Morocco is one of the most fascinating countries in North Africa, with lively markets, ancient cities, and landscapes that stretch from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains.
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Camels, mint tea, and colorful souks are just the beginning!
These fun facts about Morocco will give kids (and grown-ups) a taste of what makes this country so unique.
25 Fun Facts About Morocco
1. Morocco is in North Africa.
Morocco is located in the northwest corner of Africa, where it borders both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This makes it a country with beaches, mountains, and desert all in one.
2. Rabat is the capital city.
While many people think of Marrakech when they picture Morocco, the country’s official capital is Rabat. It’s known for its historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and seaside views.
3. The Sahara Desert covers much of Morocco.
The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, and part of it stretches into Morocco. Visitors can ride camels across the sand dunes and even camp overnight under the stars.
4. The Atlas Mountains run through the country.
The Atlas Mountains are a huge mountain range that stretches across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. In Morocco, these mountains are popular for hiking, and in winter, you can even ski at a Moroccan ski resort!
5. Morocco is famous for its bustling souks.
A souk is a market, and Moroccan souks are filled with colorful stalls selling spices, rugs, lanterns, and handmade goods. Walking through one is a feast for the senses, with bright colors, delicious smells, and the sounds of lively bargaining.
6. Mint tea is the national drink.
In Morocco, tea isn’t just a drink—it’s a tradition. Families often welcome guests with sweet mint tea, served in small glasses. It’s sometimes called “Moroccan whiskey,” but don’t worry—it’s only tea!
7. Moroccan food is delicious.
Moroccan cuisine is known for dishes like couscous, tagine (a slow-cooked stew), and pastries flavored with honey and nuts. Spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and saffron give Moroccan food its warm, rich flavor.
8. Morocco is home to the Barbary lion.
The Barbary lion once lived in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains and is now extinct in the wild. It was known as one of the largest lion subspecies in the world, and today, some still live in zoos.
9. Morocco has two official languages.
The official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber), but many people also speak French. In big cities and tourist areas, you’ll often hear a mix of languages.
10. Marrakech is called the “Red City.”
One of Morocco’s most famous cities, Marrakech, gets its nickname from the reddish walls and buildings that surround the old town. It’s a lively place filled with snake charmers, storytellers, and markets.
11. Morocco has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
From the historic city of Fez to the ancient ruins of Volubilis, Morocco is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These special places are recognized for their cultural and historical importance.
12. The world’s oldest university is in Morocco.
The University of al-Qarawiyyin, located in the city of Fez, was founded in 859 CE. It’s recognized by UNESCO as the world’s oldest university still operating today.
13. Morocco touches both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
This gives the country two very different coastlines—one with long sandy beaches and the other with rocky cliffs and clear blue water.
14. Morocco has ski resorts.
Even though it’s famous for deserts, Morocco has snow in the Atlas Mountains. The resort town of Oukaïmeden lets visitors ski down snowy slopes in winter.
15. Argan oil comes from Morocco.
Made from the nuts of the argan tree, argan oil is used for cooking and also in beauty products like shampoos and lotions. Morocco is the only place in the world where argan trees naturally grow.
16. Morocco has a long history.
People have lived in Morocco for thousands of years. The country has been influenced by Berber, Arab, and European cultures, which you can see in its architecture, food, and traditions.
17. Morocco is close to Europe.
At its narrowest point, the Strait of Gibraltar is only 8 miles wide, separating Morocco from Spain. On a clear day, you can actually see across to Europe!
18. Moroccan cities are colorful.
Each city has its own color theme. Marrakech is red, Chefchaouen is painted bright blue, and Casablanca is often associated with white buildings.
19. Morocco’s flag is red with a green star.
The red background represents bravery and strength, while the green star in the middle is a symbol of hope and faith.
20. Morocco is famous for its festivals.
From music festivals to cultural celebrations, Morocco loves a good party. The Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira is one of the most popular.
21. Camels are important in desert travel.
For centuries, camels have been used to carry people and goods across the Sahara Desert. They’re known as the “ships of the desert” because they can go days without water.
22. Morocco has many Berber villages.
The Berber people are the original inhabitants of North Africa. In Morocco, many Berber villages can be found in the mountains, where families still live in traditional homes.
23. Morocco is full of palaces and mosques.
From the royal palaces in Rabat to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (one of the largest in the world), Morocco is home to incredible architecture.
24. Morocco has both modern cities and ancient medinas.
A medina is the old part of a city, usually surrounded by walls. Walking through a Moroccan medina feels like stepping back in time, with narrow streets, markets, and historic buildings.
25. Morocco’s landscapes are incredibly varied.
In one country, you can hike snowy mountains, ride camels in the desert, surf on the Atlantic Ocean, and explore ancient cities. That’s what makes Morocco such a unique and special place.
Morocco is a country full of color, culture, and history. From sipping mint tea to exploring the Sahara Desert, it’s easy to see why it’s such a fascinating place to learn about.
Next time you think of North Africa, remember these fun facts that show just how amazing Morocco really is!