Zagora is a town situated in the Souss-Massa-Drâa region of Morocco, between 30°19′50″ N latitude and 5°50′17″ W longitude. The town of Zagora is located in the valley of the River Draa, enclosed by the mountain Zagora. Due to its position in the mountain region, Zagora receives a substantial number of tourists, highly nature and embark sport lovers, throughout the year. Zagora is also the site of the two international events, the Nomads Festival and the Zagora Marathon. “Tombouctou 52 days” is a sign at the border of Zagora, welcoming tourists in a great manner.

Etymology of Zagora:

Zagora got its name from the mountain with same name surrounding the town. Tazagourt was the former name of Zagora.

How to get Zagora?

Zagora hosts an airport but flights are not regular. The closest airport to Zagora is Ouarzazate Airport, which is located around 120 km away from Zagora and operates flights from and to Casablanca, El Aaiún, Paris, Agadir and Casablanca. There are taxis generally available at Ouarzazate Airport that take around 2 hours from Ouarzazate to Zagora. Buses are also accessible.

Zagora is connected to Marrakech by direct bus services, taking around 8 hours.

Small taxis are highly used for local travel in Zagora that cost Dh 3 per person to move within the town.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Zagora:

Zagora is famous for the Zagora Marathon and the Nomads Festival, which are very much popular in Southern Morocco. Silver jewelry and firewood items are the purchasable items in Zagora.

List of the major restaurants in Zagora include:

• Restaurante Des Amis
• Dromadaire Gourmand
• Ennakhile
• Chameau gourmand

What to do in Zagora?

• Loud Sahara Day Tours
• Iguidi Tours
• Trek Morocco Desert Day Tours
• Shopping
• Walking

Tourist Attractions in Zagora:

Mount Zagora:

The Mount Zagora is a mountain, surrounding the town of Zagora, famous among tourists for climbing. Visitors can also spot the ruins of the Almoravid fortress at the mountain. From this mountain, the town Zagora got its name.

“Timbuktu 52 days”:

“Timbuktu 52 days” is a sign at the border of Zagora, known for its nice design and surrounding environment.

Garden of Auberge Restaurant Chez Ali:

Auberge Restaurant Chez Ali is one of the major restaurants in Zagora. More than its menus, the restaurant is famous for its striking garden.

Tamegroute:

Tamegroute is a small village, situated around 18 km south of Zagora. The village is well known for its popular ancient library that houses a great collection of books on different subject, including Morocco’s history.

Zagora Markets:

Zagora is home to a many nice open air traditional market, where visitors can bag everything from food to silver jewelry to firewood items.

List of other places of interest in Zagora includes:

• Amassakoul
• Tinfou Dunes
• Caravane Du Grand Erg
• Hassi Labiad
• Vallee du Draa
• Legzira Beach
• Erg Chigaga
• Gorges du Dades
• Vallee d’Ait Mansour
• Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
• Kasbah du Pacha el Glaoui
• Agadir Beach
• Carve Surf Morocco
• Taghazout Beach
• Agadir Oufella Ruins

Best time to visit Zagora:

Between October and May is the ideal time to visit Zagora in Morocco, while the weather in condition.

Accommodation options in Zagora:

Although being small in size, Zagora houses several standard tourist favor accommodation centres with amenities like spa, sauna, fitness centre, food on request, doctor on call service and arrangement of vehicle for day tours. Some reputed hotels in Zagora in Morocco include:

• Riad Lamane
• Hotel la Palmeraie
• Le Sauvage Noble
• Hotel Tabarkat
• Kasbah Hotel Sahara Sky
• Palais Asmaa
• La Perle du Draa
• Ksar Tinsouline
• Hotel Reda
• Riad Salam Hotel
• Villa Zagora
• Azalai Desert Lodge
• Riad dar Sofian
• La Petite Kasbah
• Les Jardins Du Draa

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Tetouan is a Moroccan city located on the Mediterranean Sea in northern Morocco. It is situated around 60 km south of another important port city on the country’s Mediterranean coastline, Tangier. Tetouan is one of the recognized tourist destinations of Morocco, dominated by its Medina or old city, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its kasbah and mosques are also famous among tourists. The highest elevation of Tetouan measures 205 meters, while its geographical coordinates are 35°34′ N 5°22′ W. Tetouan features a Mediterranean climate with cool and rainy winter and hot and dry summer.

History of Tetouan:

According to the documented history, Tetouan was founded in the late 13th century. Tetouan began to develop at the beginning of the 14^th century with a large building project by the Marinid king Abu Thabit in 1305. Tetouan was under the Spanish rule from 1913 to 1956 when Morocco’s independence was declared.

Connectivity to Tetouan:

Tetouan is situated around 270 km northeast of Rabat, the capital of Morocco and around 360 km northeast of the Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca.

Tetouan is served by Sania Ramel Airport with scheduled flights from Amsterdam, Al Hoceima and Casablanca and seasonal flights from Liège. The airport is situated around 5 km away from the city centre.

Petite taxis and grand taxis are the convenient mode of transportation options to get around Tetouan.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Tetouan:

Tetouan is home to a museum, called Musee d’Archeologie a Tetouan, which showcases the complete archeological and cultural history of Tetouan with well preserved objects.

There are dozens of shops in Tetouan, most are in medina and some recommended restaurants in Tetouan include:

• El Reducto
• Restaurant Restinga
• Blanco Riad
• Ali Baba

Things to do in Tetouan:

• Shopping
• Visiting old Kasbah
• City tours

What to see in Tetouan?

The medina (old town) of Tétouan:

The medina (old town) of Tétouan is the highlight of the city, featuring three sections like the Jewish, the Berber and the Andalusian secions. The medina is small but very beautiful, very clean and houses many attractive white houses.

The Royal Palace of Tetouan:

The Royal Palace of Tetouan is one of the gateways to the medina. The palace itself holds nice interior and exterior designs, attracting a large number of tourists.

Mohammed V Avenue:

Mohammed V Avenue in Tetouan is packed with full of tourist shops, restaurants, cafes and book stores. It usually gets crowded during the evening by both locals and visitors.

Riad Al Ochak:

Riad Al Ochak or The Lovers’ Garden is one of the landmark sites of Tetouan. This garden is similar in construction to the gardens of Granada in Spain. Very beautiful and pleasant.

Tétouan Church:

The Tétouan church is a charming dark yellow colored church, reserved for small Christian community in the city. The tidiness of the church and its surrounding is very much impressive.

List of other places of interest in and around Tetouan includes:

• Musee d’Archeologie a Tetouan
• The old city
• Chefchaouen Old City
• Asilah Medina
• Dalia Beach
• Cascades d’Akchour
• Tangier Casbah
• Medina of Tangier
• Puerto de Assilah
• Paradise Beach
• Hercules Cave
• Tangier Beach
• Parc Perdicaris
• Museum of Moroccan Arts in Tangier

When to visit Tetouan?

Probably the best time to visit Tetouan is during the months between May and September.

Where to stay in Tetouan?

Tetouan is the site of many star rated hotels that have a great hand in serving both tourists and professionals visiting the city, with a blend of all modern and traditional Moroccan amenities. Free Wi-Fi is a common facility in all hotels of the city. The prominent hotels in Tetouan are:

• Hotel Atenas
• La Paloma
• Club Med Yasmina
• Blanco Riad Hotel & Restaurant
• Panorama Vista Hotel
• Hotel Golden Beach
• Kabila Hotel
• Marina Smir Thalasso & Spa
• Hotel El Yacouta
• Hostel La Gacela
• Hotel Marina
• Hotel-Chams
• Riad Dalia Tetouan
• Riad Dar Achaach
• Riad El Reducto

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Sidi Ifni is a port city, located on the coastline of Atlantic Ocean, belonging to the Sidi Ifni Province in the Souss-Massa-Drâa region of Morocco. It is in the southern part of the country, situated between 29°23′ N latitude and 10°10′ W longitude, around 400 km southwest of the city of Marrakech and 600 km southwest of the country’s largest city, Casablanca. The economy of Sidi Ifni is centered on its port, specifically on fishing. Sidi Ifni houses a limited number of tourist attractions, notably beaches, mosques and administrative budlings.

History of Sidi Ifni:

People belonging to Ait Baamrane tribe are the main settlers of Sidi Ifni, who are in the region from the historic period. Sidi Ifni was conquered by the Spanish in 1476 and ruled until 1524 when Saadian rulers occupied Sidi Ifni. During the Spanish, Sidi Ifni had a name of Santa Cruz de la Mar Pequeña. Sidi Ifni also witnessed the French rule from 1912 to 1956.

How to reach Sidi Ifni?

The Sidi Ifni Airport is catered by Casa Air Service, which connects Sidi Ifni to Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier through scheduled flight services.

The prominent international airport, Agadir Al Massira Airport is situated around 150 km away from Sidi Ifni, covering many European destinations, including London, Helsinki, Paris, and Amsterdam. There are regular buses plying between Sidi Ifni and Agadir.

The local transportation of Sidi Ifni is upgraded, served by buses, rental cars and taxis.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Sidi Ifni:

Chleuhs and Arabs form the greater percentage of Sidi Ifni population. Shops are abundant in Sidi Ifni, both traditional and modern options. Here are some famous restaurants in Sidi Ifni:

• Caf’e Restaurant Mar Pequena
• la Paella de la Playa
• Restaurant Gran Canaria

What to do in Sidi Ifni?

• Surfing
• Swimming
• Kite boarding

Tourist Attractions in Sidi Ifni:

Legzira beach:

The Legzira Beach is one of the prime tourist attractions of Sidi Ifni, dominated by the naturally formed rock formation. The beach is also famous among visitors for swimming, surfing and kite boarding.

The governor’s palace of Sidi Ifni:

The governor’s palace of Sidi Ifni is one of the major landmarks as well as tourist attractions of the city. The building features a blend of white and blue colors, surrounded by systematically planted palm trees.

Sidi Ifni Mosque:

Sidi Ifni houses many nicely built mosques with historical importance. There is a mosque located on the road leading to the city that is frequented by visitors other than devotees.

Sidi Ifni Airport:

The Sidi Ifni Airport is a modern and well constructed airport, situated within the city premise, not more than a kilometer away from the city centre. The airport is located around 58 meter above sea level and features all basic facilities.

List of other places of interest in Sidi Ifni and Agadir (around 200 km) includes:

• Chez Casso
• Museum Municipal du Patrimoine Amazigh
• Mohammed V Mosque
• Valley of the Birds
• Musée Bert Flint
• Imouzzer Ida Ou Tanane
• The city of Taroudant
• The Souss-Massa National Park
• Musee Municipal de Agadir
• La Medina d’Agadir
• Mosque Loubnan in Agadir
• Musée de Talborjt “La Casbah”
• The garden of Ibn Zaidoun

Best time to visit Sidi Ifni:

Undoubtedly, the summer months are recommended to visit Sidi Ifni, when the weather will be supportive for beach exploration and other outdoor activities.

Accommodation options in Sidi Ifni:

Being a beach city, Sidi Ifni houses many upgraded accommodation centres like hotels, vacation rentals, BB and inns. Apart from having healthy hospitality services at Sidi Ifni’s hotels, visitors can also take a variety of mouthwatering Moroccan and international delicacies. List of the major hotels in Sidi Ifni include:

• Le Beachclub
• Hotel Ait Baamrane
• Hotel Safa
• Auberge Beach Club Legzira
• Eddib
• Hotel Bellevue
• Suerte Loca
• Xanadu
• Logis La Marine
• Auberge Sable D’Or
• Chez Abdoul
• Hotel Idou Tiznit
• Hotel Lijdiguen
• L’Arganier D’Ammelne
• Kasbah Tabelkoukt

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Safi is a Moroccan city, situated in the western part of the country on the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, around 150 km northwest of the tourism capital of Morocco, Marrakesh and 230 km southwest of the Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca. It is the administrative centre of the Doukkala-Abda Region, visited by tourists from all around the country, mainly for its beaches and traditional Moroccan market in the medina of the city. Fishing is the backbone of Safi’s economy, dominated by the sardine fishing industry. Safi is geographically positioned between 32°17′ N latitude and 9°14′ W longitude.

History of Safi:

Safi, also pronounced as Asfl, which is derived from the local Berber language, meaning ‘flood’. The original foundation date of Safi is uncertain and the city came under the Portuguese rule in 1488 and remained until 1541. Following the Portuguese departure, Safi developed as one of the biggest seaports of Morocco as its position near Morocco’s then capital, Marrakech.

Getting Safi:

There is no airport in Safi, so international tourists are needed to reach either Mogador Airport (135 km) or Marrakech Menara Airport (160 km), of which the latter airport is one of the important airports in Morocco, covering all the important European cities.

The bus transportation of Safi extends to all the major Moroccan cities, including Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech.

To move within the city, buses are generally available, though, for comfortable travel, visitors can hire a car for a day or week.

Shopping and Food in Safi:

The central medina is the ideal place for traditional shopping in Safi, where visitors can bag items like traditional clothes, handicraft products and jewelry at affordable price.

Some tourist favor restaurants in Safi include:

• Auberge du Cheval Blanc
• Riad du Pecheur
• La Trattoria
• Restaurant Moukhlis Fish

Things to do in Safi:

• Surfing
• Tour of Medina
• Shopping

Places to see in Safi:

Medina of Safi:

Like most cities in Morocco, Safi is also famous for its Medina or old town, which is mainly noted for traditional Moroccan market. The market is well known for a variety of local specialties like handicraft products, clothes and jewels.

Beach of Safi:

Safi is home to a nice beach line, frequented by water sport lovers, especially surfers, during summer months. There are also many several modernized restaurants and cafes located on the beach. Souiria Beach is the most famous beach in Safi.

Seaport of Safi:

The seaport of Safi is one of the largest of Morocco, with continuous operation, mainly sardine fishing and also exports products like phosphates, textiles and ceramics in larger proportion. The port can be reached by a rental vehicle from the city centre.

Marrakech:

Marrakech is the capital of Morocco’s tourism, situated around 150 km away from Safi. Everything can be seen in Marrakech, including museums, palaces, gardens, churches and mosques. Buses are regular between Marrakech and Safi. Worth a trip.

Other places of interest in Safi and Marrakech (around 150 km) include:

• Djemaa El-Fna
• La Palmeraie
• Majorelle Gardens
• Koutoubia Mosque
• Dar Si Saïd Museum
• El Badi Palace
• Rahba Kedima Square
• Maison Tiskiwin
• Menara Gardens
• El Bahia Palace
• Miaara Jewish Cemetery
• Ben Youssef Madrassa
• Jardin Majorelle

Best time to visit Safi:

From March to September is the ideal time to visit Safi, especially between May and August, when surfing can be enjoyed best in Safi in Morocco.

Accommodation Options in Safi:

There are hotels limited in number in Safi, around 20, of which most offer advance booking facility through online for visitors’ convenience. Some recommended hotels in Safi are listed below:

• Hotel Assif
• Hotel Riad Asfi
• Abda Hotel
• Les Mimosas
• Hotel Atlantide
• Golden Tulip Farah Safi
• Cmkd Safi
• Atlantique Panorama
• Riad du Pecheur Safi
• Riad Le Cheval Blanc
• Dar Yasmine
• Riad Safi
• Riad Leila Chambre d’hotes
• Hotel Majestic
• Safi Surf Camp

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Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, situated on the Atlantic Ocean coastline and it also functions as the administrative centre of the Rabat-Salé-Zemmour-Zaer region. It is located around 90 km northeast of the Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca. Rabat was honored with an award by CNN as the 2^nd “Top Travel Destinations of 2013”. The city of Rabat covers an area of 117 sq. km, while its highest elevation measures 135 meters. Rabat coordinates with 34°02′ N latitude and 6°50′ W longitude. Rabat holds many renowned tourist attractions, of which the landmark sites are the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, Hassan Tower and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

History of Rabat:

Rabat is relatively a younger city compared to other Moroccan cities, founded by the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu’min in 1146. The name of Rabat may be the modified form of the title Ribatu l-Fath (‘stronghold of victory’), indicating its importance in the Almohad’s wars in the second half of the 12^th century. Along with the rest of Morocco, Rabat also witnessed the rule of the French during the first half of the 20^th century.

How to get Rabat?

Rabat is served by Rabat-Salé Airport, with international flights from Paris, Amsterdam, Tripoli, Madrid, London, Brussels and Jeddah. The airport is located around 8 km away from the city centre, which can be crossed by taxi (around 15 euro) or airport bus shuttle.

Rabat can be reached by train from Casablanca (around 1 hour), Fez (about 2.5 hours) and Marrakesh (around 4 hour). The bus network of Rabat also covers all three above cities.

Culture, Shopping and Food in Rabat:

The Theatre Mohamed V is the biggest cultural centre in Rabat and the city is also home to many active cultural organizations, including Orient-Occident Foundation and ONA Foundation.

Specialty shops in Rabat can be found at Rue des Consuls, medina and Agdal and there is a mall by the name MegaMall, with bowling and an ice rink facilities.

Restaurants can be found anywhere in Rabat and tourist favor options are located at Old Medina.

Things to do in Rabat:

• Visiting spas
• Exploring beaches
• City tours

Places to see in Rabat:

Mausoleum of Mohammed V:

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V is the site of the tombs of the renowned Moroccan king Mohammed V and his two sons. The building features the modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, was constructed in 1971. It is worth a visit.

Hassan Tower:

Hassan Tower in Rabat is situated on the opposite side of the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and its height reaches up to 44 meters. This iconic minaret with mosque was the dream project of Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour, but due to the death of the sultan in 1996, the project was stopped and later only minaret was completed.

Chellah:

Chellah is the old city of Rabat, founded by Carthaginians and it later came under the Roman and Arab rule. Now it is an abandoned site, although, allowed for visitors until 5:30 PM from morning. Entrance fee is 10 MAD.

Rabat Archaeological Museum:

Inaugurated in 1932, the Rabat Archaeological Museum holds a large collection of archeological artifacts found in the different regions of Morocco. Artifacts dating from Pre-Roman and Roman civilizations are highlights here.

Kasbah of the Udayas:

The Kasbah of the Udayas is a fortified site in Rabat, located at the gateway of the River Bou Regreg. It was constructed by the Almohads on the destroyed site of the Almoravids’s kasbah. Currently the Kasbah features a mosque, a palace and many other attractive historic houses.

Other places of interest in Rabat include:

• Medina of Rabat
• Zoo de Rabat
• Andalusian Gardens
• Royal Palace of Rabat
• Cathedrale Saint-Pierre
• Plage de Rabat
• The Currency Museum of the Bank Al-Maghrib
• Exotic Gardens of Rabat Sale
• Russian Orthodox Church
• Les Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel
• Rabat Old Town
• Oudaia Museum

Best time to visit Rabat:

Rabat experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild and temperate climate year round and the ideal time to visit Rabat is from May to August.

Accommodation options in Rabat:

Rabat is a city for all types of tourists with all sorts of well facilitated accommodation centre. Nice budget options can be found at the Old Medina of the city. Some reputed hotels in Rabat are as follows:

• Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses
• Riad Kalaa
• Villa Mandarine
• Hotel la Tour Hassan
• Dar Zouhour
• Villa des Ambassadors
• Riad Dar El Kebira
• Le Soundouss Hotel
• Le Diwan Rabat
• Le Pietri Urban Hotel
• Belere Rabat
• Hotel Dohrmi
• Mercure Rabat Sheherazade
• Rihab Hotel Rabat
• Ibis Moussafir Rabat

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Ouarzazate is the capital city of the Ouarzazate Province in the southern-central part of the northwestern African country, Morocco. It falls under the Souss-Massa-Drâa region, located around 1,160 metres meters above sea level, between 30°55′ N latitude and 6°55′ W longitude. Ouarzazate is located towards the south of the High Atlas Mountains, around 200 km southeast of Marrakech and 430 km north-northwest of Casablanca, the largest city of Morocco.

Ouarzazate itself is one of the top holiday destinations in Morocco and also situated close to the village, called Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ouarzazate is also renowned as the shooting location for many Hollywood movies, including The Mummy and Gladiator.

History of Ouarzazate:

Ouarzazate got its name from the Berber language, in which Ouarzazate means ‘without noise’. Until the French colonization, Ouarzazate was at the back door and it came to front door during French period, becoming a garrison town and customs post.

How to reach Ouarzazate?

Ouarzazate hosts an airport with the scheduled flights from Casablanca, El Aaiún, Paris, Agadir, Casablanca, Zagora and seasonal flights from Luxembourg. The distance of 5 km from the airport to Ouarzazate city centre can easily be crossed by bus or taxi or more conveniently by a pre-booked car.

It costs around 80 dirham from Marrakesh to Ouarzazate by CTM buses. Red petit taxis and Machi Car Rental are the options to get around Ouarzazate other than buses.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Ouarzazate:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ait Benhaddou is a fortified village within Ouarzazate. The city is also home to two popular film studious, CLA Studios and Atlas Studios.

Ouarzazate is famous for carpets and other handicraft products. Restaurants are abundant in Ouarzazate, cheaper options can be found at Mohammad V Street and in Central Square.

What to do in Ouarzazate?

• Travel Exploration Morocco tour
• Morocco Desert Tour
• Desert Dream Day Tours
• Sahara 4×4 viajes tour
• Shopping
• Walking

What to see in Ouarzazate?

Ait Benhaddou:

Ait Benhaddou is the first preference of visitors coming to Ouarzazate. It is a fortified village, located in the west of Ouarzazate, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its eye-catching well preserved architectural features. It will be a memorable day trip for visitors.

Atlas Studios:

Atlas Studios is a popular movie studio in Ouarzazate, served many English movies like Mission Cleopatra, The Man Who Would Be King, Kingdom of Heaven Gladiator and Alexander. Admission fee for visitors is 50 dirham. The studio is situated 4 km away from the heart of the city.

Oasis de Fint:

Oasis de Fint is a picturesque site located in the centre of the dry hills, close to Ouazarzate. The area is rich in vegetation, which  takes around a half day to explore. There is also a restaurant.

CLA Studios:

The CLA Studios is located on the road leading to Atlas Studios. This studio is mainly used for TV movies and serials. It is located around 7 km west of the centre of Ouarzazate. Admission fee is 100Dh.

Other places of interest in and around Ouarzazate include:

• Kasbah Amridil
• Musee Theatre Memoire de Ouarzazate
• Jebel Sahro
• Taourirt Kasbah
• Labyrinthe Du Sud

When to visit Ouarzazate?

Ouarzazate generally experiences a hot and dry summer and very cold winter and the tour of Ouarzazate can be enjoyed best during any month among March, April, May, October and November.

Where to stay in Ouarzazate?

Like the most Moroccan cities, Ouarzazate also holds a grand hospitality industry with more than 100 standard accommodation centres with a blend of modern and traditional facilities. Some such prominent hotels in Ouarzazate are given below:

• Hotel Sultana Royal Golf
• Dar Ahlam
• Le Petit Riad
• Auberge La Terrasse des Delices
• Dar Kamar
• Les Tourmalines
• Hotel La Gazelle
• Hotel Les 5 Lunes
• Hotel marmar
• Kasbah Ait Abou Restaurant Auberge
• Ibis Moussafir Ouarzazate
• Les Jardins de Ouarzazate
• Zaghro Hotel
• Hotel Restaurant la Kasbah de Dades
• Le Berbere Palace

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Marrakech, also spelled Marrakesh, is a city and the capital of Marrakesh-Tensift-El Haouz region of Morocco, geographically positioned at 31°37′48″ N 8°0′32″ W. It is not merely a city but also holds many important titles behind it such as the cultural capital, the tourism capital, the historic capital and the 4^th largest city of Morocco. Marrakech is located at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, around 230 km southwest of the country’s largest city, Casablanca and 320 km southwest of Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The tourism of Marrakesh is focused on its old fortified city or medina, which is the site of many top class historic palaces and mosques.

History of Marrakech:

The history of Marrakech is very long, sublime and strong.  Marrakech has been inhabited since the Neolithic times, initiated by Berber farmers. The credit of the foundation of Marrakesh goes to Abu Bakr ibn Umar, who founded the city impressively in 1062. There is no certain theory about the origin of the name Marrakech, although one theory claims that, the name of Marrakech is the combined form of the Berber language words mur and akush.

Getting Marrakech:

Getting Marrakech would not be a difficult task for visitors as the city hosts an international airport with the scheduled flights from all the important European cities, including London, Paris and Madrid. The airport is situated around 7 km southwest of the downtown Marrakesh.

Marrakech is one of the few cities of Morocco to be served by train. The train service links Marrakesh to Casablanca, Fes and Rabat. CTM, Pullman du sud and Supratours are the recommended bus operators connecting Marrakech to the rest of Morocco.

Culture, Shopping and Food in Marrakech:

The Marrakech Museum is the place where tourists can get the complete package of Marrakech’s tourism as the building itself a great attraction and also houses a wide collection of objects displaying the city’s culture.

The Djemaa El-Fna is the central market of Marrakech, where visitors can bag everything including precious local artworks.

Marrakech is famous for cuisine, holding dozens of international and traditional restaurants all around the city.

What to do in Marrakech?

• Visiting spas
• Arenas 4×4 Tours
• 4X4 Camel tours
• Toubkal Guide Day Tours

What to see in Marrakech?

La Palmeraie:

La Palmeraie is a popular tourist spot outside the Marrakech city, home to around 150,000 palm trees and many typical traditional hotels in the area of 13,000 hectares. This site is also famous among visitors for camel ride.

Djemaa El-Fna:

Djemaa El-Fna is a colorful square in the centre of the old town or medina of Marrakech. This square is famous for the presence of local musicians, dancers, story tellers and vendors. The square turns into a paradise during night.

Koutoubia Mosque:

The Koutoubia Mosque is close to the square of Djemaa El-Fna, dominated by the minaret that is compared to the Eiffel Tower of Paris. It is great to see minaret during night. Non Muslim visitors are not allowed inside, but one can have the beauty of the mosque from outside.

Majorelle Gardens:

Comparing other tourist attractions in Marrakech, the Majorelle Gardens is more expensive, MAD50 entrance fee. Other than hundreds of plant and flower species, including cactus species, the garden also features a small Berber Museum and Majorelle Café.

Dar Si Saïd Museum:

The Dar Si Saïd Museum is a museum, focused on showcasing the features of the woodcraft industry of Morocco, with collections of wood carvings, musical instruments, carpets, ceramics and weapons. The entrance fee is Dh 25.

What remained to see in Marrakech?

• Menara Gardens
• El Bahia Palace
• El Badi Palace
• Ben Youssef Madrassa
• Jardin Majorelle
• Rahba Kedima Square
• Maison Tiskiwin
• Miaara Jewish Cemetery

When to travel Marrakech?

The climate of Marrakech is classified as hot semi-arid, which keeps the city’s winter mild and damp and summer hot and dry. From March to May and from October to November is considered as the best time to travel Marrakech.

Where can stay in Marrakech?

Everything is in the list of Marrakech’s hospitality industry, from star rated hotels to budget camping and hostel options, although, getting it during peak season would be a challenging task. So book your favorite accommodation well in advance. Some world class hotels in Marrakech are listed below:

• Riad le Clos des Arts
• Riad Aguerzame
• Riad Kheirredine
• Riad Noir d’Ivoire
• Dar Ayniwen Villa Hotel
• Riad Dar Oulhoum
• Riad Kniza
• Maison MK
• La Maison Arabe
• Riad Elizabeth
• Riad Hayati
• Riad Dar One
• Riad Al Massarah
• Riad El Mansour
• Riad Dar Anika

The post Tourist Places to Visit in Marrakech (Marrakesh), Marrakesh-Tensift-El Haouz, Morocco, Africa appeared first on MustVisitPlace.com.

El Aaiun, or Laayoune, is the capital city of Western Sahara, a disputed territory of Morocco since 1976. It is also the administrative centre of the Laâyoune-Boujdour-Sakia El Hamra region, situated around 1100 km southwest of Casablanca, the largest city of Morocco. The city is detached by dry river of Saguia el Hamra, located between 27°9′13″ N latitude and 13°12′12″ W longitude. El Aaiun experiences a mild desert climate with an average temperature of 20°C per year. El Aaiun is home to the famous football club, called Jeunesse Massira, which is the part of the Moroccan premier league.

History of El Aaiun:

The Spanish colonizer Antonio de Oro was the founder of El Aaiun, founded in 1938 and promoted it as the capital of the Spanish Sahara in 1940. The name El Aaiun is the French translated form of the Arabic term ‘Layoun’, which literally means ‘the water sources’.

Getting El Aaiun:

Hassan I Airport is the airport serving El Aaiún with the scheduled flights from Las Palmas, Agadir and Casablanca, catered by Binter Canarias, CanaryFly and Royal Air Maroc.

Despite its position in Western Sahara, El Aaiun is well linked by bus to all the important southern Moroccan cities like Marrakech, Inezgane and Agadir.

The local transportation of El Aaiún is upgraded, served by public buses, costing around USD0.25 and petit taxis, which generally cost around MAD6.

Food and Shopping in El Aaiun:

The area of Sheria Mekka in El Aaiun is famous for the shopping of antique knives, jewelry, local craft and artworks.

El Aaiun is home to many pizza corners, traditional and modern restaurants. Pizzeria Samir is one of the famous options.

What to do in El Aaiun?

• Shopping
• Walking
• Visiting gardens

What to see in El Aaiun?

Stade Sheikh Mohamed Laghdaf:

The Stade Sheikh Mohamed Laghdaf is a multipurpose stadium, holding a capacity of around 30,000 spectators. It is used mainly for football matches and is the home ground of the football club, JS Massira.

Hassan I Airport:

The Hassan I Airport is situated around 2 km west of the heart of El Aaiun. It is named in the honor of Hassan I of Morocco. The airport is modern and well constructed, while its elevation measures 63 meters.

Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi:

The Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi was constructed during the Spanish colonial rule in Western Sahara. This former cathedral is known both for its construction and surrounding environment. It is currently used for administrative purposes.

Avenue Makkah al-Mukarramah:

Avenue Makkah al-Mukarramah is a well maintained and one of the important avenues of El Aaiun. The avenue features many brick colored buildings that are nice to see.

Other places of interest in and around El Aaiun include:

• Beaches in El Aaiun
• Mosque in Dakhla
• Beaches in Dakhla
• Windfish Pro-Center
• Centre Artisanal
• Laayoune Off Road
• Beaches in Agadir
• The Souss-Massa National Park
• Mosque Loubnan in Agadir
• The garden of Ibn Zaidoun
• Museum Municipal du Patrimoine Amazigh
• Mohammed V Mosque
• Musee Municipal de Agadir
• Imouzzer Ida Ou Tanane

When to visit El Aaiun?

Generally during the months between May and September is best to visit El Aaiun in Western Sahara, Morocco.

Where to stay in El Aaiun?

El Aaiun is home to around 15 standard hotels, of which many are located in downtown El Aaiun. Budget options can be found on the outskirts of the city. Advance booking is preferred by most hotels in the city. The prominent hotels in and around El Aaiun are listed below:

• Hotel Josefina
• Hotel Nagjir Ville
• Hotel Salwan
• Camping Sabor del Sahara
• Hotel Parador
• Le Camp Bedouin
• La Corniche
• Hotel de France
• Hotel Afra
• Ksar Tafnidilt

The post Best Tourist Places to Visit in El Aaiun (Laayoune), Western Sahara, Morocco, Africa appeared first on MustVisitPlace.com.

Khouribga is a city belonging to the Khouribga Province in the Chaouia-Ouardigha region of the northeastern African country, Morocco. It is geographically positioned between 32°53′00″ N latitude and 6°54′00″ W longitude, at an elevation of 786 meters, around 120 km southeast of Casablanca, the largest city of Morocco and 200 km northeast of the focal point of Morocco’s tourism, Marrakech. Khouribga is well known for its large phosphate reserve and the city is also home to many textile, food and mechanical, electronic and electrical industries. Khouribga is also noted for its health industry, home to the higher proportion of the province’s health industry.

History of Khouribga:

The real history of Khouribga begins with the discovery of phosphate in the region during the French colonial period in 1923, for which, they upgraded Khouribga as a city. Since then, Khouribga has been developing towards becoming one of the prominent cities of Morocco.

How to access Khouribga?

The Mohammed V International Airport, near Casablanca, is the most important airport of Morocco and the closest major airport to Khouribga, located around 90 km away from the centre of Khouribga. Including New York, London and Dubai, this airport covers all the important global destinations in the world.

Khouribga has good bus connectivity to all the major Moroccan cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fez and Marrakech.

Khouribga houses many travel agencies that offer car and bike for local travel on day or week basis.

Food and Shopping in Khouribga:

Khouribga is famous for handicraft shopping as the city houses nine cooperatives and a handicrafts association. The colorful handicraft products can be purchased at local market. The city also houses many standard restaurants.

What to do in Khouribga?

• Walking
• Shopping
• City tour

What to see in Khouribga?

Casablanca Cathedral:

Situated around 120 km away from Khouribga, the Casablanca Cathedral is a former cathedral and popular cultural centre in Casablanca, well known for cultural activities and Mauresque architecture.

The King Hassan II Mosque:

The King Hassan II Mosque is an iconic mosque, holding the title of the largest mosque in Morocco and the 3^rd largest in the globe. It is situated at Blvd Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah in Casablanca. Guided tour is provided at mosque from Saturday to Thursday, which costs 120 MAD per person.

Marrakesh:

Situated around 200 km from Khouribga, Marrakesh is the heart of Morocco’s tourism, holding many internationally recognized tourist attractions like Jemaa el-Fnaa, Menara gardens, Badi Palace, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs and Marrakech Museum. Worth a trip to Marrakesh.

Rabat:

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, situated around 150 km north of Khouribga. Rabat is the site of many important imposing structures of the country such as Hassan Tower, Bank Al Maghrib Museum, Royal Palace and Bank Al Maghrib Museum.

Other places of interest in Khouribga and Casablanca (around 120 km) include:

• Morocco Mall
• Stade Mohamed V
• Musee Abderrahman Slaoui
• Museum of Moroccan Judaism
• Old Medina of Casablanca
• Phare d’el Hank
• City Hall of Casablanca
• Place des Nations Unies
• Surf Globe School
• L’Eglise du Sacre-Coeur
• Notre Dame de Lourdes
• Playas Ain Diab y La Corniche

When to visit Khouribga?

Generally the months of April, May, September and October are ideal to visit Khouribga in Morocco.

Where to stay in Khouribga?

Khouribga houses limited number of modernized hotels, so it is suggested for visitors to find hotels in nearby cities like Settat, Beni Mellal and Casablanca if they couldn’t get in Khouribga. List of the reputed hotels in Khouribga and Casablanca (around 120 km) include:

• Golden Tulip Farah Khouribga
• Styles Hotel
• Residence Des Quatre Chemins
• Le Royal Mansour Meridien
• Le Trianon Luxury Hotel & Spa
• Ibis Casa Sidi Maarouf
• Jnane Sherazade
• Maamoura Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Casablanca
• Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche
• Club Val d’Anfa Hotel
• Art Palace & Spa
• Imperial Casablanca Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Husa Casablanca Plaza
• Atlas Sky Airport

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Kenitra is a Moroccan city, located in the Province of Kénitra in Gharb-Chrarda-Béni Hssen of the country. It is a port city, located on the Sebou River, between 34°15′ N latitude and 6°35′ W longitude. Kenitra is situated around 50 km northeast of Rabat, the capital of Morocco and 135 km northeast of the country’s largest city, Casablanca. Kenitra houses the university, named Université Ibn Tofail and three reputed colleges, HECI Kénitra, ENSA Kénitra and ENCG Kénitra. Being a historic city, Kenitra houses many famous historic structures, including the Masjid Palestine.

History of Kenitra:

Kenitra originated as a trading-post, constructed by the Phoenicians under name ‘Thamusida’ in the vicinity of what is today’s city, Kenitra. The real growth of Kenitra began when it came under the French protectorate in 1910s, then it was called Port Lyautey and renamed to its current after the independence of Morocco in 1956.

Connectivity to Kenitra:

Rabat-Salé Airport is the closest airport to Kenitra, situated around 40 km southwest of Kenitra city and handles flights from Madrid, Amsterdam, Tripoli, Casablanca, Beauvais, Charleroi, Girona, London and Brussels.

By train, Kenitra is connected to Rabat and Casablanca, served by shuttle train TNR.

There are also regular buses plying between Kenitra and Rabat, Casablanca and other Moroccan cities.

To move within the city, visitors can wait until the arrival of bus or better, hiring a car or bike.

Food and Shopping in Kenitra:

Kenitra is home to all sorts of modernized as well as traditional shopping options with a wide selection of products ranging from groceries to gadgets.

List of the major restaurants in Kenitra include:

• Yamal Acham 2
• Luigi Kenitra
• Restaurant Titanic
• Aux Delices

Things to do in Kenitra:

• Day tours
• Shopping
• Walking

Tourist Attractions in Kenitra:

Médina of Kenitra:

The Médina of Kenitra is the focal point of Kenitra’s tourism, home to many historical structures dating from the French colonial period. The major parts of medina are Khabazate, La Cigogne and La cite.

Masjid Palestine:

The Masjid Palestine is one of the major religious sites in Kenitra, frequented by devotees and tourists throughout the year.

Rabat:

Rabat is the capital of Morocco, situated around 50 km away from Kenitra. There are several recognized tourist attractions in Rabat such as Hassan Tower, Kasbah of the Oudaias, Mausoleum Mohammed 5, National Archaeological Museum, Bank Al Maghrib Museum and Rabat beach. Buses are frequent between Rabat and Kenitra.

Avenue Mohamed Diouri:

Avenue Mohamed Diouri of Kenitra is famous as a site of many imposing historical structures, of which many hold more than 100 year history. There are also many restaurants and cafes in Avenue Mohamed Diouri.

Université Ibn Tofail:

The Université Ibn Tofail is the prime educational centre in Kenitra, holding a large campus and garden area. It is an ideal place to know the local culture and history.

Other places of interest in Kenitra and Rabat (around 50 km) include:

• Kasbah des Oudaias
• Mausoleum of Mohammad V
• Hassan Tower
• Medina of Rabat
• Les Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel
• Zoo de Rabat
• Oudaia Museum
• Exotic Gardens of Rabat Sale
• Andalusian Gardens
• Rabat Old Town
• National Archaeology Museum
• Royal Palace of Rabat
• Cathedrale Saint-Pierre
• The Currency Museum of the Bank Al-Maghrib

Best time to visit Kenitra:

Kenitra can be visited throughout the year and the most popular time to visit Kenitra is from March to May.

Accommodation options in Kenitra:

There are hotels limited in Kenitra, so it is advised for visitors to get nearby Rabat, where many world class hotels are located with amazing facilities and services. Here are some prominent hotels in Kenitra and Rabat (around 50 km):

• Jacaranda Hotel
• Hotel Assam
• Hotel Mamora
• Mercure Rabat Sheherazade
• Farah Hotel
• Le Dawliz Hotel & Spa
• Riad Marlinea
• The Repose
• Riad Dar Soufa
• Hotel Berlin
• Dar Byeda
• Riad El Bir
• Riad Sidi Fatah
• Riad Oudaya
• Ryad Dar Karima

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