Exploring the Unique Culture of Morocco with Family

Our trip started off the coast of Spain in Algeciras, where we boarded a ferry for the trip to Morocco. A highlight of the experience was seeing the Rock of Gibraltar on route to our landing in Tangiers. It also marked yet another mode of transportation for our trip, something my children like to count up at the end of each adventure. By the end of this particular trip, we had hit 12 modes of transportation in total.

The first place we visited was Chefchaoquen. We arrived at night, and did see crowded restaurants filled with locals, but it was not until morning that we saw the hilly landscape and beautiful blue colors that this town is famous for. Take my word for it, the ENTIRE town is covered in every single shade of blue imaginable. From turquoise blue to sky blue to cobalt blue to sapphire blue to cornflower blue and every single shade of blue in between. The best way to experience Chefchaoquen? A walking tour. Every hill and alley presents something new, and from sunrise to sunset was a delight. Highlights of this area are the Spanish Mosque, Ras el Maa Waterfall, Bridge of God, and Talassemtane National Park.

In Fez, walk through the Medina. The crowds can be intimidating, but that’s half the fun. Being the city’s oldest neighborhood and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stroll through this city’s ancient quarter is like being in a maze. It is filled with open markets, shops, and mosques. We toured with a guide and saw the Jewish quarter, golden gates of the Royal Palace, and the iconic blue gate at the entrance to the old city!

Also in Fez, take in the smells at the Chouara Tannery. The smell is definitely a bit overwhelming (and not in a good way), but they’ll offer you a sprig of mint to hold under your nose to help alleviate the pungent odor. Watching how they prepare and color hides is incredible. And inside their shop you’ll find thousands of leather goods, from colorful Moroccan slippers, backpacks, and purses, to jackets and shoes.

The next stop was Marrakech, ​​where we did an ATV Ride through the dunes, ending at an upscale home/zoo where we sat and relaxed and had mint tea (they serve it everywhere). It was a very fun outing and a great way to see a larger area. And a departure from the leisurely camel ride we had taken earlier that day! Two more modes of transportation to add to our list!

We didn’t get to the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains on our trip but heard nothing but positive comments from those we met, and I would definitely add those two places to my next Morocco itinerary.

NOMAD is a modern Moroccan restaurant in Marrakech with a strong focus on local, fresh seasonal ingredients. Every dish has an amazing Moroccan twist. We went there for New Year’s Eve and sat on the rooftop. A great experience.

At the Dar Elrio hotel, where we stayed in Fez, they serve breakfast on the rooftop. The service was incredible and the array of delicious breakfast items, unmatched. Being there made breakfast, the best meal of the day.

Also in Marrakech, you can’t go wrong with any of the four restaurants in La Mamounia. With Asian, Mediterranean, Italian, and Moroccan cuisine to choose from, you will be a well-sated and happy camper.