Diving in Morocco

Al Hoceima

Al Hoceima National Park, nestled on Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, is probably our favourite Moroccan dive destination. It feels like a real secret, especially considering the sheer number of dive sites - 156 of them and almost thirty centres, though many are small, local operations. The diving here is superb, far exceeding what most people expect from this corner of the Med. Think dramatic walls dropping into the blue, intricate reef systems, and some intriguing wrecks, all bathed in surprisingly good visibility for the region. We love Al Hoceima for its unique mix of Atlantic and Mediterranean species; it’s not unusual to spot a slender rockfish darting among colourful cardinal fish, while overhead, Scopoli's Shearwaters skim the surface. Our pick for a truly memorable dive has to be exploring the caves. There's one particular grotto where the light filters through cracks in the ceiling, illuminating schools of tiny lanternfish, making the water glitter like a cosmic dust cloud. It’s a magical experience. You'll often spot the quirky stout bobtail squid here, too, nestled amongst the reddish crabs and Norway lobsters. For those with a keen eye, the chance to see species like the greater lanternshark or a blackmouth catshark makes it a compelling destination. Currents can pick up, especially around the exposed headlands, so it's worth chatting with the local guides to time your dives right. Generally, the summer months offer the calmest conditions and best visibility.