Visiting Morocco for the first time last year was something of an eye opener. See, Lloyd had always wanted to visit but I wasn’t fully sold. Eventually, I caved in and we grabbed a couple of friends and headed over to Morocco somewhere between assignments and piles of coursework I had back at Cambridge University.

We headed straight for Marrakech which was positively brimming with activity and I fell in love with the city almost immediately! It was filled with so many exciting sights, sounds and smells which can initially seem quite intense but once you get into the swing of things becomes an exciting frenzy of activities. We then stepped away from the hustle and bustle and got to see more of the countryside which was calm, laid back and absolutely stunning. This sharp contrast absolutely sealed the deal for me and made me want to see even more of this amazing country.

If you’ve been before, you’ll know what I’m talking about but if you haven’t, here are 8 fantastic experiences you need to have in Morocco!

1.) Discover Moroccan history in its glorious cities

Moroccan cities are defined by the hive of activity and the colourfulness on offer. A trip to a Moroccan city is a perfect opportunity to dive into the rich and colourful history of Morocco. Marrakesh, Fes, Rabat or Casablanca already create images of 1,001 nights (for the uninitiated, this is what Aladin, Ali Baba, Sinbad et all all originate from – see more details here), busy Medinas and gorgeous architecture!

2.) Relax on the beaches at the Atlantic coast

Morocco is famous for its picture-perfect beaches and surf spots. No matter if you head towards Agadir, Tangier or Taghazout – the right spot under the sun is waiting just for you. I mean, tell me you’re not tempted by those stunning natural beauties above!

3.) Feel the country’s hidden heartbeat in the desert

It would be a sin to leave out the Sahara while being in Morocco. Book an overnight trip and stay in a traditional Berber tent. You will fall in love with the desert while trying to count the millions of stars in the night sky. This is also a perfect opportunity to try your hands on some night time photography if you’re so inclined. In any case, this will definitely be one of those amazing experiences you’ll be talking about for quite some time to come.

4.) Pack your trekking boots and head for the mountains

If you can, do make sure you put hiking on your Morocco itinerary. Head South for at least a few days and discover the wild Atlas Mountains. Alternatively, the Rif Mountains in the North also make for a perfect outdoor getaway.

If you’re not much of a hiker though (like me) you could always get a tour to take you to the mountains – you might even get the chance to visit a Berber family on the trip.

5.) Get the living daylight beaten out of you in a traditional hammam

Haha! Not really! These old public baths used to be the source of personal hygiene in the past but these days, locals as well as foreigners enjoy the hot steam baths and some truly ‘vigourous’ massages that will leave you so relaxed you won’t be able to walk straight after you’re finished.

6.) Send your taste buds crazy with Moroccan cuisine

One word: Tagine. That is all.

Okay, that’s not all.How could it be? We’re talking about food here and the tagines in Morocco are absolutely amazing! They’re chock-filled with vegetables too and my personal recommendation when you get here is to try a lamb tagine. You’ll thank me later for that one.

7.) Broaden your horizon in an Islamic country

You go to Asia to see the temples, to Europe to see the churches, when it comes to mosques and the amazing arabesque architecture that comes with it, Morocco has this in oodles.You wouldn’t head over to Cambodia without popping into a temple or to Paris and not see at least the Notre Dame or Sacre Coeur so when in Morocco, take some time to visit a mosque. (Like anywhere else in the world, remember to be respectful and pay heed to the rules of conduct when in religious sites).

8.) Shop for almost everything under the sun in the souks

You will be happy to hear that all the amazing things Morocco has to offer come at a very reasonable price and for those that don’t, you can haggle till you get to an amazing price! It’s been an ideal travel bargain hunter’s for so long now with no signs of slowing down!