Morocco in Our Eyes
A Bridge between Africa and Europe – a country of Cultural Diversity!
Morocco – real name ‘ Maghreb’, meaning ‘far west’ – is in such a location that has allowed for an incredible history and mix of cultures. Only 14km from Spain across the Mediterranean, it has always been a major trade route connecting Africa and the Sahara with Europe in the north, all the way to the far East via Eygpt, the Islamic world and Asia beyond. At the same time it has maintained it’s own flavour, grounded in the strong indigenous Amazigh (Berber) roots, while peppered with influences from these many connections.
In Morocco you will find great hospitality and warmth in the local people. Accustomed to receiving travellers, first and always we will serve you fresh mint tea! Our beautiful food, especially cous cous and tagine are well known culinary delights. Every meal is finished with fresh fruit or delicious pastries. The Moroccans also know how to relax – recline on sumptuous cushions while you take in your fabulous surroundings!
The stunning landscape of the country, the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert and the Beaches, will take your breath away. Known as having a ‘cool climate with a hot sun’, there is something for everyone here in Morocco. Bask in the sun of the Sahara, take a sunset camel ride in the dunes, surf the waves of the Atlantic coast or escape to the cool mountain air. We have everything here – even ski slopes at the right time of year!
Best known for it’s Ancient Cities, you can lose yourself in the the old Medina of Fes or Marrakech. One minute you will think you have travelled back in time to a Medieval place where traditions from a past age are still maintained. Roadside food stalls cooking on hot coals, artisans at work at their age old crafts, people wearing simple hand woven garments that suit the climate as well as the relaxed life style. Then turn a corner and you will find designer fashions incorporating the finest leather or embroidery or a chic cafe to sit and watch the passing parade.
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*World Heritage Sites: Fortified villages, Kasbahs, Souks, Medinas and old ruins.
There is no shortage of world class, historic and cultural treasures for you to visit in Morocco. The famous UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou is a must see where you can still walk the streets of this unique and well preserved historic site. You can visit spectacular Roman ruins and mosaics in Volubilis and Rabat in the north. The Medieval Imperial City of Fes is over 1,000 years old, with the oldest university in the world (Al-Qaraouine Mosque and University in Fes) founded by a woman, Fatima al-Fihri in 859. The newly renovated Library established by Fatima is a highlight of this ancient community. Take a tour to the fantastic coastal port of Essaouira, walk the Portuguese ramparts and sample the fresh fish from the sea. Visit the souks of the ancient city of Taroudant. Then the Red City of Marrakech where you can enjoy the food and entertainment of the famous Jemaa El Fna square where the music and performers follow traditions that span over 1,000 years.
*OUARZAZATE city or the Hollywood of North Africa
Not far from Ait Ben Haddou and at the Gateway to the Sahara is the city of Ouarzazate. Visit the Atlas Film Studios for a tour and see the sets for the many films that are created in Morocco, from The Adventures of TinTin or The Mummy, to Game of Thrones and The Jewel of the Nile. From Ouarzarzate there are 2 routes to the dunes of the Sahara, via the Dades Valley to the Erg Chebbi dunes or via the spectacular Draa Valley and Jebel Sahro Mountains to Erg Chigaga. Here you will find the strongest links with Africa and the Tuareg culture, the music of the Gnawa and the opportunity to trek in the dunes or take a sunset camel ride!
*The highest peak in North Africa (TOUBKAL SUMMIT)
If it is the outdoor environment and physical challenge that you desire then we can take you right to the summit of Toubkal! Experienced guides will lead the way on a fully supported expedition. Or if you prefer something more relaxing, take a day trip from Marrakech to the 3 Valleys to the Toubkal National Park, drinking tea with an Amazigh family and having a leisurely lunch along the way.
*The endemic species of Argan trees or the goats’ tree
A great treasure only to be found in the south western region of Morocco is the rare Argan tree that provides a delicious and healthy culinary oil as well as a range of cosmetic benefits. It is an industry largely given over to women to assist them to become financially independent and well worth supporting and if you are driving through the forest regions look out for the goats that graze in the tree tops as they enjoy the fruit for themselves and create a spectacular sight and photo opportunity.
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*Cultural encounter and diversity
Morocco has long been the centre of a trade route between Africa, Europe and the Middle East and as such is a melting pot of diversity. Welcoming travellers from afar over a very long history has brought together a rich and varied culture and a people that are tolerant of diversity and difference. There is a vibrant culture of entertainment, music and dance. Artisans continue fabulous work in age-old traditions to enjoy, also give Morocco a reputation as a great place for shopping. The food of Morocco and the unique tagine cooking vessel, using aromatic spices and a range fresh produce is world renowned. The pastries, breads and sweets a specialty that is always washed down with mint tea!
Our Morocco Today Tours strive for a unique and sensitive interaction with the people and nature that we encounter, leaving as little impact as possible on the environment. We make use of the facilities and the services provided by the locals, thus trying to preserve and encourage the communities through our ongoing support.
Our policy is to always remain in contact with our traditional values, with nature and with the common sense of the culture of the indigenous Amazigh (Berber) people.
These would be some of our main reasons to invite you to have a memorable holiday with Morocco Today Tours – be part of a unique travel experience !