No matter your photographic discipline, Morocco offers enough diversity to captivate any photographer. From bustling souks to vast desert plains, it’s quite astonishing how varied the landscapes and scenes are in what is just one country. With plenty of transport options and tour operators ready to show off the best of the land, it’s also pretty effortless to travel from coast to mountain, and village to desert. Discover our favourite locations below that you’ll want to capture on your travels.
Marrakech’s Medina
Starting with the easiest to tick off, head for Marrakech’s famous Medina and get lost in the timelesness of the place. Immerse yourself in the labyrinthine streets and alleyways, dodging donkey carts and the bustle of the souks. It’s a street photographer’s paradise, though be aware that it can be expected to offer your subject a little money in exchange for a photograph. Explore the unique light of the souks and covered walkways, or make for the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna – great shots hide behind every corner.
Assif Imnane Valley
Head for the mountains and discover the Amazigh culture that shelters amongst the plains and steep slopes. A guide is highly recommended, providing access to this traditional way of life. Imlil is a fascinating town, offering a starting point for treks up to Tizi n’ Tamatert. The towns are unique and the mountains steep, making for fascinating shots that require real effort to attain.
Chefchaouen
The blue pearl is not new to being photographed; you can almost see it posing for you, a quite resplendent mountainside town peppered blue and in a word, quite beguiling. Under the shoulders of the Rif mountains, the historic medina has all the trappings of classic Moroccan beauty. Only here there’s that brilliant blue at every turn. Head for the now-restored casbah for the best views over the medina.
Zaouiat Ahansal
Deep in the High Atlas lies the Ahansal Valley. It’s remote, with an untouched quality to the place. Along the valley are four villages, founded by an Islamic saint whose burial nearby is a pilgrimage site. The villages are packed with historic buildings, many lovingly restored by the Atlas cultural Foundation. With a backdrop of mountains, exploring each is a rare treat that, for those that like a little adventure, shouldn’t be missed.
Essaouria
Africa’s windy city, the hippy fishing town that once attracted Cat Stevens, Frank Zappa, Hendrix and more, is – owing to its industry – a vibrant and down-to-earth type of place. If you’re looking to capture authentic Moroccan life, be it in the markets or at the harbourside, the alleyways or the cafes, it certainly gets very real in Essaouria.
Erg Chebbi
Erg Chebbi perfectly evokes the unique qualities of the Sahara. Valleys, mountains and ripples of sand dunes are strewn all around, the odd camel crosses the frame, and the golden hour light does something utterly captivating here. Though it feels wild and adventorous, it is surprisingly easy to reach. Top tip? Bring some cup lids to place under your tripod feet to stop the apparatus sinking into the sand.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
A popular trip from Marrakech, this lush landscape offers all the drama you could want from a seemingly wild oasis. The waterfalls are breathtaking and full of dynamism. Nearby is a friendly Amazigh village, perfect for a lunch stop and waiting for most visitors to leave so you can snap some sunset shots of the falls.
