The Marvelous Moroccan Magpie

The Marvelous Moroccan Magpie

The Marvelous Moroccan Magpie: Nestled among the captivating landscapes of Morocco, from the vibrant Atlas Mountains to the fertile plains, lives an avian gem that often catches the eye and heart of nature enthusiasts—the Moroccan Magpie (Pica pica mauritanica). This striking bird is more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a testament to the wonders of adaptation and survival in diverse habitats. Let’s explore what makes this magpie so special.

A Unique Subspecies

The Moroccan Magpie is a subspecies of the Eurasian Magpie, but it stands apart with its own unique charm. Its plumage is a dazzling mix of glossy black and crisp white, with flashes of blue and green shimmering on its wings and tail. What really makes it stand out is the striking blue patch behind its eyes—a feature its European relatives don’t share. It’s also slightly smaller, giving it a delicate, almost playful appearance.

Primarily found in Morocco, this bird also stretches its wings into parts of Tunisia and Algeria, making it a true North African treasure.

Habitat and Behavior

The Moroccan Magpie is a master of adaptation. It thrives in a variety of landscapes, from open woodlands and agricultural fields to urban areas. It’s not uncommon to spot these birds hopping gracefully on the ground or perched on low branches, chattering away with their distinctive calls.

These magpies are social creatures, often seen in pairs or small groups. They’re known for their strong bonds and cooperative behaviors, which make them fascinating to observe. Plus, they’re incredibly intelligent—problem solvers with a curious streak that keeps them exploring their surroundings.

Diet and Foraging

The Moroccan Magpie isn’t picky when it comes to food. As an omnivore, it enjoys a varied diet of insects, small mammals, fruits, grains, and even carrion. Their foraging habits are a mix of careful ground-scanning and opportunistic scavenging. This not only keeps them well-fed but also makes them valuable to the ecosystem, as they help control pests and clean up waste.

Cultural Significance

The Moroccan Magpie is more than just a bird—it’s a symbol woven into the fabric of local culture. In Moroccan folklore, it’s often seen as a clever and resourceful creature, appearing in tales and proverbs that highlight its intelligence. For birdwatchers and nature lovers, spotting a Moroccan Magpie is a moment of pure joy, a highlight of any trip to this beautiful country.

Conservation Status

While the Moroccan Magpie isn’t currently endangered, it faces challenges like habitat loss and urbanization. Protecting its natural habitats and finding ways to coexist with human development are key to ensuring this charismatic bird continues to thrive. After all, it’s a living reminder of the beauty and resilience of Morocco’s wildlife.

Spotting the Moroccan Magpie

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, keep your eyes peeled for this delightful bird. Whether you’re hiking the foothills of the Atlas Mountains or wandering through the countryside, the Moroccan Magpie is a sight you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera—its shimmering feathers and spirited personality are worth capturing!

The Moroccan Magpie is more than just a bird; it’s a symbol of Morocco’s rich natural heritage. Its beauty, intelligence, and adaptability remind us of the wonders that thrive in this diverse land. So, next time you’re in Morocco, take a moment to appreciate this feathered gem—it might just steal your heart.

Visit Ait Ben Haddou: The Best MoroccanUNESCO Heritage

Explore the Enchanting Ait Ben Haddou

Visit Ait Ben Haddou:The Best MoroccanUNESCO Heritage: Located in the striking region of southeastern Morocco, Ait Ben Haddou is a picturesque village that has been alluring travelers throughout the centuries. This site, recognized by UNESCO, which is located on the banks of the Ounila River, belongs to the magnificent landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains, which possesses one of the most astonishing ksars (fortified villages) in Morocco.

A Look To The Past

Ait Ben Haddou’s history is largely believed to have started in the 17th century, being able to serve as a vital passage for caravans between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech. The settlement demonstrates impressive earthen structures with lofty kasbahs and narrow passages, which show the aesthetics of the ears as well as Moroccan ingenuity.

Ait Ben Haddou – The Ksar Louvre

At Ben Haddou, one can get lost within the delicately constructed kasbahs and the magnificent scenery or take a stroll down the narrow and relatively opaque streets that interfere with the skyline. The nature, coupled with the rich cultural heritage of the ksar, has attracted many filmmakers and television serial directors to many of the places, such as the sites of “The Gladiator,” “Game of Thrones,” and “The Mummy.”

Unearthing the Culture

Ait Ben Haddou is not only famous for its architecture; it is also a place to engage in the Moroccan culture. Visit local craftsmen who produce beautiful handicrafts to benefit from this. Socialize with friendly locals over a cup of mint tea and discover their lifestyle.

Relocating a Culture(Ait Ben Haddou)

Ait Ben Haddou is only 30 kilometers from Ouarzazate, so Ait Ben Haddou can be easily visited in a day from Ouarzazate.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to travel to either Ait Ben Haddou or Ouarzazate is the spring season from March to May or the fall season from September to November.

How Return Tickets Work: You can drive, take a taxi, or be a part of a guided staff member in Ouarzazate and reach Ait Ben Haddou.

Explore Morocco with Our Expert

Explore Morocco with Our Expert

Customized Tours & Adventures.

Experience Morocco like never before! Whether you want to enjoy the warm culture of Marrakech, admire the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, or stroll through the quaint alleys of Fes, our professional travel agency will put together an amazing trip that encompasses all your expectations.

Art-Desert-Tours will provide you with particular experiences ranging from the expensive to the cheapest in accordance with them, including the unique local stays and the best of the best. Our trips will ensure that you experience what it is like to travel in Morocco.

Why Travel With Us?(Explore Morocco)

Customized Tours: If every traveler is different, their tours must be different as well. That’s why we design and create bespoke holiday packages that give you the freedom to travel around Morocco how you would enjoy the most.

Local Expertise: Our local guide will always be acquainted with deep knowledge of Moroccan culture, history, and little-known facts. You will always find something interesting to do while wandering in the busy souks of Marrakech or while proceeding with your trek through the Atlas Mountains.

Southeast Morocco’s Highlights: Cultural and art workshops in the medinas Camel treks in the Sahara are just the tip of the iceberg of the wonderful, unforgettable adventures that we have to offer you.

Our Services Cover These Major Destinations(Explore Morocco)

Marrakech: Dive into the vibrant colors, the traditional souks and local shops, and the magnificent and amazing palaces.

Fes: Explore and enjoy one of the most astounding medieval cities in the world.

Sahara Desert: Taste and get a feel for the charm that these deserts possess through camel rides and sleepovers in luxury tents.

Chefchaouen: Tour the picturesque “Blue City” and enjoy its views of the Rif Mountains.

Don’t be late: The Moroccan excursion is calling you.

You are planning to visit Morocco but are unsure of what to expect. Be rest assured, Morocco features all sorts of culture, splendid landscapes generously complimented with hearts of gold. We can help you achieve your vision and in case you are still undecided – have no fear as our attentive team is here for you solo travelers, couples, families or friends looking to escape for a while.

Send us a message and let’s book your unique Morocco trip together. Let’s take you around Morocco from the buzzing markets to the quiet deserts.

Can I book a private tour?

Can I book a private tour?

Can I book a private tour?

yes of course. All tours in our site web are private Before making any travel arrangements with us, this is among the first things you should think about.To put it another way, you must choose whether you wish to travel to Morocco alone or with others before making your reservation.

Details of private tour(and customized) travel:

You are not required to share a transport with others when traveling privately. The only people in the transport are you and your group (friends or family).We try to make it as private as possible according to your desires.

Whether in the morning or during the day, private excursions provide you the flexibility to move at your own speed without having to wait for other people, which frees up more time for sightseeing and included activities. There are no required extra services; you are free to pay to attend certain sights, hire a local guide, or forego them completely. Private tours offer more flexibility for alterations if discussed at the time of booking, but they may have an impact on cost. In contrast to group tours, private tours do not involve shopping stops unless specifically requested. We plan and conduct the daily tours, which are suitable for large groups of people.

About the tour —> any tour has its details under. If something is not clear, you can contact us for more info.

Fes-Explore the Rich History and Culture

Fes-Explore the Rich History and Culture

Fes-Explore the Rich History and Culture : the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities. Fez was founded in 729 by Idriss I, who was fleeing the Abbasids of Baghdad. He had led local Berbers in the conquest of the region and established the Kingdom of Morocco before being poisoned. by the Abbasids. In the 9th century, there were immigrants from Spain (mainly Muslim families). fleeing the Catholic Reconquista), and Tunisia brought expertise and wealth to the burgeoning city. Today, the city consists of two old Medina quarters, Fes el-Bali and Fes Jdid, and the much larger modern urban Ville Nouvelle area funded during the French colonial area.

what is the lifestyle of  fes?

 Fes is a city in Morocco with a rich history and cultural heritage. The lifestyle of its residents may vary depending on various factors, such as their background, occupation, and personal preferences. However, some general characteristics of the lifestyle in Fes known A strong sense of community and family ties A predominantly Muslim culture, with many residents practicing Islam and following traditional customs and rituals A focus on education and self-improvement, with a long tradition of scholarship and learning A vibrant arts and culture scene with a rich history of music, dance, and handicrafts A mix of traditional and modern influences, with a blend of ancient architecture and modern amenities

Overall, the lifestyle in Fes may be characterized by a strong sense of tradition and cultural pride.as well as a sense of community and social responsibility.

the foods in  fes city?

 As we know, Morocco has many places where their culture can be found. food, lifestyle, and economy. Fes City has different meals, and we want to share with you some of the most delicious and popular. For example, at the camel stall, to prepare it, we got some of the camel meat ground with a bunch of different spices. Some barbers, after blending all things, put them right on charcoal. Fire finally ate it with some bread. There are also Malwis in other places in Morocco. Then call them Msamin, Harcha, and Bissara soup. You can prepare it by using You can learn more when you visit Fez.

where is fes City’s location?

 Fez is a city located in the northeast of Morocco. Considered the cultural capital of Morocco, it is renowned for its famous bustling souks, medieval architecture, mosques, tanneries, religious schools, museums, and fondouks, fortified Medina. You can take a Look at the picture on the left, there are maps that will help you understand more for you started your tour to visit it.

marrakech the red city in morocco(amor n wakoch)

marrakech the red city in morocco

marrakech the red city in morocco: Marrakech, or the city of Morocco, is the cultural center of Morocco. For almost a millennium, the city has been a political and financial hub. For southern Morocco throughout its illustrious history, it has even served As the capital of multiple empires, the city is integral to Moroccan history. that the country is known as Marrakech is various Asian countries today Marrakech’s The illustrious past is commoditized through its booming tourism industry every year. of visitors flock to the city and witness first-hand its rich heritage. The story of Marrakech starts around 1070 a.d., when it was founded by the El Moravids, a group of Berbers from the fringes of the Sahara desert. The city was a perfect location because it was close. enough to extend into northern Morocco, but it also wasn’t too far from the Sahara, so it kept the Al-Muraveds were close to their ancestral homeland; in the beginning, Marrakech remained relatively insignificant in terms of commerce and scholarship because of its barren location, but that all changed once the Al-Muravids tasted the fruits of Andalusia culture after their invasion in 1086. under the leadership of Yusuf bin Tashvin Yusuf’s son Ali changed the city’s organization and made it into a real imperial center, he improved the water supply in the city by building cisterns and underground water channels, which in turn helped grow the city’s urban population, which allowed tanneries to be opened up, and this is where you get the famous Moroccan leather, and you can still see many tanneries throughout Marrakech today; there were also more merchants settling in Marrakech, which led to more riyads being built, which are the traditional Moroccan homes that have inner courtyards or gardens But the El Moravid time in power would soon come to an end after less than a century in 1147 Marrakech. fell to the al-Mihad, another Berber group that was especially strict.

what is the lifestyle of  Marrakech?

Marrakech is a city in Morocco with a rich cultural and historical heritage. The lifestyle in Marrakech is influenced by its Islamic and Berber heritage. as well as by modern Western influences. The traditional lifestyle in Marrakech is centered around family and community, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and socializing. People often gather in cafes and public places to drink tea, play games, and engage in conversation. Traditional dress, which includes djellabas and kaftans, is still common, especially in more conservative neighborhoods. In recent years, Marrakech has become a popular tourist destination, and the city has seen an influx of Western-style cafes, restaurants, and shops. This has led to a blending of traditional and modern lifestyles. with many young people adopting more Western styles of dress and behavior. Overall, the lifestyle in Marrakech is a mix of traditional and modern elements, with a strong focus on community, hospitality, and socializing.

the foods in  Marrakech city?

marrakech the red city in morocco

 

In Marrakech, exactly in Jamaa El Fna, you can find the famous and delicious foods, for example, tagines and Marrakech royal lamb, this last meal needs more time than others because the first thing we need to do is prepare the oven when we talk about an oven with a distance of [3*4*5 m] They put the wood inside and started the fire with leaves.  holes so that oxygen can enter the oven. When wood turns into coal, close these holes, and they start to put a lamb inside after 2 or 2 and a half hours. Finally, you get your great meal; in fact, it is fantastic experience else there are couscous, some amazing snail soup, the most famous food in Marrakech. tangier of pots full of delicious ingredients, lamb and In fact, meat plays an important role in special meals.

where is Marrakech City’s location?

 Located just north of the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is one of the main cities of the kingdom of Morocco and was one of Morocco’s imperial Cities. Like many other large settlements in the kingdom, it has a Medina. Which is an old walled district. In fact, the medina of Marrakech is a UNESCO World Heritage site For orientation, the Jemaa el-Fna Square, square, and marketplace in Marakech’s Medina, located just outside the square, is the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in the city. In the center of Joseph School, Almoravid Koubba, and the Musée deMarrakech

merzouga a desert wonderland in Morocco

merzouga a desert wonderland
 merzouga a desert wonderland in morocco is a small Moroccan village located in the Sahara Desert, near the
Algerian border. The village is known for its close proximity to the Erg Chebbi.
dunes, which are a popular tourist destination. The history of Merzouga is closely
tied to the history of the Sahara Desert, which has been inhabited by various cultures.
for thousands of years.
The area was once home to the Garamantes, an ancient civilization.
that flourished in the Sahara from the 5th century BC to the 5th century AD.
In history, Merzouga has served as a stopping point for travelers crossing the Sahara, and it
has become a popular destination
for tourists seeking to experience the desert’s unique culture and landscape.
 

what is the lifestyle of Merzouga?

The lifestyle in Merzouga, a small village in the Sahara Desert in Morocco, is likely to be influenced by the harsh desert climate and the traditional culture. of the region. In general, the people of Merzouga are likely to be relatively isolated. due to the village’s remote location in the desert. Life in the desert can be challenging, as the harsh climate can make it difficult to grow crops and access clean water. As a result, the people of Merzouga may rely on traditional methods of survival. such as raising livestock and collecting water from underground sources. Despite the challenges of living in the desert, the people of Merzouga are likely to have a rich

cultural tradition. They may participate in various cultural activities, such as music, dance, and storytelling, and they may also follow traditional religious practices. Tourism is an important part of the economy in Merzouga, and many villagers may work in the tourism industry, hosting travelers and leading desert tours. In recent years, the village has also become a popular destination for adventure sports such as dune biking and sandboarding.

the foods in  Merzouga  city?

merzouga a desert wonderland

Merzouga is a small village in the Sahara Desert, so the local cuisine is influenced by by the ingredients that are readily available in the desert region. Some common foods in Merzouga include: Couscous is a type of grain made from semolina that is a staple food in many parts of North Africa. including Morocco. It is often served with vegetables, meat, or fish. Tagine: a type of stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices and cooked in a conical pot called a tagine. Harira is a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables and often served with dates. Pastilla: a savory pastry filled with meat, almonds, and spices and coated in a layer of sweet, flaky pastry. Mint tea is a popular beverage made with green tea, mint leaves, and sugar. It is often used as a sign. of hospitality. Other foods that may be available in Merzouga include various types of bread, olives, and dates. As a tourist destination, the village may also offer a variety of international cuisines.   

where is Merzouga City’s location?

Merzouga is a small village located in the Sahara Desert region of Morocco. near the border with Algeria. It is located in the province of Errachidia, in the eastern part of the country. The village is situated about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the town of Rissani and about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Erfoud. It is known for its close proximity. to the Erg Chebbi dunes, which are a popular tourist destination. The nearest major city is Fez. which is located about 400 kilometers (250 miles) to the northwest of Merzouga.

Chefchaouen the blue city(Chaouen )

chefchaouen
Chefchaouen the blue city: The  Chefchaouen city is one of the best and
different towns in Morocco, its blue color makes it amazing
and has a rich history.The princess of jihad, Sayyida al-Hurrah, or «Sit al Hurrah,” who was
able to rule this, and another neighboring one, Tetouan, is one of the
oldest cities in Morocco history. Sayyida al-Hurrah was born exactly in Chefchaouen.
city in the year 1493, after one year of Granada’s fall, there are Spanish historians who
call her Aisha. Her father is the founder of the city, and her mother has a Spanish nationality.
from the Kadesh region who converted to Islam. Historian Moulay Ali Raissouni told Al-Quds Al-Arabi
newspaper, «Her real name is Al-Sayida Al-Hurra. Her father called her Al-Hurra after the name of
the mother of Abu Abdullah Al-Ahmar,the last king of Granada, who was a friend of the founder of
Chafchaouen. Prominent historical figures are associated with the city, but the city’s residents
are proud of the princess who ruled their city, “Sayida Al Hurra,”  the daughter of Prince Moulay.
Ali bin Musa bin Rachid. Historical sources tell us, especially what the Spanish historian Rodolfo
 Gil Grimau wrote, «She was taught by the most famous scholars and clerics in Chefchaouen.
 

what is the lifestyle of  Chefchaouen(Chefchaouen the blue city)?

The Chefchaouen city, or the blue city, in Morocco is very instagrammable and instagramed elsewhere, lots of tourists that the first They are motivated to visit for this reason. The contrast is flagrant with Tetouan City. However, many visitors are passing through and staying in Chefchaouen to sleep there. Thus,

During the morning and evening, the city is really quiet. If some inhabitants naturally seek to earn a few dirhams from the dazzling success of their little blue town (especially thanks or because of Instagram) by trading a few dirhams for a photo in an alley dedicated to Photography, strolling in Chefchaouen is one of the most pleasant. The city is built on a hill. So step by step, and stairs are everywhere. Every alley taken is a surprise; we want to sneak everywhere.  The medina is very quiet compared to those of major Moroccan cities. The small Blue Town has long been white, like many mountain villages in the Rif and Andalisia. If some say that blue was chosen to keep mosquitoes away, the real reason turns out to be even more pragmatic, we can see that too from women’s clothes. The women of this village are said to have banded together about 20 years ago to find ways to attract visitors. Perhaps influenced by Essaouira and Asilah chose to make Chefchaouen a blue village.

the foods in  Chefchaouen city?

Any place in the world has a different foods for Morocco exactly In Chefchaouen City, there are many delicious meals, but we want to give you and to know the most famous meals in Chefchaouen, for example, cornbread with amlo by dip the corndbread in amlo you going to get delicious taste, that is one of my favorite things in

city. There are other differences. Tagine’s for things that cook a little bit faster, like fish. and eggs, shrimp, and one of the famous meals is the lubia, which is a type of bean. In fact There are many foods that you can taste when you visit Chefchaouen city.

where is Chefchaouen City’s location?

  Chefchaouen city is located in northern Morocco, about 90 km from Tangier. overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, and among the 240 km north of the Morocco capital [Rabat city], in the middle of Rif lountains with difficult terrain. As for the name of the city, it is prevalent. that it is derived from a word of Berber origin, which is “Echaouen,”which means centuries, and is usually called the sharp mountain peaks. Some prefer to reduce the name of the city to Chaouen. And some specialists go to provide different explanations for the source of the name.

3 Places You Should Visit in Morocco

gallery of art desert tours company

3 Places You Should Visit in Morocco

Marrakech:

Marrakech, a vibrant city in Morocco, enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively markets. The bustling souks, filled with colorful textiles, handcrafted pottery, and aromatic spices, invite exploration, while the iconic Koutoubia Mosque and the serene Majorelle Garden showcase the city’s diverse cultural heritage. The lively atmosphere of Djemaa el-Fna Square, with its street performers and food stalls, provides an unforgettable experience, capturing the essence of Moroccan life. Whether wandering through the historic Medina or indulging in traditional cuisine, a visit to Marrakech promises a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

Chefchaouen:

Visiting Chefchaouen, often called the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco, is a captivating experience that immerses you in a world of vibrant blue-washed buildings nestled in the Rif Mountains. The town’s winding streets invite leisurely exploration, revealing artisanal shops, local crafts, and charming cafes where you can savor traditional Moroccan mint tea. The stunning backdrop of the mountains enhances the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection. Don’t miss the chance to hike nearby trails, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. Chefchaouen is not just a destination; it’s a serene escape that enchants every visitor.

Merzouga:

Visiting Merzouga, a gateway to the majestic Sahara Desert, offers an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. The highlight of any trip is a camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you can witness breathtaking sunsets and spend a night under the star-studded sky in a traditional Berber tent. The town itself is vibrant, with local markets and friendly residents who share their customs and stories. Explore nearby oases and ancient kasbahs, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the desert, where silence reigns and the shifting sands create a mesmerizing backdrop. Merzouga is a place where nature and culture intertwine, leaving lasting memories for every traveler.