Would you like to travel to Morocco, but have stumbled across the month in which Ramadan takes place? Don't panic, there's nothing to stop you enjoying a holiday in Morocco during this major religious festival. On the contrary, a family holiday at this time of year has its advantages. Discover the advantages of a holiday in Morocco during Ramadan.
What is Ramadan Morocco?
Before discussing the advantages of a stay in Morocco during Ramadan, it's worth recalling what we're talking about.
Fasting during Ramadan
Ramadan is a Muslim festival, one of the five pillars of Islam, which takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar (lunar calendar). For one month, Muslim faithful around the world (Sunni and Shia) fast during the day. Fasting means abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual relations. It is effective from sunrise to sunset for all practising Muslims or believers in good health.
The only Muslims exempted are the sick (diabetics), pregnant (or breast-feeding) women and the elderly. In addition to abstinence, rituals such as the Night of Destiny (prayers and reading verses from the Koran) and Zakât al Fitr (almsgiving) are required.
Breaking the fast
A festival marking the revelation of the Koran, Ramadan is celebrated with exquisite, tasty food. In the evening, family and friends gather for the evening meal known as "ftour" or "iftar". The Muslim menu is very varied, with sweet and savoury delights. Pastries such as honey cakes and baked bread are mentioned. Some eat at home with their families, while others eat in a large mosque with the Imam and other worshippers.
It's an opportunity to share a moment of conviviality. Other activities are permitted, such as praying to Allah, chatting or playing cards. At dawn, Muslims take the shour, the meal preceding the day of fasting. Traditional Moroccan soups such as chorba or Harira with dates are popular.
What are the advantages of going to Morocco Ramadan?
Visiting Morocco during this lunar month offers many advantages for a holiday with family or friends. For a while, get to know Moroccan culture and the spirituality of the Muslim religion.
A niche away from the tourist crowds
Morocco is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. And for good reason, with its many sites (dunes, oases, palaces) and tourist activities (bivouac, quad biking, hiking) are well worth the diversions. The downside is that crowds are high. If you want to make the most of your trip, opt for a holiday during Ramadan, away from the crowds.
A culinary escapade rich in flavour
The holy month of Ramadan is an ideal time to discover Moroccan cuisine. Rich in flavour, this oriental cuisine delights all palates, Muslim and non-Muslim alike. For savoury dishes, Ramadan recipes include tajine, couscous and brick. These are very popular for celebrating the end of Ramadan, the small feast or Aïd el fitr. Sweet dishes include baklava and namoura.
A trip with a festive atmosphere
Ramadan is not just about fasting. It is also a time for brotherhood and charity. To mark the occasion, mosques organise collective iftars prepared by the Muslim community, where the needy are welcome. There are also events organised by hotels, such as the Riad Ksar Ingrad.
A month of Ramadan for a cheap holiday
If you're looking for a good plan to visit Morocco, the period of Ramadan (or Ramadhan) is recommended. This lunar month attracts fewer tourists to Muslim countries. Offers are therefore more affordable, ideal if you have a small travel budget. So make the most of Muslim celebrations and promotional offers (flights and accommodation) during the fasting period.
