One of the hottest destinations this year is Morocco.
And we're not surprised. It's perfect for seasoned travelers who are ready to try something a little more exotic without a 15 hour flight. It's got something for everyone: culture, design, adventure and a little bit of spice.
Whether you’re heading to Marrakech for a design-fueled long weekend or trekking into the Sahara for a full-scale desert production, navigating this landscape is an art form. We’ve filtered out the noise to bring you the "Tastemaker’s" guide to the country, from the best time to visit in 2026 (pro tip: mind the Ramadan calendar) to finding the specific Moroccan corner that matches your travel style.
But first, some basics:
How long to visit
If you're only going to Marrakech, we can plan a quick three- or four-day trip. If you're visiting multiple spots, 10 days might be the sweet spot.
When to visit
Morocco is a year-round destination, but most travelers avoid the summer due to the high temperatures. January and the fall months offer milder weather with fewer crowds.
Ramadan: Though visiting Morocco during Ramadan (February 17, 2026 through March 19, 2026) can be culturally rich, it’s best to avoid this time, especially on your first trip, for a few reasons:
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Many restaurants are closed or have limited menus. Alcohol is generally unavailable during the day and may be restricted even in the evenings. Plus, visitors are expected to be respectful by avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day.
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Shops and museums have restricted hours or are closed completely. Service can feel slower as locals are fasting, which may impact tours and logistics.
Where to go in Morocco based on your travel style
Marrakech
Traveler type: The Tastemaker
Who: Design lovers, foodies, and art enthusiasts
Also good for: First-time Morocco visitors
The vibrant cultural heart of the country, Marrakech is always buzzing with new galleries, concept stores, and chef-led culinary experiences. If you crave creative energy and love being immersed in a destination—wandering medinas, discovering artisan workshops, sipping mint tea on a riad rooftop, and ending the day with a design-forward dinner or cocktail scene—Marrakech is for you.
Fez
Traveler type: The Cultural Purist
Who: History lovers, intellectually curious travelers, culture-first explorers
Also good for: Deeper dive, second-time Morocco visitors or those pairing with Marrakech
Fez is Morocco at its most traditional. Steeped in history and home to one of the world’s oldest universities and a UNESCO-listed medina, it’s ideal for travelers who want to step back in time. Imagine a labyrinth of alleyways, artisan tanneries, and layers of history that remain largely unchanged.
Essaouira
Traveler type: The Laid-Back Creative
Who: Honeymooners, solo travelers, surfers, wellness-minded travelers
Also good for: Windsurfers and kitesurfers
Essaouira is the relaxed, bohemian contrast to Marrakech and Casablanca. Known for its breezy beaches, fresh seafood scene, and artistic spirit, budget time here if you want wellness, surf, and slower-paced Moroccan charm.
Atlas Mountains
Traveler type: The Nature-Forward Cultural Traveler
Who: Couples, wellness travelers, active explorers
Also good for: A day trip and quick dose of nature and serenity
If you’re a mountain-over-beach person, crave fresh air, and love wide-open landscapes, the Atlas Mountains are just a short drive from Marrakech (doable in a day!) and offer both hiking and local village visits.
The Sahara
Traveler type: The Bucket-List Checker
Who: Adventure travelers, couples
Also good for: Photographers
If you want awe-inspiring experiences and are willing to work for it, we won’t skip the Sahara. Reached via a multi-day journey or flight-and-drive combination, the Sahara rewards intrepid travelers with luxury tented camps, incredible sand dunes (think camel treks, 4x4 outings, and sunset rituals), and dining under more stars than you can count. It’s dramatic and unforgettable.
Agafay Desert
Traveler type: The Luxury Minimalist
Who: Couples, honeymooners, short-stay travelers
Also good for: A first desert experience without long transfers
Agafay delivers the magic of the desert just outside of Marrakech. The desert here is a rocky landscape vs. the Sahara’s seemingly endless dunes. That said, you can still enjoy sunset camel rides, al fresco dinners under the stars, and quiet mornings with stellar views.
Casablanca
Traveler type: The Urban Connector
Who: Short-stay travelers, business travelers, architecture enthusiasts
Also good for: Quick stop as an entry or exit point for larger Morocco itineraries
Casablanca is Morocco’s modern metropolis and primary international gateway. It only warrants a brief visit, but if you do carve out the time, don’t miss the iconic Hassan II Mosque set over the Atlantic.
If not Morocco
If Morocco isn’t on your list, consider Oman. Often called the land of 1000 forts, Oman is the perfect alternative if you’ve already done Morocco or if you want something similar, but even more off the beaten path. An itinerary of Muscat, Nizwa, and the Wahiba Sands will give you lively souks, historical architecture, dramatic wadis, breathtaking coastline and a beautiful desert camp experience.
And for adventure lovers, Six Senses Zighy Bay on the Musandam Peninsula is famous for its dramatic mountain setting into which hotel guests can arrive via paraglider.
Or maybe Spain is more your speed. From the historic streets of Córdoba to the sun-soaked shores of Marbella and the medieval charm of Toledo, this trio captures Spain at its most captivating and Morocco-esque. Wander through centuries-old architecture, savor long meals rooted in tradition, and balance cultural immersion with coastal ease.
We're ready when you are
Morocco is a destination that stays with you long after the red dust has settled. But the difference between a good trip and a transformative one is in the details—the riad with the quietest courtyard, the driver who knows the best hidden viewpoint in the Atlas Mountains, and the timing that avoids the crowds.
If you’re ready to move past the moodboard and into the planning phase for your 2026 escape, we have your travel plans covered.
Inquire here for your custom Morocco itinerary
