11 Days of Epic Adventuresexploring Marrakech, the Dades Gorges, the Merzouga desert, Ourzazate, Taghazoute and Essaouira.
11 Days of Epic Adventuresexploring Marrakech, the Dades Gorges, the Merzouga desert, Ourzazate, Taghazoute and Essaouira.
Experience a whole new world of travel! Switch up your European travel itinerary and take a detour to North Africa’s most vibrant country, Morocco. Beat your own path hiking the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and ride a camel! Journey to the Ourika valley to have tea with a local Berber family and relax with traditional Hamman baths at one of the local spas of Marrakech. Morocco will be an exciting worldly experience unlike anything you’ve ever encountered.
Please note: The trip meets at Marrakech Airport anytime on Thursday. Transportation to the Marrakech Airport is not included, so please plan your arrival accordingly.
A city of contrasts, Marrakech boasts a unique culture, deep history, special charm, and delicious cuisine. Touch down in the vibrant city of Marrakech, where we’ll pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your accommodation. Settle in and get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner. The adventure starts here!
*Please note, it is good to arrive as early as you can on Thursday, but we can accommodate late arrivals if needed. If you plan to arrive on Wednesday or depart on Monday, email [email protected] to arrange an additional night’s accommodation. For Wednesday arrivals, an airport transfer will also be included, but your Bus2alps guide will not join you until Thursday.
Get ready to explore the stunning Ourika Valley! We’ll head out for a full-day tour. Along the way we will stop for tea with a Berber family, a hike to a waterfall, enjoy a riverside lunch and stop for a camel ride.
We will return to Marrakech in the evening for an included group dinner in the Jamaa El Fna Square, as we can watch as the square comes alive at night with musicians, artists, and crowds of Moroccans.
Saturday morning join one of the optional activities: an ATV tour or a traditional Hammam Bath & Massage. For those who do not wish to participate in an activity, the morning is yours to explore the souks of Marrakech or linger over lunch in the main square.
In the afternoon we dive deep into the vibrant heart of Marrakech with a guided walking tour of the Medina. Explore winding alleys, bustling souks, and historic sites. We will visit a Berber herbalist, the spice markets, the Marrakech Museum, and a cooperative featuring Moroccan jewelry, clothing and furniture.
In the evening we will arrange an optional group dinner at a nearby restaurant. Otherwise, the night is yours to explore!
We hit the road for Dades Valley, crossing the stunning Atlas Mountains. Explore the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, Ouarzazate, the Valley of Roses, and arrive in Dades for a night under the stars.
Today’s journey takes us deeper into Morocco as we head to Merzouga. Along the way, we’ll explore Tinghir, Toudra Gorges, and Rissani. Cap off the day with a camel ride into the Sahara, where we’ll stay overnight in a luxury desert camp. Stargazing in the Sahara? Yes, please!
Wake up in the desert and choose between a jeep or camel ride back to Merzouga before we hit the road to Ouarzazate. This town, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” is surrounded by incredible landscapes and ancient Kasbahs.
We’ll head to the coast, driving through Taznakhet and Taliwine to reach the surf town of Taghazout. Spend the evening unwinding at the beach, taking in the relaxed coastal vibe.
Today is all about soaking up the sun! Enjoy a free day on the beach, or if you’re feeling adventurous, join an optional surf lesson and catch some waves. Chill, explore, and make the most of your time in this laid-back town.
We’ll make our way to the bohemian coastal town of Essaouira, known for its artsy vibe, windy beaches, and historic medina. Explore the town on a guided tour, then spend the afternoon wandering the colorful streets or relaxing by the sea.
We’ll drive back to Marrakech for one final night. This is your chance to explore more of the city, shop for souvenirs, or just soak in the last moments of your Moroccan adventure.
Time to say goodbye! We’ll arrange your transfer back to the airport, and you’ll head home with a camera roll full of memories and a heart full of epic experiences.
1/2 Day desert ATV Tour: The ATV tour is a half day activity riding through the rock desert palm groves on the outskirts of Marrakech. This is a great additional activity if you’re looking for adventure and some amazing scenery. (€55)
Traditional Hammam Experience: The hammam is a traditional Moroccan bath house. The experience includes a full body clay mask in the steam room, followed by an exfoliating scrub down. It’s wonderful to soften the skin and detox the body. The experience finishes with a full body relaxation massage with Moroccan argan oil. ( €35)
1/2 Day Surf Camp in Tagazoute: Taghazout, Morocco, is renowned for its exceptional waves, making a surf lesson a must-do activity. Experienced coaches provide top-notch instruction for all skill levels. You’ll be hooked on this thrilling sport with just one day of trying it.
Accommodation: While in Marrakech we stay in a traditional accommodation called a “Riad.” These beautiful buildings consist of rooms overlooking a central garden, usually with a fountain as the focus point. Rooms will be shared between 4-5 people.
Weather: The weather in Morocco tends to be warm during the day time but may cool down in the evenings. We recommend bringing a fleece or sweater to wear at night time. Although usually sunny, there are sometimes short rain showers during the months of November & December, so we recommend packing an umbrella and/or rain jacket.
Common Sense: Morocco is generally a very safe place to travel; Marrakech especially is welcoming to tourists. People following a few basic common sense travel rules should have no problem.
Keep your passport and money safe at all times. Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket. Travel in groups and don’t leave friends behind. Respect the local culture and they will respect you.
Shopping: Street vendors, sales people and hustlers can be very persistent. Bargaining is a part of daily life in Marrakech. If you are interested in something feel free to enter into the bargaining process, but never pay the first price and never feel obligated to pay more than you want to. If you do not want something politely say no thank you, hold up your hand and walk away. For those vendors who are particularly persistent, just ignore them and keep walking. Again, please note that you should ask permission before taking a close-up photo of a person or their shop in Morocco.
