Things You Must Know Before Visiting Mauritius

1. English is the Official Language

The three main languages are English, French, and Creole. English is the official language, but the majority language used is French-Mauritius Creole, which was accurate on our trip. Many hotel employees also speak German, Italian, and Spanish. If you plan on venturing outside the resorts and popular tourist attractions, learning some basic French will help you.

Most Mauritians are bilingual, and many are skilled in three or four languages, making them popular cruise ship recruits. They also speak Mandarin, Bhojpouri, Tamil, Hindi, and Urdu.

2. It’s Far! (From the US)

If you’re visiting Mauritius from the US, be prepared for two twelve-hour flights, especially from the west coast. Give yourself an extended layover (at least 6 hours) to clear customs and stretch your legs. You can make it even longer if you want a rest day or to visit a layover city. We planned to walk around Paris on our layover, but our flights got delayed.

3. Who’s Visiting Mauritius

Because of Mauritius’ location, we noticed most tourists were Europeans. France, the UK, Germany, and Spain bring the most tourists, followed by China.

When we visited, we got a few comments asking if we were from China. The borders have been closed because of the pandemic, so the Mauritians were excited that we might be among the Chinese tourists starting to visit again.

4. Bring your Benjamins

Mauritius isn’t considered a budget destination. Most people visit Mauritius for luxury, and they pay for it. Although you can travel here on a budget, there are better destinations if you’re looking for an affordable beach vacation.

5. Their Currency is the Mauritian Rupee

They use the Mauritian Rupee, and roughly USD 1 = MUR 46.29.

We only needed cash for tips and street vendors. Other spots took credit cards. You can exchange currencies at the airport and most hotels or withdraw from an ATM. If you withdraw from an ATM, we heard you should limit each transaction to MUR15,000. Otherwise, the machines might get jammed.

6. Tipping Is Not Mandatory but Appreciated

Tipping is not mandatory in Mauritius. Here is a quick guideline if you are looking to tip for exceptional service: Spas (5-10%), Tour guides (10%), Taxis (100-200 Rps), Hotels (100 MUR), and Restaurants (10-15%).

7. Visiting Mauritius during High and Low Seasons

Temperatures are warm all year, making it a year-round destination. The water temps stay between 71-80°F (22-27°C).

The high season is during their summers (October-April) and winters (May-September). During peak season, you should book hotels three months in advance and activities/restaurants around one week before. Shoulder season runs March-April and September-October.

• Summers (Oct-Apr) – The mean temperature in the summer is 76°F (24.7°C). Dec to Mar are the wettest months. Thunderstorms are common but pass. During our December visit, the waterfalls were dry (usually late winter/early Summer) but had been dryer than average. Once the rain starts in Dec/Jan, the rivers and falls fill back up.
• Winters (May-Sep) – The mean temperature in the winter is 70°F (21°C). Winter is windier and the best time to visit if you like mild temperatures and sports that require wind, like kitesurfing.

Local Tip: They usually get a cyclone each season, and every ten or so years, it will hit the island directly. The last big one was in 1992, so locals have been expecting one any time now.

8. Places Close Early

Many places closed earlier than expected, and many businesses closed for holidays and Sundays. Also, certain restaurants have random days they aren’t open.

9. Renting a Car vs. Getting a Taxi

Renting an (automatic) car is an option on the island, and you don’t need an international driver’s license. Just remember they drive on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting.

Roads outside the city are easy to navigate and not too crowded, but driving in a city can be stressful. Navigating via google maps worked well going to popular attractions, and the roads were in good condition compared to other countries we’ve explored. Speed limits are usually around 40 kph (25 mph) in towns, 60 kph (40 mph) outside of them, and 110 kph (68 mph) on the freeway.

Taxi costs vary and are not regulated. For example, from Port Louis to Flic n Flac, it can cost between MUR 800 and MUR 1,000. Be wary of taxi drivers, since some are affiliated with shops they will try to take you to for “a good deal” to receive a cut of profits. But now that I think about it, it’s similar to some bloggers and influencers too.

10. Traffic Can Get Crazy

It can take 1-2 hrs to get from one side of the island to the other. Keep that in mind when you plan activities or where you’re visiting. We had a lot of early days since we had to add in the travel time.

Traffic on the island starts around 8 am and 4 pm. Although we didn’t see traffic, they kept telling us how bad traffic was, so we always left earlier or way later to avoid it.

Local Tip: If you booked a hotel with breakfast but have an early activity, you will most likely miss breakfast. Ask for a to-go bag.

11. Tap Water is Technically Safe

Locals drink tap water, but it isn’t recommended for visitors. Regardless of safe drinking water, we pack this self-cleaning water bottle (see all our favorite water bottles for travel here) on all our trips to fill up at the hotel or airport.

See More: The Best Travel Water Bottle Tested on the Road

12. Mauritius has a lot of history, and Sugar is a Big part of it

Most of the fields in Mauritius are sugarcane fields, and sugarcane farms still dominate 70% of the land. One of the best places to learn more about the history of sugarcane in Mauritius is Sugar World (L’Aventure de Sucre). Here, you can also do a sugar tasting and a rum tasting.

Due to the sugar industry, after slavery was abolished, the British tested out indentured labor and spread it to the rest of the world due to their success. You can learn more about that at Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site, the remains of an Immigration Depot built in 1849.

Did you know the now-extinct Dodo bird is also from Mauritius? You’ll find them on souvenirs and branding all over the island.

13. Souvenirs

• Sugar from L’Aventure du Sucre – we bought several for friends back home that love baking or drinking coffee.
• Phoenix is the island’s most popular local beer. We never check our bags, but you can bring back some local beer or liquor if you do.
• Local Rum or Fruit Wines – Most cocktails are made with rum since they source from local rhumeries. There aren’t local grape wines, but you can find local fruit wines.

14. Scared of Bats?

The fruit bats, aka Mauritian flying fox, are among the largest bats and can reach a wingspan of 31 in (80 cm). We saw them often, flying around or on palm trees. If you’re scared of bats, you may want to look away. We’re not typically afraid of bats, but they were the biggest we’ve seen in the wild, so I can see them being intimidating.

15. World Class Diving Over Snorkeling

We weren’t impressed with the snorkeling at the reefs, but Mauritius has world-class diving. There are around 50 dive sites across the island. If we could have a do-over, we would have taken a PADI refresher course and booked some diving excursions instead.

Local Tip: Don’t forget coral-safe sunscreen. We were disappointed by all the bleached coral we saw.

16. The underwater Waterfall can only be Seen from a Helicopter

The underwater waterfall, an optical illusion, is a famous landmark you must see while visiting Mauritius. It can only be seen via helicopter, which is always weather dependent. Plan your ride early in your visit so that if it gets canceled, you’ll have plenty of time to reschedule.

17. Don’t Limit Yourself to the Resorts

Mauritius offers much more than just incredible beaches. Venture inland to see diverse landscapes, tea farms, temples, hikes, and more. Check our post for the best things to do when you’re ready to plan your trip.

See More: 15 Best Things to Do in Mauritus + How to Plan the Perfect Vacation

Planning Checklist

Are you planning on visiting Mauritius in the near future? Have you been already? Are there any tips that we need to add?

Where is Mauritius?

You’re way ahead of us if you already know where Mauritius is. We learned about the country as we started planning our trip. Mauritius is located off of the southeastern African coast in the Indian Ocean and is made up of 16 islands and islets. They have a main island (also called Mauritius) plus Rodrigues, Agalega, and St Brandon. Because of how far it is from the US, we noticed it was most popular among Europeans. France, UK, Germany, and Spain bring the most tourists. Followed by China.

Time Difference: It is +4 hours Greenwich Mean Time (12-hour difference from PST)

15 Best Things to Do in Mauritius

1. Chamarel Waterfall

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Fees: MUR500 (includes 7 Colored Earth)

The Chamarel Waterfall is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius at roughly 100 meters or 328 feet high. You can see the waterfall from two viewpoints, one right at the parking lot and another up a set of stairs.

If you’re looking for something even more adventurous, you can abseil down the sheer cliff. Or there is also a hike that lets you explore the valley and the foot of the falls, where you can jump in the water.

Local Tip: If you visit mid to late winter or early summer, the waterfall will be small and look like multiple streams. It flows at its full force around May.

2. Chamarel 7 Colored Earth

7 Colored Earth Road, Chamarel, Mauritius, map

Fees: MUR500 (includes Chamarel Waterfall)

The Seven Colored Earth at Chamarel is one of the most popular landmarks in Mauritius that reminded us of the Painted Hills in Oregon. A fence protects the perimeter of this geological formation, and you can see hints of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. You can walk around the path to get different vantage points or enjoy a drink and snack at the cafe with seats overlooking it.

People crop their photos, so it’s hard to see the scale, but the area was way smaller than we expected.

Local Tip: There is a small enclosure where you can see Aldabra Tortoises, the second largest species in the world.

See More: The Ultimate Guide to the Painted Hills Oregon

3. Helicopter Tour Over an Underwater Waterfall

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Fees: MUR40,000 for 4 from Avalon + MUR2,000 Landing Fee

Have you seen an underwater waterfall? Okay, this one is an optical illusion but is still beautiful nonetheless. You can only see it by helicopter at a specific angle. We did a 30-minute helicopter tour, which gave us time to make a few passes at the Underwater Waterfall. Then we got an aerial view of the 7 Colored Earth, Black River Gorge National Park, and Grand Bassin.

The chopper also had windows we could open to shoot photos without glare! Plus, they did a great job keeping all the windows clean and clear.

Booking the tour, however, was confusing. There are only a handful of helipads on the island, and you can only use them if you’re a guest of the specific hotel with the helipad. We had to contact Avalon Golf Estates separately to get permission to fly out of there and then pay a MUR2000 fee. This was also not very straightforward.

If you’re looking to book a helicopter tour, just contact Air Mauritius via email immediately. Tell them what you’re interested in doing and where you’re staying. Then have them help you figure out the details. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions or ask for help if you need it. It was the most frustrating excursion to plan, but the views were worth it.

Photo Tip: If you want serious filming, you can request a doors-off helicopter tour. It costs more and requires other approvals through the government, but they can walk you through those details too.

4. Boat Tour for Fishing, dolphin Viewing, or swimming with Wild Dolphins

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Fee: MUR15,000-18,000 for a Private Tour with Lunch
Contact: Jean Michel +230 5 491 2028

Our local guide was Jean Michel. Whenever possible, we like to support local vs. foreign tour companies. Jean Michel is from Tamarin, a fishing village, and comes from at least three generations of fishermen. He knew the area well. His son also came along to help. They can take you fishing or dolphin watching, and it’s up to you if you want to snorkel.

Dolphin pods of 20+ frequent Tamarin, where they rest and sleep before going to the deep sea to hunt for food. There are two different types of dolphins here. Bottlenose dolphins are the most common and are 6-13 feet long. Spinner Dolphins are rarer and are 4-8 feet long.

The experience felt similar to a safari. All the other boats and kayakers followed the pod around, and their guests jumped in after them. Jean Michel was great because he read where the pods were heading and dropped us off further ahead of them so we could watch them pass us (though they were swimming away from the other boats)

Swimming with wild dolphins was not as ethical as we had hoped. Our guide was better about giving them space, but there were many moments we felt uneasy watching all the boats circle the pod closely. There may be an ethical way to watch and swim with dolphins (from a distance of 50 yds with no guarantee that they will swim near you), but it gets dicey whenever humans and money get involved. We’re not here to tell you what to do but to give you enough info to make your own decisions.

5. Aapravasi Ghat – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ex-DWC Building, 1 Quay St, Port Louis, Mauritius, map

Fee: Free

The Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site is the remains of an Immigration Depot built in 1849. It is where the British tested out indentured labor and spread it to the rest of the world due to their success. The site has a museum you can walk through with tons of info and historical pieces. You can also walk the first steps indentured laborers had to walk when they arrived on shore.

Local Tip: Near the end of the museum, where there is a model scale of the original Immigration Depot, check out the touch screens. It will show present-day Aapravasi Ghat and allow you to overlay what the historical site looked like.

6. Snorkel or Dive at Blue Bay Marine Park

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Since the island is known for its coral which surrounds the majority of its coast, we decided to go on a snorkeling outing. Overall, it was just okay snorkeling. There was a lot of wildlife and fish swimming around, but most of the coral we saw was already bleached.

From our research, you must dive to see the beautiful coral. We booked our trip through GetYourGuide. The guide and service were great, but they did not mention that we needed to bring our own gear. We had our own gear, but Kim and Rob did not. Our guides were kind enough to find us some masks from another boat but not fins.

Pro Tip: We both have AquaLung Snorkel Masks and Fins and love them. We always bring a mask to ensure it fits and doesn’t leak. The fins come with us if we have space. Another couple had full-face snorkel masks that I wanted to try. Also, don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard to protect you from the sun.

Photo Tip: Don’t forget to bring a waterproof case for your phone or camera. If you don’t want to snorkel, you can stick the camera in the water from the boat.

See More: How to Pack for a Snorkeling Trip

7. L’Aventure de Sucre / Sugar World

B18 Pamplemousses MU, Pamplemousses 21001, Mauritius, map

Fee: MUR575

Chances are that most of the fields you see in Mauritius are full of sugar cane. Sugarcane farms dominate 70% of the land on the island. Although only three main companies handle all of it now, there is a ton of history in how sugarcane plantations shaped Mauritius.

The museum goes into Mauritius’s history and sugarcane’s role in it. We went through it quickly, but you should allot between 45 to 120 minutes, depending on how much you read. They also have an app that helps you navigate the museum.

At the end of the museum, you can taste sugar and rum. Edible souvenirs are our favorite, so we picked up a few bags of sugar for our friends. They don’t add any flavor, but it was so fascinating how different each sugar tasted depending on their process.

They also have a restaurant where we had our first meal after landing. The meal was one of our favorites from the entire week, made with fresh ingredients and beautifully presented.

Local Tip: They have cane cutting experience on Wednesdays at 10:30 AM for MUR600, where you learn how to cut the cane and make delicious cocktails with its juice.

8. Bois Cheri Tea Factory Tour

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Fees: MUR525 for the Tour, MUR2400 includes Lunch

Bois Cheri is the largest tea producer in Mauritius, and the plantation dates back to 1892. The tour takes you through how tea is made, from the 50-60 kilos of tea each person picks a day to the bagging portion of the dried leaves. We loved smelling all the aromas of the factory.

Plus, we had the pleasure of being shown around by Azaad, who has been working at the factory since he was 14. He began by packing vanilla tea by hand, then later came up with the idea for the guided tour, which has been running for 25 years. He is retired now but still comes back to the factory from time to time.

Afterward, you can head to their restaurant and tea lounge, where you can do a tea tasting or grab a bite to eat. You may even spot some boars and chickens roaming the property.

Local Tip: The restaurant and factory are a short distance away from each other. It’s walkable, but ideally, you take your car over. If you have a driver, be sure they know to be ready for you after the tour.

9. Black River Gorge National Park

B103 – Plaine Champagne Road, Mauritius, map

Fees: Free (Open 6 AM to 6 PM)

Black River Gorges National Park comprises humid forests, drier lowlands, and marshy heathland. There are 60km of trails to explore and a few different viewpoints:

• Alexandra Falls Viewpoint – see the cloud forest of Mt Cocotte and Alexandra Falls (best after monsoon season)
• Gorges Viewpoint (photo below) – one of the best views on the island (you can often find monkeys in this area)
• Macchabée Viewpoint – great views where some of the most popular trails meet

Local Tip: If you visit early morning, the park is empty! We arrived around 7:45 AM and had the whole place to ourselves.

10. Le Morne Brabant Hike

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Fee: Free unless you hire a guide

We typically hike on our travels, but on this trip, we decided to focus more on water activities and ended up seeing Le Morne Brabant from the helicopter.

The hike up Le Morne Brabant is one of the most popular on the island but isn’t easy. The hike is roughly 4.4 miles / 7 km long, but you will also be hiking from sea level to 1640 feet / 500 m, and most of this elevation change happens in the second half of the hike. On average, the hike takes 3-4 hours.

They used to require a guide, but we’ve read accounts of people doing it on their own. Make sure you are confident in your hiking ability, as portions are exposed and require scrambling. Hiring a guide makes the most sense if you have any reservations about your abilities.

Le Morne Brabant is the second UNESCO Heritage Site on Mauritius and is a symbol of freedom and hope and a reminder of the world’s darkest practices. Runaway slaves used Le Morne Brabant as a hideaway to escape their masters. According to a legend, when slavery was abolished in 1835, policemen were sent to Le Morne Brabant to break the news. Unfortunately, the slaves assumed they were getting arrested, so they climbed to the top of the mountain and jumped to their deaths.

Local Tip: Weather can change quickly at any point in the hike. If it starts raining, don’t panic. Stay put and hunker down. Most storms will pass through, and it will be sunny again.

See More: 25 Best Hikes in the World to Put on Your Bucket List

11. Central Market, Port Louis

9 Corderie St, Port Louis, Mauritius, map

The Central Market, aka the Bazaar of Port Louis, is a good spot to pick up fresh produce, local eats, and gifts. They have clothes, spices, handmade crafts, and more. The market is divided into different sections and is relatively easy to navigate.

Local Tip: Have cash ready for the market and smaller bills, so it’s easier to have exact change. Also, eat at Wapalapam, within walking distance from Central Market.

See More: 25 Best Markets in the World to Put On Your Bucket List

12. Le Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis

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Le Caudan Waterfront is a waterfront shopping district with a bit of everything. We made a brief stop to look at it, but you can find a movie theater, many shops, plenty of food options, Caudan Arts Centre, and the Blue Penny Museum. If you’re looking for art, check out the Artists Corner, where you’ll find pieces on display and see artists at work. There’s even a casino if you want to try your luck.

13. Grand Bassin / Ganga Talao

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Fee: Free (Donations Accepted)

Grand Bassin, or Ganga Talao, is a popular pilgrimage because it is the largest outside India. Thousands of people visit the site annually in late January/early February. In 1972, a priest from India brought sacred water from the Ganges and poured the holy water into the lake.

When visiting, it’s hard to miss the massive statues, including the Grand Bassin Shiva statue that stands 108 ft tall. It’s the third-highest Shiva in the world. There are multiple areas to explore, and our driver told us monkeys frequent the temple on top of the hill.

Note: Please also pay attention to the signage and take your shoes off when entering the Lake complex and temples. The lake is considered sacred, so do not feed the fish and eel.

14. Citadelle / Fort Adelaide

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Fee: Free

We stopped by the Citadelle or Fort Adelaide to get panoramic views of Port Louis.

The fortress began construction in 1930 but wasn’t completed for another ten years. It was initially built to fortify the defense of Port Louis but was never used for that reason.

Local Tip: You can see Champ de Mars Racecourse from the Citadelle, the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere and the second oldest in the world.

15. Maheswarnath Mandir aka Tiolet Shivala Hindu Temple in Triolet Village

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Fee: Free (Donations Accepted)

Maheswarnath Mandir, known locally as Grand Shivala Triolet, is a Hindu temple known for its association with the first pilgrimage to Ganga Talao. It is the biggest and one of the old temples on the island, founded in 1888. The skinny cat there was very sweet!

Local Tip: Please also pay attention to the signage and take your shoes off when entering the temples.

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Mauritius? Are there things to do in Mauritius we are missing?

TLDR

Location – Morocco is located in North Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, with Algeria to the east and Western Sahara to the south. Its food is unique due to its rich blend of Berber, Arab, and French influences, using bold spices like saffron, cumin, and cinnamon.

Our Fave Foods – Tagine, Bastilla, Khobz, Mint Tea, Brochettes, Tanjia, Shebakia

21 Moroccan Foods to Try While Visiting Morocco

1. Tagine

We had tagine multiple times while in Morocco. It’s a clay cooking pot with a conical lid with multiple types of dishes slow cooked inside (beef, lamb, chicken, veggies, etc). You can get it practically anywhere, at roadside stops, cafés, and nicer restaurants.

We want to try making this at home, anyone have a good recipe?

Restaurants: L’ibzar, Marrakech | L’Amandier Palais Faraj, Fes

Try it at Home: 10 Tagine Recipes You Have to Try

2. Couscous (National Dish of Morocco)

Couscous is originally from Morocco and typically served with meat or vegetable stew. Traditionally, they prepare couscous on the Muslim holy day (Friday) and for special occasions, but you can find it at most restaurants and cafes.

Restaurants: Cafe Clock, Fes | Restaurant Naima, Marrakech

Try it at Home: Moroccan Couscous Recipe

3. Zalouk

Zalouk (also spelled zaalouk) is a common side dish and typically served with crusty bread. The spread is made with eggplants, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and spices.

Restaurants: Nur, Fes | Bazaar Cafe, Marrakech

More: 21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Morocco

4. Fish Chermoula

Chermoula is a mix of herbs and spices used when grilling or baking fish and seafood. Depending on the mix, you’ll get flavors of onion, coriander, chili peppers, or saffron. Often times you’ll see it as a dipping sauce too.

Best Restaurant: The Ruined Garden, Fes | Krita, Marrakech

5. Harira

Harira is basically a Moroccan lentil soup usually served as a starter or used during Ramadan to break the fast at dusk.

Restaurants: Cafe Caravan, Marrakech | The Ruined Garden, Fes

6. Bastilla (Chicken or Pigeon Pie)

If you love the mix of sweet and salty flavors than you definitely need to try bastilla (also spelled pastilla). This flaky pie is traditionally made with pigeon, but more commonly served with chicken now.

Restaurants: Table d’Hotes Dar Bensouda, Fes | Al Fassia Aguedal, Marrakech

Try it at Home: Chicken Bastilla Recipe

7. Makouda

Who doesn’t love deep-fried foods? Makouda is a deep-fried potato ball dipped in spicy sauce and a street food staple.

Restaurants: Riad Rcif, Fes | Cafe Clock, Marrakech

Try it at Home: Makouda Batata Recipe

8. Khobz

This crusty bread is typically baked in communal wood-fired ovens and served with a lot of meals. Also, be sure to check out all the other breads in Morocco, like the harcha (a buttery bread), rghaif (a flaky flat bread), or baghira (spongy crumpet). Yes, give me all the carbs!

Try it at Home: Moroccan Khobz Recipe

9. Steamed Sheep Head

During the festival of Eid al-Adha, everyone slaughters a sheep and then steams the head for hours. You can typically purchase a half or whole head and enjoy it with cumin, salt, and chili. The whole head is edible, but the best parts are the tender cheek meat and tongue. Would you try it?

Try it at Home: Steamed Sheeps Head Recipe

10. Spicy Sardines

Morocco is the world’s largest exporter of sardines. Naturally, they serve it all over the country. Stuffed and cooked with a spicy chermoula sauce, they deep fry the fish for a tasty snack.

Where to Try it: The Ruined Garden, Fes | Miyame, Essouira

Try it at Home: Moroccan Stuffed Sardines Recipe

11. Mint Tea

Everyone has his or her own version of mint tea, which is the drink of choice in Morocco. It’s a green tea base with lots of mint leaves and sugar.

More: 21 Unique Things to Do in Fes Morocco

12. Bissara

Bissara is a rich and hearty soup made from dried fava beans and commonly served during breakfast. Typically it will be topped with fresh olive oil and a sprinkle of cumin.

Restaurants: Beldi Bab Ssour, Chefchaouen | Riad al Bartal, Fes

13. Crumbed Liver

This is one of the Moroccan foods you can try with a side of fries or in a sandwich, but the smooth and buttery calves’ livers is a delicious fried dish.

14. Brochettes

These tasty kebabs are rubbed in salt and spices and can be found in a lot of the markets. You can get chicken, lamb, or beef and the enormous clouds of smoke make for great photos.

Restaurants: Kasbah Cafe, Marrakech | Riad Andalib, Fes

Try it at Home: Chicken Brochettes Recipe

15. Aubergine or Moroccan Eggplant Fritters

Aubergine, or eggplant, is common in a few different dishes in Morocco, but be sure to try the fritters. They slice the eggplant then dip them in a paprika batter before deep-frying them for a delicious side dish.

Restaurants: Kasbah Cafe, Marrakech | Riad Andalib, Fes

Try it at Home: Moroccan Fried Eggplant Recipe

16. Snail Soup

Snail soup is a Moroccan dish you can find all over the country. Use a toothpick to pick out the snails from the shells then slurp up the soup. Locals believe the broth is good for digestion and fever.

17. Stuffed Camel Spleen

Taking on the form of a sausage, stuff camel spleen is soft and creamy. It’s usually filled with beef or lamb, olives, spices, and a bit of hump fat. It’s typically served in a sandwich.

18. Tanjia or Tangia

Tangia, like tagine, is a clay pot. These dishes are named after the cooking vessels they use. It’s traditionally filled with chunks of beef or lamb and a bunch of spices, then slow cooked in the embers of a furnace.

Restaurants: Mechoui Alley, Marrakech | Cafe Clock, Fes

Try it at Home: Moroccan Tangia Marrakchia

19. Kaab el Ghazal

Kaab el Ghazal, or gazelle horns, are crescent-shaped pastries have almond paste scented with orange flower water and cinnamon.

Try it at Home: Kaab el Ghazal Recipe (Gazelle Horns)

20. Briwat or Briouats

You can’t leave Morocco without having some of these delicious sweets! Briwat is a deep fried filo pastry. It is in shaped like a triangle and filled with almonds.

Restaurants: La Table de Marrakech, Marrakech | Riad Andalib, Fes

Try it at Home: Almond Briouat Recipe​

21. Shebakia or Chebakia

Another delicious dessert, shebakia is a flower-shaped, fried sesame cookie dipped in honey. You’ll usually find bees all over them in the markets, and they just shoo them away before serving them to you. It’s all part of the experience.

More: 21 Fascinating Things to Do in Marrakech Morocco

Pro Tip: Don’t Forget Your Imodium

It doesn’t matter how strong you think your stomach is. It’s better to be safe than sorry, friend. We’re no strangers to eating random street foods in the countries we visit, but it’s always a good idea since bacteria species can vary based on diet and geography. I’ve never taken Imodium before. On this trip, a third of our tour got sick after our first night, including me, and that Imodium came in really handy!

More: Packing List for Morocco, Spain, and Portugal

More Moroccan Foods to Try

• Baba Ghanoush
• Baklava
• Chicken with Preserved Lemon and Olives
• Chickpea Stew
• Kefta Meatball Tagine
• Mechoui
• Nuts and Olives
• Lamb or Beef with Prunes
• Rfissa

Best Places to Stay

Planning Checklist

Would you try sheep’s head, pigeon pie, or snail soup? Which of these Moroccan foods do you want to try the most? Are we missing anything on our list that we need to try on our next trip?

21 Things to Do in Fes Morocco

1. Take in the Smells of the Chouara Tannery →

Location: Fes El Bali, Fes, Morocco

Colorful Moroccan slippers, bags, and jackets are just some of the leather goods available in Fes. But before shopping, be sure to check out the world-famous tanneries to see the traditional dying of animal skins. The smells are pungent, so bring a scarf to cover your nose or grab some mint to sniff if you’re sensitive to smells.

Pro Tip: People will offer you mint “for free” but later hassle you for money. If you want it, just be willing to pay and agree on a price before you take it. We didn’t stay very long and managed fine without the mint.

See More: Photo Guide of the Chouara Tannery in Fez

2. Take Photos of the Golden Gates at the Royal Palace →

Location: 12 Derb el Miter Oued Zhoune Luxury Riad Medina, Fes, Morocco

Although the palace isn’t open to the public, you can see the seven gates of the Royal Palace. It’s an iconic spot in Fes and worth the visit for any photographer.

See More: The Famous Doors at the Golden Gates of Palais Royale

3. Take in the History of the Medersa Bou Inania

Location: Rue Talaa Sghira, Fes, Morocco

The Medersa Bou Inania was built in the 14th century and is one of the few religious buildings in the city that non-Muslims can enter. Until the 1960s, it was a theological school, and now it can be appreciated for its architecture and history. One distinctive feature is the green-tiled minaret.

4. Visit the Oldest University in the World

Location: Fes El Bali, Fes, Morocco

According to UNESCO, the University of al Karaouine (Qarawiyyin) is the oldest university in the world. It currently functions as a working Mosque and is one of Morocco’s largest centers of worship. Unfortunately, if you’re not a Muslim, you’ll have to settle for a glimpse of the courtyard.

5. Stroll Through the Mellah or Jewish Quarter

Location: Mellah, Fes, Morocco

Just north of the Royal Palace is the Mellah, or Jewish Quarter. Although the Jewish community no longer lives here, you can still see the history. Take in the architecture, visit the Aben-Danan Synagogue, and shop the antique boutiques. The Jewish cemetery is also in the area and worth stopping by.

6. Walk Through the Fez Medina or Fes El Bali

Location: Fes, Morocco

This is the city’s oldest neighborhood and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s unique in that it has retained much of its history and roots.

7. Check Out the Arms Museum at Borj Nord

Location: Douar El Magta, Fes, Morocco

This 16th-century fortress has an impressive collection of weapons, including some rare pieces. There are 13 rooms with roughly 775 military items! If weapons aren’t your thing, the fortress has a great view of the Old City from the roof.

8. Visit the Bab Boujeloud (Blue Gate)

Location: Talaa, Fes, Morocco

The Bab Boujiloud is the iconic blue gate that marks the entrance to Fes el Bali (Old City). You can also check out the Bab Chorfa, another impressive gate framing the Medina.

9. See the Al Attarine Madrasa

Location: Rue Talaa Kebira, Fes, Morocco

This is another building where you can admire the architecture, tilework, and woodcarvings of the 14th century. Once home to students at the university, don’t forget to climb up to the rooftops to get a view of the Kairaouine Mosque & University.

10. Enjoy Fes Art at the Dar Matha Museum

Location: 5, Place Batha Oued Fejjaline, Fes, Morocco

The Dar Batha Museum is home to woodcarvings, ironwork, embroidery, carpets, and jewelry that encompasses the beauty and history of Fes. The museum is housed in a 19th-century summer palace, which makes for the perfect backdrop to view the collection.

11. Stroll Through the Bou Jeloud Gardens

Location: Ave Moulay Hassan, Fes, Morocco

The Bou Jeloud Gardens, also known as Jardin Jnan Sbil, were once imperial gardens. Enjoy the serene lake, fruit trees, and getaway from the big city in this peaceful oasis.

12. Henna Souk

Location: Derb Fakharine, Fes, Morocco

Shop at one of the oldest souks or marketplaces, the Henna Souk, where you’ll find ceramics and traditional cosmetics, like henna. Plane trees give natural shade to the stalls and keep you protected from the sun.

13. Relax in a Private Hamman

Location: 3 Derb Bechara, Fes, Morocco

For a local experience, visit one of the public hammams or bathhouses. If you want to be pampered, there are plenty of private hammams. Spas like Spa Laaroussa give you an authentic feel with the luxury and comfort of an upscale spa.

14. Shop for Moroccan Carpets

Location: Medina of Fes, Morocco

Fes is the center of Moroccan carpets. While in the Medina, be sure to check out one of the carpet shops where they’ll tell you everything you need to know. Just keep in mind that it is high-pressure sales!

Pro Tip: If you’re here with a local guide, be wary if they offer to help you negotiate. Often times they get a cut of the sales as well.

See More: 21 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Morocco

15. Trek Through the Tazekka National Park

Location: Taza Province, Morocco

This national park is roughly an hour and half from Fes and is home to cork oaks and cedars. You can summit Diebel Tazzeka (1980 m) for spectacular views or explore the rest of the country side. Taza is a great home base if you’re looking to spend more than a day here.

16. See the City From Mount Zalagh

Location: Mount Zalagh, Morocco

Hike up Mount Zalagh to get a true appreciation of how large and beautiful Fes is. It’s the biggest mountain overlooking the city. If you’re looking for adventure, there are great hikes and mountain biking up here as well.

17. Watch a Belly Dancing Show

Location: Fes, Morocco

You can’t leave Morocco without going to a belly dancing show. Although it originated in Egypt, it’s a popular thing to do in Morocco as well.

See More: 21 Moroccan Foods You Must Try in Morocco

18. Have a Picnic at the Marinid Tombs During Sunset

Location: Fes, Morocco

Marinid Tombs or Merenid tombs from the 14th century are mostly ruins now but make a perfect backdrop to watch the sunset over the city. Bring a picnic with you to escape the hustle and bustle of town.

Pro Tip: Avoid staying after dark, though, since there have been reported muggings.

19. Nejjarine Square and Museum

Location: Medina of Fes, Morocco

The museum is home to woodworking tools and beautiful woodwork. Located near the carpenter district of the Medina, the square hosts architecture dating back to the 18th century. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace to get a great view of Fes as well!

20. Take a Day Trip to the Charming Sefrou

Location: Sefrou, Morocco

Located just half an hour away from Fes lies the quiet town of Sefrou. It was once a booming town, but since then has become a historic hideaway. The lack of development has preserved its charm and is a photographer’s dream.

21. Soak in the Waters at Moulay Yacoub

Location: Moulay Yacoub, Morocco

This is another small town that’s only 30 minutes away and worth the visit. You can experience the authentic hammas, or public bath houses, the highlight of Moulay Yacoub. It’s believed that the waters from the countryside have curing properties and relieve the suffering of rheumatism, skin diseases, and nose and throat problems.

Would you buy leather goods, carpets, or local outfits in Fez? What kind of activities do you like doing when visiting a new city?