Design my Journey
Design my Journey

Author: DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

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Moroccan Tourism

The Moroccan Hammams: The History, The Price and Best Spots

Hammams in Morocco

Discover the Hammams in Morocco: the history, the culture, the benefits and how you can enjoy your day in the Hammam

Among the endless details of Moroccan culture, there is one aspect of social life that comes highly recommended to travelers in Morocco : the hammam, heated constantly by a furnace of wood shaving, or a natural hot source of water, it’s the Moroccan equivalent to a sauna.

The history of Hammam in Morocco

Since religion is the center of Moroccan culture, the first hammams were established near mosques and  praying centers to facilitate the purification of body and soul before prayers rituals, soon the hammams baths became almost a traditional, weekly mandatory ritual among Moroccans,

Growing in popularity amongst the community, the hammam became a gathering point where people of all social classes would meet and discuss anything.

Only separated by gender, you could call it the naked truth since the purifying session is done entirely naked and allows men and women to really be themselves.

Hammams in Morocco

The ritual of the Moroccan Hammam

Today’s hammams in Morocco are a mixture of traditional rituals and modern practices that have the same goal, purifying your body from dead skin and your soul from negative vibes, from the experience of local hammams with its unmarked doorways and progressively heated rooms, to the luxury riads and their magnificent hammams, all is set to a peaceful journey of well being paradise.

Hammams are usually two buildings that separate the women’s side from the men’s, and there are various types of Hammams, there are the local traditional ones, located in small towns and popular neighborhoods, and there are more luxurious, spa like hammams often located in hotels, and there are also professional ones that maintains  the traditional bathing ritual of a Moroccan hammam.

The entry to a traditional local hammam costs around 12 to 30 MAD ( 1 – 3 DOLLARS ), spa hammams can be more expensive.

Traditional Moroccan Hammam

The ritual in hammam starts by choosing the hot room for about 15 to 20 minutes to relax and allow the pores to open, then start by applying a thin layer of black soap all over your body then, after resting for about 5 to 10 minutes it’s followed by rinsing with lots of water. 

If you are in a spa Hammam, the personnel will be responsible for taking care of the entire hammam process such as the application of products, exfoliation and rinsing.

The personnel will scrape all your dead skin from your body with a kessa glove, you will be amazed by the resulting dead skin left on the tile after the treatment.

After the exfoliation process and the rinse, you will wash your hair with your usual shampoo, right after there is a purifying ghassoul mask that will absorb all impurities from your skin while mineralizing the epiderm with essential mineral elements, the clay mask will be applied all over your body, face and hair for deep cleansing and wash and then you will apply your shower gel and then deeply rinse it.

In the most luxurious hammam they will end the session by massaging and dehydrating your skin with pure Argan oil rich with vitamin E, 

After all these treatments, a nourishing massage will nourish your skin and the little extra that remains is the mint tea offered to finish your moment of incomparable tranquility.

A real luxury treatment that will revive your skin letting it breath, and giving it the fresh look that we always seek.

Benefits of the Moroccan Hammam 

  • Physical and emotional detox : Reduce stress, anxiety and allow deep relaxation. 
  • Beautifying the body and face : Take away dead skin from your body, unclog pores while eliminating toxins from the skin and
  • Fight acne : Regulate skin oil secretions to prevent acne and help heal scars and reduce redness.
  • Skin nourishing and dehydration : Provides essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Anti-aging : Allow your inner organs to breathe. Helps toning, firming the skin while improving elasticity.
  • Decrease muscle tension : It sooth muscle pain and rheumatism.
  • Better sleep : Helps rejuvenate your body while sleeping.
  • Boost the immune system : Activate the blood circulation.
  • Body and mind connection : Have more energy and feel more balance.
  • Feel beautiful : Feeling fresh and revitalized.

The most popular hammams in Morocco

#1 : Moulay Yacoub:

For centuries, Moulay Yacoub has been renowned for the richness of its natural hot springs. The spa town takes its name from Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur, the 3rd caliph of the Almohad Caliphate, whose legend claims that he was cured after having his first bath.

The baths use water pumped from 1500 m below ground and reach a temperature of 54 °C. Rich with sulfur which adds a therapeutic  value to the water and can cure many skin diseases.

#2 : Ain Allah:

The source of Ain Allah is located 14 kilometres from the city of Fez. The water from this spring is very hot, with a temperature of 30 ° C. The source of Ain Allah is extracted by an artesian borehole at a depth of 1650 meters. Water from this source has no therapeutic indication.

#3 : Mosque Hassan II hammams:

Rooted in the Arab-Muslim tradition, THE HAMMAMS OF THE HASSAN II MOSQUE in Casablanca are made up of Hammams for women and for men that occupy an area of ​​3000 m² each, which represents 6000 m² in total.

A unique site of its kind, each of the two hammams has traditional Moorish baths and health baths in hot sea water and a herbal tea room.

Hassan 2 Mosque Hammams

#4 : Neighborhood Hammam

In every city, whether big or small, and even in villages, there’s a hammam to relax, wash your body, take care of your skin, and disconnect from life’s stress and matters.

To summarize, the Moroccan Hammams are indeed a must in your to do list when you visit the country, the experience dives you centuries back through the rich and diverse kingdom history, and benefits your body and your soul all the way.

Also, there are natural hot springs and baths in Morocco to enjoy.

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Moroccan Tourism

Ryanair Winter Program: New Routes to and from Morocco

Ryanair - New Routes to and from Morocco

For those who missed out on a summer getaway, Ryanair has also revealed its winter program, linking Moroccan airports with a number of European destinations.

Committed to increasing its connections in Morocco, Ryanair’s Winter program 2021 comes with 10 new air routes to and from Morocco.

Ryanair’s Morocco Winter 2021 schedule is expected to operate over 300 weekly flights to over 120 destinations, including a wide range of new routes to different European hotspots.

Source: Ryanair’s Corporate Website

Ryanair’s winter program is also scheduled to operate flights linking Marrakech with several European cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Zaragoza, and Valencia.

Fez will also be hosting Ryanair flights to European destinations such as Spain’s Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Malaga, Valencia, and France’s Marseille, Nimes, and Toulouse.

The airline also announced that flights to Ibiza, Bergamo, Rome, and Toulouse among others will be available.

Ryanair to Open its Third Moroccan Operations Base in  Agadir :

As part of its strategy to strengthen its presence in Morocco, the European leading airline, Ryanair,  established a new base of operations in the coastal city of Agadir last July. 

This new base, the airline revealed, will connect Agadir to a variety of  European destinations starting from November. 

With this new base in place, Ryanair is expected to also operate the following flights as part of its  winter program 2021:

  • Two new flights per week between  Agadir-Al Massira and Bologna-Guglielmo Marco airport.
  • Direct flights to Germany’s Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe and the Austrian capital, Vienna.
  • Six new routes to Spain: Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Seville, and Tenerife South.
  • Five new routes to Bordeaux, Marseille, Nantes, Paris Beauvais, and Toulouse.

Ryanair Announced the Launch of 3 New Routes Linking Morocco and Spain :

In a statement published on September 9th, the company stated that the flights will connect Barcelona El Prat airport with three Moroccan destinations: Agadir, Oujda, and Rabat.


Starting from November, flights to serve these destinations will be scheduled twice a week, Ryanair specified.

Interested in Booking a Flight in Ryanair’s Winter Program 2021? Here is What You Need to Know…

Flight’s prices start from $14.

You can book your flights starting from September to October from the airline’s Website.

You can modify and extend your travel time with a “zero” change fee as long as they do it seven days before the flight.

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Moroccan Tourism

Richard Branson visits Morocco and plans to invest in Dakhla

Richard Branson in Morocco

Billionaire Richard Branson to Invest in Moroccan Tourism

With properties and investments around the world, from the British Necker Island to South African Ulusaba Reserve, entrepreneur and Virgin Group founder Richard Branson still makes sure to visit Morocco at least twice a year.

In his latest visit to Morocco, Sir Branson was delighted to stay at his magical Virgin Limited Edition retreat, Kasbah Tamadot,  up in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

The story of this Award-winning retreat began when Sir Branson visited Morocco in 1998 while he was preparing for a ballooning expedition. 

It was then that Brandon’s parents discovered Kasbah Tamadot and convinced him to buy it from Luciano Tempo, an Italian antique dealer and interior designer.

Since then Sir Branson has transformed Kasbah Tamadot and its surroundings into a lavish retreat and the No.1 resort hotel in North Africa and the Middle East in the Travel+ Leisure World’s Best Awards 2021.

Interested in visiting Kasbah Tamadot? Here is everything you need to know…

Situated in the spectacular High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, Kasbah Tamadot is only an hour’s drive south of Marrakech near the village of Asni.

This magical retreat has 28 rooms. Each room is distinctly decorated to reflect the architecture of the building in Moroccan/ Berber style, beautifully featuring antiques from all over the world.

Besides the exotically styled rooms and salons inside the building, there are so many more opportunities for having luxurious fun.

The Kasbah offers a four-room spa with a hammam and Watsu pools, multiple Jacuzzis, two tennis courts, a billboard room, a fully equipped gym, and a library and kids’ club.

The landscape surrounding Kasbah Tamadot also boasts a spectacular garden, an infinity pool, and an outdoor cinema.

Other fun activities you can do at Kasbah Tamadot include:

Getting cooking lessons: get hands-on interactive cooking sessions with a chef who will walk you step-by-step through how to make some of our more popular dishes.

Mule Riding: get the chance to discover the High Atlas Mountains and trek to the local village in a traditional way by riding the local’s mules.

Trekking and cycling: If you like to stay active at all times, trekking or cycling the mountains surrounding Kasbah might be perfect for you. Check out Branson’s latest video exploring the “winding paths and steep inclines made for some challenging bike rides in the most stunning of settings”

Day excursions by car:  On your way back to Marrakech but want to see more of the country on the way? You can book a car to take you through some of the most spectacular routes and experience the most beautiful of views. 

Volunteer at:

Eve Branson Foundation (EBF): From a knitting group initiated by Eve Branson in a local village to a successful charity, you have the opportunity to volunteer at the EBF to empower the local community near Kasbah Tamadot to be able to make a living, while still preserving their rich Berber heritage. Here you can also buy all sorts of local crafts and Artisanal Products to take back home. 

Pack for Purpose: In partnership with kasbah Tamadot, this charity allows you to support local projects by making meaningful donations to make a priceless impact on the lives of the local children and families.

Visit the EcoMuseum:

Just a 5-minute walk from Kasbah Tamadot, on the edge of the Toubkal National Park. You can gain an insight into the surrounding area’s natural and cultural resources. 

How much should you expect to pay to book a stay at Kasbah Tamadot? 

Double rooms go for £488 in low seasons and go up to £580 in high seasons. Berber tents start from £870. 

Richard Branson Plans to Invest in Dakhla’s Tourism Industry. 

In his latest visit to Morocco, Sir Branson has left with a newfound interest in southern Morocco and potential investment plans in the Western Sahara coast, particularly in the hotel and kitesurfing sectors. 

After this visit to Dakhla, a city known for its tourist assets,  Dakhla Spot Online reported that Sir Branson has confirmed his plans to invest in the region saying: 

“I am captivated by Dakhla and its region and I will come back to kitesurf and certainly invest.”

Accompanied by his family and friends, Sir Branson visited various sites in the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region.

The billionaire made his stay at Ocean Vagabond Hotel before downwinding to kitesurf in the  White Dune for an hour and a half. He capped the day off in Dakhla by joining his family and guests for dinner at  Dakhla Attitude Hotel.

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Desert & Sahara Moroccan Tourism

Visit Merzouga: The Hidden Pearl of Moroccan Desert

Visit Merzouga the sahara desert of Morocco

Tourism Guide : Visit Merzouga

Almost everyone can be sure that the twelve centuries kingdom’s rich and diverse culture, have Inferred from its different natural habitats through the ages, which places the country in the very short list of unique places all over the world; from the green north painted mostly in blue, to the rocky mountains that makes great adventure stories, to its vast plains offering you the Atlantic horizons, and eventually the life vibrant Moroccan desert, famous for its best sands and warm climate in places like Merzouga, the biggest natural spa offered by our beloved mother nature.

The road trip: where it all begins

Merzouga is indeed the summit of all desert attractions we count on our rainy work days, to fulfill our very needed and deserved rest.

The southeastern wonderland of sand is 550 km away from Marrakech, reached by a 9 hours drive that simply makes you travel in your soul, passing by master key places like the city of Ouarzazate and her famous castles like the Kasbah Ait BenHadou , kelâat megouna with its breath taking fields of flowers and almond trees, the fascinating Dades Gorges with its colored walls range anywhere from 200 to 500 meters (650 to 1600 feet).

From then to now: the story of Merzouga

In the past the small village of Merzouga, like a number of regions and cities, was uninhabited and later became a transit point for merchants heading for Timbuktu. It later became a pilgrimage to the nomads of the Ait Atta tribes, until it will be known as a tourist destination to the current days. Safe as the majority of regions in Morocco, you can be sure that locals in Merzouga are generous, and full of hospitality and serenity.

Moroccans are deeply connected with the region; they have a traditional belief that Merzouga’s sands have medical virtue thanks to its warmness, and can cure different diseases like osteoarthritis.

Each year people from all over the country willing to take sand hammam hoping to feel better.

When you can visit Merzouga ?

Merzouga temperature
Merzouga temperature

With an average temperature of 89 F° (32° C), and 275 clear, sunny days every year, it is guaranteed that you won’t be craving for vitamin D even in December; which makes Merzouga a destination visited all year long and in every season.

What to see in Merzouga ?

Visit Merzouga

Once you have reached Merzouga you can be sure that you have made one of your best holiday choices, the place is an oasis that overflows of activities.

Merzouga has the best luxury desert camps in Morocco, placing you in the heart of the local’s culture in a beautiful setting that provides real comfort and luxury stays.
You won’t forget those romantic clear night skies enlightened with thousands of stars that we all have fancies at least once, and of course delicious Moroccan food that melt our mouths with delicious spices, served in the most original pots and tagines.

And of course you wouldn’t miss for anything the camel trekking through the Sahara desert to Erg Chebbi dunes that will make you redefine and contemplate sunrises and sunsets.

The lake of Merzouga is also known as Lake Dayet Srij, is the proof that Merzouga’s desert is full of life, the site is a spot for birds like flamingos and other Migratory birds, you can find a lot of biking and 4X4 tour companies that organize hikes to reach the site.

And if the artistic touch of nature didn’t suffice you, the laoun art gallery feeds your greed, with an exhibition of Berber painting and traditional music instruments that you can contemplate sipping a good cup of coffee in the middle of nowhere.

To resume Merzouga is a one time in life trip that will stay with you a long time after you leave the place, it’s the perfect place for those who are seeking meditation and refueling their energy, but also those who crave experiencing challenges and adventures, a rare combination that makes us love our Merzouga.

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Moroccan Tourism

12 Best Foods To Eat in Morocco

Best Foods To Eat in Morocco
The best foods to eat in Morocco. 

The Top 12 Foods You Must Try in Morocco

Marked by its vibrant colors, rich seasonings, and unusual flavor combinations of sweet and savory, Moroccan cuisine is amongst the best in the world. No visit to Morocco is complete without experiencing Moroccan food.  

Morocco’s culinary palette is remarkably influenced by multiple cultures, from Amazigh, Andalusian, Mediterranean, sub-Saharan to  European (French and Spanish) cuisines.

Wondering what to eat when visiting Morocco? This article will take you on a gastronomic journey to explore some of the best foods to eat in Morocco. 

Couscous

Couscous is the national dish of Morocco and is usually served on Fridays or special occasions. One of the most popular versions of this dish is “couscous with seven vegetables.”

To make couscous, semolina grains are steamed over vegetable or meat stew. The couscous grains are then topped with chicken, beef or lamb and a variety of vegetables in a magnificent heap. 

Like many other Moroccan dishes, couscous is served in a big communal dish that Moroccan families gather around.

Tagine

Taking its name from the traditional clay or ceramic pot that it is cooked in, Tagine is a famous slow-cooked stew dish. 

Various vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, zucchini, onions, olives, dried prunes are layered on top of any meat of choice in a conical fashion to cook. 

The result is an aromatic pot of delicious tender meat, vegetables, and sauce. Tagines are typically eaten from the cooking pot using bread. 

Chicken With Preserved Lemons and Olives 

This is another classic and popular dish in Morocco served both on special occasions and during casual dinners. 

Prepared in a traditional tagine, this dish consists of a delicious daghmira (onion sauce) topped with roasted chicken and garnished with preserved lemons and olives.

Lamb/ Beef with Prunes

No list of the best foods to eat in Morocco is complete without this classic Moroccan dish.

Sure, prunes might not sound like the most appetizing, but you will be surprised by how well the sweet and savory flavors in this dish go together. 

The meat in this dish is cooked with saffron, ginger, and onions until tender and is then garnished with honey-glazed prunes and fried crunchy almonds.

Harira

Moroccan Harira is traditionally a Ramadan special but it is also enjoyed by Moroccans throughout the year as a starter dish. 

This tomato-based soup comes in countless variations, but the classic version is typically prepared with lentils, chickpeas, and chaariya (broken noodles), and lamb or beef stock.  

You can find this nutritious dish served in a traditional Moroccan bowl in every corner of Morocco.

Bastilla

One of the best foods to eat in Morocco if you are a fan of the sweet and salty flavor combination is Moroccan Bastilla 

This Moroccan delicacy is traditionally a savory pigeon pie served at weddings and celebrations. 
Today you can also find Bastilla made with chicken or seafood.

The meat is cooked with a variety of spices such as pepper, ginger, saffron, cinnamon and then wrapped up in warqa (a crispy pastry).

The Bastilla is then garnished with sugar icing, fried almonds scented with orange flower water to produce a fragrant pie of pure deliciousness.

Babouche (Snail Soup)

Babouche is a very famous street food in Morocco. You can find snail soup vendors all over Morocco, but this dish is mostly well-known in Jemaa El Fna in Marrakech. 

What makes this soup special is not just the snails but the varied spices that go into its making including ginger, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, chili pepper, anise, sage, cumin..etc. 

This hot and spicy Moroccan dish is typically served in a bowl and consumed using toothpicks to scoop up the snail from its shell. Moroccans also believe that Babouche is effective against fever and helps with digestion.

Zaalouk and Taktouka

Made with roasted eggplants, tomato, olive oil, garlic, and spices, Zaalouk is a delicious savory dip. Taktouka is another dip made with chopped sweet tomatoes and roasted bell peppers. 

Both these flavorful dishes are often served as an entree with traditional Moroccan bread or as a side dish with tagine or other Moroccan meals. 

Briouat

Briouat rolls are deep-fried pastries found in both triangle and cylindrical shapes. These bite-sized snacks are made in both sweet and savory variations. 

Sweet Briouat are typically made with almond and honey and served as a dessert with Atay (mint tea). 

The savory version of Briouat is made with either beef, chicken, seafood, or cheese fillings and served as appetizers.

Medfouna

Known as the “Berber stuffed Pizza,” Medfouna (Arabic for buried) takes its name from the way this dish is cooked; buried and backed in the sand of the Sahara. 

Medfouna is a traditional Saharawis specialty made with meat, vegetables, and herbs, and spices stuffed in the dough.

Bissara

Bissara soup is a popular Moroccan dish especially in the blue city of Chefchaouen.

Made with dried fava beans, garlic, spices and topped with a drizzle of olive oil and cumin, this healthy soup is a winter breakfast favorite for many Moroccans. 

Stuffed Msemen

Msemen is a famous street food in Morocco that you can find in most food stalls in the country. 

Stuffed with onions, bell peppers, and lamb or beef fat,  this square-shaped Moroccan flatbread is a treat for savory snack lovers.

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Moroccan Tourism

24 Best Things You Can Do in Rabat (2024 Guide)

Best things to do in Rabat : beaches, restaurants, museum

Morocco’s capital city of Rabat is more than just the administrative center of the country. 

Rabat elegantly features a contemporary city that preserved its antiquity, embodying a distinctive architectural and decorative style.

With a privileged location by the Atlantic ocean, Rabat enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year.
What are the best things you can do in Rabat? Plenty!


In this article, you will find some of the best suggestions to inspire your next visit to Rabat.

1- Cultural Attractions in Rabat :

With twenty centuries of history to tell, Rabat is rightly recognized by UNESCO as a modern capital, historic city,  and a world heritage site.

Rabat reflects a unique cultural heritage; a product of the fusion between past Arabo-Muslim and  Modern Western legacies.

Several historical sites and ancient monuments enrich the architectural landscape of the capital, Rabat. If you want to experience the best out of the city’s cultural side, here is a list of the best places to visit in Rabat.

 Hassan Tower :

Hassan tower has to be the monument that Rabat is most known for. This master attraction was originally intended to be the biggest minaret in the world.

Built in an intricate Moroccan and Spanish-style architecture, the 44 meter Hassan tower bears history that goes back to the reign of  Yaqub al-Mansur in the 12th century. 

Overlooking the Bouregreg river and surrounded by its long-standing columns in the front square, The red sandstone Hassan Tower offers a charming view.  Opposite the tower lies the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. This white building with its captivating gold-leaf ceiling and carvings is open to even non-muslims.

Hassan Tower, Rabat Morocco
Hassan Tower

 Kasbah of the Oudayas :

Occupying the oldest part of Rabat, the Kasbah of the Oudayas is a 12th-century real fortress that later became a refuge of Andalusian Muslims fleeing Spain. 

Entering through the grand  Andalusian-style gate, Bab Oudaya welcomes visitors to view a mix of Morocco’s cultural heritage and history.

Morocco has only one blue city. Says who?  Rabat’s Oudayas streets have just as much glamour as  Chefchaouen only with fewer crowds. 

Bab Oudaya gives way to what is now a predominantly residential area with distinctive Andalusian-style alleyways beautifully painted in white and blue, iron windows, and uniquely designed doors. 

The place is a peaceful and tranquil site and is the perfect place for a relaxing aimless stroll.

A tour in Kasbah of the Oudayas is incomplete without having a cup of mint tea at the touristic Cafe Maure (Moorish cafe). Not only does this cafe reflect the history of the city and the Andalusian-style of the Oudayas but it also offers a delightful ocean view.

Chellah Necropolis :

Two kilometers from the city center lies the ruins of Chellah, a marvelous mix of Roman and Merinid empires dating back to the 14th century.

This ancient archeological site is an atmospheric space where key Roman architectural remnants such as a forum, temple, principal roadway, and a triumphal arch stand out. A mirinaid-built minaret also overlooks the red sandstone walls of Chellah.

East of the site, you will find tombs of several saints as well as the  Bassin aux Anguilles, an Eel basin filled with coins, fish, and turtles. 

If you head south, you can find the tomb of Sultan Abu Al Hasan and his wife under which you can find a shady paved road with trees and flowers. 

Over the years, the Chellah site has also become a host to several of the city’s festivals, including Jazz au Chellah and Mawazine.

Mohammed VI Museum of Contemporary Arts :

For anyone with an interest in modern art, visiting the Mohammed VI Museum is one of the best things you can do in Rabat. 

This museum is the first Moroccan public institution to meet international museographical standards. 

The entire museum is also the first to be dedicated to the modern artistic movement in Morocco. 

This makes it a perfect place to gain insight into contemporary Moroccan art in contrast with traditional Moroccan art that you can see about anywhere else in the nation.

2- Leisure Activities in Rabat :

So, you’ve had some relaxing time exploring the tranquil cultural attractions of Rabat and now you are wondering where are all the best places in Rabat to have fun activities? 

Rabat offers its visitors a wide range of activities depending on your interest.

Royal Golf Dar Es Salam :

Ranked among the 100 best golf courses in the world, Dar EsSalam is a prestigious golf course located just 15 minutes from the center of Rabat.

This golf course is built in the heart of a  cork oak forest, covering over 440 hectares of fairways, palm trees, Roman columns, and narcissus flowers. This place is simply a real-life marvel to golf amateurs.

Horseback Riding Activities :

Rabat also offers a wide range of opportunities to have fun for horse-riding enthusiasts. You can find numerous equestrian clubs that offer rides, polo matches, obstacle courses, and more. 

Some places you can check out are Poney Club de Rabat, Royal Polo Equestrian Club Dar EsSalaam,  and Royal Club Equestre du Lac.

Beaches and Water Activities in Rabat :

Bordered by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat can offer a memorable seaside experience to its visitors.

Whether you want to play your favorite water sports, go for a swim, or have a lazy day at the beach, Rabat’s beaches will meet all your seaside expectations.

Rabat beach
View to the ocean from the walls of medina
  • Oudaias Beach 

Oudaias is quite a spacious and populated beach. This beach gets the strongest Atlantic waves making it home to one of the largest Nautical beach clubs in Morocco, Rabat Beach Nautical Club.

This club offers an all-year-round range of courses and activities including sailing, kayaking, surfing, bodyboarding, rowing, paddle, and more.

  • Yacht Club of Rabat

At this club, you can do a myriad of activities at the  Bouregreg estuary.

You can enjoy sailing a catamaran canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddling, renting a cruise, or nautical coaching on a boat for a reasonable price. 

If you need an escape from the hustle of the city and touristic crowds, there are plenty of beaches just outside the city if you are willing to travel a few miles. 

  • Tamara Beach 

Tamara beach is a wild and safe swimming beach located just 16 km south of Rabat. 

 People visiting this beach have quite the accommodation options and facilities.

The beach itself is easily accessible through any mode of transportation from Rabat. 

  • Skhirat Beach

located 25 km south of Rabat, Skhirat is a spacious beach with an idyllic atmosphere and is considered one of the most well-preserved and cleanest beaches in the area. 

Skhirat is the perfect place for a quiet family vacation, swimming and enjoying freshly caught fish.

3- Restaurants  And Gastronomy in Rabat :

Dar El Medina :

Located in Souk Es Sabbate, this is a well-reviewed restaurant you can stop by after a stroll in the medina. For reasonable prices, this place offers an authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine.

Dinarjat :

Ranked as one of the best Moroccan restaurants, Dinarjat offers its visitors an exclusive experience in a magnificent Arab-Andalusian-style residence in the heart of the medina.

Not only does this place offer a variety of authentic Moroccan flavors but also a sublime atmosphere where you can dine between columns, mosaic tiles, candles, and gentle melodies. 

Le Dhow :

If you’re looking for a place to have a romantic dining experience or grab a few drinks in a relaxed atmosphere, Le Dhow is a perfect destination. 

Anchored at the foot of the Kasbah of the Oudayas, this place offers its visitors a distinctive boat /lounge bar experience. 

The place features unique decor and a vintage esthetic and a wide array of food and drink options. 

Golden Fish :

Golden Fish is a quality restaurant serving fresh French-style seafood with relaxing views of the pool and vibrant green gardens of the Sofitel Jardin des Roses of Rabat. 

Café Terminus :

Located on the rooftop of the ONOMO Hotel Rabat, Café Terminus is famous for giving its visitors the best view of the entire city. There you can experience the nightlife of Rabat in a new light.

4- Shopping in Rabat :

Rabat is certainly a modern city that preserves its traditions. This is something that is clearly reflected in its retail diversity. That is why shopping is one of the best things to do in Rabat. 

Shopping in Rabat offers you diverse shopping options that range from rich local crafts to modern shopping centers, malls, boutiques, national, as well as international retail brands. 

The Medina :

The medina of Rabat makes a  fantastic shopping spot in the city center. It is relatively less crowded than other medinas around Morocco. Hence, you get all the handicrafts as those in the more well-known souks of Marrakech and Fez with less hassle. 

In a bazaar-like fashion, the medina of Rabat is home to a patchwork of Moroccan craft shops displaying embroidered fabrics, clothes, jewelry,  leather footwear and bags, traditional Moroccan/Berber carpets, and copperware. 

Must-sees in Rabat’s medina are Souika street, Consuls Street, and Souk Es Sabbate.

Wlja Pottery Complex :

Just a few kilometers from the medina, potters, artists, basket makers and coppersmiths gather in the Wlja complex located in Sale.

There you can appreciate the colorful set of art displayed and shop for anything from vases, tagines, souvenirs, baskets to everyday items. 

Alchimies :

Located in Hassan district, this is a famous gift shop known for its high quality and unique crafts. This is a perfect place to buy and choose from a variety of souvenirs.

Modern Shopping in Rabat :

For a more modern shopping experience in Rabat, it is best that you either head to Avenue Mohammed V or Agdal quarter.

There you can find a wide array of shops, branded luxury boutiques, malls, as well as trendy cafes, restaurants, and pubs.  Rabat offers a wide range of ultra-modern malls including Arribat Centre, Mega Mall, Ryad square, Mall Ait Baha…etc.

5- Nature in Rabat :

Gardens of Oudayas , Rabat Morocco
Gardens of Oudayas

 The Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel :

Located on the national road of Kenitra some 20 Km north of Rabat, The Exotic gardens of Bouknadel are one of the most beautiful gardens in Morocco. 

The gardens offer five educational circuits showcasing the biodiversity of exotic plants from around the world.

In the garden’s vivarium, you can observe the life of reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of other species. 

The Gardens of Oudayas :

At the foot of the palace of the Kasbah of Oudayas, lies the Andalusian Gardens of Oudayas where smoothing tranquility reigns. 

There you can find fruit trees and all kinds of flowers from rose-laurels, bougainvilleas to daturas.

The Zoo of Rabat :

Recently renovated, the new zoo, now known as “wild encounter”, highlights the African flora and fauna in an open fashion.

The zoo presents visitors with an interactive picture of swamps, rainforests, savannahs, deserts, Atlas Mountain, and African wildlife. 

Mamora Forest :

Located between Rabat and Kenitra, this natural site is considered the green lungs of the region and is Morocco’s main source of cork oaks.

Any nature lover seeking a peaceful, tranquil resort for an exceptional walk or hike to relax from all the sightseeing in Rabat, Mamora Forest is one of the best things to do in Rabat.

Categories
Moroccan Tourism

The Inauguration of Direct Israel-Morocco Flights: A New Milestone

The Inauguration of Direct Israel-Morocco Flights
The Inauguration of Direct Israel-Morocco Flights: A New Milestone in the Normalization Efforts Between Morocco and Israel

The Inauguration of Direct Israel-Morocco Flights: A New Milestone in the Normalization Efforts Between Morocco and Israel

Direct Israel-Morocco Flights

Under the re-establishment of diplomatic ties between Morocco and Israel in December 2020, both countries reaffirmed the importance of enhancing cooperation in all sectors, including tourism.

This has led to the decision to inaugurate direct flights between the two countries.

The announcement of a direct flight route between Israel and Morocco is also driven by Morocco’s resumption of international flights last June after months of travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Consequently, it has now become possible to travel between Israel and Morocco without a stopover. 

On Sunday, July 25th  two Israeli airlines launched their first commercial flights between Israel and Morocco,  carrying hundreds of tourists and members of the Jewish diaspora from Israel.

The first two direct flights were set between Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv and landed in the Marrakech-Menara International Airport.

These flights were operated by the Israeli companies  El Al Airlines and Israir Airlines.

Following these flights between the two countries, Morocco’s National Tourism Office (ONMT) signed a memorandum of understanding with Israel’s El Al airlines.

This memorandum aims to provide a common framework to promote Morocco as a travel destination, improve media coverage of the flight route, and essentially increase tourism between Morocco and Israel.

When Should you Expect  Regular Flights Between Morocco and Israel?

As of now, Israeli airlines operate one scheduled flight per week but hope to increase this number to five flights per week depending on demand.

These flights, which will take between five to six hours, will land at Menara Airport and will start at a cost of $499 for a round trip.

In the near future, El Al Airlines intends to operate three flights per week between Tel Aviv and Marrakech aboard its Boeing 737-900ER. This aircraft, the ONMT disclosed,  can accommodate 16 passengers in business class and 159 in economy class.

It was also indicated that El Al will operate three weekly rotations to Casablanca’s Mohammed V airport by next September.

Similarly, Israir Airlines declared its intention to open five additional flights per week between Israel and Morocco.

As tourism officials predict high demand, flights from/ to  Morocco will also be offered by Arkia Airlines and Royal Air Maroc.

 Arkia Airlines is set to launch its direct flights to Morocco next Tuesday, August 3rd.

Royal Air Maroc also intends to begin operating flights from Casablanca to Tel Aviv later this year.

Additionally, the Israeli company Tal Aviation recently confirmed that Morocco’s national carrier Royal Air Maroc will be opening a representative office in Israel.

Your Covid-related Travel Concerns Answered:

Israel has issued a Covid-19 travel notice regarding travel to North African countries including Morocco. Thus, the Israel Ministry of Health requires travelers arriving in Israel from Morocco to self-isolate upon their arrival to the country.

Travelers with valid vaccination will only have to be isolated for 24 hours upon their arrival to Israel.

For more information, visit the digital Israeli government guidelines. 
Here, you can find more information about Covid-19  information in Morocco to help you during your stay in the country.

Categories
Moroccan Tourism

The Best Places to Visit in Marrakech (Summer 2024)

The Best Places to Visit in Marrakech 2021
The Best Places to Visit in Marrakech (Summer 2021)

The Best Places to Visit in Marrakech : Places List

Marrakech, A Heaven of Peace, Relaxation and Pure Delight!

As known, Marrakech city has always been considered as the pearl of the south.

The capital city of tourism that attracted millions all over the world. Its calmness, serenity, and beauty were quite enough to get it ranked as one of the major touristic cities in Africa.

Marrakech is actually two cities standing together as one. The old town within its historic walls of adobe and the new town with its districts of Guéliz and L’Hivernage.

Marrakech is perfectly ideal for discovering on foot, via bicycle or simply by a barouche. Both the old town and the new one hold a huge number of gardens and green spaces.

Those gardens include the Majorelle Garden, Arsat Moulay Abdessalam Park, Bahia Palace Gardens and the orchards of Menara and Agdal.

This article shows you what to see and explore when visiting to Marrakech.

1- Medina, The Old Town (Marrakech):

For the vast majority of tourists and city visitors, Medina is certainly their first and most attractive site in Marrakech. Situated exactly at the center of the city, known for its narrow alleyways where rug shops are all around.

Besides, Medina’s souks, traditional markets, are obviously what makes it distinctive and more attracting.

The souks represent the real richness and the outstanding Marrakchi craftsmanship and famous for their diversity and lively atmosphere.

Some of those wonderful souks include the Babouche Souk, Chouari Souk, El Attarine Souk, and Cherratine Souk. Each one of them with its own charm and uniqueness.

2- Jemaa El Fna, The Living Heart of Marrakech

Located at the entry to Medina, Jemaa El Fna is a very large square renowned for its bustle of activity. Its unparalleled atmosphere gathers people form everywhere and it is open only to pedestrians.

Surrounded by coffee shops and restaurant stalls that offer different kinds of food and drink. At the evening, it becomes a lively hub for locals and visitors.

That is to say, there are storytellers to listen to, snake charmers, acrobats, and most importantly musicians and Gnaoua dancers.

3- The Koutoubia Mosque, The Spiritual Lighthouse of Marrakech

The Koutoubia Mosque is a major landmark in Marrakech and one of the city’s most unmissable sights.

The mosque that was built in 1150 by the Almohads as it took about 40 years to be completed.

Renowned for Its charming design and highly sophisticated decoration. It is ranked among the most beautiful monuments of the Maghreb.

It is to be found within the old town walls. Its very tall Menara can be seen from more than 20 kilometers away. When lit up in the evenings, it becomes the city’s spiritual lighthouse.

4- Ben Youssef Mdersa, The Koranic University

It was built by the Saadians in 1564. Ben Youssef Mdersa is thought to be the jewel of Moroccan architecture and a great pathological university.

The large koranic school that attracted a big number of students from throughout the Muslim world.

With its charming Islamic architecture style, it contains warrens of rooms that used to hold hundreds of pupils.

Ben Youssef Mdersa is finely decorated with marble, mosaics, stuccowork, and carved cedar wood.

It is really a place worth discovering when traveling to Marrakech.

5- The Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden, a symphony of light and colour. A lush tropical garden full of cacti, palms, and ferns, and are the work of painter Jacques Majorelle.

Jacques came from the town of Nancy in France to Marrakesh specifically for health reasons. He became well known for his paintings of local Moroccan life. His most famous work, though, was this garden and the vibrant painter’s own studio he lived in on the grounds.

The artist painted the walls of his Art-Deco villa and garden. But the property now belongs to the Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint-Laurent Foundation and houses a museum dedicated to Berber artistry.

6- Menara Gardens

Menara is simply an artificial lake surrounded by a huge and an immense garden planted with olive trees.

The Menara, which is situated at the heart of the city, is a very popular spot for locals. A favorite place to a lot of people due to its tranquility, peace and quiet meditation.

But for visitors the first attraction would be the large pool and a graceful summer pavilion that was built by Almohads.

Menara is actually one of the most attracting sites in the city and many choose to picnic and stroll there.

7- Marrakech by Night

As the night falls, Marrakech becomes another different city and a new life begins. There are many things you would prefer to do so as to spend an elegant evening.

Apart from Jemaa El Fna, there is a big number of night clubs, pubs and casinos. They are what makes the city quite hectic at night and lets everyone enjoy life to the fullest.

8- Well-being in Marrakech

The city holds a wide range of fitness centers, specialized institutes and beauty salons that offer high quality services. They include hammams, saunas, jacuzzis, massages, spas, relaxation and body and beauty care.

If it is the first time you visit Marrakech and would like to be at the heart of action. Probably the best place to stay in is Medina. Being considered the old town and its location at the city center made it a lively place and so hectic.

Just around the Medina, there are many hotels, Riads and traditional Moroccan guesthouses, some of the best-value accommodation services.

Flights to Marrakech

Hotels in Marrakech


Categories
Moroccan Tourism

Cheap Hotels in Morocco: The Best Offers

Cheap Hotels in Morocco
Cheap Hotels in Morocco: The Best Offers

Cheap Hotels in Morocco: The best deals you can book

If you are looking for an amazing trip abroad with a wide range of adventures without breaking your bank, Morocco is the perfect choice for you.

Morocco is a very budget-friendly destination. Whether you are a backpacker on a tight budget, a couple of friends with a mid-range budget, or a family looking for extreme luxury and glamour, you always find cheap hotels in Morocco.

If Morocco sounds like your next destination, this article will be your ultimate budget accommodation guide, featuring tips on dorms, hotels, riads, and more! 

Read : The Best Moroccan Hotels and Resorts (The World’s Best Awards 2021)

Cheap Hostel Options:

If you are looking for a clean and comfortable place to book for the night in Morocco, hostels are the most affordable accommodation option for you.

Here, we have gathered a list of the best-reviewed hostels in Morocco for you to browse. 

When it comes to cheap hotels in Morocco, Chefchaouen tops the list

  • . Budget-friendly options include Chaouen Youth Hostel for as low as 6$ and Dar Besmellah for 16$ per night.
    Typically, you should also be able to find cheap Moroccan houses to rent for 10$ per night.

  • As far as reviews and prices go, your best option in  Marrakech is Mosaic Hostel with a price ranging from 6$ to 27$ a night.

  • A stay in one of Fez’s best-rated hostels, Fez Touria Palace will cost around 14-20$ per night.

  • One of your best options in Tangier is Tanja Lucia. There you can rent an excellent dorm room for the price of $10 a night or a private room for $30 a night.

  • If you are visiting to Essaouira, one of the best accommodations you can book is at  Chill Art Hostel. It is priced at $13 a night for a dorm and $27 for a two-peoples private room.

You are likely to find similar options around the same price depending on where you want to stay exactly in the city.

In general, you can expect to spend around $10-15 a night for dorm rooms in Morocco, and up to $25-30 a night for private double rooms.

How About Cheap Hotels and Riads In Morocco?

If you are willing to spare a bit more money for a more luxurious stay. You can consider hotels and riads for an unforgettable stay and excellent service that is still not-so-expensive. Here are is a list of recommendations by city:

Cheap hotels in Marrakech:

Riad Carina provides you with beautiful scenery in a Moroccan-style interior, a pool, and a stunning terrace for only 48$ a night for a double room.

This riad is perfectly located a walk-away from Marrakesh’s tourist attractions. If you are a family looking for child-friendly accommodation in Marrakech  Ryad Atlas IV and Hotel Atlas for a price ranging between 33-36$.

Cheap hotels in Fez:

Starting at 28$ a night, you can enjoy a quiet night and an authentic traditional Moroccan vibe at Dar Fes Tresor. Here, you get to have a nicely decorated room with colored glass windows and mosaics. This place also has an amazing rooftop view.

Cheap hotels in Chefchaouen:

For 45$ a night for a double room, you can stay at Dar Swiar. This place offers an incredible rooftop view of the blue ambiance of the city and is just a walk away from the city center. Another equally excellent choice is  Dar Elrio. It is one of the best-reviewed hotels in the city with a price starting from $20-40 per night.

Cheap hotels in Agadir: 

Here are the top 3 recommendations for the best time in Agadir V&D Tamraght Surfers Hostel (30$), Anza Surf House (44$), and Surf Safari (33$). 

(also check: The best places to visit in Agadir)

Free Accommodation Options 

Yes! If you are on a really tight budget and don’t mind being hosted, you have many chances to land free accommodation by locals.

You can check out Couchsurfing to connect with Moroccan locals that will allow you to sleep in their spare sofa or bed. Not only is this a free option but it also allows you to have an authentic experience in a Moroccan household.

If you are looking for a little more luxury, and don’t mind a bit of service in exchange, you can try House Sitting.

All you have to do is pay for your stay in wonderful places by house sitting and caring for pets while their owners are away. This option works best if your travel dates are on the flexible side.

The Bottom Line:

As You can see, you can find accommodation options at every price point in Morocco. Major cities are on the pricier side, so if you want to spend less, cheap hotels in Morocco are located further from the center of cities.

Looking for cheap Hotels in Morocco real quick with up-to-date prices? browse and book all the accommodation options available :

Book Hotels in Morocco

Categories
Moroccan Tourism

Cheap Flights to Morocco: How To Get The Best Prices

Cheap Flights To Morocco

Cheap Flights to/from Morocco: Full Guide on how to search and book Flights with the right prices

Morocco, one of the most captivating countries in north Africa, is an all-year-round destination.

There is always more to explore in Morocco which keeps tourists constantly coming back for more.

Morocco is home to some of the most beautiful world heritage sites, atmospheric medinas, gorgeous beaches, and golden Sahara.

From major tourist attractions such Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fez to the most underrated cities, there is nothing richer than a visit to Morocco, but at what cost can you get there? 

There is nothing worse than paying over the odds for a flight. If you are considering visiting Morocco on a budget in 2021, you might be bugged with all the strategic thinking that goes into it.

From choosing the right airline, the right season to the smallest of technicalities, this article will provide you with all you need to know about booking cheap flights to Morocco to set out on your next trip to Morocco at the best prices. 

When is the cheapest time to fly to Morocco?

If you are looking for the cheapest flight prices for your next visit to Morocco, you need to keep an eye on your calendar to strategically plan your trip around low seasons.

Flight tickets tend to skyrocket around high seasons; the New Year holiday, Christmas time, and the summer vacation months of July and August. 

If your vacation plans are flexible and you want a relaxing quiet experience away from tourist crowds, it is recommended that you travel off-season for better deals and quieter flights.

Reportedly, the cheapest months to fly to Morocco are January and February.

Since Morocco has something wonderful to offer any time of the year, if you decide to travel in these months not only will you be able to get the cheapest flight deals but you will also have the country’s top attractions all to yourself and get an authentic look into Moroccan lifestyle.

If you must book your flight for a high season, we recommend that you book your trip way ahead of time ( at least two weeks prior to your departure)  to avoid ridiculously priced tickets. 

What are the best airline options to fly to/from Morocco?

Flights to Morocco are provided by major airlines from Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

The Moroccan national airline, Royal Air Maroc, is a major on-budget carrier airline offering daily direct or one-stop flights to Agadir, Casablanca, Fez, Marrakesh, Rabat, and Tangier from nearly all European countries and flies to more than 80 destinations.

For the latest special promotions, discounts, and last-minute offers, keep an eye on the airline’s website.

On-budget airlines flying to/from Morocco :

Air Arabia: majorly awarded as the “Best Low-Cost Airline” in the Middle East. This airline organizes regular budget flights to Casablanca, Tangier, Fez, and Nador.

Air France. Air France operates flights from major U.S. airports to Casablanca with a connection in Paris. For the best deals with this airline, you should watch out for discounts and book your flights in advance.

Brussels Airlines. This is another low-cost airline operating from Brussels, Belgium, with direct flights to Casablanca and Marrakech.

In general, Ryanair (serving in Agadir, Essaouira, Fez, Marrakesh, Nador, Oujda, Rabat, Tangier and EasyJet (serving in Agadir, Casablanca, Essaouira, Marrakesh) remain the top picks for on-budget airlines to fly between Morocco, Europe and the UK.

If you are interested in  landing off/taking off from certain cities, Here is a list of airlines classified by city: 

Check out flights to  Casablanca, Marrakech , Agadir, Rabat, Fez, Oujda,Tangier, Nador, Dakhla, Laayoune Hassan I, Al Hoceima, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, Errachidia, Tetouan, Beni Mellal, Zagora

Cheap Flights to/from Morocco: Flights Searching Tool

For your convenience, you don’t have to check every airline website for the latest deals with our flight searching tool and up-to-date flight deals.

This tool searches hundreds of airlines, comparing prices and destinations to instantly allow you to browse for flights.

All you have to do is to enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search bar above to display all the latest flight deals to ensure you’re getting the best and most suitable deals for you.