Morocco, in the African continent, is one of the popular tourist destinations because it combines tradition and modernity and a set of diverse and even contrasting attractions, From the great desert of Africa to the highest mountain range in the north of the continent. Read more about Morocco and its interests.
Where is Morocco?
Morocco, with the official name “Kingdom of Morocco,” is located in the Maghreb region in North Africa and has a city of the same name. This country reaches the Mediterranean Sea from the north and the Atlantic Ocean from the west. It has a land border with Algeria from the east and the disputed territory of Western Sahara from the south.
The area of Morocco is 446,300 square kilometers, with a population of about 38 million people. The capital of Morocco is Rabat, and its largest city is Casablanca. The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Berber. Moroccan Arabic and French dialects are also very popular. Moroccan identity and culture combine Arabic, Berber, and European cultures. Although the country is rapidly modernizing and the living conditions are improving, it has preserved much of its ancient architecture and even more traditional customs.
The largest city of Morocco and the Atlantic Ocean’s main port is Casablanca, considered one of this country’s industrial and commercial centers. Morocco’s capital, Rabat, is also north of Casablanca on the Atlantic coast.
Flag of Morocco
The flag of Morocco has been chosen as the flag of this country since November 17, 1915. The green star indicates the beginning, and the red background marks the end. The flag of Morocco is a symbol of the country’s opening to the international community.
Population of Morocco
Morocco has about 38 million people, 0.47% of the world’s population. This country is in 40th place in terms of population. 63.8% of the people of this country live in urban areas.
The religion of Morocco
Islam is the official religion of Morocco, and most Moroccans are Sunni Muslims of the Maliki religion. The royal family (Alawi dynasty) has ruled this country since the 17th century based on its claim of legitimacy and its relationship with the Prophet of Islam. Moroccan Muslims respect it because of the prophetic lineage of the royal family. The king of Morocco is called Mohammed VI and is from the Alawite family.
Moroccan economy
Like many former African colonies, Morocco’s economy is heavily dependent on the export of raw materials. Modern tourism and communication sectors are increasingly crucial to the country’s economy. Modern industry makes up more than two-thirds of the gross domestic product (GDP), and about one-third of the country’s workforce is employed.
Since the mid-1980s, the Moroccan government has implemented a program of privatization and economic reforms encouraged by major international lenders such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. These measures include selling off state-owned enterprises, devaluing the currency, and changing pricing policies to encourage domestic production. In 1999, the Moroccan government launched a loan fund to stimulate growth and create competition among small businesses.
Morocco’s sandy beaches, diverse environments, and rich cultural heritage have created tremendous tourism potential, and the government is actively developing it.
Travel to Morocco
In recent years, Morocco has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and the government’s efforts in this field have not been ineffective.
It is for these reasons that tourists from all over the world choose this country for travel:
- They are hot, friendly, and lovely people.
- Rich culture.
- Attractive tourist attractions.
- Types of accommodation.
- Diverse foods are a combination of foods from different cultures.
- Boisterous nightlife and many shopping centers.
Morocco visa
To travel to Morocco, you need to get a tourist visa. Naturally, you cannot work or stay long with this visa. Visa issuance takes about 21 days. The visa’s validity period depends on the duration of your travel tour. You cannot stay in Morocco longer than the duration of the time, and you must enter Morocco on time and leave according to the tour schedule.
Tourist attractions in Morocco
Morocco is popular among tourists because it combines different cultures and has preserved its old attractions. When traveling to Morocco, visit the attractions introduced in this article.
1. The 9th-century city of Meknes
This city attracts the attention of tourists because of its history and attractive architecture. Meknes is located in the north of Morocco and dates back to the 9th century. You can visit old museums, Moulay Idris Pilgrimage City, Mansour Gate, and many other monuments.
2. City of Asila
This city, located on the Atlantic Ocean coast, is a popular tourist summer destination. In addition to sandy beaches, this city is full of beautiful murals. In this city, you can shop in small markets, eat local food in fancy restaurants and visit art galleries.
3. Great Atlas Mountains
This mountain range, the highest in North Africa, is called the mountain of mountains. This paradise is for nature lovers and hikers, especially from spring to autumn. In this area, you can walk and hike in national parks, visit souvenir shops, eat in restaurants, and see the most beautiful views on the Tizi n’Test hiking trail.
4. The city of Suwayra
This city is a great destination to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities. In addition, this city was one of the filming locations of the third season of the Game of Thrones series. For this reason, many fans of this series must visit this city during their trip to Morocco.
This beach town is a popular destination for celebrities. In this city, you can see beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, participate in music festivals, and experience activities such as horse riding, surfing, and kite riding.
5. Chefchaouen month
Also known as the Blue City, this city has become a popular destination for solo travelers. The houses of this city are painted in blue and white colors, and its people are very hospitable. In Chefchaouen, you can experience hiking and swimming in nature. Having a drink in the cafes of the city’s old square and visiting the Ras El Maa waterfall are other attractions of Blue City.
6. Great African Sahara
On a trip to Morocco, one attraction that you should not miss is the Great African Sahara. Every experience in this desert is unique, from watching the sunset over the dunes to seeing the starry sky. In the Great African Sahara, various attractions have been prepared for tourists; Safari in the desert, accompanying camel caravans, interacting with the natives of the region, and participating in group tours.
7. Rabat city
Rabat is the capital of Morocco and is located on the sea coast. This city has good weather for traveling all year round, and its calm beaches are one of the dozens of reasons you should not miss a trip to this city. This city has many attractions for all tourists of all ages and tastes. For example, visiting Hassan Tower for history lovers, buying souvenirs for shopping lovers, and buying local and fresh products.
8. The city of Casablanca
Casablanca is one of the best tourist destinations in Morocco. In this city, you will see an attractive combination of tradition and modernity. The city’s historic buildings with stunning architecture that are a reminder of the French colonial era, along with the traditional Moroccan style, have given the city a special charm. Unique food is another reason why you should visit Casablanca. Visiting the King’s Palace, the Twin Towers of Casablanca, and the old parts of the city is one of the essential activities for tourists in this city.
9. Ouarzazate month
If you love the desert scenes in Hollywood movies, it is interesting that many of them were filmed in this city. Morocco has been a popular destination for Hollywood directors since the 60s, so you have seen scenes from Morocco in many films. In this city, you can visit Atlas Film Studio. One of Ouarzazate’s other attractions is visiting restaurants and shops in the city’s main square.
10. Morocco city
This city is located on the slopes of the Atlas Mountains and is one of the busiest cities in Morocco. Visiting the traditional and dynamic markets and buying Moroccan souvenirs is one of the most important attractions of this city. You can learn a lot about the history and culture of Morocco at the Dar Si Said museum in this city.
11. Tanghir city
This beautiful city is between the Great African Sahara and the Atlas Mountains and is among the best tourist destinations for young couples. This city has a French vibe, narrow streets, beautiful markets, and flower gardens. If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can climb the remains of the 18th-century palace of Glaoui and the surrounding heights in this city. This city also has a handicraft market where you can buy souvenirs. Camel riding is another attraction of Tanghir.
12. Agadir city
After the severe destruction of the 1960 earthquake, this city, which had lost many of its historical attractions, rose again and became one of the most popular cities in Morocco for tourists. The most vital interest of Agadir is the beautiful beach and numerous beach promenades. Visiting the beach, visiting the Souss-Massa National Park, and seeing the Agadir Museum to learn about the history of Morocco are the most important entertainments for tourists in this city.
13. Fez month
Fez is one of the most attractive cities in Morocco to visit. Everything you expect from a 1200-year-old city in the deserts of the Middle East is found in this city. The city’s historical center has narrow, old streets, alleys, and colorful markets. Another sight of the town is Ville Nouvelle Boulevard, whose streets are surrounded by palm trees and have a French style. In this city, you will enjoy staying in luxurious hotels, and you can admire the city’s attractive and mixed architecture.
last word
If you are interested in history and traditional towns, you will enjoy traveling to Morocco. This country is a combination of traditional and modern attractions. Conventional Moroccan architecture and French architecture have given Moroccan cities a unique charm. If you are looking for a different tourist destination, choose Morocco. If you have an experience of traveling to Morocco, share your beautiful travel memories with other “How To” companions in the comments section.