Morocco

There is no shortage of attractions or outdoor recreation when visiting Morocco. The country’s attractions offer an endless array of things to do and sights to see for any discerning traveller. A melting pot of different cultures, Morocco boasts a long and ancient history and offers a timeless experience in the heart of the desert. Major attractions in Morocco include the Sahari Desert, Erg Chebbi, the Atlas and Rif Mountains, the Majorelle Botanical Garden in Marrakech, and Dayet Srji.

Safari-goers can seek out Merzouga, located in the heart of the Sahara Desert, and provides a dreamy paradise for the curious traveller. Nearby, Dayet Srji—a seasonal salt lake—attracts an incredible number of migratory and desert birds, including Egyptian nightjars and flamingos, ideal for avid bird watchers. Furthermore, camel rides at sunset and sunrise are not to be missed as the views of the endless golden sands are rivalled by very little.

Apart from the main attraction of the Sahara Desert, Morocco is also an adventure into a timeless world of contrasts. From coastal villages and vibrant towns that hug hillsides to secluded desert outposts defended by ancient forts—this intriguing country is a melting pot of the African and Arabian worlds steeped in age-old customs.

The wildlife of Morocco is as wild and wavering as the ocean. The vast golden deserts are home to the likes of the Dorcas gazelle—the smallest gazelle in the world—as well as the Fennec fox, also the smallest fox in the world. Other desert dwellers include the golden jackal, the screwhorn antelope, rodents, and the addax. In contrast, the Atlas and Rif Mountains provide rich habitats for the social Barbary macaques, mountain gazelles, lynx, and the endangered Barbary sheep. These sheep are protected in a preserve in the High Atlas mountains, where the critically endangered Barbary leopard lives—the last population in North Africa.

Along the coast of Morocco, safari-goers can expect to spot dolphins and porpoises, as well as the extremely endangered Mediterranean monk seal. With only approximately 500 left, they are one of the most endangered mammals in the world. For the avid birders, there are about 210 bird species in Morocco, with a further 11 that threatened or endangered. Bird species include the Egyptian nightjar, woodpeckers, flamingos, spoonbills, and storks.

The accommodation options in Morocco are endless and suit any type of traveller. From luxury resorts with all-inclusive packages, eco-lodges, and exciting glamping tents in the heart of the desert to self-catering holiday rentals and the ever-alluring riads. Morocco is a well-developed north African country with a strong focus on tourism, so travellers can expect easy access to major attractions, airports, and modern amenities and cities.

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For the most part, Morocco is a year-round destination. However, the varying regions of the country, which include the coast, desert, and the mountains, boast different climates. The best time of year to visit very much depends on the region of the country, but it’s safe to say that April and May are ideal as the weather is mostly dry and warm.

During winter—from November to February—the south experiences mild temperatures, while the northern parts of Morocco are wet and cloudy, with the High Atlas Mountains retaining now until as late as July.

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