10 Fun Facts About Morocco

1. Morocco has both the Sahara AND snowy mountains.

The Atlas Mountains stretch across the country, and some peaks receive significant snowfall in winter. You can literally go from desert landscapes to snow-covered mountains in the same country.

2. Morocco has a city famous for being blue.

Chefchaouen, tucked into the Rif Mountains, is known for its striking blue-painted streets and buildings. There are several theories about why the city became blue, including religious symbolism, tradition, and practical explanations, but the exact origin isn't agreed upon.

3. Morocco is home to one of the world's oldest universities.

Al-Qarawiyyin, in Fez, was founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri. It is widely recognized as one of the world's oldest continuously operating institutions of higher learning. It is also a stunning site to see.

4. You can ski in Morocco.

Yes! I said ski! Oukaïmeden, in the High Atlas Mountains, is Morocco's best-known ski area. Depending on conditions, you can potentially ski within a few hours of Marrakech. I don't know if they offer hot chocolate at the end, but I guarantee there is tea.

5. Morocco has an Atlantic and a Mediterranean coastline.

Morocco isn't just a desert. It has a long Atlantic coastline and a Mediterranean coast in the north, which means beaches, fishing towns, surfing, seafood, and coastal villages are all part of Moroccan life.

6. Morocco has its own unique tea ritual.

Moroccan mint tea isn't simply a drink, it's an important part of hospitality. Traditionally made with green tea, fresh mint, and plenty of sugar, it's often poured dramatically from a height to create a little foam. If you have not had the pleasure of being treated to a Moroccan tea, it is something to look forward to. It takes practice to make it look that easy.

7. Morocco has goats that climb trees. 🐐🌳

You've probably seen those incredible photos of goats sitting in argan trees. The goats really do climb them to eat the fruit. And those argan trees produce the famous argan oil, a Moroccan staple used in food and cosmetics. Argan oil is now a staple in my beauty routine. Fun fact: you can even eat argan, and it has amazing health benefits.

8. Morocco has an ancient underground water system.

Traditional khettaras are underground channels designed to transport groundwater, particularly in arid regions. Some systems are centuries old and demonstrate how communities adapted to life in a dry climate long before modern infrastructure.

9. Morocco's medinas can feel like another world.

Fez is home to one of the world's largest car-free urban areas. Inside the medina, narrow winding streets lead to souks, workshops, mosques, bakeries, homes, and hidden courtyards. Getting wonderfully lost is practically part of the experience. Essaouira's souk is a calm, leisurely maze of handcrafted items. If you are up for true adventure and an experience, the souk of Marrakech is a world and experience all its own. You can go with or without a guide; this is an especially fun place for those who like to make a deal.

10. Morocco is incredibly diverse for its size.

In one trip you can experience ancient medinas, Atlantic beaches, Mediterranean towns, High Atlas villages, palm-filled oases, the Sahara, Amazigh culture, Arab traditions, and dozens of regional food and cultural traditions. That is why we have created this business: what is important for you to see. We can help you streamline and get the most out of your trip.

Every journey to Morocco is different, beautiful and expands your views. Have a look at the places we build trips around, and when you are ready, tell us what you would like to see.