Why I Said Yes to a Solo Backpacking Trip Through Morocco- Part 1 | Tangier

3 days ago
3 min read

My Morocco Diaries: Why I Said Yes to This Adventure

There are moments in life when something inside of you quietly whispers, Go...and for me at least, that's when I know spirit is moving through me.

Something truly incredible happens when you travel to foreign places and have no choice but to surrender fully to the moment, to your surroundings and everything around you... and honestly, nothing makes me feel more alive than that!

I began having dreams that I was there, and while in my wake state, I paid attention to the signs and symbols that kept showing up...all pointing me to Morocco.

With nothing more than a backpack, (my motto was that if it doesn't fit in my backpack, it doesn't go) an open mind, and a sense of curiosity, I boarded a plane and began a journey that would eventually take me from the bustling streets of Tangier to the blue city of Chefchaouen, through the ancient alleys of Fez, and ultimately into the Sahara Desert.

But at the time, I had no idea where the journey would lead, and I was open to wandering. I truly think that is the best way to travel, lightweight and with an open mind! That's where the magic happens!

And arriving alone...felt so freeing and exciting!

I simply said yes.

My first stop was Tangier.

Located just outside Tangier, the Caves of Hercules are believed to have been inhabited since prehistoric times and later used by the Phoenicians, who carved millstones from the rock. According to Greek mythology, the cave was the resting place of Hercules before completing his eleventh labor, and its famous sea-facing opening resembles the shape of the African continent. This place was so special! And that fresh sea breeze was everything after long hours in flight!

Travel has a way of humbling you.

It reminds you that there are countless ways to live, countless stories to hear, and countless opportunities to expand if we are willing to remain curious.

After seeing the caves immediately after landing, I didn't waste much time, jumped in my car and began my journey south to Chefchaouen. I loved my little rental car, and so much fun exploring in it!

As I wandered through Tangier, I realized something.

Adventure isn’t always about checking places off a bucket list.

It’s about becoming unafraid to be alive, because in this trip I felt more alive than ever!

It’s about stepping outside of your routines and allowing yourself to experience wonder again.

It’s about trusting that growth often begins with a single courageous yes.

So many people wait until they have everything figured out before they begin.

But I’ve learned that life doesn’t usually work that way.

Sometimes the answers arrive after the first step.

Sometimes the greatest gifts come wrapped in uncertainty.

So as I look back I realize I didn't just say yes to a trip, but to my own unfolding through the trip and all the incredible lessons it taught me.

And sometimes, a single plane ticket becomes the beginning of a story you’ll carry with you forever.

At the time, I had no idea where this journey was going to lead me and all that would happen along they way, through my many stops.

I had no idea that I would eventually wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen, lose myself in the ancient city of Fez, or find myself beneath the stars of the Sahara Desert experiencing one of the most unforgettable nights of my life.

But that’s a story for later this week!

Until then, may you trust the whispers that invite you toward a life that feels more alive!

Sometimes all that’s required is the courage to say yes.

Stay spirited.

♡ Kimberly XO

Coming up later this week on the blog : The Blue Village of Chefchaouen, The Spice Markets and Beautiful Colors of Fez, and Wild Journey to the Sahara. S

🌿 Thinking about visiting Morocco?

I’m creating a Spirited Morocco Guide filled with favorite places, travel tips, and reflections from the journey.

Stay tuned for the full guide later this week!