A vibrant country where you will have unforgettable experiences, if you are thinking about making a trip to Morocco with your group of friends, we will explain all the reasons why it is the perfect destination.
In Morocco there is time for everything, from walking through the medinas of the imperial cities and losing yourself in the souks while haggling and having a laugh, to traversing the desert in a 4×4. Whether you are more of a beach or a mountain kind of person, you will find dream landscapes. And although you may think the opposite, Morocco’s nightlife has a lot to say. Read to find out about all the things to do in this amazing country.
Maze-like medinas and souks
Marrakesh and Fez are must-visit destinations, which must be on your list of top places to visit if travelling to Morocco as a group. Marrakesh is one of the most vibrant cities in the country with the most options on offer. Jemaa el Fna square is the true heart of the city and pure effervescence. Every single minute a different kind of spectacle occurs, filled with snake charmers, jugglers and all kinds of characters. Fun is guaranteed on this amazing square. Head deep into the souk to experience the Moroccan atmosphere and practice the art of haggling. Culture is everywhere you look in this city, so make the most of it.
The size of the medina of Fez is truly overwhelming, with the streets of the souk forming a kind of spider’s web in which getting lost is guaranteed and all part of the charm. Make sure you are well rested before you go, as more than 7,000 shop-lined streets will wear anyone out. The perfect group photo can be taken in front of the tanneries of Fez, one of the city’s most iconic images, where leather is still dyed the traditional way. Let the chaos win you over.
Moroccan nightlife
Seeing the most beautiful landmarks and traditional Moroccan architecture doesn’t have to be at odds with going out partying in Morocco. No doubt your evening plans are just as important as your day-time plans, so your trip with friends is as great as possible. The nightlife in Marrakesh is some of the liveliest. If you fancy something more typical, stay on Jemaa el Fna square, as everyone heads out onto the street when the sun goes down. The square is filled with street performances by musicians and mobile restaurants where you can try Moroccan specialities. Many of the restaurants that line the square have terraces and amazing panoramic views. Café Sesame, with its chillout terrace, is one of the most popular spots, although it does not normally sell alcohol.
The new town of Marrakesh, both Gueliz and Hivernage, have much more western-style nightlife. The bars and restaurants in the area are international and most serve alcoholic drinks. Nightclubs are also concentrated in the area, although entry is not very cheap and you must be well dressed. Pacha is one of the most famous nightclubs, with the most exotic décor and an impressive pool with views of the Atlas mountains. Theatro and Silver are also some of the most popular spots.
Casablanca, one of the largest cities in Morocco, also has a wide range of nightlife options, since it is a popular tourist destination. One of the busiest spots is Boulevard de La Corniche, in the Ain Diab area. A type of seaside promenade along the coast, it is home to some of the best restaurants, nightclubs and cabarets in Casablanca. If you are after a quieter evening with live music, you are in the right place. Manhattan Club, Armstrong Jazz Club and the iconic Rick’s Café are great places to have a drink and listen to a good jazz or pop group.
One city that has been getting a lot of attention lately in terms of nightlife is Kenitra, which is about 50 kilometres from Rabat. The city is famous for being one of the most lively cities for nightlife in the whole country. Most of the city’s bars and clubs are close to the sea, although there are also some in the centre. You will find a host of terraces and lively spots where a great deal of young people go for a fun night out.
Crossing the Atlas mountains by car
Hiring a car, if you are together with a group of friends in Morocco, is an excellent idea for a proper road trip. Crossing the fascinating landscapes that separate Marrakesh and the start of the Sahara desert will be a true adventure.
This itinerary is also known as the Route of the 1,000 Kasbahs. Here, the roads wind through the mountains and some are truly breathtaking. Caution at the wheel is essential on these types of journeys and you should especially be aware of the lorries. Nevertheless, it is well worth hiring a 4×4 and enjoying the experience together.
You will be able to visit the amazing kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, the cliffs that form the Dadès valley and the over 100-metre-tall canyons of the Todra gorge. The landscapes will leave you with magnificent photos.
Finally, the route will end in the desert, the most famous of which is Merzouga, closely followed by the Zagora desert. A camel ride to see the finest sunset amid the dunes, a ride on a quad bike, spending an upbeat evening set to the rhythm of Berber drums and enjoying a star-filled sky, will put the finishing touches on your road trip.
Morocco’s beaches
One of the best things to do when travelling in the company of friends is to spend a few lovely days at the beach. In Morocco you will find completely unspoilt beaches, in many cases next to cities that are well worth discovering, as is the case of Essaouira. This beautiful walled city by the sea has a medina that is a Unesco World Heritage Site. At the port you can eat fresh fish as well as discovering its magnificent beaches.
The coastal road that goes from Essaouira to Agadir, another popular beach destination, is a perfect route to do by car, allowing you to stop at picturesque fishing villages and endless beaches with golden sand. Many of them are perfect for surfing if you are fans of the sport.
When Morocco is your destination, you will have an endless array of things to do with friends. Don’t forget to pass through Chefchaouen, the Blue City and one of the most magical places in the country. In the imperial city of Meknes you can journey back in time to another era. If you fancy an excursion in the middle of nature, be sure to visit the spectacular Ouzoud waterfalls, which reach a height of over 100 metres. And, what about a hot air balloon ride so you remember this trip for the rest of your life?
