Explore Now

17 Most Instagrammable Places in Morocco for 2025 (With Photo Tips & Maps)

Discover Morocco's most Instagrammable spots for 2025 with this insider guide. From Chefchaouen's blue streets to Marrakech's colorful souks, learn how to capture perfect photos while respecting local culture.

Why Morocco Should Be Your Next Photography Adventure

The first time I arrived in Casablanca after landing at Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), I was completely unprepared for how Morocco would transform my understanding of color, light, and composition. On my sixth visit last month, I still found myself gasping at scenes I’d somehow missed before – a hidden riad courtyard in Fes, the perfect crack of dawn light on the Sahara dunes, and a tiny blue doorway in Chefchaouen that literally stopped me in my tracks.

What makes Morocco so incredibly photogenic isn’t just the obvious landmarks you see flooding Instagram. It’s the way the harsh North African sun creates the most dramatic shadows across ancient architecture. It’s how the desert palette of terracotta, ochre and sand is punctuated by explosions of cobalt blue, emerald green, and saffron yellow. It’s the surprising juxtapositions of ancient and modern that create visual stories in a single frame.

After countless clicks of my camera shutter across this magnificent country, I’ve compiled this meticulously researched guide to the 17 most spectacular Instagram spots in Morocco for 2025, with all my hard-earned tips on timing, angles, cultural considerations, and even the technical camera settings that have given me my best shots.

Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl of Morocco

No place in Morocco has gained more Instagram fame than Chefchaouen, and after my fifth visit this spring, I can confidently say it still lives up to the hype. What many first-time visitors don’t realize is that not every corner of this mountain town is photogenic – you need to know exactly where to look.

Best Photo Spots in Chefchaouen

  • Plaza Uta el-Hammam – The main square offers a perfect starting point with its distinctive red-tiled fortress contrasting against blue walls.
  • Callejón el Asri – This narrow street features my favorite blue staircase in the entire medina, best photographed between 10-11 AM when sunlight cascades down the steps.
  • Spanish Mosque Viewpoint – A 30-minute uphill hike rewards you with a panoramic vista of the blue city nestled in the Rif Mountains. The golden hour here has brought tears to my eyes more than once.

During my last visit, I accidentally discovered what I now consider the ultimate Chefchaouen photo spot. Behind Pension Souika, follow the narrow alley marked with a tiny hand-painted sign reading “Casa Hassan” until you reach a staircase with blue flowerpots. The light here around 4 PM creates a magical blue glow that I haven’t seen captured often on social media.

Local Tip: Most tourists visit Chefchaouen as a day trip, arriving around 11 AM and leaving by 4 PM. Stay overnight and photograph the empty streets at dawn (around 6:30 AM) when the blue hues appear most vibrant and you’ll have entire streets to yourself. The locals say “sbah el kheir” (good morning) as they begin their day.

Photography Ethics in Chefchaouen

Remember that Chefchaouen is home to real people, not just a photography backdrop. I’ve made the mistake of thoughtlessly photographing residents without permission, which rightfully earned me some stern looks. Always ask “Mumkin sura?” (May I take a photo?) before photographing people or their doorways. Many locals now charge 5-10 dirhams for photos, which is completely fair considering the tourism their town attracts.

Marrakech’s Most Photogenic Corners

Marrakech nearly overwhelmed me on my first visit with its sensory overload of colors, sounds, and smells. Now that I’ve spent more time exploring beyond the obvious tourist spots, I’ve discovered the truly unique photo opportunities that capture the city’s essence.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

The main square transforms completely from day to night. Rather than just snapping a standard shot, try these approaches:

  • Morning (7-9 AM): Capture the nearly empty square with golden light washing over the historic buildings
  • Sunset from Café Glacier: Pay the 20 dirham minimum consumption for rooftop access and photograph the square as it comes alive with food stalls
  • Night motion blur: Use a slow shutter speed (1/15 sec) to capture the swirling movement of crowds around the illuminated food stalls

Majorelle Garden & YSL Museum

This iconic blue and yellow garden requires strategic timing. When I first visited midday, my photos were ruined by harsh shadows and crowds. Now I:

  1. Arrive 30 minutes before opening (8 AM) and go straight to the famous blue fountain
  2. Use the online booking system to secure the first morning slot
  3. Focus on details: cactus shadows against blue walls, yellow pot arrangements, koi fish in the reflecting pools

The combined ticket for Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum costs 200 dirhams, but the compositions you’ll capture are worth every dirham. The museum’s black and white geometric courtyard offers particularly striking photo opportunities.

Hidden Riads

The most authentic Instagram content from Marrakech comes from the stunning traditional guest houses called riads. Even if you don’t stay in these luxury accommodations, many allow visits to their courtyards for the price of mint tea (30-50 dirhams).

My personal favorites include:

Riad Name Notable Photo Feature Best Time Visit Cost
Riad Yasmine The famous green-tiled pool with palm motif 12-2 PM (overhead light) 100 MAD with refreshment
Riad Le Farnatchi Stunning archways with hanging lanterns 4-6 PM (golden glow) 80 MAD minimum consumption
La Maison Arabe Intricate carved wooden details Any time (excellent indoor lighting) 200 MAD for afternoon tea experience

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Instead of paying for individual riad visits, book a private Instagram photography tour through local photographers who have arrangements with multiple riads. For 350 dirhams, you’ll access 4-5 exclusive properties with expert guidance on the best angles. I’ve formed friendships with several local photographers this way who now message me when they discover new spots.

The Sahara Desert: Capturing Endless Dunes

Nothing has humbled me more as a photographer than attempting to capture the immensity of the Sahara Desert. The scale is almost impossible to convey in a single frame, but with the right approach, your images will transport viewers to this magical landscape.

Erg Chebbi vs. Erg Chigaga

Morocco has two major dune systems, and choosing between them involves tradeoffs:

  • Erg Chebbi (near Merzouga): More accessible with taller dunes (up to 150m), but more crowded with tourists. The classic camel train shots are easier to get here.
  • Erg Chigaga (near M’hamid): Requires a longer journey but offers more solitude and authentic desert experience. My personal preference after trying both.

Desert Photography Tips

After multiple desert trips (and several technical disasters), here’s what I’ve learned:

  1. Golden Hours Are Everything: The 45 minutes after sunrise and before sunset create magical sidelight that reveals the dunes’ ripples and textures.
  2. Include Scale: Place a human subject (or camel) far in the distance to demonstrate the dunes’ enormous size.
  3. Protect Your Gear: Sand is a camera’s worst enemy. I once destroyed a $700 lens by changing it during a light breeze. Bring a dust-proof camera bag and change lenses inside it.
  4. Overexpose Slightly: The camera meter often reads sand as brighter than it is. Add +0.7 exposure compensation for more accurate colors.

My most successful desert shots have come from climbing to the highest nearby dune at least 30 minutes before sunrise. The effort of ascending in darkness has been rewarded with uninterrupted views and that magical blue-to-gold transition light that can’t be replicated at any other time.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Instead of booking a desert tour from Marrakech (which can cost 1200+ dirhams), take the ONCF train to Fes for 200 dirhams, then a shared taxi to Merzouga for about 300 dirhams. Local camps charge 50% less than those booked through international websites. I’ve saved over 800 dirhams this way and met wonderful local guides.

Fes: Ancient Alleyways and Artisan Workshops

Photographically speaking, Fes represents a completely different challenge than Morocco’s other Instagram hotspots. The labyrinthine medina – with over 9,000 narrow passages – creates intimate spaces where wide-angle lenses shine. The lack of natural light in many areas will test your low-light photography skills.

Tanneries: Timing Is Everything

The famous Chouara Tannery is Fes’ most iconic photo spot, but timing your visit is crucial. My first attempt was a complete disaster – I arrived at midday when the harsh overhead sun created terrible reflections and shadows on the dye pits.

The perfect tannery visit requires:

  • Morning light (8-10 AM) – When the sun illuminates the colorful dye pits without harsh shadows
  • Weekday visits – When workers are actively moving between pits
  • A trustworthy viewpoint – I recommend Terrasse Cafe which charges only 10 dirhams for entry (with purchase) rather than the 20-30 dirhams many leather shops charge

The smell is notoriously pungent – the mint sprigs offered at entrances help, but I’ve found that a tiny dab of tiger balm under my nostrils works much better without appearing in photos like a mint sprig does.

Bou Inania Madrasa

This 14th-century Islamic school reopened to non-Muslim visitors in 2022 after extensive renovations. The intricate cedar wood carvings, zellige tilework, and marble courtyard create perfect compositions for detail-oriented photographers.

After three visits, I’ve discovered the best photography approach is:

  1. Arrive at opening (9 AM) before tour groups
  2. Begin in the courtyard for wide shots while the light is still soft
  3. Move to detailed shots of the geometric patterns as the sun rises higher
  4. Finish with photos of the rooftop overlooking the ancient medina

The entrance fee of 70 dirhams includes access to several other historic monuments, making it an excellent value for photographers.

Cultural Respect Tip: While non-Muslims can now enter this former religious school, it remains a place of historical reverence. Dress modestly, speak quietly, and avoid posing in ways that might appear disrespectful. I once witnessed a tourist asked to leave for attempting inappropriate yoga poses for Instagram – don’t be that person.

Essaouira: Coastal Blue and White Perfection

After the sensory intensity of Morocco’s imperial cities, Essaouira’s breezy Atlantic atmosphere offers a completely different aesthetic. The fortified medina with its blue fishing boats, whitewashed buildings, and dramatic ramparts provides the perfect coastal counterpoint in your Instagram gallery.

The Port: Blue Boats and Fresh Catch

Essaouira’s working fishing port is my favorite place to photograph authentic daily life. The rows of bright blue boats against weathered sea walls create that perfect color palette that performs so well on Instagram.

Visit between 4-5 PM when:

  • Fishing boats return with their catch
  • Seagulls swarm dramatically overhead
  • The late afternoon light bathes everything in a golden glow
  • Fishermen clean and sell their catch directly from wooden tables

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Instead of eating seafood at the touristy restaurants along the main square, head to the fish market stalls at the port entrance. For 80-100 dirhams (compared to 200+ at restaurants), fishmongers will grill your choice of fresh catch with simple lemon and herbs. I’ve had my best meals in Morocco this way, sitting on plastic chairs watching the sunset.

Skala du Port & City Walls

The massive stone fortifications made famous in Game of Thrones provide sweeping views and dramatic architectural elements. I recommend:

  • Skala du Port: Visit around 10 AM when the light illuminates the enormous Portuguese cannons against the ocean backdrop
  • Northern Ramparts: These less-visited sections offer unobstructed views down empty alleyways
  • Photo Composition Tip: Use the stone archways to frame distant subjects like fishing boats or the medina streets

The entrance fee for the Skala is only 60 dirhams, and your ticket allows reentry throughout the day – perfect for capturing different lighting conditions.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Instagram Spots

While the locations above form the backbone of most Morocco photography itineraries, some of my most successful images have come from places far fewer travelers visit. These spots offer fresh perspectives that will make your Instagram feed stand out from typical Morocco content.

Akchour Waterfalls (Near Chefchaouen)

Just 30km from the Blue City lies a lush river valley with emerald pools and dramatic waterfalls rarely seen on Instagram. The 4-hour round-trip hike requires moderate fitness but rewards you with scenes that contrast beautifully with Morocco’s desert aesthetic.

For the best photographs:

  • Start hiking by 8 AM to catch dappled light through the trees
  • Bring a lightweight tripod for long-exposure waterfall shots (I use 1/4 second at f/16)
  • Pack a dry bag for your camera gear – river crossings are unavoidable

Local guides charge around 300 dirhams for the full day, but I’ve found the trail well-marked enough to navigate independently with maps.me downloaded offline.

Aït Mansour Gorge (Anti-Atlas Mountains)

This remote palm oasis nestled between dramatic red rock cliffs feels like stepping into another world. The 3-hour drive from Tafraoute through winding mountain roads has deterred mass tourism, meaning your photos won’t be replicated on thousands of other feeds.

The contrast between verdant date palms, mud-brick kasbahs, and towering red cliffs creates stunning compositional opportunities. Visit between February-April when wildflowers add yellow and purple accents to the landscape.

Sustainability Tip: Hire a local guide from Tafraoute (around 400 dirhams/day) rather than joining a tour from a major city. This ensures tourism money reaches these remote communities directly. My guide Mohammed not only explained the unique irrigation systems but introduced me to his family who served traditional couscous in their home – an experience far richer than any restaurant meal.

Sidi Ifni’s Art Deco Architecture

This sleepy coastal town 3 hours south of Agadir preserves remarkable Spanish Art Deco buildings from the colonial era. The pastel colors, geometric patterns, and crumbling facades create a retro aesthetic unlike anywhere else in Morocco.

I recommend photographing:

  • The blue and white Spanish-era lighthouse
  • The former Spanish consulate with its faded blue facade
  • Colorful fishing boats along Legzira Beach

The famous red stone arch at Legzira Beach collapsed in 2016, but two smaller arches remain accessible at low tide, offering spectacular sunrise silhouettes.

Technical Photography Tips for Morocco

After numerous photography trips to Morocco (and many technical failures), I’ve developed specific techniques that help overcome the unique challenges this country presents:

Managing Extreme Contrast

Morocco’s bright sunlight against dark medina shadows creates exposure challenges. I’ve found these solutions most effective:

  • Bracket exposures in high-contrast scenes (±2 stops) for HDR blending later
  • Carry a small collapsible reflector to bounce light into shadowy doorways
  • Use spot metering on the most important mid-tone element
  • Shoot in RAW format to recover shadow details without noise

Recommended Gear for Morocco

Item Why I Recommend It Approximate Cost
24-70mm f/2.8 lens Versatile focal range for everything from architecture to portraits $1,800 (or rent for $25/day)
Lightweight travel tripod Essential for blue hour in medinas and night sky in desert $150-300
Polarizing filter Reduces glare on tiles and enhances blue skies $50-100
Sensor cleaning kit Desert dust is inevitable and shows in sky photos $25-40

On my last trip, I finally invested in a weather-sealed camera body after destroying my previous one during a sudden desert sandstorm. The extra $500 was painful at the time but has already paid for itself in reliability.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Instead of paying for extra luggage for your camera gear, wear a photographer’s vest with multiple pockets. Airlines rarely count this as a “personal item” even when loaded with lenses and accessories. I’ve saved approximately 600 dirhams per flight this way.

Portrait Photography and Cultural Respect

One of my biggest early mistakes in Morocco was thoughtlessly photographing people without permission, which created understandable resentment. Now I follow these guidelines:

  1. Always ask before photographing people (“Mumkin sura?” is “Can I take a photo?” in Darija Arabic)
  2. Be prepared to pay 5-20 dirhams for portraits, especially in tourist areas
  3. Show subjects the photo afterwards and offer to send it via WhatsApp
  4. Avoid photographing women without explicit permission

My most meaningful portraits have come after spending time conversing with subjects first. The copper artisan in Fes who showed me his forty-year-old hands, the Berber grandmother who invited me for tea before allowing a portrait – these connections created authentic images impossible to achieve with a “snatch and grab” approach.

Practical Travel Information

After hearing from readers who loved my photo locations but struggled with logistics, here are critical details to make your photography journey smoother:

Getting Around Morocco

Your transportation choice drastically affects which photo locations you can access:

  • Public Transport: Comfortable trains connect major cities (Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fes, Marrakech). Supratours buses reach smaller towns.
  • Grand Taxis: These shared Mercedes sedans connect cities to surrounding villages. Expect to pay 150-300 dirhams for a full car, or about 50 dirhams per seat.
  • Private Driver: The most flexible option costs 800-1200 dirhams per day but allows sunrise/sunset stops and remote locations.
  • Rental Car: From 300 dirhams/day, but beware challenging driving conditions and limited parking in medinas.

Having tried all options over multiple trips, I now combine trains between major cities with a private driver for 2-3 day segments when exploring remote areas. This balances cost with photographic flexibility.

When to Visit for Best Photography

Morocco’s climate varies dramatically by region and season:

Season Pros Cons Best For Photographing
Spring (Mar-May) Moderate temperatures, green landscapes, wildflowers Peak tourism season, higher prices Atlas Mountains, desert edges, northern Morocco
Summer (Jun-Aug) Long daylight hours, fewer tourists Extreme heat inland (40°C+), harsh midday light Coastal areas only (Essaouira, Asilah)
Fall (Sep-Nov) Pleasant temperatures, beautiful light, lower prices Some facilities closed in smaller towns Desert, medinas, mountain valleys
Winter (Dec-Feb) Empty tourist sites, dramatic clouds, snow in mountains Cold nights, possible rain, shorter days Architectural interiors, cities, dramatic mountain landscapes

My personal favorite time is late October when temperatures are moderate, tourist crowds have thinned, and the light has a beautiful golden quality all day long.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Hotel prices drop by 30-40% during Ramadan as tourist numbers decline. While some restaurants close during daylight hours, most tourist facilities remain open. I’ve found this period offers incredible value for photographers willing to respect local customs. Just plan shooting around the slightly adjusted operating hours.

Internet and Data for Sharing Photos

Staying connected to share your Morocco images has become much easier since my first visit:

  • Purchase a local SIM card from Maroc Telecom at the airport (100 dirhams for 10GB valid for 30 days)
  • Free WiFi is available in most hotels and cafés, but often too slow for large image uploads
  • Pre-download offline maps for remote areas via Google Maps or maps.me
  • Consider a portable power bank as photography drains phone batteries quickly

I now edit photos on my iPad mini during long train journeys and upload finished images using my Moroccan SIM data while having dinner each evening – an efficient workflow that keeps my social media current without sacrificing exploration time.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Incredible Morocco Photos

After countless conversations with readers who followed my previous Morocco guides, I’ve distilled their feedback into this actionable plan that balances photography with authentic travel experiences:

  1. Schedule photography around optimal light – Plan sunrise shoots at major locations, then explore naturally during midday (markets, museums, food) before positioning for sunset shoots. This maximizes both photo quality and enjoyment.
  2. Balance iconic shots with personal discoveries – For every famous view you photograph, challenge yourself to find two unique perspectives nearby that aren’t on Instagram. These often become favorite images.
  3. Connect with local photographers – Reach out via Instagram to Morocco-based photographers before your trip. Many are willing to meet for coffee and share their favorite spots in exchange for social media tags or small gifts from your home country.
  4. Create a shot list but remain flexible – List your must-have photos but allow unexpected moments to redirect you. My best Morocco image (a doorway in Fes with perfect light) happened during a wrong turn while lost.
  5. Process images thoughtfully – Resist the temptation to over-saturate Morocco’s already vibrant colors. Subtle editing that preserves the authentic feeling will age better and create a more cohesive collection.

Remember that the most compelling Morocco content combines beautiful visuals with authentic cultural understanding. The stories behind your images – the craftsman who explained his technique, the family who invited you for tea, the wrong turn that led to discovery – these narratives elevate your photography from pretty pictures to meaningful documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to photograph in Morocco as a solo female traveler?

As a woman who has photographed throughout Morocco both solo and with companions, I can offer a nuanced perspective. Yes, it’s generally safe, but requires awareness. In major tourist areas, photography is completely normal. In more conservative neighborhoods, I’ve found dressing modestly (shoulders covered, knee-length garments) and using a smaller camera significantly reduces unwanted attention.

When photographing alone, I avoid empty streets and nighttime shooting without a local guide. During my last trip, I hired female guides in several cities who not only provided cultural insights but also created a buffer that made street photography more comfortable.

What are the rules for photographing mosques in Morocco?

This is a common source of confusion. With the exception of Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, non-Muslims cannot enter active mosques in Morocco. However, exterior photography is generally permitted from a respectful distance. For the Hassan II Mosque, photography is allowed inside during official guided tours (120 dirhams).

Religious schools (madrasas) like those in Fes and Marrakech are open to visitors and allow interior photography. Always respect prayer times and avoid photographing people in worship without explicit permission.

How do I avoid getting scammed when hiring photography guides?

After one unfortunate experience with a “photography guide” who merely led me to commission-paying shops, I now recommend:

  • Book guides through reputable photography platforms like Aperture Tours or Muench Workshops
  • Check Instagram location tags to find local photographers and contact them directly
  • Never pay the full amount upfront; 50% deposit is standard
  • Verify their knowledge by asking specific photography questions before booking

The best guide I’ve found was actually through a random Instagram connection – a local Marrakech photographer who showed me hidden spots for 400 dirhams per half-day, with no shopping stops or commissions.

What photography permits do I need in Morocco?

For personal photography, no formal permits are required at most locations. However, professional commercial photography (especially with models, products, or large equipment) often requires authorization.

Specific locations with photography restrictions or fees include:

  • Archaeological sites like Volubilis (extra 50 dirham camera fee)
  • Some private palaces and museums prohibit tripods
  • Military installations and government buildings (avoid photographing these entirely)

When in doubt, I always ask staff at the entrance rather than risking equipment confiscation or fines.

How do I protect my camera gear from desert sand?

Having damaged two lenses during desert shoots, I’ve learned these hard-earned lessons:

  • Use a weather-sealed camera body and lenses when possible
  • Never change lenses while in open desert areas
  • Carry a small rocket blower to remove surface sand before opening your bag
  • Use silica gel packets in your camera bag overnight
  • Consider a clear UV filter as sacrificial protection for your lens glass

If you do get sand in your equipment, avoid using compressed air cans which can drive particles deeper into mechanisms. Instead, have your gear professionally cleaned once you return home.

What’s the etiquette for photographing Berber nomads in remote areas?

During my time in the Atlas Mountains, I learned that Berber communities have varying perspectives on photography. Some welcome it as a way to share their culture, while others find it intrusive.

The respectful approach I now follow:

  1. Always have a local guide make the initial introduction
  2. Spend time conversing before bringing out your camera
  3. Offer to send printed photos back to the community (via your guide)
  4. Be prepared to offer compensation (100-200 dirhams) for formal portraits

Some of my most meaningful Morocco images came after sharing tea with nomadic families and genuinely connecting before asking permission to photograph their daily lives.

References and Further Reading

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *