Population: 37.46 million people.
Capital City: The capital city of Morocco is Rabat, although this hasn’t always been the case. Morocco is known for its four imperial capital cities – Fes, Meknes, Marrakesh and Rabat, which were built for kings and courtiers. Over the centuries, the capital has moved many times.
Fun Fact: It is widely understood that the little Atlas Mountains (or Anti-Atlas Mountains) are related to the Scottish Highlands and the Appalachian Mountains on the West Coast of the USA. They once formed the Central Pangean Mountains!
National Dish: Couscous
Language: Moroccans are notorious linguists! Morocco’s two official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). Between 30-40% of the population speak French, and a sizable percentage of the population in the north speak Spanish.
Buckle in, grab a cuppa and a biscuit—this is going to be a long one! If you're mulling over where to plan your next school expedition and haven't quite settled on a destination, why not consider Morocco? This North African gem is a treasure trove of educational adventures, combining diverse cultures, varied landscapes, and fascinating histories. Let's dive into why Morocco should be at the top of your list for school trips from the UK.
Why Morocco?
Here at STC Expeditions, we absolutely adore Morocco. It's a longstanding favourite amongst all of our team members—and with very good reason!
Value for Money: In Morocco, your students’ travel budget extends further, allowing for an extensive range of activities. Whether it's exploring the winding alleys of Marrakesh or experiencing the vast, open landscapes of the Sahara Desert, each pound spent translates into valuable educational and cultural experiences.
Proximity: Morocco is just a three-hour flight away from most major UK cities, making it an incredibly convenient choice for school trips. The short flight distance not only makes travel easier but also helps minimise the environmental impact. By choosing Morocco, students are participating in a more sustainable travel option, which supports our commitment to environmentally responsible educational experiences.
Diversity: The diverse offerings of Morocco are unmatched. From the challenging terrains of the Atlas Mountains to the bustling markets of coastal towns such as Essaouira, Morocco caters to a broad spectrum of academic and personal interests. This variety ensures that every student can find something that genuinely engages and excites them, enriching their overall learning experience.
Geographer's Paradise
Morocco offers geography teachers a dynamic classroom where Earth’s geological and cultural processes come vividly to life. Each environment, from the rugged Atlantic coast to the towering High Atlas Mountains, presents unique and compelling learning opportunities.
Coastal Regions: Morocco’s Atlantic coastline, especially around towns like Essaouira, provides a prime setting for studying coastal dynamics. This area is perfect for exploring topics such as coastal erosion, the role of marine ecosystems, and the impact of the ocean on both the geography and the local economies dependent on fishing and tourism.
High Atlas Mountains: The High Atlas Mountains are more than just a backdrop for breathtaking photos. They are a living classroom. Mt M'Goun, one of North Africa’s highest peaks, serves as an excellent case study for mountain geography. Here, students can explore topics like alpine biomes, geomorphological processes, and the effects of altitude on climate. The remote trails offer a peaceful environment for studying geological formations, erosion patterns, and the unique adaptations of local flora and fauna to high-altitude conditions.
Desert Landscapes: The contrasting desert environments of Morocco, from the rocky terrain of the Agafay Desert near Marrakesh to the vast dunes of the Sahara, offer rich insights into arid landscapes. The Agafay Desert's moon-like terrain is great for discussions on rock formations and erosion, while the iconic sand dunes of the Sahara exemplify aeolian (wind-driven) processes. Comparing these deserts illustrates the varied responses of ecosystems to extreme dryness.
Valleys: Whether visiting the fertile plains of the Toubkal Valley or the Bougmez Valley, students can physically see the critical role water plays in shaping the world around us. These valleys show how water availability affects agricultural practices, settlement patterns, and cultural development in arid to semi-arid environments. Furthermore, the contrasts between these valleys provide a practical look at how natural resources influence community life and economic activities.
Human Geography
But Morocco is not just a paradise for physical Geographers and Geologists. It also offers a number of teaching experiences for fans of Human Geography:
Ethnic Diversity and Identity: Focusing on the Berbers, indigenous to North Africa, provides insight into the cultures and languages that have historically shaped the region and continue to influence it today.
Urban vs. Rural Dynamics: Comparing life in the vibrant city of Marrakesh with that in rural Berber villages in the High Atlas Mountains illuminates demographic trends, migration patterns, and cultural practices. These comparisons help students understand urbanisation, its impact on rural communities, and the socio-economic transformations sweeping through Morocco.
Market Economies and Trade: The bustling markets of Marrakesh are not just colourful and lively—they are pivotal to the local economy. Here, students can explore local economic structures, the impact of tourism on development, and the journey of Moroccan products from local artisans to global markets.
A Haven for Religious Education Exploration
It's not just geographers who get all the fun. Morocco, just a stone’s throw from the UK, offers Religious Education teachers and their students a unique experience. As a majority Muslim country, Morocco provides a compelling setting for students to step directly into a world that may be significantly different from their own.
Although only eight miles separate Morocco from Europe, it is distinctly different in its cultural and religious practices. Observing Islamic traditions and practices firsthand both enriches students’ understanding of global religions and enhances their cultural awareness. Morocco is a vivid classroom for exploring the complexities and beauty of Islam, from hearing the call to prayer echo through the streets to seeing the faithful gather for mosque services.
Moreover, the trip offers a chance to discuss the historical interactions between Islamic and European cultures, especially relevant given Morocco's location on the cusp of Africa and Europe. This contrast provides context for discussions about cultural exchange, historical coexistence, and the nuances of religious identity in a globalised world.
Through visiting Morocco, students can discover how religion intertwines with daily life, influencing social norms, art, architecture, and even the legal system. Such insights are invaluable for nurturing a well-rounded, respectful understanding of a major world religion and its cultural manifestations.
Expedition Enthusiasts
For those seeking traditional adventure exploration, Morocco offers an incredible array of options that combine tough physical challenges with meaningful interaction and learning opportunities. Whether it’s engaging with local communities through project work, trekking through stunning landscapes, or enjoying diverse recreational activities, Morocco caters to all tastes and interests.
Project Work
At STC Expeditions, we take a unique approach to project work, focusing on sustainable and community-driven projects. For many years, we have been collaborating with local communities in the remote Bougmez Valley. Rather than imposing our ideas, we interact directly with local villagers to identify their actual needs at that point in time. This has led to a number of amazing projects such as constructing pathways and building waste disposal systems that genuinely enhance the community’s quality of life. This type of engagement not only fulfils the community’s needs but also offers profound lessons in altruism and cooperation for the students involved, ensuring that the impact of their work is both meaningful and lasting.
Trekking
Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains is a highlight of many of our Morocco expeditions. Most groups choose to ascend Mt M'Goun, Morocco’s third highest peak, which offers a quieter and more secluded path compared to the more frequented Mount Toubkal. This trek takes students across varied terrain, challenging them physically while rewarding them with breathtaking views and a deep sense of accomplishment once they reach the summit. The journey through the High Atlas is an unforgettable adventure that tests endurance and builds team spirit.
Other Activities
Morocco’s diverse landscape and rich culture provide a plethora of other activities that can enhance any educational trip. From surfing the waves in Essaouira, to camel rides in the vast deserts, and culinary lessons in Marrakesh, students can enjoy a wide range of experiences. Each activity offers a unique way to engage with the local culture and environment, making every moment of the trip as exciting as it is educational.
Well, there you have it! Now you know why Morocco is our most popular destination. With its unparalleled diversity—from the windswept Atlantic coast to the rugged peaks of the High Atlas, and from the rolling dunes of the Sahara to the bustling streets of Marrakesh—Morocco offers an educational adventure like no other. Coupled with incredible local guides who bring the culture and landscape to life, opting for this North African gem is a no-brainer. Whether your students are trekking up majestic mountains, engaging in meaningful community projects, or soaking in the vibrant local culture, they're guaranteed an experience that's as enriching as it is exciting.
Ready to speak to one of the team about your next expedition?