The Kingdom of Morocco is a melting pot of diverse cultures, fruit of the different colonizations that it has suffered throughout its history. The different communities live in harmony, respecting each other’s differences.
The numerous migrations that Morocco has experienced have created a spirit of tolerance and openness. Today Islam, Christianity and Judaism enrich each other spiritually and intellectually through the exchange and transmission of their culture.
The Berbers (in the Berber language: Amazigh in the singular, Imazighen in the plural) are the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa, called Tamazgha. Distributed in various ethnic groups from the Atlantic Ocean to the oasis of Siwa, in Egypt, as western and eastern extreme points respectively; and from the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, to the north, to the Sahel, as the southern limit, including the Canary Islands. The set of Berber languages, or Tamazight languages (feminine of ‘Amazigh’), is a branch of the Afro-Asian languages. It is estimated that in North Africa there are between 25 and 45 million Berbers, especially in Algeria and Morocco, and between 2 and 3 million in Europe.
The Berbers, are one of the pillars of the current Morocco. The Royal Institute of Amazigh Culture was created on October 17, 2001. Since then the Berber has been recognized as an official language. Now it is included in school programs and national radio and television stations. The richness of the Amazigh tradition is expressed most clearly during the Timitar festival in Agadir.
Berbers
Over the centuries, Morocco has been able to encourage coexistence between different cultures. Even though Islam is the majority religion, the mutual respect that between the different reigning religions has given birth to a peaceful society that shares traditions and values. The ability of Moroccan Islam to adapt to the constant evolution of society and scientific, social and cultural progress guarantees a long-term future.
Remember that: Morocco is an Islamic land where tolerance and respect for other spiritual and cultural communities are the basis of an identity that is open to difference.
Morocco is well served by airlines and has numerous airports. By boat it is a solution, which is slower but more romantic.
In just a few hours, you will find yourself at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains or on the beach.
Royal Air Maroc and European airlines offer regular services and there are many charter flights to facilitate access to tourist destinations, for example: Casablanca is a 1 hour flight from Madrid, 3 hours from Milan and Paris and 3 hours and 20 minutes From london. Marrakech further south, is a 2 hour flight from Madrid, 3 hours from Paris and 4 hours and 45 minutes from London. We advise you to choose the flights with arrival to the nearest airport to your final destination.
Regarding access by boat, the shortest routes are those that communicate with Spain with multiple shipping companies such as Transmediterránea, Euro Ferrys, FRS and Arms that offer daily connections between Algeciras and Ceuta in 35 minutes or Algeciras – Tangier, in two hours and average or between Tarifa – Tangier 35 minutes. From the ports of Melilla and Nador operate shipping companies with connections to Malaga (8 hours approx.), Granada (Motril) (4 hours and a half), and Almeria (6 hours). Enclave of Melilla (8 hours) and Almeria (10 hours).
Remember: Come when you want: There will always be a plane or a boat, which will take you as quickly as possible to your Moroccan destination.
To be able to visit Morocco it is necessary to have a valid passport in force.
Depending on your nationality you may need a visa for which you should contact the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country of residence in advance of your trip.
No visa is required for nationals of the European Union or those of Switzerland and Canada.
For all nationalities, the maximum length of a tourist visit is 90 days.
When preparing for your departure from your country of origin, it is advisable to take note of the contact details of your embassy and regional consulates, as for example, you can renew your papers there in case of loss and offer you all kinds of advice (health , security, etc.) In general, all diplomatic offices have an emergency number to call in case of emergency.
Remember: Check the validity of your passport and take note of your diplomatic contacts
Visits in Spring (March – June):
Morocco offers clear skies with a radiant sun for most of the year. In spring the climate particularly warm and pleasant. In this season, temperatures range between 23 and 26 ° C in Agadir and Marrakech. The trees are in bloom and the high peaks of the mountains still have snow in them.
Visits in Summer (June – September):
In coastal areas, the high summer temperatures are kept under control thanks to the sea breeze. On the contrary, in the south, after the high Atlas mountains, high temperatures (38 ° C average) are reached at this time of the year. Take advantage of the freshness of the exquisite mountain climate in summer. For example, the Valley of Ifrane (at 1650 m altitude), with its pastures, forests and waterfalls.
In Morocco, an adequate climate is never far away, no matter the time of year!
Visits in Autumn (September – December):
This is the season for rest: the nights are longer and temperatures fall inland. The winter rains have not yet arrived and still the temperature is nice to swim in the sea.
Visits in Winter (December – March):
The Atlantic and the Mediterranean offer mild temperatures throughout the year on the coasts. In the highlands, winter is cold and wet. In this season you can practice the Sky and other winter sports in the Atlas or enjoy the beaches of Essaouira or Agadir.
Remember: The temperate climate of Morocco makes it possible to enjoy the richness and diversity of the country throughout the year. Come enjoy it!
There is a huge variety of accommodation to choose from: from campsites to five-star hotels, self-catering accommodation or a riad, but in all you will find a quality welcome for sure.
Hotels and Riads:
In the main cities of Morocco, you will find establishments belonging to the Western hotel chains that have been established for a long time. There are also many establishments of all categories that offer a wide variety of options.
The Riads, rehabilitated in their majority, are the traditional Moroccan houses, in which the rooms are around a central courtyard. In them, you will discover the best of Moroccan art of living.
Remember: In this land of traditions, hospitality remains a key value.
Like the country, the food is rich in flavors, aromas and colors. Its aromas and combinations of sweet and sour are famous throughout the world.
Customs and habits :
A Moroccan meal is an experience that reaches all the senses. The family atmosphere is complemented by the aromas of saffron, cumin and coriander. And each region will reveal its specialties, its traditions and its welcome.
The great classics:
Of course, you can taste the star dish internationally: the Couscous, or rather, a whole series of couscous, because there are many, depending on the time of year and the region. You can appreciate a subtle balance between spices and rich combinations of meat and vegetables.
You can also taste the jewel of Moroccan cuisine: the Pastilla: a delicate cake that marvelously combines finely chopped pigeon, parsley, hard-boiled egg, almonds and honey sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. A true feast for the senses!
You will also find the delicate Pill with chicken or Briouats meat. You will discover the soup including Harira, with a base of lentils and chickpeas. And how could he resist the pleasures of the Tajine? Well of beef or lamb, chicken or cooked fish, accompanied by vegetables and fruits that are traditionally cooked in a covered clay dish that has given it its name.
Tea and cakes:
And, finally, the Moroccan pastry shop: Pancakes with honey and sesame seeds, the Almond cakes or raisins, etc. and accompanied, of course, by the traditional mint tea.
Remember: Moroccan cuisine is one of the best in the world. Come and try it for yourself!