EXPLORING THE VIBRANT WONDERS OF MOROCCO
Eden Boutique Hotel, Dades Valley, High Atlas Mountains
My recent trip to Morocco was nothing short of magical. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, every corner of this country offered something new and unexpected. The vibrant colors, rich aromas, and warm hospitality created an unforgettable experience. Whether wandering through ancient medinas or sipping mint tea at sunset, Morocco's charm left a lasting impression on me. Here's a glimpse into my journey through this captivating land.
Day 1: Touching down in Casablanca
The moment I landed in Casablanca, my adventure kicked off in style! My fantastic guide, Mustapha, and superstar driver, Adil, whisked me away to the iconic Rick’s Café—yes, that Rick’s Café—where I savoured a dinner packed with delicious flavours and lively vibes. Post-feast, we took a leisurely stroll around the breathtakingly lit Hassan II Mosque, its glow after dark casting pure magic over the night. Talk about a grand entrance!
The bar at Rick’s Café
Rick’s Café
Hassan II Mosque
Day 2: Casablanca to Fes
We kicked off the day bright and early, hitting the road to Meknes for a delicious alfresco lunch. Next stop: the ancient Roman city of Volubilis. Though only fragments of the city remain, the site was captivating—especially the intricate mosaic floors, some dating all the way back to the 1st to 3rd centuries!
After soaking up the history, we continued our journey to Fes, stopping first at the stunning Royal Palace. From there, we wandered through the enchanting 9th-century Fes Medina, a labyrinth of sights, sounds, and smells—and the largest Medina in the Arab world! Finally, we arrived at the delightful Riad Salam, our charming home for the next two nights.
Roman ruins at Volubilis
Mosaic floors, Volubilis
Royal Palace, Fes
Entering Fes Medina
One of several courtyards at Riad Salam
Making bread in Fes Medina
The view from the rooftop at Riad Salam
My lovely tiled room at Riad Salam, Fes
Beautifully presented Moroccan salads at the rooftop restaurant, Riad Salam
Day 3: Exploring Fes, the cultural soul of Morocco
We kicked off the day with a scrumptious (and oh-so-plentiful!) breakfast at Riad Salam before diving into the heart of Fes with our guide, Mustapha. Known as the cultural soul of Morocco, Fes is a treasure trove for shoppers, bursting with vibrant souks filled with handcrafted goods, fragrant spices, and charming souvenirs. While the Medina’s labyrinth of alleyways can feel like a maze, Mustapha’s expert guidance made exploring a breeze—and packed with fascinating tidbits!
Our tour took us to the iconic leather tanneries, the buzzing copper workshops at Place Seffarine, the historic Medersa and University of al-Qarawiyyin, and the bustling artisan quarter—just to name a few highlights. After a little downtime to recharge, we capped off the day with a fabulous dinner in the Medina, savoring the flavors of Fes. What a feast for the senses!
Leather tanneries, Fes Medina
Place Seffarine, Fes Medina
Qarawiyyin University, Fes Medina
Fondouq Staouniyine, Fes Medina
Zellige artisan workshops, Fes
Nighttime in Fes Medina
Day 4: Fes to the Sahara Desert
Our day began bright and early as we hit the road for a scenic journey toward the Sahara Desert. After reaching our drop-off point at Erg Chebbi, our desert guide whisked us away into the golden dunes, leading us to a breathtakingly beautiful tented camp. We were warmly greeted by a group of young Amazigh hosts (often called Berbers, a term from the Romans meaning “Barbarians,” though their true name, Amazigh, means “free men”). They showed us to our fabulous tents before we set off on a camel ride through the dunes, just in time for a spectacular sunset.
The camp itself was incredible—charmingly decorated with cozy outdoor seating areas and even small trees, an oasis of style and comfort in the heart of the desert. After a delicious dinner, our Amazigh hosts gathered around the campfire and treated us to traditional music under a blanket of stars. It was a night straight out of a dream!
Driving into the Sahara Desert
Our tented camp in the Sahara
Camel ride into the sunset
Sunset in the Sahara - magical!
Moonrise over my tent
Our camp lit up at night
Gathered around the campfire to enjoy traditional Amazigh music
Day 5: From the desert to the High Atlas Mountains
I’m not usually a morning person, but there was no way I was missing the sunrise in the Sahara! Climbing to the top of a dune behind my tent, I soaked in the magical stillness as the first rays of sunlight peeked over the horizon—it was incredible! After a leisurely breakfast, we said goodbye to the desert as our guide drove us back to meet Mustapha and Adil to continue our adventure.
Our first stop was Manar Marble, and wow—it was fascinating! Massive slabs of Moroccan marble, filled with ancient fossils, were being transformed by skilled artisans into stunning tables, fountains, and decorative pieces. It’s like holding history in your hands!
Next, we enjoyed an alfresco lunch en route to the Atlas Mountains before arriving at the jaw-dropping Todra Gorge. This natural oasis, carved by the Todra River over centuries, felt almost otherworldly, with its towering canyon walls reaching over 400 meters—taller than the Empire State Building! We stretched our legs with a scenic walk through the gorge before continuing deeper into the High Atlas.
When we arrived at Eden Boutique Hotel in Dades, I had to pinch myself. Nestled across the valley from the unique "Monkey Fingers" rock formations, this gem of a hotel featured lush terraced gardens, traditional architecture, and views that left me speechless. The charming Ouijdane greeted us with refreshing cold mint tea in the garden before showning us to our rooms, where a little downtime was in order. Dinner in the candlelit restaurant was the perfect ending to the day.
The downside? We only had one night to enjoy here. I’m convinced this is the most beautiful hotel I’ve ever stayed in—anywhere in the world!
Sunrise in the Sahara
Farewell, friends!
A short stop in Erfoud to check out Manar Marble - full of ancient fossils
Walking through the Todra Gorge, High Atlas Mountains, with Moustapha and Amit
Arriving in the garden at Eden Boutique Hotel in Dades Valley
My amazing suite at Eden Boutique Hotel, Dades Gorge
View of Dades Gorge & the Monkey Fingers from my terrace at Eden Boutique Hotel
Twilight at Eden
Candlelit dinner at Eden Restaurant
Day 6: Onward to Marrakech, the Red City
After an early breakfast and farewell to our new friends at Eden Boutique, we got on the road toward Marrakech.
Journeying from the majestic High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech is an unforgettable adventure packed with stunning sights and epic moments. We stopped for lunch and walked to Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a golden, sun-drenched fortress that looks straight out of a movie (and often is—hello, Game of Thrones fans!). Then, we wound our way up to Tizi’n Tichka, the highest mountain pass in North Africa. The switchbacks here are not just thrilling—they’re pure eye candy, offering jaw-dropping views of rugged peaks and valleys. Descending toward Marrakech, the landscape shifts from dramatic mountains to the lively buzz of the Red City. It’s like stepping into a whole new world!
For the next three nights, we settled into the delightful Riad El Hara, our cozy home away from home. The lovely Karima and her amazing team greeted us in the courtyard with a warm Moroccan welcome—think traditional mint tea and melt-in-your-mouth cookies. After that sweet start, we took a little time to unwind and soak in the riad’s serene vibes before sitting down to a delicious dinner right on site. Bliss!
Visiting the 11th c. Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, en route to Marrakech
The view from the top of the Berber fortress
Crossing the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, High Atlas Mountains, between Marrakech and Ouarzazate
Arrival at Riad El Hara, Marrakech
The traditional Moroccan welcome of mint tea and cookies at Riad El Hara
My beautiful green suite at Riad El Hara
My suite’s private terrace
The green-tiled courtyard at Riad El Hara
Rooftop pool and restaurant at Riad El Hara
Day 7: Exploring Marrakech
After a relaxed breakfast at Riad El Hara, we kicked off an action-packed day with our expert guide Moustapha leading us on a tour of the Medina. The itinerary was a highlight reel of Marrakech’s treasures: the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the ornate Saadian Tombs, the tranquil Jardin Secret, and the stunning Dar El Bacha Palace, among others. When lunchtime rolled around, Moustapha pulled off a small miracle, getting us a table at a hotspot where people were lining up for the chance to dine. The meal? A delicious modern twist on traditional Moroccan cuisine—proof that traveling with a savvy guide has its perks!
Even in mid-October, Marrakech was toasty, making it a perfect time to explore. Post-lunch, we wandered deeper into the medina, browsing the souks and spice markets—and yes, indulging in a little retail therapy. We admired gorgeous handmade rugs, swooned over luxurious caftans (at the very shop the Royal Family frequents!), and stocked up on organic argan oil from a local cooperative. A few treasures may have come home with us because… well, when in Marrakech!
That evening, my new friend Amit and I capped off the day at Nobu Rooftop Garden. With music, belly dancers, cocktails, and nonstop fun, it was the perfect way to soak in Marrakech’s vibrant energy.
Wandering through Marrakech Medina
Moustapha leading the way through the Medina
Dar El Bacha Palace
Flowering trees and cacti in the Jardin Secret, Marrakech
Jardin Secret, Marrakech
Shopping for rugs in the Medina
Finding the best caftans in Marrakech
Spices, baskets and more! In Rahba Kedima Square, Marrakech Medina
Dinner and belly dancers at Nobu Rooftop Garden, Marrakech
Day 8: A bird's-eye view of Marrakech
We kicked off the day bright and early with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride just outside Marrakech. Our expert pilot started us off low to the ground, gliding over the landscape, before lifting us above the clouds at the perfect moment—just as the sun peeked over the High Atlas Mountains in the distance. Watching the world wake up from that vantage point was pure magic and something I’d recommend to anyone visiting Marrakech!
After landing, we enjoyed a light breakfast before heading back to the riad for a little downtime. In the afternoon, we joined Moustapha and Adil for a short trip to La Maison Arabe, where we dove into a fun and hands-on tagine cooking class. Our Moroccan instructors were patient, warm, and full of tips. The best part? Tucking into our freshly prepared tagines over dinner and sharing stories with new friends.
Later in the evening, Moustapha whisked us off to experience Jemaa El-Fnaa Square at night—a spectacle not to be missed. As the lights came on, the square buzzed with life: vendors, musicians, and visitors creating a sensory overload in the best way. We ended the night with a stroll to the Koutoubia Mosque, its lights twinkling against the night sky—until a surprise downpour had us dashing back to the riad, which thankfully wasn’t far. Cozy and content, we called it a night!
An early morning start on the outskirts of Marrakech
Floating above the clouds over Bourrous
Watching the sun rise behind the Atlas Mountains
Moroccan Tagine cooking class
Dinner at La Maison Arabe
Jemaa El Fnaa Square, Marrakech
Twilight at Jemaa El Fna Square
Storm clouds behind Koutoubia Mosque
Nighttime at Riad El Hara
Day 9: Discovering a new gem in Marrakech
After a peaceful breakfast at Riad El Hara, I headed to Riad Andalla for my final day and night in Marrakech. Why the switch? I wanted to check out another riad in a different part of the city—always good to have more great spots to recommend!
Riad Andalla was stunning: spacious, bright, and full of charm. I treated myself to a delicious lunch in the courtyard, followed by a relaxing massage at their spa—a perfect way to wind down after a busy week. I’d planned to meet a friend for dinner in the Medina, but a surprise downpour had other ideas. Instead, I cozied up at the riad with a glass of wine and enjoyed a quiet evening. After eight whirlwind days of travel, a little R&R was exactly what I needed!
Courtyard restaurant at Riad Andalla, Marrakech
Riad Andalla rooftop
Final night in Marrakech
Day 10: Farewell, Marrakech!
The Marrakech airport is truly one of a kind! Its striking design features a dramatic cantilevered canopy that shields the terminal from the intense Moroccan sun, while clever openings in the structure allow natural light to filter through beautifully intricate arabesque screens. The result? A space that feels modern yet deeply rooted in Moroccan culture—a perfect reflection of its surroundings.
If you’re flying out of Marrakech, make sure to arrive extra early. The airport is bustling, and the security lines can be quite long. As I waited, a mix of exhaustion and bittersweet feelings hit me. This trip had been nothing short of amazing—from the gorgeous hotels to the stunning landscapes and the incredibly warm and welcoming people of Morocco. Leaving was hard, but one thing’s for sure: I’ll definitely be back!
Mae alsalama, Marrakech!
The dramatic entrance to Marrakech Menara Airport
Marrakech Menara Airport signage in Arabic and Tifinagh, the Tamazight language of Morocco and other North African countries
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