A Calm Start Into Our First Full Day in Morocco

We began the morning with a simple but welcome breakfast at our accommodation — coffee, fresh baguette and a bit of spread. Despite Ramadan, our hosts made sure we had something to start the day with. It was a relaxed beginning, even though our internal “rally rhythm” still wakes us earlier than necessary.

With everything packed, we set off toward Rabat, ready for our first real impressions of Morocco beyond the motorway.

On the Road Toward Rabat

Even on the highway, the differences to Europe became immediately visible. People walk along the roadside, life happening close to the traffic, and we saw several stray dogs. At the same time, after the recent heavy rainfall, the landscape was unexpectedly green and blooming — a vibrant start to the day’s journey.

Arriving in Rabat

Reaching Rabat, the city was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2012, meant navigating through noticeably denser traffic. Still, for what we expected from a large North African city and capital, it was surprisingly manageable — more chaotic than European standards, but structured enough to keep moving.

Finding parking near the Hassan Tower took a few loops around the area, but eventually we found a spot just behind another rally team, Team Marty, who apparently had the same sightseeing plans.

The Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V

From there, we walked to the impressive Hassan Tower, one of Rabat’s most iconic landmarks. The large esplanade around it, the columns, and the visible remains of what was once intended to be one of the world’s largest mosques make the site feel vast and monumental. Security was present everywhere — horse guards, soldiers, ceremonial staff — all forming part of the atmosphere.

We were allowed to enter the Mausoleum of Mohammed V next door, a beautifully crafted structure of white marble, intricate details and peaceful symmetry. The setting was elegant, quiet, and — perhaps thanks to Ramadan — pleasantly uncrowded.

Through the Medina of Rabat

After visiting the two major landmarks, we continued by foot into the Medina, Rabat’s old town. The narrow alleyways were lively but calm, lined with small shops selling everything from food and daily necessities to clothing and leather goods. Unlike the busy tourist markets of other cities, Rabat felt local and relaxed. No aggressive sales pitches, no pressure — just everyday life flowing around us.

We wandered through the Medina until we reached a school where students were on their lunch break, filling the streets with energy and chatter. From there, we continued toward a viewpoint overlooking the old harbor and fishing boats, enjoying the coastal breeze before heading back to the car.

For our lunch, we bought flatbread and bananas within the Medina and enjoyed a simple meal within our car in respect for the Ramadan.

Southbound Toward Marrakesh

Leaving Rabat, the road first followed the coastline before turning inland toward Marrakesh. We made a brief stop at the cliffs just outside the city to watch the waves crash against the rocks — a powerful contrast to the calm city walk earlier.

From there, we continued for another three hours through changing landscapes, eventually reaching Marrakesh in the early evening. The traffic here was noticeably more complex and chaotic than in Rabat, but as a team we navigated it well and reached our hotel safely.

Evening in Marrakesh

Since tomorrow will be a rest day, we chose a slightly more comfortable hotel, and the car is parked safely for the night. Later, we walked to a rooftop terrace for dinner, where we enjoyed a quiet evening overlooking the city and letting the day fade out.

Tomorrow, we’ll explore Marrakesh — and we’re already curious about what awaits us.