Morocco had a banner year in 2024, with tourist numbers reaching over 17 million, a number predicted for 2026 and yet reached two years ahead of time.
With new air routes getting underway, both international and domestic, and new hotels and luxury brands setting up in the country, Morocco is very much on the up and up. For the first time, it outdrew Egypt as the top destination for travellers in Africa. Tourist numbers are predicted to reach 26 million per year by 2030, the year Morocco co-hosts the World Cup, alongside Spain and Portugal.
All of which means, now is the time to go! Azdean and Destination Morocco podcast producer Ted Cragg discuss, in today's episode, what in particular to prepare for in 2025, particularly events and prices that could affect your travels.
They highlight some of the numerous large festivals that take place throughout the year, including the Gnawa Music Festival in Essaouira in June, and the Marrakech International Film Festival in December. These are annual events that always draw large crowds, but equally are exciting and prestigious events to witness.
Adding to the excitement though in 2025, and in a preview of what's to come 5 years from now, are some major international football/soccer tournaments that will take place in Morocco.
The U-17 Africa Cup of Nations will be held from March 30 to April 19, followed by the Women's Africa Cup of Nations from July 5 to 26.
Then, FIFA's U-17 Women's World Cup will take place from October 17 to November 8, expanded to 24 teams for the first time.
And in the largest of them all, Morocco will host for the second time ever the Africa Cup of Nations, starting towards the end of the year, December 21, 2025 and running to January 18, 2026. This major tournament will be spread amongst six cities across the country: Tangier, Agadir, Rabat, Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca.
Therefore, if you are planning a visit during one of these festivals or tournaments, make sure you do your research! Prices will likely be inflated, and accommodation will be less available and flexible as the dates draw near.
Alternatively, knowing when these events are taking place may help you decide exactly when to go, if you would rather avoid the crowds and the hype and go at a quieter pace.
Either way, we have lots to look forward to in Morocco in 2025, an exciting year in and of itself, but also a prelude of what to expect for the rest of the decade.
04:45 Morocco's Tourism Achievements in 2024
10:57 Earthquake Recovery Update
15:52 Upcoming Festivals in Morocco
25:41 Upcoming Major Soccer Tournaments in Morocco
27:40 Travel Tips and Planning for Morocco
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