If you are curious about North Africa, Morocco is one of the most fascinating places you can explore. It blends ancient traditions with modern energy, and every corner of the country offers a story. To help you understand what makes it stand out, here are some of the most interesting Morocco facts that reveal its culture, history, geography, and daily life.
Quick Morocco Facts You Need to Know
Morocco sits at the geographic and cultural crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It is a country of dazzling contrasts, from the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the swirling dunes of the Sahara, and from the ancient medinas of Fez to the cosmopolitan chic of Casablanca. If you are in a hurry, let’s have some quick Morocco facts.
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Country | Morocco |
| Capital | Rabat |
| Largest City | Casablanca |
| Population | About 38 million |
| Official Languages | Arabic and Amazigh |
| Currency | Moroccan Dirham (MAD) |
| Region | North Africa |
| Government | Constitutional monarchy |
| Highest Peak | Mount Toubkal, 4,167 meters |
| Major Attractions | Marrakech, Fez, Sahara Desert, Chefchaouen, Atlas Mountains |
15 Unique Morocco Facts 1. It Has Two Coastlines
Unlike many African countries, Morocco is strategically bordered by two different coastlines: the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. This duality gives it access to different trade routes, fishing industries, and climatic zones.
2. Home to North Africa’s Tallest Peak
The Atlas Mountains run through the spine of the country, acting as a massive climatic barrier that separates the temperate coastal regions from the arid Sahara Desert. The highest peak in the range, Jebel Toubkal, stands at $4,167$ meters (13,671 feet) and is the highest mountain in North Africa, attracting serious mountaineers.
3. The Sahara Covers Almost Half the Country
The famous Sahara Desert starts in southern Morocco, covering a vast expanse of its territory. The image of the sweeping dunes (called Ergs) is often associated with Merzouga, which serves as a major gateway for camel treks and desert expeditions.
4. Goats Are Famous for Climbing Trees
One of Morocco’s most bizarre sights is goats climbing the native Argan trees. They do this to eat the fruit, which contains the nut used to make precious Argan oil. They are the only goats in the world known to possess this strange habit, making the spectacle a unique sight in the Souss region. You Need to Know
5. Mint Tea is the National Drink of Hospitality
Moroccan mint tea, or Atay, is the absolute cornerstone of Moroccan hospitality. It is made from green tea, fresh mint leaves, and copious amounts of sugar. Offering tea is a non-negotiable ritual, and refusing a cup is considered deeply impolite. It is ceremonially poured from a high distance to create foam.
6. The Country Is Home to the Blue Pearl of North Africa
Chefchaouen is famous for its blue-painted streets. The color is said to keep mosquitoes away, reflect the sky, and represent spirituality. Whatever the reason, it has become one of the most photographed towns on earth.
In the “Red City” of Marrakech, all buildings within the old city walls are required to be painted a shade of ochre red.
7. Friday is Couscous Day
Couscous, the traditional semolina dish, is eaten year-round, but it is a special Friday tradition to eat it for lunch after midday prayers. The dish is usually prepared slowly in a couscoussier (a specialized steamer pot) and topped with slow-cooked vegetables and meat.
8. The Atlas Mountains Cut Through the Entire Country
The Atlas range runs for more than 2,000 kilometers. It includes the High Atlas, Middle Atlas, and Anti Atlas. This region has small villages, river valleys, and North Africa’s highest peak, Toubkal.
9. Morocco Has One of the Largest Deserts in the World
The Sahara covers much of eastern Morocco. Travelers visit to ride camels, watch star-filled skies, and sleep in desert camps surrounded by golden dunes.
10. The Medina of Fez Is a UNESCO Treasure
Fez el Bali is one of the biggest medieval cities still standing. Its maze-like streets contain thousands of shops, historic mosques, and the world’s oldest continually operating university, Al Qarawiyyin.
11. You Can Ski in Winter
Ifrane and Oukaïmeden offer snow in the colder months. Seeing snow-covered slopes near the Sahara surprises many visitors, but it is one of the more unusual and interesting Morocco facts.
12. Moroccan Cuisine Is a Flavor Powerhouse
Couscous, tagine, rfissa, pastilla, and harira are staples. The food mixes sweet and savory touches, warm spices, olives, preserved lemons, and slow cooking techniques passed down for centuries.
13. Casablanca Is the Economic Capital
While Rabat is the political capital, Casablanca is the business hub. It is also home to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with a minaret over 200 meters tall.
14. Morocco Produces Argan Oil
Argan trees grow naturally in southwestern Morocco. The oil is produced by hand and used in both cooking and cosmetics. In some areas goats climb the trees to eat the fruit, which is a tourist favorite to witness.
15. The Country Has a Long History of Film Production
Ouarzazate is called the Hollywood of Africa. Movies such as Gladiator, The Mummy and scenes from Game of Thrones were shot there. The desert landscape makes it perfect for epic sets.
16. Morocco Is Known for Its Traditional Hammams
A hammam is a steam bath where people go to scrub, cleanse, and relax. It is both a wellness ritual and a social routine across the country.
17. The Currency Is the Moroccan Dirham
Travelers often find Morocco reasonably affordable compared to many destinations. The dirham keeps daily expenses like transport and food accessible.
18. Jellabas and Kaftans Are Everyday Fashion
You will often see people wearing long, flowing garments in bright colors or earth tones. These outfits are comfortable in the heat and reflect deep cultural roots.
19. Morocco Has Strong Craft Traditions
Handmade carpets, metalwork, ceramics, and leather goods are produced using skills passed down through families. Many artisans work in cooperatives to protect their craft.
20. Morocco Is One of the Oldest Recognized Nations
It became a unified kingdom in the year 788. Many of its traditions and institutions trace back more than a thousand years.
Curious by nature, storyteller by choice. I run Interesting Facts to bring you mind-blowing stories, hidden truths, and fascinating insights from around the globe. If it makes you say “Wow, I never knew that!”—my job is done.
Laiba Hanif is a professional fact-finder and the writer behind “Interesting Facts.” Fueled by a degree in Anthropology and over five years of experience unearthing hidden truths, she specializes in digging up the most bizarre, fascinating, and mind-bending tidbits the world has to offer. She’s here to prove that reality is stranger—and more amazing—than fiction.
