Morocco is a country full of contrasts. Explore it and leave with memories for a lifetime - the sensory impressions are beyond compare. Long beaches, dry deserts, lush palm oases, the dramatic Atlas Mountains, vibrant cities and markets are just some of the sights waiting for you. In Morocco you can find stunning nature, and both pulsating, colourful cities and charming untouched little villages, where everything is at has always been.
Cities in Morocco
Marrakech is a colourful city with a charming atmosphere and a spinning tempo. A must see in Marrakesh is Djemaa El Fna - the epicentre of the city and the main market. This place is as lively during the night as it is during the day.
On the coast of Morocco, you can visit the picturesque town of Essaouira, a town that charms everyone. This city has a relaxed and laidback atmosphere. If you want a vacation on the beach, then the mile-long beaches of Agadir are a great choice. Just outside of Agadir you will find the small fishing village of Taghazout. The main activity here is surfing. The waves are great and most of the year the water is warm.
Heading further north you will arrive in Casablanca – made famous by the movie of the same name. This is Morocco's largest city and functions as a commercial centre in Morocco. Morocco's capital, Rabat, is located a short train ride from Casablanca. It has a laid-back and a distinct European feel to it. It is both beautiful to look at, as well as interesting, to explore.
Mountains, Sahara and country life
If you want to get out of the cities we recommend that you rent a car and drive into the Atlas Mountains, which offer amazing trekking opportunities. Here you will be met by sharp cliffs, deep valleys, small glittering lakes and lush palm oases.
To the west of the Atlas Mountains the desert takes over, mighty and endless - or at least it feels that way. A camel ride over the hot desert sand is a fantastic experience and it is definitely recommended!
There are endless small charming villages in Morocco, both to the north and south, whichever way you go you are sure to stumble across one. A few real gems are Ait Benhaddou, Skoura and Todra Gorge. Not to mention the impressive kasbahs - a sort of fortress made of clay and straw that were built many hundreds of years ago.
Eating and drinking in Morocco
You can't visit Morocco without trying the Tagine - a traditional dish that is prepared in a clay pot. The Tagine dishes are normally made of meat, usually lamb, chicken or fish, with loads of vegetables. Without exaggerating, this dish is found on every menu in Morocco. Another typical dish is couscous that is mixed with various vegetables and meat. Dried fruits such as dates, apricots and plums can also be found all over Morocco.
Since 99% of all Moroccans are Muslims it isn’t customary to drink alcohol and most restaurants do not serve alcohol. The more touristy places in the larger towns are an exception to the rule.
Travel Advice for Morocco
Haggle! Start low and as a rule you should start haggling under half the price. There are markets everywhere in Morocco and they sell everything from clothes and handicrafts to spices and dried fruits. A must for testing your haggling skills!
You should check out if there are any festivals going on during your visit to Morocco. Every year there are a number of festivals throughout Morocco. Not just in the larger cities but also in the smaller towns and villages.
And pack a sweater. Even if the days are hot, the desert nights get very cold.