30 cool fun facts about Morocco for kids and travelers

When you think of Morocco, you probably think of the Sahara desert or the bustling souks of Marrakech, right?

But trust me, there’s a whole lot more to it. In this trivia guide, I’m sharing the best cool facts about Morocco, and some of them might surprise you!

Let’s take a look at what makes this place truly special.

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Cool fun facts about Morocco

1. Morocco is home to the world’s largest desert

The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, and Morocco has a piece of it. It covers 9.2 million km², which is almost the same size as China!

That’s a sea of sand you just can’t miss.

2. You can see Spain from Morocco

On a clear day, gaze northward from Morocco’s northern coast and Spain is right there in sight.

The Strait of Gibraltar separates the two by just 14 kilometers at the narrowest point.

Read next: 7 best Morocco tours from Seville

3. Morocco is the same size as California

Morocco and California are similar in size, which means if you’ve traveled to the Golden State, you’ve got an idea of how big Morocco is.

They both cover a lot of ground.

4. The Atlas Mountains were named after a Greek titan

Atlas, the Greek Titan, supposedly held up the sky—and now lends his name to Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

Hike and you’re walking a path from mythology.

5. The flag of Morocco has only 2 colors

Simplicity reigns with Morocco’s flag: a red background with a green pentagram.

Red for hardiness, green for hope and love.

6. Aït Benhaddou features in Gladiator and Game of Thrones

Film buffs will recognize Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It’s stunning and has set the scene in Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Take a tour and step into TV and movie history.

7. Morocco is home to the tallest peak in North Africa

Jebel Toubkal stands tall at 4,167 meters.

That’s the highest point in North Africa, and it’s right here in Morocco. If you’re up for it, it’s a trekker’s paradise.

8. The old part of Fez is the largest living medieval city in the world

Step into Fez’s medina, and you’re walking through the world’s largest active medieval city. It’s like time travel, but real.

9. Morocco has 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Morocco is home to nine UNESCO sites and every one of them tells a story about Morocco’s culture and heritage. Here they are:

Medina of Fez (1981)	Historic City of Meknes (1996)	Medina of Essaouira (2001)
Medina of Marrakech (1985)	Archaeological Site of Volubilis (1997)	Portuguese City of Mazagan (2004)
Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou (1987)	Medina of Tétouan (1997)	Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City (2012)

10. Fes is home to the world’s oldest university from 859

Al Quaraouiyine University in Fes is not only the oldest in Morocco but the whole world.

It was founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri and has been a center of learning for centuries.

11. Marrakech is nicknamed the ‘Red City’

You’ll soon discover why Marrakech is called the ‘Red City’.

Just look at the vibrant terracotta hues of its buildings, a trademark of this vibrant city.

12. Chefchaouen is known for its blue-painted buildings

Your eyes don’t deceive you; the buildings in Chefchaouen really are different shades of blue.

This unique palette turned a small town into a must-see destination.

13. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca has the tallest minaret in Africa

Dominating the skyline, the minaret of the Hassan II Mosque stands tall at 210 meters, making it the tallest in Africa and a symbol of Casablanca’s skyline.

14. The Chouara tannery in Fes has been operating for centuries

Get a sense of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship at the Chouara Tannery in Fes.

It’s a raw insight into ancient practices that have been passed down for generations.

15. Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States in 1777

Morocco was ahead of the curve and didn’t hesitate to extend a hand of friendship to the new United States, becoming the first country to recognize it.

16. Morocco has a monarchy that is over 350 years old

The Moroccan monarchy has seen it all and stood the test of time for over three and a half centuries. That’s a lot of history under its belt.

17. Marrakech, Fes, Meknes, and Rabat are Morocco’s four imperial cities

Each of these cities has had its turn as the nation’s capital.

They are brimming with historical and cultural treasures telling stories of Morocco’s past.

18. The national animal of Morocco is the Barbary lion

Often associated with royalty and strength, the majestic Barbary lion is Morocco’s national animal, although it’s now sadly extinct in the wild.

19. The national sport of Morocco is soccer

Moroccans are passionate about soccer. It’s not just a sport; it’s a national obsession that brings people together.

20. Morocco is a cat country

Take a stroll down any street, and you’re bound to notice that cats are everywhere. They’re a cherished part of daily life in Morocco.

21. Morocco is 99% muslim

Islam is not just a religion but a way of life that influences the country’s customs, laws, and daily routines.

22. Mint tea is the national drink of Morocco

Your trip to Morocco isn’t complete without experiencing the national drink: mint tea.

It’s not just a beverage; it’s a sign of hospitality, friendship, and tradition.

23. Tagine and couscous are traditional Moroccan dishes

Get ready for a taste sensation with Morocco’s traditional dishes.

Tagine, a slow-cooked stew, and couscous, often served on Fridays, are staples you’ve got to try.

24. The djellaba and kaftan are traditional Moroccan clothes

When you walk Moroccan streets, you’ll likely see locals wearing djellabas and kaftans.

These garments are both practical for the climate and steeped in culture.

25. Morocco is a major producer of olives

Morocco isn’t just about spices; it’s also a major player in olive production. If you love olives, you’re in the right place.

26. Ouarzazate is referred to as the ‘Hollywood of Africa’

Ouarzazate is your go-to destination for film buffs. Known as the ‘Hollywood of Africa’, it’s been the filming location for many major movies.

27. Argan oil comes from Morocco

Argan oil — used in everything from cooking to cosmetics — is sourced right from the Argan trees endemic to Morocco.

28. The main languages in Morocco are Arabic, Berber, and French

You’ll hear a mix of languages here. Arabic and Berber are the official ones, but French is widely spoken due to historical influence.

29. Morocco uses Dirhams as its currency

Don’t forget to exchange your money for dirhams, as that’s what you’ll be using for all your purchases in Morocco.

30. Morocco has more active cell phones than people

Here’s a fun fact: there are more cell phones than people in Morocco. There are 49.42 million mobile phone subscribers, out of a population estimated at 36 million people (source).

This underscores the nation’s embrace of technology alongside its rich traditions.

FAQ – Facts about Morocco

What are five fun facts about Morocco?

Here are five fun facts about Morocco:

Morocco’s University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD, is the world’s oldest university.
Chefchaouen is known for its vibrant blue-painted buildings.
The Sahara Desert in Morocco served as a backdrop for films like “Lawrence of Arabia.”
The Atlas Mountains offer spectacular trekking opportunities and cultural experiences.
Moroccan cuisine features iconic dishes such as couscous, tagine, and mint tea.

What is Morocco unique for?

Morocco is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains, historic medinas in cities like Marrakech and Fez, unique architecture blending Moorish and Berber influences, rich cuisine featuring dishes like tagine and couscous, and a tradition of warm hospitality.

What are 2 historical facts about Morocco?

Here are two historical facts about Morocco:

In 788 AD, Morocco became a unified state under the rule of Idris I, founding the Idrisid dynasty, marking the beginning of Moroccan sovereignty.
Marrakech, one of Morocco’s iconic cities, was founded in 1062 by the Almoravids, becoming a cultural and religious center that influenced the western Muslim world for centuries.