhla, ride the waves on the beach of Taghazout, taste fresh fish in a beachfront restaurant in Agadir or relax on the white golden sands of seaside resort, Saidia, beach life is paradise in the Kingdom of Light. Dive right in and discover why Morocco’s Beach and Sport options have the edge.
Morocco’s Beach and Sport options
Board sport is big in Morocco. It is no wonder with 3,500km of coastline that water sport enthusiasts have been visiting the country for centuries to take to the waves along both the Atlantic Ocean (3,000km of coastline) and Mediterranean Sea (500km of coastline). Whether surfing, paddle boarding or windsurfing there is a lot of choice for waters sports.
Surfing, kite surfing and wind surfing are some of the most popular water activities across the west coast and there are many choices of destinations whether you are a beginner or pro with water sport schools set up along the beaches.
Surfers have long since been visiting Morocco since the 1960s, where they can escape to the warmer climes of Morocco instead of Europe’s better-known destinations. From September through to March, surfers can find the best swells and perfect weather. So, whether looking for rocky bottoms or sandy ones, reef breaks or beach breaks there is a beach and a surf school for every visitor, whichever the level of expertise. The most famous surf spots lie north of Agadir and around the fishing village of Taghazout.
Morocco Beach Landscapes
For a more tranquil ride in calmer waters, why not try stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, or sailing in Dakhla and Essaouira. There’s a range of windsurfing conditions in Morocco from flat water
lagoons to world-class wave spots for the braver windsurfer. The wind in Morocco is strongest from July until August yet even from April to November conditions are reliable.
As well as more high energy water sports there are also many spots for snorkelling, sea fishing and diving. Many seaside resorts and beach side villages offer excursions where you can explore beneath the waters from underwater reefs, mystical caves, and varied sea life.
Sun and Sand
Morocco has a huge 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 174 beaches, spanning some 3,500km.
The top five beaches in Morocco according to TripAdvisor include:
A quieter beach south of Assilah Beach sustainability is also important to Morocco and currently 21 beaches hold ‘Blue Flag’ status, while many local hostels and water sport camps run beach clean-up initiatives.
Morocco is a visually stunning country that offers a diverse range of beach and water sports activities, making it a destination for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts.
Surfing in Taghazout
Morocco’s coastline is a paradise for surfers, and Taghazout is one of the best spots to catch the perfect wave. Its consistent swells and beautiful beaches attract surfers of all levels, from beginners to pros.
Windsurfing in Essaouira
Known as the ‘Wind City of Africa,’ Essaouira offers ideal conditions for windsurfing. With strong and steady winds, wide open beaches, and professional schools, it’s a fantastic place to learn or improve your windsurfing skills.
Kiteboarding in Dakhla
Located on a stunning lagoon, Dakhla is a mecca for kiteboarding enthusiasts. Its consistent winds and flat-water areas make it an ideal destination for both beginners and advanced kiteboarders.
Scuba Diving in the Mediterranean
Explore the underwater world off the Mediterranean coast of Morocco by scuba diving. Discover vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and explore sunken shipwrecks.
Deep-Sea Fishing in Agadir
Morocco’s Atlantic coastline is known for its rich marine life, making it an excellent destination for deep-sea fishing. Join a fishing charter in Agadir marina and try your luck at catching some of the regions prized fish species, such as marlin, swordfish and tuna.
Parasailing in Saidia
Get a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Moroccan coastline by indulging in parasailing in Saidia. Glide through the air while being towed behind a boat, enjoying breath-taking views and a thrilling experience.
Kayaking in Oualidia
Known for its picturesque lagoon, Oualidia is an ideal place for kayaking. Paddle through calm waters, explore hidden caves and observe a variety of bird species that inhabit the lagoon.
See the sights of Morocco by boat while sailing in the Strait of Gibraltar
Embark on a sailing adventure in the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the exhilaration of sailing, soak in the stunning coastal landscapes, and discover the beauty of Morocco from the sea.
Tangier is a city in northern Morocco that offers a unique blend of cultures and traditions. From the vibrant Kasbah district to the tranquil riads and gardens, it has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history at the Kasbah Museum, or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Hercules Caves. The Grand and Small Soccos offer a glimpse into Tangier’s bustling marketplaces, while the Villa Harris and Perdicaris Park provide a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Kasbah District
Moroccan architecture. Visitors can explore the many shops and cafes in this area, as well as visit the Kasbah Museum to learn about the history of the city. The Kasbah Mosque is also a must-see attraction, with its intricate tilework and beautiful octogonal minaret.
Hercules Caves
The Hercules Caves are a popular destination in Tangier located outside the city. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore these ancient caves, which are said to have been the mythical shelter of Hercules, before performing his 11th labour. The caves are also home to a natural spring where visitors can take a dip in the refreshing waters.
Grand & Small Socco
The Grand and Small Socco were once the bustling marketplaces of Tangier, and still retain much of their historic charm. Visitors can browse the many stalls selling food, beverage and traditional Moroccan handicrafts, including clothes, jewellery, carpets and leather goods. The Grand Mosque and the Cinema Rif are also located in this area.
Riads
Riads are traditional Moroccan houses with a central courtyard, often converted into boutique hotels. Many of these riads are located in the heart of Tangier’s old city, offering visitors a chance to experience its history and culture in a unique way. Some of the most popular riads in Tangier were houses of some town officials, ambassadors, artists or just common people.
Gardens and Forests
Tangier is also home to several beautiful gardens and forests, which offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Villa Harris is a historic mansion located in a lush garden setting and is open to the public for tours. At the West coast of Tangier, not so far from the beautiful Diplomatic Forest, the Perdicaris Park is another popular destination, with its stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and its resident colony of Barbary macaques.
Located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, Casablanca is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity and tradition. It is the country’s largest city and its economic and cultural capital, attracting visitors from all over the world. Known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, Casablanca has something for everyone. From the towering Hassan II Mosque to the historic Old Medina, the city is a feast for the senses. Its bustling markets, tree-lined boulevards and world-class places of cultural exchange are a testament to the city’s rich history and culture.
Medina
Moroccan Culture
This old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways that wind their way through a maze of colourful shops, cafes, and stalls. The sights, sounds, and smells of the medina are truly unforgettable, and it’s a great place to get lost for a few hours, sampling local delicacies and haggling with shopkeepers over souvenirs. As the sun sets over the medina, the atmosphere changes, and the energy picks up. The vibrant streets come alive with street performers and musicians, and the sound of traditional music fills the air. The medina’s historic landmarks, such as the ancient city walls and the Palace of Justice, are bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Visitors can watch craftsmen at work in their workshops or explore the hidden corners of the medina, stumbling upon ancient fountains and ornate doorways.
Habbous District
Nestled behind the medina, the Habbous district in Casablanca is a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture. Known for its white-washed buildings, elegant arches and intricate tilework, the district is a feast for the eyes. This area was built by the French in the early 20th century and is characterised by its beautiful architecture and elegant arcades. The Habbous district is home to some of the city’s best traditional markets and artisanal shops selling handmade goods like leather bags, ceramics, and jewellery.
Visitors can wander through its narrow streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling souks and local markets. The district is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. In the evening, the district comes alive with a lively nightlife scene with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to choose from.
Hassan II mosque
The Hassan II Mosque is a true masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, located on the coast of Casablanca. Completed in 1993, the mosque is one of the largest in the world, with a capacity of over 100,000 worshippers. Its stunning minaret, which stands at 210 meters, is the tallest in the world, visible from miles away. The mosque’s intricate design features exquisite marble floors, ornate tilework and intricate wood carvings. Its location on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean adds to its breath-taking beauty, with waves crashing against the walls during high tide. A visit to the Hassan II Mosque is a truly unforgettable experience, a testament to Morocco’s rich cultural heritage and devotion to Islam.
Boulevard
Stretching over several kilometres through the heart of the city, the Boulevard d’Anfa in Casablanca is the city’s main artery, a bustling thoroughfare that captures the energy and vitality of this vibrant metropolis. Lined with palm trees, elegant cafes and luxury shops, the Boulevard is a shopper’s paradise, offering a mix of local and international brands.
The Boulevard is graced by the L’boulevard Festival, each year bringing together young music groups and graffiti artists. Young music groups across hip-hop/rap, rock/metal and fusion genres cme together to showcase their talents while graffiti artists are given the chance to paint large murals on the city walls. Famous Moroccan artists such as Zanka Flow, Don Bigg and H-Kayne have emerged from the event.
The area is knowns for its street art and pop culture. Street art depicts women, children, street vendors, cartoon-like characters and splashes of pop art telling the history of the city. This is a great place to see how Moroccan youths are expressing themselves through their art and music.
In the evenings, the Boulevard comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants to choose from.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Atlas Mountains in Morocco lies the charming city of Ouarzazate, a true oasis in the heart of the desert. Known as the ‘Door of the Desert,’ Ouarzazate offers a wealth of stunning sights and experiences that are sure to enchant every traveller. From ancient ksars to stunning natural landscapes, traditional handicrafts to Hollywood film studios, Ouarzazate has something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to experience the best of Moroccan culture.
Ksar Aït Benhaddou
One of the must-visit places in Ouarzazate is Ksar Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortified village features traditional Moroccan architecture, with buildings made from clay and stone, an earth architecture gem. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the ksar and admire its intricate details.
Oasis Valleys, Kasbahs, and Ksars
Ouarzazate is surrounded by lush oasis valleys, which are home to palm groves and traditional kasbahs (fortified houses). Visitors can take a tour of the valleys to experience the local way of life and see the stunning architecture of the kasbahs and ksars (fortified villages). The Skoura Oasis is a popular destination, famous for its beautiful kasbahs and palmeraie (palm groves), along the 1000 kasbahs route.
Rose Valley and Saffron Valley
Ouarzazate is also known for its stunning rose and saffron valleys. The Rose Valley is home to Morocco’s rose capital, Kalaat M’Gouna, where visitors can witness the annual rose harvest and visit local distilleries to see how rose water and perfumes are made. In the Saffron Valley, visitors can see the harvest of one of the world’s most expensive spices, saffron.
Dades & Todra Gorges
Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the Dades and Todra Gorges, two of the most stunning natural landscapes in Morocco. The Dades Gorge is known for its unique rock formations, while the Todra Gorge is famous for its towering cliffs and crystal-clear water. Visitors can take guided tours to explore these breath-taking landscapes and experience hiking or rock climbing.
Carpet Handicrafts
Ouarzazate is famous for its traditional carpet handicrafts, made by local Amazigh women. Visitors can visit a local cooperative to witness the art of carpet weaving and purchase a unique souvenir to take home with them, especially in the picturesque locality of Taznakht.
Cinema Studios
Ouarzazate is also known as the ‘Hollywood of Africa’ due to its many film studios. Visitors can visit the Atlas Studios to see where famous movies such as “Gladiator” and “Lawrence of Arabia” were filmed. The CLA Studios is another popular destination, where visitors can see props and costumes used in famous films.
