AN ABUNDANCE OF PANORAMIC LANDSCAPES

Morocco’s unique geography on the westernmost tip of northern Africa gives it a wide range of climates and landscapes for visitors who are seeking variety in their travel experiences.

Morocco borders both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and benefits from their moderate climes and cool waters. The tree-covered inclines of the Atlas Mountain range cut across the middle of the country, and its are peaks often covered in snow during colder months. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Sahara runs along south and southeastern Morocco, offering dry desert temperatures and seemingly endless stretches of sandy dunes.

With a history stretching back several millennia, Moroccan culture is a unique blend of all those that have occupied its past. The Berbers, Romans, Jews and Arabs, Spanish Moors, Portuguese, and French have all left their mark on Morocco, whether in its languages, cuisine, or architecture.

Each city in Morocco possesses a distinct personality for visitors to discover, and experiences can be tailored to suit one’s preferences. Travelers can choose to stay in a traditional guesthouse in the medina - called a riad - or in a hotel or resort complete with all the modern amenities.

A WEALTH OF ART AND ARCHITECTURE

Morocco is known for producing beautiful handicrafts, and nowhere are these skills better exhibited than in Morocco’s souks, where visitors can shop for textiles, rugs, leather goods, furniture and jewelry, among many other things. Carpet weaving is an especially successful local industry, and Moroccan rugs are world-renowned for their quality of workmanship. 

Music and dance are a large part of Moroccan culture and will vary greatly by region. Traditional musical styles were shaped by the diverse peoples and tribes that make up the Moroccan people. One example is the reggada, which originates from the Rif war dance. Rif warriors would dance in victory over the enemy, and this can be seen in the use of a wooden gun and the foot strikes on the ground performed to the beat of the music. There is also the Gnawa music that has roots in sub-Saharan Africa and can be used in both spiritual and celebratory ways.

Moroccan architecture reflects both its traditional and colonial history. The country’s Islamic roots can be seen in the elegant geometric designs and ornamental interiors of mosques, hammams, and homes. Moorish Spain also exerted its influence, particularly in the northern part of the country, blending architectural features like arches and domes with prevailing Islamic designs. In the early 20th century, the French occupation in Morocco led to the introduction of building regulations that affected the architecture of the time.

DELECTABLE DISHES TO WHET THE APPETITE

Moroccan cuisine is a wonderful blend of Mediterranean, Berber, Arabic, African, and even Jewish cultural influences. It is fragrant, fresh, deliciously spiced, and nearly always accompanied by a glass of Moroccan mint tea and then followed with fresh fruit. 

Breakfast is traditionally a variety of breads, ranging from layered msemmen to traditional baguettes. The bread is served with cream cheese, honey, olive or argan oil. Hard-boiled eggs and yogurt often complete the meal.

Lunches and dinners are often a traditional tagine, couscous, or barbecued skewers of lamb, beef, or chicken. There are also a multitude of cooked and raw salads that precede the main course. Moroccans usually eat with their hands, using bread to scoop up the food.

A WARM AND WELCOMING CULTURE

Moroccan culture places importance on hospitality. Moroccans are warm and welcoming, eager to share the beauty of their country and culture with visitors. Most locals are happy to help those in need, and may befriend travelers and invite them for a cup of tea. In Morocco, tea is often offered to customers in shops and even market stalls. If a Moroccan host truly wants to welcome you, they will also offer you cookies with your tea - dates and milk are the highest form of welcome!