12 Hidden Gems in Morocco That'll Give You Wanderlust

In the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, Demnate is surrounded by some of the most picturesque scenery in southern Morocco. It’s a fantastic place for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. One must-visit spot is the gorge and natural stone arch of Imi n’Ifri. A bird conservation area, it attracts keen ornithologists. Venture deeper into the mountains to Iwaridene and you can see dinosaur tracks in the reddish rocks. The city of Demnate is one of the oldest cities in southern Morocco and has a small medina where you can experience the local way of life.

In the northern part of central Morocco, the city of Khenifra enjoys a picturesque location alongside the Oum Er-Rbia river and is surrounded by the Atlas Mountains. Nature lovers should visit Khenifra National Park, a short distance from the main city. It is home to two beautiful lakes and fragrant Atlas cedar trees. You can also visit the source of the Oum Er-Rbia, with its waterfall that tumbles down the reddish-brown rocks.

In north Morocco, Larache sits alongside the Atlantic Coast. A stroll through the white-washed walls of the medina is a great way to see how people live in this Spanish colonial-influenced city. Relax in the tranquil Jardin de Lions and take plenty of photographs of the street art. Detailed and colourful paintings cover long walls in the city centre, with natural scenes, buildings and social messages.

In northeast Morocco, close to the border with Algeria, Oujda combines a long history with a modern outlook. It is a peaceful city that is great for spending a few days relaxing and taking leisurely walks around the souks and medina. The pretty Park Lalla Aicha is popular with locals on hot days. Highlights include the old gateway that leads into the medina and the large clock – called Le Horloge – on Boulevard Mohammed V.

El Jadida sits on the Atlantic Coast. Despite being a popular summer holiday destination for Moroccans, the city attracts relatively few foreign visitors. The atmospheric remains of the Unesco-listed Mazagan Fortress provide great views over the ocean and city. The architecture in the medina is more akin to that in Europe. The water cisterns provide an unusual attraction; open every day, it costs just a few Moroccan dirhams to head underground and explore. The nearest beaches can get quite packed with domestic holidaymakers during the summer. Head a short way from the city, however, and there are quiet and clean stretches of golden sands, lapped by cool sea waters, with barely a soul in sight.

Ouezzane, in northern Morocco, is a terrific destination for anyone interested in religious history and culture; indeed, the town was previously often referred to as the spiritual heartland of the country. Moroccan Jews visit Ouezzane on pilgrimage, visiting the tombs of saints. One tomb in particular – that of an 18th-century rabbi called Amram ben Diwan – is said to have been the scene of several miracles. The Jewish part of town has attractive tiled buildings with a distinct Andalusian flavour. Ouezzane is also important for Muslims – especially those who practise Sufism – with many Sufi shrines around the town. Non-Muslim visitors can admire the intricate Moulay Adbullah Sharif Mosque from outside the gates.

A bustling port city and former Portuguese colony on the Atlantic Coast, Safi is split into old and new areas. The newer area has the eerie ruins of the cathedral built by the Portuguese and charming seaside holiday homes. The older area has traditional homes and pottery shops displaying locally made, colourful wares. Head into the hills overlooking the city – to Collines des Potiers – to see how local ceramics are made. There are two historic Portuguese fortresses to explore, too: Dar al Bahar and the Kechla. The sea offers powerful waves which are great for surfing enthusiasts. The city is known for having created the biggest sardine tagine in the world. Made in 1999, the dish is now displayed in the city centre.

Northern Morocco’s small port town of El Jebha is nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Rif Mountains. While the dusty town may appear to offer little of interest at first glimpse, a boat ride reveals spectacular views of the harbour and curved bay, offset wonderfully by the mountains in the background.

A popular domestic holiday destination along the Atlantic Coast, Oualidia is a fine place to relax on sandy beaches and swim in the refreshing sea. The curved lagoon is one of the most picturesque in Morocco. Seafood restaurants are abundant, and the area is especially known for fresh oysters. Take a trip to the nearby wetlands in spring or autumn to see a variety of enchanting bird life, including pink flamingos.

A scenic paradise close to the popular tourist destination of Ouarzazate, Fint Oasis sits on the edge of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. The name alone should be an enticement to visit; it means ‘hidden’ in Amazigh, the language of the Berbers. The oasis is surrounded by palm and fruit trees, which offer plenty of shade in the heat of the day. The lush greenery is a striking contrast to the black rocks around the valley and the desert terrain.

Almost halfway between Marrakech and Rabat, the city of Settat has one of the prettiest golf courses in the country. It also has a horse-racing heritage, with a large horse statue standing in the heart of the city and a race track close to the centre.

Within easy reach of Agadir, the small Berber village of Imouzzer Ida Ou Tanane holds a secret – it has one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Morocco (best viewed between February and August). Reached by travelling through the beautifully named Paradise Valley, there are two sets of cascades to admire.

Discover some of Morocco’s many hidden gems, as well as some old favourites, on one of the many amazing multi-day tour itineraries in our Morocco collection. Whichever way you like to travel, there’s a trip in there that’s sure to suit your taste.