From the centre of Marrakech to the edge of the Sahara, Morocco offers stays as diverse as its landscapes. Whether it’s a riad in the medina or a tent in the desert, where you sleep shapes how you experience the country.
Over the course of my visits, I’ve learned that choosing the right place determines the mood of your trip.
This guide breaks down the main types of accommodations across Morocco and helps you find one that fits your budget, region, and travel style.
The Typical Moroccan Stay: What Is a Riad?
Riads are traditional Moroccan homes built around a central courtyard, often with a small garden or fountain. Originally family homes, many have been restored and converted into intimate guest houses that reflect Morocco’s rich craftsmanship: world-famous zellige tilework, carved wood, and colorful textiles.
You’ll find the best riads in cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Essaouira, usually hidden behind unmarked doors in the medina. Inside, the rooms tend to be colorful, quiet, and calm, providing you with a well-deserved escape from the busy streets.
Comfort varies, but most feature cozy rooms, rooftop terraces, and homemade breakfasts. Riads are ideal for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants a more authentic experience.
Guesthouses and Their Appeal
Moroccan guesthouses are a great middle ground between hotels and riads. They’re usually simpler than riads and often family-run, which means you get more personal hospitality.
Breakfast is typically included, and hosts are happy to share local tips or even cook a home-style dinner. Guesthouses tend to be more casual, with prices that fit most budgets.
You’ll find them in both cities and smaller towns, places like Chefchaouen, the Atlas Mountains, and various coastal villages.
Experiencing the Desert: Tented Camps
Spending a night in a desert camp is a memory for life. You can choose a basic setup or a luxury tent with a real bed and private bathroom. But this experience is about more than just comfort. You’ll ride camels at sunset, share tea around a roaring fire, and fall asleep under a sky full of stars.
Merzouga and Zagora are the two main gateways, each offering different routes into the Sahara. Facilities range from very simple to surprisingly high-end.
So, it helps to check ahead. Perfect if you’re up for a bit of adventure and want to connect with Berber culture.
How to Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Trip
Where you stay in Morocco shapes your whole experience. Start by thinking about your route! Are you exploring cities like Fes or Marrakech, heading into the mountains, or venturing to the Sahara? Your budget, comfort preferences, and travel style (solo, couple, family) all matter.
Always check reviews, especially about cleanliness, Wi-Fi, and noise, and confirm what’s actually included. Location is key too. In big cities, being close to the medina makes exploring easier. In rural areas, look for good road access.
Booking Tips and Tools
Finding the right stay in Morocco is all about comparing your options. That’s where platforms like cozycozy come in handy. Whether you’re after a riad in Marrakech or a tented camp near Merzouga, cozycozy lets you search across dozens of booking sites at once. This saves you time and you can see real price differences.
Final Thoughts
One of the best things about traveling in Morocco is the variety of places you can stay; each offering a different window into the country’s culture.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Think about what matters most to you and let that guide your choice.
