Where to Stay in Morocco: Best Riads, Hotels & Desert Camps

Q: Do guesthouses in Morocco have kitchens?

Guesthouses, or maisons d’hôtes, usually don’t offer self-catering kitchens for guests. Meals are typically prepared by the staff and served family-style, which is part of the charm. If cooking your own meals is important, a rental apartment might suit you better, though these aren’t regulated like official accommodations.

by Nancy Yee | Aug 13, 2025 | Morocco Travel Tips | 0 comments

A typical courtyard in a Moroccan riad with a fountain in the middle, outdoor seating around, and doors leading to private rooms all around.

When planning trips for our guests, one of the most common questions we get is: “Where to stay in Morocco?” And it’s for good reason: your accommodation shapes your entire experience. Over the years, we’ve guided guests through the lively medinas of Marrakech, the serene Atlas Mountains, and the vast Sahara Desert, and we’ve learned that choosing the right place to stay is just as important as choosing the destination itself.

Morocco offers a dizzying variety of accommodations, each with its own vibe, level of comfort, and connection to the local culture. From opulent riads in the heart of the medina to luxurious desert camps under the stars and rustic guesthouses in the mountains, the choices are abundant and can be overwhelming. Pick the right style, and your trip becomes a story you’ll never forget. Pick the wrong one, and you may feel like you never left the tourist bubble.

In this guide, we break down the main accommodation styles in Morocco and give you a few recommendations for each, so that you can choose the perfect stay with confidence.

A woman in a long green dress walking through a green gate into a traditional Moroccan riad during her stay in Morocco.

Moroccan Riads: Sleep Like Royalty

If you’ve ever scrolled Instagram for Moroccan inspiration, chances are you’ve seen a dreamy riad. Picture a quiet courtyard with orange trees, a trickling fountain, and hand-painted tiles that make you want to move in forever. That’s a riad. These are traditional Moroccan homes, often former mansions of wealthy families, designed around an interior garden or courtyard.

Most riads are found in the medinas of cities like Marrakech and Fes. From the outside, you might walk right past without noticing them. Riads are inward-facing, private sanctuaries hidden behind heavy doors. You’ll typically get a key or door code, and entry feels like stepping into a secret world. Once inside, the noise of the medina fades, replaced by birdsong, the splash of a fountain, or maybe soft Arabic music in the background.

Inside a typical Moroccan riad with a courtyard in the middle and balconies on the second floor with traditional Moroccan decorations.

Modern riads range from intimate budget-friendly stays to high-end boutique escapes with spas, rooftop terraces, and plunge pools. They’re all about personal service: you’ll probably meet the manager or owner during your stay, and staff will learn your breakfast preferences by day two. Unlike hotels, there aren’t hallways to roam or anonymous lobbies. A riad stay is cozy, private, and very Moroccan.

Want to dive deeper into what makes these stays so special? Check out our full guide: What is a Riad?

Traveler Tip: Riads in Marrakech often provide airport pickups. This is not just a luxury; it can save you from dragging your luggage through a maze of alleys where Google Maps occasionally throws in the towel.

Best Riads in Morocco for an Authentic Stay:

Riad Adore (Marrakech) – A chic, tranquil hideaway blending contemporary elegance with traditional Moroccan charm.

Riad Lyon Mogodor (Essaouira) – A breezy riad with an ocean-inspired vibe, ideal for winding down in coastal Essaouira.

Riad Laaroussa (Fes) – A beautifully restored riad with stunning rooftop views and an intimate spa; a true Fes classic.

Inside one of the rooms at Riad Laaroussa, one of our favorite places to stay in Fes, with tiled floor, fireplace, living-room seating and a king-size bed.

Guesthouses: Your Home in the Mountains

In rural Morocco, you’ll often hear the term maison d’hôtes (guesthouse). These feel like the countryside cousins of riads. While they share a similar cozy vibe, they’re usually in rural areas, like the Atlas Mountains, coastal villages, or the outskirts of desert towns.

Guesthouses often have a “home-cooked” charm. Breakfast might be fresh bread and homemade jam served on a sunny terrace. Dinner could be a slow-cooked tagine prepared by a local woman who comes in just for the evening meal. You won’t typically find spas, but a swimming pool with mountain or garden views is common.

The swimming pool at Bab el Oued at night, with sun beds and chair spread among palm trees.

These stays are perfect if you’re seeking calm and authenticity. You’re more likely to be surrounded by farmland, palm groves, or mountain trails than by market stalls and taxis. The pace is slow, the Wi-Fi can be slower, but the connection to local life is unbeatable.

Traveler Tip: Ask in advance about heating if you’re staying in the mountains during winter. Morocco’s sun is strong by day, but nights can surprise you.

Charming Moroccan Guesthouse Off the Beaten Path:

Bab El Oued (Draa Valley) – A serene, eco-friendly retreat in the lush Draa Valley, offering solar-powered lodges, organic farm-to-table dining, and an authentic connection to Berber oasis life.

Inside a room at Bab El Oued, our favorite Moroccan guesthouse with colorful interior design and a welcoming vibe.

Moroccan Kasbahs: Sleep in History

Nothing says “I’m in Morocco” quite like spending a night in a kasbah. These are traditional earthen fortresses, some centuries old, originally built to defend families or entire villages (a cluster of kasbahs is called a ksar).

Many kasbahs in southern Morocco and near the Sahara have been restored into unique guest accommodations. This means thick mud-brick walls, watchtowers, and wide terraces with endless desert or mountain views. Staying here feels both royal and rooted in history.

Inside a cozy room in Kasbah Angour with colorful rugs and an open door leading to a balcony with views of the kasbah.

Kasbahs range from ultra-luxury, like Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot near the Atlas Mountains, to family-run spots with just a few charming rooms. Either way, they usually offer spectacular sunset views, cool interiors even in the heat, and a deep sense of place.

Traveler Tip: Choose a kasbah with a rooftop terrace. Sunrise and sunset in these remote locations are nothing short of magical.

Historic Kasbahs in Morocco You Can Stay In:

Kasbah Tebi (Ait Ben Haddou) – An authentic stay within the UNESCO-listed ksar, candlelit and atmospheric.

Kasbah Angour (High Atlas Mountains) – Offers Berber architecture, lush gardens, and panoramic views of the Atlas.

Kasbah Azul (Draa Valley) – A beautiful kasbah surrounded by palm groves and a relaxing pool oasis.

The swimming pool at Kasbah Azul with the view of the medieval kasbah in the background, set among palm trees.

Hotels in Morocco: Modern Comfort and Standardization

Moroccan hotels come in two main flavors: international chains with familiar layouts and Moroccan-owned properties that may feel more personal. Hotels typically have elevators, pools, spas, and one or more restaurants. They’re convenient and predictable, but often less charming than a riad, guesthouse, or kasbah.

If you’re someone who loves room service at midnight, Wi-Fi, or a fully stocked minibar, a hotel might be your safe bet. Just know that the experience is less “you’re in Morocco” and more “you could be anywhere.” Some concierge desks are also a little too eager to sell tours, often pointing guests toward the most commercial activities for commission, like Agafay, the so-called “desert” near Marrakech that’s more gravel than dunes. It’s always best to book your tours and accommodations together through a trusted local operator like Open Doors Morocco, who ensures authentic experiences that reflect real Moroccan culture. Here’s why travelers choose us for their Morocco journey.

A waiter in a traditional Moroccan clothing carrying a tray with drinks through the decorated halls of Royal Mansour, one of our favorite places to stay in Marrakech.

Traveler Tip: If you really want to stay at a hotel, we can help you pick the right one. There are exceptions, mainly in the form of boutique hotels, that combine the best of both worlds: modern comfort with a personal touch.

Top Hotels in Morocco for Comfort and Convenience:

Royal Mansour (Marrakech) – A world‑class hotel composed of private riads, where luxury meets Moroccan artistry.

Palais Amani (Fes) – A restored palace with spacious rooms, lush gardens, and elegant service.

The terrace at Palais Amani at sunset, with tables set for dinner and the view of the city of Fes in the background.

Moroccan Desert Camps: Sleep Under the Stars

If Morocco has one bucket-list experience, it’s a night in the Sahara Desert. Imagine camel trekking into rolling dunes, watching the sky turn shades of pink and gold, and then sitting around a campfire as traditional music plays. Welcome to the desert camp experience.

Camps range from rustic to downright luxurious. At the top end, you’ll get a spacious tent with a private ensuite bathroom, hot showers, real beds, and even air conditioning or heating. Dinner is usually a multi-course Moroccan meal served under the stars, and in the morning, the sunrise over the dunes will ruin you for hotel wake-up calls forever. Some desert camps rival five-star hotels in comfort and style – for more inspiration, see our guide to luxury stays in Morocco.

If you were wondering where to stay in Morocco, desert camps are a one-of-a-kind experience. The Luxury Camp in Merzouga is one of our favorite ones, with comfortable tents set right in between the dunes.

We don’t book the low-end camps with shared bathrooms. After too many “yikes” stories, we stick to comfortable, well-run camps where you can enjoy the adventure without sacrificing hygiene or sleep.

Traveler Tip: The best camps are only accessible by 4×4 or camel. If your camp says you can drive your rental car to the door, the experience probably isn’t what you’re imagining.

Unforgettable Desert Camps in Morocco:

White Camel Accacia (Merzouga) – Sleek luxury tents with private facilities, blending modern comfort with desert magic.

Merzouga Luxury Camp (Merzouga) – Deluxe tents with ensuite bathrooms and starlit dining by the dunes.

Inside a luxury tent in the dessert, with king-size bed, private bathroom and a seating facing a huge window with views of the desert.

A Note on Airbnb in Morocco

You might see plenty of Airbnbs in Morocco, but it’s worth a caution: the platform isn’t strictly regulated here. Listings aren’t always as advertised, and guest support is limited if things go wrong. While some properties are gems, we recommend booking through reputable riads, hotels, or with a trusted tour operator for peace of mind.

How to Choose Where to Stay in Morocco

So, how do you pick your perfect Moroccan stay? Start by asking yourself what kind of experience you want:

Do you want to immerse yourself in medina life? Pick a riad.
Do you crave countryside calm or mountain views? Go for a guesthouse.
Do you want history and drama in your stay? Sleep in a kasbah.
Do you want predictability and modern comfort? Stick to hotels.
Do you dream of campfires and camel caravans? Head to a desert camp.

Many travelers combine a few accommodation styles to get the full Moroccan experience. A night under the stars, a few days in a medina riad, and a kasbah stop in the mountains can create a trip that’s both comfortable and unforgettable. And we can help you plan all of that! At Open Doors Morocco, we don’t just book rooms – we craft full itineraries that pair each destination with the perfect stay.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Stay in Morocco?

Choosing where to stay in Morocco can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. At Open Doors Morocco, we handpick accommodations that match your style, comfort level, and sense of adventure. Booking through us comes with an added bonus: special rates from our trusted partners, so you can enjoy top-quality stays with exceptional value.

Let us design a trip that’s as unique as you are, with handpicked stays and authentic experiences you won’t find online. Contact Open Doors Morocco today and start planning the journey of a lifetime.

A female traveler walking on a rug out of a ten in a luxury Moroccan desert camp, one of he best places where to stay in Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Morocco

What part of Marrakech should I stay in?

Most visitors choose to stay in the medina, the historic old city, for its lively souks, street life, and easy access to landmarks. Riads here offer the classic Marrakech experience, with courtyards and rooftop views. If you prefer a quieter stay with more space and easy taxi access, look for hotels or guesthouses in Gueliz or Hivernage, the modern districts.

Do you tip riad staff in Morocco?

Yes, tipping is appreciated and common. In riads, staff members often go above and beyond, preparing meals, arranging excursions, or helping with luggage. A tip of 20–50 MAD per day for the housekeeping team and a larger tip (around 100–200 MAD) for exceptional service at the end of your stay is customary. We also recommend ensuring that the women “behind the scenes,” such as housekeepers and cooks, receive tips. Often, tips go only to those in the reception.

Can unmarried couples stay together in Morocco?

Foreign unmarried couples can stay together without issue. Hotels, riads, and guesthouses are used to international travelers and will not ask for marriage certificates. However, local Moroccan couples (where one or both are Moroccan) will face restrictions due to local law.

Can you drink alcohol in a riad or hotel in Morocco?

Many riads and hotels serve alcohol, especially those catering to international guests. In some smaller or family‑run riads, alcohol might not be available, but you can sometimes bring your own bottle discreetly. Luxury hotels and many high‑end riads have a bar or wine service available.

What is the dress code for a riad or hotel in Morocco?

There’s no formal dress code inside riads or hotels. Comfortable, casual clothing is fine. Swimwear is acceptable by the pool or in spa areas, but it’s polite to cover up when walking through common spaces. Outside the property, modest clothing is recommended to respect local culture.

Is staying in a Moroccan riad worth it?

Absolutely. Riads offer a more intimate and authentic experience than standard hotels. You’ll enjoy personalized service, stunning courtyards, and the feeling of living in a piece of history. Many guests say their riad stay becomes the highlight of their trip to Morocco.

Do guesthouses in Morocco have kitchens?

Guesthouses, or maisons d’hôtes, usually don’t offer self‑catering kitchens for guests. Meals are typically prepared by the staff and served family‑style, which is part of the charm. If cooking your own meals is important, a rental apartment might suit you better, though these aren’t regulated like official accommodations.