TRICIA STEVENS
PERSPECTIVES
MOROCCO
Morocco is a country with so many diverse landscapes from snow-capped mountains, to orange-hued deserts as far as the eye can see, breezy coastal towns, and chaotic bustling cities (where you will, no doubt, be sure to get lost within the walls of the medinas). Morocco surprisingly presents something for every type of traveler.
ABSOLUTE MUSTS
Spend the Night in the Sahara Desert
A camel trek into the Erg Chebbi Desert (near Merzouga) should certainly be one of the items on your to-do list in Morocco. Riding a camel requires some balance but you’ll settle in comfortably after some practice. Take in the magnificent views of this famous desert which is home to dunes as high as 450 feet! Watching the golden hues of the sunset and sunrise from the top of a dune is simply glorious, and camping under the stars while enjoying the sounds of Berber music will have you wondering if you’re dreaming.
Atlas Mountains (Mount Toubkal)
North Africa’s highest mountain range runs almost 1000km across Morocco and is home to some of North Africa’s most remote villages. Some of the locals measure distances by hours and days (the amount of time it usually takes to travel between destinations). These mountains are paradise for hikers.
Get Scrubbed at a Hamman Bath
A hammam is a public steam bath used by Moroccans who may not have had the luxury of a private bathroom. Hammams were (and still are) a social gathering place where people could come to socialize and bathe. It not only offers a chance to have an incredible (and painful for some!) exfoliation done, it’s a wonderful cultural experience, in addition to many laughs. Although a local hammam is highly recommended to truly experience life like a local, there are more upscale options available as well that do not require you to bathe with strangers!
Get Lost in Fez Medina
Fez has one of the most well-preserved medinas (‘old cities’) in the Muslim world and it is also one of the most complex labyrinth cities in the world, making it easy to find yourself lost. The Fez medina is a labyrinth of nearly 10,000 alleys and home to numerous shops selling anything from clothes, to food, to jewelry, and household items. With the alleys being so narrow, the medina is a car-free zone, and the only way to transport items inside the medina is by using a mule or a small chariot. Motorbikes however are seen more often these days. Its beautiful historical buildings dating back to medieval times include palaces, mosques, and homes. An 8km fortified wall surrounds the buildings which was used to keep invaders out of the city. Fez Medina is also the location of the oldest university in the world.
Djemma El Fna
The ancient square known as Djemma El Fna is where you will find numerous activities in Marrakech. This square is filled with snake charmers, dancers, musicians, shops, and food vendors. It is the heart of the city. If you have yet to purchase your souvenirs, this is an ideal time to do so. Wind your way through the bustling souks and heckle for the best deals on hand-made carpets, colourful Moroccan lamps, ceramics, leather shoes, jewellery, and bags. Be sure to stick around into the evening when the square transforms into a high energy, local-filled food stall haven.
Explore Essaouira
This windy city on the coast of Morocco has a laid back vibe, unlike most cities in the country. Until the end of the 19th century, Essaouira was the main port in the entire country bringing goods from the trade routes. It is also a city where many hippies flocked to in the 1960s and 1970s. Several famous artists like Cat Stevens and Jimi Hendrix lived in the city for a short period of time. Spend some time strolling along the beach, or wander through the port and watch the fishermen unload their catch of the day. If you enjoy fish, this is the perfect spot to treat yourself to a fresh fish tangine, which is a famous dish in Morocco.
Chouara Tannery
This 11th Century tannery, located in Fez, is said to be the oldest in the world. Witness the tanners hard at work while they stand waist-deep in stone vessels filled with dye. The leather tannery techniques have barely changed to this day. Arrive early in the morning before the afternoon sun hits. The scent from the vessels can be very powerful as the temperature climbs. It may have you holding your breath, or feeling nauseous at times, but how else would you imagine wet animal hydes and ammonia might smell?!
Ait Benadhou
This fortified city (dating back to the 11th century) sits along the former caravan route between Marrakech and Timbuktu. Ait Benadhou was home to many people who earned a living by providing food, water, and shelter to the traders that passed through. Camels would carry slaves, gold, and spices to Marrakech where they would exchange these items for salt. Wind your way through the maze of narrow alleys and head up to the top for a view of the valley below. Visiting prior to sunset provides the best golden glow.
