Explore the ancient labrynthine medina of Marrakech, astonishing landscape of the Atlas Mountains and extraordinary Sahara Desert. The twelve day trip also allows for time by the beach in Essaouira.
This tour has been planned to be suitable for the younger members of your family. It includes shorter drive times, and opportunities to both explore or relax by the pool! Enjoy this adventure which takes in many of the sights between the Sahara Desert and Atlantic coast.
Day 1
Marrakech - Welcome to the sights, sounds and smells of Morocco! Remember your pre-departure meeting is at 6:00pm so arrive in time to meet your tour leader and the rest of the group. You will spend your first night at our pre-expedition hotel in the centre of town.
Day 2
Ouarzazate - Leaving Marrakech, we set off and drive over the stunning High Atlas mountains en route to Ouarzazate, which African traders once used on their journeys up to Europe. Step into a movie set as we visit the famous film studios which have been used for films such as Kingdom of Heaven, Alexander the Great, The Last Temptation of Christ and The Living Daylights.
Day 3
Sahara Desert - Crossing the Jebel Saghrou, we head down to Erg Chebbi sand dunes, which signify the commencement of the mighty Sahara Desert. The adventure really begins as we transfer to our transport into the desert – camels! Travelling on a traditional camel caravan, we trek into the desert to a Berber camp. The sand dunes await as well as local food and a night of entertainment under the Saharan stars.
Day 4
Todra Gorge - Our journey continues to the breath-taking Todra Gorge, with its towering high gorge walls which reach up over 300m. Today you’ll appreciate the charm of Todra as you witness it's ever changing colours, as the sun slowly moves from east to west. Or alternatively you could choose just to relax by the pool and soak up the atmosphere. For those over 16 there is time to try your hand at rock climbing – hang on!
Day 5
Gorges du Dades - We make our way to the beautiful Gorges du Dades, a stunning valley which extends from the High Atlas to the Jebel Saghrou range in the south. As a form of defence, the Berbers built many kasbahs in the vicinity of gorges. The natural beauty of the area and the sight of so many of these kasbahs make this a stunning part of the country to travel through.
Day 6
Ait Benhaddou - We set off after breakfast to experience these Kasbahs and return to the movies. Aït Benhaddou is a ‘fortified city', situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. As you arrive you will find it placed on a hill alongside the Ouarzazate River. Its claim to fame is some beautiful examples of Kasbahs, some of which remain inhabited. Granted UNESCO World Heritage listing, the site had been the setting for many films including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. We will have a guided tour in the afternoon before taking in a breathtaking sunset.
Day 7
Marrakech - You’ll have some free time again this morning in Ait Benhaddou, before embarking on an incredible journey across the Atlas mountains. Arriving late afternoon in Marrakech, you will have chance to freshen up, before heading into the vibrant Djemâa-el-Fna square for dinner. Get your senses at the ready!
Day 8
Marrakech - This morning we enjoy a city tour, followed by some free time to explore for yourself. Marrakech conjures up images of an exotic, distant city, of magic carpets, snake charmers and frankincense and myrrh brought in by camel trains. You will still find examples of most of these with the rose-coloured walls of the medina. Spend time getting lost in a tangle of winding streets that open onto verdant gardens and dark alleyways that lead to bustling souks. The focal point of the city is the central square, the Djemâa-el-Fna, an extraordinary gathering and market place. Full of colour, spicy aromas and traders, it is overflowing with life. Enjoy sundowners at one of the roof top cafes as you watch the transition from day to night. Towering over the square is the Koutoubia mosque, the tallest building in the city, and a reminder of the importance of Islam to the lives of the city's residents. Once you have finished exploring why not relax by the pool, or try a traditional hammam, (a steam bath followed by an exfoliating massage) - it’s the ideal end to the day.
Day 9
Essaouira- Today we head to Essaouira on the Atlantic Coast. We pass some stunning scenery before arriving at a colourful fishing town situated within 15th century Portuguese fortifications. With fantastic beaches and great surf you will have enough free time to go surfing, wind surfing or kayaking or just relax on the beach or alternatively explore the UNESCO-listed medina with its various souks and woodcarving workshops. The beach is in front of the Medina and there are cafés with terraces where you can relax while drinking mint tea and watch Moroccan life go by. There is also optional horse trekking, quad biking available.
Day 10
Essaouira - Enjoy the beach and our optional activities.
Day 11
Marrakech - We head back to Marrakech mid-morning, before heading to the famous Djemma el Fna square for a group meal in the evening.
Day 12
Marrakech - Your tour ends after breakfast. Check out is at 12 noon.
