Spice-scented souks? Camels making cameos? Haggling as a national sport? Yes to all of it!
Morocco is brilliantly layered, rewarding LGBTQ+ travelers who show up curious, confident, and well-guided (seriously – a fantastic guide makes a world of difference). We’ve been introducing gay travellers to Morocco since 2011, and 15 years later, it remains a standout favorite thanks to its culture, landscapes, and famously warm hospitality. If you’re considering a visit, here are 10 reasons to join our Morocco gay group trip instead of going it alone.
Note: We understand there are strong opinions on whether or not we should be visiting countries with governments that do not prioritize equality (read: anti-LGBTQ+ laws). For more information on how our tours help support the local LGBTQ+ community wherever we visit, please see our blog To Book…Or Boycott.
10. Traipse through tropical Tangier
Tangier is where Morocco flirts shamelessly with Europe and the Mediterranean. Perched at the crossroads of Africa and Spain, this port city has long attracted artists, writers, spies, and stylish wanderers who like their history with a side of intrigue.
One minute you’re wandering whitewashed streets overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, the next you’re sipping mint tea where legends like Paul Bowles, Tennessee Williams, and Truman Capote once plotted their next moves. There’s even some sordid gay history to be found, and you can read more about that in our blog Queer Tangier.
There’s an effortless cool to Tangier – it’s less hectic than other Moroccan cities, but no less fascinating. The medina hums without shouting, the cafés invite lingering, and the sea breeze does wonders for the soul. It’s Morocco easing you in with a wink.
9. Descend into the Caves of Hercules
Just outside Tangier lies one of Morocco’s most myth-worthy spots. The Caves of Hercules are dripping in legend and said to be where the muscle-bound hero himself took a post-labor power nap.
The real showstopper? A sea-facing opening shaped unmistakably like the map of Africa – rumor has it the ancient Phoenicians carved it, but whether or not that’s true, Mother Nature certainly assisted.
Inside, it’s cavernous and dramatic, with waves crashing theatrically against stone walls. It’s equal parts geology lesson and photo op, and one of those places where myth, nature, and spectacle collide beautifully.
8. Snap selfies in Chefchaouen, a.k.a. “The Blue City”
Chefchaouen looks like someone spilled a very chic paint bucket across a mountainside and just went with it. Every alley, archway, and staircase is washed in shades of blue, from soft sky to bold cobalt, making it one of the most photogenic places on the planet (and yes, your camera roll will suffer).
But beyond the visuals, Chefchaouen is calm, soulful, and refreshingly slow-paced. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, it’s the perfect place to wander aimlessly, shop for handmade goods, and enjoy Morocco at its most serene.
7. Get your history fix at Volubilis
Volubilis is proof that Morocco has been fabulous for a very long time. This partly excavated Berber-Roman city sits dramatically among rolling hills, offering a glimpse into life nearly 2,000 years ago, complete with basilicas, triumphal arches, and impressively intact mosaic floors.
Walking through Volubilis feels like stumbling onto an ancient movie set, minus the crowds. It’s quiet, grand, and surprisingly moving, reminding you that Morocco’s story stretches far beyond the medinas and markets, all the way back to Roman history.
It’s also a top-tier spot to snap some social-media winning photos. 📸
6. Go souvenir-hunting in Fes’ famous medina
What’s a medina? Think of it as a city’s historic heart: a walled area packed with souks, mosques, palaces, and homes. It feels like stepping back into the past, except with better snacks.
The medina of Fes is a full sensory workout. It’s the world’s largest car-free urban zone, and once you step inside, it’s a maze of donkey-filled alleys, spice-scented air, and artisans hammering away at centuries-old crafts. This is Morocco turned all the way up.
Yes, it’s intense, but it’s also magical. With the right guide, the chaos becomes choreography, revealing hidden courtyards, ancient madrasas, vivid textiles, and TONS of trinkets to take home as a keepsake.
5. Marvel at Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque
If Casablanca has a mic-drop moment, this is it. The Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest and most jaw-dropping religious structures in the world, dramatically perched above the Atlantic Ocean with a minaret that seems to touch the clouds.
Inside, it’s pure craftsmanship porn: hand-carved marble, patterned tilework, soaring ceilings, and a retractable roof…because why not?
The whole structure is a masterclass in scale, beauty, and Moroccan artistry, and we’ll have ample time to wander about during our tour.
4. Desert thrills and luxury camp frills
The Moroccan desert is a choose-your-own adventure in the best possible way. Camel rides at sunset? Check! Racing across the dunes on ATVs? Double check! Wide-open landscapes as far as the eye can see? Got ‘em!
We’re staying at Oxygen Lodge, a desert luxury camp with a sparkling pool, an abundance of loungers, and staff who’ll cater to our whims. Join an action-packed excursion or treat it like a spa day, veg out by the pool, or catch up on your reading.
Once night falls, the stars come out, and the desert turns downright romantic. Campfires, traditional music, and a spectacular group dinner round out the evening. It’s relaxi-thrilling by day, soulful by night, and unforgettable all around.
3. Stroll through Majorelle Gardens
Majorelle Gardens are a kitschy, colorful oasis in the heart of Marrakech. Designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, the garden is a lush blend of exotic plants, trickling fountains, and that mesmerizing electric-blue hue.
It’s peaceful, polished, and perfectly curated, effectively acting as a palate cleanser after the city’s chaos.
2. Explore the impeccable Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Right next door to Majorelle Gardens is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, a love letter to fashion, creativity, and Morocco’s influence on one of the world’s most legendary designers. The space itself is modern, elegant, and thoughtfully designed.
Inside, you’ll find world-famous sketches, couture pieces, and insight into how Morocco’s colors, textures, and light shaped YSL’s vision. It’s intimate, inspiring, and a reminder that style, like travel, is about seeing the world differently.
1. Safety first and always!
Traveling in a group is a bit like having a built-in safety net that also knows where the best dinner reservations are.
There’s reassurance in moving together, in having someone on hand who knows the terrain, and in sharing experiences rather than second-guessing them. Plus, you’re less visible as a tourist and more visible as a confident, coordinated presence. That peace of mind changes everything: fewer surprises, more enjoyment.
That’s especially true in Morocco, where the current penal code criminalizes same-sex sexual activity. This is a topic we frequently receive questions about: whether or not it’s safe for gay travelers to even visit Morocco at all. Speaking from 15 years of experience leading tours – yes, it is safe! Here are some other FAQs:
Is Morocco safe for gay travel?
Yes! With awareness and discretion. Morocco is generally safe for gay travelers, especially when you’re culturally respectful and not drawing unnecessary attention. Many LGBTQ+ visitors travel without incident by following local norms with experienced guides. We’re not saying you can’t be your authentic self; just be respectful in the same way you would if you were invited into someone’s house and they prefer you to take your shoes off at the front door.
Is it illegal to be gay in Morocco as a tourist?
Being gay is not illegal, but same-sex sexual activity is criminalized under Moroccan law, regardless of nationality. Enforcement against tourists is rare, but the law exists, which is why discretion and smart travel choices matter.
Can gay couples hold hands or show affection in Morocco?
Public displays of affection are discouraged for everyone, gay or straight. Same-sex couples should avoid holding hands, kissing, or other visible affection in public spaces to stay respectful and avoid unwanted attention.
Can gay couples share a bed in Moroccan hotels?
In most mid-range to high-end hotels and riads, yes – especially when booked through reputable operators. That said, discretion is key, and some smaller or more traditional properties may prefer separate beds. Traveling with a tour or a trusted local partner helps avoid awkward situations.
Is it safe to use dating apps like Grindr in Morocco?
To minimize risk, we recommend removing any gay dating or hookup apps from your phone before entering the country (they can always be re-downloaded after your trip has finished). Dating apps can carry risks, including scams or unwanted attention, particularly outside major cities or private settings.
Is it better to visit Morocco with a tour group?
Traveling with a gay group takes the stress out of the equation and keeps the trip running with minimal risk. You’ll be led by an LGBTQ-welcoming, experienced local guide and a gay host who’ll handle the logistics with finesse. From cultural nuance to language barriers to knowing when to lean in and when to keep things discreet, everything is handled thoughtfully.
Ready to join a fun gay group and see Morocco for yourself?
Whether you’re dreaming of souks and sunsets, desert nights and blue-hued streets, or simply traveling smarter and safer with a like-minded group, we’ve got you covered. Want to chat through the details? Simply Contact Us, or head over to the Morocco: Tangier to Marrakech page to get booked.
Featured Posts
It was between the late 40s and early 50s when the gay literati of the time began flocking to Tangier, Morocco to escape the conservative landscape of America. Read More
Our ever-popular Gay Tour of Morocco features a variety of accommodations. From 5-star boutique hotels to traditional Berber campsites in the Sahara. Read More
Africa is home to 54 separate countries, and they come with a broad range of cultures, traditions, and – most importantly – LGBTQ+ acceptance. Here’s the lowdown on the safest destinations for gay travellers. Read More
Out Adventures loves to bring you the most diverse gay tours on Earth, and we’ve done so for nearly ten years. But some journeys bring travellers to nations less gay-welcoming than others. Read More
