Do you know what's a great place for a winter holiday?
Morocco! When your hometown gets covered in snow and the temperate gets too low for comfort, escape to this fabulous North African country for an exotic experience. Here, you can ride camels in the Sahara Desert, enjoying as much sun and sand as you can to forget the winter cold. You can also shop in the country's many souks; who knows what sorts of treasures you'll find there? And since it's winter, why not go skiing too? Yes, you can ski in Michlifen, a famous ski resort town in Morocco.
Camp in The Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert is probably the most famous desert on the planet, even compared to the
Dubai Desert. It's the largest of its kind, measuring up to 3,000 miles (4,800 km) from east to west and spanning ten different countries in Africa. And though Morocco is not included in those ten countries, there's still part of it found in the Sahara Desert. You can easily escape to the desert when coming from the famous Moroccan cities of Marrakech, Casablanca, and more. And when you get there, you can go camping, go sand surfing, ride a camel, spot exotic wildlife, and more. It's gonna be a memorable winter holiday for sure!
Have Fun at Rabat
As the country's capital, Rabat is one of the most exciting cities in Morocco. It's a healthy mix of preserved Arabian culture and history with a contemporary urban vibe. During the day, you can visit the city's 17th-century Royal Palace and bask in its stunning architecture. After dark, you can party the night away in any of the beachside clubs that line Rabat's beautiful coast. A winter holiday in Morocco is all about absorbing the country's heritage while enjoying its modern-day attractions, which means Rabat is the perfect place to start.
Check Out Casablanca
If you've watched the classic 1942 Academy Award-winning film of the same name, you'll know that Casablanca is a romantic place. Of course, that was then, so does it still ring true now? You bet it does! From the souks in the Medina to the nightclubs after dark, this city is the perfect Moroccan escape for a romantic getaway. Don't miss out on the oceanfront Hasan II Mosque, one of the most stunning places of worship in all of Morocco and North Africa. Check out Arab League Park and get lost in all its botanical bliss. And for a cinematic treat, visit Rick's Café on Place du Jardin Public. It's styled almost exactly like the one in the movie!
See The Coast in Tangier
Although Morocco has its fair share of coastal cities, none are arguably as enchanting as Tangier. Located along the Strait of Gibraltar, it has long served as a pathway between Europe and Africa. In fact, its whitewashed towns are very reminiscent of the
Greek Islands. They share the same warmth and tropical appeal too. With glimmering turquoise waters to look forward to, you couldn't have found a better place for your Moroccan winter holiday than Tangier. You can have as much sun, sand, and sea here, all paired with the country's fascinating culture.
Indulge in Seafood in Essaouira
Do you know what's also a notable coastal destination in Morocco? Essaouira! This port city located off the country's Atlantic coast also has strong Mediterranean vibes, as if you could reach Southern Europe by just swimming across the sea. With the
Skala de la Kasbah (city walls) protecting the town and a 16th-century fortress as its centerpiece, it's no surprise that UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site. But those aren't why you need to go here on your winter holiday in Morocco. They're great and all, but in truth, Essaouira's seafood is what you really ought to check out. You'll find delicacies here that you won't see anywhere else!
Shop at The Souks in Marrakech
You already know that
Marrakech is a definite must-see when you visit Morocco. Full of style and glamour, it's a vibrantly bustling metropolis that has long welcomed the rich and famous. And since it's a fashionable city, what is there to do but shop? No, not at high-class department stores that carry big-named brands and luxury goods. You'll want to shop at the souks in Marrakech instead! Check out Souk Smata to find the perfect pair of babouches (traditional Arab slippers) for you! Or explore Souk Zabri and discover its rich textiles in the most brilliant hues.
Learn History in Fes
Apart from the relatively warm weather even in winter, Morocco is known for having preserved most of its fascinating history and heritage. This rings true in the city of Fes, the country's old imperial city. Commonly referred to as the “cultural capital” of Morocco, this lively metropolis in the northeast has retained its Medieval structure and ancient appeal. It's as if every corner is at least a century old with a hidden story or mystery just waiting to be uncovered. And as far as historical landmarks go, Al Attarine Madrasa is an architectural marvel you shouldn't miss.
Ski in Michlifen
Yes, you read that right! You can actually ski during your winter holiday in Morocco! Michlifen is a
ski resort town located on the snow-capped slopes of the same name. The area is part of Morocco's Atlas Mountains, the coldest part of the country. Since Morocco (and the rest of North Africa, for that matter), is widely known and beloved for its sun-kissed heat, many people forget that such a place exists. Those who do know of it, however, refer to Michlifen as “Morocco's Aspen” and that's all you really need to know that it's worth your while!
Spend the most exciting winter holiday in Morocco! The country's cities have a lot to offer, from Marrakech's souks and Casablanca's romance to Rabat's bustling energy and Michlifen's snow-covered slopes.
