Morocco

There is an abundance of tour companies who can take you on sunrise, sunset or overnight tours of the Sahara Desert and dunes of Morocco, starting at places like Marrakech and Agadir. Travelling by a combination of camel and 4x4 vehicle you'll take in gorges and valleys and pass through palm oases before you reach the immense sand dunes of places like Erg Chebbi and then the Sahara Desert itself.

Holidays in Morocco have so much to offer, from walking around busy markets to camel-riding in the Sahara and even skiing in the mountains. But after all that action you might need some relaxation and pampering in one of the many spas and Hammams.

Whether you're planning to visit Morocco for a romantic getaway, on your honeymoon or as a relaxing break with your loved one, there are couples' activities galore in this Arabian country.

Morocco is a country full of character and charm, from the excitement of the souks in Marrakech to the quaint tea shops adorning the colourful streets. But on top of this, you'll find a multitude of thrilling and active pastimes across the country, taking in the intriguing desert, towering mountains and rugged coastline. Take a look at some of our favourites to get your started.

Stretching for around 2500 kilometres across Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, the Atlas Mountain range separates the Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines from the Sahara Desert and offers sweeping views of its verdant valleys and traditional mud-built Berber villages.

Many people are surprised to hear that flights from the UK to Morocco are just over three and a half hours. Morocco is a place that comes alive with busy markets, stunning coastlines and dramatic mountain ranges, hiding people and villages that have been thriving in this balmy climate for centuries. Short flight times mean that leaving for a quick stint in Morocco is easier than ever. If your Moroccan holiday is short on time, here's the best way to spend your days and still get the full picture.

Moroccan food is already pretty popular in the UK, as any fan of a good tagine and cous cous will tell you. The mix of strong flavours and healthy ingredients has created a balance of taste and nutrition that we adore. Of course, your trip to Morocco will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the cuisine, so it's a good idea to brush up on your knowledge before you fly off for your break.

When you imagine your upcoming journey to Morocco, one vision you're almost certain to conjure is the bustling activity of a traditional market. Colours and sounds fill the air as vendors ply their wares and savvy shoppers haggle for the best prices. All the while people stroll to and fro, and wandering salesmen offer their snacks and souvenirs to all and sundry.

Morocco's unique architectural style has been formed over the centuries by the African tribes who've inhabited the country, as well as Arab neighbours and European colonisers. The two strongest influences have been Islamic and Hispano-Moorish – the latter of which has a lot in common with Spanish and Portuguese styles. Often blending seamlessly, the two styles form the architecture of highly detailed mosques and madrasas, which are Quranic schools also known as madrasas.

Although both are major cities in Morocco, not too far from one another, Marrakech and Agadir are about as similar as day and night. Here, we put the two cities side by side so you can see which one is right for you.