Traveling in 2026: Part 4

Part 4 of 6 about traveling in 2026
by Jenny Buschauer

There are certain destinations that seem to live in our collective imagination long before we ever visit them. Morocco is one of them. The vibrant souks of Marrakech, the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, the golden dunes of the Sahara. These images surface in conversations, appear in films, and quietly build anticipation year after year.

For many travelers, Morocco represents something meaningfully different from the European cities they may have already explored or familiar beach destinations. It feels culturally rich without being overwhelming, and accessible enough to feel attainable while still promising genuine discovery.

Why Morocco Continues to Draw Travelers

Morocco’s geographical diversity is genuinely remarkable. Within a single trip, travelers can experience the energy of imperial cities like Marrakech and Fès, the coastal charm of Essaouira, the dramatic Atlas Mountains, and the otherworldly quiet of the Sahara Desert.

As I mentioned in the first article of this series, Fès ranked third globally among food-focused destinations for 2026. The food culture in Morocco is experienced as part of daily life, not presented as a tourist attraction. Market visits reveal seasonal produce and traditional spices, while meals are communal and prepared with care that reflects the importance of hospitality in Moroccan culture.

The layered history is equally compelling. Walking through ancient medinas, travelers encounter artisans still practicing traditional crafts: leather workers, metalworkers, weavers, and ceramicists whose techniques have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Moments That Stay with You

Certain experiences in Morocco resonate deeply with travelers. Watching the sun rise over the Sahara dunes, the landscape shifting from deep purple to gold. Sipping mint tea on a rooftop terrace as the call to prayer echoes across the city at dusk. Discovering a hidden courtyard garden in a centuries-old riad, a traditional Moroccan house built around an interior garden or courtyard, where fountain water creates tranquility that feels worlds away from the bustling streets outside.

These moments can’t be manufactured, but they can be made more likely through thoughtful planning. The right riad, chosen for its location and hospitality as much as its beauty. The timing of a desert excursion to capture the most striking light. A knowledgeable local guide who provides cultural context without overwhelming. These details shape how the experience feels both during and long after.

When Details Matter More Than Reservations

Morocco is widely available to book online, yet it’s also a destination where the distance between what looks good on a website and what delivers a rewarding experience can be surprisingly wide.

Consider accommodation. Staying in a traditional riad is often recommended, and for good reasons. These converted courtyard homes offer architectural beauty and local character. However, some riads are located deep within the medina, providing atmosphere but require navigation of narrow streets with luggage and limited vehicle access. Others sit just outside the old city walls, offering easier logistics while maintaining traditional aesthetics.

Transportation carries similar weight. The journey from Marrakech to the Sahara crosses the High Atlas Mountains and passes through Berber villages. It’s beautiful, but it can take eight to ten hours. For some travelers, this feels like an adventure. For others, it becomes the part they wish they had reconsidered. Knowing whether to structure this as a straight drive, an overnight mountain stop, or a different route entirely depends on understanding travel preferences and what to prioritize during limited vacation time.

The choice between group tours, private guides, or independent exploration also shapes the entire feel of the experience. None of these approaches is inherently better. The right choice depends entirely on the individual and what kind of experience they’re truly seeking.

Why Experience Matters in Complex Destinations

As travel becomes easier to book online, the role of a travel advisor has shifted from making reservations to providing context and ensuring that the many small decisions add up to a cohesive, rewarding experience.

Morocco rewards travelers who approach it thoughtfully. When the pacing is right, when accommodations match expectations rather than just descriptions, when cultural moments are built into the itinerary rather than stumbled upon by chance, Morocco reveals itself in ways that feel both inspiring and deeply personal.

For travelers considering Morocco in 2026, whether as a long-held dream or newly sparked interest, the planning process can be as important as the destination itself.

Looking Ahead

In the weeks to come, this series will continue exploring destinations travelers are drawn to for 2026 and how informed planning decisions can turn popular ideas into truly rewarding experiences.

About Jenny’s Across States & Seas Travel

I’m Jenny Buschauer, founder of Jenny’s Across States & Seas Travel. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry and firsthand travel across more than 50 countries and 40 U.S. states, I help clients plan thoughtful, well-organized trips that reflect their budget, interests and travel style.

From historic European cities to wildlife experiences, cultural destinations and relaxed getaways closer to home, my goal is to handle the details so my clients can focus on enjoying the journey.

If you’d like to start talking about ideas for a future trip, I’d be happy to help.

Jenny Buschauer
Across States & Seas Travel
Email: jenny@stateseatravel.com
Website: www.stateseatravel.com
Phone: 203-693-1289