Morocco
Morocco in August: backpacking through desert and mountains
Morocco is a country full of contrasts. You walk through narrow alleys with dark little shops, then the next day you're scrambling through sand dunes or surfing along quiet coastlines. August is hot, so plan carefully and drink plenty of water.
28 August 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 5 sources
Where to go
Marrakech has the El Badi Palace, an impressive ruin from the 16th century. Fes is older and more chaotic - perfect if you like echoes and crowds. Chefchaouen, high in the mountains of the north, is an entire town painted blue.
Fancy something bigger? Book a three-day Sahara tour to Merzouga. You sleep in a tented camp in the desert and ride a camel through the dunes. For sea air, head to the small surf town of Sidi Kaouki, known for its quiet beach and good waves.
- Wander through the alleys of Fes and Marrakech without a plan - you'll stumble on the best spots by accident.
- Book a Sahara tour through your hostel or a local tour guide.
In Morocco, you discover a culture that feels very different from home, and that's exactly what makes it an adventure.Morocco
How to get around
The train connects the major cities and runs reliably. Many backpackers choose a hire car instead, since it lets you stop wherever you like.
One thing to note: Google Maps badly underestimates travel times in Morocco. Where the map says 4 hours, plan for 5 to 6. Travel with two people so you can share the driving and stay less tired.
- Hire a car if you want to travel independently.
- Make sure you have two drivers.
- Add at least an hour and a half to whatever Google Maps tells you.
Budget and practical tips
Morocco is cheap. Hostels cost around 10 to 15 euros a night. Book your bed in advance, since good hostels fill up fast. For other hotels, check Booking.com.
Make sure you get your passport stamped as soon as you land at the airport. In tourist areas, plenty of people speak English and French. Don't leave valuables lying around in your room or car.
- Get your passport stamped at the airport.
- Book your hostel a few weeks ahead.
- Lock away anything you'd miss - cars and rooms get broken into regularly.
