Author: Sara Yassine

The Best Destinations to Enjoy Your Spring in Morocco

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date April 3, 2022
1 Comment on The Best Destinations to Enjoy Your Spring in Morocco

The best thing to visit in Morocco in the spring

A common misconception about Morocco is that it is scorching hot all year round. However, being a
country on the Mediterranean, Morocco actually has four distinct seasons. Though temperatures
vary, Morocco is usually very sunny, making it a perfect holiday destination.

Another thing to think about when planning your ideal time to come to Morocco is local holidays and
events. For example, traveling during Ramadan will give you a different view of Morocco. Depending
on what type of trip you want, these could be times you especially seek out. Just be aware, so you
know what to expect!

Want a sunny day? Morocco, its diversity of landscapes, its azure beaches, its cities witnessing the mixing of cultures embodies the ideal destination for the Spring holidays. Get a tan early and taste the pleasures of Moroccan slow-life.

Spring in Morocco is usually considered the best time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant and it is
sunny. Spring is also a beautiful time for the landscape of Morocco as everything is bright and green.

Town dwellers

Land in Casablanca, a city as surprising as it is hectic. Don’t miss its retro-looking downtown, stroll
along its Corniche, try out the city’s trendy restaurants, visit the sumptuous Hassan II Mosque and
immerse yourself in the country’s economic capital.

Who lives a mile an hour. Calmer, its neighbor Rabat invites you to let go. Stroll through its city
center which is full of atypical places, treat yourself to a tour of the must-sees such as the Hassan
Tower and finally a stopover in the nearby beaches.

Photograph the Famed Blue Alleys of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is the most famous village of Morocco’s Rif Mountains, with the alleys and walls of its
small medina all washed in blue tones, making it one of Morocco’s most photographed spots.The
town is near Tetouan, 197 kilometers northwest of Fes, and 112 kilometers southeast of Tangier,
making it an easy stop-off on a journey through Morocco’s northern region.

The main activity in town is simply wandering the skinny lanes and soaking up the atmosphere,
though once you’ve marveled at the colorful streets, there’s plenty of hikes in the Rif Mountains to
head off on.

Chefchaouen’s distinctive architecture, which features Spanish-style balconies and ceramic-tiled
roofs, is due to the Muslim and Jewish refugees who were evicted from Spain in the 15th century and
settled here. The blue color of the buildings, though, only began in the 1930s.

Shop amid the Medina in Fez

Although Marrakesh remains the favorite Moroccan city-break destination and attracts many visitors
solely for its shopping, Fez is the country’s undisputed artisanal capital.
Within the maze-like confines of Fes’ high-walled medina (called Fes el-Bali), you’ll find artisan
workshops making traditional copperware and carpentry, dying leatherware (the tanneries of Fes are
one of the most photographed sights within the medina), and the famous blue and white Fassi
ceramics.

While shopping in Fes medina, it’s a good idea to steer away from the well-trodden tourist streets,
where shops and stalls mostly sell trinkets or overpriced handicrafts. The workshops of the artisans,
hidden down in the back alleys, are where you’ll discover the best shopping.

Heritage

History buffs, head for El Jadida a few kilometers south of Casablanca. From the passage of the
Portuguese it retains vestiges which give it a particular character. In the Portuguese city, in the shade
of the ramparts, stroll. Take a break at the beach, the coast of El Jadida offers beautiful sessions of
idleness. Then continue your route south to Essaouira, mysterious and inspiring, a true oasis for
travelers. Picturesque medina, water sports and golf, the city of the trade winds has no shortage of
arguments to seduce you.

Beaches

No vacation without long hours spent lazing on the sand? Opt for a trip to Tangier and its heavenly
beaches in addition to a charming city that reveals its secrets as you stroll through its streets. The
North of Morocco, lulled by the turquoise of the Mediterranean offers breathtaking landscapes.

Surf the wave? Agadir in the South, with its multitude of world-renowned surf spots, should satisfy
you. The city with permanent sunshine offers its visitors, in addition to its expanses of sand and its
ideal waves, a lively night life.

Essaouira, on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast (191 kilometers west of Marrakesh), is known as the windy
city, and although many visitors head here simply to enjoy the sea breezes and explore the medina,
Essaouira’s prevailing winds have made it a top windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing destination.

In particular, the small beachfront hamlet of Sidi Kaouki, 25 kilometers to the south of town, is
dedicated to windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing holidays, with plenty of lessons and packages on
offer, as well as equipment hire.

For a vacation not centered around water sports, Essaouira has a fine beach, with plenty of blustery
winds, and there are surf shops right on the sand.

Authentic

Do you dream of discovering the charms of Morocco? Marrakech, its medina, its souks, its designer
boutiques, its Palmeraie, its special atmosphere is unmissable. Between desert and mountains of the
High Atlas, the ocher city leaves no one indifferent. Fez, further inland also offers a splendid glimpse
of Arab-Muslim culture and architecture. City of traditions, witness to the golden age of Arab
hegemony over knowledge, Fez is a jewel to discover between monuments, medina, and crafts. take
a City Break in Style in a Marrakesh Riad

Marrakesh’s accommodation is an attraction in itself, and for many travelers, one of the top things to
do on a city break here is to stay in one of the medina’s (old town’s) riad hotels.

A riad is a traditional Moroccan medina mansion, with a courtyard garden in the middle. Many have
been restored to finery and opened as hideaway small hotels that have swags of traditional
Moroccan artisan expertise on display, with wood ceilings, tadelakt (polished lime plaster) walls,
traditional zellij (ceramic tile) details, and brass swinging lamps.

Hidden within the medina alleys, and with rooftop terraces and internal courtyards (sometimes with
plunge pools) to relax in, Marrakesh’s riad hotels make for a soft landing in the city and are good
bases for exploring the medina

Hike Jebel Toubkal

Jebel Toubkal is the highest mountain in north Africa, with its summit at 4,167 meters. The two-day
return trek to its summit is the most popular walk in the High Atlas, and one of the most popular
activities in Morocco.

It’s a non-technical trek (no climbing), but as the upper reaches are steep, it involves trekking up
scree slopes. It also takes place at altitude, and the trek can be difficult, so a decent level of fitness is
required. The stunning views all along the trail, as well as on the summit, are worth all the sweat,
though.

Enthusiastic hikers can opt to trek the Toubkal Circuit instead of just make the two-day ascent. The
Toubkal Circuit is a seven-day trek, which takes in much of the surrounding High Atlas countryside
before ascending Jebel Toubkal’s summit.

Jebel Toubkal sits in Toubkal National Park, and the main center of activity for arranging treks and
other activities in the area is the village of Imlil, 67 kilometers south of Marrakesh.

Mountain Bike or Hike the Ounilla Valley Area?

Mountain bikers, hikers, and off-road drivers will love the trails here. They wind through this fertile
valley of orchards and farmlands, speckled with isolated settlements and crumbling mudbrick
kasbahs (forts) and ksar (fortified villages).

This High Atlas valley stretches from Telouet (127 kilometers southeast of Marrakesh) to the
UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou, which is the main historic highlight and gets plenty of day
trippers, but the valley itself is a peaceful slice of rural life where you’re unlikely to see any other
visitors.

Multi-day treks or bike rides can be arranged, or it’s easy to use Telouet or Ait Benhaddou as bases
for exploring the wider area with day hikes and bike rides.

In conclusion

As you will have understood, Morocco can be visited at any time of the year. However, choose the
mid-season if you can. All the climatic conditions are in fact combined in spring to make your trip as
successful and unforgettable as possible.

Visit Safi: 19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Safi

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date February 19, 2022
1 Comment on Visit Safi: 19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Safi

Visit Safi Morocco

The full tourism guide to discover Safi

Renowned in Morocco and around the world for the quality of its ceramic pottery, Safi is a city
steeped in history as well as Souiria Lakdima, a summer and vacation resort and the charming beach
of Cap Bedouza.

Fit for any visitor eager for discovery. Crossroads between the North and the South of the Kingdom,
the city of Safi, presents an important and diversified tourist potential.

Admittedly, seaside tourism occupies a special place there thanks to a long coastline of fine sandy
beaches, but the city with a glorious past has other tourist assets made up of historical sites, natural
settings conducive to relaxation and discovery.

The hinterland has many attractions for a diversified tourist activity: hiking, discoveries and visits to
historical sites, sports practice….

Open to the Atlantic Ocean, the city has always been a privileged space for the exchange of ideas,
goods and encounters between people, so much does it nourish the spirit of adventure, freedom and
discovery so dear to people of the sea.

Safi tour:

The medina and the Souk alley

To discover and appreciate the beauty of the old medina, it is pleasant to take the boulevard along
the seafront from Place of independence, to reach Rue du Souk. This street is in fact the main artery
of the medina which crosses the city on both sides to Bab Chaâba.
The many stalls that line this long narrow street alone concentrate all the commercial activity of the
medina.

The charm and interest of the place are justified by this architectural harmony combining buildings
and buildings of different cultures and faiths (Christian, Muslim and Jewish).

Thus, once arrived at the height of the great mosque, a passage leads straight to the Portuguese
chapel, built in 1519. The building which still retains traces of the Manueline style is the heart of the
cathedral of Safi.

The Sea Castle (Ksar El Bhar)

This “Sea Castle” built by the Portuguese in the 15th century was for some time the seat of the
governor. It served as a fortress to defend and protect the northern part of the old port, the city and
the Governor’s Residence. It was fully restored in 1963.

Its large monumental door opens onto the , or place d’armes, where you can admire a dozen old
Spanish and Dutch cannons pointing towards the ocean.
And you can enjoy a panoramic view of the sea, the port and the old medina, from the southwest
bastion of the Sea Castle.

Borj Eddar the kechla

The imposing walls of this citadel date from the Portuguese occupation (1508 and 1514) as
evidenced by the coat of arms of King Emmanuel 1st on one of the towers of the citadel.

A monumental door leads directly to a large platform lined with old cannons as well as a superb
semi-circular tower from which there is a panoramic view of the city of Safi and more particularly its
port, its medina, its minaret of the R ‘bat and the Potters’ Hill.

The Potters’ Hill

Rich in rare mineralogical resources and enjoying ideal climatic conditions, Safi has been able to
develop its own craft activity which has made and continues to make its reputation both nationally
and internationally.

The city became the first African pottery center and the first school of ceramics in Africa.
The Potters’ Hill brings together master potters, ceramists and weavers who, thanks to their knowhow and dexterity, have made the city a destination of choice for local crafts.

Safi has raw materials such as clay and natural fuels (broom) used to heat the cooking ovens, as well
as ancestral craftsmanship.

The city walls Of Almohad origin, the wall surrounding the city was rebuilt by the Portuguese
between 1510 and 1540. Equipped with a walkway and a parapet, it is flanked by several towers and
pierced by several doors, the most important of which are Bab Achaâba and Bab El Kouass.

The biggest tagine in the world

Safi also owes its fame to the largest tajine of sardine dumplings in the world presented on Saturday
July 10, 1999 on Place Mohammed V.

Two hundred women participated in the preparation of this gigantic dish. This feat is listed in the
Guinness Book of Records.

This tagine measures 6.30 m in diameter and 4.5 m in height. It was decorated by the best potters in
the city.

The Medersa

This monument built near the Great Mosque of Safi around 1218 of the Hegira served as a residence
for students who followed the courses given by the Ulemas within the Mosque.

Dar Soltan

Dar Soltan “The House of the Sultan” is a citadel whose origin dates back to the Almohad period
(XIXIIIth centuries), it served as protection for the city because of its position.

Over the centuries, the monument has undergone frequent renovations and rearrangements.
Between 1508 and 1541, the Portuguese endowed it with a large tower engraved with a coat of arms
of the Portuguese King Emmanuel 1st (currently called Borj Dar).

The site enjoys a panoramic view of the city and particularly of the cascade of houses in the medina,
descending towards the Château de la Mer and the Ocean.

Currently, the monument houses the National Museum of Ceramics. The Portuguese Cathedral It was
built by the Portuguese in 1519 in the Emmanuelin style. During his retreat from the city in 1541,
King Emmanuel ordered its destruction.

Only a vaultless chapel and a heart have been preserved. Later, what remained of the cathedral was
transformed into a public Hammam (Hammam al Bwiba). It was still functioning until the beginning
of this century.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the Department of Fine Arts at the time intervened to remedy
this situation by classifying the cathedral as a historical monument.

Fishing harbor

The port of Safi is one of the largest sardine ports in Africa. To contemplate the incessant coming and
going of fishing boats and boats, you can take a walk on the port side.

The fish-rich waters of the coasts of the Safi region allow trawlers and fishing boats to land some 26
tons of fresh fish daily, which can be obtained at very affordable prices.

The National Museum of Ceramics

This museum provides a global look at the production of ceramics in Morocco and highlights the city
of Safi, renowned for its artisanal production and its workshops since the end of the 19th century.
The exhibition offers a collection of works large enough to capture this invaluable part of the national
heritage.

Presented chronologically, it offers visitors a retrospective on several periods of history.
From prehistory to contemporary times, from the sugar factories of Chichaoua to the pottery of the
Rif, without forgetting the pottery with green glaze of Tamegroute and the enamelled and
polychrome ceramics of Meknes and Fez, the diversity of ancestral techniques used over the
centuries is in value to remind visitors, from here and elsewhere, of the rich heritage of Morocco.

The course of the museum makes it possible to trace a map of Morocco on the one hand, the objects
found during archaeological excavations and, on the other hand, the artefacts produced in the
Moroccan workshops.

To attract more people, the museum is betting on a modern layout and offers a multimedia space,
fun activities and documentation adapted to the different visitor profiles.
On the heights of the city, overlooking the medina and the ocean, this museum is a place of memory
in tribute to the diversity and authenticity of Moroccan ceramics, rich in various influences that have
shaped its success.

A heritage that it was necessary to preserve to recall the work of the craftsmen who, for centuries,
have modeled History in clay and clay. This place is also dedicated to these great “maâllems”, these
masters who bring out forms and meaning in their hands.
Ceramics is a marker of time that allows us to trace the history of Moroccan civilizations and show
their many facets.

Hunting and fishing tourism

The Safi region is rich in game. There are hares, quails, snipes, red partridges and wild pigeons. In
winter, teal, ducks and common cranes…

In addition to this potential, there is the Royal Reserve of the Gazelle of Sidi Chiker on 1987 hectares,
with 280 heads.

For fishing enthusiasts, the beach at Cape Beddouza is a top resort and relaxation spot. Fishing for
sea trout, wolf, conger and ray is within the reach of amateurs, given the abundance of marine game.

Safi and its beaches:

The beach of the city of Safi Surf Park of Sidi Bouzid, is characterized by a wave classified as one of
the best in the world.

Lalla Fatna beach

Located 15 km from Safi, one of the most beautiful beaches in Safi. Dominated by a high cliff, it offers
its visitors the calm and expanse of its beach with long strips of golden sand. This beach, endowed
with a mild climate, remains a tourist area very popular with summer visitors.

Cape Beddouza Beach

For lovers of fishing, hiking and speleological discoveries, this charming beach halfway between Safi
and Oualidia is a top resort and relaxation spot.

Ras el-Lafâa (Devil’s Rock)

A world-class surfing point break, its wave ranks among the top ten straights in the world. The
location and the good wind conditions also attract wind and kite surfers. Classified among the “World
Class Waves”, the Safi wave has become an unmissable attraction for world surfing champions.

Karam Daif Beach

60 km along the coast, south of Oualidia, this is a magnificent, very wide and well-maintained beach
which also offers services to bathers.

Souira Lakdima Beach (Blue Flag)

Finally, 36 kilometers south of Safi, for lovers of discovery and adventure, you will discover Souira
Lakdima Beach, a summer and holiday resort. Its calm, its expanse and its forest offer opportunities
for hunting, fishing and scuba diving.

Events in Safi:

Safi offers the triple attraction of old Portuguese buildings, a very active port and a living city. It also
offers its visitors a multitude of artistic, cultural and sporting events and events.

The Sea Festival

Safi has its annual meeting of the sea in May around the theme of the sea and sailors.
For the record, in Safi, the fishing season don’t start until the imperturbable ceremonial of the
festivities organized each year at the Sidi Bouzekri mausoleum during the moussem of the fishermen
sailors.

The season begins with prayers and incantations, the solemn sacrifice of a black goat and the long
trance of the people of the sea, all fervent followers of the brotherhood of the Hmadchas.
Various songs, old and new, is on the program every year.

The Sea Festival is organized between the exhibition hall, the conferences, the gastronomic festival
and the shows on a total area of 4,000 m2 with 100 exhibition stands for 50,000 visitors and
participants.

The Bladi Safi Caftan Festival

The Caftan Bladi event, organized in March, aims, among other things, to highlight the talent of Safi
craftswomen and to support them financially. It brings together sewing professionals and artists who
give impetus to the promotion of this art in the region.

Human, artistic and cultural encounter. This appointment schedules fashion shows, exhibitions,
sewing workshops, to promote embroidery and weaving in the region.

Aita Festival

Organized in August by the Ministry of Culture, this event is a meeting place for a public connoisseur
or simply amateur of this musical genre perpetuated in this region.

(Read about Ganwa festival in Essaouira)

Gastronomy and local products

Safi is known for its culinary art and has acquired his stripes at the international level.
It reflects a certain art of living and keeps the specialties of the region, namely: tajine, couscous, fish,
pastries, etc…

A varied cuisine

The praline fish, the marzipan, the orange salad with black olives, the fondant meringue with
walnuts… Families have been able to perpetuate this culinary delicacy. There are other variants, with
for example caramelized tomatoes (matecha maâssla) and flavored with orange blossom water.
You can also be tempted by a fish stuffed with steamed saffron rice, then mixed with raisins and
crushed almonds.

Mint tea, the national drink, is also served to guests as an accompaniment to Moroccan cakes such as
gazelle horns, ghoriba (shortbread), Massabane (typical Safiot cake)…

At the gastronomic level Safi, like any Moroccan city will enchant you with very rich and varied
dishes, you can taste a Berber couscous, an olive tagine, a fish tagine or other dishes based on argan
oil, of olive oil or amlou.

Safi inherited the gastronomy of Western Andalusia (Spanish West and Portugal), it is part of the
Moroccan-Portuguese heritage to which gastronomy does not escape: Salad of Market Hazina with
argan oil, dishes and fish-based tagines, the famous Safiote cake: Massapan, without forgetting that
Berber cuisine and especially Jewish cuisine have marked this region.

Safi in Motion

To conclude

Safi and its surroundings have confirmed their rank as a tourist destination in their own right, with
their immense potential, whether in the fields of history, biodiversity or the richness of the
landscapes.

A visit of the city is recommended for tourists eager for a total change of scenery, aspiring to take
advantage of local tourism or the discovery of curiosities. The dazzling of the senses remains the key
word of any stay in the region.

It offers visitors the triple advantage of being both a city with a past
steeped in history, a living and active city thanks to its merchant port and a city renowned at the
artisanal level for its pottery and ceramics.

Tags Essaouira, Safi

Moroccan Tourism

Finally, Morocco To Reopen Its Borders This Month

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date January 30, 2022

Morocco Opens The Airspace Borders in February 2022

Morocco reopens its airspace in February after more than 2 months of closure

The Moroccan government has decided to reopen the airspace from February 7 to flights to and from the country, after more than two months of closure, according to a statement released Thursday evening by the MAP agency.

Authorities were under pressure from a bankrupt tourism sector and Moroccans stranded abroad to unblock borders closed since November 29 due to an outbreak of the Omicron variant.

“This decision comes in accordance with the legal provisions relating to the management of the state of health emergency and following the recommendations of the scientific and technical commission and taking into account the evolution of the epidemiological situation in the kingdom”, indicates the press release.

“To support the implementation of this decision, a technical commission is currently examining the measures to be adopted at the border posts and the conditions required for travelers, which will be announced later”, specifies the same source.

The government also extended Thursday the state of health emergency in force since 2020, throughout the territory, until February 28.

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) announced, this Friday, the resumption of its international scheduled flights, on its entire network, from February 7, 2022, date of the reopening of the Moroccan borders within the framework of measures related to the Covid-19 health crisis. Pending the resumption of regular air traffic, special flights continue to operate from January 28 to February 6, 2022, to Paris, Brussels, Milan, Barcelona and Madrid.

In reference to the government’s decision, announced Thursday evening, RAM is preparing to reschedule its flights to and from Morocco, thus replacing the special one-way flights, operated on a limited basis in recent months to a few international destinations. In a press release, the airline indicated that “the flight program will thus include direct flights connecting Morocco to around fifty airports in Europe, Africa, America, the Middle East and Asia”.

According to the same source, the RAM “will strengthen its flight program with a gradual increase in the number of frequencies and destinations”, to better support travelers as part of the resumption of international traffic. In this sense, the company recalls that the trips will be carried out “in strict compliance with the conditions required by the public authorities which will be announced later, in order to guarantee the health and safety” of customers and staff.

Tickets for flights available for sale can be purchased through RAM’s website, through its call centers and sales agencies, as well as through the travel agency network, the company said.

Until 4 p.m. this Friday, 4,899 cases of the new coronavirus have been recorded in Morocco. Thus, the total number of people infected since the start of the health crisis in the country has reached 1,124,986. In addition, 24,653,642 people have received, until today, the first dose of the vaccine against Covid-19. , while 23,071,933 received the second and 4,358,048 received the third.

Tags Agadir, Casablanca, Dakhla, Essaouira, Fez, Marrakech, Ouarzazate

Desert & Sahara Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism

Zagora : 10 Things About This Magnificent Desert

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date January 1, 2022
No Comments on Zagora : 10 Things About This Magnificent Desert

Visit Zagora

Dusty streets, terracotta buildings, huge skies. Zagora, in the south-east of Morocco, is a place that is inextricably linked with the Sahara Desert.

Named after the nearby mountain, Zagora was once a stronghold of the Almoravid people, and their legacy can still be seen in the surrounding hills.

Outside the town is the amazing Draa Valley, which follows the twists and turns of the river – an unforgettable place where thick groves of palm trees line the twists and turns of the river, while the Jbel Saghro mountain range rises in the background.

Everything You Need To Know About Zagora :

1. Zagora culture

The culture you’ll find in Zagora is very different to that of the northern towns and cities. While you’re here make time for the Musée des Arts and Traditions de la Vallee de Draa.

This wonderful building is dedicated to the Amazigh way of life in the Draa Valley. With plenty of exhibits including jewelry, weapons, and even wedding outfits, this is a fascinating insight into the lives of the desert people.

And don’t miss the Festival of the Nomad in the nearby village of M’hamid where tribes from all over Morocco congregate to celebrate their unique culture.

2. Zagora cycling

The area around Zagora is ideal for enjoyable winter and spring riding. The weather at this time of the year is warm, but not overpoweringly hot, and riding in the desert under the Moroccan sun is an amazing experience.

The roads in the area are mainly good quality and work is ongoing to ensure that all roads are maintained. Once outside the town the road climbs gently up the Draa Valley, a lush valley lined with palm trees and greenery.

As you approach the high points, make sure you take time to enjoy the stunning views of the area.

If you’re more of an off-roader then you’ll find all the challenge that you could ever want, whether it’s dried up lakebeds, steep valley sides, or the sand of the Sahara itself.

3. Desert treks

The southern town of Zagora rests in the sands of the Sahara, making it an ideal base from which to take a desert trek. But it’s not all endless sands as far as the eye can see.

You can explore along the banks of the Oued Draa River, which bustles with wildlife, or travel by foot, 4×4, or camel through fields of date palms and into the stunning Draa valley.

The area retains its age-old charm with signs proclaiming that, if you were so inclined, it would take 52 days to reach Timbuktu by camel, (although we’d recommend getting the bus).

Hire a local guide or join an organized excursion, but make sure a desert trek is at the top of your ‘to do’ list.

4. Family days out

If you want a family holiday that is a world away from the usual beaches and theme parks, then a trip to Zagora is ideal. It’s a place where children can enjoy exploring the natural side of the world, in an environment that will captivate them.

Try a trek to the Draa Valley where your children can go fossil hunting or look for animals. The river that runs through it is perfect for a boating trip, and you’ll see traditional Amazigh villages and exotic wildlife.

A trip into the desert is a must, and what child could resist the chance to ride on a camel?

5. Food and drink

When it’s time to eat in Zagora you’ll have plenty of options for your dining pleasure. There are many restaurants in town, most towards the centre, and they serve a wide selection of traditional Moroccan dishes – fill your plates with couscous, tagines, or perhaps Madfouna – the ‘Berber Pizza’.

These delicious dishes have the dough on the outside, and are filled with all sorts of different foods such as lamb, steak, eggs, beef and vegetables. (Best Foods To Eat in Morocco)

It’s also worth visiting the souk and selecting your own wonderfully fresh food from the friendly stall holders.

6. Hammams

After a long hot day in Zagora, why not refresh yourself with a trip to a traditional hammam? There are several of these Moroccan bath houses in the town, usually family owned and run, and are an ideal way to cleanse yourself after a trip to the desert.

They’re also a great way to meet local Moroccans, who use their trips to the hammam as a social occasion as well as somewhere to get clean.

As well as the hammams in town, many hotels offer the same service. These are usually more similar to western style spas and more expensive than the traditional offerings, so the choice is yours!

7. People

The people of Zagora have been shaped by their environment for many years. Centuries living on the edge of the desert have forged a strong sense of independence into these Moroccans, but at the same time they are friendly and welcoming to visitors to their town.

A mix of Arab and Amazigh, they have a proud past, and much of their ancestry can be traced back to the Almoravid dynasty who had a strong presence in this area during the eleventh century.

8. Zagora retreats

If you’re looking for somewhere to go to get away from it all, rest, relax, and reconnect with yourself and nature then Zagora is the place to do just that.

The vast desert on its doorstep means that this is an extremely popular place to take a retreat, and there are many companies who will organize trips on which you can practice yoga, meditate, practice chakra flow and even desert flow in the quietude of the dunes.

9. Stayings

Zagora is a popular destination for tourists coming to see the desert so there are many hotels in the town to cater for visitors.

These are generally good quality places at reasonable prices, and many can organize treks into the desert and other excursions for you.

The traditional riad is another option, while a lot of people choose to get the full desert experience and spend the night in a nomadic camp outside the town. (Book Stays in Zagora)

10. Getting to Zagora

Zagora has an airport with direct flights from Ouarzazate, Casablanca and Marrakech.

Also people can choose to fly into Marrakech or Ouarzazate which can be reached with international flights from Europe, Asia, America… and get to Zagora by bus. (Book Flights to Morocco & Zagora)

The journey from Ouarzazate is around 100 miles, while Marrakech is approximately 225 miles away. There is a regular bus service to and from both these places to Zagora, which is by far the most popular and convenient way to arrive here.

To conclude :

Your journey will be enriched by the Zagora escape, an essential component of the plural Morocco, you will definitely be surprised by the difference and diversity of the region comparing to cities that may in first sight seem like Zagora, knowing that connoisseurs knows that every region in Morocco is unique in its own way.

Tags Merzouga, Ouarzazate, Zagora

Historic Sites

Visit Meknes : The Best Things to See and Do in Meknes

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date December 5, 2021
2 Comments on Visit Meknes : The Best Things to See and Do in Meknes

Bab al Mansour

Meknes the land of history

Morocco is a land of hospitality. Land of varied landscapes, contrasting contours and lush nature, it offers its legendary generosity and authentic know-how. With typical assets and inexhaustible resources, the cities endorse different personalities, competing for charm and hospitality.

Strolling through the souks you will discover local products and unique handmade treasures. Morocco is pleasure in everyday life, a heady scent of orange blossom, eucalyptus and tamarisk.

Great ambassador of art, Morocco offers a lot of artistic events of all kinds, and numerous art galleries, cultural centers and spaces for unique artists.

Cradle of noble music, the Kingdom claims a musical legacy, the pride of its inhabitants (Andalusian music, Gnaoua, Amazigh, chaabi, malhoun, and many others …)

Meknes isn’t far from this, it is indeed the perfect incarnation of what we’ve had written before, it is
in fact one of Morocco’s imperial cities, it’s medina is listed as world heritage of humanity.

Embedded between the Atlantic plains and the Eastern highlands, between the northern Middle Atlas and the hills of the Rif Mountains, it unveils a harmonious splendor.

With its architectural heritage, it’s an enchantment for visitors: wide ramparts, impressive palaces, its mosques, madrasahs, gardens, pools and museums. You will never forget your visit inside its walls where are combined wellness in its purest form, smooth lifestyle and ancient grandeur.

Buildings that defy time :

The ramparts of the city covering nearly 40 km in length are pierced twenty fortified gates, towers and bastions. At first glance the medina appears as a strong fortress. Here, the gates are works of art and souks offer a scenic and unusual journey.

The Al-Hedim place, a vast esplanade is an essential thoroughfare to access the souks. At dusk, the square and its large market come to life to accommodate merchants, acrobats, storytellers and fire eaters. A popular and timeless atmosphere is renewed.
On the edge of the Al-Hedim and the medina, the Dar Jamai Museum, in the Moorish style is now the Regional Museum of Ethnography, where gold threaded embroidery, pottery and antique jewelry recall the past splendors of the Kingdom.
The Bou Inania madrasah is a masterpiece built according to traditional coranic school plans. The walls of the courtyard are covered with zelliges, chiseled stucco, and beautiful cedar wood carvings, offering a wonderful example of Moorish decor.
The fabulous Hri Souani dates from the time of Moulay Ismail. With huge proportion, it consists of 23 naves supported by pillars and arches it served as a granary back in time. This place was used in many international films: such as “the last temptation of Christ” and “jesus of Nazareth”.
The Moulay Ismail mausoleum, built in 1703, is one of the few religious buildings open to non-Muslims. The mausoleum is accessed by The entrance door that is very ornate, surmounted by green tiles, the lower walls are covered with mosaics. Marble basin in the middle of a 9.88m by 10m side yard, The patio of the funeral complex is beautifully decorated, from floor to ceiling. in the middle stands a small marble basin.

The white marble tomb of de Moulay Ismaël is in the last room, the other two tombs are those of his son and successor Moulay Ahmed Ad-Dahabi and of Sultan Moulay Abderrahman Ibn Hicham. There is also the tomb of his first wife Lalla Khanta, on the right. The clocks given by Louis XIV to Moulay Ismail, for his refusal to grant the hand of the future Princess of Conti, are at the back of each side of the room.

The little treasures of Meknes :

With more than 50,000 artisans, Meknes and its region perpetuate ancestral knowledge in the art of wood carving and painting, weaving (carpets, hanbel, embroidery ..), wrought ironing or inlaying, leather (leather goods, binders and slippers).

Ecotourism destination per se, the resources of Meknes region are infinite. It is “Morocco’s water reserve as well as a forest, pastoral and agricultural land. A land with limitless resources, famous for its olive oil, its date palm culture, horse farming, trout farming… Etc.

Read also : Visit Essaouira (This is Why You Should Visit Essaouira Immediately)

Around Meknes :

About twenty miles north of Meknes, built on the rocky outcrop overlooking the valley of Oued Erroumane, the quiet town of Moulay Idriss houses the mausoleum of the founder of the Idrissides dynasty.

Volubilis, another key city in the region, was listed World Heritage by UNESCO in 1997.

Volubilis is the largest archaeological site in Morocco and is renowned for the many mosaics decorating the antique buildings. Going up towards the Middle Atlas, you will see along the road, huge cedar forests land, dotted with green valleys, lakes and springs.

Plenty of options for hiking, horse riding, trekking, mountain biking, fishing. At the heart of the mountains flows the longest river in Morocco, Oum Er-Rbia, rising 40 km from Khenifra.

Ifrane, nicknamed Morocco’s Switzerland is a charming traditional province at 1650 m. Displaying an urban character reminiscent of the alpine resorts with stone chalets and red tile roofs, it has a delightfully quiet and discreet atmosphere.

The mountain tops are often snowy in winter and the landscapes are pastoral. Skiers should not miss the slopes of nearby stations, Michlifen (2036m) and Jbel Heb (2104m).

Meknes Imperial, eternal city, offers you the experience of a timeless stay, at the frontiers between the history and present times.

Tags Fez, Ifrane, Meknes

Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains

Ifrane : The Best 10 Attractions To Visit

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date November 15, 2021
No Comments on Ifrane : The Best 10 Attractions To Visit

Ifrane, Morocco

In the heart of the Middle Atlas Mountains, the domains of Tourist Reception of Ifrane, “home of the Cedar” is a fascinating charming destination located about sixty kilometers from the two large imperial cities of Meknes and Fez.

The region is full of lush green landscapes, lakes and immense forests of cedars, holm oaks and pines. It is also one of the Kingdom’s vast water reserves where the largest Oum Er-Rbia River originates.

The region is home to a multitude of picturesque villages with Berber cachet and ancestral traditions.

Ifrane, ecological capital of Morocco

The lush vegetation as well as the abundance of its water resources and fertile pastures has earned Ifrane the nickname of Ourti, which in Berber means “garden”.

The Ifrane area has exceptional assets characterized by plant diversity (cedar forests, holm oaks, pines) and animals (partridges, wild bears, magot monkeys, macaques) and landscapes (natural and artificial lakes, caves, volcanic sites and magnificent scenery, cedar groves and steppes) to which is added the richness of the cultural heritage of the Middle Atlas (folklore, clothing, zaouiat, wooden sculptures and jewelry items) and internationally recognized ornithological sites for observation certain endemic birds (coot, tadone, covert, perge bee-eater) which attract both national and foreign tourists.

Ifrane, the little Switzerland of Morocco

The first traces of humans in the region date back to the Neolithic period. Caves such as those at Tizguite as well as archaeological remains dating back to prehistoric times at Zerouka, Ghabt Al Bahr and Itto bear witness to this.

Mountain town, with its houses with red tiles, its green meadows, its healthy climate, nicknamed the Switzerland of Morocco, Ifrane experiences a marked animation in winter and until spring, while during the summer, the freshness of its green sites, its forests of holm oaks, firs and cedars make it a vacation and summer resort par excellence.

It is home to one of the most prestigious universities in Morocco: Al Akhawayne. Ifrane is the most frequented summer resort and a stopover for those looking for calm in Swiss Berber style (Winter Tourism in Morocco).

The area has enormous tourist potential: variety and diversity of landscapes, lakes and rivers, as well as a mild climate. Its natural resources make it a favorite tourist center for hiking, wild boar, partridge and hare hunting.

Its lakes are essential for trout and pike fishing. It is also a pastoral region. This is where we find the largest cedar forest in Morocco. These forests are integrated into the international network of model forests.

Ifrane can be the starting point for beautiful excursions for hikers and nature lovers: “Circuit des Lacs” or “Circuit des Dayets”.

The refuge waterfall

Also called “cascade of the virgin”, this source is located 3 km from Ifrane. It is an ideal place for relaxation and picnics with the family.

The lion’s place

A place where all Ifrane visitors meet. Carved out of the rock, a lion rests, meditatively, in a semblance of deep introspection.

It has not ceased to intrigue visitors for decades. Powerful, impassive, with impressive dimensions: 7 m. long, 1.50 m wide and 2 m high, inscribed in legend, the most diverse rumors have been circulating for a very long time according to which it is the work of prisoners, legionaries, individuals of various nationalities.

Source Ras El Ma

Located 5 km from Ifrane on the road connecting the city to Azrou, this site is home to the basins of the national center for fish farming and rearing of Atlas trout alvins.

Moudemame, on the paths of beautiful cedars The word “Moudemame” designates hawthorn. On the site is a natural hawthorn orchard which, when in bloom, offers a colorful view. Here, the forest is home to many forest species, of which cedar is the keystone. This majestic tree, known as Idel or Begnoun, is a species endemic to Morocco.

Cedar wood is popular as a lumber and utility. The essential oils of cedar wood, widely used in pharmacology, are renowned for their therapeutic virtues. This is why a grandiose “Maison de la Cédraie” building is located on the site. It is especially dedicated to the Atlas cedar and its socio-cultural values.

The Gouroud Cedar

It takes its name from the French colonel who seconded Lyautey from 1912 to 1914. Located 18 kilometers from Ifrane, it is the oldest of the “Cedrus Atlantica” species in the world (9 centuries). The height of this tree reaching 42 m and a circumference at the base of 9 m.

Today it looks like a huge coat rack. This giant cedar has been dead for a few years.

Ifrane Zaouiat waterfalls

69 km from Ifrane, this listed site offers a magical view, especially when the water is released. This small, isolated village is embellished with a pretty waterfall.

The waters of the Ifrane wadi irrigate the village as well as the crops located upstream of the waterfall. This site of the Zaouia of oued Ifrane is marvelous by the ascent of the beautiful waterfall overlooking the said Zaouia and giving an extraordinary panoramic view of the locality and its surrounding region.

Ifrane national park

A space for discovery and adventure, the Ifrane National Park shines with the diversity of its landscapes, lakes and rivers. Its natural resources make it a tourist center of excellence.

Mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife … in Ifrane National Park, nature appears in all its forms, according to the seasons. Spread over 125,000 ha and occupying almost the entire western portion of the Middle Atlas Central, the park is an environment with airy relief, medium mountains made up mainly of limestones or dolomites with, locally, schists or volcanic covers such as the plateau of Ito.

Distinguished by its ecological and biological values, it conceals a flora and a fauna as diverse as original with more than 1015 species, of vascular plants (more than 22% of the whole of the Moroccan vascular flora), 209 species of ‘birds (approximately 50% of the avifauna reported in Morocco.) including 103 nesting species (5 species of global importance such as the red kite, the marbled teal, the bald ibis as well as an abundant avifauna such as: shelducks, casarcas, and other coots) and 31 species of mammals including the magot monkey, barbaric squirrel and rozet macroscelid.

The Park also encompasses a set of biodiverse sites of remarkable rarity (Oued de Tizguite, Val d’Ifrane: the sources Vittel, Lac Dayet Aoua, Dayet Hachlaf, Dayet Ifrah, Dayet Iffer, Aguelmam Afenourir and Aguelmam Tifounassine, in addition the ski resort in Michlifen).

A space of freedom and discovery, the park is a favorite tourist hub for hikers, fishermen, lovers of outdoor activities and sportsmen looking for strong emotions and a serene atmosphere. The forest massifs and the wooded volcanic reliefs overhanging vast bare spaces (causses and karstic plateaus), are available for hiking, horse riding and mountain biking.

The springs, rivers, and mountain lakes (aguelmane, dayet) attract birdwatching and fishing enthusiasts. The massifs, covered with snow in winter, are the joy of skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

On the territory of the National Park, which extends over the territory of 8 rural municipalities and an urban municipality in the province of Ifrane, you can also discover a Berber population renowned for its rich culture and its diverse and ancestral traditions.

The natural space offered by the park also constitutes a privileged ground for any type of pastoral activity, thanks to the vast high meadows, to the numerous springs and to the great forest wealth of this place.

This space is just as renowned for its functions as a water tower as for those for producing lumber, crafts and sheepmeat: the famous Timahdite sheep.

Michlifen

A corner of paradise for nature lovers. 17 km from Ifrane and one hour from Fez and Meknes, Michlifen, whose altitude exceeds 2000 m, is a snow-covered volcanic crater of the Middle atlas Causse.

A fascinating route awaits geology enthusiasts, through these remains of ancient volcanoes craters which allow them to discover a magnificent landscape of forest, cedars, and turbulent geology.

On the edge of the cedar forest, the beautiful ski resort continues to attract thousands of winter and mountain sports enthusiasts.

The Middle Atlas was the first to see skiers evolve in Morocco. And it was in 1936 that the Ski Club of Ifrane was created.

==> Book a hotel in Ifrane.

Habri & Hibri stations

At km 27, leave a small road on the left towards Jbel Hebri on which a second ski resort is built. At an altitude of 2100m, the resort offers two black runs from 50 to 200m.

At km 48, you arrive in Azrou, the starting point for many hikes. From Azrou, the road towards Meknes follows the edge of a plateau nicknamed Belvédère d’Ito. From there you can continue to the Central Middle Atlas.

Azrou, at the crossroads

Azrou (the Rock in Berber) is a beautiful summer resort located at about 1200m altitude, on the edge of the most beautiful cedar forest in Morocco, and the most preserved.

The city has a kasbah built in 1684 by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl. For those who make the road between Meknes and Azrou via El Hajeb, it is imperative to take a short break 15 km away, at the “ Belvédère d’Ito ”, to enjoy a beautiful view of the colorful mountains. Ocher yellow.

Also worth seeing, the cedar forest and its monkeys as well as the artisanal cooperative on the road towards Khenifra. The surroundings of Azrou are favorite places for hiking, wild boar, partridge, or hare hunting. You can also enjoy pike or trout fishing

Dayet Aoua

Morocco’s most famous lake is located 17.5 km north of Ifrane. Its surface area (140 ha) varies according to the seasons. It is surrounded by a low damp meadow and woodlands of holm oaks and cedars. The submerged and emerged flora is abundant and very diverse.

To conclude Ifrane and its region are a heaven of greenery and pure air! A variety of sporting activities are available to you in a setting of rich and unexpected landscapes! Between its many lakes and its waterfalls of singular beauty, you will have the opportunity to flourish in an environment particularly conducive to sports activities of all kinds, and relaxing environment to meditate.

Tags Fez, Ifrane, Meknes

Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains Sea & Beaches

Winter Tourism: The Best Things To Do in Morocco

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date November 5, 2021
1 Comment on Winter Tourism: The Best Things To Do in Morocco

Winter Tourism in Morocco

Visiting Morocco in Winter is Always a Good Idea and This is Why:

Few in the world are the countries which can claim as much diversity as Morocco. Geological, landscape, floristic, faunistic diversity, diversity of cultural heritages, human diversity.

From the ranges of the Atlas to those of the Rif, from an Atlantic coast to a Mediterranean shore, from sandy beaches to small isolated rocky coves, from the vast golden dunes of the south to the green oases, in Morocco, nature has left free run to its imagination.

A country with a thousand facets, different each season; land of atmosphere bringing together in its kingdom the greatest dreams and the most beautiful traditions of the Orient; land of encounters, of flavors; country where hospitality is king, Morocco will surprise all those who have the curiosity to go beyond the marked roads to discover its true nature.

Skiing in Morocco: North Africa’s Atlas Mountains (CNN)

The return of gray skies and rain often rhymes with a cooking moment at home, wrapped in a blanket with an herbal tea in hand.

The rainy season pushes many people to take refuge at home even during the holidays, not in Morocco a country that is full of several beautiful regions that visitors can discover during all seasons.

Take height:

The mountain is everywhere in Morocco. To the north, the Rif is an imposing mountain range stretching from the eastern tip of Tangier to the territories of the Rif tribes on the Algerian border.

Beautiful coastal towns and magnificent landlocked villages punctuate this chain of reliefs which culminates at an altitude of 2000 meters.

1. Djebel Moussa/ Jbel Musa

Dejbel Moussa is a mountain in northern Morocco which rises to more than 850 meters in altitude. Hiking and climbing enthusiasts will certainly find what they are looking for as they can enjoy a panoramic view of the Strait of Gibraltar from the top.

For your stay, you can rent accommodation from locals or stay in a hostel. The city of Tangier is about thirty kilometers from Djebel Moussa.

The valleys of the Atlas Mountains:

More impressive the Atlas and its high snow-capped peaks cross the country from North to South, its name evokes the Greek myth of the giant Atlas condemned by Zeus to support the celestial vault on his shoulders.

Nicknamed the “roof of Morocco”, it is the highest massif in North Africa and delimits Saharan Morocco from Atlantic and Mediterranean Morocco.

To the adventure!

Country of mountains, Morocco offers sportsmen and amateurs alike, all types of hikes. In winter, good equipment quickly becomes essential, and board sports, surfing and skiing, can judiciously enhance a muscular trekking.

The most proficient can try to climb the summits to reach “the roof of Morocco” and offer a fabulous view of the whole country.

2. Ifrane

Ifrane Morocco — Ifrane, Morocco (Unsplash)

Ifrane is the Morocco of the heights, part of the Atlas and its majestic reliefs.

Perched at an altitude of 1,650 meters, the city surprises the traveler. It contributes to the wealth of experiences that can be lived in Morocco.

There, lakes with a calm wave, waterfalls which pour their cold waters into the valleys. All around, the largest cedar forest in the world. These trees raise their solemn silhouettes on the slopes of the Middle Atlas which they cover with a mantle of greenery.

The purity of Ifrane’s air depends on a delicate balance. To preserve it, the city is enclosed in a natural park. Walking there is a delight; you will enjoy browsing these beautiful regions. The hiking trails are numerous, among the most beautiful in the country.

A rich and varied fauna accompanies you in your walks. At the bend of a path, it is a macaque which amuses you with its antics; further on, in the background, proud and fearful, a Barbary deer is watching you.

Ifrane is also a heritage. The city is its own spectacle that a little train allows you to discover. On board, you cross some of the cleanest streets in the world, you discover a typical regional craft: there, upholsterers spin their works; here, a basket weaving cane stems; there, finally, a pottery or Thuja wood object shop lined with charming trinkets.

Ifrane is all this, a “little Switzerland”, with luxury hotels, in the middle of Morocco. Something to disorient you, that’s for sure!

What to do in Ifrane to keep yourself active?

In this little corner of Morocco, you can explore immense cedar forests during a trek on foot or on a horseback ride! Climb to the trees and admire the unique landscapes of the region during a tree climbing session.

On an ATV or quad, explore the countless areas of lakes and shelters!

Without forgetting of course to put on your skis! Enjoy the excellent air quality of the Ifrane region during a regenerating stay!

Ifrane and its region are a heaven of greenery and pure air! A variety of sporting activities are available to you in a setting of rich and unexpected landscapes! Between its many lakes and its waterfalls of singular beauty, you will have the opportunity to flourish in an environment particularly conducive to sports activities of all kinds.

Hunting aficionados will be able to practice their passion in the heart of the largest cedar forest in the world! Fish or explore in a pedal boat the lakes of Daït Aoua, Afenourir or Dayet Hachlaf.

And to end these holidays in style, you can even put on skis! Indeed, in winter, the ski resorts of Michlifen or Jbel Hibri give you the opportunity to set off on snowy slopes, by ski or sled!

3. Azrou

City of a thousand and one forests with many butterflies, Azrou, 89 kilometers south of Fez will reconcile you with nature in winter.

Once there, you are invited to visit Cèdre Gouraud, a kind of forest where there are centenarians’ trees.

If you are feeling adventurous and want to explore up and down the mountains and the Azrou forest, then you should definitely stay overnight at the camping area.

It is guaranteed to be really safe, and a lot of tourists will be camping too, so you are never alone. The Milky Way is also beautiful at night.

4. Toubkal National Park

The summit of Toubkal mountain (Unspash)

In the High Atlas, Toubkal National Park has an exceptional diversity of populations. On the advice of a mountain guide, the ascent can be done in two days with one night in a bivouac or in a refuge.

5. Aït Bouguemez

Still unknown to the general public, Aït Bouguemez is one of the most paradisiacal destinations in Morocco.

Nicknamed the Happy Valley, the Kasbah is popular with thrill seekers who can enjoy a variety of activities on site, such as canyoning, hiking and climbing.

Visitors who wish to enjoy a break of relaxation and change of scenery can also find what they are looking for in Aït Bouguemez, where they can enjoy a stay under the sign of relaxation and discover the M’goun massif in the central High Atlas.

The diversity of the fauna and flora of Aït Bouguemez attracts tourists from all parts of the world coming to know more closely the traditions of the local inhabitants.

6. Marrakech

Dream palaces, luxury hotels, splendid riads, and social events, Marrakech deploys its opulence without inhibition. All the greats of this world come to recharge their batteries and experience the magic of the bewitching ocher city.

A city both mystical and hectic, sparkling with life, Marrakech reveals its splendor to tourists eager to discover its art galleries, exhibitions, celebrities, luxurious palaces, and trendy nights. It’s thrilling magic works divinely, as proof, we always come back to it.

In winter, you can enjoy the ski resort of Oukaimeden, Visit the Ourika valley which sinks into the first foothills of the Atlas: a beautiful green valley surrounded by adobe villages which is suitable for hiking foot.

The picturesque village of Oukaïmeden is located 78 km south of Marrakech, in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains. The village is perched at 2,630 meters (8,530 feet), while the winter sports area clings to the edge of Jebel Attar Mountain and has a maximum elevation of 3,260 meters.

A single chairlift takes you to the top, where six descents await you. There is also a nursery area, a ski school, a family toboggan area, and a series of intermediate trails served by four ski lifts.

If you want an unconventional way, you can always climb to the top of the trail on one of the resort’s donkeys.

7. Amanar Lands

Hanging on like Tarzan, pulling like Robin Hood, and warming up by the fire – all can be done in Amanar Lands.

Located in an Amazigh region not far from Marrakech, this hotel-park complex at the foot of the Atlas Mountains is not to be missed.

The Park offers a wide variety of activities, including horseback riding, archery, Amazigh crafts, zip lining, swimming, and mountain biking, to fill your vacation agenda.

Amanar Zipline

8. Mazagan Beach and Gold Resort

If the stunning scenery, and historic charm are not enough to keep you entertained on a winter evening in Morocco, you can always relax in the many nightlife entertainment venues that Morocco has to offer.

To stay warm, what could be better than a short weekend at the Mazagan of El Jadida?

At Mazagan Beach and Gold Resort, located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, is the Mazagan Casino, where you can spend an entertaining evening.

If you’re feeling lucky, indulge yourself in poker, roulette, punto banco and blackjack and over 400 slot machines.

Read : Where To Celebrate The New Year’s Eve in Morocco

To conclude:

Winter seasons are made for hiking, climbing, skiing seekers, for glamorous night events lovers, and for those who simply love chilling on the sofa, in a balcony pointed to a marvelous sight.

The millennial kingdom of Morocco seems to know it all and is calling you to be wiser enough to let him guide you, to one of the best days and memories that we all seek at least once in our lifetime.

Tags El Jadida, Ifrane, Marrakech, Marrakesh

Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism Sea & Beaches

This is Why You Should Visit Essaouira (Immediately)

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date November 3, 2021
2 Comments on This is Why You Should Visit Essaouira (Immediately)

Visit Essaouira

Visit Essaouira : The Full Tourism Guide

Essaouira awakens, with delicacy, the artist who sleeps in everyone. Its azure horizon, its pinkish ocher fortifications and its white houses with blue frames form a perfect watercolor. Behind its ramparts, protected from the wind, a timeless world. Here, the architects of the past stimulate the creativity of new generations.

Strong and refined, the beautiful sorcerer shows off her atypical charm. Cannons pointed towards the ocean, it always impresses the visitor. But by getting closer to the soul of this emblematic city, you let yourself be captivated by its subtleties. The sweet scent of thuja wood guides us towards its craftsmen with precise gestures. Around a table, green tea in hand, we discover conviviality.

Known for its culture and its festival, the city of trade winds also delight surfers from all walks of life. A popular seaside resort, Essaouira attracts thousands of vacationers every year.

More than a city, Essaouira is a muse to which we remain attached.

The history of Essaouira

Sheltered by the trade winds, the archipelago was discovered by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC. Used as an anchorage by the Carthaginian navigator Hanno in 500 BC, it served, for several centuries, as an outpost on the road to Cape Verde and Ecuador.

In the Middle Ages, the Portuguese established an important trading post and named the city Mogador. In 1541, the Saadians took control of it before leaving it in the hands of the Alaouites.

The city took the name of Essaouira with the construction of the new city by the sultan Mohamed Ibn Abdallah in 1765. It then experienced a great period of prosperity and remained a high place of trade with foreigners until the beginning of the 20th century.

Today, Essaouira is a haven of peace that inspires artists from all over the world. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its medina has gone through the ages and seems protected from the ravages of time.

Behind the ramparts hides a luminous city with its entangled alleys, its small squares and its whitewashed houses. Mythical backdrop to Orson Welles’s film “Othello”, it influences and captivates filmmakers.

Ridley Scott recreates Jerusalem there for the film “Kingdom of Heaven”.

Paradise of Jimmy Hendrix and Hippie musicians of the 70s, she still lives to the rhythm of Gnaoua music.

The unmissable places in Essaouira :

Discover enchanting places by following in the footsteps of these artists of yesterday and today … During a walk in the medina, you will be struck by the architectural and decorative richness of its buildings.

You will discover splendid houses of consuls, a mixture of Moroccan and European style.

At the corner of an alley, you will undoubtedly meet a painter from here or elsewhere trying to capture the beauty of the place on canvas. Numerous workshops and art galleries maintain the artistic renown of the city.

Formerly a coveted city, Essaouira is protected by an important defensive device made of fortified bastions. Built to support the port, the Sqala is decked out with cannons.

You can walk along its ramparts and enjoy a sublime view of the island of Mogador and the fishing port. Connecting the city to the port, the Porte de la Marine impresses with its grandeur. Erected in 1769, this monumental freestone building is adorned with two columns and a triangular pediment.

Protecting the city from attacks from the ocean, the northern stronghold was a vast artillery platform surrounded by crenellated walls. The terrace of this bastion offers a unique view of the medina and the Sqala.

The Azure horizon of Essaouira

On the Atlantic coast, facing the medina, the Mogador seaside resort revives the tourist spirit of the city. An integral part of the Plan Azur aiming to develop intelligent tourism, it has numerous infrastructures perfectly integrated into their environment.

Authenticity, sport and culture are the key words of this project. Luxury hotels and charming villas will welcome vacationers in an idyllic setting. On foot or by bike, you are invited to take the paths and admire the gulls that have found refuge on the resort’s seven artificial lakes.

At each stage of the walk, you will be able to observe the city of Essaouira, the dunes and the sea from a different angle. A place of rest and leisure, the Mogador resort has three golf courses respecting the natural topography of the site with its dunes, sand and vegetation. Everything is done to meet your wishes.

Tennis or golf to keep fit, the spa to relax and luxury boutiques for shopping.

The main places:

Riads in the heart of the medina

To live fully to the rhythm of the Souiris, nothing beats the charm of a Riad. In the heart of the medina, the traditional accommodation has been renovated to offer passing guests all modern comforts.

The Riad is built around a central patio bathed in light which serves as a place of life and relaxation. Sometimes decorated with a fountain, orange trees or olive trees, it turns into a shady garden.

On the upper floors, accessible by the interior passageways, you will discover your room decorated in the purest Moroccan tradition and offering all modern comforts. The terrace with a 360 ° view is the ideal place to admire the medina.

The souks of Essaouira

What would Essaouira be without its souks! A must for Moroccans and tourists alike, the souk is a lively and colorful place. Between foodstuffs and artisanal products, each souk in the medina offers a magical and exotic spectacle. The scents of spices in shimmering colors and the scents of worked wood awaken the senses.

The displays of fabrics or silver jewelry are pleasures for the eyes. Stroll between the stalls and you will not leave empty-handed …

Place Moulay Hassan

The beating heart of Essaouira, Place Moulay Hassan is the city’s most lively place. Located inside the medina, not far from the ramparts and the port, this pretty tree-lined square offers an ideal setting to enjoy mint tea.

Sitting on one of its café terraces, you can watch the nonchalant comings and goings of passers-by.

Local gastronomy: prestigious tables and meals at the fishing port

Around a table, sitting on a sofa or an ottoman, we share tagine and couscous (Best Foods to Eat in Morocco). But what makes the reputation of the local gastronomy, it is its fresh fish.

Fishing town, Essaouira, benefits from the best seafood. In the port, open-air cafés invite visitors to taste the freshly caught fish. Impossible not to be tempted by the smells of grilled meats.
In the heart of the medina, gourmets will appreciate the refined cuisine and the magical setting of a few large tables.

In an old house of Caid or in a restored Riad, subtle flavors and sweet scents will invade you. Used in cooking, argan oil is recognized for its multiple virtues, its almond and hazelnut taste will enhance the flavor of your dishes.

The activities you should try in Essaouira:

Thalassotherapy

A true temple of well-being, Essaouira is the ideal place to get back in shape. Several top-of-the-range specialized centers offer relaxing treatments in a soothing setting.

By using various marine elements such as sand, algae and sea water for therapeutic purposes, thalassotherapy helps fight many ailments: heavy legs, back problems, joint and muscle pain, etc. It promotes good health, relaxes the body and calms the mind.

By combining the benefits of the ocean with those of the land of Essaouira, well-being specialists offer the best of natural treatments such as argan oil massages or sea mud and seaweed wraps. . . Programs alternating relaxation, care and physical activities allow you to get back into shape gently.

Watersports and activities

The wind is blowing hard over the bay of Essaouira. If you appreciate the protection of its ramparts, snowboarders, surfers and kiteboarders jump into the water with the greatest pleasure.

In just a few years, the city has become a hotspot for water sports and notably hosts the final stage of the Kiteboard World Cup, an unmissable event for the world’s best kiteboarders.

More and more young people are following the path of these stars of board sports. Several schools offer courses and internships supervised by certified professionals.

There is no shortage of activities on the huge Essaouira beach. Thrill seekers can practice water skiing, jet skiing or even scuba diving.

The festivals of Essaouira:

Gnaoua and World Music Festival

Each year, at the start of summer, Essaouira turns into a temple of music. Hundreds of thousands of festival-goers let themselves be carried away by the throbbing rhythms of Gnaoui music.

The greatest Maalems (masters) Gnaoua transport the audience to mystical cadences and sounds that sometimes lead to trance.

Also welcoming artists from all over the world, this event is a true cultural and musical mix. Open to all, the Gnaoua and World Music Festival is also an opportunity for young local artists to make themselves known to a large audience.

Atlantic Andalusia

This event, which aims to be a Moroccan-Spanish cultural forum with Mediterranean and Latin American dimensions, offers an eclectic program: musical concerts, artistic workshops, conferences, exhibitions … The festival is an opportunity to discover the roots and ramifications of Andalusian memory.

Either you call it Essaouira, Mogador, the city of trade winds will place itself on a major shelf in your vacation memories locker, you just know now that you’re more than ready to book for a once in a lifetime experience.

Tags Essaouira

Desert & Sahara Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains

Gorges of Morocco : The Complete Tourism Guide

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date October 27, 2021
2 Comments on Gorges of Morocco : The Complete Tourism Guide

The Todgha Gorges - The Dades Gorges

Discover the beauty of the Gorges of Morocco : Todgha & Dades

Morocco is the land of a thousand contrasts. With its diversity of landscapes, exceptional cuisine, and breathtaking nature, coupled with an extraordinary cultural and human heritage, Morocco is enticing.

In Morocco, nature has given free rein to its imagination. From the Atlas to the Rif Mountains, from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean shores, from the wide sandy bays to small isolated rocky coves, from the southern large golden dunes to green oasis, the charm is boundless.

From the luxuriant forests to the barren high plains, from the deep wadis to the incomparable caves and gorges , from the lakes and waterfalls to the daunting Kasbahs, Morocco’s wonders lie before you as far as your eye can see, endowed with history and wild beauty.

A Country of unusual landscapes and memorable views, Morocco will surprise those who are curious enough to go beyond its trodden paths to discover its true nature. (Underrated places to visit in Morocco)

Its multiple crafts offer the best traditions culminating in a jealously guarded know-how by generations of craftsmen.

A country rich with flavors, contrasts, unsuspected treasures and new acquaintances, full of throbbing memories in the authentic medinas and the untouched alleys of its cities.

A natural enclave, Morocco offers sports and adventure lovers all types of sporting activities including mountain biking excursions, rafting in the upper rivers, canyoning, paragliding and hiking in beautiful deserts and gorges.

Dades Gorge :

A twisting piece of blacktop known by locals as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” leads to the famous Dades Gorge in the beautiful countryside of Morocco.

Whether you consider them one gorge or several, the scenic valleys of the Dades River are lined with hundreds of Islamic cities, citadels, palm trees, and desert sands, which make it one of the most historic roads in the country.

Passing by Dades Gorges within Morocco vacations, Remember to visit:

Mhamid (Moroccan desert like Merzouga)
Azrou
Rissani
Fez

Travelers say it’s the rolling red hills of the Dades Gorges (Gorges du Dadès) that are truly worth the trip.

After traveling switchbacks by car, visitors can wander the quiet paths of this scenic destination on foot and enjoy a steaming cup of Moroccan mint tea at the top of the gorge.

Breathtaking vistas and uninterrupted views of rolling red rocks make for a memorable resting place and quiet escape before starting on a return trip to the city.

What to do in Dades Gorges ?

While you stay in your hotel, there are many things and I highly recommend you can do many different hikes either by yourself or with an experienced local guide.

Once you arrive and settle in your room you can go for a short walk through the serpent zig-zag road and from the top, you can be enjoyed by the amazing view of the river and the valley together.

Another walk you can choose is to go 27 km through the gorge with a guide, this might be around 3 or 4 hours.

In case you have plenty of time, a 3-day-walk with a guide to Todgha Gorge may be an unforgettable experience in life where you can go deep into wild paths and see the nomadic lifestyle of Berber people.

Also, walking alongside the river is another activity recommended to find relaxation with the sound of the water and the enormous red walls of stone where you may find some shepherd guiding his flock of sheep.

This is very authentic to see in Morocco. You have a lot of things to do in Dades gorges here are some of them:

Explore Fossils and Rock Formations: Valley of Human Bodies

However strange it may sound, exploring through different types and sizes of rocks in Dades Valley is an experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Once submerged into a deep sea, the place is full of remnants, remains, rocks, and fossils that date back to hundreds of millions of years ago.

At the very start of the valley, there are geological formations referred to as Monkey Feet and Monkey Toes. These formations earn the unusual moniker from their inexplicable wind-worn silhouette.

A little remote from the Monkey Feet formation is yet another valley known as the “Valley of Human Bodies”! Many starving travelers have died there of hunger and turned into stones, thus earning the valley this grave name.

The high mountains and other geological formations house many fossils, especially those of trilobite which is an arthropod that survived for ages before getting lost by the end of the Permian Period.

Other than the fossils, you will find small rocks with many fossil graphic prints that are every bit as fascinating. To be standing on the rocky land and wondering if it was once the floor of a deep-sea is truly exciting.

A walk Around Sightseeing the Kasbahs of the Valley

Commonly referred to as the Land of a Thousand Kasbahs, Dades Valley is home to many ancient buildings that were built to protect the valley against invasion.

These pinkish square houses create a picturesque variation against the green river and brown bare hills. Many of these houses were built in the 12th century and still stand strong, while others are crumbling down under the weight of time.

Either way, these small fortresses serve as a window for the visitors who want to sneak into the ancient past of the Moroccan lifestyle. The most famous kasbah is Kasbah Amridil, which is located in Skoura.

Skoura Palmeraie – Oasis of 1000 Palms

About an hour and a half away from the Dades Valley is the vast UNESCO-protected palmeraie of Skoura.

Referred to as the “Oasis of 1000 Palms”, it offers a peaceful place with numerous green lush palm groves to rumble around and unwind after a long trip into the rocks and canyons of Dades.

The green covering is enclosed by a 15-mile patchwork of gardens that still use the ancient Cheetara system of locks, levers, and canals to water the plants.

Todgha Gorges :

Located just 48 minutes away from the Dades Valley is the Todgha Gorges that were carved by both Todgha and neighboring Dades Rivers.

This wadi is a series of limestone river canyons that are flanked by as much as 400-meter high walls.

Todgha Gorges offer a hundred hiking trails to set your foot on and get indulged in the extreme sport.

Overlooking the hiking trail are the splendid pink mountains that are tinted green and gold. Stretched across approximately 1,000 feet above, these cliffs create a stunning panoramic view.

To conclude if you are an extreme sport lover, a peaceful environment seeker, or just a normal old fashion tourist, you will definitely be fascinated about what Morocco can offer in terms of geological landscapes especially gorges and canyons, you are more than welcome to visit and pay yourself an amazing life experience.

Tags Dades Gorges, Todgha Gorges

Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains Sea & Beaches

Visit Al Hoceima : The Must-See Places In And Around Al Hoceima

Post author By Sara Yassine
Post date October 10, 2021
2 Comments on Visit Al Hoceima : The Must-See Places In And Around Al Hoceima

The best things to do in Al Hoceima

Al Hoceima, in the northern part of Morocco, is the place to mark when you’re looking for a beach holiday where you can get away from it all.

With breath taking beaches of white sand and its gentle light waves azure Mediterranean waters, Al Hoceima is ideal whether you’re after a relaxing break, something more active or a holiday of exploration.

The town of Al Hoceima, located in the bay of the same name, is a city of blue and white houses perched on cliffs facing the sea, on a slope leading down to the fishing port from the city centre.

This well-known tourist city has the perfect balance of stunning beaches and dramatic mountains. Being the capital of the Al Hoceima province, this Riffian city is a popular summer destination for Europeans wanting to escape to the ocean.

The influence of Spain is visible in this city, founded in 1920 during the years of the Rif War and which still preserves some of the architectural features of the colonial period.

In Mohamed VI Square, the city centre, located on Quemado Beach, is the Melchor de Jovellanos cultural centre, of Spanish ownership, in what used to be the former headquarters of the military command.

Nearby, is the Royal Palace and access to the port and beach, as well as Chiita Park.

To the south, the Plaza del Rif or Florido, the old city centre and Cala Bonita. To the west, the Cebadilla beach.

Al Hoceima is a city dedicated to tourism and fishing. In the summer season, its lively streets are filled with visitors attracted by the beaches and nature of the province.

Every evening, the boats arrive at the port with the daily catch from the sea which is distributed in the markets, restaurants and eating houses around the port and in the city.

The Mediterranean Pearl, as it is affectionately known, is one of the safest cities in Morocco such as Tangier, Agadir … and relies on tourism and the fishing industry to drive its economy.

What brings all the Europeans to Al Hoceima every summer are the beaches and beautiful places to stay while exploring the area.

You can take a boat out and go scuba diving, enjoy a meal at one of the top restaurants, just spend some ‘you time’ at a luxurious spa, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

But it’s not all man made development in the area; much of the area is unspoiled countryside and you should definitely consider visiting the nearby regions, as their are lots of treasures that adventure lovers come in droves to explore.

Al Hoceima City Tour

1. Wild beaches, nature and aquamarine waters

It’s hard to resist the allure of the Mediterranean coast, but when you throw in sunny skies and a small city vibe, Al Hoceima has some of the best beaches to visit in Morocco.

For you, holidays rhyme with relaxation on paradisaical beaches, Al Hoceima, isn’t nicknamed « the Mediterranean pearl » for nothing, thanks to the variety and beauty of its bays, it is the ideal place for you.

The beaches like quemado are considered as one of the most beautiful in the world, You’ll be able to bask in the sun , while admiring the beauty of the natural sites around you.

Admire the mountainous landscapes of the Tala Youssef beach, jump into the turquoise water of the Bades beach or lie down on the fine sand of the Armoud beach.

2. Al Hoceima National Park

Bordered by the waters of the Mediterranean, the natural park of Al Hoceima, cut by high cliffs, presents an outstanding relief that draws the massif of Bokkoyas.

The landscapes are wonderful : green in spring, more sparse during the summer, they bathe in the clear light of the Moroccan sun.

A footpath crosses them which allows you to discover the interior of the park by walk. It is lined with gites and, for several days, you can venture out to discover the local fauna and flora.

In the Moroccan Rif, the Taghzout valley is another amazing spot. Being a hundred kilometres away from Al Hoceima, the magnetic site will invite you to stay longer.

You would be missing out if you didn’t visit this stunning park. Take in the stunning landscapes and visit the 800 year old Mosque with its old Berber village in Adouz.

What better way to embrace the local history and explore the natural beauty of Morocco than here?

Al Hoceima National Park can be accessed from the east, from Izemouren, in the direction of Tafensa, or from Rouadi, 30 kilometres from the city of Al Hoceima, a town known for its souk or Sunday market, Had el Rouadi, and for the Rif folk crafts market based mainly on wicker, clay pottery and traditional wood carving.

Taoussart and Adouz are two douars, or villages, located within the Al Hoceima National Park.

From Rouadi, try to head towards Taoussart. One the way to this small douar one truly starts to get to know the National Park of Al Hoceima. The Bokkoya massif forms an environment with a great variety of native vegetation and animal fauna.

The coastline features a rugged rocky coastline. The limestone massif continues to the sea, forming cliffs that in some cases reach 700 metres high, creating a landscape of great visual richness.

The hiking trails, designed to promote ecotourism in the park, enable visitors to discover coves with crystalline waters hidden among the cliffs.

The 700 step beach, can be reached from Taoussart; a walk between small villages, whitewashed hamlets, fruit trees, forests of carob trees, fig trees, thyme, rosemary, lavender and araar, brings us closer to the cliffs and to the coast, to the Taydywine cove.

The cove of Bousekour is located to the east, closer to Al Hoceima. To the west, the coves of Topoz or Tikkit are not far from Adouz.

3. The beach of Tikkit

The beach of Tikkit, hidden at the foot of the mountain, is a small beach featuring round pebbles.

This is a good place to go diving or snorkelling and to enjoy the rich marine biodiversity of the Mediterranean coast. The marabout of Lala Tikkit or Lala Miomouna is highlighted.

This is only marabout in the area built in honour of a woman, supposedly a holy princess, born on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, who arrived alone to the Kabyle of the Bokkaya, fleeing from war, and who surrendered everything for spiritual life and prayer.

A path among almond trees, prickly pears and palm hearts separates Adouz from the douar of Taunil.

In its rural souk we can find a good sample of the characteristic craftsmanship of the area, including hats, djellabas, clay handicrafts and braided palm leaves. From Taounil, we continue to Torres.

The village is named after the five towers built by the Portuguese on the hilltop at the northern side of the village.
The closeness of the mountains and cliffs and the beaches that surround this small fishing village have made Torres a highly-valued destination for inland tourism in Morocco.

From Torres, it is possible to hike along the coast, following natural paths, until Bades, the second Islamic city built in Morocco, after Nekor. Nowadays, it is possible to visit the remaining ruins of its ancient walls and buildings.

Al Hoceima National Park Route5 Bades beach is a gravel cove facing the rock of Vélez de la Gomera.
Of Spanish sovereignty, this rock measures 260 meters long, between 15 and 100 meters wide and 87 meters high at its highest point.

Among outstanding scenery, the rock is located at one end of Cape Baba surrounded by mountains. Originally, the rock was a small island very close to the coast. An earthquake left the island permanently attached to the mainland in 1930.

The rope that separates Morocco from the Spanish islet is the smallest border in the world, measuring only 85 metres long.

4. Cala Iris

At the western end of the Al Hoceima National Park, no more than five kilometres from Torres, Cala Iris is located, a fishing village nestled in a horseshoe-shaped bay featuring one of the finest beaches on the northern coast of Morocco.

Surrounded by the mountains that conform the park and facing the islets that stand out in the bay, Cala Iris offers a striking landscape.

We reach the part where you can be sure that you had an image of the truly nature of the Al Hoceima region a splendid hinterland with magnificent landscapes in the middle of which is enjoyable to relax, and to challenge your limits There is nothing left but backpacking for your holiday we are waiting to see you soon for a unique lifetime experience.

Read also about Tetouan, one of the best destination in Mediterranean ocean near to El hociema.

Tags Al Hoceima

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