1.Introduction
Morocco is a diverse and multifaceted country with awe-inspiring natural beauty, compelling historical significance, and a vibrant and diverse cultural tradition. Whether you're examining the ancient Roman ruins or meeting the indigenous Berbers, you're bound to have an experience like no other. The amazing architecture and the various cultural influences of the different civilizations throughout history are reflected in the design of the many mosques, palaces, and gardens across the country. The desert towns along the edge of the Sahara Desert, like Merzouga and Zagora, are stunning and visually enthralling.
Where else in the world can you hike through magnificent flowing gorges, go on a desert safari, spend a night in the heart of the Sahara under a stunning canopy of stars, or visit the magical winding medieval streets complete with snake charmers, acrobats, and storytellers? While Morocco is both modern and traditional, it is essential to keep in mind that the country is predominantly Muslim, so dressing respectfully, particularly when visiting mosques or religious sites, is advisable.
2. Preparing for Your Trip
f you are planning your first trip to Morocco, there is no need to worry. The land of kasbahs, souks, and desert camps has been accommodating tourists for decades; it's not a new thing. When it comes to what sorts of items to bring along, it's best to do research first since Morocco can be popular in the most diverse cities. Additionally, you'd do well to put packing lists together with items like sunscreen, travel adapters, and passports months in advance. It can be easy to overlook the importance of these items, but they will be incredibly important on your trip.
How to Get There: Morocco has a number of smaller airports, but the two that count as international are in Casablanca and Marrakech. Seeing as many flights into Morocco arrive quite late, it can be a better plan to spend a night in the first city you land in for a day. Then, take a bus or train the following day to your final destination. Planes are dirt cheap and usually only run about 20€ one way to a new city. With regard to how many weeks you should spend in Morocco, the consensus is that a month is long enough to get a true feel for Morocco but many people only have two weeks. Of course, there are many quick Morocco tours for those who are pressed for time.
3. Navigating Moroccan Culture
Morocco’s reputation for hustlers can make shopping into a bit of a burden, as not only must you be assertive in stating that you are browsing, you must also know the right moment to say no and walk away. Local markets belong to the merchants, not the customers. Do not touch merchandise if you are not interested and be prepared to bargain. Money speaks louder than words and persistent merchants will not stop pressing you to buy. Take advantage of their hospitality by answering their questions and enjoying a cup of traditional mint tea. It is wise to visit a teashop or two to fathom the undercurrents of Moroccan culture. Traditionally, teashops were where men 'hid' to escape the oversight of their families. Now, while tourists may be welcome, the cast of daily characters - men literally clad in woolen "burnooses", fez hats, and the thickest of discussions - will leave you in no doubt that it's still a man's world.
4. Must-See Destinations in Morocco
2. Fes
Fes is the oldest of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco and is well worth a visit. The old town (Medina) is Morocco's largest car-free urban zone and is now a UNESCO world heritage site. The main entrance to the Medina, Bab Boujloud, is a grand and impressive gateway. You won't believe the relatively small building holds! You will find many small hotels hidden away inside. There are lots of young students around Morocco, and many will follow you to try and speak English to you. Fes is a great place for a guide who knows the city to show you around. The Medina is a maze of over 9,000 vehicle-free streets, crammed full of craftspeople, markets, donkeys, people, and street food vendors. Other highlights include the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque (the university inside is the oldest operating educational institution in the world), the central Souk, the tanneries, Medersa Bou Inania, and the Royal Palace. Clothing in Fes is a bit different than in the south of Morocco, so make sure you know what to wear!
1. Casablanca & Marrakesh
You will likely fly into Casablanca, the gateway to Morocco. However, there's not much to see in the city, and I would recommend heading straight to Marrakesh for a more interesting experience. Marrakesh is an overwhelming and bustling city, full of excitement and energy. Marrakesh is most famous for the UNESCO heritage site Jamaa El Fna, where you will find snake charmers, fire-eaters, acrobats, and tranquility-inspiring storytellers. This area is the highlight of the city and is near the narrow alleyways of the Medina old city, the main square, and the Koutoubia Mosque. If you get fed up with the pushy traders and henna artists, the Jardin Marjorelle is not too far away. It was bought by Yves Saint Laurent in 1980 and now houses an Islamic Art Museum, surrounded by amazing themed gardens.
5. Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
Having visited Morocco several times, I have always found it an extremely interesting, diverse and rewarding destination to visit, particularly for travelers interested in other cultures. However, there are a few key points that I would emphasize to first-time visitors…
Trains... The Moroccan rail system is both reliable, efficient and a great way of seeing the country. Trains are spacious and comfortable, stations quite basic, but, and this is the key point - both highway and rail systems in Morocco are near universal and follow the same routes. Due to the frequency of service, I would suggest taking the train instead of a bus for most routes.
Renting cars... If you do decide to go with a rental car, driving in Morocco is straightforward. Super Highways keep speeding to a minimum, and fuel is cheap. However, there are also tolls, and for the most part, you need to carry a wad of Dirhams. Automated pay points along the super highway will not always succeed in recognizing an "Overseas" credit card, and even when they do, the system may still choose to reject it. Take along some cash!
Bus and "Grand Taxis"... Perhaps due to the uniform quality of trains, I have not used long-distance buses or "Grand Taxis." However, when in Marrakech.... Do I need to mention something that is both local and tourist-oriented? Of course not!
Driving Tips... Provides some pieces of practical advice for first-time drivers in Morocco, particularly on how to navigate the notorious roundabouts!
The Weather... In the winter, the weather in Morocco will vary from very warm to hot. During the Almond Blossom period, it gets very cold at night, almost sub-degree C temperature, and the storm systems can be wild. However, even here, traveling is much cheaper, and the lack of tourists has its advantages. In the summer, it can get very hot or stormy.