Accommodation
First class accommodation is in plentiful supply through the country ranging from large business class chains to privately owned boutique hotels. Riads are quite unique to Morocco and are normally found with in the ancient walls of a medina such as Marrakech or Fez.
Because of the large number of hotels standard can vary that is why we have selected a range of hotels that we think will satisfy our clients needs. These properties are visited on a regular basis to ensure that the standards are what we would expect.
In the desert
There are many camps in various beautiful locations where you can explore the wanders of the desert landscape. Some are not as good as others; some cater for large groups. We work with selected desert camps with local and passionate staff that provide a unique experience for our clients.
In the mountains
Trekking and walking in the mountains of the Atlas and The Rif are a popular pastime in Morocco. The going can be tough but the scenery spectacular. For those wanting to explore the mountains and there culture there are some wonderful Gites. These are traditional resting-places and although basis they are clean and owned by the most hospitable people. We can arrange drivers and guides privately so if you have any ideas for an adventure in the mountains please do let us know.
On the ground
When you have made your booking and all the details have been confirmed sit back and relax and wait for the day to arrive. When it does we will be there to assist you. Should you require we would have a driver and a representative waiting for you when your flight arrives. They will make sure that all is well before taking you by air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel. All the arrangements we make work this way. Drivers and Vehicles are on a private basis, if you require English speaking guides then they will be provided on a private basis.
Culture
Morocco today is a Muslim state with a Constitutional Monarchy giving it a very rich ethnic mix provided by its multi-layered history. From the Berbers through to the Arabs and the Colonial Europeans there are many cultural influences and it is something that the present generation is very keen to uphold.
Hospitality is a key ingredient of Islamic society and in particular in Morocco. Banter is loud, mealtimes are epic and the reception can be overwhelming. Family and friends are very important, as is religion. Islam is the main religion in the country and many communities, especially in the rural areas, revolve around the Mosque where many affairs of the day at sorted out as well as fulfilling their commitments.
Traditional dress and handicrafts are still produced throughout the country and make up a large part of their income. These handicrafts are sold in the bazaars and market places. The bazaars are a must see, particularly in Marrakech and Fez. Haggling with the stool owners is also a traditional and a great way to interact, one note of caution though, be sure that you intend to buy something before entering into a deal. Stallholders are there to earn a living.
Money
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirhams. It is always advisable to have cash with you, as access to the Cashpoints may be limited in rural areas, this is not such a problem in urban areas as they are plentiful. Money can also be exchange at most large hotel and in most banks. Credit cards are widely excepted in most hotels and restaurants, smaller transactions should be paid for in cash. Currency can not be taken out of the country and must be exchanged before departure. Do this before you pass through the departure gates at the airport.
Transport
We can provide for you experienced drivers and very good vehicles. The road system in the country is generally very good but in the mountains and more remote areas the conditions can be difficult so there is always an advantage to having an experienced driver with you. We can also arrange car hire for you should you require it.
There is also a very good train network that operates mainly in the north. You can get between Marrakech and Fez in only 3 hours. There are also a number of ferry companies operating services to the northern coast from a variety of destinations in Europe.
Airlines
Royal Air Maroc is the state airline and the most frequent operator. The operate services between London Heathrow, Marrakech and Casablanca and between London Gatwick Marrakech and Fez. Airarabia are a new airline and operate services between London Stansted, Tangiers and Casablanca. There are also other options available through budget airlines.
Electricity
Electricity in all destinations is 220/240V as in UK, but an adapter plug is necessary.
Health
Morocco has some of the best standards of Healthcare in Africa and inoculations against the likes of Malaria are not necessary. This said the standard is still not close to those of Western Europe. Try to wash you hands after handling money, especially notes, as these are the main source of any likely infection. Drink only bottled water and do not have ice in any cold drinks. Water in the major towns is ok for cleaning your teeth but check with the hotel in more rural areas.
History
The Berber had already been resident in the area known as Morocco as early as the 12th century BC when the Phoenicians arrived. Their presence was little felt though as they were a sea faring race and had little interest with the interior of the country.
The area was slowly taken over by the Carthaginians from Tunisia who started to exhort greater influence over the native Berber population. This was even greater after the sack of Carthage by the Romans and the exodus of people west into the enclaves of Northern Morocco. Rome’s influence soon started to spread west and eventually encompassed the Berber kingdoms of Mauretania and Numidia.
After the decline of the Roman Empire in the 3rd century the country entered a Dark Age. Lawlessness and poverty ensued and the country became ripe for invasion and it came from the East in the form of Islam.
Led by Oqba Ben Nafi the invasion swept through the country in 683 from its base in Kairwan in present day Tunisia. The conquest remained sporadic until the arrival of Idriss Ben Abdullah in 788 when he successfully united the tribal areas of the country. After his death his son Idriss II took the throne at the age of 12 and was credited with the founding of Fez and a period of stability and prosperity.
A succession of dynasties came and went through the ages including The Almohades, hailing from the High Atlas, The Merinides with their origins in Algeria and The Saadians, natives of Arabiain but rising from the Draa Valley.
The Alawite Dynasty first came to prominence in the 1640’s with its origins in the south of the country and its succession has ruled the country ever since.
In 1912 the French invaded Casablanca and the rest of the country fell. Morocco was put under a mixed French, Spanish and international protectorate. Resistance to this was tame initially but gained momentum during World War II and led by the king himself; led to the exile of his family to Madagascar in 1953. An increase in violence led to his return and the subsequent signing of an agreement for full independence in 1956.
The current king, Mohamed VI ascended the throne in 1999 and has overseen many changes to the country, particularly its industrial sector.
Etiquette and society
The Kingdom of Morocco has a very tolerant society, One that is well used to visitors. Morocco is an Islamic country and apart from a smattering of Christians and Jews the population is mainly Muslim. There are particular social rules that should be followed. You will find that these will enhance the experience of your stay.
When visiting sites of a religious nature or in any public place then ensure that you are sufficiently covered up. This would ideally mean clothes to the wrists and ankles and a dress length below the knees. If you are entering a Mosque then all shoes should also be removed, women should also cover their heads with a scarf.
In the coastal areas beachwear is acceptable, don’t though use the beach to change, there are plenty of facilities provided.
Moroccans by their nature are very hospitable and if you are lucky enough to be invited to somebody’s home then there are some simple guidelines to follow. Take a small gift, pasties, nut or something similar. When greeting people shake hands with all those in the room, Only shaking the women’s hands if you are offered. Food is very often served in the middle of the table for everybody to eat from, used only your right hand for this.
Arabic is the main language. French is the language of Business and English the international language. Berber is being encouraged in the south and is increasing quickly. Just a few words in Berber or Arabic will win over many people.
Passports and visa information
You will need a passport valid for at least 6 months after the return date in order to enter Morocco. Visas are free and issued on arrival.
Travel Insurance
It is essential that you are fully insured when you travel. You will be asked for the details of your insurance at the time of booking. If you do not have insurance then we may be able to provide you with cover. Please call us for more details.
Terms and Conditions
All bookings are subject to the terms and conditions of Indus tours and Travel. For full details of the terms and conditions please visit the quote request page or contact us directly.
Tipping
Tipping is generally expected in most parts of the world. However, Tipping is purely discretionary and should be based on the level of service that you receive. |
