Imperial Morocco

Morocco is situated on the northwestern tip of Africa and is separated from the remaining continent by the Atlas Mountains and by the Sahara. A diverse landscape of snow-capped mountains, Mediterranean shoreline and vast silent deserts make Morocco is an ideal all-year destination. The heart of Morocco is in its Atlantic port towns, sophisticated Imperial Arab cities, rocky Atlas mountain villages, and isolated Saharan desert oases. Morocco comprises of an amazing variety of surroundings, from fantastic red-rock canyons and the Atlas Mountains to the vast sand dunes in the Sahara Desert.

Fès, Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat are referred to as the Imperial Cities, each having been Morocco's capital some time during its history. Fès, the ancient capital is home to a spectacular array of medieval structures, whereas Marrakech's world-famous bazaar sells a bewildering collection of goods that reflect the country's past. Meknes, one of Morocco's most beautiful historical cities, is the smallest among the four. Considering that Meknes was a major city for Moroccan sultans in the seventeenth century, it was complete with fine architecture, grand monuments and spectacular landscaping. Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, has an important architectural heritage and has several monuments such as the doors of the Kasbah of Oudaïa, the minaret of the Mosque of Hassan (12th century), which rises to 55 m, and the necropolis of Chellah.

Morocco is a nature lover's delight with an assortment of unusual plants and birds flourishing in its exceptional climate. You can explore museums and medinas (old cities) that showcase the country's architectural wealth. Multi-course feasts, musical performances, and festivals are commonplace all over the country. Hiking through the mountains is enhanced by an opportunity to visit a wide range of Berber villages, with every region weaving rugs based on patterns exclusive to their people.

Morocco is a mystical Muslim land, and offers some of the most magnificent scenery in North Africa. You will come across a colorful blend of African, Islamic, Arab, Berber and European cultures and this makes the country an extremely unique and captivating destination.

A Moroccan shopping experience closely resembles a visit to the flea market. Morocco has built up an elaborate mix of artistic traditions. Open-air markets all over Morocco are stacked up with beautiful rugs, woodwork, jewelry and impressive leatherware.

An assortment of shopping opportunities, a history more colorful than most other nations, and an astonishing variety of sceneries make Morocco a true paradise amidst the desert.