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Morocco's intoxicating blend of Arabic, African and European influences has attracted travellers for generations. It is an incredible place - there is something for everyone.
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The Imperial Cities
For many, its greatest charm lies in the imperial cities, such as Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Rabat. Morocco is certainly home to an astonishingly rich architectural tradition - medieval towns, Berber fortresses, beautiful mosques and Roman ruins fascinate even the most well traveled visitor. Spend lazy afternoons exploring the labyrinth alleys of the souq markets.
The red city of Marrakech, nestling in the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains, has long been one of North Africa's most popular destinations. The focal point is the main square, where you can find traditional Moroccan 'nightlife' - storytellers, snake charmers, food stalls and herbalists. Pick up bargains galore, sit and sip peppermint tea, or simply relax in the local hammam - a communal steam bath where you can get a massage for next to nothing - perfect to ease those weary muscles after a few days on the road!
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The Sahara
Where else would you find snow-capped peaks and vast expanses of desert within one border? The solitude of the Saharan dunes is the predominant attraction for others; whether on a camel trek or camping in an oasis, a night under the stars can blow your mind! Once through the Atlas mountains you can head through the extraordinary landscape of date palm oases and Casbahs to reach the edge of the Sahara. These valleys were the old caravan routes that stretched from Marrakech and Fes out across Sahara to Timbuktu, Niger and old Sudan, carrying gold, slaves and salt well into the nineteenth century. The experience is quite awe-inspiring - with the impressive landscape, huge skies and spookily still atmosphere.
The Coast
If pure 'holiday' is your main agenda, why not head straight for one of the sandy beaches of the Atlantic Coast and clock in a few regenerative days of sun and water sports.
There are thousands of km of Atlantic coast and dozens of good spots for a beach holiday. While Agadir is an up-market resort for Europeans, Essaouira is a laid-back place favoured by wind surfers and backpackers. Then there's Asilah, a pretty and comparatively prosperous spot featuring a small and large Portuguese built medina set on a broad sweep of beach.
Trekking
There is excellent trekking to be done in the Atlas mountains. The High, Middle and Anti-Atlas Mountain ranges have huge hiking potential. Mount Toukbal is theoretically a '2-day easy climb' at Easter time. Vast areas of these isolated regions remain the sole preserve of the Berber tribes people and their animals - a day or two in a hill village will be an experience not to be forgotten.
The PeopleThe overriding impression of Moroccans is as open, uninhibited and extraordinarily hospitable, but being ignorant of cultural differences can have a negative impact on your time there. You should be aware that as Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country you should take care to cover up, especially women (head scarves, kaftans etc are all useful items to take). Flashing too much flesh will inevitably bring unwanted attention. As with any overseas travel, being a tourist will make you the target for every salesperson, shop owner and tour operator in the region, dealt with correctly this is all part of the fantastic Moroccan experience. We have heard many stories from previous hitchers of amazing displays of generosity from Moroccans they have met, and many hitchers have struck up lasting friendships.
“Not only is the hitch itself an amazing adventure, but
Lizzie Gleek,
