Morocco

Morocco: general info for travelers

Morocco is a country located in North Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich history and cultural heritage, with influences from Arab, Amazigh (Berber), and European cultures. The majority of the population is Muslim and the official languages are Arabic and Berber, though French and Spanish are also commonly spoken.
Morocco is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains, and scenic beaches. It is also famous for its traditional architecture, including beautiful mosques, palaces, and intricately designed medinas (old city centers). Moroccan cuisine is another highlight, with dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla being popular.
Tourism is a major industry in Morocco, with visitors attracted to the country's natural beauty, ancient cities, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fez, hike through the Atlas Mountains, ride camels in the Sahara, and shop for crafts and spices in local markets.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Morocco, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Morocco: places to visit

Here are some of the main places to visit in Morocco along with a brief description of each: 1. Marrakech - A vibrant and bustling city full of markets, gardens, and palaces, including the famous Jardin Majorelle and the Saadian Tombs.
2. Casablanca - Home to the Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world and features stunning architectural details.
3. Fes - An ancient city with a rich history and cultural heritage, featuring stunning traditional architecture, a medieval medina, and the famous Chouara Tannery.
4. Chefchaouen - A picturesque town known for its blue-painted buildings, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning mountainous terrain.
5. Sahara Desert - A vast and beautiful desert landscape with sand dunes, oases, and unique Berber communities. Many visitors enjoy camel treks or overnight stays in luxury desert camps.
6. Essaouira - A coastal town with a charming old medina, a bustling fishing port, and beautiful beaches perfect for surfing and windsurfing.
7. Ouarzazate - A city located in the middle of the desert, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara" and home to many famous film sets, including those used in Game of Thrones and Gladiator.
8. Chefchaouen - A beautiful blue-washed town located in the Rif Mountains, perfect for a relaxing retreat and exploring their narrow streets and beautiful valleys.
These are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Morocco, and each offers a unique, unforgettable experience.
There is more to see and do in Morocco: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Morocco: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Morocco, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Morocco has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Morocco is in the spring, between March to May, and in the fall, between September to November. During these months, the temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the days are generally sunny and pleasant. The summer months, between June to August, can be very hot, especially in the desert regions and coastal areas. The winter months, between December to February, can be chilly in the evenings, but still offer comfortable days for sightseeing. Overall, it really depends on what activities you want to do during your trip to Morocco, but spring and fall are generally considered to be the best times to visit.

Morocco: activities and what to do

Morocco offers a wide range of activities and sports that can be enjoyed on holiday. Here are some popular ones: 1. Surfing: Morocco has some of the best surfing spots in the world, especially along the Atlantic coast.
2. Camel trekking: Explore the Sahara desert on the back of a camel and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
3. Hiking and trekking: Morocco has a diverse landscape, from the high Atlas Mountains to the lush green valleys, which makes it a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts.
4. Horse riding: Take a horseback ride through the Moroccan countryside and witness the traditional way of life.
5. Quad biking: Explore the dunes and valleys on an adrenaline-pumping quad bike excursion.
6. Yoga and meditation retreats: Enjoy a serene and holistic holiday by joining one of the many yoga and meditation retreats that are organized across the country.
7. Golf: Morocco has some exceptional golf courses, especially around Marrakech and Agadir.
8. Water sports: From kayaking and sailing to windsurfing and kiteboarding, Morocco has a lot to offer for water sports enthusiasts.
9. Cooking classes: Experience the vibrant food culture of Morocco by taking a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Moroccan dishes.
10. Cultural experiences: Explore the colorful markets, historic landmarks, and traditional riads to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Morocco.

Morocco: few words on history and culture

Morocco has a rich and diverse history and culture that reflects the influences of its indigenous Berber people, Islamic traditions, and European colonialism. The country played an important role in the ancient trans-Saharan trade routes, and its cities were centers of learning and commerce. Moroccan culture is known for its hospitality, vibrant music and dance, colorful traditional clothing, and flavorful cuisine that combines Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences. Islam is the predominant religion, and its influence can be seen in the architecture of the country's mosques and madrasas. Many Moroccan cities are also known for their historic medinas, which are ancient walled cities filled with narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic architecture.

Morocco: how to move around on holiday

Morocco can be reached by various means of transportation, depending on your starting point. The most common ways of getting to Morocco are: 1. Airplane: Mohammad V International Airport in Casablanca is the main international airport in Morocco. There are also airports in Marrakech, Tangier, Rabat, Agadir, and Fes. Many airlines, both budget and full-service, offer flights to Morocco.
2. Ferry: If you are coming from Europe, you can take a ferry from Spain to Morocco. Ferries operate from several ports in southern Spain to the ports of Tangier and Ceuta in Morocco.
3. Bus: If you are already in a neighboring country, such as Algeria, Tunisia, or Mauritania, you can take a bus to Morocco. Many bus companies operate routes to and from Morocco.
4. Train: There are train services operated by ONCF, the national railway company of Morocco, providing connections to many major cities including Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, and Casablanca.
Once you are in Morocco, you can travel around by: 1. Train: Trains are fast and efficient and connect most major cities in Morocco.
2. Bus: Buses are an inexpensive and convenient way to travel around Morocco. There are many local and long-distance bus companies throughout the country.
3. Shared taxi: Shared taxis (known as grands taxis) operate on designated routes and are an affordable way to travel in some areas of the country.
4. Car rental: Car rental companies are available in most major cities in Morocco, but driving can be challenging due to the often chaotic traffic.
5. Private driver: Hiring a private driver is a good option if you want to have more flexibility and comfort during your travels. To hire a car to visit Morocco, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Morocco: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Morocco with a full stomach:D
Moroccan cuisine is a blend of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. Here are some typical Moroccan foods and a brief description: 1. Tajine: This is a Moroccan stew that is slow-cooked in a special clay pot. It consists of meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb), vegetables, and spices like cumin, cinnamon, and ginger.
2. Couscous: This is the national dish of Morocco, and it typically consists of steamed semolina grains served with meat (usually lamb or beef) or vegetables.
3. Pastilla: This is a sweet and savory pastry that is filled with shredded chicken, almonds, and spices like cinnamon and saffron.
4. Harira: This is a traditional Moroccan soup that is made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices like paprika and turmeric. It is usually served during Ramadan.
5. Kefta: This is a type of meatball or meat patty that is typically made with ground beef or lamb and is flavored with spices like cumin and coriander.
6. Mint tea: This is a popular drink in Morocco that is made with green tea leaves and fresh mint. It is sweetened with sugar and served hot in small glasses.

Morocco: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Morocco is a relatively affordable country for tourists. The cost of living is lower than in some countries in Europe and North America. However, the cost of your trip will vary depending on the standard of accommodation you choose, the mode of transportation you take, the activities you participate in, and the food you eat. Backpackers can expect to spend around $20-$40 per day on a tight budget, while mid-range travelers can budget for around $50-$80 per day. Luxurious travelers can expect to pay around $150 or more per day for high-end accommodations and activities. Keep in mind that prices can be higher during peak season, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Morocco: where to find accodation

There are many options for accommodation in Morocco. Here are some popular choices: 1. Riads - traditional Moroccan homes converted into guesthouses with beautiful interior courtyards, perfect for experiencing Moroccan culture.
2. Hotels - there are many international hotel chains in Morocco, especially in popular tourist areas like Marrakech and Casablanca.
3. Guesthouses and hostels - These are great options for solo travelers or those looking for affordable accommodation.
4. Campsites - Morocco has many beautiful beaches and scenic spots where you can camp.
5. Airbnb - Many locals rent out their homes or apartments on Airbnb, which can provide a more authentic experience.
It is always best to research and compare prices and amenities before making a booking.
You can check hotel prices in Morocco here:
Booking.com

Morocco: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism, Morocco received approximately 12 million tourists in 2018. The peak tourist season in Morocco typically runs from June to August, as well as during major holidays and festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. During these periods, there can be large crowds and high demand for accommodations, so it's recommended to book in advance. The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November are also popular for visitors as the weather is more comfortable and there are generally fewer crowds.
Morocco is generally a safe country for tourists. The government takes the safety of tourists seriously, and most visits are trouble-free. However, like any other destination, there are areas that require caution. Travelers are advised to avoid certain neighborhoods of cities such as Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakech at night, especially when alone. Pickpocketing and petty crime are relatively common, and it is advisable to be cautious when carrying valuables. It is also recommended that travelers take precautions while exploring the desert or mountainous regions and should consider joining a guided tour for increased safety. Overall Morocco is a relatively safe country for tourists, but it is always good to exercise a certain degree of caution.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Morocco on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Morocco: events for tourists

Morocco is known for its rich culture and diverse history, which makes it a great destination for tourists. Here are some of the most interesting events and festivals that you might want to consider when planning your trip to Morocco: 1. Ramadan: This is a significant event in the Muslim world and is observed throughout Morocco. It is a time for fasting and introspection, and many businesses and restaurants are closed during the day. However, the evenings come alive with food, music, and family gatherings.
2. Fes Festival of World Sacred Music: This annual festival takes place in June and features concerts and performances by artists from around the world. It is a celebration of spiritual music and religious tolerance.
3. Marrakech International Film Festival: This festival takes place in December and attracts international filmmakers and actors. It is a great opportunity to see some of the best in contemporary cinema while exploring Marrakech.
4. Fantasia: This is a traditional equestrian show that showcases the skills of Moroccan horse riders. It is a thrilling spectacle that takes place throughout the country, particularly during cultural events and festivals.
5. Moussem Moulay Idriss Zarhoun: This annual pilgrimage to Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, near Fez, to honor the founder of Morocco's first dynasty attracts thousands of people each year. It is a great opportunity to witness Moroccan spirituality and culture.
These are just a few examples of the many interesting events you can experience in Morocco.

Morocco: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Morocco, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Morocco: Day 1-2: Arrive in Casablanca, visit the Hassan II Mosque and take a stroll along La Corniche.
Day 3: Travel to Rabat, visit the Chellah ruins, medina and Kasbah des Oudaias.
Day 4: Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Chefchaouen, located in the Rif Mountains.
Day 5-7: Head to Fes, explore the old medina, madrasas, souks, and tanneries.
Day 8-9: Take a trip to the Sahara Desert, ride camels along the dunes, stay in a berber tent, and watch the sunrise.
Day 10-11: Drive to Ouarzazate, visit the Kasbahs Ait BenHaddou and Taourirt, along with the Atlas Film Studios Day 12-14: Travel to Marrakech, visit the famous Jemaa el-Fna square, explore the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs and the Koutoubia Mosque.
Day 15: Return to Casablanca for departure.
Don't forget to enjoy the delicious Moroccan cuisine, colorful markets, and friendly locals during your trip!

Morocco: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Morocco described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Agadir is a city located in the southern part of Morocco, on the Atlantic coast. It is the largest city in the region and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco. Agadir has a hot dese... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agadir
- Agdz is a small town located in the Draa River valley in southeastern Morocco. It is about 70 kilometers southeast of Ouarzazate and around 550 kilometers south of Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agdz
- Ait Benhaddou is a fortified village located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The village was built in the 17th century and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ait Benhaddou
- Al Hoceima is a coastal city in the northern part of Morocco, located on the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and stunning landscapes. The city is surrounded by ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Hoceima
- Asilah is a small coastal city in the northwestern part of Morocco. It is a popular tourist destination famous for its beautiful beaches, historic medina and vibrant art scene. The city has a rich his... CONTINUE here for a trip to Asilah
- Beni Mellal is a city located in central Morocco, at the foot of the Middle Atlas Mountains. It is the capital of the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region and is situated about 200 kilometers (124 miles) east ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beni Mellal
- Bouarfa is a small town located in eastern Morocco, near the Algerian border. It is the capital of the Bouarfa Province and is known for its unique desert landscapes and natural reserves. The town has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bouarfa
- Boumalne Dades is a small town located in the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It is situated at an altitude of about 1,600 meters above sea level. The town is known for its breathtaking natural beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boumalne Dades
- Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and is located on the Atlantic coast. It is known as an economic and cultural center, with a blend of modern and traditional architecture. The city has many l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Casablanca
- Chefchaouen is a city located in the Rif Mountains of Morocco. It is known for its blue-painted buildings and is often referred to as the "blue city". The town has a rich history and culture influence... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chefchaouen
- Dakhla is a city located in the Western Sahara region of Morocco. It is situated on a narrow peninsula and surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Rio de Oro Bay on the other. The city is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dakhla
- Demnate is a small city located in the central part of Morocco, about 120 kilometers east of Marrakech. It is situated in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and has a population of around 50,000 peo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Demnate
- El Jadida is a port city located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, about 100 km southwest of Casablanca. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic Portuguese fortress, and charming medina. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Jadida
- El Kelâa des Sraghna is a town located in the central part of Morocco, about 110 kilometers south of the city of Marrakech. It is the capital of the El Kelâa des Sraghna Province and has a population ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Kelâa des Sraghna
- Erfoud is a small city located in the southeast of Morocco. It is known as the gateway to the Sahara Desert, as it is situated on the edge of the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Erfoud is a popular destination f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Erfoud
- Errachidia is a city in eastern Morocco, located in the Middle Atlas Mountains. It is the capital of the Errachidia Province and the Draa-Tafilalet region. The city is situated on the Ziz River and it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Errachidia
- Essaouira is a beautiful coastal city located in the western region of Morocco. It is known for its stunning beaches, historic fortifications, and vibrant culture. The city was established in the 18th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Essaouira
- Fez is a city located in northern Morocco, often referred to as the cultural capital of the country. It has a rich history and is well-known for its UNESCO-listed old walled city, called Fes el Bali, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fez
- Figuig is a small town in eastern Morocco, located near the Algerian border. It is known for its traditional architecture, date palms, and unique cultural heritage. The town is divided into several di... CONTINUE here for a trip to Figuig
- Ifrane is a small city located in the Mid-Atlas region of Morocco. It is known for its unique architecture that blends traditional Moroccan design with European chalet-style buildings. Ifrane is a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ifrane
- Imouzzer is a small town located in the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco, about 60 miles south of Fez. The town is known for its natural beauty, with lush green valleys, waterfalls, and pine forests.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Imouzzer
- Laayoune is the largest city of the disputed territory of Western Sahara and serves as the administrative capital of the region. It is located on the Atlantic Coast, in the southern part of Morocco, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Laayoune
- Larache is a coastal city located in the northern part of Morocco, on the Atlantic Ocean. It is about 90 kilometers south of Tangier and 120 kilometers north of Rabat. It was originally founded as a P... CONTINUE here for a trip to Larache
- Marrakesh, also known as Marrakech, is a vibrant city located in western Morocco. It is the fourth largest city in the country and is famous for its vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and rich cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marrakesh
- Meknès is a city located in northern Morocco, and it is the sixth-largest city in the country. It was once the capital of Morocco and is known for its historic importance and cultural attractions. Mek... CONTINUE here for a trip to Meknès
- Merzouga is a small town located in southeastern Morocco, near the border of Algeria. It's famous for its towering sand dunes, which are some of the tallest in the Sahara Desert. Visitors can take cam... CONTINUE here for a trip to Merzouga
- Midelt is a town located in the central region of Morocco, in the Atlas Mountains range. It is situated 1,508 meters above sea level and is known for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural he... CONTINUE here for a trip to Midelt
- Nador is a coastal city located in the northeastern part of Morocco, just off the Mediterranean coast. It is known for its bustling port, beautiful beaches, and traditional Berber culture. With a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nador
- Oualidia is a small coastal town in Morocco, located on the Atlantic coast between the cities of El Jadida and Safi. It is known for its beautiful lagoon, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oualidia
- Ouarzazate is a city in the Southern Morocco region. It is an important tourist destination and film production center. Also known as the "door of the desert," Ouarzazate sits at the crossroads of the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ouarzazate
- Oulmes is a small town located in the province of Khouribga, in the central region of Morocco. It has a population of around 18,000 people and is known for its mineral water, which is bottled and sold... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oulmes
- Rabat is the capital city of Morocco and is located on the Atlantic coast. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower, and its vibrant ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rabat
- Sefrou is a city located in the foothills of the Middle Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It is known as the "cherry capital" of Morocco due to its abundant cherry orchards and the annual Cherry Festival. S... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sefrou
- Sidi Ifni is a small coastal town located in southwestern Morocco. It is situated about 160 km south of Agadir and 80 km north of the Moroccan-controlled Western Sahara. Sidi Ifni was a Spanish colony... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sidi Ifni
- Sidi Kaouki is a small coastal village located in the southwestern part of Morocco, about 25 kilometers south of Essaouira. It is known for its beautiful beach, perfect for surfing, kitesurfing, and o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sidi Kaouki
- Skoura is a town located in the southern foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It is known for its picturesque palm groves, also called the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs". The town dates back t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skoura
- Tafraout is a beautiful small town located in the southwest of Morocco in the Anti-Atlas Mountains. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including red granite rock formations and lush almo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tafraout
- Tamraght is a small village located on the Atlantic coastline of Morocco, about 15 kilometers north of Agadir. It is known for its excellent surf spots and beautiful beaches, making it a popular desti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamraght
- Tan Tan is a small city located in southwestern Morocco, near the Moroccan-Mauritanian border. It has a population of around 70,000 people and is known for its strategic location as a gateway to the S... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tan Tan
- Tangier is a city located in the northwest of Morocco, on the coast of the Strait of Gibraltar. It has a rich history as it was once a strategic gateway between Europe and Africa, and has been ruled b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tangeri
- Tarfaya is a small coastal town located in the southwestern part of Morocco, on the Atlantic coast. It is known for its mild weather, beautiful scenery, and rich historical background. The town was on... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarfaya
- Taroudant is a city located in the southern part of Morocco, known for its historic city walls and well-preserved medina (old town). It is often referred to as the "Grandmother of Marrakesh" due to it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taroudant
- Tiznit is a city located in the southern part of Morocco, about 100 kilometers south of Agadir. The city is known for its silver jewelry, which is made by local artisans. It is surrounded by the Anti-... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tiznit
- Tétouan is a city located in the northern part of Morocco, near the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its Andalusian architecture and cultural heritage, as it was once a Spanish protectorate. Tétouan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tétouan
- Volubilis is a partially excavated Roman city in Morocco. It was founded in the 3rd century BC, and later became a Roman settlement. The city is located near the city of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, and was... CONTINUE here for a trip to Volubilis
- Zagora is a small town located in southeastern Morocco, about 420 kilometers south of the city of Marrakesh. It is situated on the edge of the Sahara Desert and is known for its beautiful scenery, inc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zagora


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