Morocco has always promised sunshine, souks and a splash of adventure. But the real magic? That lies in the little moments and people that bring them to life.
From baking bread in the blue city of Chefchaouen to bartering in Fez medina, these five Morocco experiences are all about community, not just sightseeing. Led by the best local guides in the business, we take you beyond the bustle – into Morocco’s magic.
1. Mingle with Marrakech in Djemaa el Fna
Djemaa el Fna is Marrakech turbocharged, a meeting point for the city, a whirring, noisy, chaotic square with stalls at every turn and street performers putting on their best show. Yes, it can be touristy. But, if you know where to go, where to look, and who to speak to (and your Exodus tour leader does), it becomes a magnificent showcase of local culture and cuisines. Though it’s hardly quiet during the day, it truly comes to life when the sun sets, and the city gathers to eat together – the perfect opportunity to rub shoulders with the local people and eat the local food.
Adventure to book
Experience Djemaa el Fna for yourself on our Highlights of Morocco adventure. Fresh from an invigorating stay in the relaxed seaside town of Essaouira, you head to Marrakech, where your expert tour leader takes you around the opulent Bahia Palace before finishing the tour in the square itself.
You then have free time to explore solo, perhaps navigating the bustling souks, which start at Djemaa el Fna, with a chance to utilise those bartering techniques taught to you by your tour leader. On the final evening of the adventure, the group usually returns to the square for a traditional Moroccan meal, a special experience to end your time in Morocco.
2. Barter in the ancient medina of Fez
Fez medina isn’t just old – it’s the oldest in Morocco. Wandering its maze of 9,000 alleys feels like stepping into another century. One moment you’re passing a stall stacked with pyramids of spices, the next you’re ducking through a tiled archway into a 14th-century madrasa.
Dating to the ninth century, the medina ranks as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world and is now a World Heritage site. Unlike the medinas of Marrakech or Rabat, which have modernised in places, Fez feels suspended in time. It’s entirely car-free, so goods are still carted in by donkey, and you’ll pass families of artisans working in the same stalls their ancestors did.
Scented with cumin and cedarwood, the medina is a riot of shops selling mosaic tiles, beautifully crafted leather goods, and ornate lamps. It’s colour, sight and sound everywhere you look. On your own, it’s overwhelming. But, our expert local guides will show you the treasures you wouldn’t have found on your own.
Adventure to book
On our Treasures of Morocco – Premium Adventure, you travel to Fez after stopping at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the hilltop town of Moulay Idriss. You’ll check into a peaceful riad – a quiet oasis from the bustle of the medina right outside – before joining your group for a welcome dinner.
The following day, your local guide leads a walking tour of the medina’s key districts, from the brassworkers to the tanners, the spice markets to the tiled madrasas. Along the way, learn how to barter like a local, where to find the best bissara (fava bean soup), and how to move confidently through the bustle without missing the beauty.
3. Bake bread in the blue beauty of Chefchaouen
If you don’t recognise the name, you will have seen the photos. Tucked into the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is the famous blue city of Morocco.
Founded in the 15th century as a fortress to resist Portuguese expansion, the town later became a refuge for Muslim and Jewish communities. It’s believed they introduced the tradition of painting buildings blue. Some say the colour symbolises the sky and heaven; others claim it helps keep mosquitoes away. Whatever the reason, the effect is pure magic.
But to really understand Chefchaouen, you should head to Café Clock to learn how to bake traditional Moroccan breads and patisseries. Led by a local expert, the experience provides a deep understanding of the city’s culinary traditions, while also introducing you to the people who make it great. The chance to support their vital work in the community is the icing on the cake.
Adventure to book
On our Discover North Morocco & Chefchaouen trip, your tour leader takes you to Café Clock, where you hone your baking skills and learn how they help young staff to improve their English, while also hosting storytelling evenings to preserve Morocco’s oral traditions.
You’ll stop first at the ferran – the communal oven still used daily by local families – before learning how to knead, shape and bake loaves using old methods passed through the generations by flour-dusted hands.
Then comes the best part – sharing warm bread fresh from the oven, with homemade jam, fresh butter, olive oil and mint tea.
4. Sleep under the Sahara stars
It’s not every day you get to sleep beneath a desert sky. So, for a truly unforgettable Morocco experience, spend the night at an Amazigh camp in the Sahara, allowing you to experience both the still of the desert and traditional culture.
As your host prepares dinner, gather round the campfire with your group, sharing the calm and gazing over the dunes. After your meal, keep your eyes to the sky, watching as shooting stars race across… you might even be treated to traditional music as you do it.
Adventure to book
On our Marrakech & the Sahara itinerary, you’ll travel through the Ziz Valley to the edge of the desert. From Merzouga, a one-hour camel trek takes you deep into the dunes of Erg Chebbi, ending at your camp.
Settle in for a night under the desert sky. Enjoy a traditional dinner with your group, and watch the stars emerge in total desert silence.
The next morning, walk up a nearby dune to catch sunrise across the sands – a moment of pure desert stillness.
5. Walk off the map in Tijhza
Tucked deep in the High Atlas, the village of Tijhza offers an authentic insight into Amazigh mountain life.
We’ve been coming here for years, and the welcome never fades. Your guide might point out wild thyme growing along the trail or stop to share a story about the families who live nearby.
When you’re there, make sure to visit the village hammam – a simple, communal bathhouse built with money raised by Exodus travellers.
It’s where trail dust is scrubbed away and stories are shared. A glimpse of everyday Morocco, rarely on show.
Adventure to book
On our Hike Morocco’s Atlas Mountains trip, you arrive in Tijhza the traditional way – on foot. After a winding drive across the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, you’ll lunch with a family in the village of Anmiter. From there, a 1hr 30min walk leads you through orchards, walnut groves and farming hamlets – along quiet footpaths only locals use. Your luggage is transported ahead to Tijhza, leaving you free to soak it all in. Enjoy the night in a riad, with the village sounds lulling you to sleep.
Want to discover more Morocco experiences? Explore all our Morocco holidays.
