South Morocco Discovery Tour

From the colourful, chaotic Marrakech medinas to the moody Sahara desert landscape, Morocco is a land filled with wonder and rich culture. Stay in traditional accommodation and explore villages off the beaten track.

Day 1: Marrakech

Welcome to Marrakech, Morocco. Marrakech is a feast for the senses. Be enticed by the alluring scents and brilliant colours of the spice markets, the sounds of the musicians, the rich folds of carpets, delectable foods, acrobats and perfumed gardens. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at the airport.  we begin unearthing the secrets of Marrakech, starting in the medina, the old walled section of town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll marvel at the city’s architectural jewels, including the soaring Koutoubia minaret. We’ll then continue to the Bahia Palace, an exemplary specimen of privileged life in the 19th century. Then we visit Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech’s main square and Majorelle Garden. Overnight stay in Marrakech

Day 2: Ouarzazate & Kasbahs

This morning journey along mountain roads and over Morocco’s highest pass, Tizi n’Tichka (2,260 metres), to Ait Benhaddou on the edges of the Sahara (approximately 6 hours). Perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century, Ait Benhaddou is one of Morocco’s most iconic site. It was once an important stop for caravans passing through as they carried salt across the Sahara, returning with gold, ivory and slaves. Today its grand kasbah has been listed as a World Heritage site, with its fortified village being a fine example of clay architecture. If you think you recognise the place, you probably do, as the town has a long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Enjoy a walk through the winding streets of old town, making your way to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy the views across the surrounding plains. Overnight stay in Ouarzazate.

Day 3: Sahara Camp

Join a local guide to uncover the underground Kasbah and its unique ceramic pottery industry. Leave Tamegroute behind and carry on driving to the end of the road at the frontier town of M’Hamid. From here, take a short camel ride through the dunes, The group will reach the massive Erg Chigaga dunes in the late afternoon which is one of the world’s iconic landscapes, with towering dunes up to 150 metres in height. Overnight Stay in a private Tent.

Day 4: Taroudant

Today rejoin the minivan and venture towards the market town of Taroudant. On the journey you’ll drive through the fertile Souss Valley, passing banana and citrus fruit plantations. Admire the 11th century ramparts and the five monumental gates of Taroudant. Then head into the hustle and bustle of Taroudant’s myriad streets, and explore the busy square of Place Assarag in the heart of the city. Enjoy a the tour of the souks where traditional crafts are on display featuring silver jewelry, leather, engraved limestone, saffron, spices, and Argan oil. You’ll have free time to wander around and explore the area. Overnight stay in Taroudant.

Day 5: Agadir

After Breakfast, we head to the city of Agadir, one of the most popular attractions in Morocco. Stroll around the bustling port where local fishermen sell their catch. Learn about its history with a visit to the souks of antique Berber jewellery, pottery, carpets, woodwork and other artefacts. Be sure to visit the Swiss quarter, the shopping area, the carpet factory and the artisan quarter, where you can watch lace making, embroidery, and leatherwork and woodwork demonstrations. Experience the essence of Morocco on your tour of the attractions in Agadir. Overnight stay in Agadir.

Day 6: Essaouira

In the morning, we continue with our tour and drive towards Essaouira and head west to the coastal town of Essaouira. Its charm is undeniable within the stone ramparts you’ll find whitewashed houses with bright blue shutters, art galleries and wood workshops. This laidback artists’ town is a former Portuguese trading colony and was once home to sizeable British and Jewish populations. The town faces a group of rocky islands, called the Mogador, and is surrounded by an expanse of sandy beaches and dunes. It’s still a busy fishing port and its pretty harbour is filled with tiny colourful boats which go out early every morning for the day’s catch. In the evening perhaps have some dinner with the group, as the local seafood is as fresh as it gets. Overnight stay at Essaouira

Day 7: Marrakech

Use the morning to see the last of Essaouira, then we will drive you back to Marrakech in the afternoon (approximately 3 hours). Your day is free today to explore Marrakech further, and perhaps do some final souvenir shopping and sightseeing before we transfer you to Marrakech airport for your departure flight.

START

• Marrakech

FINISH

• Marrakech

INCLUSIONS

• 4* Hotel Accommodation on Bed & Breakfast Basis
• Sahara Desert Private Tent on HB basis (Dinner & Breakfast)
• Professional Local Guides
• Transportation in a comfortable A/C Minibus
• Guaranteed departure

EXCLUSIONS

• Monuments Entrance fee
• Lunch and Dinner