- Repeat visitors
- Slow travelers
- Custom-route planning
Morocco’s highlights — Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen and the Sahara — deserve their fame. Yet some of the country’s most rewarding experiences lie off the main tourist trail. Travel writer Rasa from Blondie in Morocco shares lesser‑known places discovered after years of exploring the kingdom. This article draws on her recommendations to help you plan a trip filled with surprises.
Moulay Bousselham Lagoon
On the Atlantic coast in Kénitra Province, Moulay Bousselham is a small resort town built around a protected wetland called Merja Zerga. The lagoon is home to more than 100 bird species including flamingos, grey herons and marsh owls. Birdwatching tours leave from the port; you can ask local fishermen to take you out by boat. After your excursion, head to the fish market, pick your seafood and have it grilled on the spot. It’s a perfect lunch stop between Tangier and Rabat.
Sidi M’Barek Waterfalls
Just 15 minutes south of Essaouira, the Sidi M’Barek waterfalls cascade into giant sand dunes that spill down to the ocean. The 30‑minute walk to the falls is unmarked; ask locals for directions or hire a guide. Bring a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring dunes that evoke the Sahara without the long drive. This lush oasis is one of the easiest hidden gems to add to a coastal itinerary.
Lalla Takerkoust Lake
Less than an hour from Marrakech lies Lalla Takerkoust, a human‑made lake created in 1929 to provide electricity to the city. Today it’s a favorite escape for locals seeking relief from the summer heat. You can swim, rent jet skis or paddleboats, or simply relax at one of the lakeside restaurants. Combine this with a visit to the Agafay desert or the High Atlas for a varied day trip.
Bhalil Cave Dwellings
Thirty kilometres south of Fes near Sefrou lies the village of Bhalil, famous for its colourful houses and cave dwellings carved into the hillside. According to Rasa, some families still inhabit these caves. Modernization is pushing residents to leave, but a few cave homes are open to visitors; hire a local guide to show you inside. The experience offers a rare glimpse into traditional Berber architecture and a way of life that is disappearing.
Plage de Maresdar
Hidden along the northern coast near the fishing town of El Jebha, Plage de Maresdar looks like a slice of Indonesia. This secluded beach carved into the rock can only be reached by boat from town. The boat ride costs around 100 dirhams. Once you arrive, you’ll find clear blue water, dramatic cliffs and very few people. Bring snacks and water, as there are no facilities.
Moulay Idriss & Volubilis
Often visited only as a stop on the way to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, Moulay Idriss deserves more time. Until 2005 non‑Muslims were not allowed to stay overnight; today you can sleep in guesthouses and wander its steep, donkey‑filled streets. The town sits on a hill surrounded by green terraces and has a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Combine it with a guided tour of nearby Volubilis for a memorable day.
Iminifri Natural Bridge
Located about 70 km from the Ouzoud waterfalls, Iminifri is a massive natural bridge carved by water. Rasa describes it as a stone structure over 20 m high with formations that locals say resemble the shape of Africa. The hike to and through the bridge is short but requires sturdy shoes. After exploring, stop at a nearby restaurant for rabbit tagine — a local specialty.
Tinmel Mosque
Approximately 100 km from Marrakech on the road to Tizi n’Test, the Tinmel Mosque dates to 1156 and is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non‑Muslims. It no longer functions as a place of worship, but visitors can wander its hushed interior, admire Almohad architecture and hire a guide for a short history lesson.
Skoura Oasis
Many Sahara-bound travellers stop at Tinghir or Aït Benhaddou, but Skoura — 40 km from Ouarzazate — offers a tranquil alternative. This palm‑grove oasis covers roughly 50 km² and hides villages, olive and almond trees. You can stay in a small hotel amid the palms, take a guided tour of the oasis and visit the Kasbah Amridil, a 17th‑century fortress depicted on the 50 dirham banknote.
Bin el Ouidane Lake
About an hour from the Ouzoud waterfalls in Azilal Province, Bin el Ouidane is a turquoise reservoir set against mountains. While Rasa’s article doesn’t detail activities here, the lake is popular for boating, fishing and day trips. Combine it with nearby Iminifri for a nature‑filled circuit.
Visiting Hidden Gems with Ease
Reaching these places often requires a car and local knowledge. Public transport rarely stops near them, and signage can be minimal. Hiring a private driver not only eliminates navigation stress but also provides cultural context. Companies like AeroRoute can build detours into your main route so you don’t miss the Morocco few tourists see.