Travel Guides: All Countries / Africa / Morocco
 |  | Destination Guide : Morocco |
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| | | Kingdom of mystery and romance |  | Why go on holiday to Morocco?
Mysterious and romantic names such as Casablanca, Tangier and Marrakesh still beguile travellers. The ancient and diverse kingdom of Morocco is where Africa starts.
There's a genuine feeling of an ancient way of life around you.
How much does it cost?
You can get some great deals to Morocco but expect a seven-night half-board stay to costs from £400 upwards. Flight-only deals start at £230 at time of writing. You could pick up a cheap flight to southern Spain and get the ferry across.
When should I go?
Morocco has a variety of climates. Coastal weather is tourist-friendly all year, but it can get chilly at night. Rainfall is highest in the Rif and northern Middle Atlas mountains. The ski season lasts from December to March.
Average temperatures in Tangier and Casablanca range from about 12C (54F) in winter to 25C (77F) in summer. The country's interior can be scorching, especially when the desert winds blow in. Marrakesh can get up to 40C (104F).
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| | | Rock those kasbahs | | What should I do when I'm there?
The capital, Rabat, is an intriguing mix of old and new. Highlights include the incomplete Tour Hassan mosque, the Kasbah des Oudaias with its museum of traditional art, and the remains of the ancient city of Sala.
Casablanca these days is a large, brash metropolis, but still has a fascinating ancient quarter, or medina. Vivacious Marrakesh is blessed with vibrant markets, and Tangiers' seedy elegance still excites.
Fes is the oldest of the imperial cities, and its medina one of the world's largest living medieval metropolis - a must-see. Also worth visiting is the other imperial city of Meknes.
What about natural wonders?
Visit the Todra Gorge near Tinerhir, where the mountain scenery is spectacular. Trekking is big in Morocco; the two-day hike up Jebel Toubkal in the Atlas Mountains is the most popular route. There's also whitewater rafting up north.
Historians should visit Volubilis, the site of magnificent Roman ruins, 33km from Meknes. Chefchaouen, in the Rif mountains, is a lovely, quiet town with cool, clear air - definitely worth a visit.
And the beach life?
Agadir has one of the best beaches, with good sands and plenty of watersports. Essaouira has fewer package tourists and a lovely curved beach - it's also very windy, which is great for sailboarders but not so good for sunbathers.
The beaches north of Asilah on the north Atlantic coast are also popular.
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| | | Markets and mint tea | | Where's good for nightlife?
The major cities have plenty of bars and clubs, while hotels will put on traditional Moroccan displays of music and dancing.
Fes has a tradition of son et lumiere shows telling the city's 12th-century history. In Marrakesh, a smart option is the casino at the Hotel Mamounia.
What's the food like?
Moroccan cuisine comes highly recommended - by Robert Carrier, no less. French, Indonesian and Mediterranean influences make for spicy and exciting eating.
Popular dishes include harira, a thick soup; couscous; tajines, a slow cooked stew; and sfenji, deep fried doughnuts (buy them at market stalls). Markets are cheap and full of fresh fruits and glorious preserves.
Mint tea is the national brew, made with green tea, lots of sugar and fresh mint sprigs. Moroccans are mad for it.
What should I buy?
Arts and crafts play a large part in Moroccan life, and you can pick up some great stuff in the markets, or souqs. Carpets and rugs made by Arab or Berber women make a good, if not cheap, memento, as do other woollen goods such as sweaters or headwear.
Morocco's leatherwear is said to be the softest and highest-quality in the world, and the ceramics, brass and copperware, stone and woodwork are hard to beat. Herbs and spices are inexpensive and light to carry.
Enjoy a good browse, and don't be railroaded by shopkeepers using strong-arm tactics. Bargain hard!
What is there for children to do?
The cultural experience is very valuable for youngsters. Apart from the beaches to have fun on, hotels usually have a good activity programme for kids.
Young nature lovers will enjoy birdwatching in Morocco's national parks along the coast. Just don't go looking for big theme parks - that's not what Morocco's about.
Tourist office
Moroccan National Tourist Office, 205 Regent Street, London W1B 4HB. Tel. 020 7437 0073.
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| | Available rental properties in Morocco |
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| |  | | Darsal
Beautiful spacious Riad on a quiet street in heart of the old medina of Essaouira. Ideal for couples, families or groups.
|  | | 'Chez Nicola' Apartment
'Chez Nicola' is a beautiful and charming self-catering 2nd floor apartment in the heart of the ancient medina of Essaouira.
|  | | Chez Rebecca, Essaouira, Morocco
Light, airy and stylish rooftop apartment with panoramic views of Essaouira's histoiric medina and the Atlantic Ocean.
|  | | El Cherqui
El Cherqui is a two hundred year old house on a hill with an fantastic views.It has been featured in many style magazines & books.Car essential but not suitable for children.
|  | | Apartment Simoom
A delightful modern apartment three minutes stroll from the centre of Essaouira's famous beach.
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