Casablanca lies on the Atlantic coast, in central-western Morocco. Fondly known by locals simply as ‘Casa', the capital is the industrial, economic and cultural heart of this remarkable country, as well as its most cosmopolitan, liberal, and progressive city. While most visitors overlook Casablanca in favour of Morocco’s more popular and exotic tourist areas, this sprawling metropolis has plenty to offer the discerning traveller and has many hidden historical and cultural gems just waiting to be discovered. The city is famous for its spectacular Art Deco and Moorish Revival architecture, constructed during the Colonial Period. Explore the Old Medina, a tiny, ancient, walled village; visit the impressive King Hassan II Mosque; discover the ornate rooms, masterfully tiled floors, and intricately carved wooden ceilings of the Hispanic-Moorish Mahkama du Pacha; or simply watch the world go by at one of the many ocean-view cafes along the waterfront boulevard.
Situated in the heart of Morocco, within a beautiful landscape of rich cedar forests, the Middle Atlas mountains, and the rich oasis of Tafilalt. The impressive imperial city boasts a unique blend of Islamic and European architectural styles, and serves as an important economic hub within the Meknes Prefecture. It is the quieter neighbour of Fez with more of a laid-back-faded-grandeur feel. The city is surrounded by monumental walls and features ancient ornate gates, palatial buildings, and winding narrow medina streets. Visitors can look forward to exploring the remnants of the Imperial city including the spectacular Bab el- Mansour, a large gate adorned with beautiful zellij mosaic tiling which crowns the entrance of the former Imperial city; the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail, exhibiting magnificent courtyards and fountains; and the ruins of Heri es-Souani, a vast structure once used for stables and storage. Don’t miss the ancient marketplace and square of Pl el-Hedim.
Morocco’s second-largest city and the country’s former capital, Fes (Fez) is an exotic mix of Arabic architecture, ancient alleyways calls to prayer and colourful markets; all mixed in with a good dose of modern culture. Home to the venerated Karaouine Mosque, which dates back to 859 AD and incorporates an Islamic university, and to the country’s most hallowed shrine, the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II; Fes is regarded as the spiritual seat of Morocco. Music lovers should try to synchronise their trips with the annual Festival of Sacred Music, one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar showcasing diverse performances of spiritual and religious music; while those with a penchant for shopping can browse the mesmerizing colourful markets selling an exquisite array of silver, leather and other handicrafts up for grabs.
Ouzoud is a village surrounding a famous landmark, the Ouzoud Falls, located near Tanaghmeilt in Morocco’s province of Azilal, and is a popular day-trip destination from Marrakesh. The captivating waterfalls are the main attraction in the region; an astonishing sight of massive cascades (the largest at 100 metres) tumbling into bright turquoise pools, surrounded by verdant jungle. Guides will escort you along the one-hour hike down the beautiful gorge to the falls, a trail providing superb photographic opportunities. Once at the water, you can enjoy a (wet) boat trip and swim. Lush valleys encompass the area, providing further opportunities for exploration. The village is home to several excellent shops, restaurants, and services, and is known for its historic mills.
In the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, overlooking stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and rocky terrain, sits the picturesque Imlil village surrounded by the majestic beauty of Toubkal National Park, home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, including the Barbary macaque and the Atlas cedar tree. One of the main attractions of Imlil is Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, which can be climbed in a two-day trek. Visitors can also explore the local Berber villages, which offer a glimpse into the ancient culture and way of life of the indigenous people of the region. Other activities in Imlil include hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, as well as relaxing at one of the many local hammams. Overall, Imlil is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural splendour and rich culture of the High Atlas Mountains.
Favourably situated on a vast sweeping bay on the southwest coast of Morocco, featuring long stretches of glorious, golden-sand beaches, the historical town of Essaouira is one of the country’s premier tourist attractions. The town is set against a picturesque backdrop of lush, wooded hills and a patchwork of small fields, spread with a kaleidoscope of colourful wildflowers in springtime. Known for its bustling fishing harbour, quaint white and blue houses, and its lovely, souk-filled medina, there is plenty to keep you blissfully engaged in this popular seaside town. The strong Atlantic wind provides perfect conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Despite its popularity, the town has managed to retain its old-world charm and is an ideal place to embrace the laid-back lifestyle of the locals and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Situated to the north of the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and fringing the famed Sahara, the bustling UNESCO-listed city of Marrakesh is an enchanting travel destination. Marrakesh is also home to the largest traditional Berber market in Morocco and one of the busiest squares in the world, known as Djemaa el Fna. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this square in the evening as it transforms into an enormous, open-air restaurant, and browse through exquisite carpets, spices and a myriad of other items. Art, design and architecture enthusiasts flock to the city to see its incredible artisan achievements, so beautifully expressed at the glorious Bahia Palace, Dar Si Said and Saadian Tombs, as well as at several museums. The other-worldly Jardin Majorelle is also unmissable.
