Unreal Places in Morocco That Look Like They’re From Another Planet

As a wanderer at heart and your go-to guide to everything enchanting in Morocco, I can't wait to transport you through my words into the midst of landscapes so captivating and unique that they feel like scenes straight out of a sci-fi film. Imagine stepping onto a terrain that whispers tales of the cosmos, places where the earth melds into unexpected colors and forms.

Morocco, my beloved homeland, is universally celebrated for its vibrant marketplaces, the irresistible allure of its historic cities like Marrakech and Fes, and the warm hospitality of its people. However, tucked away from these bustling city scenes, Morocco harbors some truly otherworldly places that look as if they've been sculpted by the hands of extraterrestrial beings.

Erg Chebbi Dunes: A Mars-Like Oasis

Nestled in the southeastern part of Morocco, the Erg Chebbi dunes are a breathtaking spectacle of nature. The dunes are at their most surreal during sunrise and sunset when the sand ignites in vibrant hues of gold and amber. The experience of walking these dunes, with the world around fading into a boundless amphitheater of sand, feels like traversing the surface of Mars.

Travel Tip: For the adventurous souls, a night under the stars at Erg Chebbi is unmissable. Opt for a guided camel trek leading to a Berber camp where you can enjoy local folklore around a fire under a clear desert night sky.

The Ouzoud Waterfalls: A Hidden Lunar Landscape

Balance the red dust of the desert with the refreshingly cool, mesmerizing charm of the Ouzoud Waterfalls. Located within the Grand Atlas village of Tanaghmeilt, these falls plunge dramatically over 110 meters into an endless pool surrounded by greenery. What makes this spot extraterrestrial isn't just the waterfall itself but the journey to it — think of paths dotted with olive trees contrasted against the rugged terracotta terrain, creating a palette that feels strangely lunar yet distinctly Moroccan.

Personal Note: Make sure to catch a glimpse of the resident macaques and if you’re lucky, a rainbow crowning the misty waters — a sight that is simply otherworldly!

Taznakht: The Surreal Salt Flats

Venture into the lesser-known town of Taznakht, where the surrounding areas display an expanse of salt flats that look like the reflective surfaces of a distant ice planet. When the flats flood after a rain, they mirror the sky so perfectly that horizon lines blur, and one cannot tell where the earth ends and the sky begins.

Recommendation: Visit during the cooler months when the mirage effect is at its peak, transforming the view into an ethereal double sky.

Legzira Beach: Sculptures of the Sea

Legzira Beach, with its massive natural sea arches, feels not of this world. Located between Mirleft and Sidi Ifni, the raw power of nature is on full display here. The crimson hue of the arches at sunset transforms the beach into a scene from an alien planet, with the arches looking like portals to another dimension.

Reflection: Why Visit These Outworldly Places?

Visiting these places isn't just about ticking off spots on a travel list; it’s about experiencing the vast diversity and beauty Morocco has to offer beyond the typical. These landscapes teach us about the earth’s history, the power of natural forces, and our place within the cosmos.

Summary Note: Morocco’s mix of dramatic landscapes, from the stark beauty of its deserts and salt flats to the intricate rock sculptures of its coastlines, provides not just a retreat but a profound connection to something larger and more ancient than us. So gear up, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare for an experience that borders on the celestial. The universe, it seems, isn’t just out there — it’s right here in Morocco, waiting for you to discover its marvels.