POST-EARTHQUAKE TRAVEL TO MOROCCO
Your Guide to Eco-friendly, Eye-catching Boutique Stays
Photo Credit Riad Jardin Secret
After the recent earthquake, Morocco's been on our mind. In an era where disasters seem increasingly frequent, we're faced with a pressing question: What's the ethical course of action for those of us who love to travel?
Is packing our bags and going a responsible choice, or does it add to the problem? In this post, we'll focus on Morocco to touch on the complexities of visiting areas post-disaster. We'll also introduce you to our handpicked list of hotels that aren't just visually stunning—they're places where your stay can directly bolster local recovery and communities.
On Disaster Tourism: More Than Just a Catchphrase
Before you side-eye the term 'disaster tourism,' it's important to know that not all tourism in post-disaster zones is exploitative. Critics may argue it's just rubbernecking in an exotic locale. But in many instances, this is not the case. An example is my native New Orleans, a city that's rebounded more than once, and tells a different story. When local authorities give the all-clear and the community's ready to welcome you, your visit isn't just a personal gain—it's a communal win.
So how do you do it right? It starts with intention. Show up ready to respect the locale and its people. Your dollars carry weight. Spend them on local businesses, from that charming coffee shop to a stay in a family-owned boutique hotel. It's a tangible way to lend a hand and one of the best ways to get your money across oceans and into the right hands.
And never underestimate the power of human connection. Your respectful interaction can boost morale, turning your trip into something far more meaningful than a standard vacation.
Photo Credit Amanjena
Photo credit Dar Ahlam
Why It's a Win-Win to Travel to Morocco Now
Most of Morocco is open for business and eager to greet visitors. The recent earthquake was devastating, but its impact was primarily felt in specific rural regions. Based on government assessments, much of the country's tourism infrastructure remains intact. Tours have resumed with slight changes to their routes, and according to industry insiders, the bulk of Moroccan hotels are unscathed and ready for guests.
It's important to note that the regions most affected, particularly in the Atlas Mountains, are not currently open to tourists due to ongoing rescue efforts. Yet, in the rest of the country, life continues. That includes airports, schools, shops, and restaurants—all functioning, albeit under the weight of recent events.
What does this mean for you, the conscientious traveler? It's a chance to be part of Morocco's recovery. By opting for stays in boutique hotels, savoring local cuisine, and supporting artisan shops, you're not just enjoying the rich Moroccan culture. You're actively participating in its comeback.
Spotlight on Moroccan Stays: Authentic Escapes That Give Back
We've been in direct conversation with some hoteliers and managers of some of our top Moroccan hotel pics to get the lowdown on the ground situation. The result? A hand-picked list of beautiful boutique accommodations hitting all budget ranges, that are good to go and will offer more than just a plush bed for the night. These are just a few exceptional spots to immerse you directly into the richness of Moroccan culture while also uplifting local communities, culture, and the environment. If you want us to book any of these for you or you're looking for a full itinerary, just pop us a note here.
Riad Jardin Secret – Marrakech
Photo credits: Riad Jardin Secret
Riad Jardin Secret is a haven for those drawn to the "anti-modern" ethos—a love letter to authenticity and the beauty of imperfection. Forget TVs and air conditioning; they intentionally skip the modern-day distractions to offer a laid-back, immersive experience. From carefully sourced furnishings to artisan-crafted details, the space radiates a thoughtful sophistication. And we just can't get enough of these bedrooms. It's a spot that's as committed to aesthetic allure as it is to sustainable, slow-paced living. Here, you're encouraged to read, sketch, and dream, all while deeply connecting with Morocco's artistic pulse.
Rooms: 7; Price: from €150
Riad Fes – Fes
Photo credits: Riad Fes
Tucked within Fes' ancient medina walls, Riad Fes offers an atmosphere that feels both rooted in Moroccan history and strikingly current. It's a blend of interconnected buildings, each featuring its own unique decor theme—reflecting the maze-like structure of the surrounding city. The first thing you'll notice is the communal Moroccan patio, draped in intricate tiles and accented with deep navy and gold upholstery and a punch of pink sofas. Far from being a mere lodging spot, Riad Fes is a tasteful echo of the local intricacies, offering experiences from cooking classes to breathtaking rooftop views of the entire medina. It's a sanctuary where style and cultural nuance live side by side.
Rooms: 26; Price: from €235
Perks when we book for you:
Complimentary Breakfast
VIP Welcome
Amanjena – Marrakech
Photo credits: Amanjena
If you're headed to Morocco with some change to spare, Amanjena is where you'll want to drop it. This 'peaceful paradise' is an architectural masterpiece that could only be inspired by Morocco's rich history and culture. Even the entry-level Pavilions are closer to private estates than hotel rooms. Should you opt for a Maison, expect spacious villas that offer the epitome of privacy and indulgence, without veering into excess. As for service, it's subtle yet ever-present, fulfilling your needs before you even realize you have them. Amanjena offers a harmonious blend of Moroccan tradition and understated elegance, making your stay feel less like a vacation and more like a retreat for the soul.
Rooms: 40; Price: from €800 (but are often €1200+)
Perks when we book for you:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast for 2
Food & Beverage or Spa Credit
Inara Camp – Agafay desert
Photo credits: Inara Camp
Inara Camp is where the Moroccan desert meets refined comfort—no flash included. Situated among the rolling dunes, this place offers a mind-cleansing retreat in a raw yet calming setting. Their tents—yes, tents—serve as epitomes of restrained elegance. Picture plush beds, warm Moroccan textiles, and private terraces opening to vast, expansive views. No TVs or digital distractions; it's just you under a sky embroidered with stars. It's more than just a stay; it’s an intimate communion with the desert. The Inara team enhances this connection with locally inspired activities and considerate touches. This isn't your standard camping trip; it's an elevated experience that connects you deeply with nature.
Rooms (tents): 18 ; Price: from €315
Perks when we book for you:
Upgrade to the next tent category, based upon availability at check-in
A welcome amenity or beverage
Daily breakfast for 2
A food and beverage or spa credit
Dar Ahlam
Photo credits: Dar Ahlam
Dar Ahlam is a 19th-century Kasbah turned intimate hideaway, where modern amenities and traditional Moroccan elements coexist without pretense. Your journey starts with a walk down personalized paths to reach individually designed spaces. Meals unfold in an array of settings, from private terraces to rose gardens and secluded olive groves. Curated activities focus on cultural nuances, whether it's meeting local artisans specialized in Moroccan rug-making or taking cooking classes that delve into regional spices and techniques. The essence of the place lies in its commitment to meaningful encounters, offering you not just a location but a lens through which to understand Morocco. It's less like a hotel and more an evolving narrative you get to join.
Rooms: 14; Price: from €1000
Perks when we book for you:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast for 2
Food & Beverage or Spa Credit
Azalai Beach Cottage – Safi Coast
Photo credits: Azalai Beach Cottage
Azalai Beach Cottage is your low-key gateway to the Moroccan coast. Skip the grandiosity; here it's all comfort, no fluff. Nine rooms—each with an ocean view—split between a homey main house and tucked-away garden bungalows. The interiors blend neutral tones with Moroccan accents, just steps away from the beach. Mornings kick off with fresh local produce, a pergola breakfast set to the tune of the Atlantic. The day's plans are as varied as the local landscape, from fishing outings with locals to hands-on Moroccan cooking classes. Beyond the beach, there’s Safi with its ancient Portuguese fortress, and the region’s renowned pottery culture that spans from Potters’ Hill to the Chaâba Valley. It's not just a stay; it's your intro to the rhythm of Morocco’s coast.
Rooms: 9; Price: from €157
Azyar Ocean Lodge – Safi Coast
Photo credits: Azyar Ocean Lodge
Azyar Ocean Lodge perches on the cliffs of Cape Beddouza, offering a blend of minimalist elegance and natural beauty. Designed as an eco-lodge, sustainability isn't just a buzzword here—it's built into the experience. With just 10 accommodations—eight suites and two larger cabins with private pools—this isn't about crowds or clamor. Instead, it's a front-row seat to the Atlantic, where every room serves up sweeping ocean views. Mornings can start with breakfast overlooking the water, and days can unfold by infinity pools or on the beach below. Local attractions add a bit of variety, from the historical pottery industry in nearby Safi to the oyster beds in Oualidia. The lodge pays homage to Moroccan culture through its decor—think elegant sobriety with elements like velvet sofas and artisanal fixtures. Dining leans into Mediterranean flavors, sourcing fish and seafood straight from the ocean you've been gazing at all day.
Rooms: 10; Price: from €238
Also Check out…
Berber Lodge – Oumnass
Ksar Char-Bagh – Marrakech
Jnane Tamsna - Marrakech
Riad Dar K – Marrakech
Riad Dyor – Marrakech
Riad Yasmine – Marrakech
Scarabeo camp – Agafay Desert
Azalai Desert Lodge – Zagora
Packing it up
In essence, it's all about traveling with eyes and hearts open. So if you've been pondering about that trip to Morocco—now's the time to make it happen. Your presence is more powerful than you think.
Ready to dive into Morocco's unique blend of beauty and resilience?
We'll help you to make it happen. We can secure your stay at any of these hotels that speak to you. And if you're ready to immerse yourself fully in Morocco's diverse offerings, we're equally excited to craft a bespoke itinerary just for you. Fill out the form here to share your vision with us.
Happy travels!
Katy HOogerwerf
Katy, a New Orleans native, was deeply influenced by the art, design, music, and renowned cuisine that her hometown is celebrated for. Her expertise and passion revolve around curating design-led conscious businesses catered to travelers. She currently resides in Holland with her Mexican husband and their two spirited boys.
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