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Destination Morocco Podcast

Destination Morocco Podcast is where real trip-planning happens. Hosted by Azdean Elmoustaquim, a native Moroccan who's spent years showing travelers his country beyond the postcard version, each episode digs into the details that actually matter when you're planning a trip — what a private riad costs versus a hotel, how much a night in the Sahara really runs, which mountain towns are worth the detour, and how to avoid the mistakes first-time visitors make. With over 120+ episodes and counting, Azdean talks directly with hotel owners, desert camp operators, local guides, and fellow travelers to bring you honest, on-the-ground insight you won't find in a glossy brochure or a generic travel blog. Whether you're mapping out your first trip to Morocco or refining an itinerary you've been dreaming about for years, this podcast is built to help you plan smarter — and if you want hands-on help, every episode links to a free 30-minute consultation to start planning your own custom trip.

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Explore, Discover, Experience Morocco

Destination Morocco Podcast

Destination Morocco Podcast invites listeners to explore the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the vibrant history of Morocco with native guide Azdean Elmoustaquim. Each episode is packed with essential tips, local insights, and personal experiences to help you travel like a native.

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What to Prepare After you Book Your Trip

114

Aug. 1, 2026

What to Prepare After you Book Your Trip

You've done the research, asked around, made some calls and booked the trip. It's happening! You're going to Morocco! Okay - what happens next? Today our focus is on the steps to complete after you've reserved the trip, and can shift into preparation mode. What to expect, what to plan, who to talk to and important things to prepare. Azdean and podcast producer Ted cover topics such as travel documentation, safety measures, special accommodation considerations like access and mobility, health ...

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113

July 15, 2026

Typical Travel Costs in Morocco

It can be hard to get a clear picture, so our episode today is here to help: "How much do things cost in Morocco?" As much as there's the standard answer, "It depends," we go a little deeper than that and try to frame costs around certain standards and levels of service. Whether that means different types of accommodation, the cost of meals at sit-down restaurants, do desert camps vary greatly in price, how much are activities such as a Hot Air Balloon ride, and lots more. There are a couple ...

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The Luxury Resort in the High Atlas Mountains

112

July 1, 2026

The Luxury Resort in the High Atlas Mountains

Nestled in the High Atlas mountains northeast of Marrakech is the Bin el-Ouidane reservoir, one of the largest lakes in Morocco. Surrounded by foothills, ravines and gorges, waterfalls and snowy peaks, this is one of the most visually stunning yet accessible areas in the country, with easy hiking trails and water activities. You might think therefore that it's a prominent stop on Morocco's tourist path, but it's not. Yet. Although well-located between Marrakech and Casablanca, it does represen

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How to Find Authentic Argan Oil in Morocco

111

June 15, 2026

How to Find Authentic Argan Oil in Morocco

Discover the versatile and distinctly Moroccan product of Argan Oil in this episode of Destination Morocco podcast, recorded live at the Zin Cooperative, just outside of Essaouira. Argan oil can be pressed into both edible or cosmetic use, and our guest Chiadma explains the different methods of production, and how they know which is which. But we also talk about how to find authentic argan oil, because there are a lot of fake rip offs. Chiadma shares a story of how, before she started working

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A Group Tour That's Small and Affordable!

110

June 1, 2026

A Group Tour That's Small and Affordable!

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "Get the Best of Independent and Group Travel" --- Come to Morocco this year, with our small group tour in November, and experience the best of Morocco in safety, comfort and convenience, while sharing a wonderful experience with new friends! November 8-15, 2026: we want to bring you to Morocco! This is no 50-person coach tour that is hustled along from stop to stop, with constant waiting and delays, forc...

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Booking Travel to Morocco? What You Need to Know

109

May 15, 2026

Booking Travel to Morocco? What You Need to Know

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "Booking Travel to Morocco? What You Need to Know" --- Whether you're a travel agent fielding questions from your clients, or an independent traveller fielding concerns from family and friends, Morocco's a destination that is still overcoming stereotypes and misconceptions, some of which have been around for decades. The recent exposure to the country, in particular thanks to big soccer results and events, not t...

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"Every Carpet Has a Story" - Local Travel in Morocco, with Kristy Burns (Small Town Travel podcast)

108

May 1, 2026

"Every Carpet Has a Story" - Local Travel in Morocco, with Kristy Burns (Small Town Travel podcast)

Azdean visits Kristy Burns' Small Town Travels podcast to talk about how travellers can have a unique, and authentic, local experience in Morocco, on private and small group tours, like the ones offered by Destinations Morocco. Travel Small Towns takes the hook of travelling to small towns and integrates it with themes of things to see and do off the beaten path, away from big touristy sites, while exploring the lifestyle of small towns, and more accessible living. The notion of having ...

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Staying Warm, Staying Comfortable in Morocco

107

April 15, 2026

Staying Warm, Staying Comfortable in Morocco

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "Staying Warm, Staying Comfortable in Morocco" --- A destination like Morocco is instantly one that inspires adventure, excitement and discovery. Pushing your comfort zone and experiencing something new and different. But it's one thing to try some new food or sleep in a luxury tent in the desert, it's another to have not known to bring warm enough clothes, or to be stuck climbing multiple flights of stai...

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106

April 1, 2026

Is Morocco Safe to Travel Right Now?

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "April, 2026: Is Morocco Safe for Travel?" --- With the conflict happening between Iran and the US/Israel, and travel routes and logistics facing all kind of upheaval, we recognized here at Destinations Morocco that it's important to address what's happening and how it could impact Morocco. Is it still safe to travel to Morocco? How close is the country to the conflict? Has anything changed on the ground?...

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A Great Way to Experience Morocco for the First Time

105

March 15, 2026

A Great Way to Experience Morocco for the First Time

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "A Great Way to Experience Morocco for the First Time" --- Kyle Elizabeth Freeman travelled to Morocco on a solo trip over the Christmas holidays 2025, a potentially tricky time to go! As Azdean always says, things over Christmas/New Year's can be booked up months in advance, and not just accommodation, but tours, guides and attractions as well. And on top of that, this was right in the middle of Morocco ...

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How Do You Fix Travel Problems When You're in Morocco?

104

March 1, 2026

How Do You Fix Travel Problems When You're in Morocco?

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "An Honest Take on Travel in Morocco" --- Jill Smith and her partner Gary traveled to Morocco just before Christmas, 2025, on a southern tour: Marrakech, Merzouga, Ouarzazate and the High Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira, too. It was mostly amazing, with parts a little frustrating, and she's here today to share with us how it went. We wanted an honest assessment of their time in Morocco, because we al...

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This November, Join Us On a Tour to Morocco!

103

Feb. 15, 2026

This November, Join Us On a Tour to Morocco!

You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "This November, Join us on a Tour to Morocco!" --- This November is the moment to get yourself to Morocco, with our new small group tour! For an intimate yet affordable travel experience, our tour this November 8-15, 2026 offers you a tremendous way to visit Morocco. This is no 50-person coach tour that is hustled along from stop to stop, with constant waiting and delays. Build friendships and memories th...

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About the Host

Azdean Elmoustaquim

Co-Founder

Meet Azdean Elmoustaquim: Your Native Guide to the Real Morocco!

Marhaba! I'm Azdean Elmoustaquim. My story begins in the heart of Morocco, the vibrant Imperial city of Marrakech where I was born and raised. My family roots trace back to the small Berber village of Telouet, nestled in the High Atlas mountains near Ouarzazate – a place of deep tradition and connection to the land that I often visited during childhood summers. Though life led me to the United States in 1995, settling in Houston, Texas, my homeland never left my heart. After years in the hospitality industry, the call to share the authentic beauty, rich culture, and unparalleled warmth of Morocco became too strong to ignore. This wasn't about showcasing tourist traps; it was about revealing the real Morocco, the one I knew and loved.

Reviews

Save time and money and book with Destination Morocco!

"I recently posted asking for recommendations for a trip to Morocco and received many responses. I followed up and spoke with many helpful guides and tour agencies, but I want to share about one perso…"

Beth Rami | Sept. 8, 2022

Love this podcast!

"So excited to learn about this podcast! Keep it up Azdean!"

Brian from Akron | Sept. 30, 2022

Traveling in Morocco's as guests and not as tourists

"Good morning, Sam/Azdean Harmony and I want to thank you both for organizing such a wonderful experience for us! We had an incredible time. Ilyas and Ahmed were exceptional. Ahmed took very good c…"

Pablo Juarez | Oct. 11, 2022

A beautiful country and people

"Loved it and even went on a trip with them. The pidcast really brought Morocco to life and we felt that on our trip with efficiency, flexibility, and culture."

Chantal | Jan. 14, 2023

A beautiful country and people

"Loved it and even went on a trip with them. The podcast really brought Morocco to life and we felt that on our trip with efficiency, flexibility, and culture."

Chantal | Jan. 14, 2023

A fantastic experience!

"I highly recommend Destination Morocco tour operator for anyone planning a trip to Morocco. My family and I had an amazing time and experience thanks to their expert planning and organization. We wer…"

Arjun Gupta | Jan. 23, 2023

Great for trip planning!!!

"Love this podcast!! I have been listening to this podcast all week and it’s SO Helpful while planning my trip! Thank you!!"

T Danzig | March 3, 2023

Tour: Majestic Morocco Discovery

"I cannot express how incredible my experience with Destination Morocco was. From the moment I inquired about the Majestic Morocco Discovery tour, the team was responsive and attentive. The itinerary …"

Emily Johnson | Aug. 17, 2023

Imperial Cities Expedition

"I recently embarked on the Imperial Cities Expedition organized by Destination Morocco, and I am beyond impressed. The attention to detail was evident from start to finish, Sam was super helpful and …"

Carlos Rodriguez | Aug. 17, 2023

Activities and Advice for Travel In and Around Marrakech

"I stumbled upon the "Destination Morocco Podcast" while planning my trip to Marrakech, and I'm so glad I did. The episode " Activities and Advice for Travel In and Around Marrakech" was an absolute …"

Alex Mitchell | Aug. 17, 2023

Great for travelers and dreamers

"This podcast is perfect for those with an upcoming trip to Morocco or just those who love to travel and are dreaming of a trip! I leave for Morocco in a few months and this podcast helped me make som…"

Madsss | Jan. 9, 2024

A solo female traveler in her late 20s

"My name is Emily, and I’m a solo traveler. I was initially hesitant about exploring Morocco. But after listening to Destination Morocco Podcast, visiting their website, and talking to Azdean few time…"

Emily Stanton | Dec. 10, 2024

7 Days in Unforgettable Marrakech

"We were very concerned about navigating the bustling souks and haggling with vendors, wanted to avoid crowds, and desired authentic cultural interactions. Destination Morocco arranged a private riad…"

John and Mary Fraser | Dec. 10, 2024

7 Day Exploration of Trekking and Morocco's Hidden Villages

"• This trekking adventure was epic! Destination Morocco pushed us to our limits while ensuring our safety and comfort. The scenery was breathtaking, and the cultural immersion in the Berber villages …"

Nancy Porter | Jan. 8, 2025

This trip was a life-changing experience for our family!

"Destination Morocco took us off the beaten path and showed us the real Morocco. Our teenagers were captivated by the desert landscapes, the camel trek, the two days we spent in Merzouga were incredib…"

Amanda Murphy | Jan. 8, 2025

As a history enthusiast, this tour was a dream come true!

"Destination Morocco's expertise in Moroccan history was evident in the carefully curated itinerary. My partner and I gained a deep understanding of the country's fascinating past, and our certified n…"

Kim Parks | Jan. 8, 2025

First-Timer

"The sheer volume of information online about Morocco was paralyzing. We didn't know where to start! The podcast gave us the structure we needed, and booking with Destinations Morocco took it from '…"

Marc and Lisa | Oct. 1, 2025

Older Couple

"Amy and I aren't backpackers anymore! We needed comfort and a pace that was enjoyable, we didn't want to be in a different city every night, Azdean understoot that when building our itinerary. Our…"

Chad and Amy Roberts | Oct. 1, 2025

Great Show

"I'm looking forwards to hearing more about Morocco, it's on my bucket list!"

Mark Jordan | Aug. 14, 2021

The trip was wonderful

"Our driver and local guides were excellent. Having a plan and private driver made everything very easy and flexible. We didn’t have to worry about anything it just happened smoothly and in a timely…"

Rochelle and Chris Mellsop | Oct. 5, 2025

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Destination Morocco Podcast

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