Morocco: Impact of tourism
Water is a scarce resource in Morocco, and tourists use a lot of it when they stay in hotels and swim in pools--and especially when they go golfing. A single 18-hole golf course requires 3500 m/day of water, which is 3.5 times as much as the average Moroccan consumes in a whole year. While traveling, we've seen several fancy golf courses in locations not far removed from houses without running water.
There's been a big increase recently in use of 4 x 4 vehicles for recreation and travel in the desert. These vehicles break the fragile crust which normally reduces soil erosion in sandy areas. During dry periods, scientists have measured a 4000 % increase in airborne particulates in areas where 4 x 4s regularly operate in the desert. Near Merzouga, we raced across sand dunes and black rock desert in 4 x 4s. It was a great way to come into contact with people living or working in remote locations, and some people are using this kind of transportation to support new "nomad schools". (I'm very interested in learning more about those schools.) But destabilized dunes often destroy important sources of water. Travel by camel doesn't have the same impact. We rode camels one day too, and I can't say I like that form of transportation any more than I like automobiles; in both situations, I am a terrible back-seat driver without much interest in taking the "wheel". But camels don't damage the desert in the same way that 4 x 4s do.
Morocco has done a better job than many countries with development of local tourist operations (hotels, guide agencies, transportation). But a lot of tourist dollars still "escape" the Moroccan economy because they are pumped into chain hotels owned by multinational corporations.
A Moroccan NGO recently released a study calling for better protection of coastal, mountain and desert areas that are attractive to tourists, with simultaneous consideration of the aspirations of local people. This study is consistent with UNESCO's definition of "sustainability"", which addresses environmental, cultural, economic and political issues framed by high standards for social justice.
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Vegetation And Animals Of Morocco
Vegetation And Animals Of Morocco
Morocco's vegetation and animals are the most important part of the country's ecosystem. Home to world's largest desert, the Sahara, Morocco has some of the most interesting flora and fauna that is a must for every visitor.
The country of Morocco has a huge variety not just in the landscape but eventually its climate and even its vegetation. The climate in the north is Mediterranean, Atlantic to the west and dry Saharian to the south. The winters are nice and cold though a bit humid, while the summers are hot and arid. There is ample sunshine through out the years and more than 8 hours per day which helps a variety of vegetation to grow. You can also find a wide variety of animal life though not as rich as the flora.
Vegetation or the Flora of Morocco
The kingdom of Morocco is extremely rich in unique species of plants. The Mediterranean coastal climate is very good and favorable for the healthy growth of great vegetation. You would find Cork Oak is large numbers is northern parts of this country. The costal vegetation is prominently a large exotic collection of Casuarina, Eucalyptus, Citrus, Loquat, Acacia and many others. In the wetter places there are vast meadows and orchards with plants such as fennel commonly found.
There is a substantial part of the Middle Atlas which is mere remnant of the Cedar forest that existed in this region though it covers an impressive amount of area. Generally in the mountainous steppe regions you will find unique species of shrubs, jujube trees, mastics, poplars, tamarisks and willows. The overall vegetation is Mediterranean in the mountains with thuya, holm oak, juniper etc. the plains mostly have cork oaks, olive trees and the argan trees. In the interior region it is mostly the esparto plants and the artemisia plants that are found. The Alpine zone is typically above the 2500m and mostly supports Vicia canescens in huge quantity. The hundred odd species of plants found here are exclusive and found nowhere else. The Vicia canescens are not palatable to goats which has saved them from being grazed unlike other plants.
The Argan forest is the last barrier that stands strong between desertification and Morocco. These forest have the high value Argan trees that are useful in cosmetics and creation of medicines. With some dangers from the fishing and farming communities there are national parks that have been planned to conserve these Argan forests. These trees not only have cosmetic value they also have great resistance to droughts and have capability to adjust to the environmental changes. These have to be saved with assistance of locals to ensure that further desertification is stopped.
Even the Sahara desert is home to some herbs and small shrubs. Where the moisture levels are higher you may find larger shrubs. You would often find the bushes widely spaced. Generally in the steppe areas the scrub vegetation is mostly climax vegetation like Ephemerals in north and halophytes in sandy areas. Overall the sandy desert does not support much vegetation.
The vegetation is precious and efforts are being taken to ensure that it is saved from extinction as it will help slow down desertification.
The Animal Kingdom Of Morocco
Morocco has plenty of wildlife and has a government that is equally conscious about wildlife conservation. Lets take a look at some of Morocco's wildlife and the efforts involved in their conservation.
The animal kingdom of Morocco is not as rich as the flora. The Lions and a form of red deer that inhabited the country have gradually become extinct. But you would surely find other species like panthers, jackals, foxes and gazelles in most parts of the country. You may also find the North African Cheetah in some parts in small numbers. Though scientists haven’t been able to spot many cheetahs, local nomads confirm their existence in the country but surely in lesser numbers.
The fauna is an interesting mix of the species from the Palaearctische Region and African region. There are some species of small Dorcas Gazelles that can survive on water it gets from plants it eats. The only monkey found in Morocco is the Magot, which is rare as deforestation is taking a toll on it. The smallest foxes, the fennec fox are also found near the Sahara desert that survive on insects, lizards and fruits. Another one from the canine family is the Sloughi called also as Arabian sighthound, which comes from the same family as greyhounds and salukis.
There is a wind range of lizards and skinks found in the deserts of the Sahara. You may find lizards like the Atlas Dwarf Lizard, which are endemic to Morocco, as they have a natural habitat with temperate shrub lands and rocky areas. Manuel’s skinks, Ebner’s skinks are some of the species that have been largely endangered by some agricultural practices. There are some species of newts like the Iberian Ribbed Newt that can be found here.
You would also be able to catch a glimpse of different species of birds like Flamingos, Pelicants, Falcons, Buttonquails, storm-petrels, sandpipers, small species of bats, mapies, larks, swallows, martins etc. There are three species of Divers – the red throated, black throated and the great northern diver found in Morocco. Grebes, which are the fresh water diving birds can also be found. The lammergeyer, dark chanting goshawk and tawny eagle are also nearly extinct from Morocco.
The Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea are home to some rich ocean wildlife. Though affected by the fish poaching as well as due to over fishing and contamination of waters there has been a reduction in number of fishes like mullets, sea beams, marlin, sea perch, grouper, tuna, barracudas and swordfish. You may also find fish in the tranquil lakes and rivers. These are home to fish like carp, perch, black bass, trouts, barbell, eel and roach. However, with the number of fishes on a lower side there are many restrictions that are being implemented. If you have the required permit you may hire fishing vessels to go deep sea fishing from the ports of Mohammedia and Saharan.
The kingdom of Morocco provides animal and adventure lovers great opportunities to explore the flora and fauna in all landscapes of the country and catch a glimpse of some exotic varieties more than any place else.
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Morocco's vegetation and animals are the most important part of the country's ecosystem. Home to world's largest desert, the Sahara, Morocco has some of the most interesting flora and fauna that is a must for every visitor.
The country of Morocco has a huge variety not just in the landscape but eventually its climate and even its vegetation. The climate in the north is Mediterranean, Atlantic to the west and dry Saharian to the south. The winters are nice and cold though a bit humid, while the summers are hot and arid. There is ample sunshine through out the years and more than 8 hours per day which helps a variety of vegetation to grow. You can also find a wide variety of animal life though not as rich as the flora.
Vegetation or the Flora of Morocco
The kingdom of Morocco is extremely rich in unique species of plants. The Mediterranean coastal climate is very good and favorable for the healthy growth of great vegetation. You would find Cork Oak is large numbers is northern parts of this country. The costal vegetation is prominently a large exotic collection of Casuarina, Eucalyptus, Citrus, Loquat, Acacia and many others. In the wetter places there are vast meadows and orchards with plants such as fennel commonly found.
There is a substantial part of the Middle Atlas which is mere remnant of the Cedar forest that existed in this region though it covers an impressive amount of area. Generally in the mountainous steppe regions you will find unique species of shrubs, jujube trees, mastics, poplars, tamarisks and willows. The overall vegetation is Mediterranean in the mountains with thuya, holm oak, juniper etc. the plains mostly have cork oaks, olive trees and the argan trees. In the interior region it is mostly the esparto plants and the artemisia plants that are found. The Alpine zone is typically above the 2500m and mostly supports Vicia canescens in huge quantity. The hundred odd species of plants found here are exclusive and found nowhere else. The Vicia canescens are not palatable to goats which has saved them from being grazed unlike other plants.
The Argan forest is the last barrier that stands strong between desertification and Morocco. These forest have the high value Argan trees that are useful in cosmetics and creation of medicines. With some dangers from the fishing and farming communities there are national parks that have been planned to conserve these Argan forests. These trees not only have cosmetic value they also have great resistance to droughts and have capability to adjust to the environmental changes. These have to be saved with assistance of locals to ensure that further desertification is stopped.
Even the Sahara desert is home to some herbs and small shrubs. Where the moisture levels are higher you may find larger shrubs. You would often find the bushes widely spaced. Generally in the steppe areas the scrub vegetation is mostly climax vegetation like Ephemerals in north and halophytes in sandy areas. Overall the sandy desert does not support much vegetation.
The vegetation is precious and efforts are being taken to ensure that it is saved from extinction as it will help slow down desertification.
The Animal Kingdom Of Morocco
Morocco has plenty of wildlife and has a government that is equally conscious about wildlife conservation. Lets take a look at some of Morocco's wildlife and the efforts involved in their conservation.
The animal kingdom of Morocco is not as rich as the flora. The Lions and a form of red deer that inhabited the country have gradually become extinct. But you would surely find other species like panthers, jackals, foxes and gazelles in most parts of the country. You may also find the North African Cheetah in some parts in small numbers. Though scientists haven’t been able to spot many cheetahs, local nomads confirm their existence in the country but surely in lesser numbers.
The fauna is an interesting mix of the species from the Palaearctische Region and African region. There are some species of small Dorcas Gazelles that can survive on water it gets from plants it eats. The only monkey found in Morocco is the Magot, which is rare as deforestation is taking a toll on it. The smallest foxes, the fennec fox are also found near the Sahara desert that survive on insects, lizards and fruits. Another one from the canine family is the Sloughi called also as Arabian sighthound, which comes from the same family as greyhounds and salukis.
There is a wind range of lizards and skinks found in the deserts of the Sahara. You may find lizards like the Atlas Dwarf Lizard, which are endemic to Morocco, as they have a natural habitat with temperate shrub lands and rocky areas. Manuel’s skinks, Ebner’s skinks are some of the species that have been largely endangered by some agricultural practices. There are some species of newts like the Iberian Ribbed Newt that can be found here.
You would also be able to catch a glimpse of different species of birds like Flamingos, Pelicants, Falcons, Buttonquails, storm-petrels, sandpipers, small species of bats, mapies, larks, swallows, martins etc. There are three species of Divers – the red throated, black throated and the great northern diver found in Morocco. Grebes, which are the fresh water diving birds can also be found. The lammergeyer, dark chanting goshawk and tawny eagle are also nearly extinct from Morocco.
The Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea are home to some rich ocean wildlife. Though affected by the fish poaching as well as due to over fishing and contamination of waters there has been a reduction in number of fishes like mullets, sea beams, marlin, sea perch, grouper, tuna, barracudas and swordfish. You may also find fish in the tranquil lakes and rivers. These are home to fish like carp, perch, black bass, trouts, barbell, eel and roach. However, with the number of fishes on a lower side there are many restrictions that are being implemented. If you have the required permit you may hire fishing vessels to go deep sea fishing from the ports of Mohammedia and Saharan.
The kingdom of Morocco provides animal and adventure lovers great opportunities to explore the flora and fauna in all landscapes of the country and catch a glimpse of some exotic varieties more than any place else.
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Morocco's Climate - There is a season for everyone
Morocco's Climate - There is a season for everyone
A friendly country like Morocco must have friendly weather conditions too. Whether you love the sunshine or singing in the rain, Morocco has a season to suit everyone.
Morocco is situated in the northeastern part of Africa. It is a very magnificent and diverse country with its own identity even though it is situated so close to Europe. There are not just various languages, cultures and customs but there are diverse landscapes also. It is home to exotic cities like Fez, Marrakech, as well as coastal villages. The country of Morocco has such a wide range of landscape that you have the snow peaked parts of the Atlas mountains, the arid land of Western Sahara as well as the beautiful Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches.
Morocco fairly has a moderate, subtropical climate with cool sea breezes from the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Mediterranean Sea. In the interior parts of the country the temperatures are more extreme. The summers are known to be extremely hot and the winters fairly cold. The average winter temperatures are 21º C (70 º F). In summers the temperature peaks up to 38ºC 100º F. It is mostly sunny the entire year. The summers are pleasantly warm. The time around April and May can be the best time to visit the country. If you visit the coastal region during July and August you may find it very pleasurable. However, inland and in the desert region it can become very hot during this time of the year and more so at Midday.
The temperature and climate vary with the terrain. In the desert region in the south and south eastern part of Morocco the temperature are high while in the mountain ranges it can be freezing during night time. You can find a very beautiful range of flora and fauna that can withstand log hot period of drought condition as well as the evergreen trees like cork oak, cedar and cypress. In some parts of Morocco you can also find olive and argan trees.
In the Atlas Mountains the temperature can go below zero degrees and you will find the mountain peaks snow capped throughout the year. While the winters are cold and rough, you will find the summers moderately warm. On the western slopes of Central and High Atlas the rainfall and snow are in significant amounts from November to April. During December to March you can even enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding.
In cities like Marrakech it is bright and sunny the whole year round. The summers feel pleasant and the hottest months are generally July, August and September with temperatures above36º C. There is no humidity at all and that makes these high temperatures bearable. In winters there can be a heavy downpour that leaves the night extremely cold.
In cities like Fez which has a continental climate the temperatures are extreme. The summers can be very hot with mercury rising to 45º C. similarly the winters are very cold with minimum temperatures going eve below 10º C. The best time of the year to visit Fez would be surely the spring and autumn when the weather is warm as well as dry. The average temperatures of cities are Marakkech and Rabat 71º F, Casablanca 69º F, Fez 66º F, Meknes 68º F and Tangier 66º F.
Though you can find sunshine the whole year through you can time your visits during early summers which can surely be pleasant with warm days and cool nights without any rains to disrupt your plans.
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A friendly country like Morocco must have friendly weather conditions too. Whether you love the sunshine or singing in the rain, Morocco has a season to suit everyone.
Morocco is situated in the northeastern part of Africa. It is a very magnificent and diverse country with its own identity even though it is situated so close to Europe. There are not just various languages, cultures and customs but there are diverse landscapes also. It is home to exotic cities like Fez, Marrakech, as well as coastal villages. The country of Morocco has such a wide range of landscape that you have the snow peaked parts of the Atlas mountains, the arid land of Western Sahara as well as the beautiful Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches.
Morocco fairly has a moderate, subtropical climate with cool sea breezes from the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Mediterranean Sea. In the interior parts of the country the temperatures are more extreme. The summers are known to be extremely hot and the winters fairly cold. The average winter temperatures are 21º C (70 º F). In summers the temperature peaks up to 38ºC 100º F. It is mostly sunny the entire year. The summers are pleasantly warm. The time around April and May can be the best time to visit the country. If you visit the coastal region during July and August you may find it very pleasurable. However, inland and in the desert region it can become very hot during this time of the year and more so at Midday.
The temperature and climate vary with the terrain. In the desert region in the south and south eastern part of Morocco the temperature are high while in the mountain ranges it can be freezing during night time. You can find a very beautiful range of flora and fauna that can withstand log hot period of drought condition as well as the evergreen trees like cork oak, cedar and cypress. In some parts of Morocco you can also find olive and argan trees.
In the Atlas Mountains the temperature can go below zero degrees and you will find the mountain peaks snow capped throughout the year. While the winters are cold and rough, you will find the summers moderately warm. On the western slopes of Central and High Atlas the rainfall and snow are in significant amounts from November to April. During December to March you can even enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding.
In cities like Marrakech it is bright and sunny the whole year round. The summers feel pleasant and the hottest months are generally July, August and September with temperatures above36º C. There is no humidity at all and that makes these high temperatures bearable. In winters there can be a heavy downpour that leaves the night extremely cold.
In cities like Fez which has a continental climate the temperatures are extreme. The summers can be very hot with mercury rising to 45º C. similarly the winters are very cold with minimum temperatures going eve below 10º C. The best time of the year to visit Fez would be surely the spring and autumn when the weather is warm as well as dry. The average temperatures of cities are Marakkech and Rabat 71º F, Casablanca 69º F, Fez 66º F, Meknes 68º F and Tangier 66º F.
Though you can find sunshine the whole year through you can time your visits during early summers which can surely be pleasant with warm days and cool nights without any rains to disrupt your plans.
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Tourism in Morocco - Hot spot for every visitor
Tourism in Morocco - Hot spot for every visitor
No one would like to miss out on such a culturally rich and environmentally friendly country. Morocco is a hot tourist destination for many people from every corner of the globe. The government has made a conscious effort to make tourism the number one industry in the country.
The Moroccan economy has been growing steadily for the last few years. It has been one of the most politically stable countries and has been working hard to boost the tourism industry, which has a high potential for growth. Morocco is called the land of mystery and a place worth a visit. The sun shines bright nearly 300 days of the years and makes for a good setting for some great vacations visiting deserts, beaches and snow capped mountains. There is such diversity you can hardly want to miss anything. The strong culture lures one and all to explore the colorful lives of the Moroccans.
Under the guidance of King Mohammed VI and his plan of Vision 2010, the Moroccan government is taking great efforts to improve infrastructure that is needed to support about 10 million visitors by 2010. Efforts are being taken to market Morocco as a cheap and exotic location yet safer for all tourists. Domestic tourism is also being popularized. The government is planning and executing good projects that are aimed at improving the rail and road links. The open skies policy has also allowed more airlines to come in into the country. The airports are being upgraded or new ones build to match the international standard and support larger number of air traffic. With improved relations with Algeria, the borders have been opened and air services between the two countries have resumed. The Algerian tourists are growing in numbers with tourists coming in to even visit family and friends in Morocco. There are popular ports like Casablanca and Tangier that often have cruise ships visiting. The road link as well as the rail link is also good between the major cities and tourist destinations making it the most popular mode of transport.
Morocco is popular for its pristine beaches rich in natural beauty. You can visit them the whole year round with little to worry, as the climate is fresh and pleasant. Tourists from France, Spain, Britain, Germany, Netherlands, etc love the large beaches resort on the long Atlantic coast. Agadir is one such town that is the favorite of many tourists. Moroccans living abroad form a large chunk of the tourists who visit Morocco every year. With its nearness to Spain and popularity with the French people, these tourists make for about 20% of its visitors. Though earlier beaches were the major tourist attractions, the modern tourist industry has also been capitalizing on ancient Roman and Islamic history. Most of the tourists visiting Morocco visit it to glimpse the cultural heritage of the country. The popular regions are Tangier, Agadir, Marrakech, Casablanca, Imperial cities, Quarzazate and Tarfaya.
The Atlas mountains pull the adventure lovers to it. They have such beauty hidden in its fold that you cannot leave Morocco without visiting it. The tow of Agadir is known for its coastal resorts and the beautiful beaches but it also forms the base for tours to the Atlas Mountains. Growth in adventure tourism in the Atlas and Rif Mountains has been stupendous. These mountains provide exciting trekking as well as mountain biking opportunities. There are great trails for hiking and you can go hours on end simply taking in the beautiful flora and fauna in the valleys. The diversity and the existence of the exotic variety of flora and fauna make it a nature lover’s paradise.
The opportunities to explore are many. A visit to Morocco cannot be complete without a camel ride to the deserts. Desert tourism is also being developed. You can have great memories of the deserts as you lie on the sands watching the twinkling stars above. It is simply a great experience. As you visit the cities and towns of Morocco you will be amazed at the culture and beauty of the Kasba and the Medina. The castles, gardens and the local markets are a must visit during your stay in Morocco. There is so much to see; nature reserves, sparkling rivers, ancient buildings, handicrafts, colored carpets to name a few. There are several museums that can give a glimpse to the country past glory.
You have to visit Morocco to believe and live the beauty of the country’s cultural heritage. There is so much to explore that one trip can hardly be enough to catch up with everything.
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No one would like to miss out on such a culturally rich and environmentally friendly country. Morocco is a hot tourist destination for many people from every corner of the globe. The government has made a conscious effort to make tourism the number one industry in the country.
The Moroccan economy has been growing steadily for the last few years. It has been one of the most politically stable countries and has been working hard to boost the tourism industry, which has a high potential for growth. Morocco is called the land of mystery and a place worth a visit. The sun shines bright nearly 300 days of the years and makes for a good setting for some great vacations visiting deserts, beaches and snow capped mountains. There is such diversity you can hardly want to miss anything. The strong culture lures one and all to explore the colorful lives of the Moroccans.
Under the guidance of King Mohammed VI and his plan of Vision 2010, the Moroccan government is taking great efforts to improve infrastructure that is needed to support about 10 million visitors by 2010. Efforts are being taken to market Morocco as a cheap and exotic location yet safer for all tourists. Domestic tourism is also being popularized. The government is planning and executing good projects that are aimed at improving the rail and road links. The open skies policy has also allowed more airlines to come in into the country. The airports are being upgraded or new ones build to match the international standard and support larger number of air traffic. With improved relations with Algeria, the borders have been opened and air services between the two countries have resumed. The Algerian tourists are growing in numbers with tourists coming in to even visit family and friends in Morocco. There are popular ports like Casablanca and Tangier that often have cruise ships visiting. The road link as well as the rail link is also good between the major cities and tourist destinations making it the most popular mode of transport.
Morocco is popular for its pristine beaches rich in natural beauty. You can visit them the whole year round with little to worry, as the climate is fresh and pleasant. Tourists from France, Spain, Britain, Germany, Netherlands, etc love the large beaches resort on the long Atlantic coast. Agadir is one such town that is the favorite of many tourists. Moroccans living abroad form a large chunk of the tourists who visit Morocco every year. With its nearness to Spain and popularity with the French people, these tourists make for about 20% of its visitors. Though earlier beaches were the major tourist attractions, the modern tourist industry has also been capitalizing on ancient Roman and Islamic history. Most of the tourists visiting Morocco visit it to glimpse the cultural heritage of the country. The popular regions are Tangier, Agadir, Marrakech, Casablanca, Imperial cities, Quarzazate and Tarfaya.
The Atlas mountains pull the adventure lovers to it. They have such beauty hidden in its fold that you cannot leave Morocco without visiting it. The tow of Agadir is known for its coastal resorts and the beautiful beaches but it also forms the base for tours to the Atlas Mountains. Growth in adventure tourism in the Atlas and Rif Mountains has been stupendous. These mountains provide exciting trekking as well as mountain biking opportunities. There are great trails for hiking and you can go hours on end simply taking in the beautiful flora and fauna in the valleys. The diversity and the existence of the exotic variety of flora and fauna make it a nature lover’s paradise.
The opportunities to explore are many. A visit to Morocco cannot be complete without a camel ride to the deserts. Desert tourism is also being developed. You can have great memories of the deserts as you lie on the sands watching the twinkling stars above. It is simply a great experience. As you visit the cities and towns of Morocco you will be amazed at the culture and beauty of the Kasba and the Medina. The castles, gardens and the local markets are a must visit during your stay in Morocco. There is so much to see; nature reserves, sparkling rivers, ancient buildings, handicrafts, colored carpets to name a few. There are several museums that can give a glimpse to the country past glory.
You have to visit Morocco to believe and live the beauty of the country’s cultural heritage. There is so much to explore that one trip can hardly be enough to catch up with everything.
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Chefchaouen -- a guide to Morocco's beautiful and relaxed mountain town.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen -- a guide to Morocco's beautiful and relaxed mountain town.
Chefchaouen is situated in the heart of Morocco's Rif Mountains. Chefchaouen (sometimes called Chaouen) is relaxed, with very affordable accommodations, and above all, quite stunning to look at. The streets and most of the buildings in the old part of town (medina) are painted a most brilliant sky blue. The mountains which you can see at the end of every cobbled street are rugged and majestic. The clear mountain light just adds a magical touch to the place. It's no wonder that Chefchaouen is a favorite destination for backpackers visiting Morocco (and it's not just the readily available supply of hashish). The main square in the medina is lined with cafes and filled to the brim with locals and tourist mingling easily.
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Chefchaouen -- a guide to Morocco's beautiful and relaxed mountain town.
Chefchaouen is situated in the heart of Morocco's Rif Mountains. Chefchaouen (sometimes called Chaouen) is relaxed, with very affordable accommodations, and above all, quite stunning to look at. The streets and most of the buildings in the old part of town (medina) are painted a most brilliant sky blue. The mountains which you can see at the end of every cobbled street are rugged and majestic. The clear mountain light just adds a magical touch to the place. It's no wonder that Chefchaouen is a favorite destination for backpackers visiting Morocco (and it's not just the readily available supply of hashish). The main square in the medina is lined with cafes and filled to the brim with locals and tourist mingling easily.
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Morocco: Top Attractions
Morocco: Top Attractions
Morocco is one of Africa's most popular destinations and with good reason. Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, Fes, the Atlas Mountains, the list is long on romance, culture, and history. Bazaars, medinas, riads, bubbly pipes and yes, excellent beaches make Morocco a wonderful starting point for an African adventure.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco
Morocco's top destinations for tourists. The best places to visit in Morocco include the imperial cities of Marrakech, Fes and Meknes. Morocco is also famous for its beaches and some the best seaside towns are represented by Essaouira, Tangier and Asilah. Natural wonders of Morocco include the Atlas Mountains the Sahara desert and the Dades Valley.
Best Things To Do in Morocco - Top 12 Things to do in Morocco's
What are the best things to do when you visit Morocco? Below is a list of the top 12 things I highly recommend you try to do when you visit Morocco. Enjoy a relaxing scrub at a local hammam, enroll in a cooking class, ski, surf, and get lost at the Fes tanneries. Eat a kebab alongside snake charmers in the Marrakech medina and stroll the blue...
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen, Morocco -- a travel guide in pictures. Discover Chefchaouen, one of Morocco's most beautiful and laid back towns in the heart of the Rif Mountains. Enjoy these images of Chefchaouen and find out how to get there, where to stay, where to relax, shop, sip mint tea and enjoy the fresh air in this sleepy little town.
Casablanca, Morocco
Facts and travel information about Casablanca, Morocco's commercial capital, largest city and main port. Find out where to eat, sleep, shop and play from my guide to Casablanca.
Sex and the City 2 in Morocco
Sex and the City in Morocco. Find out where the Sex and the City 2 girls rode camels, strolled through the markets (souks), shopped, sipped cocktails, and spent their nights. Get recommendations on where you could stay in Morocco at these SATC2 locations, and create your own fashionably exotic vacation.
Morocco's Atlas Mountains
Morocco's Atlas Mountains - Trekking in Morocco's Atlas Mountains
Majorelle Gardens, Marrakech, Morocco
Majorelle Gardens, Marrakech, Morocco
Images of Marrakech, Morocco
Images of Marrakech one of Morocco's oldest and beautiful cities. Photos include the famous souqs (bazaars), the old city walls, the central square Djemma el Fna, the tanneries and more.
Do You Need an Official Guide when Visiting Marrakech?
Do you need a to get an official guide when you visit Marrakech? Is it necessary to take a tour of Marrakech or is it possible to get around on your own? Find out what I recommend when you visit Marrakech. Getting lost is sometimes an advantage, but if it's your first time in Morocco, the medina may be a bit overwhelming.
Fes (Fez) Photo Gallery
Fes (Fez) Photo Gallery showing images of old Fes, the people, the streets, the tanneries, the mosques, the souqs and every aspect of daily life.
Do You Need A Guide to Visit Fes (Fez), Morocco?
Do You Need A Guide to Visit Fes (Fez), Morocco? The main attraction in Fes is the old walled city which is a maze of hundreds of little streets that are easy to get lost in. But if you don't mind asking for directions and enjoy a little adventure, then a guide is not strictly necessary.
Rabat, Morocco's Capital
Rabat, Morocco's capital city. Find out what to see in Rabat, where to stay and a brief history.
Casablanca
If you are looking for romance then perhaps you should skip Casablanca. While welcoming if you have been "roughing it" in other parts of Morocco, it is a modern city with modern conveniences and problems. This site offers you information on where to stay, what to see and do, where to eat and more. Casablanca is probably the most expensive city in Morocco.
The Dakar Rally
Information and fun facts about the Dakar Rally, the world's most gruelling off-road race. Motorcycles, cars and trucks race over 7000 miles from Europe through Africa. Originally the race went from Paris to Dakar but the route changes annually.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Morocco is one of Africa's most popular destinations and with good reason. Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, Fes, the Atlas Mountains, the list is long on romance, culture, and history. Bazaars, medinas, riads, bubbly pipes and yes, excellent beaches make Morocco a wonderful starting point for an African adventure.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco
Morocco's top destinations for tourists. The best places to visit in Morocco include the imperial cities of Marrakech, Fes and Meknes. Morocco is also famous for its beaches and some the best seaside towns are represented by Essaouira, Tangier and Asilah. Natural wonders of Morocco include the Atlas Mountains the Sahara desert and the Dades Valley.
Best Things To Do in Morocco - Top 12 Things to do in Morocco's
What are the best things to do when you visit Morocco? Below is a list of the top 12 things I highly recommend you try to do when you visit Morocco. Enjoy a relaxing scrub at a local hammam, enroll in a cooking class, ski, surf, and get lost at the Fes tanneries. Eat a kebab alongside snake charmers in the Marrakech medina and stroll the blue...
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen, Morocco -- a travel guide in pictures. Discover Chefchaouen, one of Morocco's most beautiful and laid back towns in the heart of the Rif Mountains. Enjoy these images of Chefchaouen and find out how to get there, where to stay, where to relax, shop, sip mint tea and enjoy the fresh air in this sleepy little town.
Casablanca, Morocco
Facts and travel information about Casablanca, Morocco's commercial capital, largest city and main port. Find out where to eat, sleep, shop and play from my guide to Casablanca.
Sex and the City 2 in Morocco
Sex and the City in Morocco. Find out where the Sex and the City 2 girls rode camels, strolled through the markets (souks), shopped, sipped cocktails, and spent their nights. Get recommendations on where you could stay in Morocco at these SATC2 locations, and create your own fashionably exotic vacation.
Morocco's Atlas Mountains
Morocco's Atlas Mountains - Trekking in Morocco's Atlas Mountains
Majorelle Gardens, Marrakech, Morocco
Majorelle Gardens, Marrakech, Morocco
Images of Marrakech, Morocco
Images of Marrakech one of Morocco's oldest and beautiful cities. Photos include the famous souqs (bazaars), the old city walls, the central square Djemma el Fna, the tanneries and more.
Do You Need an Official Guide when Visiting Marrakech?
Do you need a to get an official guide when you visit Marrakech? Is it necessary to take a tour of Marrakech or is it possible to get around on your own? Find out what I recommend when you visit Marrakech. Getting lost is sometimes an advantage, but if it's your first time in Morocco, the medina may be a bit overwhelming.
Fes (Fez) Photo Gallery
Fes (Fez) Photo Gallery showing images of old Fes, the people, the streets, the tanneries, the mosques, the souqs and every aspect of daily life.
Do You Need A Guide to Visit Fes (Fez), Morocco?
Do You Need A Guide to Visit Fes (Fez), Morocco? The main attraction in Fes is the old walled city which is a maze of hundreds of little streets that are easy to get lost in. But if you don't mind asking for directions and enjoy a little adventure, then a guide is not strictly necessary.
Rabat, Morocco's Capital
Rabat, Morocco's capital city. Find out what to see in Rabat, where to stay and a brief history.
Casablanca
If you are looking for romance then perhaps you should skip Casablanca. While welcoming if you have been "roughing it" in other parts of Morocco, it is a modern city with modern conveniences and problems. This site offers you information on where to stay, what to see and do, where to eat and more. Casablanca is probably the most expensive city in Morocco.
The Dakar Rally
Information and fun facts about the Dakar Rally, the world's most gruelling off-road race. Motorcycles, cars and trucks race over 7000 miles from Europe through Africa. Originally the race went from Paris to Dakar but the route changes annually.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Heading to Morocco? The tourism outlook for 2011.
Heading to Morocco? The tourism outlook for 2011.
When it comes to tourist hotspots, Morocco is one of the big hitters. Just a few hours’ flight away from Europe’s major cities, it plays a strong hand to city-breakers, and adventure- and sun-seekers alike. At nine million foreign visitors a year, it’s second only to Egypt as a North African holiday destination.
But Morocco isn’t immune to international events, and as North Africa and the Middle East experience the turmoil of the Arab Spring, many would-be visitors to Morocco are giving pause to wonder whether a holiday is still safe, feasible or appropriate. Admittedly, Morocco hasn’t seen the same upheavals that Tunisia or Egypt have experienced, let alone the violence in Libya, but confidence in tourism did take a knock with a bombing in a Marrakesh café in May, which was ascribed to Islamist militants, the first such attack in the country since 2003.
Tourism accounts for around 10% of Morocco’s GDP, but taken together, the bombing and headlines from the wider region look like making 2011 a quiet year for the Moroccan tourist industry. That said, none of this should necessarily have you reaching for your guidebooks to France or Italy instead. Morocco remains a safe holiday destination, and no governmental travel warnings currently advise against travel. The flipside of dropping visitor numbers means those heading to Morocco can find themselves some great guesthouse and hotel deals.
Let’s go!
Well-served by both budget and scheduled airlines, the main entry points to Morocco are Marrakesh, Casablanca, Fès and Tangier – the latter also being an important ferry point for visitors from Spain. In the summer, head for the cooling sea breezes of Essaouira and Asilah. The latter holds a three-week art festival in July, overlapping with Marrakesh’s Festival of Popular Arts.
Best time to go
If you’re free with your travel dates, you might want to consider avoiding visiting Morocco in August. Not only is this the hottest time of the year (Marrakesh is particularly scorching), but this year it coincides with Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. Restaurants catering to tourists aren’t affected, but it’s hot work on the tourist trail when you can’t just pop into the first café you see for a refreshing drink.
With autumn, Morocco is once again prime travelling territory. Accommodation prices rise, but everyone’s in high spirits after Ramadan. The beaches empty and even the desert benefits from gentle breezes. Now is the time to dive into the winding streets of the Fès medina (which celebrates its founder in a huge moussem or religious festival in September) or even snag yourself a wife at Imilchil’s Berber Marriage festival.
What to see
The warm days and cool nights of autumn are also ideal for seeing the best of natural Morocco. The High Atlas Mountains are the most popular destination for trekking – most notably for those wanting to tackle Jebel Toubkal, north Africa’s highest mountain, but there are plenty of lesser known areas, such as the gorgeous Ameln Valley in the Anti-Atlas. The more heavily wooded Rif Mountains in the north also offer good hiking opportunities, and an excuse to base yourself in the blue-washed town of Chefchaouen.
Tourism in Morocco might be taking a slight knock at the current moment, but there’s still plenty on offer for those ready to make the trip.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
When it comes to tourist hotspots, Morocco is one of the big hitters. Just a few hours’ flight away from Europe’s major cities, it plays a strong hand to city-breakers, and adventure- and sun-seekers alike. At nine million foreign visitors a year, it’s second only to Egypt as a North African holiday destination.
But Morocco isn’t immune to international events, and as North Africa and the Middle East experience the turmoil of the Arab Spring, many would-be visitors to Morocco are giving pause to wonder whether a holiday is still safe, feasible or appropriate. Admittedly, Morocco hasn’t seen the same upheavals that Tunisia or Egypt have experienced, let alone the violence in Libya, but confidence in tourism did take a knock with a bombing in a Marrakesh café in May, which was ascribed to Islamist militants, the first such attack in the country since 2003.
Tourism accounts for around 10% of Morocco’s GDP, but taken together, the bombing and headlines from the wider region look like making 2011 a quiet year for the Moroccan tourist industry. That said, none of this should necessarily have you reaching for your guidebooks to France or Italy instead. Morocco remains a safe holiday destination, and no governmental travel warnings currently advise against travel. The flipside of dropping visitor numbers means those heading to Morocco can find themselves some great guesthouse and hotel deals.
Let’s go!
Well-served by both budget and scheduled airlines, the main entry points to Morocco are Marrakesh, Casablanca, Fès and Tangier – the latter also being an important ferry point for visitors from Spain. In the summer, head for the cooling sea breezes of Essaouira and Asilah. The latter holds a three-week art festival in July, overlapping with Marrakesh’s Festival of Popular Arts.
Best time to go
If you’re free with your travel dates, you might want to consider avoiding visiting Morocco in August. Not only is this the hottest time of the year (Marrakesh is particularly scorching), but this year it coincides with Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. Restaurants catering to tourists aren’t affected, but it’s hot work on the tourist trail when you can’t just pop into the first café you see for a refreshing drink.
With autumn, Morocco is once again prime travelling territory. Accommodation prices rise, but everyone’s in high spirits after Ramadan. The beaches empty and even the desert benefits from gentle breezes. Now is the time to dive into the winding streets of the Fès medina (which celebrates its founder in a huge moussem or religious festival in September) or even snag yourself a wife at Imilchil’s Berber Marriage festival.
What to see
The warm days and cool nights of autumn are also ideal for seeing the best of natural Morocco. The High Atlas Mountains are the most popular destination for trekking – most notably for those wanting to tackle Jebel Toubkal, north Africa’s highest mountain, but there are plenty of lesser known areas, such as the gorgeous Ameln Valley in the Anti-Atlas. The more heavily wooded Rif Mountains in the north also offer good hiking opportunities, and an excuse to base yourself in the blue-washed town of Chefchaouen.
Tourism in Morocco might be taking a slight knock at the current moment, but there’s still plenty on offer for those ready to make the trip.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
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