Mother nature didn\u2019t hold back when she made Morocco. Just look at the High Atlas Mountains \u2013 extending almost 1000 kilometres across Morocco and reaching 13672 feet in height. In fact, local Berbers call \u2018Idraren Draren\u2019 the Mountains of Mountains for its colossal presence, which invites travellers to climb up and explore their villages, plus steep valleys, snow-capped peaks, wandering wildlife and glowing mountains lakes like Lac Ifni (pictured above). Just promise us you\u2019ll remember your camera.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. There are 4 unique imperial cities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nhttps:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/CanR-pcNrdY\/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMorocco\u2019s imperial cites Rabat, Marrakesh, Meknes and Rabat have all been Morocco\u2019s capital during their history. (That honour goes to Rabat today). But their aura and UNESCO-listed, maze-like medinas (old centres) have enchanted travellers for generations. Plus inspired writers, poets and filmmakers. You can find history at every turn in these cities: in mosques, tombs, arches street engravings and more. They all deserve a visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GET INSPIRED BY: Spain, Morocco and Portugal tour<\/a> (get 10% off)<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Marakkesh\u2019s Jemaa el-Fna is bucket-list worthy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nhttps:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/CfhUbFsszMm\/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIn the heart of Marakkesh\u2019s medina, the Jemaa El-Fna square is a magical maze of winding streets, food stalls and souks selling mountains of spices, lamps, jewellery and hand-woven fabrics. This gigantic square dates back to the founding of red-hued Marrakesh by the Almoravids in 1062 \u2013 and you can feel the pulse of the city in its sweet-smelling lanes. Plus you’ll get to put your best haggling skills to the test here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Local traders and terraces serving mint tea thrive here by day; while as the sun sets \u2013fortune tellers, snake charmers, musicians, belly dancers and magicians appear and create an intoxicating atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: Markets and bazaars from around the world to add to your bucket list<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Morocco is one of the world\u2019s most diverse countries<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nOne of our favourite facts about Morocco: it’s different ethnic groups make it even more special. Berbers (the indigenous people of North-west Africa) and Arabs (who conquered Morocco by 705 and spread Islam) are its two main groups. But past rule from Spanish, Romans, French and Jewish exiles mark the present culture and its people, languages, food, art, architecture and clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: What to know about Moroccan culture and etiquette before you go<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n5. From mosques to riads, there\u2019s amazing architecture everywhere<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Casablanca\"](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/07\/mosque-g9f4522259_1280-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFrom iconic mosques to colourful street corners \u2013 eye-catching architecture floods your vision wherever you go. Thanks to Morocco\u2019s diverse past, you can spot both Islamic and Hispano-Moorish inspired designs. Expect intricate patterns on palaces, fountain, kasbahs (historic fortresses), riads (sheltered outdoor areas at home), pottery, madersas (Islamic teaching schools) and ceramic tiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before you leave, you\u2019ll want to visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (pictured) \u2013 the second largest functioning mosque in Africa and a shining example of Moorish architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. The Medina in Fes is car-free<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nhttps:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/Ce-6c5oK5Oq\/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\u2018Morocco was an amazing experience, the Medina in Fes was unforgettable and dinner in the Riad magical.\u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n\u2013 Trafalgar Guest (Spain, Morocco and Portugal tour)<\/em><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nYou\u2019d be foolish not to spend time in northeast Morocco \u2013 and its cultural capital \u2013 Fes. Here, inside it\u2019s towering 10-mile long walls, you can wander over 10,000 alleys too narrow for cars, but just wide enough for chariots to carry hand-made goods to souks. Stop into a madrasa and admire the architecture. Or take your place in a traditional riad for an Arabian dinner with live music and belly dancing on Trafalgar\u2019s Spain, Morocco and Portugal tour<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. You can stand in the Sahara desert<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Sahara](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/07\/desert-gdaabe1372_1280-1024x685.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMorocco\u2019s slice of the Sahara desert is stunning. Located in the southeast, miles undulating, wind-swept sand dunes run away into the impossible distance. Time stands still. And the only sounds are delicate footsteps of a camel on a walking tour. And that\u2019s right \u2013 you could be next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Morocco tour<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nRELATED CONTENT: The best times of year to visit the Sahara desert<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n8. The souks will steal your heart<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"spices\"](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/07\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nA unique shopping experience, a souk can take a minute to blend into for first-timers. Inside a maze of colourful narrow lanes is a world of antiques, carpets, spices, trinkets, Aladdin-like lamps and other local crafts. Local merchants used to journey through here. But now the pleasure is all yours \u2013 including the (compulsory) haggling to get a fair price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
9. Moroccan food is diverse and delicious<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Moroccan](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/07\/morocco-ga05772a8f_1280-1024x657.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNothing spins the sense quite like Moroccan food. You\u2019ll find a range of Arabic, Berber, Mediterranean, Andalusian and European-influenced dishes here, meaning there\u2019s definitely one with your name on it. We recommend eating local couscous, taktouka (tomato, olive oil, paprika, peppers and parsley salad), and tagine (slow-cooked lamb stew bubbling with a tomato-like sauce and spices).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: 5 soul-stirring food Moroccan food experiences with Trafalgar<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n10. You can find the highest ski resort in Africa (Oukaimeden) here<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nhttps:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/CYy73y2LK19\/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis is one of the most surprising facts about Morocco. You might not associate skiing with Africa. But you will now; because about 80 kilometres from Marrakesh, nestled 2,600 metres above sea level in the snowy Atlas mountains, is Oukaimeden ski resort. It soars up to 3,200m at its highest peak (Jebel Attar) \u2013 presenting picture-perfect slopes for skiers of all levels, which are flanked by the colossal mountains and kissed by African sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
11. Casablanca has the only Jewish museum in the Arab world<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIn the port city of Casablanca (on Morocco\u2019s east coast), you can find the only dedicated Jewish museum in the Arab world. It celebrates Judaeo-Muslim culture and the mutual influences between the two religions. For example, Morocco\u2019s traditional textile patterns inspired the design of the clothing worn by Jewish women. And it commemorates Jewish history in Morocco (the first Jews settled here in 2nd<\/sup> century BC).<\/p>\n\n\n\n12. <\/strong>Morocco is blessed with beautiful beaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"facts](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/07\/beach-g5a24d9025_1280-1024x678.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, it makes sense that Morocco\u2019s 1930-kilometre coastline is peppered with some of the world\u2019s best beaches. Washed by refreshing waters, these spotless white sands offer the perfect cool-off from the bustling city centres. Our recommendation is the idyllic resort town of Essaouira \u2013 where surfing, sun-bathing or meandering the charming town medina is a great way to spend an afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GET INSPIRED BY: Morocco: A full destination guide (and tours)<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n13. You might never receive better hospitality<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Morocco\u2019s imperial cites Rabat, Marrakesh, Meknes and Rabat have all been Morocco\u2019s capital during their history. (That honour goes to Rabat today). But their aura and UNESCO-listed, maze-like medinas (old centres) have enchanted travellers for generations. Plus inspired writers, poets and filmmakers. You can find history at every turn in these cities: in mosques, tombs, arches street engravings and more. They all deserve a visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GET INSPIRED BY: Spain, Morocco and Portugal tour<\/a> (get 10% off)<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In the heart of Marakkesh\u2019s medina, the Jemaa El-Fna square is a magical maze of winding streets, food stalls and souks selling mountains of spices, lamps, jewellery and hand-woven fabrics. This gigantic square dates back to the founding of red-hued Marrakesh by the Almoravids in 1062 \u2013 and you can feel the pulse of the city in its sweet-smelling lanes. Plus you’ll get to put your best haggling skills to the test here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Local traders and terraces serving mint tea thrive here by day; while as the sun sets \u2013fortune tellers, snake charmers, musicians, belly dancers and magicians appear and create an intoxicating atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: Markets and bazaars from around the world to add to your bucket list<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n One of our favourite facts about Morocco: it’s different ethnic groups make it even more special. Berbers (the indigenous people of North-west Africa) and Arabs (who conquered Morocco by 705 and spread Islam) are its two main groups. But past rule from Spanish, Romans, French and Jewish exiles mark the present culture and its people, languages, food, art, architecture and clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: What to know about Moroccan culture and etiquette before you go<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n From iconic mosques to colourful street corners \u2013 eye-catching architecture floods your vision wherever you go. Thanks to Morocco\u2019s diverse past, you can spot both Islamic and Hispano-Moorish inspired designs. Expect intricate patterns on palaces, fountain, kasbahs (historic fortresses), riads (sheltered outdoor areas at home), pottery, madersas (Islamic teaching schools) and ceramic tiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you leave, you\u2019ll want to visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (pictured) \u2013 the second largest functioning mosque in Africa and a shining example of Moorish architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2018Morocco was an amazing experience, the Medina in Fes was unforgettable and dinner in the Riad magical.\u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n\u2013 Trafalgar Guest (Spain, Morocco and Portugal tour)<\/em><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n You\u2019d be foolish not to spend time in northeast Morocco \u2013 and its cultural capital \u2013 Fes. Here, inside it\u2019s towering 10-mile long walls, you can wander over 10,000 alleys too narrow for cars, but just wide enough for chariots to carry hand-made goods to souks. Stop into a madrasa and admire the architecture. Or take your place in a traditional riad for an Arabian dinner with live music and belly dancing on Trafalgar\u2019s Spain, Morocco and Portugal tour<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Morocco\u2019s slice of the Sahara desert is stunning. Located in the southeast, miles undulating, wind-swept sand dunes run away into the impossible distance. Time stands still. And the only sounds are delicate footsteps of a camel on a walking tour. And that\u2019s right \u2013 you could be next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Morocco tour<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: The best times of year to visit the Sahara desert<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A unique shopping experience, a souk can take a minute to blend into for first-timers. Inside a maze of colourful narrow lanes is a world of antiques, carpets, spices, trinkets, Aladdin-like lamps and other local crafts. Local merchants used to journey through here. But now the pleasure is all yours \u2013 including the (compulsory) haggling to get a fair price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nothing spins the sense quite like Moroccan food. You\u2019ll find a range of Arabic, Berber, Mediterranean, Andalusian and European-influenced dishes here, meaning there\u2019s definitely one with your name on it. We recommend eating local couscous, taktouka (tomato, olive oil, paprika, peppers and parsley salad), and tagine (slow-cooked lamb stew bubbling with a tomato-like sauce and spices).<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: 5 soul-stirring food Moroccan food experiences with Trafalgar<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This is one of the most surprising facts about Morocco. You might not associate skiing with Africa. But you will now; because about 80 kilometres from Marrakesh, nestled 2,600 metres above sea level in the snowy Atlas mountains, is Oukaimeden ski resort. It soars up to 3,200m at its highest peak (Jebel Attar) \u2013 presenting picture-perfect slopes for skiers of all levels, which are flanked by the colossal mountains and kissed by African sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In the port city of Casablanca (on Morocco\u2019s east coast), you can find the only dedicated Jewish museum in the Arab world. It celebrates Judaeo-Muslim culture and the mutual influences between the two religions. For example, Morocco\u2019s traditional textile patterns inspired the design of the clothing worn by Jewish women. And it commemorates Jewish history in Morocco (the first Jews settled here in 2nd<\/sup> century BC).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, it makes sense that Morocco\u2019s 1930-kilometre coastline is peppered with some of the world\u2019s best beaches. Washed by refreshing waters, these spotless white sands offer the perfect cool-off from the bustling city centres. Our recommendation is the idyllic resort town of Essaouira \u2013 where surfing, sun-bathing or meandering the charming town medina is a great way to spend an afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n GET INSPIRED BY: Morocco: A full destination guide (and tours)<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Marakkesh\u2019s Jemaa el-Fna is bucket-list worthy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Morocco is one of the world\u2019s most diverse countries<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. From mosques to riads, there\u2019s amazing architecture everywhere<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n6. The Medina in Fes is car-free<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
7. You can stand in the Sahara desert<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n8. The souks will steal your heart<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n9. Moroccan food is diverse and delicious<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n10. You can find the highest ski resort in Africa (Oukaimeden) here<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. Casablanca has the only Jewish museum in the Arab world<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. <\/strong>Morocco is blessed with beautiful beaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n13. You might never receive better hospitality<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n