Morocco in March 2007 for 1-2 weeks

Hi

I'm going to Morocco in March and I have heard some amazing things about this part of Africa. I want to explore Marakech as well as surrounding areas, and the sahara, and fez and anywhere else anyone can recommend. No trekking in the mountains unfortunately though as I'm not keen to freeze in the snow!
How long do I need to get a good feel for Morocco - and what are the key places to see, and absolute MUST DO activities???
I have got 2 weeks maximum time to spend there.
Any ideas warmly welcomed!!
Amy

I spent 10 days in Morocco, flew in to Marrakesh for a few days then caught the train to Casa and on to Rabat. The plan was to continue to Fez but my friend got sick and we return to Marrakesh early. Two weeks is enough to do the trip we did (or planned). If I did it again I wouldn't spend much time in Casablanca. If you can get there, Rabat is certainly worth a visit. If you are into wind surfing, the coastal towns are the place to go. The sea breeze off the Atlantic means you will get some great rides but I preferred being inland such as the Marrakesh area, and I have heard Fez is as good.

Things not to miss out:
Tanneries in Fez
Ait Benhaddou
Chilling out in Essaouira
Ride through the high atlas mtns.
Dades Valley
Perhaps the Todra gorge but I think Dades valley is more spectacular
Ouazazate

Please feel free to ask me any questions!

im going to morocco for xmas, but were flying into casa as were using airmiles and marrakech is unavailable

whats there to do in casa? i havent heard that many good things about it really...

whats the transport between towns like, and how much is it?? im thinking were gonna have to go somewhere else as well, but we only have6 or 7 days!

I wasn't that impressed with Casa but it is worth a day or two just to have a look. Trains to Fez, Rabat and Marrakesh are reasonably priced and reliable. Take a bag of nuts and dates to share around with the locals and even if you don't speak the language, the train trip can be great fun.

marrakesh is a nice place, must see sahat elfanaa , elqotobiya,palemera , and a very nice cltural show caled chez ali or ali belfalah , the transportation is very easy , and to rent a car is very usefull for you, night life in marrakesh mainly in gelez street and in al basha club

hello
i m also thinkin of goin to morocco coupled with other areas in the summers probably am fascinated by morocco , tunisia and other north african /european countries on the meditteranean which is why learnin a bit of arabic. which countries could one go to if one wants to stay in this region for a month or so

Agreed, Casablanca is not that interesting but still the Hassan II mosque there is a must see. Same for Meknes, I didn't find it that interesting. In my opinion, Marrakech and Fes are the most interesting cities, The medinas are simply incredible and you are truly travelling in time.

From Fez you can easily visit Chefchouen, one of the best points of interest in the North, a nice and quite authentic town with a relaxed feeling.

From Marrakach, you might want to consider visiting Essouira, a sea-side resort town, the location is great but also is huge tourist spot which is fine unless you want to avoid that.

Also a good deal is to get a camel excursion into the desert and sleep overnight in a oasis, Omar at camel trekking (google it) this family company offer great services. unique trips and wonderful tours in sahara.

Morocco is a beautiful country but it is a country of extremes. Enjoy it.

I agree that the desert is a must...right now it is full of flowers after the recent rain and is a real picture.
I am living in Erfoud right now so if you have any questions about how to get here or what to see, feel free to e-mail me at maryking(at)
ecosse(dot)net
And yes, nothing to see in Casa once you've (briefly) visited the mosque.