Morocco, a must see country in 2020- Lonely Planet says

The beautiful blue medina of Chefchaouen in Morocco

Leading international tourism publication agency, Lonely Planet, advises its readers to visit Morocco in 2020 saying that the country is a gateway to Africa and a country of dizzying diversity, where the visitor will find epic mountain ranges, ancient cities, sweeping deserts – and warm hospitality.

“The Kingdom of Morocco, known as the place the sun sets, is a romantic and exotic destination, and it’s known as a safe place to visit,” Lonely Planet said in its annual recommendations of top ten countries to visit next year.

“Many people are drawn to its beaches, but its ancient cities, such as Casablanca and Marrakesh, attract the most visitors,” it said, adding that beyond its centuries-old cities and urban attractions and sandy beaches, the country offers visitors unrivaled hiking trails in the Atlas and Rif mountains.

Morocco is having a moment, with time-honored attractions complemented by sustainable-yet-stylish lodging, restaurants serving up seasonal produce and coastal wellness retreats mixing up yoga and surfing. And thanks to improved infrastructure it’s easier to get around by road, while Africa’s first high-speed train means that you can zip from Casablanca to Tangier in just two hours. Ancient medinas are getting a makeover in Fez, Essaouira, Meknes, Tetouan and Marrakesh, which will be crowned Africa’s first Capital of Culture in 2020 in celebration of its rich heritage. And you can still escape the crowds in Berber mountain villages, deserted Atlantic beaches and far-flung desert outposts.

Morocco maintained its leadership as the most competitive tourism market in North Africa and one of the most attractive tourist destinations on the continent, said the World Economic Forum.

Tourism makes up about 7% of Morocco’s GDP and employs more than 2.7 million people. The North African country has attracted 12.3 million tourists in 2018 making it the largest African tourism market as it has become the 30th most visited country globally.