Moroccan cuisine is celebrated for its rich diversity, blending flavors and cooking traditions from Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. The local dishes emphasise fresh, locally sourced ingredients and is renowned for its aromatic spices and colorful presentations.
In Morocco, you'll find staple ingredients such as couscous, legumes, and a variety of vegetables, often accompanied by tender meats and fragrant spices. Traditional cooking methods, such as tagine cooking and grilling, highlight the importance of flavor and community in Moroccan culinary culture. Some popular Moroccan dishes include:
- Tagine: Named after the earthenware pot in which it’s cooked, tagine is a slow-cooked stew featuring meats, vegetables, and a unique blend of spices, resulting in rich and aromatic flavors.
- Couscous: A staple dish made from steamed semolina wheat, couscous is often served with a stew or vegetables and can be flavored with spices, nuts, and dried fruits.
- Harira: A traditional soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and various spices, harira is often enjoyed during Ramadan to break the fast and is a comforting favorite year-round.
- Pastilla: A savory-sweet pie made from layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and cinnamon, typically dusted with powdered sugar and served as a festive dish.
- Mint Tea: Known as “Moroccan whiskey,” this sweet, mint-infused green tea is a staple of Moroccan hospitality, served in ornate glasses and enjoyed throughout the day.
The cost of all meals is included in our Classic Group tours. For tours in our Go Beyond range, Private tours and Short Stay Extensions, meal inclusions are listed on your itinerary. You may like to drink beer, wine, soft drinks, fruit juice or bottled water with your meals – please note drinks are not included in your tour price so payment for these is made directly to the restaurant staff. Tap water in larger cities is often safe, but the water in rural areas is probably not, so be sure to check with a reliable source before using, and if in any doubt, take all the recommended precautions.
On our Fully Inclusive Classic Group Tours, all meals (excluding beverages) are included unless specifically stated otherwise. Discovering new cuisine is a highlight of travel to Morocco and your Local Guide will give you tips on local specialties to try. You will sample a range of local cuisine with occasional western meals, and meals are usually taken at local restaurants. In remote areas, some meals may be basic or repetitive. On Go Beyond tours and our independent Private Tours, some meals are included however we have also included several free evenings, offering flexibility for those who wish to explore local restaurants. Please check your day-by-day tour itinerary for details of which meals are included.
Food Allergies & Dietary Preferences in Morocco
Any food allergies or dietary requests must be specified at the time of booking. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate any dietary requirements once you have departed your home country.
Morocco boasts a diverse culinary landscape influenced by its rich cultural heritage. However, it’s important to note that vegetarianism and veganism may not be universally understood, particularly in rural areas. While many Moroccan dishes can be modified to exclude meat and dairy, traditional meals often incorporate animal products. Clear communication about your dietary needs is essential, and approaching restaurant staff with patience and understanding can greatly aid in navigating menus or discussing food preparation.