DK Travel - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Morocco

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t Night market, Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakech

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t The busy square at Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakech.

Bustling souks full of glittering goods, heady with the smell of spices. Shady palm oases and rolling seas of scorching sand dunes. Snow-capped mountain passes, ancient walled cities and an endless supply of syrupy-sweet mint tea; Morocco is a veritable feast for the senses just waiting to be explored.

Rooted in tradition yet strongly drawn to the modern world, Morocco is a country of stark contradiction and dazzling diversity. Over the centuries, its African, European and Middle Eastern roots have become deeply intertwined, resulting in a unique cultural richness particular to this vibrant corner of the world.

The most breathtaking natural scenery, including the rugged landscapes of the High Atlas and Middle Atlas mountain ranges, the enclosed green valleys of the Rif, and the palm groves and Kasbah-guarded gorges of the southern oases, is concentrated in the upper half of the country. With a car, or by making use of the countrys bus and rail network, it is possible to see the very best of Morocco in a couple of adventure-packed weeks.

The north, too, is where you will find Moroccos most fabulous cities, including the imperial quartet of Fes, Marrakech, Mekns and Rabat. All four have historic walled medinas and magnificent mosques and palaces. Equally atmospheric are Moroccos coastal cities, including the bohemian crossroads of Tangier, laidback Essaouira and art deco Casablanca.

This guide breaks Morocco down into easily navigable chapters, with detailed itineraries, expert local knowledge and comprehensive maps to help you plan your perfect trip. Whether you are here for a relaxing weekend getaway or an ambitious country-wide tour, this Eyewitness guide will ensure that you see the very best the country has to offer. Enjoy the book, and welcome to Morocco.

The magnificent red mud-brick ksar of At Benhaddou, a striking example of southern Moroccan architecture.

Dried roses from the Dads Valley, sold throughout Morocco.

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Winding streets in ancient cities, colourful souks, precipitous mountain peaks and vast desert dunescapes. There are so many reasons to visit this vibrant and intoxicating country. Here are some of our favourites.

t A medina is an historic old city, of which Morocco has many. Laced with twisting alleys and full of hidden treasures, they are fabulous places to explore and lose yourself in time.

Discover Reasons to Love Morocco

t This small blue-and-white city on the Atlantic coast has long been associated with music and the arts, and is famed for its laidback, sea-salted, .

Discover Reasons to Love Morocco

Moroccan Cuisine

t From slowcooked meat tagines to freshly picked figs with homemade yogurt, Moroccan food is often simple but packed with flavour from local herbs, spices and regional ingredients.

Discover Reasons to Love Morocco

Moroccan Chic

t Fashion designers the world over have found inspiration in the vibrant colours and sumptuous textures of Morocco, from Yves Saint Laurent to Tom Ford.

Discover Reasons to Love Morocco

The Magic of Jemaa El-Fna

t Every night storytellers entrance audiences, charmers cast spells and Gnaoua musicians play on Marrakechs main square. It is the .

Discover Reasons to Love Morocco

Hiking in the High Atlas

t The mountains offer numerous trails suitable for both beginners and experts, taking in isolated mountain villages and spectacular scenery.