Morocco is a wondrous, eyes-open country with timeless and tranquil coastal villages, colour painted towns that cling to hillsides and remote outposts defended by fairytale adobe forts. It's also an adventure into some of North Africa's most stunning scenery with the desert on its doorstep and the craggy heights of the Atlas Mountains beyond. The past is always present in this diverse and colorful country.
TOP 8 PLACES TO VISIT
1.HASSAN II MOSQUE
The mosque is Casablanca’s landmark building was finished in 1993 and is not only a lavish symbol of the city, but also of Morocco itself. It took 10,000 artisans to complete the decoration details covering the mosque. Carved marble pieces, vibrant mosaics and zellige tile details pay tribute to traditional Islamic architecture, and yet still manage to feel contemporary.
2.VOLUBILIS
The number one Roman ruin in Morocco has a clutch of remarkable mosaics still interred where they were unearthed. The fumbled columns and temple remnants, standing as reminders that even the greatest empires eventually crumble. At the hilltop you have a view over the surrounding countryside, adding to the romantic ambiance of lost glory.
3.BAL AL-MANSOUR
Bal Al-Mansour is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guarding the entrance to the Meknes’ Imperial City the Mammoth Gateway is noted for its stunning decorations. It was meant to be a monumental reminder of the sultan's might - the Bab al-Mansour is a magnificent relic of Meknes' glorious era as capital.
4.ESSAOUIRA
This charming seaside village was an old hippie haunt in the 1970’s and hasn’t lost its authenticity. With colourful fishing boats, the old shore-side fort and twisty lanes makes the old town a delight to see.
5.DADES VALLEY
Ideal for hikers, trekkers and general nature-lovers, don’t miss a journey into the raw landscapes of the valley with snow capped peaks of the High Atlas. Dinky villages and bird spotting surround with lush fields as far as you can see.
6.TANGIER
The city is the most European of all the cities in Morroco. With a fascinating and slightly debauched role in the 20th century literary history, its past is what draws many tourists here. Works by Paul Bowles' "The Sheltering Sky" and William Burroughs' "Naked Lunch" was inspired here.
7.MEKNES
The Meknes is a 9th century medina surrounded by a 21st century city and is located in the north of Morocco. Several historical sites such as the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and Bab Mansour is a must see. A fascinating set of Roman ruins can be seen in the Dar Jamai Museum and hours drive from Vloubilis.
8.ESSAOUIRA
The 18th century town has a fortified medina and is small enough to explore on foot. Blue doors and window frames abound in Essaouira, as do art galleries, jewellery stalls and other handicraft stalls. Activities on offer is horse riding and wind surfing.
OTHER PLACES TO SEE
- Erg Chebbi
- Ait Ben Haddou
- Chefchaouen
- Fes el Bali
- Oudaias Kasbah
- Marrakesh Medina
- The Sahara
- FesMarrakech
- The Atlas Mountains
- Taghazoute
- Jemaa el-Fnaa
- Majorelle Garden
- Bahia Garden
- Toubkal
- Saadian Tombs
- Ouzoud Falls
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Chellah
- El Badi Palace
- Hassan Tower
- Todgha Gorge
The best way to get around in Morroco is by petit taxi, bus, grand taxi, pick-up truck and 4WD.
The country is at its most beautiful from mid-March to May when the landscape is green and lush, making for spectacular mountain hiking. Morocco is also lovely in from September to October when temperatures are very pleasant.
