MOROCCO
Welcome
Motto: الله، الوطن، الملك (Arabic) & ⴰⴽⵓⵛ, ⴰⵎⵓⵔ, ⴰⴳⵍⵍⵉⴷ (Standard Moroccan Tamazight) "God, Homeland, King"
Anthem: النشيد الوطني (Arabic) & ⵉⵣⵍⵉ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ (Standard Moroccan Tamazight) "National Anthem"
Morocco is located in the northwest corner of Africa and is bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Capital: Rabat 34°02′N 6°51′W.
Population: 36,767,655 million inhabitants.
Gross Domestic Product - GDP (PPP): $359.671 billion.
Official languages: Arabic & Berber (Amazigh).
Area: 710,850 km2.
Water (%): 0.056.
Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD).
Safety rating: Ranked 74 on the Global Peace Index with a score of 1.97.
Food
Couscous
Commonly served with meat or vegetables, it is almost impossible to leave Morocco without trying this popular dish. Couscous is tiny balls of semolina and is traditionally cooked in a steamer over a large metal pot filled with stew until it softens. Berbers often prepare massive portions of couscous to serve to others. The couscous is often accompanied by raisins and a bowl of sweet buttermilk infused with orange flower. This dish is often saved for holidays and special occasions such as weddings, funerals and the conclusion of Ramadan. Lucky for travelers, it can also be found in almost any restaurant in Morocco year-round.
Bastilla
This savory and unique pie features layered sheets of thin dough. Many are surprised to find this dish filled with a mixture of meat, parsley, onions, spices, and egg. When making bastilla, the cooking process is finished off with a top layer of icing, sugar, cinnamon, and more onions. Traditionally Bastilla was saved for special occasions and was sometimes made with meat from young pigeons. Today, Bastilla is made a lot cheaper and with more common meats such as chicken, beef or fish.
Tagine
Tagine is a staple on every Morrocan menu ranging from food stalls to famous restaurants. It is named after the conical clay shaped pot the dish is cooked in. The tagine pot features two halves- one being the wide, circular base and the other being the cone lid that helps trap the steam and moisture back into the stew. This entire cooking process is very unique and requires very little water. The dish features a warm stew with a mix of tender meat, vegetables and blend of spices. Tagine is almost always served with a slice of bread on the side.
Mint Tea
Also known as Morocco’s national drink, mint tea has an ancient history in this country. Mint tea is often described as borderline addictive with its green tea base and the addition of many mint leaves and sugar. Serving tea is a form of art in itself with servers showing off their skills in how high they can pour the drink out of the pot.
Zaalouk
With eggplant and tomatoes as the dish’s main ingredients, zaalouk is a popular dish you will find all over Morocco. It often has a smoky flavor due to the mix of its other ingredients of olive oil, garlic, coriander, cumin, and paprika. Find it next to your order of kebabs or tagine as either a salad or a savory dip. Try spreading it on some traditional Moroccan flatbread for a delicious snack or meal.
Harira
During the holy month of Ramadan, it is common that each day fast is broken at sunset with a hot bowl of harira soup. These bowls are filled with rich ingredients of lamb, chickpeas, tomatoes, lentils, chopped coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice. The soup is served alongside a sticky sweet pretzel known as chebakkiya.
Fish Chermoula
Morocco’s long Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines account for many national fish dishes, one of them being fish chermoula. Chermoula is the combination of many spices and herbs that are used to marinade the fish and act as a dipping sauce. Best made with the freshest catch of the day, this seasoning is extra tasty.
Briouats
This dish is very versatile! Briouats can best be described as deep-fried sweet puff pastry triangles filled with almond paste for a dessert. They can also be served as appetizers and made to be savory with fillings of chicken, beef, cheese or vegetables.
Snail Soup
Yes, you read that right. You can find snail soup at stalls all over Morocco, but this dish is most well recognized in Jamaa El Fna, located in Marrakech. The method of consuming this dish includes using a toothpick to pluck the snails from their shells before sipping on the salty broth. Many describe the snails as chewy but with an earthy, meaty flavor similar to mushrooms. Many Moroccans believe that this dish is good for digestion and in cases of fever.
Dates
With Morocco offering over 100 varieties of dates, you are going to need to try at least once while visiting Morocco. Dates are another food that is commonly eaten to breakfast during Ramadan. You can buy a wide selection of them by the pound from stalls in the bustling market square for super cheap. Choose to eat them fresh right away or save them for a later time cooking. If just looking to try a small amount for the first time, try some dates in one of your tajine dishes.
Stuffed Msemen
In a rush? Stuffed msemen is flattened square-shaped dough kneaded together with a mixture of peppers, onions, and tomato. This dish is then grilled, rolled, and then ready to serve on-the-go. Look for the street food msemen vendors surrounding the medina in Marrakech. Msemen allows your shopping adventures to not have to stop!
Transportation
Air
Generally, Morocco enjoys very extensive and convenient external transportations. There are plenty of direct flights operated from countries across Europe, the Middle East, West Africa and North America. Casablanca is the most popular gateway city for foreign tourists, and Royal Air Maroc operates non-stop flights to Casablanca from New York and Montreal. Menara Airport in Marrakesh is also a busy hub for international flights into the country.
Rail
From Paris of France, there are direct trains bound for Morocco daily, with a duration of 6 hours. In the other parts of France like Menton, Nice, Toulouse, Cannes, Grasse and Vintimille as well as Arcs, there are also a number of TER trains leading to Morocco. Every 15-30 minutes, there will be a train available, and all the train will make a stop at the Monte Carlo of Morocco.
Bus
From Nice in the southeast France, there are public buses No. 100 running to Menton via stops in Morocco, including Cimetière, Place d’Arme, Princesse Antoinette, Monte-Carlo (Casino), Places des Moulins and St Roman. The buses depart frequently, at an interval of about 15-20 minutes. In weekdays, you can also opt for express bus X100 for the same route, and the whole duration from Nice to Menton is about 30 mins.
Sea
Morocco is a coastal country, so ferry is one of the most convenient travel methods to get to the country. There are extensive ferry routes between northern Morocco and southern Europe, and the most popular one sails from Algeciras (Spain) to Tangier. Ferries run at an interval of about 90 minutes, and even hourly in busy seasons of summer. The duration of the voyage usually takes about an hour. Besides, there are also ferries running from Almería to Melilla and Nador, while they are limited to a few departures a week.
Flights
There are mainly two airlines in Morocco. One is the Royal Air Maroc, which is the magnate and dominant airline, while the other is a much smaller one named Regional Airlines. Nearly all domestic flights are operated through the hub Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca. Air service is available in other popular travel destinations, such as Tangier, Nador, Oujda, Fez, Errachidia, Marrakesh, Essaouira, Agadir, Laayoune and Dakhla. Traveling by air is relatively expensive but might be the best option if you are pressed for time.
Trains
Morocco is blessed with very convenient rail service. A train ride is the most ideal option to travel between big cities. There are two main rail routes: one is from Tangier down to Marrakesh via Rabat and Casablanca, and the other is from Nador in the northeast down to Marrakesh passing by Fez and Meknes. Between Casablanca and Rabat, trains are especially frequent, which depart about every 30 minutes.
Concerning to the cost and speed, there are two types of trains for your choice, including Rapide (Train Rapide Climatisé, TCR) and Ordinaire (Train Navette Rapide, TNR). The former onee is usually served between cities at a closer distance, which are faster and more comfortable. Ordinary trains has no air-conditioning, and they mostly depart or arrive in late night. For long-distance rides like Tangier–Marrakesh and Oujda–Casablanca, there are overnight trains with sleeping cabins.
Tour Bus
Among major traveling destinations such as Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech, there are frequent buses running between, which are even more convenient than trains. There are two major state-run bus companies, namely CTM and Superatours. CTM buses are faster, cleaner and more comfortable, which are highly recommended. The bus price is similar to that of a train between two cities, but there is an additional charge of 5 UAE dirhams per baggage that needs to be paid when boarding. It is best to buy tickets in advance during holidays and busy tourist season.
Taxis
There are two kinds of taxis operated in Morocco, including Grand Taxi and Petit Taxi. Grand Taxis usually use Mercedes-Benz and they are mainly served for rides between close cities. Such taxi is spacious enough to accommodate 6 passengers at most. Usually the drivers will not use the meters device, so you’d better agree on a negotiated price before boarding. If you miss the intercity bus, Grand Taxi would be a good choice, as the price is similar to that of a bus, even a bit cheaper.
Petit taxi is the most popular travel method within a city for travelers. One taxi can accommodate 3 passengers at most, and you can require the drivers to charge by meters. The flag-fall price is 1.40-1.80 dirhams per kilometer, with an increase of 2 dirhams per kilometer after. In general, a one-way taxi ride in the city will cost no more than 20 dirhams. At night, there will be an additional rate of 50%.
Electric Trams
Cities like Casablanca and Rabat are facilitated with modern tram networks, which are a speedy and cheap way to explore those cities.
Best things to do
Morocco offers an incredibly diverse and heady mix of cultures and scenery. With stunning mountains, buzzing cities and endless deserts, the country has so much to offer and seems to change with every visit. A fascinating melting pot of cultures and religion, you’ll be immersed in cultural influences from around the world, architectural marvels and tons of historical intrigue. Magical, mysterious and utterly captivating. This is the ultimate destination if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and memories to treasure for years ahead.
Sahara Desert
Local Berbers with their camels in the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert
The world’s largest hot desert, the Sahara Desert, maybe one of the most inhospitable places to live but it’s a pretty magical place to visit. From sunset camel rides across the huge rolling sand dunes, to dinner under the stars before star gazing around the campfire. An experience that will live with you forever!
Local Cuisine
Traditional moroccan tajine of chicken with salted lemons and olives
Morocco is filled with flavour, in every sense of the word but no more so than their cuisine. The array of spices will awaken your taste buds with local dishes such as tagine’s accompanied by fluffy couscous or sweet pastry pastillas and of course, the obligatory mint tea which is to be consumed at any time of the day in Morocco! If you’re really into your food then why not take a cooking class so you can literally bring a taste of Morocco back home with you.
Marrakesh
The narrow streets of the souks in Marrakesh’s medina
On your first visit to Marrakesh it feels like a different world. At its heart is the Jemaa el Fna, the home of Marrakesh’s street food and live entertainment from acrobats, dancers, musicians creating an unforgettable atmosphere in the evening. Spend your days getting lost in the chaotic souks and barter with the local stall-keepers. Add to this the ancient and ornate palaces and there is plenty to marvel at. For those looking for nightlife a little closer to home then visit Gueliz, the French Quarter, just outside the medina where you’ll find an array of lively bars and restaurants.
Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains loom large over Marrakesh creating a gateway into the south of the country and the Sahara Desert. It offers some fantastic hiking, including Mount Toubkal which stands at 4,165m – a challenging ascent even for experienced trekkers! For those who like the unusual, how about skiing at Morocco’s only ski resort at Oukaïmeden, a truly surreal experience!
Fez
The leather tanneries of Fez
Fez is arguably what Marrakesh was years ago, it’s more authentic, less touristy and the world’s largest car-free urban area. The usual donkeys’ carts, bikes make their way down the warren of alleyways, and in parts, you’ll find the somewhat charming ruins of the city’s medieval past. Given the size of the medina, a guide is recommended and be sure to visit famed leather tanneries. Finish your days of exploration enjoying the soothing sounds of the call to prayer, our favorite in Morocco.
Hammam
The hammam at glamourous La Mamounia hotel
No trip to Morocco would be complete without indulging in a traditional Moroccan hammam. And you’ll probably need it after all the dust and drama haggling in the souks and exploring. Luckily enough, Morocco does pampering extremely well and a good hammam, or Turkish bath, will revive your senses and melt away any stresses, aches and pains leaving you feeling light, refreshed and your skin rose-petal soft so you can face another day of mayhem. One tip, if you’re planning to work on your tan then a Hammam at the beginning of your trip is recommended!
Essaouira
A surfer negating the camels to get to the sea by Essaouria
The coastal town of Essaouira is far more chilled than the like of Marrakesh and Fez with its hippy vibe. Often referred to as the windy city of Africa it consistently provides just that so be prepared but for this very reason, it’s also popular with wind and kite surfers. Essaouira offers a far more European feel with its white and blue buildings combined with the usual souks, art galleries and some fabulous boutique hotels and raids. Unsurprisingly there is also some delicious, fresh seafood on offer so be sure to take advantage.
Chefchaouen
The colourful blue streets of Chefchaoen
Although most of us struggle to pronounce Chefchaouen (chef-chow-en), most of you will recognise the shades of blue of Morocco’s most eye-catching city from social media. The Blue Pearl, as it’s known, offers more than just the perfect Instagram shot though. Set high up in the mountains, making the town a pleasure to explore many bars and restaurants offering fabulous views. Don’t miss the beautifully restored kasbah off the Plaza Uta El Hammam.
Ait Ben Haddou
The ancient citadel of Air Ben Haddou in southern Morocco
From whichever entrance you approach this mud-brick Kasbah from you’re bound to feel as though you’ve seen it before somewhere and you’re absolutely right. Lawrence of Arabia, The Jewel of the Nile, Living Daylights, Indiana Jones, Gladiator and most recently Game of Thrones have all featured this UNESCO world heritage site as Ait Ben Haddou and there are many more! Enjoy a wander through the red clay mudbrick streets of the town winding your way up to the viewpoint above the ancient town.
Accommodation
Ornate decorated, oasis of calm in the courtyard of one of Morocco’s many Riads
Accommodation is probably what sets Morocco apart from almost anywhere else in the world as it’s so unique filled with the character of the country. It’s easy to be tempted by the seemingly fabulous deals from the bigger, more standard hotels that surround the big cities but you really will be missing out of the magical experience of staying in a Riad. Riad’s are ornately decorated old private homes that have been converted into guesthouses, typically they are 3-4 stories high and have 4-8 rooms surrounding a central courtyard with a dipping pool and a terrace on the top floor creating the perfect zen environment away from the chaos of the souks. In the more rural areas, you’ll likely encounter Kasbahs which resemble fortified castles and although more spacious they are just as charming. Then, of course, let us not forget the Bedouin tents of the Sahara Desert!
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Morocco is Autumn (September-November) or early spring (March-April). The weather is warm, but you will avoid the extreme temperatures of the scorching heat and cold nights. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, there's something special about Morocco. Yes, it can be super hot in summer. Yes, winter in the mountains can deliver almost freezing temperatures. There are a number of important factors to take into consideration when planning your adventure to Morocco and, like a good buffet, you'll be able to pick the best bits.
When to visit the see the Sahara?
Probably autumn (September–November) or early spring (March-early April). With scorching heat in summer and plummeting night-time temperatures in winter, avoiding these extremes will make your desert stay more comfortable. The seasons in between can provide ideal conditions to head out in the arid landscapes, but keep in mind that unexpected sandstorms happen in the desert, especially during April, and they're not pleasant to get caught in. Whatever time you decide to travel to the Sahara, be sure to pack extra layers to protect your skin and face from the overhead sun and swirling sands. They'll also help to keep you warm at night, when temperatures can drop significantly, even in the warmer months.
When to visit to enjoy the coast?
Travellers flock to the coastline between June and September when soaring temperatures bring perfect beach weather. Consider visiting Tangier, Essaouira and Taghazout during this time, perhaps hanging ten at a surfing lesson or joining in on a morning yoga class. Water temperatures around Tangier often hit an ideal 25°C (77°F) in August – prime conditions for swimming, hanging with the locals and feasting on chargrilled seafood on the waterfront. This might not be the image of Morocco you've got in your head, but it sure is a picturesque one.
When to visit to beat the crowds?
Morocco's a popular tourist destination year-round, but some parts of the year see bigger crowds rolling in. Inland tourist hotspots like Marrakech, Fes and Chefchaouen experience their busiest times during autumn and spring, thanks to the warm but pleasant temperatures. The coastal areas of Tangier and Essaouira are most popular during summer, with sea breezes taking the edge off the sweltering temperatures and the option to just jump in the ocean if you've overheated! Mountainous areas and the Sahara are also popular in autumn and spring.
If you can deal with some chilly nights and snow on the mountains or inland heat that may get super spicy, then travelling in the months of November–January or May-August are the best times to avoid large crowds.
When to visit to experience Islamic tradition?
Morocco's population is predominately Islamic, so there are certain religious events during the year that can affect your travel plans no matter where you are in the country. One such time is Ramadan, the dates of which change but usually fall in April or May. During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by Muslims across the world as a time of spiritual rejuvenation and for this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. The period of Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration. For the duration of Ramadan, expect a lot of restaurants, shops and other establishments to have altered hours, with the exception of hotels. There may be interruptions to your travel schedule; however, this shouldn't put you off travelling during this time! It's quite a sight to see hundreds or even thousands of worshippers descend on local mosques for evening prayers and then spill onto the streets and city markets to enjoy their iftar (breaking the fast) meal.
When to visit to beat the heat?
It may come as no surprise, but Morocco can get mighty hot. For those not comfortable with high temperatures, avoiding mid-summer madness is obviously a good idea. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) and for some people travelling and seeing the sights, especially inland, in this type of weather is uncomfortable. The best time to visit if you like warm – but not too warm – weather is autumn (September–November) or spring (March-May).
Quick tips
Perched on the tip of northern Africa, Morocco weaves together European, African, and Middle Eastern traditions and cultures into one seamless fabric. Whether travelers find themselves drawn to the bustling streets and souks in the capital of Marrakech, a Moroccan cooking class, camel treks into windswept desert, or a hot-air balloon flight over the craggy peaks of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco does not disappoint. Popular day trip destinations outside of the capital include the port cities of Casablanca, Essaouira, and Tangier, as well as Fes, a city famed for its walled medina, medieval architecture, and old-world atmosphere.
Much of Morocco's economy is dependent on tourism, and many locals have decided to prey on visitors with scams and 'tourist traps' that can catch even a seasoned traveler by surprise. Many Moroccans don't want you to take their pictures. Petty crime and pickpocketing is a common problem in Morocco, especially around souqs and medinas. Keep your valuables safe by carrying small amounts of cash, not wearing expensive jewellery, and keeping money or valuables out of sight and easy-to-reach pockets. When purchasing goods at markets, be prepared for aggressive begging and selling tactics from vendors, especially if they are aware that you have a lot of cash on you. An aggressive approach to begging is also quite common around ATMs in tourist hotspots. Above all, leave your passport and spare cash locked securely in your hotel safe.
When sightseeing around tourist hotspots in Morocco's main towns and cities, you may come across people who say they are official 'tour guides' or a 'helpful local'. Be wary of these services – there are many unlicensed tour guides, especially in Fes and Marrakech, who will offer to take you – at an inflated price – to establishments where they make commission on any purchases made. Do your research on city tours, and if you do get approached on the streets, be firm and direct in declining their offer. Sometimes, they may still demand payment even if they just followed behind you for a section of your sightseeing. They may say 'no money', but they'll want to be paid.
Taxis in Morocco, like many countries around the world, are often a tourist trap. When travelling by taxi in Morocco, always negotiate a price up front, as many drivers will inflate the price substantially when you arrive at your destination.
