Morocco: Deserts & Beaches

11 days, Marrakech to Marrakech

Map of the route for Morocco: Deserts & Beaches
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Itinerary Notes

Please note that if you are travelling to Morocco between November and February, your tour will have a level of flexibility based off of winter weather conditions on roads in the mountains. Heavy snow is not uncommon, so plan on packing warmer clothing to suit conditions.

Itinerary

Day 1Marrakech

Arrive at any time.

Get ready to channel all of the buzz and excitement of arriving in a new place by heading out on the town with your CEO and crew. Take the fun to new heights as you grab drinks and kick back at a rooftop bar. Don’t get too distracted by the incredible views of Marrakech, though, that you forget to get to know your new travel companions and prepare for the thrilling journey ahead.

On arrival check the notice board (or ask reception) for the exact time and location of the group meeting. Afterwards, there will be the possibility to go out for a meal as a group in a nearby local restaurant. If you arrive late, no worries, your leader will leave you a message at the front desk.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends

Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.

Day 2Marrakech/Todra Gorge

Depart Marrakech and gaze out the window as the city gives way to rocky hills and terracotta villages. Disembark upon arrival in Tinghir and get in touch with Morocco's Mediterranean flora during a walk through palm groves. Then, fly to Mars. Just kidding. Head into Todra Gorge (might as well be Mars, though, with how other-worldly your surroundings will feel here). Fall asleep beneath sheer cliff walls to the sound of a gurgling river and the wind catching in the palm trees.

Tinghir Orientation Walk
Tinghir

Join your CEO for a walk through the town and gain an insight into local life. Meander through the palm groves and past canals.

Private Vehicle
Marrakech – Todra Gorge7h-8h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 3Todra Gorge/Merzouga

Journey into the vast, golden reaches of the desert. Mint tea and a warm welcome await you at your dune-side hotel. Saddle up and travel by camel to the perfect perch atop the dunes to view the sunset paint the sky hues of red, blue, and yellow. After, under a canopy of stars, enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment by the campfire. Let your imagination run wild as you listen to traditional music on the drums alongside stories about the region. We dare you to top this campfire experience.

Opt to spend time further exploring the undulating golden sand of the dunes, and discovering the surrounding communities on a land cruiser desert excursion. You can pre-book this optional excursion when booking your tour.

Private Vehicle
Todra Gorge – Merzouga3h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Camel Ride
Merzouga

Hold on and enjoy a ride on this even-toed ungulate, also known as the desert horse. Bring your camera for some fantastic photos of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Local guides will teach you how to mount and dismount and other handy camel-related safety tips.

1

Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow

Merzouga 4x4 Desert Excursion
Merzouga

View the golden dunes of the Sahara desert on a land cruiser excursion. You'll be driven around the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi in land cruiser cars, taking in the views of the seemingly endless sea of sand. Pass a kohl mine en route to the village of Khamlia. Witness the delightful sounds of the African music of Gnawa - played by members of the community - as you enjoy a cup of mint tea with the locals.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 4Merzouga/Aït Ben Haddou

We know you've officially fallen in love with desert life, but it's time to kiss your camel goodbye. Rise early for the sunrise, then travel along the Route of 1000 Kasbahs to Ait Ben Haddou, one of the most iconic and beautiful kasbahs and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Private Vehicle
Merzouga – Aït Ben Haddou6h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah Tour
Aït Ben Haddou2h-3h

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site and kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, the most famous ksar in the Ounila Valley, located in the foothills of the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains. Of all the remaining kasbahs in Morocco, the walls and interior of this area are the most intact. It's a collective grouping of dwellings inside defensive walls and was once one of the many trading posts on the route linking Sudan to Marrakech. The kasbah still houses a few families, but many now live in the adjacent village. Like many of the earthen built fortresses in Ouarzazate, Aït Ben Haddou has been used in many film and television productions like Gladiator, Babel, and Game of Thrones.

1

Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

Tagine Cooking Demonstration
Aït Ben Haddou
120MAD per person

Learn all about the quintessential Moroccan dish — tagine. Learn about the tagine itself (a clay pot) and different ingredients and spices. Enjoy the fruits of your labour for dinner.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 5Aït Ben Haddou/Aroumd (Aremd)

Ready to gain some elevation? Head into the magnificent High Atlas Mountains and cross the Tizi n'Tichka pass (at 2260 m) before heading into Toubkal National Park. Take to the winding roads like a pro and gaze out the windows as small villages wiz by. Upon arrival at the small village of Imlil, strap on your hiking shoes and embark on a 1 hour hike from Imlil to the quaint mountain village of Aroumd (Aremd). Bask in the jaw-dropping elements — the sweet mountain air and the proximity to the jagged mountain peaks. Cozy up in your mountain gîte after a homeade dinner of local produce in the salon.

Accommodation is multi-share, up to six beds in each room. Bedding is provided, but you will need to bring a sleeping bag for additional warmth if travelling between November and April. You will also need to bring your own towel. Bathroom facilities are shared.

Private Vehicle
Aït Ben Haddou – Imlil4h30m225km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Hiking
Imlil – Aroumd (Aremd)1h

While the hike to the gîte is uphill, it is achievable by anyone of average fitness. Take it at a slow pace!

Your Local Living Moment: Mountain Gîte Stay with Traditional Moroccan Meal

After a short hike uphill, arrive at a cozy mountain gîte where we will spend the night. Breath in fresh mountain air while taking in amazing views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains before sitting down to a traditional, homemade dinner made with local produce.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 6Aroumd (Aremd)/Marrakech

Begin the day by hiking back to Imlil and beginning your journey to the "Red City," Marrakech. Unlock the many secrets this ancient city has to offer in its mazelike alleys, ornate palaces, and lush gardens. When the heat of the day gets to you, relax at one of the many tea houses situated on the buzzing square (best people watching guaranteed). Opt to visit the stunning Musée de Marrakech, explore the ruins of El Badi Palace, or wander through Jardins Majorelle — a sprawling botanical garden developed over the span of forty years. End the day like a local with an optional group dinner in the famous food stalls of Djemaa el Fna.

Private Vehicle
Aroumd (Aremd) – Marrakech1h45m70km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Hiking
Aroumd (Aremd) – Imlil1h

Lace up your hiking boots and get to the next stop under your own power.

6

Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow

Marrakech Hammam Visit
Marrakech
500MAD per person

Visit a hammam, a great way to get squeaky clean and soothe sore muscles. Enjoy a body scrub and massage in a traditional Moroccan bathhouse. Begin with a dry or hot room to prepare your skin and body, followed by a hot steam room. Then enjoy a body scrub and massage followed by a traditional mint tea.

Jardins Majorelle
Marrakech1h-2h
200MAD per person

Visit this enchanting garden in the heart of the city designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle (1886-1962). Follow the pathways through trees, exotic plants, streams, and pools while watching the numerous birds who call this peaceful paradise home. (Please note that the entrance fee to Musée Yves Saint Laurent is an additional 30 MAD.)

Musée de Marrakech
Marrakech
50MAD per person

Wander around the salons of the ornate Mnebhi Palace displaying various collections of Moroccan art forms.

El Badi Palace
Marrakech
70MAD per person

Visit the ruins of what was once the most ornate palace of the 16th-century. Its sunken gardens and pools give a glimpse into its former glory.

Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit
Marrakech1h-3h
Free

Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines as the day progresses. When the sun sets, the square fills with dozens of food stalls, and is packed with locals, entertaining chefs, and waiters. Grab a spot on a bench with other diners and try the “tanjia” (slow cooked lamb), harira soup, grilled seafood, famous Moroccan couscous, tajine, snails, or even sheep’s head (for the truly adventurous). Wash it all down with some spiced tea.

Dar Si Said
Marrakech
30MAD per person

Standing as a monument to master Moroccan artisans, this complex houses the Museum of Moroccan arts. Here, you will find displays of ancient weaponry, carpets, Amazigh (also known as Berber) jewellery, granary doors and more. Make sure to see the highlight of a visit to this museum, the painted, domed wedding-reception chamber.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 7Marrakech

Take advantage of more free time in Marrakech to wander the Djeema el Fna square in the heart of the medina. Try to keep up with the ever-changing market as it switches up its offerings throughout the day. In the evening, welcome new friends to the group and join your CEO and fellow travellers for a night out on the town. Cheers to the next several days of making memories!

Your Big Night Out Moment:

Celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Your Discover Moment
Marrakech Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Marrakech, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like practice your barter skills with a local merchant, get lost in the medina, and explore the gardens of Jardin Majorelle. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

1

Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow

Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit
Marrakech1h-3h
Free

Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines as the day progresses. When the sun sets, the square fills with dozens of food stalls, and is packed with locals, entertaining chefs, and waiters. Grab a spot on a bench with other diners and try the “tanjia” (slow cooked lamb), harira soup, grilled seafood, famous Moroccan couscous, tajine, snails, or even sheep’s head (for the truly adventurous). Wash it all down with some spiced tea.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 8Marrakech/Taghazout

Today we make our way through the High Atlas Mountains and visit the market town of Taroudant. Concealed within striking red walls, Taroudant is often called “Little Marrakech.” Wander through the old town at leisure and browse its lively markets before continuing on to the fishing village of Taghazout.

Private Vehicle
Marrakech – Taroudant

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
Taroudant

Spend your free time exploring the sights and sounds of the markets of Taroudant.

Private Vehicle
Taroudant – Taghazout

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

1

Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow

Amazigh Villages Visit

Explore the picturesque villages of Aourir, Imouzzer and Izourki Oufella. Begin with a drive through the banana plantation village of Aouir. Visit the small town of Imouzzer, a small picturesque town with white houses, surrounded by almond, olive, and argan trees. See Izourki Oufella, known for producing a highly refined form of honey using thyme, orange blossom, and cactus.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 9Taghazout

Wake to the soft tones of waves crashing along the shoreline, then suit up for a surf lesson. Hit the waves for a free afternoon of surfing or swimming. Prefer land surfing? Opt to go hiking or do yoga. After a day of embracing your wild side, what could be more fitting than gathering around a bonfire on the beach as the sun kisses the horizon goodnight?

Surf Lesson
Taghazout

Never surfed before? No worries! Learn the basics from a qualified surf instructor and get ready to ride the waves!

Sunset Beach Bonfire
Taghazout

Beach sunsets are always epic. Beach sunsets by a bonfire are even better!

1

Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow

Yoga
Taghazout

Learn various stretches, postures, and breathing exercises during a yoga class on the coast.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 10Taghazout/Essaouira

Take coastal living northward to colourful, sun-drenched Essaouira. After an orientation walk around the city, enjoy free time to get to know the ramparts and rocky beaches of Essaouira further. No rest for the weary? Not true here — opt to pre-book the Traditional Hammam Experience and enjoy a spa experience that is ritual for the many of the locals.

Essaouira Orientation Walk
Essaouira

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time
Essaouira

Don't waste a minute — get going and explore this seaside city.

2

Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow

Shopping
Essaouira1h-2h

Pop into brightly coloured shops selling leather shoes and purses, slippers, scarves, Moroccan lanterns, and mosaics...you name it. Visit an artists' co-op and shop for handmade silver jewellery. Try not to get overwhelmed by choice – with dozens of shops lining the narrow winding streets, there's a lot to choose from.

Traditional Hammam Experience in Essaouira
Essaouira

Visit a hammam, a great way to get squeaky clean and soothe sore muscles. Enjoy a body scrub and massage in a traditional Moroccan bathhouse. Begin with a dry or hot room to prepare your skin and body, followed by a hot steam room. Enjoy a body scrub and massage followed by a traditional mint tea.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 11Essaouira/Marrakech

Hit the road one final time and return to Marrakech. Even though your trip ends on arrival, make sure you take the time to take plenty of photos with newfound friends to commemorate the memories made. (Morocco scrapbook, anyone?)

This tour will end upon arrival in Marrakech at approximately 12pm. We suggest booking any onward travel after 4pm.

Private Vehicle
Essaouira – Marrakech3h190km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Morocco: Deserts & Beaches

| 11 days - Marrakech to Marrakech - from $866 USD