Morocco

• The most popular drink in Morocco is green tea with mint, drunk everywhere and at any time. If someone offers you this drink, refusing it will be frowned upon.
• The highest mountain in the country, and in North Africa, is Mt. Toubkal (4167 m above sea level). In winter, it is covered in snow and has a ski jump
• The tallest Moroccan, and the second tallest man in the world, is Brahim Takioullah, who is 2,46 m tall. He wears size 58 shoes!
• Although the official language of Morocco is Arabic, most Moroccans speak a dialect known as Darija. It is a mix of Arabic, Berber and European languages. You should be able to get by in French without too much trouble, though: until recently, half of school lessons were conducted in French.
• Morocco is an African country with a very young population – most of its inhabitants are under 30 years of age.
• Passing the Matura exam in Morocco is a big celebration, with a big party thrown on the occasion. No wonder – very few students pass it, perhaps because the exam covers 14 subjects
• Although many photos from the Moroccan desert feature picturesque camel caravans, these two- and one-humped animals are by no means the primary means of transport. It is the humble donkey
• The Moroccan flag is a dark red rectangle with a green five-pointed star in the center. The background color refers to the sharifs of Mecca, while the pentagram refers to the five pillars of Islam, the symbol of which is the color green.
• Unlike most European countries, in Morocco the colour of mourning is white, for example, after the death of a spouse, a woman wears white clothes for four months.
• Morocco has an interesting dispute with the Netherlands: both countries believe that they were the first in the world to officially recognize the independence of the United States.
• If you thought that the symbol of love is a heart, then in Morocco you would be wrong. In this country, the attribute of lovers is... the liver, considered a symbol of strength and prosperity. When declaring love, Moroccans say: "You have conquered my liver!"
  
• While it is difficult to understand what the liver has to do with love, it is much easier to explain why sugar is the symbol of happiness and prosperity here.
• Between the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountains is the city of Ouarzazate. It was here that one of the world's largest film studios, Atlas Studio, was founded in the 80s. Hits such as "Gladiator", "Game of Thrones", "Cleopatra", "Kingdom of Heaven" and "Kundun - The Life of the Dalai Lama" were filmed here. However, if you are a fan of the famous "Casablanca" with Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart, we have to disappoint you - this film was not actually filmed in this city, but in the United States.
• Don't be surprised to see many unfinished but inhabited houses - according to Moroccan law, taxes are not paid for unfinished buildings.
• Hot bath? Not necessarily! According to legend, there are genies living near water, and they can't stand boiling water. To avoid angering them, make sure not to pour too hot water into the sink or bathtub!

Morocco is a country that ignites the imagination and tempts with its exoticism – walks through vibrant medinas, the aroma of spices in the air and sunsets over the golden dunes of the Sahara. This is a place where Arab, Berber and European cultures meet, creating a fascinating mosaic of colors, flavors and scents. A trip to Morocco is an unforgettable experience – from royal cities such as Marrakesh, Fez and Meknes, to the picturesque seaside towns of Essaouira and Agadir. You can get lost in the maze of narrow streets, discover hidden riads and enjoy mint tea on the terrace overlooking the minarets and markets full of oriental treasures. Or maybe you want to feel the rhythm of the desert? Set off on camels into the Sahara to spend the night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. If you prefer mountain landscapes, the Great Atlas invites you to trek through charming valleys and Berber villages. Morocco is also a real feast for the palate - from couscous and tagine, to sweet dates and crunchy pastilla. Every bite is a journey through the richness of flavors and culinary traditions that have survived for centuries. Prepare yourself for an exciting adventure and let Morocco enchant you with its mystery, hospitality and oriental charm!

Why is it worth going on holiday to Morocco?

Morocco is a country full of magic that can enchant every traveler. If you are looking for a place where exoticism meets tradition, and diverse landscapes take your breath away, Morocco is the perfect holiday destination. One of the greatest assets of this country is its unique atmosphere. From the first moments you will feel the intense aromas of spices, hear the hypnotizing sounds of traditional music and immerse yourself in the colorful world of local markets. This is a place where everyday life is filled with colors, sounds and flavors that will stay in your memory for a long time. Morocco also delights with its natural diversity. You can admire majestic mountains, traverse golden desert dunes or relax on wide beaches. Everyone will find something for themselves here - both adventure lovers and those who want to relax. You can also try the local cuisine, learn the ceremony of brewing mint tea and discover the secrets of the Orient in the company of warm hosts.

Visiting Morocco – what is worth seeing?

Morocco is a country where the landscapes change like a kaleidoscope – from desert dunes to mountain peaks and seaside cliffs. If you are planning a holiday in Morocco, you will experience an incredible journey through vibrant cities, historic medinas and fabulous landscapes that will remain in your memory for a long time. On every trip to Morocco, a must-see is Marrakesh – a city full of colours, sounds and smells. Walking through its medina, you will come across hidden palaces, beautiful gardens and traditional hammams. The Jemaa el-Fna square is bustling with life from morning till late at night – you will see snake charmers, street artists and smell the local specialities wafting from the stalls. Fez is another place you should definitely visit. Its UNESCO-listed historic medina is a maze of narrow streets where you can get lost, discovering beautiful mosques, historic madrasas and famous tanneries where leather has been dyed using traditional methods for hundreds of years. Fez is considered the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, so it is worth spending more time here.

For nature lovers, a trip to the Atlas Mountains is a great choice. Rugged peaks, green valleys and picturesque Berber villages make it an ideal place for trekking and relaxation in the bosom of nature. In winter, you can even go skiing here! A completely different atmosphere reigns in Essaouira - a seaside town with an artistic soul. White houses with blue shutters, wide beaches and a peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place to relax. Essaouira is also famous for its delicious seafood and strong winds that attract kitesurfing enthusiasts. However, the real pearl of Morocco is the Sahara. When setting off on a desert expedition, you can ride a camel, spend a night in a traditional Berber camp and admire the starry sky that is impossible to see in any city.

Holidays in Morocco – practical information

When planning a holiday in Morocco, it is worth preparing for several important issues that may affect the comfort of your trip. The first important issue is finances. Moroccan dirhams can only be purchased locally, so it is best to take euros, US dollars or British pounds with you. In many places, you can pay with them, but you have to expect that sellers will round the price up. You will find the best exchange rates in banks and currency exchange offices in larger cities - avoid airports and hotels, where the conditions are sometimes less favorable. Card payments are not common, especially if you use American Express. Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs, but watch out for DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion), which is an automatic conversion into złoty, which involves additional fees. It is also worth keeping confirmations from the currency exchange office so that you can easily exchange the rest of your money when you leave.

When holidaying in Morocco, it’s important to be aware of local customs and culture. It’s a Muslim country, which means women should avoid wearing revealing clothing – although covering your hair isn’t required, a headscarf and more modest clothing can reduce the number of teasers. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and eating with your left hand is considered rude. It’s also worth ignoring teasing and not engaging in unwanted conversation – confidence and determination are key to a peaceful visit.

If you plan to travel with professional photography equipment or a drone, a special permit is required. Without it, the devices may be confiscated at the border, and in extreme cases, you may be fined or imprisoned. It is also worth remembering that most mosques are closed to tourists – the exception is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. However, if you decide to visit with a guide, make sure they have a license – only then can you be sure of professional service.

When shopping at local markets, be prepared to haggle. It’s an integral part of Moroccan culture, and no one treats the initial price as the final one. Even if the seller doesn’t speak English, you can communicate using a calculator by entering your own bids.

Morocco is a surprise in terms of climate – it is a “cold country with a hot sun”. This means that temperatures can be very high during the day, but nights can be cool, especially in the desert and mountains. Be sure to pack both light clothing and warmer clothes for the evenings. It is also worth checking whether your trip falls during Ramadan, when many shops and restaurants operate to a limited extent.

It is worth bringing back unique souvenirs from Morocco – spices, leather goods, cosmetics with argan oil, jewellery or traditional clay tagines. If you are planning to rent a car, remember that an international driving licence is generally required, and local drivers drive quite recklessly, which requires special caution. Electrical plugs are the same as in Poland, so you do not need to take adapters.

Night in the Sahara under the starry sky

A night in the Sahara is one of those experiences that are worth having during your holiday in Morocco. It is a unique opportunity to see the desert in its full glory and feel the atmosphere of this extraordinary place. The adventure begins with a camel ride or a jeep through the dunes. It is a great way to admire the landscape and feel what life was like for the old caravans. After reaching the camp, a traditional dinner awaits you - usually tagine with vegetables and meat and sweet mint tea. It is also a moment to listen to local music and learn about the culture of the Berbers, who have inhabited the desert for centuries. However, the biggest attraction is the night sky. There is no artificial lighting in the Sahara, so the stars can be seen more clearly than anywhere else. You can see thousands of stars and the Milky Way, which makes a huge impression. Sleeping in a tent or under the open sky surrounded by sand and silence is a completely different experience than staying in a hotel. In the morning, before dawn, it is worth climbing one of the dunes to see the sunrise. The changing colors of the sand and the rising temperature make the desert look completely different than in the evening. After breakfast, you return on camels to the starting point, ending this unforgettable trip. If you want to experience something unique, staying overnight in the Sahara is a great choice.

A culinary journey through Moroccan flavors

Morocco is a true paradise for food lovers. Aromatic spices, fresh ingredients and unique combinations of flavors make the local cuisine a delight at every turn. During a trip to Morocco, it is worth taking the time to discover local specialties – both in traditional restaurants and in the bustling markets.

The first dish you absolutely must try is tagine – stewed meat (chicken, lamb or beef) with vegetables and spices, served in a characteristic clay pot. Its intense flavour comes from cinnamon, saffron, coriander and ginger. Equally popular is couscous, served most often on Fridays, which is traditionally steamed and served with vegetables and meat. If you like street food, be sure to try pastilla – an unusual combination of sweet and salty flavours. It is crispy filo pastry stuffed with pigeon meat or chicken, almonds, cinnamon and powdered sugar. It is also worth trying harira, an aromatic soup made of lentils, chickpeas and tomatoes, which is particularly popular during Ramadan. While visiting the souk, be sure to try fresh dates, olives, sweet cookies and local nuts. And to end the day – traditional Moroccan mint tea, which is brewed with a lot of sugar.

Discovering medinas and bazaars full of treasures

During your holiday in Morocco, you cannot miss a visit to the medinas – historical parts of cities that hide true cultural wealth. Medinas are labyrinths of narrow, winding streets, full of colourful stalls, shops and workshops, where you will feel like you are in another world. It is the perfect place to feel the spirit of Morocco and discover local crafts, traditions and flavours. The first point on the map of your trip should be the souks, or bazaars, where you will find everything from exotic spices, through leather goods, to handmade carpets. Bargaining is an integral part of this experience, so be prepared to negotiate! Moroccans love the art of haggling, and prices are rarely final. With the help of a calculator, you can easily come to an agreement with local sellers who will be happy to show you their products. In the medinas, you can also find spices, which are the heart of Moroccan cuisine. Cinnamon, saffron, turmeric, ginger – all these aromatic ingredients go perfectly with traditional dishes such as tagine or harira. Leather goods are another attraction – leather bags, shoes, belts and wallets are handmade and impress with their high quality. Carpets, on the other hand, are true works of art – colourful, with intricate patterns, which can become a wonderful souvenir from your trip. Medinas are also a great place to discover local craft workshops, where handicrafts are created – from ceramics, through metalwork, to jewellery. Every corner of the medina is full of history, tradition and fascinating objects waiting to be discovered. It is a real treasure trove of Moroccan treasures, which should not be missed during your holiday in Morocco!

Trekking in the Atlas Mountains and swimming in waterfalls

If you love the outdoors and want to experience Morocco from a natural perspective, trekking in the Atlas Mountains is an absolutely unforgettable adventure that you must experience. These majestic mountains offer spectacular views, wonderful trekking trails and the opportunity to discover an authentic Moroccan village where Berber traditions are still alive. Trek through picturesque gorges, up the slopes where you will find Berber villages where the locals live in harmony with nature and traditions. The Atlas Mountains offer a real diversity of landscapes, from rocky peaks to lush valleys full of vegetation. With every step you will discover not only breathtaking views, but also cultural treasures such as local souks where you can buy handmade items.

After an exhausting trek, nothing will give you more pleasure than a refreshing dip in the waterfalls. One of the most beautiful places on the map of Morocco that are worth visiting are the Ouzoud waterfalls. This is a place where you can cool down, relax with the sound of water, and also admire the natural beauty of this place. The water flowing from the heights creates spectacular views, and a mesmerizing atmosphere of peace spreads around.

Morocco's extensive hotel offerings range from exclusive hotels to traditional riads and unique Bedouin desert retreats. Whatever you choose, you'll be sure to experience an unforgettable experience! Start your Moroccan vacation with a stay at The Oberoi Marrakech, one of the country's most exclusive hotels, located near the vibrant city of Marrakech. Featuring luxurious architecture inspired by Moroccan culture and spacious gardens filled with olive and citrus trees, the hotel offers guests private villas with pools, refined cuisine, and a relaxing spa, providing a unique wellness experience. With breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains and exceptional service, The Oberoi Marrakech is the perfect place for a luxurious getaway. Located in the heart of the historic medina, the five-star Marrakech La Sultana Marrakech hotel offers a relaxing stay. This architectural masterpiece consists of five interconnected riads, traditional Moroccan houses with interior courtyards. The hotel offers elegant rooms and suites decorated in an oriental style, a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, and a luxurious spa. Its location offers easy access to Marrakech's main attractions, such as Jamaâ el-Fna Square, the souks, and the Bahia Palace. And if you're looking for a beach getaway during your Morocco vacation, you can stay at La Sultana Oualidia, a picturesque hotel nestled on the Atlantic Ocean. Located in the small coastal town of Oualidia, the hotel offers stunning views of the lagoon and access to water activities. La Sultana Oualidia boasts an intimate atmosphere and unique décor that blends Moroccan tradition with modern comfort. Guests can also enjoy fresh seafood and relax in the hotel's spa, which uses natural ingredients such as algae and sea salt. A real treat when traveling in Morocco is staying in a traditional riad. These Moroccan houses have been transformed into charming boutique hotels, characterized by interior courtyards with fountains, lush vegetation, and Arabesque decorations. Riads offer guests an intimate atmosphere and an authentic experience of Moroccan culture. Many are located in historic parts of cities like Marrakesh and Fez, allowing tourists to experience the atmosphere of bygone times. And for those seeking a true Moroccan adventure, Bedouin desert camps are the perfect solution. They offer accommodations in luxurious tents equipped with comfortable beds and traditional rugs. Guests can admire the sunset over the Saharan dunes, enjoy dinner by the fire, and listen to live music performed by nomads. A stay in the desert offers not only comfort but also the opportunity to experience the exceptional silence and magic of the desert landscape.

Your trip to Morocco wouldn't be complete without a visit to Marrakesh, known as the "Red City" for the color of its buildings. Strolling through the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll immerse yourself in a maze of narrow streets lined with colorful souks where vendors sell handicrafts, spices, and textiles. The city's focal point is the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, bustling with activity at all hours of the day and night, where you'll encounter acrobats, musicians, and snake charmers. Also worth visiting is the Jardin Majorelle, an oasis of peace and greenery in the heart of the city. Fez is the oldest of Morocco's four royal cities, considered the spiritual and cultural heart of the country. The medina of Fez, known as Fes el-Bali, is a veritable labyrinth of over 9,000 streets where time seems to stand still. Here you'll find the world's oldest university, Al-Qaraouine, founded in 859. Walking through the medina, you'll come across traditional tanneries where leather dyed with natural pigments has been produced for centuries. Hidden in the Rif Mountains, this town Chefchaouen It captivates with the blue hues of its buildings. It's the perfect place to relax and stroll through the picturesque streets, where every corner is worth capturing in a photograph. The atmosphere of tranquility and the hospitality of the locals will make you feel right at home. If you're dreaming of a moment of respite by the Atlantic Ocean, Essaouira is the perfect choice. This charming city attracts artists, musicians, and surfers from around the world. Strolling through the UNESCO-listed medina, you'll experience a blend of Arab, Berber, and European cultures. The famous fortifications and fishing port with its characteristic blue boats are worth seeing. On the edge of the Sahara lies the Ksar of Ait Benhaddou – a fortified settlement built of red clay, which has often served as a film set for Hollywood productions. Walking through its narrow streets, you'll be transported back in time and experience the magic of ancient Morocco. For nature and trekking enthusiasts, the Atlas Mountains offer unforgettable views and the opportunity to learn about the culture of the Berbers, the indigenous inhabitants of this region. Hiking to the highest peak in North Africa – Jebel Toubkal (4 m above sea level) – is a challenge that will provide many experiences. You can't leave Morocco without experiencing a night in the desert. Near Merzouga, you'll find the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes, which take on incredible colors at sunset. A night spent in a traditional nomadic tent under a starry sky is an experience that will long be remembered. Although Rabat is the capital of Morocco, it is often overlooked by tourists. This peaceful city offers many attractions, such as the Oudaya Kasbah with its picturesque streets and gardens, and the Hassan Tower – an unfinished minaret dating back to the 167th century. Strolling along Rabat's modern boulevards, you'll experience a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. If you're looking for a relaxing place away from the crowds, Oualidia is the perfect choice. This small town is famous for its beautiful lagoon, perfect for swimming and water sports. It's also a paradise for seafood lovers—the local oysters are considered some of the best in the world. Morocco's largest city, Casablanca, is a pulsating business and cultural center. The Hassan II Mosque is worth visiting—one of the largest in the world, with a 210-meter-high minaret. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife, numerous restaurants, and shops where tradition meets modernity.

Morocco is an incredibly diverse country – from harsh deserts to green valleys, from bustling cities to quiet seaside resorts. Choosing a region to travel to depends on what you are looking for: adventure, culture, nature or relaxation. Here are some less obvious but incredibly interesting places to consider. If you are fascinated by desert landscapes and want to experience the life of nomads, southern Morocco is the perfect choice. It is worth visiting Zagora, a small town surrounded by palm groves, which is the starting point for expeditions to the Sahara. This is where the famous "52-day journey to Timbuktu" begins, a journey once made by merchants on camels. A little further south is M'Hamid, the last settlement before the vast sands of the desert. This is a less touristy alternative to Merzouga, offering a more authentic experience. Here you can take part in camel caravans or drive across the dunes in an off-road vehicle. For those who enjoy mountain hiking and less traveled trails, the Anti-Atlas region is the ideal place. Unlike the much more famous Atlas Mountains, this southern mountain range is rugged and almost lunar. Tafraoute is one of the most beautiful towns in this region, surrounded by picturesque rock formations in shades of red and orange. Here you can admire the "Blue Rocks" – surreal, blue-painted boulders created by Belgian artist Jean Vérame. Located south of Ouarzazate, the Draa Valley is the longest river valley in Morocco and one of the most picturesque places in the country. Unlike the arid deserts around it, the valley is green and full of date palms, and its landscape is dotted with traditional kasbahs – fortified clay settlements. It is worth stopping in Tamnougalt to feel the atmosphere of old Morocco and visit one of the best-preserved kasbahs in the country. If you want to take a break from the crowds of tourists and discover lesser-known coastal spots in Morocco, head to the northern coast. Al-Huceima, located on the Mediterranean Sea, is one of Morocco's best-kept secrets. The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in the country and the water is crystal clear. You can also visit the nearby Al Hoceima National Park, full of cliffs and picturesque coves. If you prefer places with history, it is worth going to Asili, a small town with Andalusian influences, where the white of the houses contrasts with the blue mosaics. In the summer, the famous Cultural Festival takes place here, attracting artists from all over the world. The Central Atlas is a region completely different from the rest of Morocco – full of forests, mountain lakes, and a cooler climate. Ifrane, known as "Little Switzerland", surprises with its European architecture and cleanliness. It is one of the few places in Africa where it snows in winter, attracting skiers to the nearby Michlifen ski resort. Nearby is Azrou, a town surrounded by dense cedar forests inhabited by Barbary macaques – the only monkeys living in the wild in North Africa. It is worth going trekking in Ifrane National Park to admire the majestic trees and waterfalls. If you are fascinated by Moroccan crafts, be sure to visit Tiznit, famous for its jewelry. It is here that the most beautiful silver ornaments, decorated with traditional Berber patterns, are created. Tiznit is also a great base for trips to nearby Legzira, one of the most spectacular beaches in Morocco, where monumental rock arches create a unique landscape.