First Trip to North Africa: Egypt, Morocco or Tunisia?
If you’re venturing into North Africa for the first time, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia are likely at the top of your list. Each of these countries is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering unique experiences that will leave a lasting impression. But which one should you visit first? Let’s compare Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia to help you make the best decision for your first trip to North Africa.
Whichever destination you choose, here’s our itineraries for Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia.
History, Culture, and Natural Beauty
Egypt: Egypt is a living museum of ancient civilisation. Known for the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt offers a unique opportunity to explore the cradle of human history. The ancient temples, monuments, and tombs tell stories of the Pharaohs, with highlights like Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel. Beyond the historical sites, Egypt’s landscape is dominated by desert, with the Nile River as the country’s lifeblood. A Nile cruise is a popular way to see the ancient temples and tombs, and the vast Sahara Desert provides an almost otherworldly environment with towering sand dunes and oases. Egypt also offers coastal resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, where you can enjoy the beautiful Red Sea for diving and water sports.
Morocco: Morocco is a land of contrast, offering both rich history and diverse landscapes. Known for its colourful souks, ancient medinas, and beautiful palaces, Morocco blends Berber, Arab, and French colonial influences. Key attractions include the ancient city of Marrakech, the blue city of Chefchaouen, and the Atlas Mountains. Moroccan culture is vibrant and diverse, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and arts. The country’s natural beauty is equally varied. The Sahara Desert offers camel treks and stunning sunsets over golden dunes, while the Atlas and Rif mountains offer opportunities for hiking and even skiing in winter. The coastal city of Essaouira adds a milder climate and a charming historical medina by the sea.
Tunisia: Tunisia is often less explored than its neighbours but offers a fascinating blend of Mediterranean, Roman, and Islamic influences. The ruins of ancient Carthage, the Roman amphitheatre of El Djem, and the historic medina of Tunis are a window into Tunisia’s rich past. The country’s landscape is equally diverse, from the Mediterranean beaches of Sousse to the dramatic landscapes of the Tunisian Sahara. The Tozeur oasis, salt flats, and palm groves create unique vistas, while the Atlas Mountains provide more dramatic views and hiking opportunities. Tunisia’s natural beauty offers a quieter, less tourist-heavy alternative to Egypt and Morocco, but with just as much historical and cultural intrigue.
Verdict: Egypt is perfect if you’re a history enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in ancient wonders, paired with iconic desert landscapes and the Nile River. Morocco offers a dynamic mix of ancient history and diverse landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and coastlines. Tunisia is a more tranquil and affordable alternative, with fascinating Roman and Islamic history, along with a beautiful, varied landscape.
Food and Cuisine
Egypt: Egyptian cuisine is hearty and comforting, with dishes that reflect both Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Staples like koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, and pasta) and ful (fava beans) are popular, alongside grilled meats, falafel, and kebabs. The food in Egypt is flavourful but tends to be less complex compared to some of its North African neighbours. Street food is an essential part of the experience, offering a chance to try local favourites at budget-friendly prices.
Morocco: Moroccan cuisine is world-renowned for its complex and aromatic flavours. The use of spices such as cumin, saffron, and cinnamon creates rich, deep flavours. Dishes like tagine (a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and fruit) and couscous are iconic, while the famous Moroccan mint tea is a symbol of hospitality. The bustling medinas are full of food stalls offering a rich tapestry of flavours, and the diverse influences from Berber, Arab, and French cultures make Moroccan cuisine both diverse and delicious.
Tunisia: Tunisian cuisine shares many similarities with other North African cuisines but has a unique twist. It is known for its bold, spicy flavours, with harissa (a hot chilli paste) being a key ingredient. Couscous is also a staple, often served with lamb or fish, and brik (a type of pastry filled with egg and tuna) is a popular snack. Tunisia’s Mediterranean influence adds fresh seafood to the menu, while traditional stews and soups provide hearty and comforting meals. Tunisian food tends to be spicier and more vibrant compared to Egyptian fare.
Verdict: If you’re a fan of bold, aromatic flavours and complex spices, Morocco will be a culinary delight. Egypt offers hearty and simple meals, perfect for those looking for comfort food. Tunisia provides a unique blend of Mediterranean and North African flavours, with a stronger emphasis on spicy dishes.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
Egypt: Egypt has a well-established tourist infrastructure, particularly in Cairo, Luxor, and along the Red Sea coast. International flights to Cairo are frequent, and public transport is available, though it can be crowded and chaotic. The country’s tourism industry is geared towards foreign visitors, with many English-speaking guides and services available.
Morocco: Morocco is well-equipped for tourists, with major cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fez easily accessible by air, train, and bus. The train system is efficient and connects many of the country’s major cities. Morocco is often considered more manageable in terms of transportation compared to Egypt, with less chaotic crowds and a more stable infrastructure.
Tunisia: Tunisia is similarly well-equipped for tourists, with major cities like Tunis, Sousse, and Djerba easily accessible by air and bus. Tunisia’s transport system is relatively straightforward, and the country is generally safe and easy to navigate for first-time travellers. Tunisia is a little less tourist-heavy than Egypt or Morocco, which can mean a more relaxed experience.
Verdict: Morocco may be slightly easier to navigate for first-time travellers due to its smoother infrastructure. Egypt offers a more immersive historical experience but can be more challenging to navigate. Tunisia is also a great option for those looking for a quieter, less crowded destination, with a simple transport system and a friendly atmosphere.
Travelling With or Without Children
Egypt: Egypt is a fantastic destination for older children and teenagers, especially those with an interest in history. The Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Nile cruises can be both educational and awe-inspiring. However, younger children may find the long distances between major attractions and the intense heat challenging. The busy streets of Cairo and the need for careful planning, such as navigating crowded spaces, can be overwhelming for families with young kids. For a more relaxed experience, beach resorts in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada offer family-friendly facilities with swimming pools and water sports.
Morocco: Morocco offers a more manageable experience for families with children of all ages. The shorter distances between major attractions make travel easier, and the country’s lively souks and colourful markets can be fun for kids. The bustling alleyways in the medinas may require close supervision, but outdoor activities like camel rides in the Sahara and hiking in the Atlas Mountains provide exciting yet accessible adventures for children. Many hotels and riads offer family-friendly amenities, and the food is generally mild, making it easy to cater to younger palates.
Tunisia: Tunisia is also a great option for families, particularly those with younger children. The country’s relaxed pace and the shorter distances between major attractions make it easier to navigate. The beaches in cities like Sousse are perfect for family relaxation, while historical sites like Carthage and El Djem can spark the imagination of older children. Tunisia’s family-friendly hotels and resorts provide spacious accommodations, and the local cuisine is typically mild enough for kids to enjoy.
Verdict: Morocco is the most family-friendly destination due to its manageable travel distances, diverse activities, and kid-friendly accommodations. Tunisia offers a quieter and more relaxed experience, with great beach resorts and easy logistics. Egypt is better suited for families with older children or those interested in historical education, but may require more planning for younger travellers due to the hot climate and long travel distances.
Conclusion: Egypt, Morocco, or Tunisia?
Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia each offer incredible experiences for first-time travellers to North Africa. Egypt is perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in ancient history and iconic landscapes. Morocco offers a rich cultural experience with diverse landscapes, vibrant markets, and unique cuisine. Tunisia, while less crowded, provides a fascinating mix of Mediterranean and Roman history, paired with a stunning natural landscape that is more laid-back and affordable.
Ultimately, the best destination depends on the type of experience you're seeking, but regardless of which country you choose, North Africa is waiting for you.
