Destinations

Morocco luxury trips

From overnight camel trekking through the Sahara desert, to wandering through the colourful souks and alleyways of the ancient city medinas, Morocco has the power to enchant the most seasoned traveler.

Ker & Downey® Africa > Destinations > Morocco

Currency

Moroccan Dirham
(MAD)

Language

Berber, Arabic & French

Time Difference

CET

Capital

Rabat

Morocco highlights

A place of mystery and magic, the diverse country of Morocco calls out the contemporary nomad to follow in the century-old footsteps of travelers and traders. A feast for the senses, the gateway to Africa boasts an enchanting mix of Arabian, Native Berber and Mediterranean cultural heritage and tradition. Travel to Morocco and wander through colourful mazes of the ancient medina in Fez, watch Marrakech come to life at Djemaa El-Fnaa street theatre, admire the mesmerising blue facades of Chefchaouen, or simply take it all in while sipping on a cup of mint tea from the corner street café in Casablanca. Want to take your Moroccan adventure beyond the ancient cities? Morocco’s diverse landscapes invite visitors to journey through the Sahara desert on the back of a camel, trek through the High Atlas mountain range or surf along the coast at Safi Beach.

Location

Bordering the Atlantic ocean and Mediterranean sea, the North African country of Morocco covers an area of 446 550 square kilometres. To the east, behind the High Atlas mountain range is Algeria, and to the south, Western Sahara. Morocco boasts sweeping Sahara dunes, palm-fringed desert oases, towering peaks of the High Atlas mountain range and 1835km of rugged coastline.

What type of wildlife will we see?

This biodiverse destination is home to 40 unique ecosystems and an array of wildlife from elusive leopards and Barbary macaques in the rugged mountain landscapes to charmed cobras in heart of Marrakech. Calling out to bird enthusiasts, Morocco is home to 210 species of birds including soaring eagles and desert falcons.

Best time to visit

Best time to go and why?

Deciding when to travel to Morocco can be tricky as it depends on what you would like to see and do. Travel during the winter months to ski on the slopes of the High Atlas Mountains, or visit the coast during the sweltering summer months. Our favorite time to travel to Morocco is between the months of February to May and September to December. The pleasant weather is perfect for exploring the country’s ancient cities, desert trekking and hiking.

When is high season?

Peak season runs between the months of February to May and September to December. However, during the peak summer months, the weather can get uncomfortably hot, especially in the cities. We recommend heading to the coast to enjoy the cool ocean breeze while soaking up the sun during the high season.

When is low season?

During the winter months between December and January heavy snow falls on the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Feel like a ski holiday? No problem, you can take to the slopes 80kms south of Marrakech in Oukaimeden. Winter in the cities is generally mild but temperatures can drop dramatically at night, leaving a light dust of snow on the ground.

When is the best weather?

The best weather in Morocco is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the temperatures are moderate and the weather is dry.

Top Activities in Morocco

Overnight Camel Trekking

Traverse the golden sand dunes of the Sahara desert on the back of a camel. Sway back and forth as your camel slowly journeys through parts of the world’s largest desert. This truly nomadic experience takes you to desert camps where nights are spent around campfires under the great Saharan sky.

Hot Air Balloon Excursions

Head to Marrakech and watch the city come to life as you ascend above the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains in a hot air balloon. Ballooning excursions take place at dawn, giving you a front-row seat for the Moroccan sunrise.

Trek the Atlas Mountains

Whether you’re looking to summit Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa or just interested in some light hiking to ruined kasbahs, the High Atlas Mountains are a trekker’s paradise. Encircling Marrakech, the range runs across almost 1000km of Morocco. Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) offer the best time for trekking, to avoid the sweltering heat of a Moroccan summer and the snowfall on the peaks in the winter.

Shop at Souks

Get lost in the winding medina mazes of Marrakech or Fez and explore the colourful souks brimming with spices. Browse the copper engraved trinkets, leather goods, bright ceramic pots and, of course, the intricate Moroccan carpets and rugs. If you’re looking to fill your suitcase before your departure, don’t forget souks are a barter-friendly zone.