Morocco

Blending Arab, African, and European influences, Morocco’s diverse and vibrant culture is only outdone by its geography. Verdant plains issue forth from the Mediterranean Sea before rising through evergreen forests into the red and barren Atlas Mountains. From the 4,000-metre-tall peak of Toubkal, the range winds its way down into the Sahara Desert, while the Atlantic Ocean breaks in waves along the entire western border. In the north, metropolises such as Rabat, Casablanca, and Tangier bustle with industry and tourism. In the south, small outposts such as Zagora and Tafraoute rely on mountains, oases, and sand dunes to draw adventurous souls in search of new experiences. In the centre sits Marrakesh, amalgamating the various cultures and regions into a melting pot scented by spices and brought to a boil by the manic energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa.