The backpacker scene in Morocco is vibrant and diverse, offering a unique experience for travelers. The country is a popular destination for backpackers due to its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and affordable prices.
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Backpacking Morocco in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Morocco with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Morocco
Embark on a sensory journey in Morocco, where vibrant markets, Sahara dunes, and historic cities beckon backpackers. Pros? Immerse in a rich blend of cultures, enjoy affordable local cuisine, and explore diverse landscapes from mountains to deserts. The well-established tourist trail ensures ease of travel, but be prepared for persistent touts. Morocco stands out for its accessibility, offering a taste of Africa with a touch of Europe, making it an ideal destination for backpackers seeking an exotic and culturally rich experience with a touch of adventure.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Morocco
Backpackers
Food
The food in Morocco is so good because it is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that has been influenced by various cultures and civilizations over the centuries. Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and a wide variety …
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Mountains
The Atlas Mountains in Morocco are great to explore for various reasons. Firstly, they offer stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. The High Atlas range is particularly popular, with its snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque Berber …
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People
Morocco is known for its warm and welcoming people, who embody a strong sense of hospitality. The Moroccan culture places a high value on treating guests with respect and generosity. Whether it is a friend, family member, or a stranger, Moroccans …
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Architecture
Morocco is home to an array of ancient ruins and interesting architecture, including the well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city of Fes is known for its ancient medina, a maze of narrow streets and bustling …
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Cheap
The average cost for backpacking in Morocco is around $30-50 per day. This includes accommodation in budget hostels or guesthouses, meals at local restaurants or street food stalls, and transportation via buses or trains between cities. Activities …
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Scenery
Morocco offers a diverse range of stunning sceneries to explore. The bustling medinas and ancient architecture of cities like Marrakech and Fez provide a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. The tranquil beauty of the Atlas …
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Beach life
Morocco is great for beach life and snorkeling due to its stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The country offers a wide variety of beautiful beaches, from the popular tourist spots to more secluded and untouched …
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Uniqueness
Exploring Morocco is a unique and off the beaten track experience due to its rich and diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient history. From the bustling medinas of cities like Marrakech and Fez to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Morocco
- Visit Marrakech: Known as the ”Red City,” Marrakech offers a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling souks, stunning palaces, and lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Experience the rich history and culture of Morocco in this enchanting city.
- Explore the Sahara Desert: Embark on a desert adventure and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara. Ride a camel through the golden dunes, camp under the starry sky, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this vast desert.
- Discover Chefchaouen: Wander through the charming blue streets of Chefchaouen. This picturesque town nestled in the Rif Mountains is known for its vibrant blue buildings, making it a perfect place for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
- Visit Fes: Step back in time and explore the historic city of Fes. Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the medina, visit the world’s oldest university, and admire the intricate architecture of its mosques and palaces.
- Experience the Atlas Mountains: Embark on a hiking or trekking adventure in the Atlas Mountains. Marvel at the stunning landscapes, traditional Berber villages, and enjoy panoramic views from the mountain peaks.
But Morocco offers more...
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Traveled route: Marrakesh, Merzouga, Toubkal
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Morocco
The best time to visit Morocco for backpacking is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country.
In spring, you can witness the blooming of beautiful flowers and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Autumn offers similar advantages, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season in summer.
Additionally, during these periods, you can also experience various cultural events and festivals such as the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music or the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival.
In spring, you can witness the blooming of beautiful flowers and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Autumn offers similar advantages, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season in summer.
Additionally, during these periods, you can also experience various cultural events and festivals such as the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music or the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival.
Risk level: medium (50%)Safety advice for Morocco
- Terrorism is a risk in Morocco. Tourist areas and public places are possible targets. Be alert to possible threats. Avoid known targets. The risk increases in remote mountain areas, the south and border areas.
- There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests occurring around the country linked to the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. There's an increased threat of attacks against Israel and Israeli interests. Follow the advice from local authorities and monitor media for any updates.
- Large public gatherings and protests can turn violent. Avoid demonstrations. Take care on weekends and around Friday prayers.
- Foreigners are at high risk of serious crime across North Africa. This risk increases in remote areas. Don't hike alone in mountainous or isolated areas. Get professional security advice before travelling to border areas.
- Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Tourists have been mugged when walking at night. Keep your belongings close. Don't walk in isolated areas or along dark streets at night.
- You may face aggressive begging and harassment, particularly near ATMs. Female travellers may be sexually harassed. Take care when using ATMs. Avoid walking or travelling alone.
- Scams and fraud are common. These include double-charging credit cards and replacing your purchased goods with lower-quality ones. Australians have fallen victim to fake internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes in Morocco.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
MoroccoMy tips to get you on the way!Does Morocco sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Morocco. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Morocco may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Morocco. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Morocco may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Morocco, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Morocco, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 28 September 2024