Raise your hand if you’ve ever been tempted to visit a destination solely by someone’s Instagram photos.
Okay, maybe I haven’t booked a flight just because of a picture, but I can’t deny the lure of stunning travel shots shared by friends and travel influencers. Often, the reality doesn’t quite live up to the hype – colors muted, angels deceptive – but Morocco? Morocco is the real deal.
This country exceeded every expectation I had. Its colors, textures, and landscapes don’t just match the photos – they surpass them. You can talk endlessly about the vibrancy of Morocco, but nothing captures its magic quite like a photo.
My trip to Morocco was my first time in Africa, and I fell head over heels for this incredible country. Even my photos don’t do it full justice, but they helped me share my experience with friends and family in a way words alone couldn’t.
Here are the 10 most photogenic, Instagram-worthy sports you can’t miss when visiting Morocco.
The Sahara Desert
I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that I spent a night in the Sahara Desert. It’s an otherworldly experience – watching the sun dip below the horizon while seated on a camel, surrounded by endless orange sand dunes.
The pinks, purples, and golds of the desert skies create a surreal background, making sunset shots here absolutely unforgettable.
The Royal Palace (Fes)
The Royal Palace in Fes, an unofficial residence of Morocco’s royal family, was one of my favorite spots for a photo. While you can’t tour the palace, the intricate and vibrant entrance gates are a feast for the eyes (and your camera).
Pro tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and capture the grandeur without distractions.
Traditional Riads
Riads are traditional Moroccan homes built around courtyards, and they’re like stepping into a dream. These hidden oases of tranquility are just steps away from the bustling city streets, yet they feel worlds apart.
Riad Yasmine, for example, is an Instagram icon, with its intricately designed tile-work, lush greenery, and plunge pool creating the perfect setting for a quintessential Moroccan snapshot.
Souks in the Medina
Wandering through the souks in Fes or Marrakech is a sensory overload in the best way possible. The colors, intricate crafts, and aromatic spices make these markets a photographer’s paradise.
Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and capture stalls under the soft, natural morning light.
Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Ben Haddou is a mesmerizing clay village that looks like it’s straight out of a movie – literally. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has served as a background for Game of Thrones and Gladiator.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light, when the sun casts a golden glow on the mud brick facades.
The Blue City (Chefchaouen)
Chefchaouen is undeniably one of the most Instagrammable places in Morocco. The city’s iconic blue streets, doors, and walls create a magical selling that doesn’t feel real.
Pro tip: Head out early for the best photos, when the light is softer and the streets are empty. Choose outfits in colors that will complement the striking blue background like yellows, oranges, or whites.
Cape Spartel
Cape Spartel marks the dramatic meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea at the Strait of Gibraltar. Its rugged coastedline, historic lighthouse, and nearby Cave of Hercules make it a must-visit spot for photos.
Alleys in Tangier
Tangier’s alleys are an underappreciated gem. The narrow streets are lined with beautiful, often brightly painted walls and doorways that are practically begging to be photographed.
Each turn reveals something new, from intricate tilework to hanging lanterns. Tangier’s charm lies in these quiet, hidden corners—perfect for candid, intimate shots.
La Mamounia (Marrakech)
La Mamounia is the crown jewel of luxury hotels in Marrakech, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most photographed hotels on Instagram. Its magnificent gardens, opulent interiors, and rich history make it a dream setting for the perfect shot. The hotel owes its popularity to its beauty as much as it does to its famous clientele (Khloe Kardashian, Anna Delvey, and Paul McCartney, to name a few).
You don’t have to stay overnight to soak it in – stop by for lunch, a spa treatment, or simply to explore the grounds (and, of course, snap a few photos).
Doors
If I could sum up my Morocco trip in one word, it would be: doors.
Morocco’s doors are more than just functional—they’re works of art. Painted in vibrant hues or adorned with intricate carvings and brass details, they’re scattered across the country like hidden treasures.
Take your time to admire and photograph these stunning entryways as you explore cities like Marrakech, Chefchaouen, and Fes. Each one tells its own story and adds a unique charm to your photo collection.
Important Things to Know / Consider
- Respect Local Customs: Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in more sacred settings like mosques.
- Photography Restrictions: Some buildings or military sites may prohibit photography. Check locally or with a guide to avoid issues.
- Fees and Permits: Certain cultural sites may charge a small fee for photography or restrict tripods. Public spaces typically don’t require permits for personal photos.
- Dress Modestly: When visiting religious or rural areas, women should cover their shoulders and knees to respect local customs.
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