DISCOVER SPICY MOROCCAN CUISINE
The maze-like souks of Fez, the vast orange dunes of Erg Chebbi, Berber nomads in the Sahara.... Sample the spicy cuisine of Morocco in Marrakesh. Bargain for a hand-knotted wool rug over sweet mint tea in a noisy medina. Walk among the ancient villages and winding paths of the High Atlas Mountains. Unwind in the windy port city of Essaouira. Watch the stars from a tented camp in the deep, echoing silence of the desert. The fortified kasbah of Ait Benhaddou. Roman ruins in Volubilis. The bluewashed village of Chefchaouen. What fascinates you? Travel at your own pace, in your own style, confident that we'll show you the best options wherever you go.
Marrakesh, along with Fez, Rabat and Meknes, belongs to the King's Cities. A visit to this trendy city is not to be missed. Although the inner city and the Medina are mostly still authentic, you can also enjoy trendy entertainment venues such as clubs, leading restaurants, stores and accommodation in Marrakesh.
Be sure to visit the always bustling Djemaa El Fna. This square is home to all sorts of artists who provide entertainment and fun in the evening. Of course, you can also enjoy local delicacies here in one of the many eateries and stalls. A visit to the square can be combined with a visit to the Koutoubia. This is the largest mosque in the city and its impressive minaret makes it a real icon.
Would you like to visit a mosque? Then go to the mosque of Ben Youssef. This sight is especially recommended if you are a lover of traditional architecture.
Other beautiful sights in Marrakech include the Jardin Majorelle botanical garden. The design of the accompanying blue building was created by a Frenchman after whom both the botanical garden and the cobalt blue color are named.
Other beautiful sights in this fairy-tale city include the royal and cultural-historical palace named Palais de la Bahia.
The Dar si-Saïd museum is also well worth a visit. You will learn more about the rich history of the city through impressive exhibits.
When you visit Casablanca, one thing you should definitely not forget is your photo camera. Almost everything about this place is beautiful. Casablanca means white house and that is exactly what you see in the streets. In combination with the azure blue sea next to it, you will soon have a beautiful picture.
Be sure to also get the enormous Hassan II mosque at the water's edge in front of your lens. The minaret is over 200 meters high and towers far above the city. Of course, you can also admire this mosque inside. Well worth the effort, as you are immersed in nothing but mystique and atmosphere. Parts of the floor you walk on are made of glass, giving you a spectacular view of the water moving beneath you.
Casablanca's old historic center is also full of breathtakingly beautiful and detailed architecture. You can discover various architectural styles such as Art-Deco, for example. Rest from all these impressions in the park just outside the center. The La Ligue Arabe is an oasis of calm and very suitable for a picnic.
Rabat is the capital of the country. The city is trendy and modern with a center to match. Yet traditional and historical buildings are well preserved. While walking through Rabat, you can enjoy not only the beautiful architecture, but also botanical gardens and green oases.
If you are a lover of unusual plant species, be sure to visit Jardin d'essai.
You will also find plenty of pleasant boulevards in Rabat.
Partly because of its many special and cultural-historical attractions, UNESCO decided to place the city of Rabat in Morocco on the World Heritage List.
One of the highlights of Rabat is the Dar el-Makhzen. This concerns the old palace of the king that you can still visit from the outside. Nowadays, the government does its work here.
Just outside the city center, you can visit a real fortress with typical blue houses. This is called the Kasba of the Oudayas. The place is surrounded by towers from the 12th century.
Next to the higher Kasbah you can visit the mosque. Look around carefully because from this place you have a breathtaking view of the capital of Morocco.
Good food can be found in the Medina. In Rabat, this is modern and spacious. You can visit various boutiques, stalls and restaurants here.
UNESCO's World Heritage List also includes one of the 4 King Cities of Morocco, FÈS . You imagine yourself in the days of yore. Especially when you see the donkeys passing by that supply the many stores in the city. Cars are prohibited in Fez. This is not really surprising, because the center consists of almost 9500 narrow streets where a car is not useful at all. The streets breathe nothing but authenticity and Arabic atmosphere. Besides atmospheric streets, you can also discover many special places in Fez.
Everywhere you will encounter minarets, bright fountains with mosaics and cozy squares. Stores are occupied by artisans such as tanners and blacksmiths. They offer their wares for sale within the huge medina that is well worth a visit. Everywhere you can smell the delicious scents of food and spices that give Fez its mystical atmosphere.
The city is surrounded by an ancient wall that is listed as a World Heritage Site and also features a gate. It is called the Bab Boujeloud. This is also the gate that gives access to the medina of Fez.
Would you also like to visit a mosque in the old city? Then the Madrasa Bou Inania is a suitable mosque. In fact, you do not have to be Muslim to enter and admire the structure.
The Medina of Meknes and the remains of the royal palace have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
In El Hedime Square, Bab Mansour is the gateway to the medina. It is one of the masterpieces of Hispano-Moorish art. Don't miss to visit the royal stables and granaries of Sultan Moulay Ismail.
North of Meknes is the largest Roman archaeological site in Morocco: Volubilis. Triumphal arch, capital, house of Bacchus, all testify to the splendor of the city and its economic and political weight.
As an imperial and eternal city, Meknes offers you the experience of staying outside time, at the borders of the present and history.
In the west of the country, bounded by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir is one of the pearls of Morocco. Whatever the season, the sun shines and the city enjoys a pleasant climate that still soothes the trade winds. Above all, the 10-kilometer-long seafront offers tourists stunning views of the blue ocean and the opportunity to lounge in the best conditions.
The country's main seaside resort, the city with 300 days of sunshine a year, is full of activities. At the water's edge, cafes and restaurants open their doors to you, introducing you to local gastronomy and subjecting their specialties to the enlightened judgment of your taste buds!
Further into town, the El Had souk spreads through the streets, sets up its stalls: more than 6,000 stores offer themselves to your curiosity and you will enjoy strolling in this atmosphere animated by the merchants' negotiations. Never sleepy, the city welcomes every summer the Timitar festival dedicated to world music and more specifically to Amazigh music.
Open to the ocean and the world, Agadir is an active city where it is good to be.
In the far north of Morocco, the city of Tangier invites travelers. On the shores where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, you will discover an authentic city full of different influences.
Stroll through Tangier la Blanche. Stroll the lime-lined streets and, like Matisse before you, like Delacroix, let yourself be carried away by the dreamy air that radiates from the city. Lose yourself in the alleys of the great "Socco"; at the foot of the high walls of the "Kasbah," admire the fortress that dominates the medina. Not far away, it is the "Sultan's Palace" dedicated today to the art of Morocco. Tangier also has Spanish influences with an arena standing in the "Plaza de Torros," not to mention the "Cervantes" theater built in 1913.
If you want to experience Morocco's nature to its fullest, the best place to do so is in the Atlas Mountains. This mountainous region is centrally located in the country and runs from north to south. The Atlas Mountains cover several areas called the Middle, High and Anti-Atlas, but the Rif Mountains are also part of this rugged piece of nature.
The areas are excellent for walking or hiking. Along the way you will be introduced to green oases, as well as passes, gorges and impressive rock formations.
Did you know that the Atlas Mountains in Morocco are also inhabited? The small traditional villages are very photogenic. You will meet the local Berbers who mainly herd sheep and goats.
Be sure to visit one of the many Kasbahs. They are well preserved and are still inhabited. These villages are equipped with a wall, which used to protect the people from intruders and attacks from outside.
Although you may not immediately expect it, the Atlas Mountains are also suitable for winter sports. Especially in the area around Oukaimeden you can ski perfectly. Ifrane is also a ski resort in the winter period. Here you mainly enjoy the snow and the beautiful nature around you.
The Sahara should not be missed during your stay in Morocco. The Sahara is a spectacular and vast desert. Of course, the Sahara has much more to offer than just sand. If you want to spend several days in the desert, you can also sleep under the stars, or in a traditional Bedouin tent. You can also visit traditional nomadic villages that you reach on the back of a camel. All this, of course, under the guidance of an experienced guide who will tell you interesting facts about the area.
At over 900,000,000 km2, the Sahara is the largest desert in the world. Moreover, whoever thinks that little flora and fauna live here is wrong. You can spot various wild animals such as hyenas and cheetahs.
Highly recommended is the area near Merzouga. You will find this village in the southeastern direction.
Here you can also visit the immense sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. An attraction in Morocco that should not be missed.
Because this area and the village of Merzouga are quite a distance from Marrakech, after a drive of about 9-10 hours you might want to stay an extra day. You can, because near Erg Chebbi you will find plenty of accommodation options such as hotels or traditional camps in the desert where you sleep in a tent.
The Dadès du Gorges is also called the Dadès Valley. This area also consists of an associated gorge. Visiting this sight in Morocco is especially suitable for nature lovers and hikers. On either side of the green Dadès Valley, you are embraced by huge rocks that together form an impressive wall of rock. This area owes its name to the Dadès River of the same name, which flows gingerly through the valley. Through the Dadès du Gorges also runs a well-traveled road, so you can also explore the area by car if you prefer. The route of about 60 kilometers offers you not only beautiful views, but also several nice stops.
You will find numerous small kasbahs where you can recover from all the beauty you see.
Do you prefer to go on foot? Through the Dadès Valley there are numerous beautiful hiking trails. Sometimes even through the river.
Along the way you will pass through small villages where it seems as if time has stood still. There are plenty of places to eat something or enjoy a refreshing snack.
The area is characterized by special trees such as fig and date trees.
You will find the Dadès du Gorges near Ouarzazate in the center of the country.
Chefchaouen in northern Morocco is a sight in itself. The color blue plays an important role here, as it does in history. The town that lives mainly from fishing and weed production used to be the home of the Jews. To thank God for this shelter, they painted their houses blue.
Still masses heed this special tradition. Walking through the narrow streets of Chefchaouen is highly recommended. The colors are beautiful and form a nice contrast to the carpets and flower boxes that decorate the walls. The town exudes peace and relaxation, but at the same time you can enjoy shopping in one of the many boutiques and shops.
Legzira Beach alone is impressive for its red arch formed by nature. Legzira beach is very suitable for a relaxing walk.
On the Dakhla peninsula you will find Dragon Beach. A walhalla for surf lovers because the wind here is always optimal. You can also kite here par excellence. The beaches feature bright white sand and azure water. The island is located at the western end of the Sahara Desert in Morocco.
Just an hour's drive from Nador, you will find a beach that is perfect for a day of relaxing and enjoying the sun. Climb the high rocks on the coast or take a dip in the clearest water. Charrana beach is not touristy so you can enjoy all the beauty around you undisturbed.
If you want to leave the hustle and bustle of Agadir for a while for some peace and nature, a trip to Plage Blanche Beach is well worth it. Rent a car and drive within 3.5 to 4 hours to this paradisiacal spot amid rugged coastlines and rocky landscapes. You will find this beach in Guelmim. You can enjoy high dunes, crystal clear waters and most importantly, peace and quiet.
Saïdia is the Morocco of the pristine Mediterranean, the Morocco of blue and warm waters, for holidays with family or friends. If you feel like taking a stroll around town, visit Oujda, its architectural heritage and intact medina will delight you!
With the sea on the horizon, 14 kilometres of white sandy beach and generous sunshine all year round: Saïdia is a slice of paradise, the seaside resort of choice in northern Morocco. Many activities are available at the water's edge or nearby, such as water sports or golf. In the evening, head to the marina to sample the region's specialities.
60 km inland from Saïdia, Oujda reveals the richness of its long history. Heritage is honoured here. There is the medina with its monumental gates, there is the Sebti Palace, a mecca of cultural life, and further on the Lalla Aicha Park, an oasis of freshness in the heart of the city.
Oujda-Saïdia is all this, the pleasures of the mind and those of recreation, enough to spend a wonderful stay!
POPULAR IN SAÏDIA
JANUARY-FEBRUARY
A great time to visit if you prefer to travel away from the crowds, allowing you to see Moroccans live their daily lives more authentically than during the warmer months. It is generally sunny and mild, but there is a chance of rain (good for wildflowers) and snow in the mountains. The desert is perfect to visit now, but gets very cold at night.
MARCH
The weather in March resembles the beginning of spring in any country. With flowers coming out and the sun shining, the weather is generally between 10°C and 20°C, depending on the region, although it can get cooler. Snow and rain become rare at this time of year, but it is best to pack clothes for all scenarios as it can be unpredictable.
APRIL-MAY
This is a popular time to visit due to favourable spring weather between 15°C and 35°C from the High Atlas Mountains to the desert. Given the diversity of the landscape, the weather can vary considerably from place to place and this is especially true in spring, when showers are common. Labour Day is held on 1 May. This can lead to the closure of some shops, banks and local schools, which can mean that key locations are busier with locals.
JUNE
June is one of the warmer months in Morocco, but several regions such as Essaouira and Tangier remain relatively cool as they are on the coast. If you are looking for tranquillity, Morocco in June is great to visit as tourism is relatively low compared to some of the other months. This is the last month to visit the desert area before there is an influx of insects and snakes in July and August, as well as often unbearable heat.
JULY - AUGUST
July and August are the hottest months in Morocco, so are not the ideal months to visit; however, they should not be excluded. If you want to escape the unpredictable summer in the US, this is a great time to visit. Coinciding with school holidays, this is a popular time for families; therefore, many hotels and riads are fully booked in advance, especially those with swimming pools.
Daytime temperatures can rise above 43°C so exploring and sightseeing is best done in the morning or evening, making this a good time to combine activities and relaxation. This is also a good time to visit the Atlantic coast, which can feel on the cold side at other times of the year.
Whether you are looking for water sports or delicious seafood, Essaouira is a summer highlight. The Atlas Mountains are cooler than the cities, although still very hot. While summer is not ideal if you want to do serious trekking, it is great for short morning walks and lying by a pool with panoramic mountain views.
SEPTEMBER
Cooling down after the hot summer months, September is an ideal time to visit Morocco as you can enjoy the pleasantly warm weather and clear blue skies the country has to offer as it enters autumn. The beaches are not so crowded with local holidaymakers, the cities welcome a gentle breeze and exploring the desert becomes pleasant again.
OKTOBEER
October is one of the best months to visit Morocco, as temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. This is a great month for hiking in the mountains and visiting the Atlantic coast, with temperatures dropping in November and Essaouira becoming very windy. As such, October is a month that fills up quickly, and trips for this time of year need to be organised far in advance.
NOVEMBER - DECEMBER
The last months of the year are a great time to explore Morocco's imperial cities. The sunny but cooler days provide a comfortable climate for exploring the colourful sights and sounds of Marrakech and Fez. Other regional centres, such as the coastal town of Essaouira and the High Atlas Mountains, are also not to be missed, but coastal winds and possible snow in the mountains will naturally make for colder weather; especially at night. One thing to keep in mind when considering travelling during the winter months is that not all riads - especially those in the north of the country - have adequate heating, so it is advisable to bring warm layers of clothing.
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