Introduction
Morocco is one of Africa's most exciting and accessible destinations. Much mythologised, the country and its main attractions are rightly feted as examples of the exotic. Less than ten miles from mainland Europe, a quick ferry ride across the Strait of Gibraltar, it's a world of bustling souks, gorgeous beaches, spectacular mountain ranges and the eternal sands of the Sahara.
Morocco holidays offer visitors a vast range of potential attractions and travel in Morocco is perhaps easier than anywhere else on the African continent, due to its modern infrastructure and well-trodden tourist trail. Visit some of the largest intact medieval towns in the world, explore the atmospheric medinas and soak in a hammam to get a sense of traditional life here.
Here you'll find the great imperial cities of Fez and Marrakech, with their ancient stone streets and lively markets, which dance to the sounds of the Adhan, the Islamic call to prayer. Watch the wondrous array of story tellers, acrobats, musicians and snake charmers perform amongst the open-air food stalls of Marrakech's legendary Djemaa El Fna market.
On the Atlantic coast are the pretty towns of Agadir and Essaouira, where surfers and kite surfers come to ride the waves. Elsewhere, Casablanca is home to the largest mosque in the world; the imposing Hasan II Mosque has sufficient space for 100,000 worshippers and boasts a 200m tall minaret, making it the tallest structure in the country. Alternatively, step back in time at Volubilis, Morocco's largest Roman ruin.
Inland, the dramatic Atlas Mountains are home to crumbling kasbahs and hidden Berber communities, tied together with craggy mountain passes and excellent trekking routes. Scramble around North Africa's highest peak, Djebel Toubkal, or hike the challenging Todra Gorge, staying overnight at a home-stay to experience warm Berber hospitality.
