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Why go? It's colourful, friendly and exotic with a fascinating mix of Arab, Islamic, Berber, African and European influences. Spectacular landscapes range from miles of unspoilt beaches to magnificent snow-capped mountains, from lush river valleys to vast tracts of desert, as well as labyrinthine walled medieval cities and Berber fortresses. A wealth of beautiful handicrafts that can be picked up for a song – and a ritual bout of haggling – in the heaving city souks. Traditional townhouses (known as riads) and kasbahs beautifully restored to create hidden guesthouses, varying from luxurious to comfortably basic. Delicious home-cooked tagines and couscous. The promise of year-round sunshine and warmth and all within 4 hours flying time from northern Europe. Any downsides? For shoppers, assorted touts and unofficial guides can plague your every step. However, in recent years undercover tourist police in Marrakech have greatly reduced the problem. Road conditions call for particular care and experience, especially in the south – more because of others' inattention than your own. Be prepared for long distances if going to the desert. English is not always spoken, especially in the High Atlas (being able to speak French is very useful). Heat in July and August can be debilitating. As a muslim country, be prepared to dress respectfully, go without alcohol and slow down to a relaxed 'inshallah' kind of pace. A series of terrorist attacks took place on May 16 2003 in Casablanca, in which more than 40 people died. The Foreign Office states that in the light of this you should be extra vigilant and avoid crowds and public places frequented by foreigners. See FCO latest advice. Current weather/time: In Marrakech:  |
Activities * Trekking: excellent opportunities from short walks to 2-10 day treks in the High Atlas and Rif Mountains. Climb north Africa's highest mountain Jebel Toubkal (4,165m) in 2 days (1hr from Marrakech) * Horse Riding: explore the High Atlas mountains on horse back on guided excursions ranging from 1hr to 5 days with stays in Berber houses * Camel Trekking: excursions with camels, tents and 4WDs are organised around Erfoud and Zagora, on the fringes of the Sahara desert. * Windsurfing and kitesurfing: catch the wind at Essaouira, one of Africa's top spots (2 hrs from Marrakech) * Shopping: Haggle over carpets, kilims, babouches (traditional slippers), ceramics and basketwork in the souks of Marrakech and Fes. Serious weekend shoppers should consider the Tangier Revisited trip. * Skiing: Oukaimeden in the Ourika Valley, (Dec-Feb), about 1 hr from Marrakech, is the ski resort in the High Atlas, but don't expect European standards. * Cultural insights: Fes and Marrakech are Morocco's most intoxicating cities. Hike in the High Atlas to enjoy the hospitality of remote Berber villages. * Driving: follow breathtaking roads through rugged mountain passes, palm oases, fortified kasbah settlements, and stunning gorges that riddle the central parts of the country. The energetic can go by mountain bike. * Golf: there are 3 well-kept 18-hole golf courses on the outskirts of Marrakech, all reasonably priced. |
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