A luxury Morocco vacation serves as a wonderful complement to your safari experience or as a culturally rich journey in and of itself. Marrakech encapsulates many of the more iconic perspectives of this North African nation, but there is so much more to be explored and experienced, from coastal ports to desert oases.
Immortalised by Humphrey Bogart’s classic 1942 movie of the same name, Casablanca is a bustling ocean port and a more contemporary aspect of this wonderful country. But stepping from the thriving metropolis, the diversity of opportunities begins to dawn on visitors, the turquoise Atlantic Ocean contrasting with the ochre sands of the Sahara.
What are you searching for in your luxury Morocco vacation? Artisan culture, mouth-watering cuisine, adventure and excitement, ancient history or perhaps some decadent luxury? Morocco has it all, and significantly more, all in its own inimitable style; a rich combination of French colonial, traditional Berber, African heritage and Byzantine influence. Whether you are a family of five or a more senior traveller with a love of history, a luxury Morocco vacation has plenty to offer.
Essaouira
The establishment of the ancient fishing town of Essaouira is unknown, but it has certainly been active for several millennia, easily predating Christianity. Luring creatives from around the world, it inspires photography, poetry and creativity at every turn. It is also a Moroccan immersion of sorts, reflecting the quintessence of national crafts and cuisines, an abundance of souks and wares encapsulating many of the most iconic aspects of the nation.
The Atlas Mountains
Rising from the ochre sands of the Sahara, it surprises many to see snow atop the towering Atlas Mountains. Here you will find connection with the Berber, learning their ways, sharing in a meal and glass of mint tea, and viewing (and possibly purchasing) their exquisite handicrafts. Take a hike and find solitude amongst the foothills of the Atlas, returning to your luxurious oasis hotel for an evening of relaxation and pampering.
The Sahara Desert
Though you may only venture into the very fringes of its 3.6 million square miles on your luxury Morocco vacation, the Sahara will make no less of a lasting impression upon you. Venture the dunes on camelback or four wheels, drink in the silence and stillness and discover how mankind has grasped onto subsistence in this challenging environment for thousands of years. Nocturnal temperatures can plummet, but what you gain from these chilly nights is a canopy of stars unequalled by almost any other destination worldwide. Far from any light pollution, the dunes give you a hypnotising view of the nocturnal heavens.
Aït Benhaddou
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city has been seen by millions of people without even knowing it, having featured in numerous Hollywood movies, including blockbusters, Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia and the hugely-popular TV show, Game of Thrones. Though thought to have been predominantly established over one thousand years ago upon one of the major trans-Saharan trade routes, the current buildings of Ait Ben Haddou are considered to have been built around the 17th Century. To walk through its streets is to be transported to another place and time and it truly is unfathomable to consider this a working town and not merely the remnants of a Hollywood film set.
Chefchaouen
The Blue City of Morocco, Chefchaouen is one of the most wonderful places to discover the spices for which Moroccan dishes are so renowned, and an absolute must on a luxury Morocco vacation. Piled elegantly into conical towers, the vibrantly colourful spices fill the air with captivating aromas, while Berber women offer finely handcrafted jewellery and, of course, the hand-woven rugs so synonymous with Morocco. Surrounded by the pastel blue buildings, one feels refreshed, as if plunging into the cooling waters of the Atlantic. Two hours to the north lies Tangier, barely 20 miles across the Strait of Gibraltar and another of Morocco’s wonderfully fascinating towns.
Marrakech
Though the official capital of Morocco is Rabat, Marrakech is arguably its most renowned city. The Jemaa el-Fna marketplace is a hive of activity, the expansive square all but deserted throughout the day but coming alive as the cooler night hours fall. If you are searching for a more gustatory Morocco vacation, here is the place. Many locals shop and dine at Jema el-Fna and, if you are feeling particularly intrepid, you will experience flavours, ingredients and dishes found nowhere else in the world… for better and occasionally for worse!
Morocco exudes a sense of opulence, even in its most rural and rustic regions. Berber tents are the original glamping experience, while even humble homes often feature exquisite tiling and exotic features. Accommodations are exceptional, and no matter the size, you will feel a certain sense of glamour and elegance wherever you stay throughout your luxury Morocco vacation.
Riads – traditional homes impeccably restored and refurbished into luxurious boutique hotels – are a wonderful way to feel a certain sense of connection to your surroundings. Many feature divine internal tiled courtyards with water features, small gardens and occasionally a swimming pool. An absolute oasis, both figuratively and literally, these courtyards offer unfettered tranquility.
Few places reflect this more perfectly than L’Heure Bleue in Essaouira. Five-star luxury combines with impeccable detail in a fusion of influences from African game lodges to French châteaux, colonial chic and endemic craftsmanship. The rooftop pools, bars and restaurants present expansive panoramic views of the cities and their towering minarets, bustling souks and glorious sounds and smells.
Venturing away from the more populous regions, you will find similar elegance reflected wherever you stay during a luxury Morocco vacation. Modern venues have been architecturally designed sympathetically to their surroundings and the nation’s traditions, and are furnished accordingly. Unlike some five-star hotels around the world, no matter how luxurious your accommodations, you will still feel unfalteringly intertwined in the cultures and crafts of Morocco.
BEST TIME: Mar – Apr & Sep – Nov. Though some rainfall occurs, this avoids the coldest, wettest months and the stifling heat of high summer
CLIMATE: LOW: 60-84ºF (6-21ºC) Dec – Jan / HIGH: 64-100ºF (18-38ºC) Jun – Aug
SEASONS: DRY: May – Oct / WET: Nov – Apr
BEST FOR: A historical and cultural journey. Photographers, gastronophiles and families will love the unique diversity.
Morocco does have some nature, such as the Barbary macaques of Ifrane National Park and the desert-dwelling caracal, fennec fox and not-so-adorable slithering inhabitants, though these are rare and must be sought out. Wildlife watchers may find themselves a little disappointed by Morocco, but this is not why one should visit.
Instead, consider it a fascinatingly rich cultural luxury Morocco vacation, blending history, crafts, cuisine and architecture in spectacular fashion.
One might achieve the quintessential Moroccan experience in a long weekend, a book-end to a safari in the more traditional sense. However, this contrast can be equally as complementary as it is jarring, and the glimpse into the wealth of Morocco’s appeal may make you wish you had longer. With the primary destinations scattered throughout the country, some travel will be required to capture a true sense of Morocco, and at least 10 days is highly recommended to achieve all you might wish to see and do on a luxury Morocco vacation.
Unlike some other countries, the wet season in Morocco coincides with the colder months. Lacking monsoonal downpours, ‘wet season’ is a generous term, but nights can get very chilly, so the months of November to February, in particular, are best to avoid. On the other hand, summer months can be stifling, climbing to over 100ºF (38ºC). The border months of March and April, and September and October are the most advantageous times to visit.
In a word, excellence. Berber hospitality is ubiquitous, as is the fine attention to detail in service, facilities and architecture. While the more humble residences can be a little rustic, they still provide impeccable classical style and surroundings. Median accommodation is often well above the global average, and most venues feel like a tiny little palace all of your own. Exquisite tiling, regal archways, hand-carved doors and furniture and expertly engraved metalwork feature strongly throughout all levels of residence, forming a lasting and iconic impression.
While you don’t require a visa for Morocco, you should consult your Travel Designer for any additional paperwork or onward travel details. Some inoculations are recommended for Morocco. We suggest you contact your travel designer or a travel medicine specialist for advice.
Some East Coast US airports fly directly to Casablanca and Marrakech. For other destinations, transit through an East Coast or European airport may be required.
Internal flights are available, though road and rail travel often take less time. The rail system is of an excellent standard and a wonderful way to see the country. Air-conditioned sleeping cars are available, and food and beverages are also available, though a little limited on board. Many of our clients opt to travel in a private vehicle by road, taking in the winding hillscapes and coastlines.
Linguistically, your guide will be essential at times. English is spoken in the tourist centres and more major destinations, with French also spoken in some regions. Arabic and Berber are predominant in rural regions, so a translator will prove invaluable.
Food is simply divine. Though much will cater to a Western palate and be perfectly acceptable to even the most fickle diner, we highly recommend you to be adventurous with your menu. Taking advantage of local produce and spices, Moroccans are masters of flavour and, regardless of what you may be eating, if you can overcome your more conventional eating preferences, your taste buds will thank you endlessly.
