Traveling to Morocco is like stepping into a warm embrace. As a country home to sprawling deserts and a sandy coastline, geography is certainly a factor. The cuisine — rich tajines laden with fragrant spices served with piping hot mint tea — might also offer a clue. But above all it is the gracious hospitality of Morocco’s locals that make any traveler feel right at home. For a well-balanced vacation, pair total relaxation with the dazzling commotion of Morocco’s cities and a healthy dose of adventure. Think bustling medinas, colorful bazaars, mountain treks, hidden oases, and maybe a camel or two. They say variety is the spice of life, and boy, Moroccans sure love spice.

From Near Eastern nomads and Phoenicians to Romans and Berbers, Morocco’s long history has been shaped by numerous cultures. Evidence of all is seen today, in bloodlines, traditions, cuisine, architecture and ancient monuments. The nation’s cities also speak to this past, but to the future too, with the historic medinas of Fez, Marrakech and Essaouira contrasting with the urban glass and glitz seen in Casablanca, Tangier and Rabat. The landscapes that carpet this slice of North Africa are just as varied, much like the richly colored and patterned rugs for sale in the atmospheric souqs. There are the mountains of the High Atlas and the Rif, the dunes and oases of the Sahara, and the staggering coastlines of the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Morocco’s long history has been shaped by numerous cultures

Think bustling medinas, colorful bazaars, mountain treks, hidden oases, and maybe a camel or two. They say variety is the spice of life, and boy, Moroccans sure love spice.

Customized travel to Morocco. Tour the Sahara Desert by camel, view leatherwork in Fes, or explore Marrakesh's vibrant main square. Local travel. Responsible travel.