Morocco Flag
Why visit Morocco?
Ideal for the adventurous and experienced traveler seeking to enjoy ancient cities, antiques, architecture, beaches, birdwatching, culture, deserts, diverse scenery, golf, hiking, history, horseback riding treks, imperial cities, landmarks, markets, mountain villages, natural wonders, religious shrines, sand dunes, shopping, and skiing.
Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco. Photo Credit: sosinda/Pixabay
At a Glance
- Souvenirs to Buy: Brass goods, ceramic tile mosaics, copper goods, gems, leather goods, pottery, silk, spices, wood carvings, and wool carpets.
- Local Cuisine to Try: Djaja Mahamara (chicken dish). Harira (garbanzo soup). Hout (fish stew). Mchoui (roast mutton).
- Local Drink to Try: Casablanca (lager beer). Khunjul (spiced tea). Nous Nous (coffee). Spéciale Flag (beer). Sweet Mint Tea.
Photo Credit: Daniel Wanke
Fun Facts
- Founded in 859 al-Qarawiyin University (Fez) is considered the oldest university of the world.
- Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest in the world (Casablanca).
- First Arab and African country to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
- Claims the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta, Melilla and Peñón de Vélez de la Gomera.
- Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a traditional pre-Saharan habitat (south).
- Tourism is their second largest foreign exchange income.
- Native Barbary Lion was hunted into extinction.
- Casablanca is their largest city.
- One of three only nations to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
- Seaport of Essaouira has a mixture of European and North African architecture.
- Home to Tanger-Med Africa's largest port.
- Approximately 80% of Europe's cannabis consumed is exported from Rif region.
- Birthplace to Africa's first high-speed railway system (links Casablanca and Tangiers). Eventually extending to Marrakech.
- Al-Akhawayn University (Ifrane) is the first English language university.
- Meknes grows mint and olives.
- Fes grows lemons and oranges.
- Majorelle Botanical Garden (Marrakech) was bought (1980) by Yves Saint-Laurent (1936-2008), Fashion Designer and Pierre Bergé (1930-2017), French Industrialist.
Leather Tanneries of Fez, Morocco. Photo Credit: Monlaw/Pixabay
Special Holidays/Occasions
- Annual Events: (February) Almond Blossom Festival, (March) International Nomads Festival, Sand Marathon, (April) Marathon des Sables, Rabat Wax Candle Moussem Festival, (May) El Kelaâ M'Gouna, Fantasia Festival, Gnawa Festival, Kalaat Mgouna Rose Festival, Rose Festival, (June) Fez Festival of World Sacred Music, Gnaoua & World Music Festival, Goulimine Camel Festival, Sefrou Cherry Festival, Sufi Festival, TANJAzz, World Sacred Music Festival, (July) Dakar Rally, Festival of the Sea Harvest, Festival of World Sacred Music, International Cultural Festival, Marrakech Popular Arts Festival, Tafraoute Summer Music Festival, Timitar Festival, (August) International Asilah Arts Festival, Moussem Immouzer des Ida Outanane, Moussem Immouzer du Kandar, (September) Imilchil Marriage Festival, Marrakesh International Film Festival, (October) Date Festival, (December) Festival International du Film de Marrakech, (December) International Film Festival, and Tan Tan Moussem.
- Holidays: New Year's Day, Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto, May Day, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Feast of the Throne, Hijra New Year, Anniversary of the Recovery Oued Ed-Dahab, Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People, Youth Day, The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, Anniversary of the Green March and Independence Day.
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco. Photo Credit: Pixabay
Good to Know
- Considered a developing country.
- The pace of life is much slower.
- One of Africa's most popular travel destinations.
- Crime iis a serious concern and issue.
- Homosexual acts and pre-marital relations are illegal; punishable from 6 months - 3 years in prison.
- Airport expansion in Casablanca and Marrakech.
- Travelers should dress conservatively, covering legs, shoulders, and upper arms.
- Medja Zerga National Park attracts migratory birds.
- Illegal to advocate or promote any religion beyond Islam; punishable up to 15 years in prison.
- Agadir area is best for boating and windsurfing.
- Ski Season is December - April.
- Do not photograph diplomatic missions, government buildings, or palaces.
- City buses are not considered safe.
- Lamb is relatively the most expensive meat.
- Carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.
- During Holy Month (Ramadan) do not drink, eat or smoke in public.
- Alcohol is available in hotels and restaurants catering travelers.
- Medical care and treatment is not of our standards.
- Fresh bread is a staple in every city, town and village.
- Lodging is not usually accessible-friendly.
- Medication(s) mailed will be intercepted by Customs.
- Waterproof clothing recommended from December - March.
- Only use your right hand to shake hands or touch someone.
- Has a high volume of traffic accidents.
- Marrakech offers trendy dining and restaurants.
- Avoid public demonstrations.
- Women should not walk alone in public.
- Known to be a transit point for cocaine from South America for Western Europe.
- Rainy Season (November - March) roads tend to flood due flash flooding.
- Export of local currency is not permitted.
- Sanitary conditions are below our standards.
- Do not consume tap water.
- Atlas and Rif Mountains are best trekked/walked late March - mid November.
- Access to the Algerian border is closed.
Tangier, Morocco. Photo Credit: kabaretka/Pixabay
This international destination requires:
- A valid passport with six months of validity and one blank page for entry stamp.
- Tourist VISA not required for visits under 90 days.
Atlas Mountains, Morocco. Photo Credit: csanjuanfer/Pixabay
- Best Time to Visit: October - December & March - May
- Coolest Months: Movember - March
- Hottest Months: July & August
- Peak Season: November - March
Photo Credit: Greg Montani
Your Must-See & Do
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Archaeological Site of Volubilis, Historic City of Meknes, Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Medina of Essaouira, Medina of Fez, Medina of Marrakesh, Medina of Tétouan, Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida), Rabat Modern Capital and Historic City.
Photo Credit: Abdessalam Abraim/Pixabay
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All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.
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