The Sahara and beyond
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The winding streets of Morocco’s ancient medinas are bursting with so many colours and flavours that you’ll be planning a return visit soon after arrival. Explore the souks and streets of Marrakech and Fes, head to a luxury desert camp on an overnight 4x4 excursion, explore Atlas Mountains' villages and unwind on the coast in Essaouira. Travel is comfortable and well-paced, and our expert guide will be on hand to offer context and reveal its hidden gems. By focusing on the energy of the people, you'll discover the true treasures of Morocco.
ITINERARY B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner Day 1 Casablanca (1D) Arrive at any time, arrival transfer included. Enjoy a welcome dinner. Day 2 Meknes/Volubilis/Fes (1B) Enjoy a guided tour of the imperial city of Meknes. Continue on to the ruins of Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, before arriving in Fes. Day 3 Fes (1B) Step back in time and embark on a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-rated Fes medina. Explore winding lanes and alleys, visiting the many artisans, tanneries and shops with an expert local guide. Day 4-5 Marrakech (2B,1D) Travel to Marrakech. In the evening, experience all the colour and chaos of the famous Djemaa el Fna square. Watch storytellers, snake charmers and acrobats, while enjoying a simple and delicious local meal at a market food stall. On Day 5, explore with a local expert guide including the historical sites of Koutoubia Minaret, Palais Bahia, Palais Badi and Medresa Ben Youssef, the medina (old quarter) and the alleys of the bustling souks. Day 6 Aït Ben Haddou (1B,1D) Travel to Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Atlas Mountains, and explore this ancient kasbah village. Day 7 Erg Cheggaga Desert Camp (1B,1L,1D) Travel through the Draa Valley to Zagora and embark on 4x4s into the desert. Stop at Tamegroute to visit the library of ancient Islamic texts and local pottery makers. Continue off-road to the great dunes of Erg Cheggaga to stay at a deluxe desert camp. Enjoy a camel ride or climb to the top of the dunes for views of the vast Sahara. Tonight, enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars. Day 8 Zagora (1B) Cross the desert back to Zagora and enjoy a talk of the history of the Draa region, and visit local historical sites. Day 9 Taroudant (1B) Head towards the Anti-Atlas region to the carpet town of Tazenakht and Taliouine, where saffron is harvested. In Taroudant, visit the famed leather tanneries and local markets. Day 10-11 Tafraoute (2B,1L) Enter the Anti-Atlas region to view natural rock formations. This afternoon, explore the town centre and its local markets. On Day 11, visit Aït Mansour Gorge, the Painted Rocks and the Chapeau du Napoleon. Walk through a palm valley and have lunch in a local village house. Visit a women's cooperative that produces handicrafts and argan oil. Day 12-13 Essaouira (2B,1L) Travel to the Atlantic Coast to the port town of Essaouira. Head down to the port to see the fishing fleet unload their catch and discover the local artisans and woodworkers. Option to go sailing or visit a hammam (traditional spa and steam baths). Days 14 Marrakech (1B,1D) Return to Marrakech and visit Menara Gardens and the Jardin Majorelle. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a palace-style restaurant with local folklore entertainment. Day 15 Marrakech (1B) Depart at any time. CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU |
What's Included ?
Travel Style — Comfort
Great adventures with a few extra frills along the way.Looking for a little extra from your adventure but don’t want to skip out on all the genuine experiences? Comfort is your ticket. These trips offer upgraded accommodations and more inclusions while still delivering plenty of freedom to pursue spontaneous situations on your own. Physical Grading — 2
There'll be some light walking and hiking. Suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging. DEPARTURE DATES
2015 3/16, 4/13, 5/18, 6/15, 7/13, 8/17, 9/14, 10/12, 11/16, 12/14 2016 1/11, 2/15, 3/14, 4/11, 5/16, 6/13, 7/11, 8/15, 9/12, 10/10, 11/14, 12/12 CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO TOP OF PAGE
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