Travel warning:
Following the series of terrorist attacks that took place in Casablanca on 16 May 2003, all travellers are advised to be vigilant and to avoid crowds and public places crowded with other foreigners. Most visits to Morocco are trouble-free, but violent crime - though not a major problem in Morocco - is on the increase. Visitors to the Western Sahara region should contact their relevant travel advice department for advice prior to arrival.

‘Mysterious charm on Europe’s doorstep’

Morocco is an initiation into the exotic magic of the Islamic, Arabic, African world - the world of medinas and minarets, desert and mountain; yet it almost touches western Europe and, for all the differences, retains a European patina, the legacy of the French Protectorate.

To imbibe the spirit of Morocco, wander the streets of the great cities. Fès – the ancient capital – has a stunning array of medieval buildings, while Marrakech compels attention, its world-famous souk selling a bewildering array of goods; both hark back to the Arab dynasties that ruled the country from the Muslim conquest. Casablanca, a thriving commercial centre, and Rabat, the capital, reflect their modern French origins; Tangier is mildly seedy, slightly melancholy. All Moroccan cities are crowded, the hustlers a fact of life; for a change of pace, visit Essaouira, a laid-back seaside town.

Morocco’s charm lies in its diversity. For sun-worshippers, there are miles of beaches, while inland lies Berber country where, among the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, the energetic can walk or trek. Beyond the Atlas are the fringes of the Sahara, where the caravans once stopped on their way south to trade in spice and ivory. Whether scaling distant ridges, idling by the sea, haggling for exotic artefacts, gazing at ancient wonders or marvelling at the pink and indigo of a desert dawn, you’ll be mesmerised.

Richard Hopton

North Africa.

GMT.

710,850 sq km (274,461 sq miles).

31.6 million (UN, 2005).

44.4 per sq km.

Rabat. Population: 1.3 million (1994).

Morocco is located on the westernmost tip of north Africa, bordering Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the south and southeast, the Atlantic ocean to the west and the Mediterranean to the north. Running through the middle of the country is the Atlas mountain range, which leads to the fertile plains and sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast. The Middle Atlas range sweeps up from the south, rising to over 3000m (9850ft), covered with woodlands of pine, oak and cedar, open pastureland and small lakes. The Rif Mountains run along the north coast. The ports of Ceuta (Sebta) and Melilla on the north coast are administered by Spain.

Constitutional monarchy since 1956. Gained independence from France in 1956. Head of State: King Mohammed VI since 1999. Head of Government: Prime Minister Driss Jettou since October 2002. Recent history: King Mohammed VI was enthroned in July 1999. He soon embarked on a series of political and economic changes and pursued a modernising course. Although poverty is still widespread and unemployment remains high, one of the King’s priorities was to fight poverty. He set up a programme of economic liberalisation to attract foreign investment, eased restrictions on the press and granted more rights to women.

The official language is Arabic, but Berber is spoken by a large minority. French is widely spoken throughout the country, except in the northern regions where Spanish is more predominant. English is also understood, particularly in the north and the main tourist areas.

Predominantly Muslim with Jewish and Christian minorities. Morocco’s population and culture stems from a cross-section of origins including Berbers, Arabs, Moors and Jews.

127/220 volts AC, 50Hz, depending on age and location of building.

Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Many of the manners and social customs emulate French manners, particularly amongst the middle class. The visitor may find, in some social situations, that patience and firmness will pay dividends. Often visitors may find themselves the centre of unsolicited attention. In towns, young boys after money will be eager to point out the way, sell goods or simply charge for a photograph, while unofficial guides will always be offering advice or services. The visitor should be courteous but wary of the latter. Normal social courtesies should be observed in someone’s home. Casual wear is widely acceptable, although swimsuits and shorts should be confined to the beach or poolside. Women travelling alone, and/or wearing clothes regarded as provocative (eg strappy tops, short skirts, etc) may attract unwanted attention. Sexual relations outside marriage, and homosexual conduct, are punishable by law. Smoking is widespread and it is customary to offer cigarettes.