Welcome to the Wonders of Morocco
Land of legends, crossing of civilizations, Morocco Kingdom offers many mysteries to be discovered and a wide range of landscapes to enjoy. Morocco’s reputation for hospitality has made it a much sought-after tourist and business destination.
Area 710.000 Km² with a 3500 km coast line
Population 2010 35 Millions
Capital Rabat
Imperial Cities Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, Rabat
Politic Constitutional Monarchy
Tourism 2010 9.3 Millions
HISTORY
From the prehistoric time, Morocco has been inhabited and therefore many prehistoric sites remain. Many civilizations have conquered Morocco, from the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Berbers, Byzantine, Romans and Vandals before the Arab invasion which took place in the 8th century. From this rich history, Imperial cities flourished and prospered from trade and craftsmanship.
A strategic location
Morocco Kingdom is located in the far Northwest tip of Africa and is the nearest African country to Europe, separated from Spain by only 9 miles by Gibraltar strait. Morocco offers a wide variety of landscapes; during a short stay you can swim in the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, climb the tallest mountain of North Africa (Toubkal 4165 meters), enjoy a safari in the desert, and visit the fertile plains of the Haouz. You can go from the snow of the Atlas to the Saharan desert in one single day!
CLIMATE
Climate is exceptional all year round.
- There is a 300 sunny days average per year, sometimes even more !
- Annual sunshine average per day is more than 8 hours.
- The average temperature is 21 Celsius or 69 Fahrenheit.
Regional specifications:
- On the coastal regions, the winter is cool with some rain, while the summer is sunny and mild; from 12°/19°, in winter to 26°/30°, in summer.
- Inland, the winter is warmer. The summer is hotter as you go further south; from 10°/22°, in winter, to 28°/38°, in summer.
- In the mountains, it is cold in winter and dry in summer. There is snow from 1600m height and temperatures are lower.
CULTURE
AND TRADITION
A rich and enriching culture, cultivated for centuries. Traditions are being perpetuated from generation to generation. Morocco has opened up to the modern world, however still preserves its tradition, cuisine, costumes … and monuments.
Craftsmanship
Craftsmen have passed their craftsmanship from generation to generation. Various skills are present in the Souks; which are commercial markets and places of meetings and excitements of the five senses.
Prices are to be negotiated! It is an art and a game and an occasion to share a cup of tea!
The art of Tapestry
Moroccan tapestry is various. Each region has its own style and patterns. Each piece has a history, and each piece is unique
Embroidery
Used for confection in table clothes, pillow sheets, caftans. There are many styles and patterns depending on the region and the type of clothes.
Pottery
Pottery dates back since 3000 years ago. The most famous are from the city of Fes and known as « Bleu of Fes ». Other designs with vivid colors are used for decoration and appliances.
Wood sculpture
Beautiful sculpture from Essaouira made from a rare wood called the Arganier. The Arganier tree is unique to this region and does not grow in any other part of the world.
Gastronomy
Moroccan cuisine is considered one of the best cuisines in the world. It is a pleasure for your eyes and your nose before it becomes a pleasure for your mouth.
Many dishes are savored like couscous, pastille, tajines in many variants, harira soup, and much more dishes that make your mouth water. Pastries with honey, almonds, cinnamon are to be enjoyed with a Moroccan mint tea.
Moroccan wine offers a wide variety of choice, red, white, rosé are often of excellent quality.
PRACTICAL
INFORMATION
Passport /Visa
A Valid passport is required for European Union citizens and North American citizen. No Visa required.
Money
1 dirham = 0,09 Euro; 1 Euro = 11 dirhams
Notes of 200 DH ; 100 DH ; 50 DH ; 20 DH
Coins of 10 DH ; 5 DH ; 1 DH ; 0,50 DH ; 0,20 DH.
The dirham cannot be imported nor exported.
Change and Credit Cards
Foreign currencies can be exchanged in banks, hotels and Bazaars.
Major credit cards are accepted in most of the cities. You can also withdraw cash from ATM’s.
Health
No vaccination is required. Nevertheless, universal rules of hygiene when travelling are to be respected.
Moroccan pharmacies carry all the necessary medicines.
What to bring with you ?
- Euro or any other valid currencies, major credit cards are accepted mostly everywhere.
- Warm clothes in the winter for cool evenings and light clothes for sunny days.
- Bring a hat and a bathing suit. Decent clothing is preferable in public spaces.
Useful links
Moroccan embassies and consulates www.maec.gov.ma
Moroccan National Tourist Office www.visitmorocco.com
Moroccan Information: www.maroc.ma/PortailInst/An/home