Why go to Morocco? The 20 good reasons to go Morocco

Museums are generally open from 9am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 7pm. However, these times vary from one place to another, and it is best to enquire beforehand. Some close on Sunday or Monday, while others remain open every day, except on religious holidays.

Museums generally open from 9am to 12:30pm and from 2pm to 7pm. But these hours vary from one place to another, and it is better to inquire beforehand. Some close on Sundays or Mondays, while others remain open every day, except for religious holidays. It is important to pay attention to the prayer rites and not to be surprised to find the entire administration on break for long periods of time.

In the deep south of Morocco, there are very few places that are so popular with tourists that they create endless lines. Only the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech is such a place, for which a minimum of organization is required.

Large cabs are a convenient and inexpensive way to travel. Thanks to its numerous trips throughout the country, even over long distances, you can easily discover the riches of the country.

Moussems, festivals and other events mark a busy calendar in Morocco throughout the year. Jazz lovers will not want to miss the Jazzablanca festival in April, which rocks Casablanca for nine days, or Tanjazz in September in Tangier, which unveils a quality program every year. In June, the laughter festival in Marrakech is a good time, with sketches to be folded in two. Lovers of the 7th art will go to Marrakech in December for the international film festival where the great names of cinema meet on the red carpet. For a total immersion in Moroccan culture, don't miss the moussems and festivals dedicated to the region's products. The atmosphere is in full swing and it is an opportunity to discover the local traditions and gastronomy.

The period of religious holidays, especially Ramadan and Eid-El-Kebir are to be anticipated for your trip. Indeed, during these very important times for families, the country turns differently, with many changes from the ordinary.

There are many local guides in Morocco. Some claim to be guides, but they are in fact locals who know the area well. They can however accompany you to places of interest, but their knowledge remains limited.

You will often find Moroccans approaching you near places frequented by tourists to give you a guided tour. Don't hesitate to refuse if you don't have a "feeling" or to set a price in advance. Most of them are friendly and well-trained, but a few people can ruin a day!

Although prohibited by Islam, Moroccans are not totally anti-smoking. In fact, many cafes and restaurants still allow smoking inside!

In Fez, Marrakech or Ouarzazate, it's best to make sure your guide has the official license, if you don't want to become the goose that lays the golden eggs for his merchant friends. However, as everywhere, there are good and bad guides, even with the title in your pocket. We show you trusted guides through our pages.

One must be particularly careful in the region of Taroudant and especially in the typical village of Aït Ben Haddou. Several tourist scams have been reported, especially to visit the fortress, which is normally free of charge, but to which access is punctuated by several illegal toll booths!

Food remains one of the main assets of this beautiful Moroccan culture. Don't hesitate to be invited to the back of a store to have a tea, or to taste the many dishes of the Mediterranean gastronomy.