Best Photography Locations in Morocco for Every Photographer: Best Places in Morocco

When planning your Morocco tours, one of the key considerations for photographers is finding the best photography locations in Morocco. From the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the breathtaking landscapes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a plethora of captivating spots for photographers of all levels.

In this article, we will delve into the diverse array of photography locations in Morocco, catering to every photographer's interest and style. Whether you're drawn to bustling cityscapes, ancient architecture, or sweeping natural vistas, Morocco has something extraordinary to offer.

Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make Morocco a photographer's paradise.

Chefchaouen (Blue City)

Chefchaouen, also known as the Blue City, is renowned for its striking blue-washed buildings, narrow winding streets, and vibrant local markets.

Location: Located in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco.

Why it's a good photography location: The unique blue color palette against the backdrop of the mountains offers endless photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Photography tips: Capture the intricate details of the blue-hued buildings and the bustling activity of the local souks. Experiment with different angles to highlight the contrast between the blue walls and the surrounding landscape.

Photography restrictions: Respect the privacy of locals and avoid photographing individuals without their permission, particularly in more intimate settings.

Marrakech (Medina & Jemaa el-Fnaa)

Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its bustling medina, historic landmarks, and lively atmosphere.

Location: Located in central Morocco, at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.

Why it's a good photography location: Marrakech offers a mix of architectural wonders, bustling street scenes, and colorful markets, making it ideal for street photography and capturing the essence of Moroccan culture.

Photography tips: Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa square to capture the vibrant street performances, food stalls, and bustling crowds. Explore the narrow alleys of the medina to photograph the ornate architecture and vibrant street life.

Photography restrictions: Exercise discretion when photographing locals, particularly in crowded areas, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.

Ait Ben Haddou (Kasbah)

Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified village made up of earthen buildings, or kasbahs, situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech.

Location: Located in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, near the town of Ouarzazate.

Why it's a good photography location: Ait Ben Haddou offers a glimpse into Morocco's ancient architectural heritage, with its well-preserved kasbahs and dramatic desert backdrop.

Photography tips: Visit during golden hour to capture the warm hues of the desert landscape and the intricate details of the kasbahs. Experiment with different perspectives to highlight the village's unique architectural features.

Photography restrictions: Some areas of Ait Ben Haddou may be off-limits or require permission for photography, particularly if filming is taking place on-site.

Sahara Desert (Sand Dunes)

The Sahara Desert is the world's largest hot desert, characterized by vast stretches of sand dunes, rugged terrain, and stunning desert landscapes.

Location: Spans across North Africa, including southeastern Morocco.

Why it's a good photography location: The Sahara Desert offers unparalleled opportunities for capturing breathtaking desert landscapes, dune formations, and the ethereal beauty of the desert at sunrise and sunset.

Photography tips: Utilize wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness of the desert landscape and experiment with long exposures to capture the movement of sand dunes in the wind. Pay attention to light and shadow to create dynamic compositions.

Photography restrictions: Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when photographing nomadic communities or sensitive cultural sites within the desert.

Town of Essaouira (Coastal City)

Essaouira is a charming coastal city known for its picturesque harbor, historic medina, and vibrant art scene.

Location: Located along the Atlantic coast of Morocco, approximately 2.5 hours west of Marrakech.

Why it's a good photography location: Essaouira's coastal beauty, with its windswept beaches, colorful fishing boats, and whitewashed buildings, provides a scenic backdrop for photography.

Photography tips: Capture the dynamic scenes at the bustling fishing harbor, wander through the medina's narrow streets to photograph local artisans at work, and head to the beach to capture the dramatic coastline and surfers in action.

Photography restrictions: Exercise sensitivity when photographing locals, particularly in more intimate settings, and be mindful of cultural norms regarding modesty and privacy.

Fez (Medina & Tannery)

Fez, one of Morocco's oldest imperial cities, boasts a labyrinthine medina, intricate architecture, and traditional tanneries.

Location: Located in northern Morocco, nestled between the Rif and Middle Atlas Mountains.

Why it's a good photography location: Fez's medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a wealth of opportunities for capturing ancient streets, bustling markets, and skilled artisans at work. The iconic tanneries provide unique photo subjects with their colorful dye vats.

Photography tips: Embrace the chaos of the medina's narrow alleyways and capture the vibrant atmosphere of daily life. Visit the tanneries early in the morning to capture the best light and minimize the crowds.

Photography restrictions: Some areas of the medina may be restricted or off-limits for photography, particularly private residences and religious sites. Respect local customs and seek permission when photographing individuals.

High Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas Mountains, Morocco's most extensive mountain range, offer rugged landscapes, picturesque valleys, and traditional Berber villages.

Location: Spanning across central Morocco, extending southwest from Marrakech to the city of Ouarzazate.

Why it's a good photography location: The High Atlas Mountains provide stunning panoramic views, dramatic terrain, and cultural immersion opportunities in Berber communities. Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the mountain slopes, as well as the unique architecture of mountain villages.

Photography tips: Take advantage of the mountain's elevation to capture sweeping vistas and dynamic cloud formations. Engage with locals to capture authentic portraits and scenes of daily life.

Photography restrictions: Exercise sensitivity when photographing individuals, particularly in more remote villages, and respect local customs regarding photography.

Todra Gorge

Todra Gorge is a spectacular canyon carved by the Todra River, renowned for its towering limestone cliffs, lush palm groves, and natural beauty.

Location: Located in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains, near the town of Tinerhir.

Why it's a good photography location: Todra Gorge offers dramatic rock formations, narrow passageways, and contrasting landscapes, making it ideal for capturing the play of light and shadow. The oasis-like surroundings provide a serene backdrop for photography.

Photography tips: Explore different vantage points along the gorge to capture its scale and depth. Experiment with long exposures to capture the movement of water and the textures of the canyon walls.

Photography restrictions: Be mindful of local customs and seek permission before photographing individuals, particularly in more private or intimate settings within the gorge.

Majorelle Garden

Majorelle Garden is a lush botanical garden featuring vibrant flora, tranquil ponds, and artful landscaping, set against the iconic backdrop of the cobalt blue Villa Oasis.

Location: Situated in the heart of Marrakech, near the medina.

Why it's a good photography location: The vibrant colors and exotic plant species make Majorelle Garden a photographer's paradise, offering endless opportunities for capturing botanical beauty and architectural charm.

Photography tips: Experiment with macro photography to capture the intricate details of exotic plants and flowers. Utilize the vivid blue walls of the villa as a striking backdrop for portraits or artistic compositions.

Photography restrictions: Respect the garden's rules regarding photography, including areas where tripods may not be allowed or restrictions on commercial photography. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid disrupting the tranquil atmosphere.

Hassan II Mosque

Hassan II Mosque is a grand architectural marvel, boasting intricate tilework, towering minarets, and the distinction of being one of the largest mosques in the world.

Location: Located along the coastline of Casablanca, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Why it's a good photography location: Hassan II Mosque offers stunning architectural details, geometric patterns, and a dramatic seaside setting, providing ample opportunities for capturing both exterior and interior shots.

Photography tips: Visit during golden hour to capture the warm glow of the setting sun illuminating the mosque's facade. Pay attention to the interplay of light and shadow to highlight the intricate tilework and decorative elements.

Photography restrictions: Respect the mosque's religious significance and adhere to guidelines regarding appropriate dress and behavior. Photography inside the mosque may be restricted or require permission, so inquire beforehand and be respectful of any restrictions.

Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is a vast expanse of undulating sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and arid landscapes, stretching across North Africa.

Location: Spans southeastern Morocco, bordered by Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the south.

Why it's a good photography location: The Sahara Desert offers unparalleled opportunities for capturing the raw beauty of nature, with its sweeping vistas, ever-changing dunes, and celestial displays. The stark contrast between the golden sands and the clear blue sky creates a mesmerizing backdrop for photography.

Photography tips: Venture into the desert during sunrise or sunset to capture the soft, warm light illuminating the dunes. Experiment with different compositions, including leading lines, silhouettes, and minimalist shots to convey the vastness and solitude of the desert landscape.

Photography restrictions: Respect the fragile ecosystem of the desert and adhere to guidelines for responsible desert travel, including staying on designated paths and minimizing environmental impact. Be mindful of local customs and seek permission before photographing nomadic communities or sensitive cultural sites within the desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Fez a notable destination for photography in Morocco?

Fez, with its ancient medina and traditional tanneries, offers unique opportunities for photographers to capture the essence of Moroccan culture and architecture.

Are there specific photography locations in Casablanca worth visiting on a trip to Morocco?

While Casablanca is known more for its bustling urban atmosphere, landmarks like the Hassan II Mosque provide stunning photo opportunities for photographers seeking architectural marvels.

Is street photography popular in Morocco?

Yes, street photography thrives in Moroccan cities like Marrakech and Fez, where bustling markets (souks) and vibrant street scenes offer rich visual narratives.

What are some recommended photo locations for capturing the essence of Morocco?

Iconic locations such as Marrakech's Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the blue city of Chefchaouen, and the serene landscapes of the Sahara Desert are favored by photographers for their unique charm and cultural significance.

Can photographers find opportunities for desert photography, including desert camps?

Absolutely! Morocco's Sahara Desert offers breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for capturing the beauty of desert camps against the backdrop of shifting sand dunes.

How can photographers prepare for photographing in Moroccan souks?

Photographers should be respectful of local customs and seek permission before photographing individuals. It's also wise to keep gear secure and be mindful of crowded spaces.

What makes Morocco a unique destination for photography enthusiasts?

Morocco's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant street life make it an inspiring destination for photographers of all levels.

Is it necessary to hire a local photographer when exploring photography locations in Morocco?

While not essential, hiring a local photographer can provide valuable insights into hidden gems and cultural nuances, enhancing the photography experience in Morocco.

Are there specific tips for photographers interested in capturing Morocco's architecture?

Yes, photographers should pay attention to lighting conditions and angles to highlight the intricate details of Moroccan architecture, whether it's the ornate designs of mosques or the ancient kasbahs.

What equipment is recommended for Morocco photography?

A versatile camera setup with wide-angle and zoom lenses is ideal for capturing the diverse landscapes and cultural scenes found throughout Morocco. Additionally, a sturdy tripod can be beneficial for long exposures and low-light situations.