Last weekend I spent five days in Morocco on a trip with my study abroad program, and it was one of the most unique travel experiences I have ever had. It was my first time in Africa and in an Arab country, and therefore a wonderful opportunity to observe a different culture.
The first day of our trip consisted of long ferry and bus rides and an evening exploring the marketplace in Meknes. The city is known for its historical architecture, especially a huge gate with arches and mosaics that leads to the old imperial city.
Day 2 was more bus rides, which were relaxing and fun. As we drove along, the landscape changed dramatically, from dry rocky ground (reminded me of Utah) to forest trees to farmland with crops (reminded me of the Midwest) to river valleys to sandy desert.
Finally, as dark approached, we made it to the edge of the Sahara Desert, near the village Merzouga. We watched the most gorgeous sunset I have ever seen (the whole sky was full of purples, pinks, oranges, yellows, and eventually a deep red) and then boarded into SUVs to drive through the sand to our campground.
The next morning, we woke up to trek through the sand dunes to watch the sunrise (I know, so many sun pictures from this trip). It was quite a hike – walking through sand is hard – but definitely worth it. One of the Moroccan men from the nearby area was our guide and led us to the top of a sand dune to sit and watch in silence.
The big event of the day was a camel ride through the desert! I was expecting a few minutes of sitting on a camel, taking a picture, and maybe walking in a circle…but no, this was a full two hour adventure through the desert, with endless sand in all directions and the unrelenting sun shining overhead. It was hot and dusty and bright, but absolutely amazing.
At one point we got off the camels and climbed up a giant, steep sand dune (definitely a good workout), rested a bit, and ran back down. We saw some local kids playing there too – it was amazing how the Moroccan people traverse all over the desert with ease, while us Americans were huffing and puffing to walk even a little distance.
Other highlight of Merzouga: the food! It was amazing and served in a giant tent for all of us each meal. My favorite was a giant pot of couscous with roasted vegetables, chicken, raisins, and spices.
Our final destination was the big city Fes, often known as the county’s cultural capital. The medina (the old walled part of the town) was an endless maze of streets and shops. We visited a carpet place, a “pharmacy” with natural oils/herbs/creams, a tannery & leather shop, and other smaller vendors.
Some other observations from Morocco:
– We saw many more men than women out and about on the streets. Workers were almost only men, and if we saw women they would usually be fully covered and walking together in groups. There were exceptions, and it was more traditional the closer we were to the small desert towns, but in general I could definitely feel more of a cultural divide between men and women than I am used to.
– The food was so fresh and healthy! Dessert after every meal was an orange or a banana, which I loved.
– The people were extremely friendly to tourists. Many locals would say “welcome to Morocco” or “please enjoy Morocco.” I remember our tour guide in Fes telling us that as a Muslim he welcomes us kindly, because he believes in “all of the prophets” and loves all people. I never felt hostility or arrogance, only kindness and warmth.
Overall, it was a weekend I will never forget. I am thankful for the opportunity to see part of the world that is so different than my normal life. Until next time, Morocco!
Cora the Explorer 