Morocco

Bordered by sea, dominated by mountains and deserts, Morocco is a land of hidden oases, green valleys and the high passes of the Atlas Mountains.

Morocco offers a hugely varied travel experience, travelling through the ages from ancient ruins of the Greek and Roman empires to a far older world: the timeless environment of desert nomads tracking the Saharan sands on chains of camels, or subsistence Berber farmers of the Atlas Mountains, herding their goats in some of the most beautiful landscapes ever imagined. The country of Morocco gives visitors the chance to travel back in time to a gentler age, of hospitality and mint tea, served with ceremony on traditional carpets, as well as offering the more sophisticated comforts of the 21st century.

MARRAKECH

Close to the foothills of the snow-covered High Atlas Mountains, the historic ochre-red walled city of Marrakech offers palaces, gardens, bustling souks and the spectacle of the Djemaa-el Fna Square. Experience a Berber breakfast in the village of Asni and view the soaring peaks of the High Atlas Mountains on a guided trek, just an hour away from the city of Marrakech.

FES

Visit historic Fes, the oldest and greatest of Morocco’s Imperial cities, with its old medina, souks and the medieval walled town of Fes al Jedid. From here also enjoy visits to the ghostly ruins of the lost Roman city of Volubilis and the Imperial city of Meknes.

THE SOUTH AND THE ATLANTIC COAST

130 miles from Marrakech, Ouarzazate is one of the last outposts before the Sahara. Three hours by road over the Djebel Sahro Mountains, see the amazing canyon precipices of the Draa Valley and arrive to the little oasis town of Zagora, a great base to explore the surrounding landscapes. An hour inland from Agadir lies the ancient walled town of Taroudant. On a sandy breeze-swept bay on Morocco’s southern Atlantic coast lies Essaouira. This tranquil and picturesque little town is part-Moroccan, part-European and offers a total contrast to inland Morocco.

Flights and Facts:

Fly to: Marrakech (British Airways - daily). Flying time: 3 hrs 25 mins direct. Fly to: Agadir (British Airways - Wed, Fri, Sun; Royal Air Maroc - daily) Flying time: 3 hrs 45 mins direct. Fly to: Fes (Royal Air Maroc - daily) Flying time: 5 hrs 45 mins - via Casablanca with a change of planes. Fly to: Casablanca (British Airways - daily, Royal Air Maroc - daily) Flying time: 3 hrs 15 mins - direct.

Time difference:

GMT.

Visa requirements:

Not required. Health requirements: No mandatory vaccinations required. Best time to visit: Mar-Jun, Sep-Nov.