The Full Story

Morocco is a North African country that has a coastline on both the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has borders with Western Sahara to the south, Algeria to the east, and the Spanish North African territories of Ceuta and Melilla on the Mediterranean coast in the north. It is just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Gibraltar.

 

Understand

Ethnically speaking, Morocco is composed mainly of Arabs and Berbers or a mixture of the two. Sizeable numbers of Berbers live mainly in the country’s mountainous regions, long areas of refuge where they have preserved their language and culture. Some segments of the population are descendants of refugees from Spain and Portugal who fled from the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula, that spanned until the 15th century.

Morocco’s long struggle for independence from France ended in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier was turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco annexed much of the Western Sahara, a former territory of Spain, in 1975.

Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature in 1997, although the King still possesses the actual political power. The press is mostly state-controlled, even though there are free newspapers, and clampdowns have occurred following criticism of the authorities or articles concerning the Western Sahara situation.

The foreign policy of independent Morocco has often differed from that of its Arab neighbors. Throughout the Cold War, Morocco generally sided with the Western European powers and the United States rather than with the Eastern bloc, whereas other Arab states usually chose neutral or pro-Soviet positions.

The major resources of the Moroccan economy are agriculture, phosphates, tourism, and textiles.

Critical development challenges include lingering widespread corruption and improving the education system.

Holidays

The biggest event on the Moroccan calendar is the month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast during the daytime and break the fast at sunset. Most restaurants are closed for lunch (with the exception of those catering specifically to tourists) and things generally slow down. Traveling during this time is entirely possible, and the restrictions don’t apply to non-Muslims, but it’s respectful to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the fast. At the end of the month is the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, when practically everything closes for as long as a week and transport is packed as everybody heads back home. Although alcohol consumption is not prohibited for tourists during Ramadan, only a few restaurants and bars serve alcohol. In addition, alcohol can be purchased in a supermarket if a tourist shows their passport to the staff (Moroccans are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol during the holy month).

 

  Cities:

Rabat – The capital of Morocco; very relaxed and hassle-free, highlights include a 12th-century tower and minaret.

Casablanca – This modern city by the sea is a starting point for visitors flying into the country. If you have the time, both the historical medina and the contemporary mosque (the third largest in the world) are well worth an afternoon

Fez – Fez is the former capital of Morocco and one of the oldest and largest medieval cities in the world.

Marrakech (Marrakesh)– Marrakech is a perfect combination of old and new Morocco. Plan to spend at least a few days wandering the huge maze of souks and ruins in the medina. The great plaza of Djeema El Fna at dusk is not to be missed although the sheer number and concentration of tourists may be off-putting for some.

Meknes – A laid-back city that offers a welcome break from the tourist crush of neighboring Fez. Was once an imperial capital and retains its extensive walls and an “old city” smaller yet similar to that of Fez. There are a number of vineyards in the area around Meknes.

Ouarzazate – Considered the Capital of the South, Ouarzazate is a great example of preservation and tourism that hasn’t destroyed the feel of a fantastic and ancient city.

Tangier –Tangier is the starting point for most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain. An enigmatic charm that has historically attracted numerous artists (Matisse), musicians (Hendrix), politicians (Churchill), writers (Burroughs, Twain), and others (Malcolm Forbes).

Taroudant– A southern market town.

Tetouan has nice beaches and is the gateway to the Rif Mountains.

Al Hoceima – Beach town on the Mediterranean coast

Agadir – Agadir is best known for its beaches. The town is a nice example of modern Morocco, with less emphasis on history and culture. Take the local bus for MAD5/10 to the northern towns of Auorir and Tamraght where there are great beaches.

Amizmiz – With one of the largest Berber souks in the High Atlas Mountains every Tuesday, Amizmiz is a popular destination for travelers looking for a day trip that is easily accessible (about an hour) from Marrakech

Chefchaouen – A mountain town just inland from Tangier full of white-washed winding alleys, blue doors, and olive trees,

Chefchaouen is clean as a postcard and a welcome escape from Tangier, evoking the feeling of a Greek island

Essaouira – An ancient seaside town newly rediscovered by tourists. From mid-June to August the beaches are packed but any other time and you’ll be the only person there. Good music and great people. Nearest Coast from Marrakech

Imouzzer is a traditional Berber town perched in the Atlas mountains, with beautiful scenery, and a wonderful waterfall. Excellent handicrafts, argan oil, and Berber jewelry.

Merzouga and M’Hamid – From either of these two settlements at the edge of the Sahara, ride a camel or 4×4 into the desert for a night (or a week) among the dunes and under the stars

Tineghir – This town is the perfect point of access to the stunning High Atlas

 

Culture

Moroccan culture is rich in history, the arts, and sciences. Throughout Morocco, there is a wide choice of museums such as The Museum of Antiquities and The Ethnographic Museum in Tetouan. Another favorite stop is the Museum of Moroccan Art, which houses on display unique collections of glass objects, manuscripts, exquisite carpets, jewelry, pottery, and ancient manuscripts. For those enjoying live performances, Morocco has many wonderful theatres that present classic, translated, and reworked productions of Western classics such as Shakespeare to modern productions of Moroccan plays that are filled with the country’s tradition and folklore. Unique theatrical venues include the Alliance Franco-Marocaine Theater and the Teatro de Cervantes. Popular outdoor festivals also abound with performances held at the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival and the Amazigh Theater Festival in Casablanca. Seekers of outdoor adventure may wish to explore the wonderful national parks and reserves of Morocco, such as Souss Massa National Park and the Mediterranean Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve established through UNESCO. A more detailed review of these and other parks can be found by reading our section on National Parks.

 

What Morocco Offers for Tourists

Morocco offers a taste of exotica for travelers who are interested in discovering a moderate Muslim country. Morocco is the only North African country that offers tradition and modernity in the 21st century. Morocco boasts a combination of natural wonders, windy old medinas, and an immense history. The top 10 places not to miss, when traveling to Morocco are Djemaa El Fna Square, the Majorelle Gardens, the Mosque of Koutoubia, the Erg Chebbi Dunes, the Cascades D'Ouzoud Waterfalls, the Roman Ruins of Volubilis, the Todra Gorge, Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, Kasbah Taourirt and the Batha Museum and Gardens. Morocco's ancient kasbahs, Roman ruins, breathtaking waterfalls, camel treks, overnight stays in the Sahara by an oasis, and mountainous regions where one can hike or ski make it a diversified place to consider traveling to for a Morocco Private Tour.

 

Accommodation

Morocco has a variety of accommodations from which to choose. In the larger cities, such as Casablanca and Tangier, there are a number of international hotels including the Ramada, Sheraton,  and Hyatt Regency. However, throughout all of the major cities and in the metropolitan centers of Morocco, excellent five-star hotels that offer the luxury of their international counterparts but with local charm and hospitality are available. Many travelers find that the best accommodations in Morocco are Riads, which are traditional Morocco homes that have been converted into small hotels and private guest houses. Riads are usually located inside the older districts throughout Morocco which are steeped in culture.

 

Morocco activities

Morocco offers activities such as exploring the vibrant markets (souks) in cities like Marrakech, visiting historical sites like the Atlas Mountains, experiencing the unique architecture in cities like Fes, camel trekking in the Sahara Desert, and enjoying traditional Moroccan cuisine. Additionally, taking part in cultural events, like music festivals and traditional performances, can offer a rich experience.

Exploring Marrakech: Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa, a bustling square with street performers, food stalls, and traditional musicians.

Wander through the historic Medina, exploring narrow alleys filled with shops selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

Discover the beautiful Majorelle Garden and the Bahia Palace.​

Historical Sites in Fes: Explore the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali, one of the world's oldest and largest medieval cities.

Visit the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University, dating back to the 9th century.

Atlas Mountains: Take a trek in the Atlas Mountains, experiencing breathtaking landscapes and traditional Berber villages.

Visit the Ourika Valley for stunning waterfalls and scenic views.

Sahara Desert Adventure: Embark on a camel trek in the Sahara Desert, experiencing the vast dunes and camping under the stars.

Explore the desert towns of Merzouga and Zagora.

Coastal Towns: Relax in seaside towns like Essaouira, known for its charming medina and Atlantic Ocean beaches.​

Cuisine and Culinary Tours: Sample Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, couscous, and mint tea.

Take part in cooking classes to learn about traditional recipes.

Cultural Events: Attend local festivals and events, such as the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira or the Rose Festival in Kelaat M'Gouna.​

Shopping in Souks: Bargain for unique items in the souks, from handmade carpets and leather goods to spices and ceramics.

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⚠️Remember, Morocco offers diverse experiences, from the vibrant cities to the serene landscapes, providing a rich tapestry of culture and history for travelers to explore.​

Hiking and Trekking: Explore the Toubkal National Park, home to the highest peak in North Africa, Mount Toubkal. Hiking trails offer stunning vistas.​

Dades and Todra Gorges: Visit the dramatic Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge, known for their impressive rock formations and scenic landscapes.

Historic Cities: Besides Marrakech and Fes, explore other historic cities like Rabat, the capital, known for its medieval fortifications, and Meknes with its imperial architecture.

Kasbahs and Oases: Discover ancient Kasbahs like Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore lush oases like the Palmeraie near Marrakech.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience Morocco's landscapes from a different perspective with a hot air balloon ride, providing panoramic views of valleys and dunes.​

Beach Activities: Enjoy water activities in coastal areas like Agadir or Taghazout, known for surfing, windsurfing, and relaxing on sandy beaches.​

Art and Museums: Visit contemporary art galleries in cities like Casablanca and explore museums like the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Fes.​

Spa and Hammam Experiences: Indulge in traditional Moroccan spa treatments and hammams for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Wildlife Watching: Explore the diverse ecosystems, including birdwatching in the Souss Massa National Park and observing Barbary macaques in the Middle Atlas Mountains.

Film Tourism: Visit locations featured in famous films and TV series shot in Morocco, such as "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones."​

Photography Tours: Capture the vibrant colors, intricate details, and diverse landscapes through photography tours tailored for enthusiasts.

Wander the Ouarzazate Kasbahs: Ouarzazate is known as the "Gateway to the Sahara" and boasts impressive kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou. Explore the film studios and nearby historic sites.​

Attend a Traditional Moroccan Tea Ceremony: Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture by participating in a traditional tea ceremony. It's a social ritual that involves the preparation and serving of mint tea.

Visit the Roman Ruins of Volubilis: Explore the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved ruins and mosaics.

Horseback Riding in Essaouira: Enjoy a horseback riding excursion along the beaches of Essaouira, offering a serene way to appreciate the coastal beauty.​

Attend a Traditional Gnawa Music Performance: Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of Gnawa music, an ancient African spiritual tradition. Many cities, especially Essaouira, host live performances.

Discover the Chellah Necropolis: Explore the ancient ruins of Chellah, an archaeological site near Rabat featuring Roman and Islamic structures, gardens, and stork nests.​

Explore the underground caves of Hercules in Tangier.

 

Merzouga Desert Activities

Camel Trekking: Explore the stunning Sahara Desert on a camel trek and witness the breathtaking sunrise or sunset.​

Sandboarding: Experience the thrill of sliding down the dunes on a sandboard, a popular adventure activity in Merzouga.​

Quad/buggy/ATV Biking: Navigate the vast desert landscapes on a quad bike(buggy&atv) for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Visit Khamlia Village: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting Khamlia, known for its traditional Gnawa music and friendly inhabitants.​

Stargazing: Merzouga offers incredible opportunities for stargazing due to its remote location. Consider a guided tour for an unforgettable celestial experience.​

Explore Erg Chebbi Dunes: Hike or ride through the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the highest in Morocco, and enjoy the serenity of the desert.​

Berber Nomad Experience: Connect with the nomadic Berber communities, gaining insight into their lifestyle, traditions, and hospitality.​

Visit Rissani: Explore the nearby town of Rissani, known for its lively markets, historical sites, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif.

Relax at Desert Camps: Stay in a traditional desert camp for a unique overnight experience, enjoying local cuisine, music, and the tranquility of the Sahara under the stars.

Fossil Exploration: Visit the fossil-rich areas around Merzouga, such as the Erfoud region, and discover ancient marine fossils embedded in the desert rocks.​

Bird Watching: Merzouga is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Explore the diverse avian life around the Dayet Srji salt lake, which attracts various migratory bird species.​

Photography Expeditions: Capture the stunning landscapes, changing colors of the dunes, and the unique culture of Merzouga through a photography expedition.​

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Gain a bird's-eye view of the desert by taking a hot air balloon ride, providing a unique perspective of the expansive dunes and landscapes.​

Motorcycle Tours: For a different kind of adventure, consider a motorcycle tour through the desert, offering a thrilling way to explore the vast surroundings.​

Yoga Retreats: Experience tranquility in the desert with yoga retreats, combining the serene environment with mindfulness and relaxation.

Visit the Museums: Explore local museums, such as the Museum of Nomad Culture, to learn more about the history, traditions, and artifacts of the region.

Sunset at Lake Yasmina: Head to Lake Yasmina to witness a mesmerizing sunset reflecting off the water, creating a picturesque setting amidst the desert landscape.​

Culinary Experiences: Enjoy traditional Berber cuisine by participating in cooking classes or savoring local dishes at restaurants in Merzouga.

Motorized Paragliding: For a thrilling aerial adventure, try motorized paragliding over the dunes and enjoy panoramic views of the Sahara Desert.

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Attend a traditional Berber wedding celebration.