Morocco is filled with historical and cultural treasures, from the lively streets of Fez to the imposing High Atlas Mountains. Known as the ‘pink city’ owing to the pink hues of the medina walls, Marrakesh is one of the highlights of Morocco. Take in one of the mesmerising sunsets and explore the frenetic Jemaa el-Fna brimming with street food stalls and colourful performers. History buffs will be in their element at Volubili, a former Roman town and UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the best-kept ruins in Morocco. Fez is an intriguing city, home to an abundance of mosques and madrasas (theological colleges) and one of the largest medinas in the world.
Our tours of Morocco are filled with a range of exciting activities, including camel trekking over the Sahara sand dunes, trips to traditional Berber villages and walking in the High Atlas Mountains. Sample the mouthwatering Moroccan food and enjoy an authentic Hammam experience. Wander through the streets of Essaouira to see the pretty whitewashed houses and visit the world-famous kasbahs. It’s also worth taking an optional tour to Toundout Valley, where you’ll hike through Imi-noulawen valley to Amazigh village and delve into the local culture.
The heritage of Morocco is a melting pot of cultural influences and is characterised by the diverse people, customs and religions of mostly Berbers and Arabs. There are several etiquettes you should consider on your tour, such as wearing modest clothing that covers your legs and arms. The main religion in Morocco is Islam which is deeply rooted in the culture and customs. The cuisine is hearty and vibrant, fusing ingredients like spices, lamb, chicken and vegetables. Tagine, a delicious stew, is one of the most popular dishes and is usually served with warm bread. Mint tea is one of the most common drinks and the tradition is to pour it from a height to create a sea of bubbles.
There’s so much to see and experience in Morocco, that we recommend spending at least 8 days here. This will allow you plenty of time to explore the vast desert landscapes, experience local culture and visit the main sights. Our guided group tours are packed with immersive experiences and tours of places such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes and Fez.
Depending on which of our tours you choose, you can expect a range of accommodations, from kasbah-style hotels and traditional desert camps with comfortable tents to luxury desert lodges. Traditional riads provide an authentic experience and can be found in the medina or old part of the city, however, don’t expect any luxuries here as they don’t feature modern facilities.
The best time to embark on a Sahara Desert adventure is during the cooler autumn (September to November) and spring months (March to May). During these months there are clear blue skies and comfortable daytime temperatures, and the night skies are perfect for stargazing by the campfire. It’s best to avoid the scorching heat of summer so you can fully enjoy activities such as camel rides, exploring sand dunes and immersing yourself in the rich culture of the desert.
To make the most of your desert experience, it’s essential to pack light layers of clothing, comfortable shoes, suncream, a hat and plenty of water. Since the desert climate can be quite dry, staying hydrated is vital. Other essentials to pack include:
1. Lightweight, breathable clothing. Opt for loose-fitting clothes to stay cool
2. Sunglasses to shield your eyes from the intense sunlight
3. Hat or scarf for covering your head to avoid heatstroke
4. Portable charger to keep your devices powered for those Insta-worthy moments.
