Egypt Vs Morocco: Which Destination is Right for You? - Days to Come (2024)

Egypt and Morocco are without a doubt two of the most popular destinations in North Africa. While they’re both home to camels, ancient cultures and the sweeping Sahara Desert, they both provide two very different experiences.

So if you’re struggling to choose between the Great Pyramids or Ait Benhaddou, On The Go Tours have compiled everything you need to know about Egypt and Morocco to help find the right destination for you.

Egypt

What type of traveller is best suited to Egypt?

If you’ve always been fascinated by the bandaged mummies, secret tombs and golden treasures of ancient Egypt, then visiting the Land of the Pharaohs will be a dream come true. And you don’t have to be a history buff to be wowed by Egypt’s ancient wonders.

Of course, there are the Great Pyramids of Giza (which held the title of the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,000 years), the mighty Nile River snaking from north to south and over on the Eastern Border you’ll find the Red Sea. Ths is why we love Egypt: the country offers plenty of opportunities for those who want to relax on the water, soak up the sun or immerse themselves in a historical and cultural experience.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

Thanks to its dry climate, Egypt is a year-round destination. However, you should know that the summer months can be particularly hot, especially as you head south towards the cities of Aswan and Luxor. Most travellers agree that the best time to visit is from September to April, and Christmas, New Year’s and Easter are typically the most popular times to book (regardless of the climate).

What’s it like to go on a tour in Egypt?

In comparison to travelling independently, being on a tour in Egypt has one huge advantage – the tour guides.Local guides in Egypt are proud to show visitors their country, and most are qualified in Egyptology studies which means you’ll gain a much deeper understanding of this country’s ancient civilisation. You can soak up their expert knowledge, ask every question that springs to mind and enjoy a sightseeing experience like no other. Plus, with the added security of travelling on atour in Egypt, you’ll never have to worry about your safety.

What are the highlights in Egypt?

Pyramids of Giza

Constructed some 4,500 years ago, the Pyramids of Giza are one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. These feats of ancient engineering are so impressive that scientists today are still uncertain as to how they were built.

Felucca sailing

The best way to experience a journey on the longest river in the world is aboard a felucca. These traditional sailboats have sailed along the Nile for thousands of years, and many tours will offer the option to spend a night on deck sleeping under the stars.

Valley of the Kings

Set on the west bank of the Nile, this vast necropolis was the burial ground for many pharaohs. The most famous of its royal tombs is that of the boy-king Tutankhamun, and it lies just a stone’s throw away from the imposing Temple of Hatshepsut; one of only three ruling queens in Egypt.

The Red Sea

If it’s sun, sand and the sea that you’re after, there are plenty of resorts on the Red Sea where you can enjoy some downtime. With some of the finest offshore reefs in the world, activities here include scuba diving and snorkelling, yachting, deep-sea fishing and windsurfing.

Abu Simbel Temple

One of the most spectacular structures in Egypt, these UNESCO-listed temples are carved out of a sandstone cliff and feature four colossal statues guarding their entrance. Dedicated to King Ramses II, they were unknown to the outside world until their rediscovery in the 19th century.

What are the must-try dishes in Egypt?

• Koshary: Considered to be Egypt’s national dish, koshary is made from rice, lentils, macaroni and a spicy tomato sauce.
• Ful medames: An Egyptian staple made primarily from mashed fava beans and sometimes topped with olive oil, lemon juice, onion, garlic or parsley, this dish is an absolute must-try.
• Fatta: This Nubian dish traditionally consists of lamb, rice, fried pitta and a creamy garlic sauce and is served on special occasions.
• Fiteer baladi: Egypt’s answer to pizza, Fiteer Baladi is a stone-baked bread made from layers of buttery Filo pastry and served with either savoury or sweet toppings.

What do I need to know before visiting Egypt?

1. The tap water in Egypt is heavily chlorinated, and it’s recommended to drink bottled mineral water to avoid an upset stomach.
2. Tipping is expected by anyone that has provided a service and is greatly appreciated.
3. Both men and women are expected to dress modestly and cover their shoulders. Shorts are also only acceptable at beach resorts.
4. During Ramadan, some local restaurants close for the entire month and historic sites may close earlier than normal.
5. The left hand is considered unclean, similarly to in India, so when eating or handing an item to someone be sure to use your right hand.

Morocco

What type of traveller is best suited to Morocco?

If you’re more into natural landscapes than antiquities, Morocco is the place for you. With epic mountain ranges, seas of sand dunes and a rugged coastline, this is a country of spectacular natural diversity.

Morocco’s bustling souks, ancient medinas and traditional Berber communities also provide an incredibly exotic experience for those looking to immerse themselves in another culture. But being a far cry from the Western world, they can at first appear overwhelming or even intimidating to some travellers.

If you’re prepared to haggle, Morocco is any shopaholic’s dream. With countless stalls and colourful shops, you could spend hours browsing the handwoven rugs and leather bags on display.

Discover our best Morocco vacation packages.

When is the best time to visit Morocco?

Morocco is also a year-round destination, although the climate differs across the country due to the distinct regions of the coast, desert and mountains. Therefore, the best time to visit may vary according to your choice of activity.

For example, Morocco’s mountainous regions are at their most beautiful and green in springtime, from mid-March to May, making for stunning hiking. However, you can expect the majority of Morocco to be warm and dry in April and May.

What’s it like to go on a tour in Morocco?

Being on tour in Morocco involves not only experiencing this country’s diverse landscape but also getting to know a diverse range of people. With other travellers from all over the world, you’ll likely make some new friends as you soak up this country’s top sights. Another bonus of travelling on tour includes having reliable transportation sorted out for you in advance.

If you’re planning on camping out in the Sahara, there’s nothing better than having some travel companions to swap stories with around the fire.

What are the highlights in Morocco?

Djemaa el Fna

Referred to as the heart of Marrakech, this exuberant central square is a melting pot of sights, sounds and aromatic smells. By day, you can shop for spices, carpets and jewellery, then at night be dazzled by mysterious storytellers, dancers, magicians and more.

Ait Benhaddou

Movie buffs may recognize this ancient ksar from the likes of Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy and the Gladiator. Offering some of Morocco’s most beautiful kasbahs and stunning views of the High Atlas, it’s easy to see why this has been such a popular filming location.

City of Fes

For the best taste of Moroccan culture, look no further than the imperial city of Fes and its UNESCO-listed medina. Take time to explore this medieval labyrinth, with its pungent tanneries, traditional handicrafts and some of the tastiest food in Morocco.

Sahara Sand Dunes

Whether you’re exploring by dune buggy or on an epic camel trek, there’s no denying the Sahara’s otherworldly landscape is breathtaking. The sand dunes of Erg Chebbi rise to heights of 150 metres, and you can spend a night star-gazing amongst them at a remote Berber camp.

The High Atlas Mountains

As the highest mountain range in North Africa, the High Atlas form a natural border between Morocco’s temperate coast and the heat of the Sahara. This striking landscape is populated by the Berber people, traditionally nomadic herders, who still inhabit the mud-thatched and stone villages found here today.

What are the must-try dishes in Morocco?

• Tagine: Morocco’s biggest culinary export, tagines are named after the clay pot with a conical lid that they’re prepared in. Although their ingredients vary from region to region, these slow-cooked stews are always served with bread.
• Harira: During Ramadan, Muslims break their fast each sunset with a nourishing bowl of harira soup. Prepared with lamb, lentils, tomatoes and chickpeas, it’s topped with chopped coriander and lemon juice, before being served with a sweet pretzel.
• Zaalouk: Moroccan meals often begin with an array of salads, dips and bread. So be sure to look out for zaalouk, a smoked aubergine dip that’s seasoned with cumin, paprika, garlic and chilli powder.
• B’stilla: Traditionally served at weddings, this pie has recently become a street food sensation in Morocco. Layers of flaky pastry are stuffed with a blend of pigeon meat, eggs and almonds and spiced with cinnamon, saffron and fresh coriander.

What do I need to know before visiting Morocco?

1. Visitors should stick to bottled water as the tap water in Morocco is considered unsafe to drink.
2. Most of the mosques in Morocco are off-limits to non-Muslims.
3. Morocco is on Greenwich Meantime (GMT), however during the holy month of Ramadan Daylight Saving is not observed.
4. Unless you see a sign stating a fixed price, you can safely assume that all market stalls are open to haggling.
5. The Moroccan Dirham is a restricted currency, meaning that it’s not widely available abroad and you cannot take it out of the country.

Phrases and Words

Egypt

Ahlan

Hello

Ismee…

My name is…

Ana Fahma

I understand

‘an iznik

Excuse me

U’af!

Stop!

Morocco

Smiti…

My name is…

Besseha

Bon appetit

Fhmet

I understand

Ana men…

I’m from…

Mrheba

Welcome

Where will you go next? Tell us in the comments below.