Malta - Morocco is a country that suits every type of traveller. There’s plenty to explore, learn and taste in this magical destination, whatever your interests.
Here are some of the reasons why you should put Morocco on your bucket list.
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The High Atlas Mountains. Photo by author[/caption]
- Stunning Landscapes
Morocco’s diverse landscapes are a paradise for trekkers and photographers alike. The High Atlas Mountains offer astounding views of Berber villages nestled among deep-red hills and lush green valleys. For the adventurous at heart, there’s Mount Toubkal, the highest point of the High Atlas Mountains at 4167m above sea level. However, you don’t need to be in tip-top shape to explore Morocco’s mountain terrain. Day trips to the Ourika Valley and the nearby Berber villages require less physical exertion and are equally breathtaking.
As you travel towards the desert region, the cultivated hills of the Atlas Mountains give way to rugged arid hills dotted with ruins of ancient kasbahs. From here you can travel along the old trading routes to get to the Saharan dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga. Interesting sites along the way include Ait Benhaddou, the Todra Gorges, the Draa Valley and the Valley of Roses.
For the ultimate desert experience, join a camel trek at sunset and spend the night in a Bedouin tent. There’s nothing more inspiring than waking up to the sight of the sun’s first rays hitting the sea of dunes.
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The Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. Photo by Author[/caption]
- Magnificent Cities
The imperial cities of Fez, Meknes, Marrakech and Rabat are steeped in a wealth of history. Home to lavish palaces, vibrant souks and exceptional Islamic architecture, these cities will appeal to anyone with a keen interest in Moorish art and history.
Each of these majestic cities has its own charm. Get lost in Marrakech’s maze of bustling souks, visit the old tanneries of Fez, and explore the ancient medina of Meknes.
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The Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech. Photo by author[/caption]
- Rich Cultural Heritage
From the storytellers of Djema el Fnaa to the Berber drum circles in the Sahara, customs and traditions are still very much alive in both urban and rural Morocco. The strong presence of these traditions is mostly what makes Morocco such an intriguing destination.
Top cultural experiences in Morocco include spending a few days with a Berber family and visiting rural markets, where you get to explore the Amazigh culture through cooking, farming and music.
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Moroccan Tagine. Photo by Morocco World News[/caption]
- Unmatched Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is highly sought-after the world over, and rightly so. Most Moroccan delicacies are infused with a variety of spices, making dishes like the tajine and the harira remarkably flavoursome. Food is the heart of Moroccan culture, and meals are always bountiful.
For a genuine taste of Moroccan cuisine, have lunch in a Berber village, where traditional dishes are prepared with dedication. If you’re feeling adventurous, spend a night trying out different delicacies at the food market in Marrakech. Meanwhile, culinary tours give you the opportunity to learn the secret of preparing Moroccan dishes.
- Genuine Hospitality
Moroccans are known for being a warm and welcoming people, and almost anyone who’s been to Morocco can attest to this. In fact, hospitality is an important principle in traditional Islamic teachings.
Some shopkeepers will ask you to sit down for a conversation over a pot of tea. Others might even invite you to their home for lunch. In Berber households, guests are provided with an abundance of food and treated as family.
Moroccan hospitality will leave an indelible mark on you. This alone makes Morocco a country worth visiting.
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Sahara at Sunrise. Photo by author[/caption]
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Moroccan Fish Delights. Photo by Morocco World News[/caption]
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