Morocco, land of mystery and romance, offers a profusion of historical, cultural and scenic splendours. Wander the narrow laneways of imperial Fes and Marrakech with their lavish palaces, ancient mosques and colourful souks. In the Atlas mountains the ruins of hilltop kasbahs (fortresses) rise above rocky gorges, whilst the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert are home to hardy Berber nomads. Moroccan summers can be very hot and winters very cold inland. The best time to visit is spring (mid-March to May) when the country is lush and green, or autumn (Sep to Nov) when the summer heat has eased. During Ramadan most shops and restaurants are closed during the day.
Highlights of Morocco include:
• Old city of historic Fes with its souks and tanneries
• Atlas Mountains
• Mosques and Medinas of Marrakech
• Camel riding across the dunes of Erg Chebbi
• Dramatic scenery of Dades Gorge and Todra
Culture
Moroccan culture is a colourful, exciting and worldly experience. The people are dynamic and friendly with hospitality an ingrained part of their culture. Apart from the mosques, most public monuments are open to the general public. For those who like to shop, Souks are a way of life in Morocco and you usually wont have to go far to find one.
Climate
Morocco's climate is generally moderate and subtropical, cooled by sea breezes. In the interior the temperatures are more extreme, with cold winters and very hot summers. Marrakech has an average winter temperature of 21°C and summer temperature of 38°C. Most travellers find the early summer months to be the most comfortable time to visit, as the northern rains are not a threat and temperatures are warm during the day and pleasantly cool at night.
