Central Morocco is a land of endless wonder. It’s characterized by russet dunes, lush palm oases, and snow-capped peaks—plus colorful souks, film-set kasbahs, and maze-like medinas that mix Arab, Berber, and Jewish cultures. Anchored by Marrakech to the west and the Sahara Desert to the east, this swath of North Africa has something for everyone. Top things to do in central Morocco include flying over the desert in a hot-air balloon, adventuring into the Atlas Mountains, and exploring the palaces, hidden gardens, and raucous markets of Marrakech.
Temperatures soar across central Morocco in the summer months (May through September), when the cities and towns are stifling and the desert simply dangerous. The milder months of spring and fall are the most popular, with balmy days and cool nights, but Morocco is a year-round destination. There are mild temperatures even in winter, though the nights get chilly. Keep in mind that most Moroccans fast during Ramadan in the early spring, so be respectful when grabbing a bite out and about.
Public transport in central Morocco is sparse and unreliable, dominated by a network of “petit taxis” (shared taxis for short trips) and “grand taxis” (shared taxis for trips between towns or villages). There is no train service in much of the region nor domestic flights. Though you can get around by rental car, poor signage and weak GPS signal make navigating on your own a challenge. The best option is a private car service with an experienced local driver.
For a truly Moroccan experience that will leave you relaxed and squeaky clean, visit one of the many hammams (bath houses) scattered across Marrakech and central Morocco. Choose between a straightforward public hammam or a more luxurious private one; both offer steam rooms, a spot to wash down with olive oil-based black soap and exfoliate with a kessa (scrubbing glove), and a relaxation area to massage in some argan oil and unwind.
