Morocco tours & holidays

The climate in Morocco varies wildly according to the season and area of travel. In the lowlands, the cooler months from October to April are popular among visitors. This time of year is pleasantly warm to hot (around 30°C) during the day and cool to cold (around 15°C) at night.

Winter in the higher regions often brings snow and can therefore get seriously cold, particularly at night.

Tourists flock to the coastline from June to September for fun in the sun, with warm mostly rain-free days. Further inland it can get hot and rain is rare, which makes the best times to travel March to June and September to December.
As a Muslim country, Morocco observes Ramadan. If you are planning to go on holiday in Morocco during Ramadan, it is important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours during this time.

Read more about the best time to visit Morocco.

Read more about the weather in Morocco.

From the Phoenicians who entered Morocco via the Mediterranean in the 6th century BC to the Roman influence of 40 AD and the formation of Islamic Morocco in the years after, Morocco has evolved with the rise and fall of dynasties, formation and dissolution of empires and the birth of new governments, movements and ways of living

Contemporary Morocco is a fascinating mix of Amazigh, Mediterranean, Andalucian and African traditions, which are present in the cuisine, clothing, music, language, customs and lifestyle.

As an Islamic country, most Moroccans are Muslim; however, there are small populations of people who practice Judaism and Christianity. Classic examples of Islamic architecture can be observed all throughout the country and tenets of the Islamic religion are carried out in the customs and lives of the people.

The ninth and holiest of months in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by most in Morocco and is thought to be a time of spiritual rejuvenation. For this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with 3 days of feasting and celebration.

Located in North Africa, Morocco has the best of many worlds within its boundaries. From the sun-drenched beaches of the coast to the sands of the mighty Sahara and the snowy peaks of the High Atlas and Rif Mountains, Morocco has great variety in its landscapes and terrain. This combination of desert, woodlands, forest, mountain steppe and grasslands ensures a wide diversity of flora and fauna within the country.

Between the nationally popular dishes like tajine to the regional specialities like r’fissa, Moroccan cuisine is full of flavour. The main ingredients used across Moroccan cuisine are meats, including chicken and lamb, vegetables and fruits of olives, apricots, prunes, accompaniments like couscous and spices of turmeric, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and cumin.

Things to try in Morocco

1. Tajine

These slow-cooked stews are synonymous with Moroccan cooking. Chicken, olive and citrus are well-known favourites, but there are endless variations using different meats, vegetables and seasonings.

2. Couscous

Forget instant cous cous and try the real deal in Morocco. Often served with vegetables and meat, regional varieties sometimes also include everything from sweet raisins to spicy harissa or smoky almonds.

3. Fresh fruit

Morocco has an amazing array of fruit available in the markets, shops and juice bars. Choose from bananas, mangoes, oranges, avocados or peaches - eat fresh or get them whipped up in a juice.

4. Mint tea

While travelling through Morocco you'll probably drink more sweet mint tea than ever before. Offered as a gesture of hospitality when visiting someone's home or shop, it's considered impolite to refuse, so accept graciously.

Read more about what to eat in Morocco.

Read more about what to drink in Morocco.

1. Marrakech

From cultural hubs like the Djemaa el-Fna public square to the quieter corners of Le Jardin Secret, Marrakech is a city to get joyfully lost in. Barter for wares at the souks, soak in the views of nearby Bahia and Badi Palaces, then sample freshly squeezed juice by the bazaar – it’s a city of endless experiences.

2. Sahara

The Sahara is a must for any visitors to Morocco. Here, it’s just you, the sand and the stars. Arrive in time to watch the sun set across the sand dunes, then tuck into a desert camp for a night of music and dance around the fire.

3. Essaouira

The name 'Essaouira' means image, appropriate since its charm is undeniable. Within the stone ramparts, you'll find art galleries, wood workshops and whitewashed houses with bright blue shutters. Portuguese, British and Jewish influences all mingle in this artist's town.

4. Fes

Fes is the cultural heart of Morocco and home to some of its most iconic sights. Feel every sense come alive in the medina. Shops, dye pits and mosques all vie for space and you're as likely to see a donkey as a car.

5. High Atlas Mountains

The mountains are best explored at the ground level by foot or bicycle. Travel through Amazigh villages, up along crop terraces, down through lush valleys and past orchards, goats and Moroccan rural life. The seriously fit can tackle Mount Toubkal for incredible views.

6. Todra Gorge

Mighty cliffs and deep green valleys await in Todra Gorge. Set out on foot and weave through farmlands and Amazigh villages or enjoy the quieter side of Morocco as you lounge by the palm oasis – with views like these, you won’t want to stay inside.

7. Moulay Idriss

The small Medina of ancient Moulay Idriss was once forbidden to non-Muslims. Now, it’s a pleasure to explore as the faithful gather to pay homage to the founding father of Islam in Morocco at the 8th-century mausoleum.

8. Ait Benhaddou

Perfectly preserved, this is one of Morocco's most picturesque kasbahs. Centuries ago, it was a stop for caravans as they carried salt across the Sahara. Today, it is inhabited only by a handful of families and the odd film crew.

9. Casablanca

The very name conjures up images of war-time romance. But the real romance of Casablanca must be its French influences and the beautiful Hassan II mosque, the largest in Morocco.

10. Volubilis

Do some time travel and visit the ancient hilltop city of Volubilis, one of the Roman Empire's most remote bases. The ruins here are beautifully preserved and it's easy to believe you've stepped into the 2nd or 3rd century.

11. Rabat

Rabat is Morocco's lively capital. Its history is long and colourful, having been host to Roman settlements, pirates, and more recently the Moroccan parliament. Stroll through the Old Quarter or enjoy views over the Atlantic Ocean from Kasbah des Oudaias.

12. Chefchaouen

You might recognise this city from the famous photos of its bright blue buildings. Set against a wide valley and tucked between two peaks in the Rif Mountains, much of Chefchaouen was recreated by Andalusian refugees escaping the Reconquista, so it might remind you of the hills of Spain.

13. Tangier

The coastal town of Tangier is the gateway between the Mediterranean and Africa. Enjoy fresh seafood by the port, watch the sunset over the Atlantic or visit the Caves of Hercules.

The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops, hotels and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash.

ATMs are easily found in large cities and airports, although they are less common in rural and remote areas. When travelling out of the city, be prepared by having enough cash, as ATMs aren't always an option.