Morocco

Fez

Sahara Desert

Ouarzazate

Atlas Mountains

Marrakesh

Taghazout

Departed Brussels with anticipation building as the flight headed toward North Africa. Arrived in Fez ready to dive headfirst into authentic Moroccan culture and centuries-old traditions.

The medina's labyrinth of narrow streets twisted through markets brimming with spices, leather goods, and textiles. The leather tanneries were particularly mesmerizing watching artisans work with techniques unchanged for centuries. The energy, colors, and sounds created an immersive experience into Moroccan heritage. It was a more traditional Maroccon city if you compare it with for example Marrakesh. The Medina is endless and it get hot during the day & summer.

The drive south toward the Sahara marked a dramatic shift in scenery. Mountain landscapes gradually gave way to increasingly arid terrain, each kilometer building anticipation. The transition itself was a journey worth experiencing. It was a long drive but we did some stops, to eat Tazjin & also at the monkey forest was a pleasant suprise.

An exhilarating quad tour through the Sahara, racing toward the Algerian border while witnessing mines and endless dry landscape. The raw energy and scale of the desert revealed itself up close as we tore through the dunes and explored terrain few tourists ever see.

A one-hour camel trek to reach our desert camp, honestly brutal on the rear end, and I had concerns for the camels' wellbeing (though they're surprisingly strong). Would I do it again? Probably not. But watching the sunset over endless dunes and falling asleep under a sky absolutely blazing with stars? That was absolutely crazy and unforgettable. The heat here is intense, it rises quickly and demands respect.

Ouarzazate delivered an unexpected cinematic dimension to the journey. Explored the film studios where blockbuster productions have been shot, then visited Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, an ancient mud-brick fortress town that looks like it belongs in a film itself. Standing amid these adobe structures, you're transported centuries back in time.

The 20-hour drive through the Atlas Mountains was intense and unforgettable. Winding roads climbing higher through dramatic peaks, passing Berber villages clinging to mountainsides, experiencing ecosystems shift dramatically in a single day. It's astonishing how Morocco compresses such diverse landscapes into one country within hours you traverse desert, mountains, and multiple climate zones.

Marrakesh pulses with vibrant energy. Jemaa el-Fnaa square captivates with snake charmers, musicians, and storytellers. The souks are an overwhelming maze of sights, scents, and sounds spice merchants, textile vendors, and traditional craftspeople everywhere. The palaces and gardens offer elegant respite. After exploring thoroughly, I realized 2-3 days captures Marrakesh well; I'd recommend adding time to nearby Mount Toubkal for an entirely different experience.

Taghazout provided the perfect ending a complete tonal shift from the intensity of previous stops. This charming coastal town perches on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. The bohemian, relaxed atmosphere allows time to decompress. Fresh seafood, creative energy, and stunning sunsets over the ocean create a peaceful conclusion to an epic journey. Surfing here seems nice but when i was there the waves weren't there so we just did a beach day or 2 and explored the city of Taghazout.

Flew back to Brussels with head full of memories and heart full of gratitude. Twelve days that spanned ancient medinas, endless deserts, towering mountains, and tranquil coasts. Morocco proved to be one of those rare destinations that exceeds even the highest expectations.

Dramatic mountain terrain and Berber settlements nestled among towering peaks where ancient traditions meet breathtaking alpine scenery

Golden dunes stretching to the horizon. A vast, otherworldly landscape best explored in the early morning before the intense afternoon heat

An ancient maze of narrow streets and traditional architecture. One of the oldest imperial cities, where centuries of history come alive

Stunning Islamic architecture showcasing the depth of Moroccan craftsmanship. This Koranic school exemplifies the artistry woven throughout the city

A desert drive that revealed the raw beauty and vastness of the Sahara an experience entirely unlike anything I'd encountered before

Behind-the-scenes look at the 'Hollywood of Morocco' where famous films are shot against stunning desert and mountain backdrops

Sleeping under the Sahara sky reveals nature's grandeur the Milky Way stretches overhead in stunning clarity. A truly humbling experience

Just 30 minutes from Fez lies a delightful forest sanctuary teeming with monkeys a charming escape from the bustling medina

The Atlas Mountains crossing is challenging but essential, the 20-hour drive delivers some of Morocco's most dramatic landscapes and reveals the country's incredible geographical diversity

Stay in traditional riads in the medinas, they offer charm, authenticity, affordability, and genuine cultural immersion unavailable in modern hotels

Hire a knowledgeable guide for Sahara exploration, it ensures safety and unlocks deep insights into Berber culture and desert traditions you'd otherwise miss

Bargaining in souks is expected etiquette, start at roughly half the asking price and enjoy the friendly negotiation process as part of the cultural experience

Learn basic French phrases. Many locals, particularly older generations, speak French more fluently than English; 'Bonjour' and 'Merci' open more doors than expected

Prepare properly for the mountain drive. Bring adequate snacks, water, medication for motion sickness, and settle in for a bumpy but rewarding journey

Prioritize time in Taghazout after intense travel, this laid-back coastal town offers perfect recovery time and shouldn't be rushed