12-Nights The Best Of Morocco: Tangiers, Chefchaouen, Fes & More

Marrakech

Marrakech, known as the "Pearl of the South," is an oasis in southwestern Morocco at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, with rose-colored ramparts and a thousand year old palm grove. Sumptuous and exuberant, it radiates splendor and mysticism and casts a magic spell on all who visit. Marrakesh has the largest berber market (souk) in Morocco and also hosts the busiest square in Africa. Founded in 1062 as the capital of the Almoravid dynasty, it continued in the 12th century as capital of the Almohads. Marrakech remained a political, economic and cultural center for a long period. Its influence was felt throughout the western Muslim world, from North Africa to Andalusia. Marrakech also became known as a magnet for some of the greatest saints of Islam, many of whom are buried within the city. Marrakech, like Fez, is a genuinely Islamic city in both its genesis and traditions. Marrakech has impressive monuments dating from that period: the Koutoubiya Mosque, the Kasbah, the battlements, monumental doors and gardens. Other architectural jewels include the Bandia Palace, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Saadian Tombs and Place Jamaa El Fna, an open-air theater. The modern city was constructed in 1913 during the French occupation of the country and reflects the European influence. But the essence of the city remains the same.

Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is located in a valley at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains and is at the center of Sahara Desert tourism. The city is also the film capital of Morocco and was used to shoot many famous films with desert scenes. Ouarzazate boasts many luxury hotels, expensive restaurants, and shops. The recently restored Kasbah is also worth visiting and has been used as a movie set.

Erfoud

Erfoud is a French-build administrative town built in the thirties. The town, with its dusty red buildings, has a ghost town atmosphere but is surrounded by some of the best scenery in Morocco. Erfoud is not a typical tourist destination, but a good number of travelers from all over the world fill the streets almost all through the year. The two main attractions in Erfoud are the date festival and the marble industry. Erfoud can work as a good base for people exploring the Ziz valley and the beautiful dunes out at Merzouga. You may even be lucky enough to experience a sandstorm - a totally surreal experience!

Fes (Fez)

Fes (Fez) has been the capital of Morocco for more than 400 years and is home to the oldest university in the country and the leading cultural and religious center. Fes is also the home of the oldest and largest medieval city in the world, a city that has remained almost unchanged through the modern ages and still very alive. Today Fes has its own culture, pride, art and cuisine. Bustling with artisans and merchants, its captivating sounds, fragrances and colors mesmerize the visitor with a constant swirl of activity.

Chefchaouen

This picturesque town 50 mi/80 km southeast of Tangier in the Rif Mountains has more atmosphere than sights. Walk around the small medina with its light-blue-painted walls and drink tea at the main plaza. The main sight is the casbah with its enclosed garden and small museum.

The town hosts the annual Alegria Festival, a music festival that draws numerous visitors to enjoy the special backdrop for concerts.

A half-day stop or a one-night stay is sufficient.

Tangier

The "Gateway to Africa," located at its northwestern tip, Tangier is a fashionable resort retaining its age-old mystery and excitement. French and Islamic influences meet and merge in this fascinating old city. Mosques and minarets overlook the shadowy streets of the bazaar, while the higher part of town, with its broad boulevards and lovely parks, looks down on the ocean.

Rabat

Rabat is the political and administrative capital of Morocco as well as the King's official residence, The Royal Palace. Across from the Royal Palace is the king's own mosque which is a wonderful example of Islamic architecture.

The city of Rabat is very clean and boasts both old Muslim quarters and beautiful remains of all periods of Moroccan history. The Oudaia Gate dates back to the Almonca Period. Its purpose is said to be ceremonial; the sight is beautiful. Another attraction, The Kasbah des Oudaia is both beautiful and peaceful. The Andalucian Gardens belong to the 20th century and boast the Museum of Moroccan Arts. Most of the houses in Rabat are painted white and have blue painted parapets.