Types of rest in morocco. Holidays in morocco What is in morocco

Rest in Morocco is very diverse: it is a rich excursion program, snow-white beaches of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, ecotourism, thalassotherapy and even ... ski resorts.

Please note that the level of service in hotels in Morocco may be lower than in the UAE or Turkey, so before traveling, you should carefully read the reviews of the institution where you plan to stay.

Guided tours and safaris

The Moroccan part of the Sahara Desert includes red dunes, fortresses and the Draa Valley. Tours usually start from the settlements of Merzuga or Mkhamid. A 3-day camel tour with an overnight stay in a desert camp or a jeep safari with visits to Berber villages is a true adventure for the thrill-seekers.

The capital Rabat is the center of cultural life. You can start exploring the city from the medina, the Kasbah Uday fortress, Shella and the Hasan minaret. Several beautiful mosques are located on Jama Street, and the ancient city of Sale is on the opposite bank. In Marrakech, travelers will be attracted by the Jamaa el-Fna square, the palaces of El Badi and Bahia, numerous oriental bazaars and the Almohad fortress. In Casablanca, it is worth visiting the new and old medina, the Hassan II Mosque, the Sacre Coeur cathedral and the ruins of the ancient city of Anfa.

Beach holidays in Morocco

Among the most famous resorts are Agadir, Tangier, Casablanca and Essaouira. Agadir is 6 kilometers of golden sandy beaches, numerous hotels and entertainment. A distinctive feature of Tangier is that it is located on the Mediterranean Sea and on the Atlantic coast. Surfers prefer the ocean coast because of the large waves. You can also get to Spain by ferry.

Medina of Essaouira, a picturesque town with white houses and blue shutters, is listed as a UNESCO heritage site. Many tourists travel to the neighboring island of Mogador with its picturesque lagoons. According to tourists, the waves are the highest in Essaouira.

There are many surf camps and schools in Morocco. Experienced surfers prefer to come in the winter when the waves are stronger and more frequent.

Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy is also very popular. Moreover, many spa centers are located directly at the hotels. In addition to various types of massages, visitors are offered treatments with sea water, relaxation in salt rooms, algal and mud therapy, hydro massage and water gymnastics. Morocco produces high quality argan oil, which acts as a powerful antioxidant and is used in many treatments. For health problems, individual programs are developed for tourists.

Ecotourism

Fans of hiking and trekking of varying degrees of difficulty will find the Atlas Mountains National Parks, where Berber nomads live. The most famous among them are Tazekka, Toubkal and the Dades and Todra gorges. Experienced hikers reach Tukbal peak, which is 4,167 meters high. Another interesting place is Paradise Valley at the foot of the mountains with lakes and waterfalls.

Ski resorts

It seems incredible, but in Morocco (you shouldn't forget that this is North Africa) there are ski resorts. These are Ukaymeden 70 kilometers from Marrakech and Ifrane 50 kilometers from Fez. A well-developed infrastructure awaits you in Ukaidemen:

• 7 lifts,
• well-groomed slopes,
• numerous bars and restaurants,
• heated pools,
• sports complex.

Ifran is in no way inferior to Ukaidemen: it seems that alpine villages by some miracle have moved here.

Holiday seasons in 2019

The climate in the country depends on the region. Daily temperature drops can be up to 20 degrees. The mild subtropical climate in the north is replaced by a continental climate in the south. Due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the cold Canary Current, the western regions are the coolest. In summer, the air warms up to +37, and in winter, the temperature drops to +5.

High season

Since most tourists come to Morocco to soak up the beaches, the high season is from June to October. For sightseeing tours, it is better to choose spring or autumn, since in the hot months it is quite tiring to explore the country (especially if travelers are going to the desert).

For those who decide to go on a ski tour in the Atlas Mountains, the most favorable time is from the end of December to March.

On New Year's and Christmas holidays, many Europeans come, especially Spaniards.

Low season

The low season is the period from November to March, since the air warms up to +17 degrees and the wind often blows.

You have seen Morocco for sure, even if you just learned about its existence. Many films were filmed here - "Gladiator", "Alexander", "007: Spectrum", "Game of Thrones". This is a very ancient kingdom, whose history can be studied together with the cities: Rabat (there is a royal residence, many parks and architectural monuments), Fez (this is the cultural and religious center of the country, where medieval quarters are still inhabited), Meknes (which is not in vain called "Moroccan Versailles") or Marrakech - it is more flooded with tourists and entertainment for them.

The city of Tangier is shrouded in mythology: in the imagination of the ancient Greeks, it was the edge of the world, where only true heroes could get. 70 km from him, in the city of Larash (in ancient times it was called Lix), there was once the same garden of the Hesperides, from where Hercules stole the apples of immortality.

Well, if you are looking for a beach holiday, go to the most popular resort - Agadir, windy Essaouira, where surfers go, picturesque Oualidia or El Jadida - the port city.

Casablanca

Marrakesh

Mohammedia

El Jadida

Essaouira

Holidays in Morocco

Everything is possible in the Maghreb: a gorgeous beach holiday, excellent ski slopes and a rich excursion program.

Of course, many tourists prioritize beach holidays in Morocco. The swimming season here lasts from late May to late October, at this time the air temperature is up to 30 ° C, the water temperature is 20-25 ° C. Due to the proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the choice of resorts is very wide. In Agadir, you will have at your disposal 20 km of beaches with the purest sand, a gentle bottom and a variety of infrastructure (there are playgrounds, equipment rental, a cafe).

The beaches of Tangier are surrounded by parks with lush greenery of the subtropics, where it is pleasant to relax from the hot sun. For swimming, it is better to choose the beach "Achakar" - there is cleaner water. The quiet lagoon of Oualidia, the gentle ocean waters of Mehdia are good for families. On the Legzira beach not far from Sidi Ifni, tourists appreciate the landscape: there everyone is photographed against the backdrop of picturesque sandy arches that ocean currents have “sculpted” for thousands of years. It's a pity that one of them was destroyed by the tide in 2016. But the second arch is in place!

If you like to alternate beach holidays with cultural ones, choose El Jadid: the colonial era left many monuments of Portuguese architecture there. And without even leaving the capital - Rabat - you can relax on the ocean coast: the city beach is, of course, crowded, but you can go to the suburban and quieter Salé.

But the stormy nature of the Atlantic in Essaouira is just a godsend for surfers, also because it is combined with a lack of tourist hype. 6 km of the beach and perhaps the most impressive waves on the entire coast - it's no accident that international competitions are held here.

Surfing in Morocco in winter is possible - at this time even the biggest waves are caught.

For beginners on the coast, there are surf schools. And there are diving schools too - but only in large resorts, because in general diving in Morocco is not very popular.

The offer to ski in Africa may be considered a joke, but Morocco does. The most popular ski resort is Ukaimeden, 75 km from Marrakech. The season here lasts from December to April, the elevation drops reach 1000 m. There are seven lifts, there is a good rental of equipment, but there are not enough ski patrols.

During the summer, Morocco hosts many festivals dedicated to local saints - attending such a festival, you can get to know the culture and history of the country better.

And, of course, you should definitely see the sights of Morocco.

The pride of Morocco is its cities, which amaze with their unique architecture and oriental luxury.

Marrakech makes an impression with its mosaics and weaving patterns on the walls of houses and mosques. In the evenings, snake charmers, magicians, acrobats and musicians put on theatrical performances in Jemaa el Fna Square. Above all this action, the indescribable smells of local food, which are prepared right there, float.

The Bahia Palace in Marrakech, built by the vizier Sidi Moussa for his beloved wife, surpassed even the sultan's palaces in its beauty - it still remains luxurious and impresses with its original architecture, frescoes and mosaics that adorn the walls and floors.

In Essaouira, you will feel like stepping back in time and see the port where pirate ships used to come and the slave market. Walking along the fortress wall, you can visit workshops where local craftsmen make masterpieces from lemon trees and decorate them with mother-of-pearl and silver. Here you can also see the ruins of the palace of Sultan Ben Abdullah.

The city of Fez will whirl you with narrow streets and the noise of an oriental bazaar, show you the most beautiful buildings - the Bou Jeloud gate and the Dar Bata palace. In the leather tanners' quarter, you will see with your own eyes the leather dressing and dyeing process, honed to perfection by many generations of artisans.

Ait Benhaddou is a fortress on the southern borders of Morocco, built to guard the trade route along which caravans passed. Rectangular buildings with flat roofs, arranged in tiers, retain the authentic atmosphere of the ancient Maghreb. In the "city of white houses" - Casablanca - there is the Hassan II mosque, which has the highest minaret in the world: 210 m. People of all faiths can visit it, not only Muslims. The building of extraordinary beauty is located on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The roof can be retractable and the floors and walls are made of rare types of marble, onyx and granite. The room is illuminated by 50-ton Italian crystal chandeliers. And all this luxury is built on donations from Moroccans.

And the most remarkable sight of Morocco is the Sahara Desert in the southeast.

How to get there?

Direct flights from Russia to Morocco are carried out only from Moscow: Sheremetyevo-Casablanca or Sheremetyevo-Agadir, it takes 6-8 hours to fly. A flight with one or two transfers will be cheaper - this is how you can get from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Rabat. The most economical, but the longest flight from Moscow is with one or two transfers. It takes about 22 hours and can be landed in Paris, Lisbon or Barcelona.

You can also fly from St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk with a transfer.

And if you suddenly travel to Spain, you can get to Morocco by ferry - from Tarifa to Tangier. Ferries are frequent and the journey takes only an hour.

Currency

You can bring any currency with you - euros, dollars, rubles, but in the end you will have to exchange money for Moroccan dirhams, because payments in foreign currency are not carried out on the territory of Morocco.

It is very difficult to exchange Russian money; there are practically no exchange offices for this. There will be no problems with converting dollars and euros into dirhams. It is especially convenient that the exchange rate for these currencies is the same in all banks, hotels and exchange offices.

Credit cards are accepted in large shopping centers, but in small shops and in the market it is better to have small local money.

It is impossible to export Moroccan dirhams outside the country, therefore, upon departure, the balance of funds must be exchanged for dollars or euros again - only for this you need to provide a certificate that you have already changed them for dirhams.

Tips are accepted, or "baksheesh" - a little bit, but often.

Communication and Internet

There are three mobile operators in Morocco: Meditel, Wana and Maroc telecom. A SIM card costs 20 dirhams, which immediately go to the subscriber's account. For this amount, you can talk for about half an hour inside Morocco or make a ten-minute call to Russia.

Internet access can be obtained via the Wi-Fi network at the hotel or at the Internet cafe.

Post offices are hidden under the yellow PTT or La poste signs, and under the blue ones are private companies, where you can call on payphones.

Behavior and safety

Morocco is safe enough for tourists - both in terms of health and in a "criminal" sense. But it is better not to tempt fate and follow some rules:

• do not carry a lot of money and valuable things with you, leave the original passport at the hotel, and take a copy with you;
• do not walk alone in the city at night (ladies without a companion need to be especially careful);
• do not take pictures of people without their consent;
• during Ramadan - a Muslim fast (it happens in May-June, lasts for a month), it is not recommended to eat and drink in a crowded place, especially - to smoke and drink alcohol: this can cause a negative reaction among Moroccans;
• local residents very intrusively offer their services on the streets, markets and in shops - their help must be refused as firmly and politely as possible (if you do not want to pay for it);
• women are better off wearing long sleeved dresses or wide trousers; men are not recommended to wear shorts (they remind Moroccans of underwear);
• lovers should not show their feelings in public;
• if you are invited to visit, do not refuse: this is a reason for resentment;
• at lunch, do not touch food with your left, "unclean" hand, and get ready to drink at least three cups of tea (so as not to offend the owner);
• drink only bottled water;
• public toilets in Morocco are paid: the cleaning lady at the entrance must be given a couple of coins; - in Morocco they speak Arabic, French here is the language of business communication, in the north you can speak in Spanish, but there are problems with English;
• you can swim in regular swimwear;
• but in winter it is cold in Morocco: from October to April, stock up on fleece and windproof clothing, especially if you are going on the coast or in the mountains.

Souvenirs in Morocco

If you don't visit the local souk market, you won't see half of the world's treasures. Here you can spend the whole day choosing jewelry, carpets, unusual dishes, hookahs, fabrics, spices and much, much more.

The largest markets are in Marrakech and Fez, in other large cities there are smaller bazaars, but prices are also lower there. Bargain without hesitation - this is a ritual, a type of communication and the opportunity to drop the price five to ten times.

You can buy oriental shoes with upturned noses and a traditional Berber robe, leather bags and shoes, silver jewelry, natural cosmetics - for example, black bath soap or the most delicate glycerin soap with natural dyes and fragrances.

Choose something for interior decoration: local ceramics, bedspreads or Berber carpets with unusual ornaments, lamps made of leather, colored glass or tracery bronze that will fit into any interior, aromatic thuja souvenirs, mirrors.

And be sure to grab something from Moroccan gastronomy: spices, the choice of which is huge (and you can talk about the taste for hours); the freshest olives of all sizes and varieties; cookies with almonds, oranges or nuts (a great souvenir for family and friends); local tea or coffee and argan oil - it is produced only here.

Climate in Morocco

Africa is Africa, but the Atlantic Ocean does not warm up very quickly, so in May-June the water on the beaches of Casablanca, Agadir and Essaouira will be quite cool. Travel at this time to the resort of Tangier, where the Mediterranean waters have already warmed up and do not raise large waves. And from July to October, the resort season is in full swing on the ocean coast. The air temperature rises to + 35 ° С, there is little rain, and the water is very comfortable - up to + 25 ° С.

To visit the many sights of Morocco, come in autumn, when the heat has already dropped to 23-25 \u200b\u200b° C and you can walk in a comfortable environment. You won't be able to swim in the ocean, but you can still swim in the hotel pools.

In winter, cold and harsh winds blow in Morocco, and a lot of humidity, but January and February is the time for those who go skiing to Africa.

Features of entry

Morocco is an oriental hospitable country, therefore, for Russian tourists arriving here for up to 90 days, you do not need a visa or even payment of an entry fee. In addition, Morocco is one of the few Arab states that freely admits travelers who have a stamp of visiting Israel in their passport.

Upon entry, you only need to present your passport and migration card - it is filled out on the plane (for all family members, including kids) and includes 13 simple questions to the point. Let's talk about two in more detail: "Address in Morocco" - you just need to write the name of the hotel (at least some); "Profession" - it is better not to announce that you are a journalist, photographer, correspondent or blogger. Communication with the border guard will be short if you indicate something neutral.

If you enter Morocco by ferry from Spain, then passport control takes place right there.

You can freely import into Morocco a bottle of spirits and wine, up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars. If you have professional photographic equipment, you will have to declare it.

Where to stay in Morocco

Morocco awaits travelers with all levels of finances, and there is accommodation for everyone to taste and to afford.

But we recommend that you feel like a padishah at least once and stay at the riad: this is a kind of 4-5 star hotel, decorated in Moroccan style and offering personal service for residents. There can be from four to 12 rooms (each has its own unique design), the doors of which open onto a courtyard with a fountain, garden or pool. The most unusual riads are found in Marrakech, Fez, Essaouira; in them you can celebrate a birthday, a wedding or organize a party for friends.

For those who go skiing to the Atlas Mountains, there are houses owned by local guides - the cost of living is about $ 5. You can also stay in Redfuji houses, reminiscent of Swiss chalet villas.

If you are traveling with a large family or company, you can rent an apartment and cook your own food. And for young people there are Youth hostels - youth hotels.

And don't forget about campsites: a parking space there costs about 3 dollars, and if you agree with the locals, you can put up a tent on their land for free.

When booking a hotel in Morocco, take into account the difference between the Eastern and Western mentality. Interiors with a minimum of textiles and a maximum of tiles are more consistent with European concepts of purity and beauty. Perhaps there will also be more mutual understanding with the European host. You also need to keep in mind that Moroccans are a noisy people, they communicate loudly and are very fond of music. Therefore, when choosing where to stay, make sure that there are no banquet halls nearby.

Transport in Morocco

To travel quickly and inexpensively around the north of the country and the central part, pay attention to the railway: it connects Fez, Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech.

Trains are different in terms of comfort, they can be ancient and completely new, and the carriages in them are divided into first and second class. Trains leave very often, about once every two hours, and tickets can be bought (at affordable prices) online or before departure.

Most people travel to Morocco by buses. For intercity trips, Grand Taxi is used - minibuses, which are profitable to travel with a large company of up to eight people. The price of a trip to them (20-50 dirhams) is negotiated in advance with the driver. Buses do not stop on highways.

There are few buses in cities, they run infrequently, so the most convenient transport for a trip is Petit Taxi, a small car that has its own color in each city. For example, in Agadir such taxis are red, and in Tangier they are turquoise. Boarding costs 1.4-1.6 dirhams, and the minimum trip price is 5 dirhams. There are no meters, discuss the price in advance with the driver, who will also be very happy with the tip.

You can rent a car in Morocco. Requirements - as in Europe: international law, credit card and age over 21. A middle class car will cost at least 450 dirhams per day. Just do not settle for "street" offers - there are enough official rental companies in Morocco. Keep in mind that safety belts are required here, and no one observes the rules on the streets of cities, so you need to be very careful.

A liter of gasoline costs about 1 euro. There are no free parking lots. You can leave your car in the underground parking of the shopping center; in a street parking lot, which can be fenced off with anything (stones, rope) or in any place where there are no prohibition signs. As soon as you start parking, a person in a "uniform" (reflective vest) will run up to you - this is the "valet" who collects money. It will be enough 2-5 dirhams.

Cuisine in Morocco

Consider that you have not been to Morocco if you have not tried tagine - the main national dish. Stew of the most tender meat with vegetables and fruits, seasoned with a mixture of exotic spices. The meat in the dish can be substituted for seafood.

A few more popular Moroccan dishes:

• bastille - a puff pie with pigeon meat, eggs and almonds;
• jam-emshmel - tagine with chicken meat, olives and soaked lemons;
• meshui - a ram or ram leg baked on a spit.
• harira - thick meat soup with pasta.

The local cuisine is distinguished by an abundance of cereals and legumes, fish and poultry, spices, mint, olives and olive oil, couscous. Favorite Moroccan drinks are sweet mint tea (served with pine nuts) and the strongest coffee.

To get acquainted with Moroccan cuisine, you can go to Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech, around which there are dozens of cafes and restaurants - where you will be served national dishes and a large selection of seafood. Try the kebabs or grilled sardines, which average AED 25.

Fans of gourmet cuisine will love the Dar Essalam restaurant (also in Marrakech), and in the bazaars you can try local fast food - street food in Morocco is safe and tasty. If you like the usual food, there are enough European restaurants in resorts and in big cities, including McDonald's. You can eat in fast food for 25 dirhams, in a cafe for 40-60, in a restaurant for at least 70.

Just do not go to the cheapest eateries, even if they are filled with locals - it is easy to pick up the virus in such places.

Many tourists, tired of the annoying Turkish and Egyptian resorts, are looking for a worthy alternative: a warm country. where it's not far to fly, and you don't need to get a visa.

I recently wrote a post , which is now one of the ten leaders in booking tours. But many have already been to Tunisia. And in many other countries of the traditional beach holiday.

And here Morocco for Russian tourists it is still a mysterious country, terra myth. This destination is usually chosen by more sophisticated tourists who have been to many places, and for them, in addition to the beach, it is also important rich cultural program ... For such tourists, Morocco is the promised land.

I myself almost got together one day in Morocco. And even sent an application to the tour operator. But, due to some personal circumstances, she was then forced to refuse the trip. Did not work out. And as it turned out later, my trip would not have taken place anyway - the tour operator was on the verge of bankruptcy and filmed its flight program in Morocco. But my dream to visit this country has not gone anywhere. So today I want to discuss with you once again the advantages that Morocco has as a tourist destination. And dream ..

Morocco without hassle: a country that does not bother

So, the Kingdom of Morocco is located in the Northwest of the African continent. And despite the African identity, Africa in this country is just the least. The population of the country is 32 million citizens, half of them are Arabs. The official language is Arabic and French. Spanish is also often spoken. Well, no wonder, right? Spain is there, across the Strait of Gibraltar ...

The undoubted advantages of resting in Morocco include:

- visa-free entry for Russians,

- comfortable conditions for recreation in terms of climate and safety,

- ample opportunities for thalassotherapy,

- an ideal place for surfing,

- a wide range of excursion routes.

So let's go over these points more closely.

So, visa to Morocco although not required, some rules do exist. First, you must have a passport valid for at least six months at the end of the trip. And secondly, the period of visa-free stay is only 90 days from the moment of crossing the border. For legal residence for more than 3 months, a pre-issued visa is required.

Weather in Morocco

In terms of climate, Morocco is also lucky: the optimal combination of water and air temperature for a beach holiday is from June to October. The hottest month is August, when the average temperature is about +35 degrees. But a pleasant breeze always blows on the coast, so the heat is not felt. There is no rainy season. Sometimes the weather is cloudy. But the sun is still very active, so stock up on sunscreen. The water temperature in the ocean is + 20-24 degrees. In general, you can relax in Morocco at any time, depending on the part of the country and the purpose of the trip. So, starting in September and throughout autumn, winter and spring, it is good to take sightseeing tours. I'll talk about them a little later.

Morocco's safety for tourists

A big plus for Morocco is the fact that this country, unlike the same Egypt and Tunisia, is politically stable... The King of Morocco is a highly revered personality. And at the same time, there is absolutely no cult of monarchy in the country. And the country is absolutely safe for tourists. The population in Morocco is very law abiding. the crime rate is lower than in European cities. Tough legislation also contributes to this in no small measure. Traffic rules are strictly observed here by all drivers. Driving while drunk faces a prison sentence.

Roads in Morocco are different, but usually not satisfactory.

And the roads themselves in Morocco are mostly very good. They are being watched. They are regularly repaired. Tourists are usually transported on highways, the permitted speed of which is generally 120 km / h, but for tourist buses - 100 km / h. And all the transport on which tourists are taken to Morocco is subject to mandatory certification.

Guides, by the way, also work only with a license. To obtain it, you need a diploma of higher education, passing a medical commission (yes, that's it) and passing a written and oral exam. And a special commission, based on the results of this exam, assigns the applicant the status of a regional or national guide. A regional guide has the right to work only in a certain region (for example, in Marrakech), while a national guide can work everywhere.

So, as you can see, all professionals in their field will be engaged in your vacation in Morocco. Nice, isn't it?

Why you should go to Morocco

Let's move on to the next point. Kingdom of Morocco and SPA inseparable from each other. Everything that is necessary for the health of the body is located on the territory of the country: a wonderful climate, sea water, algae and anti-aging argan oil from the fruits of the unique argan tree, which grows only in Morocco. It is this oil that is recommended to be brought from Morocco as a souvenir. Many people know about its beneficial properties for skin and hair. So any woman will find a bottle of such oil very useful.

Hotels in Morocco with their own SPA centers: Royal Atlas & Spа 5 *, , Hotel Tildi Hotel & Spa 4 *, Hotel Boutique & SPA Khalij Agadir 5 *.

Surfers chose Moroccan the town of Es Sueira ... This wonderful city in all respects in ancient times was just a pirate port. It is conveniently located on a 6 km long sandy beach. Due to the bottom topography and constant wind, there is always a high wave here. For this, surfers love him. On this beach you will find about twenty surf stations and surf training schools. The cost of living and training in such surf schools is 350 euros per person per week (accommodation, breakfast and training surfing) what makes surf tours inMorocco the cheapest among all the other places.

A favorite of musicians, artists and filmmakers, Essaueira will captivate you with its endless deserted beaches, dunes, waterfalls and an unimaginable mixture of scents that will make your head spin. Here, around every corner, there are amazing stories about cunning and nobility, about love and hatred, about real exploits, about pirates and adventurers from all over the world. And they will tell you about all this on the excursion Mysterious Essaouira

Essaouira - once a pirate town, then a Portuguese outpost, and now a mecca for surfers ..

Tours in Morocco

Russian tourists who travel to Morocco choose it precisely for the opportunity to combine relaxation on the ocean with a visit to ancient cities ... Yes, it is understandable: having a vacation 1-2 times a year, many want it to be as eventful as possible. And therefore, in one trip, our tourists want to have time for everything - both to swim and to ride in beautiful places.

Well, this please! For such tourists, it is ideal tour of the imperial cities of Morocco, which includes Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Meknes, Marrakech - cities known for their rich history and culture with many different architectural monuments and interesting picturesque places.

Tours to Morocco are more expensive than to Egypt or Tunisia. You can navigate the prices and choose a suitable tour here: View tours in Morocco... You can read about where and how to buy package tours (vouchers) via the Internet (as well as what to avoid) in this article:.

Morocco landmarks

Rabat Is the modern capital of Morocco. The sightseeing of the city will begin with a visit to the Royal Palace - the residence of King Mohammed VI of Morocco. You will also see the Hasan Tower - one of the three most beautiful minarets of Islam, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V - the last refuge of three prominent members of the royal family, as well as the Kasbah Udaya - the ancient citadel of the city.

Hassan Tower.

Marrakesh

Marrakesh - the cultural capital of Morocco, located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, a real oriental city with snake charmers, water carriers and street performers. Most often tourists stay here for 2-3 days. It is the third largest city in the country after Casablanca and Rabat. The city was founded in 1062. The Medina of Marrakech, listed in 1985 as a World Heritage Site, is called the "red city" because of the reddish tint of adobe buildings and fortifications.

In the heart of the medina is the Djemaa el-Fna square. Here you can see acrobats, storytellers, water sellers, dancers, musicians. Behind the old town there is a long palm grove. Marrakech is generally famous for its gardens and parks.

Marrakesh. Morocco.

And in the evening, tourists who come to Marrakech are invited to attend the famous show CHEZ ALI (Shez Ali). Every self-respecting tourist who has visited Morocco tries to attend this show. For a very reasonable amount, you get the opportunity to simultaneously enjoy the dishes of Moroccan cuisine, get acquainted with the performing arts of Moroccan music and dance groups, chat with lovely local girls, taste excellent local beer and, in the end, fully experience the flavor of local customs.

To get to know the real Marrakech, you can book a tour Marrakech for its own. Secrets of the old city, and then you will immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the city, see a complex and fascinating history in a unique interweaving of cultures, learn to bargain in Moroccan, learn the fate of a fortune teller and take a picture with a cobra.

75 km from Marrakech is located ski resortopen from December to April. Skiers, tourists wishing to do trekking or jeep trips in the mountains can rest there.

Meknes

Meknes - a city that combines Islamic and European traditions in the local architecture. Story Meknes began in the 8th century, when a fortified settlement appeared on this place. But the city's finest hour came in 1673, when it became the capital of the powerful sultan Moulay Ismail.The Sultan ordered to build magnificent palaces, surround them with powerful fortress walls, lay out beautiful gardens with swimming pools, fountains, exotic plants and everything else that should be in an almost magical oriental garden. The idea was comparable in beauty to the best European palace complexes. And now very often Meknes is called the Moroccan Versailles.

At the same time, a huge number of mosques were erected, which gave reason to call Meknes the city of a Thousand Minarets. The stones and columns of the Roman city were used to build Meknes Volubilis, the ruins of which can still be viewed near Meknes.

Meknes. Morocco.

If the color of Marrakech is red, Rabat is blue, then Meknes is represented mainly by green - green gardens. The main attractions of Meknes are stone fortress walls with imposing corner towers, nine gatesrichly decorated with ornaments, huge stables, capable of accommodating 12,000 horses. There is also the monumental Bab al-Mansour gate - one of the most beautiful in Morocco. In general, friends, to photograph sights in this city for you is not to re-photograph ...

And finally the oldest of the four imperial cities of Morocco, the largest center of Islamic culture and education in northern Africa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded around 789 by Idris I. In Fez there are already 2 medina - old and new. The old one is more than 1,000 years old, and the new one is only 700 years old. The Old Medina is one of the largest pedestrian zones in the world. The Al-Karaouin mosque is also located here, and it was constantly expanding and by the end of the Middle Ages it had become the largest in North Africa, accommodating up to 20 thousand believers.

In general, it is in Fez that you have every chance to plunge into the Maghreb Middle Ages and experience its charms and horrors. Well, about the delights is quite understandable: nice narrow streets, shopping districts. People come here for cheap leather goods, musical instruments and basic souvenirs (grandmother slippers, ceramic tajin pot).

But the toughest impression from the medina of Fez is of course leather workshops... Not everyone will be able to overcome the terrible smell spreading over them: the skin is soaked in bird droppings and other "natural raw materials", which is why there is a terrible amber for kilometers around ...

Looks pretty, but the smell ... The leather quarters in Fez.

What else will they show you in Fez? There is a large golf course here. By the way, there are many spa centers in Fez. So every tourist will see this city the way he wants to see.

Casablanca

Casablanca. Refer Casablanca to imperial cities according to the rules of Moroccan studies it is impossible - never in its history this town was not the capital of the kingdom. And now it is the business center of Morocco. But the size of the city and its popularity among tourists make it possible to put it on a par with Fez, Marrakech and Rabat.

Casablanca is literally a "white house", and a distinctive feature of the city is the abundance of white buildings. The city stretches along the Atlantic coastline and is a symbol of modern Morocco. During the Middle Ages, Casablanca was a wealthy city known as Anfa. It was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1468 and rebuilt by them in 1515. After a strong earthquake in 1755, the city was rebuilt again. In 1907, Casablanca was occupied by the French. During French rule, the city grew rapidly. The modern city was built around the old Moorish city.

Casablanca - Moroccan beauty

City sightseeing will include a visit to the Hassan II Great Mosque (outside), one of the largest mosques in the world. The Twin Towers of the business center (115 m high) - a symbol of economic prosperity, the tallest secular buildings in Morocco and the entire Maghreb region in North Africa will also attract the attention of tourists; Catholic Church of Notre Dame de Lourdes (mid XX century); Habus quarter - a new medina built by the French at the beginning of the 20th century.

But if you really want something special from visiting Casablanca, I advise you to take a tour East market... The East has always been famous for its markets and bazaars - what you will not see there! Narrow streets connect the bazaars into a single whole: an olive market, a pastry shop, a pottery market. Nearby are antique shops selling unique items. Here you can buy inexpensive high-quality leather and silk goods or eat a slice of date cake ...

Not included in the tour of the imperial cities colorful ... But it's definitely worth seeing! It is not by chance that the capital of the Moroccan film industry, Ouarzazate, bears the second unofficial name - Walllywood: the number of films shot here exceeds fifty. The town owes such close attention to filmmakers for its both medieval and futuristic appearance. The local medina, with its ancient walls of ocher-brick light, seems to have been transported here straight from The Thousand and One Nights.

Against the backdrop of the landscapes of Urzazate, the actions of "Lawrence of Arabia" and Asterix and Obelix unfolded, the gladiator Russell Crowe wandered here and the restless Cleopatra was having fun. Well, in the recent film history, Urzazate appeared in the mega-popular "Game of Thrones" saga. Until its cinematic heyday in the 20th century, Ouarzazate was just a fortress and a staging post for trade caravans from the Sahara to the interior of Morocco and on to Europe.

Urzazat is a fairytale city, a dream city ...

Well, are you tired of sightseeing? It's time to relax, sunbathe and swim in the sea-ocean, finally.

Agadir

Agadir Is the most popular resort in Morocco. Large sandy beach 10 km long. A shallow bay, which is protected from waves, and due to the small water it warms up well. This makes Agadir an ideal place for a beach holiday (both for young people and with children). A little away from the common beach is Taghazut beach, which is perfect for surfing. On a secluded beach, athletes and amateurs can catch the wave without disturbing the rest. More than 40 hotels, as well as cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs and as many as 3 casinos - that's what Agadir is!

European hotel chains are widespread in Agadir: Sofitel, Iberostar, RIU. There are also hotels of "local" origin here. The proximity of eminent competitors makes them meet the set bar. And those who cannot boast of infrastructure try to compensate for the shortcomings with national flavor and hospitable, helpful staff.

Working for ALL INCLUSIVE: El Pueblo Tamlelt - All Inclusive 3 *, Caribbean Village Agador 3 *, Royal Decameron Tafoukt Beach Resort 4 *

Apartments and apart-hotels: Residence Yasmina Agadir, Sidi Yusef Home, Résidence Amwaj

Close to the beach: Hotel Marhaba 3 *, LTI Agadir Beach Club 4 *, Royal Atlas & Spа 5 *, Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort 5 *

Agadir pleased everyone!

Only when choosing a hotel, keep in mind that all hotels are located across the promenade from the beach. At night, this promenade is well lit, and you can walk along the ocean coast even until the morning.

Hotels are open for breakfast, half board, less often full board or all-inclusive. But you can always drink / eat outside the hotel: tea / coffee will cost about 10 dirhams, the main course \u003d from 50 dirhams (for 1 dollar now they give 8.7 dirhams, for the euro something 10.5 dirhams). In addition, there is a hypermarket in Agadir (like our "Auchan") where you can buy the products you need. Basically, you can buy everything except alcohol. Alcohol is sold only in specialized stores (the country is still Muslim).

Yes, since the conversation turned to food.

Moroccan cuisine Is an explosive mixture of Arabic, Berber, Moorish, Jewish and Mediterranean cuisine. Both the historical realities and the geographical position of Morocco contributed to this incredible culinary mix. By right, Moroccan cuisine can be called one of the most delicious cuisines in the world. There will be no pork (Muslims because), but there will be beef, lamb and camel meat. Try couscous, meat pie, and, of course, tagine. The dish has the same name as the earthenware (medium-sized pan with a high lid) in which it is cooked. How to cook tagine correctly - on charcoal. At its core, tagine is a stew. It is prepared with beef, lamb, camel, chicken, turkey, fish. Usually vegetables, fruits, spices are added to meat, poultry or fish and all this is slowly stewed in a tagine dish. In general, in Morocco, a lot of things are cooked in tagine; these dishes are the main instrument of Moroccan cuisine.

Tajin - both a dish and utensils)

I'm already drooling from Morocco, are you?

Well, and finally, this is your argument in favor of Morocco (maybe for someone just the most convincing): weddings daughters Putin took place in one of the most luxurious hotels Morocco.Do you understand everything? So, take note of Morocco, friends.

Share your impressions of the country in the comments and see you on the blog!

Morocco attracts tourists with Arab and African exoticism, excellent Atlantic beaches and endless Sahara desert. Ancient Fez and snow-white Casablanca, holidays in Essaouira and Agadir, colorful bazaars and delicious cuisine - all about Morocco: weather, tours, maps and photos.

Morocco is a country of temptation, an oriental beauty, skillfully flirting with a mesmerized guest. Located in North Africa, but outside the African Union, it is otherwise full of paradoxes. Beautiful and amazing attracts from all parts of the world: in the west - the riot of the Atlantic, in the north - the gentle waters of the Mediterranean Sea, in the south - the cosmic reliefs of the Sahara. And in the heart there are picturesque cities where the hot temperament of the Black Continent, millennial oriental traditions and modern technologies of the West are mixed.

An old mosque is probably hidden behind the facade of a luxurious hotel, behind a shopping center familiar to the European gaze - a noisy market, maddening with aromas of spices, behind a fashionable spa with an exclusive thalasso menu - a secluded beach with idyllic landscapes. The traveler can only look around more attentively and be ready for endless discoveries.

Visa

The Kingdom of Morocco is located in North Africa, bordered by Algeria to the east. The northern shores of the country are washed by the Mediterranean Sea, the western ones - by the Atlantic Ocean. Morocco is separated from Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar.

You do not need to apply for a visa in advance to enter Morocco for up to 90 days. The requirements for a passport are also not strict: it must be valid at the time of departure. At the border, an entry stamp is affixed to the passport. You will also need to fill out a migration card, so do not forget to bring a pen with you.

Weather

You can travel to Morocco all year round - the beach season here lasts without interruption. The water is warmer on the Mediterranean coast, but there are no large resorts there. The ocean water washing the shores of Agadir and Casablanca warms up to + 21 ° C in summer.

The best time to travel to Morocco is spring and early autumn. On the beaches of Morocco, for example, in Agadir, you can relax in the summer as well - the ocean breeze helps to easily endure hot weather.

	In the afternoon	At night	Sea	Season
January	+16…+20	+8…+9	+15
February	+17…+20	+9…+10	+16
March	+17…+22	+10…+11	+17
April	+18…+21	+11…+12	+18
May	+20…+22	+13…+15	+19	Beach
June	+22…+25	+16…+17	+21	Beach
July	+25…+28	+18…+20	+23	Beach
August	+25…+29	+18…+20	+24	Beach
September	+25…+27	+18…+19	+22	Beach
October	+22…+24	+15…+16	+21	Beach
November	+20…+23	+11…+12	+19

CAPITAL	RABAT
Population	32 382 000 people
Square	446 550 km 2
Population density	70 people / km 2
Tongue	arabic, Berber
Religion	islam
Form of government	a constitutional monarchy
Currency	moroccan dirham (MAD)
Timezone	UTC +0
International dialing code	+212
Domain zone	.ma
Electricity	127 V, 220 V

Climate and weather

A cold country with a hot sun - this is how travelers see Morocco. The country's climate is characterized by hot dry summers and warm humid winters. Climatic differences in individual regions are very pronounced. Under the influence of the ocean, the north-western part of the country has the mildest weather conditions.

When choosing a time to travel, stop in May-June, when everything will be buried in greenery and flowers, or September-October, when the strong summer heat has subsided. In summer in Marrakech, temperatures can reach up to +35 ° C, but in the desert since June the thermometer does not drop below +45 ° C... In winter, there are heavy snowfalls in the Atlas Mountains, here are cool nights and daytime temperatures range from +4 ° С to +20 ° С.

Nature

For those who imagine Morocco as an oasis of palm trees surrounded by desert, the country's geographic diversity will be a big surprise.

There are three types of terrain in Morocco: mountains, coast and desert.

The Atlas Mountains are located in the northwestern part of the country. They form a series of parallel ridges and low-lying plains along the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The highest point is Mount Toubkal (4165 m). In the southeast, there is a desert rocky plateau called Western Sahara.

Major rivers - Muluya, Um-er-Rbiya, Tensift, Cebu - originate in the highlands and flow into the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

sights

The cities of Morocco seem to have descended from the pictures of a fairy tale about a thousand and one nights. It is impossible not to admire the architectural monuments with graceful carvings, the finest painting and decoration, and beautiful mosaics.

In Marrakech, head straight to Jemaa El Fna's main square. Come here in the late afternoon and your eyes will be presented with an incredible colorful spectacle: cooking national food, performances of snake charmers, magicians, acrobats and musicians. Other attractions include the 12th century Kutumbia Mosque, the 16th century Ben Yusuf Madrasah and the Bahia Palace.

Essueira is a pirate port city. Explore the ruins of Sultan Ben Abdullah's palace, a former slave market, and a fortress wall

Get lost in the endless maze of narrow streets of the Medina of Fez. One of its parts is the tanners' quarter "Shaura"where they are engaged in leather dressing. Don't miss the museum - Dar Bata Palace, Bu-Inaniya Madrasah and Bou Jelud Gate.

History buffs will love the fabulous Meknes and the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Volubilis (II-III century).

The most significant and largest museums in Morocco are:

• an archaeological museum with a collection of artifacts from the Carthaginian and Roman periods;
• museum of Ethnography in Tetouan;
• museum of Natural Sciences;
• museum of mail;
• udaya Museum in Rabat.

Food

Moroccan cuisine is characterized by the use of three elements: couscous. olive oil and vegetables. Of the latter, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and pumpkin are especially loved. For example, a very popular dish "Tagine" - meat, fish or chicken stewed with vegetables.

An integral part of kitchen utensils - the so-called "Couscousier"... The fixture consists of a pan with a perforated partition. They put meat or vegetables down, and couscous itself is put on the partition and put on the fire. The steam rising from meat and vegetables swells the couscous and permeates them with their aroma. This is a dish for all occasions.

Moroccans love subtle spices and other premium ingredients typical of the national cuisine: mint, olives and persimmons from Meknes, citrus fruits from Fez and Agadir, pomegranates from Marrakech, almonds and lamb from Sousse, dates from Erfoud ...

Three of the best Moroccan dishes: "Bastilla" (puff pie with pigeon meat, eggs and almonds), "Jam-emshmel" (tagine with chicken, olives and soaked lemons and "Meshui" (leg of lamb or whole ram on a spit).

Tea is drunk here in a special way. Always with mint and a couple of pine nuts, giving a slightly tangible aftertaste of resin.

Residence

Morocco has a wide range of places to stay, from budget hostels to luxurious riad hotels (traditional type of accommodation).

The largest influx of tourists falls on Easter week and in August, when almost half of the population of Spain and France spend their holidays here. Also, problems with booking may arise during the Christmas and New Years celebrations.

If you are traveling with a family or a small group, then perhaps the best type of accommodation for you is an apartment with the possibility of self-catering.

You can put up a tent in Morocco anywhere, if you have permission from the owner of the land. There are also official campsites. The cost of living there is within $ 3.

Gites d'Etape - this is the name of the houses, in most cases owned by mountain guides and located along the popular trekking routes in the Atlas Mountains. ($ 5). In the mountains you can still live in "Refujah"which offer accommodation in the likeness of Swiss chalets.

Major holidays

• February. Almond Blossom Festival in Tafraut.
• March. Theater Festival in Casablanca; cotton festival in Beni Mellal.
• May. Rose Festival in El-Kelaa-Mgun.
• June. Folklore festival at El Badi Palace in Marrakech; Cherry Festival in Sefru; World Festival of Sacred Music in Fez; moussem in Asni, near Marrakesh; Sahara moussem in Tan-Tan; camel festival in Asrir, near Helmim.
• July. The festival of honey in Imuzzer-Ida-Utanan; water festival in Martila, near Tetouan.
• August. Asil International Arts Festival; Moussem Setti-Fatma in Urik, near Marrakesh; Moussem Sidi Allal el-Hajj in Chefchaouen; Moussem Moulay Abdessalem, including Fantazia, near El Jadida; the festival of African music in Tiznit; holiday of apples in Imuzzer-Kandar.
• September. "Fantasy" in Meknes is one of the largest celebrations in Morocco; the festival of traditional arts in Fez; Moussem Moulay Idris II, during which the Fassi artisans sacrifice a bull to the patron saint of the city; moussem of Sidi Ahmed or Musa in Agadir; the holiday of matchmaking in Imilchil; Moussem Moulay Idris I in Moulay-Idris.
• October. Date Festival in Erfoud; music festival in Essaouira.
• December. Festival of the Olives in Rafsai, in the Rif Mountains.

Official national holidays

• January 1 - New Year.
• January 11 - Day of the declaration of the independence manifesto.
• May 1 - Labor Day. July 30 - Feast of the Throne. August 14 - Day of joining of Ueda Ed-Dahab.
• August 21 - Youth Day (King's birthday).
• November 6 - Anniversary of the Green March.
• November 18 - Independence Day.

State structure

A constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king. Legislative power in the country is exercised by the king and a bicameral parliament (House of Representatives and House of Councils). The King also appoints all ministers and presides over the Council of Ministers.

Tongue

State language: Arabic

In mountainous regions, local dialects are used. The most commonly used second language is French. This is followed by Spanish and English. The Spanish language is especially spoken around Fez.

Religion

Islam is the state religion. Sunni Muslims 99%, Christians 0.8%, Jews 0.2%.

Currency

International name: MAD

The Moroccan dirham is equal to 100 centimes. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 200, 100, 50 and 20 dirhams, as well as coins of 5, 1 dirham and 5, 10, 20 and 50 centimes. In the southern regions and in some places in the high-mountain villages of the Atlas, the monetary unit rial (1/20 dirham) is still in use.

Dirham is not convertible, the export of currency is prohibited, so it is not recommended to exchange large amounts at once. You can exchange currency at banks, large hotels and some large restaurants, as well as at specialized exchange offices at airports. Currency exchange on the street and at unlicensed exchange offices is prohibited. The exchange rate is quite stable, it is the same throughout the country and is set by the state. ATMs are quite common and are located mainly near large retail outlets and banks.

Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants, in almost all hotels and in most large stores, and private merchants are extremely reluctant to work with them. American Express traveller's checks are accepted almost everywhere; checks from other systems are less readily cashed.

History of Morocco

The history of the region is built mainly on the relationship between the Berbers, who have inhabited it since ancient times, and various conquerors. The first foreign conquerors were the Phoenicians, who founded in the XII century BC. several colonies on the Mediterranean coast. Later these colonies passed to the Carthaginians, and from the II century BC, after the conquest of Carthage by the Romans, Roman rule in North Africa began ...

Where to stay

Morocco is a multifaceted country offering tourists a varied vacation: from the sunny beaches of the Atlantic coast to the Atlas ski resorts. Hotels in Morocco are also presented for every taste and budget - from small private hotels to representative offices of international hotel chains.

The hotel classification is standard European. Most often hotels are built and decorated in Arabic style and are located on the coast. Two- and three-star hotels are within one kilometer of the coastline. Four- and five-star hotels are usually close by, or directly in the beach area. These hotels also have heated seawater pools, their own fitness centers and thalassotherapy centers. Most hotels offer half board, but sometimes all inclusive. Business class hotels are located mainly in all major cities of the country - Casablanca, Marrakesh, Rabat, Fez. They have a high level of service, similar to Western Europe, but significantly lower in price.

According to local classification, two- and three-star hotels are subdivided into riad - a small city guest house, auberge - a small inn, gîtes d'étape - a roadside inn. The former are most often located in cities rich in historical sights, and for the most part these are old beautiful houses converted into a hotel with several rooms, some even have a swimming pool. Auberges - provincial inns, made in the traditional kasbah style, mostly cozy family hotels. Gîtes d'étape - roadside hotels for extreme travelers. In the mountains, these are small hotels with everything you need. In the desert - small tent camps or campgrounds with showers, electricity and field kitchens.

Most of the country's hotels, with the exception of the business class, often experience problems with hot water supply. Some economy-class hotels may not have hot water at all, or they charge an additional fee.

Regions and resorts of Morocco

The capital is Rabat, a city of parks, wide alleys and architectural landmarks, where you can read the entire history of the state. Here are the residence of the royal family, the blue and white Medina, ancient mosques and museums that plunge into the depths of the centuries. Within the city there is an excellent beach on the Atlantic Ocean, the best hotels are on the central street. Muhammad V.

The other imperial cities - Fez, Marrakesh and Meknes should certainly be included in the excursion route. The first is called "African Athens": medieval quarters have not been rebuilt for centuries, family crafts (the main of which is leather) are passed from father to son.

There are two ancient centers in Fez at once: Fez al-Bali with endless labyrinths of streets (there are as many as 6000 here!) And Fez-Jdid with the magnificent Emir's Palace.

Marrakech is a huge tourist attraction: just have time to dodge souvenir merchants, street acrobats and snake charmers. Abstracted from the hustle and bustle, you can enjoy walks in the UNESCO-listed Medina, magnificent gardens and parks. Meknes, christened "Moroccan Versailles", is much more comfortable and intimate: local palaces, minarets and mausoleums are full of noble grandeur.

There are also beach resorts in Morocco, the most popular of which is Agadir with 6 km of coastline covered with golden sand, comfortable hotels and all kinds of entertainment: from golf to thalasso. Essaouira has always wind and waves, making it ideal for surfing, while in Tangier, you can swim in both the Mediterranean Sea and the ocean. Tucked away in a picturesque lagoon, Oualidia is famous for its delicious oysters, and El Jadida is famous for its European architecture, preserved from colonial times.

Kitchen

In Morocco, couscous and lamb dishes are highly respected. There are many vegetables and spices on the menu, which give the dishes a unique taste and aroma. On big holidays, a pie with pigeon meat and almonds is served. Tea drinking in Morocco is a real ritual. It is brewed with mint in a special way, poured into a glass from a teapot from a height to get foam. It is customary to serve tea with pine nuts and dates.

Transport

It is convenient to move around the resort towns either on foot or by taxi. Be prepared for other passengers to sit in the taxi along the way. The average price of a taxi ride in Morocco is from 10 to 50 dirhams (usually no more than 10 dirhams per kilometer). High-speed trains run between cities. You can get to Casablanca in a sit-down pasture from the capital, Fez, Marrakech. Coaches run more frequently and are cheaper, but their popularity makes it harder to buy tickets.

What to bring

Embroidered leather shoes (grandmothers, mules), painted pottery, teapots, lamps, bedspreads are brought from Morocco as souvenirs. Spice sets and tea are often bought as a gift.

Good to know

Business climate

Today, Morocco has excellent business development opportunities. Many industries are developed here, in particular, textile, food and chemical industries. Businessmen open small shops with handicraft products. The production of souvenirs is also highly developed in the country.

Before you start building your business in the land of bright sun, golden sand and gentle coastal waves, check out the main taxes that are charged in Morocco: Impôt Général sur le Revenu - IGR (income tax - for income up to 2,400 euros per year - 0%, for income over 12,000 per year - up to 42%), Impôt sur les Sociétés - IS (corporate tax - 35%, for certain types of activities - 8, 10 and 20%.), Taxe sur la Valeur Ajouté - TVA (VAT - 20%), Taxe urbaine - TU (city tax - 13.5%), Taxe d'édilité - TE (municipal tax - 10 and 6%).

The property

Buying real estate in Morocco is profitable: the country has a developed tourism business, and a constant flow of people will bring you income.

Home purchase prices are not very high. A villa can be chosen from the simplest option for $ 193,700 to construction in a prestigious area with all the amenities for $ 387,300. The most prestigious area in Morocco for the construction of a villa is the Palmeria area on the outskirts of Marrakech.

The acquisition of real estate takes place in several stages. After the direct selection of the object of purchase, the Compromis de Vente (preliminary sales contract) is concluded. The next stage is the signing of the Acte de Vente (final purchase and sale contract). This is followed by the Titre de proprietere (notarization of the deed of sale). And the matter remains small: the new owner is registered with the state registration office of Real Estate and pays taxes on the purchase and registration of real estate.

If you decide to resell the property less than 5 years after purchase, the tax will be 20%. For the first 5 years, rental income is not taxable for new buildings (the tax rate will be 2% if the property belongs to the secondary real estate market).

Weddings

Moroccan wedding

A Moroccan wedding is an occasion for mass celebrations, when the entire town joins in the rituals preceding the wedding ceremony. Traditionally, the father chooses the bride for the son. The son has the opportunity to look at the girl from afar to express his opinion. If all is well, the father offers a ransom to the beloved's family. If the ransom is accepted, the engagement of the young is announced for a period of one to two years. Engagement is a legally binding element of the marriage process, allowing young people to get used to each other. They can sleep together if they wish.

In cities, a wedding between representatives of wealthy families can last a week, and then each day has its own ritual. In poorer rural areas, weddings are often given only one day. In any case, the wedding is preceded by numerous rituals. After a period of preparation, the bride is taken to the groom's house, where she is greeted with music, dancing and general rejoicing. The bride is ushered into the party room and guests are seated for the feast accompanied by music and dancing. At Berber weddings, the bride is brought to the groom's house on horseback and then hidden in one of the upper rooms, wrapped in carpets. Only the closest relatives can visit it. The groom must be able to get to her on the attached wooden stairs.

Like all other areas of Moroccan life, the marriage process is undergoing significant changes. Today, in cities, a woman's opinion in choosing a partner is no less significant than in the West. And the ransom is no longer so relevant: the double income of the future family, mortgages and tax breaks are more significant advantages than gold or camels.

Routes

Morocco's diversity makes it an ideal country for road travel. Renting a car is highly recommended: the distances are long but easy to cover, so you can see most of the country in two weeks. Public transport works well, but it will take a long time to travel, and for more remote areas, especially the High Atlas (Haut Atlas), the car is a must. Most international car rental companies will allow you to pick up your car at one airport and return it at another.

North

The popular summer ring route attracts the beaches of the Atlantic coast in Asil and Larache, the exotic port of Tangier. Families with children often travel to the calm and clean Mediterranean coast, while adventurous tourists climb to the white cities of Tetouan and Chefchaouen or climb the wild mountains of the Reef. Many visitors combine a week in the region with a week in the imperial cities and southern Morocco.

Imperial cities

Fez is the oldest of the four imperial cities of Morocco

The exciting journey through the four imperial capitals of Morocco begins in Marrakech in the south, passes through Fez and Meknes and ends in the majestic capital on the Atlantic coast of Rabat. The route includes excursions to the High Atlas, cedar forests of the Middle Atlas (Moyen Atlas), the ancient Roman city of Volubilis and the Muslim holy city of Moulay-Idris. The first-class resorts of Mohammedia, Temara and Skhirat, located on the coast, attract with their beautiful sandy beaches. When planning your trip, keep in mind that in summer it is very hot in Marrakech; it is best to visit this city in spring and early autumn. During the winter months, some of the High Atlas passes, from Marrakech to Fez, may be closed due to bad weather.

South

For many visitors, visiting the south of the country is the most impressive part of their stay in Morocco. The High Atlas gives way to dry plains and lush oases. This is the so-called African Morocco. Camels graze in the valleys of the Dra and Ziz rivers; sand dunes seem to rise to the sky near Erfoud. (150 m high)... The main agricultural crop of the region is dates: on the local scarce soils, mainly date palms survive. On the coast, the modern resort of Agadir has excellent infrastructure that guarantees a good rest. North of Essaouira, it is a more traditional seaside town with a fishing port and charming beaches. The high season in the south is from September to May, but even then the air temperature often goes over 40 ° C.