Escape the crowds and discover the authentic Morocco — from cave homes to ancient libraries. These underrated destinations in Morocco offer culture, adventure and a lot fewer tourists.
When most people think of Morocco, names like Marrakech, Fès or the Sahara instantly come to mind. And while these places are undeniably stunning, there’s a whole other side to the country that often gets overlooked — one you can truly discover through immersive Morocco desert tours, revealing untouched landscapes, ancient culture and authentic experiences waiting quietly in the shadows.
Let’s go beyond the Instagram hotspots and dive deep into seven underrated places in Morocco that are absolutely worth your time. Ready to wander off the beaten path?
“The real Morocco isn’t always in the tour book, but it’s waiting for you just the same.”
1. El Jadida: A Coastal Fortress of Portuguese Legacy
Overview and History
Nestled along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, El Jadida is a unique fusion of Moroccan soul and Portuguese history. Once known as Mazagan, this port city was fortified by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
What to See and Do
The Portuguese Cistern: A hauntingly beautiful underground chamber, known for its perfectly symmetrical arches and eerie reflection pools
City Walls: Walk along the historic ramparts and enjoy sweeping ocean views
Plage El Haouzia: A quieter alternative to the country’s more commercial beaches
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early autumn are ideal — pleasant weather, fewer tourists and beautiful ocean breezes.
2. Tafraoute: The Heart of the Anti-Atlas
Cultural and Natural Highlights
Located in a valley surrounded by pink granite mountains, Tafraoute is an oasis of tranquility. The village is famous for its peculiar rock formations and rich Berber culture.
Painted Rocks: Belgian artist Jean Vérame transformed local boulders into surreal artworks using vibrant colors
Traditional Berber Villages: Get a true taste of Moroccan hospitality with a home-stay experience
Trekking and Biking Opportunities
Tafraoute is also a hidden gem for trekkers and cyclists, with trails snaking through palm groves, narrow canyons and desert plateaus.
3. Sidi Ifni: Spanish Legacy by the Sea
Spanish-Moorish Architecture
Sidi Ifni is a sleepy coastal town with a distinct vibe — a relic of Spanish colonization, it feels like stepping into another time. The Art Deco buildings and Spanish signage still linger.
Legzira Beach and Rock Formations
Just six miles (10 kilometers) north, you’ll find Legzira Beach with its natural red sandstone arches that glow in the evening sun. It’s a dramatic, cinematic slice of Morocco most travelers skip.
4. Akchour: A Waterfall Wonderland
Hiking Trails and Natural Pools
If you’re staying in Chefchaouen, Akchour is just a short drive away. It’s an emerald paradise where you’ll find hiking trails, freshwater pools and waterfalls that look like scenes out of a fairy tale.
The Bridge of God
One of the trail’s biggest highlights is the Pont de Dieu — a natural stone arch suspended over a canyon. Nature’s version of the Eiffel Tower, minus the crowds.
5. Ouzoud: Beyond the Waterfalls
Wild Barbary Apes
While Ouzoud’s 360-foot (110-meter) waterfall steals the show, the surrounding forest is home to playful Barbary macaques, often seen swinging through olive trees.
Hidden Hikes and Local Life
Venture off the main path and you’ll discover tiny villages, hidden viewpoints and family-run tajine spots where the flavors are as rich as the views.
6. Tamegroute: Morocco’s Ancient Library and Pottery Town
The Hidden Koranic Library
Tamegroute is one of Morocco’s best-kept secrets. This tiny village near Zagora houses an ancient Quranic library with manuscripts dating back to the 11th century.
Unique Green Pottery
What makes this village even more special is its distinct green-glazed pottery, fired in traditional clay ovens. It’s imperfect, earthy and completely charming.
7. Bhalil: The Cave House Village
Stay in Berber Caves
Just outside Fès lies Bhalil — a small village where many homes are literally carved into the hillside caves. Unlike modern cave hotels, these are still lived in by Berber families.
Authenticity at Its Peak
You’ll be welcomed with tea, homemade bread and big smiles. No entry tickets, no waiting lines — just real life unfolding in front of your eyes.
Tips for Discovering Morocco’s Hidden Treasures
Hire local guides.
Many of these places are off-grid. Hiring a local guide not only supports the community but also helps you uncover stories and places you’d otherwise miss.
Travel in the off-season.
Skip the high seasons and travel during shoulder months (March to May or September to November). You’ll dodge the crowds and often score better deals on accommodations.
Learn a few Darija phrases.
Even basic words like shukran (thank you) or salaam (hello) go a long way in rural areas. Locals will appreciate the effort, and you’ll likely get warmer treatment.
Why You Should Skip the Crowds and Go Off the Beaten Path
Sometimes, the most profound travel moments happen away from the obvious. Whether it’s sipping mint tea in a cave house, stumbling upon ancient manuscripts, or watching the sun dip behind a sandstone arch — these lesser-known gems will give you stories no guidebook can.
Want to dive deeper into planning your adventure? Check out this Morocco tour guide for expert tips, must-see destinations and everything you need to know before you go.
Morocco is a land of contrast — mountains, deserts, beaches, cities and silence. If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys meaningful, raw and less commercialized experiences, these seven hidden gems will win your heart. So, step off the tourist trail and let Morocco surprise you in the most unexpected ways.
FAQs
1. What is the safest hidden gem in Morocco to visit solo?
Tafraoute is ideal for solo travelers. It’s calm and friendly, and the locals are extremely welcoming.
2. How do I get to Akchour from Chefchaouen?
Shared taxis or private transport from Chefchaouen will get you to Akchour in under an hour.
3. Is it expensive to visit these underrated places in Morocco?
No — in fact, many of these spots are budget-friendly and less commercial, meaning you get more value for your money.
4. What language is spoken in small Moroccan villages?
Mostly Amazigh (Berber) and Darija (Moroccan Arabic), but some locals speak basic French, too.
5. Are these hidden gems suitable for family travel?
Absolutely! Places like Ouzoud and El Jadida are especially fun for kids and easy to access for families.
So go ahead — chase the waterfalls, sip tea in a cave, lose your breath at sunset. The real Morocco isn’t always in the tour book, but it’s waiting for you just the same. –Abe Abdessamad
