Morocco was the first country where I ever participated in a retreat and it was pretty spectacular. I’m talking rooftop yoga overlooking the ocean at sunset and fun group meals made from the freshest local produce. There are SO many reasons that Morocco is an ideal destination for wellness retreaters but I managed to narrow it down to just a few…
In this article, I outline 10 compelling reasons why Morocco should be your next wellness retreat destination…
Hi! I’m Caroline, your wellness retreat travel guide. I’ve worked in the wellness industry for 15+ years & been lucky enough to stay at amazing health resorts around the world. Let’s get you inspired & prepared to go on your own retreat…
Here’s a quick overview of the top reasons why Morocco is an outstanding destination for wellness retreats…
- Short travel time
- Affordable
- Traditional wellness practices
- Varied retreat options
- Exotic destinations
- Healthy national cuisine
- Climate
- Unique nature
- Sustainable travel options
- Support a developing economy
Let’s talk through each of these in more detail…
Short travel time
Travelling to Morocco from Europe is relatively quick. It’s just 3 hours from the UK to Tangiers and under 4 hours to Marrakesh or Agadir (gateway to the coast). It’s even quicker if you’re flying from most airports in mainland Europe.
This makes Morocco an more convenient retreat option than popular destinations like Cyprus or Rhodes, which have flight times of 4+ hours. There are plenty of international airports to fly into like Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, Rabat, Essaouira, Fes, and Agadir. It’s well-connected with lots of airlines to choose from including low-cost carriers like EasyJet.
Affordable retreats
Many Moroccan wellness retreats are extremely affordable which makes them a great option if you’re on a tight budget. You can find week-long retreats for less than £450 (€500/$550) that include all your accommodation, food, and activities. We even found a half-day retreat for just £99!
Morocco has plenty of luxury options too but even these are more affordable than in other countries. When you factor in the availability of low-cost flights from Europe, it’s clear that this is one of the best-value retreat destinations in the world.
Traditional wellness practices
Morocco has a wealth of traditional wellness practices and treatments that you can try while you’re there. From hammam steam baths to argan oil massages, there are plenty of authentic local experiences on offer. You can also try unique Moroccan spa treatments like rhassoul clay masks that make for a relaxing and revitalising trip. These ancient wellness traditions and local rituals are something that really sets Morocco apart from other destinations.
Varied retreat options
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to retreats in Morocco. How many other countries can offer yoga breaks, desert experiences, AND surf camps?! Whether you want to focus on your fitness, enhance overall wellness, tie in a retreat with cookery classes, or work on hobbies like photography, Morocco has you covered.
Exotic destinations
Now everyone’s definition of ‘exotic’ is different, but as someone who grew up in the UK I find Morocco to be exactly this. Despite being just 3 hours away, it feels like you’re on the other side of the world. Exploring the souks and medinas, staying in traditional riad buildings, and sampling fragrant tagines are just a few exotic bonuses of retreating in Morocco. Get inspired with this list of Moroccan wellness destinations and must-visit locations.
Healthy national cuisine
Speaking of tagines, Morocco is renowned for it’s fresh and flavourful cuisine. On a retreat here you’ll enjoy meals made from unprocessed ingredients with fruit, vegetables, grains, and spices all stars of the show. And of course no trip to Morocco is complete without your daily mint tea ritual!
Climate
Another thing I really appreciate about Morocco is its climate. Being located on the northern tip of Africa, it enjoys year-round warmth and sunshine. When the rest of Europe of North America is grey and chilly, you can still soak up some much-needed vitamin D at Moroccan retreats.
You might also like… What to pack for Morocco in Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter.
Unique nature
If you’re someone who loves to unplug and get out in nature, then Morocco offers some unique landscapes. You can enjoy retreats in the Sahara desert where you can take in the sand dunes and sunsets. And in just a few hours you can be surfing on the Atlantic coast. Bali and Thailand may have great beaches, but can they offer you remote desert expeditions on the same day?!
Sustainable travel options
Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and emissions from our travels. If you’re keen to reduce your carbon footprint, then Morocco may offer more sustainable options.
Being a short flight from Europe, travelling there by plane is already a lower-carbon option than long-haul destinations like Asia and South America. But if you have the time, then you can get a train or bus down to southern Spain and then a ferry to Morocco from there.
Although most ferries emit more CO2 than planes (fun fact I learned when researching this article!), combining it with trains and buses makes it more efficient overall. Because you’re only using a ferry for the 30km crossing and not the entire 1000km+ journey from your home, there are less emissions involved. The Travel & Climate website has a handy comparison chart that outlines emissions from different transport types.
Support a developing economy and local hosts
Choosing to stay at independent wellness retreats can also be a way to support the local economy. The money you spend goes directly to the retreat host or accommodation owner. A proportion of it will be spent paying local staff and guides, or buying from other businesses in the area (like farmers for produce or transport providers).
The UN classes Morocco as a developing country, ranking it 120th out of 193 globally. Spending your money with local businesses can be a great way to support it’s development.
So what do you think? Have I convinced you to consider Morocco for your next wellness retreat or are you still on the fence? Check out our tip picks for Moroccan retreats or get in touch with your views, comments, and feedback via Instagram.
