MOROCCO - SABBATICALS & EXPERIENTIAL HOLIDAYS === DESTINATION OVERVIEW === Embark on a journey through Morocco, where the echoes of mighty dynasties resonate in the very fabric of its existence. Immerse yourself in the story woven by fortified walls, labyrinthine medinas, majestic minarets, and secluded mountain kasbahs. History intertwines seamlessly with modern life in Morocco's bustling souks, enchanting riads, mouthwatering gastronomy, and indulgent hammams. Morocco doesn't just offer culture; its deserts hold the promise of adventure and its mountains the freshness of forests and snow. Whether you crave history, nature, art, or all of the above, the ornate richness of Morocco beckons. === MOROCCO UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 2023 EARTHQUAKE === Marrakech was back on its feet and bustling within hours of the September 2023 earthquake and was much less affected than media images portrayed. Good efforts have been made since to reconstruct the buildings that collapsed in the Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains, the area which was most affected. Charities such as Education for All, which LiNGER supports, have been a driving force in this recovery. Most mountain kasbahs are welcoming guests again and have reconstructed affected parts. Most cities in Morocco were entirely unaffected. === BEST OFF THE BEATEN PATH EXPERIENCES === SAHARA BALLOON RIDE Take a balloon ride over the sweeping Sahara in the early morning for an unforgettable perspective of the endless dunes. MERZOUGA DESERT EXPERIENCE Stargaze, search for fossils, camel ride and dune surf around Merzouga in the desert, at the looming Erg Chebi dune. Stay in a luxurious Berber tented camp beneath star-filled skies. CASABLANCA MOTORBIKE TOUR Visit the iconic and modern Casablanca in the sidecar of a motorbike for a unique urban adventure. EL JADIDA FISHING VILLAGE Take a day excursion to El Jadida from Casablanca to see the old medina of this quaint fishing village. ESSAOUIRA SURFING Catch some waves at Essaouira, where there is good surfing for beginners and the experienced alike on the Atlantic coast. IFRANE - THE SWITZERLAND OF MOROCCO Discover the Switzerland of Morocco: Ifrane. Enjoy beautiful mountain views, forest hikes and even skiing in December to January! === MOST POPULAR EXPERIENCES === • Diving into Marrakech's souk: a vibrant labyrinth of treasures. Uncover colourful ceramics, shimmering lanterns, and skilfully engraved metalware... and embrace the art of haggling! • Mingling with locals enjoying merguez sausage and flat bread at a communal table in the atmospheric twilight of Jemaa el Fna square, the hub of Marrakech • Staying in the ornate cosiness of a riyad nestled in the medina, with each room uniquely and lavishly decorated • Hiking around the impressive Ouzoud waterfalls outside Marrakech • Meandering through the streets and alleyways of charming, coastal Essaouira, known for its Argan oil. Perch on the city walls to watch the bustle of the harbour • Passing through the city gates and entering the time of the Sultans as you wind through the ancient Imperial cities of Fez, Rabat, Meknes and Marrakech. Soak up the exquisite architecture, explore where alleyways lead and discover hidden gardens • Wandering through the evocative blue hues of the alleyways of Chefchaouen. Around every corner awaits a picture-perfect scene of smooth blue walls and steps dotted with colourful flowers • Visiting the film sets of several Hollywood blockbusters at Ait Ben Haddou. Aside from this more touristy activity, the 17th century clay brick architecture, blending the wood-and-earth town into its surroundings, makes this worth a visit • Trekking the Atlas mountains through century-old Berber villages, camouflaged in the rusty red of the soil. Support the reconstruction efforts by your presence, following the September 2023 earthquake • Staying in the palatial surrounds of an earthen kasbah in the mountains. The kasbahs that were affected by the earthquake are reconstructing and welcoming guests === WILDLIFE IN MOROCCO === Morocco possesses a diverse land wildlife and marine life, from mountain-dwelling primates to coastal cetaceans. ATLAS MOUNTAINS The Atlas Mountains are home to the endangered Barbary Macaque and a variety of reptiles and snakes adapted to the mountain environment. COASTAL MARINE LIFE The coast is home to a variety of dolphins and whales, with opportunities for marine wildlife watching along the Atlantic coastline. DESERT WILDLIFE The Sahara Desert regions support adapted species including desert foxes, reptiles, and a variety of bird species. === WHEN TO GO TO MOROCCO === Morocco's cities make a great break when it's colder in the Northern Hemisphere, with temperatures dropping only to 24 degrees in Winter (December to January). SUMMER SEASON The height of summer can be stifling, with temperatures over 30 degrees July to August. Coastal areas offer relief from the inland heat. WINTER SEASON Winter temperatures are mild in cities and coastal areas, whilst mountain regions offer cooler climates and even skiing opportunities in Ifrane during December to January. TEMPERATURE RANGE Temperature range: from 24°C (75°F) in winter to over 30°C (86°F) in summer, varying significantly by region. === HOW TO GET TO MOROCCO === BY AIR FROM UK Flights are direct from the UK to Morocco, taking about 3.5 hours from London to major cities including Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fez. BY AIR FROM USA From New York, direct flights to Morocco are 7 hours, landing in Casablanca or other major cities. TRAVELLING WITHIN MOROCCO Domestic flights connect major cities. Morocco's excellent road network allows for scenic drives through mountains and deserts. Train services connect major cities along the coast and inland. Private transfers and guided tours provide comfortable access to remote kasbahs and desert camps. === WHO WILL LOVE MOROCCO === Morocco appeals to a wide range of travellers seeking cultural immersion, adventure, and historical exploration. In particular, it's suited to: • Culture lovers fascinated by Islamic architecture and traditions • Adventure seekers ready for desert expeditions and mountain treks • Hikers exploring Atlas Mountain trails and Berber villages • Families seeking diverse experiences from beaches to souks • Couples enjoying romantic riad stays and sunset desert camps • Solo travellers navigating vibrant medinas and making connections === MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN MOROCCO === Morocco offers opportunities to support local communities and conservation efforts through responsible tourism. EDUCATION FOR ALL Charities such as Education for All, which LiNGER supports, have been a driving force in supporting girls' education and earthquake recovery efforts in rural Berber communities. BERBER VILLAGE RECONSTRUCTION Support the reconstruction efforts by your presence in the Atlas Mountains, following the September 2023 earthquake. Many kasbahs and guesthouses employ local craftspeople and source materials locally. TRADITIONAL CRAFTS SUPPORT Purchasing authentic handcrafted goods directly from artisans in the souks supports traditional craftsmanship and local families. === WHERE TO STAY IN MOROCCO === Morocco is home to a great many types of authentic yet luxurious accommodation, all elaborately furnished and finished. Mix up Bedouin desert camps; unique riyads hidden in the town medinas; and secluded, tranquil mountain kasbahs. Luxury international hotels are also plentiful in major cities. Accommodation types: • Bedouin desert camps in the Sahara • Traditional riyads in town medinas • Mountain kasbahs in the Atlas Mountains • Luxury international hotels in major cities • Coastal resorts in Essaouira • Boutique accommodations throughout === HOW TO PLAN A TRIP TO MOROCCO === Our experienced team will guide you through a number of ideas based on how you would like to experience Morocco. BESPOKE PLANNING No matter how long you have to travel, we will ensure your trip is carefully pieced together to suit your interests, pace of travel and budget. MULTI-COUNTRY OPTIONS Morocco combines beautifully with Spain for a cross-cultural Mediterranean experience, or with Portugal for extended Atlantic coastal exploration. Consider adding time in the Canary Islands or Madeira. SAMPLE ITINERARY Explore our sample Morocco itineraries for inspiration on how to experience the Imperial cities, Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains, and coastal charms. Contact us to start planning a holiday or sabbatical to Morocco. === ABOUT LINGER === Linger specialises in Sabbaticals & Experiential Holidays. We focus on authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that allow travellers to deeply engage with destinations. Our Morocco offerings emphasise this journey where the echoes of mighty dynasties resonate in the very fabric of its existence with fortified walls, labyrinthine medinas, majestic minarets, and secluded mountain kasbahs, where history intertwines seamlessly with modern life in Morocco's bustling souks, enchanting riads, mouthwatering gastronomy, and indulgent hammams, and Morocco doesn't just offer culture with its deserts holding the promise of adventure and its mountains the freshness of forests and snow. --- Contact: www.linger.co.uk Last Updated: December 2025