Where to pull over for the most Instagram-worthy shots in Morocco.
Morocco is ridiculously photogenic, and knowing where to stop makes all the difference between good photos and incredible ones. Starting with the Tizi n'Tichka pass between Marrakech and Ouarzazate - the viewpoint around kilometer 75 (roughly halfway up) offers sweeping mountain vistas. The series of hairpin turns near the top photograph beautifully from several pullouts. Best light is early morning or late afternoon when shadows create dimension. On the Essaouira road, the argan tree areas make unique shots, especially if you catch goats in the trees (happens genuinely around km 65). The approach to Essaouira itself has coastal viewpoints worth stopping for. In the Dadès Valley, the 'Monkey Fingers' switchbacks are famous - shoot from the bottom looking up for the best composition. In Todra Gorge, walk into the canyon for dramatic shots of the sheer rock walls - midday light illuminates the canyon floor. For the Sahara, Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are most photogenic at sunrise and sunset - the contrast between light and shadow on rippled sand is magical. The blue city of Chefchaouen is impossibly photogenic - park outside the medina and wander the blue-washed streets. The Spanish Mosque viewpoint above town offers sunset views over the entire city. Ait Benhaddou photographs best from across the river looking up at the ksar, especially late afternoon when earthen walls glow golden. Imlil in the Atlas Mountains gives you Mount Toubkal as a backdrop - the terraced fields and traditional stone buildings make gorgeous compositions. On the coast near Sidi Ifni, dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic - there are several unmarked pullouts with wild, windswept views. The Ourika Valley in spring is incredibly green with snow-capped peaks behind - multiple photo-worthy spots along the entire road. Pro tips: shoot in golden hour (hour after sunrise, hour before sunset) for the best light. Use a polarizing filter to enhance blue skies and reduce haze. Include people or vehicles for scale in landscape shots. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas. GPS coordinates for specific viewpoints are available in photography forums online. Bring lens wipes - dust is constant in Morocco and ruins shots. The variety of landscapes means every day of driving offers new photographic opportunities.