Marrakech, Mountains & Coast of Morocco

Essential Information

Trip Profile

Travel by private minibus and on foot, (1½ relaxing daywalks), plus 4 days sightseeing in Marrakech and Essaouira.

Accommodation

5 nights in traditional Riads in Marrakech and Essaouira - all with en suite rooms.

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with a central open-air courtyard. They were Roman Villas modified to offer family privacy and shield from harsh weather. With all rooms opening into the atrium space, it creates a warm, family atmosphere and with no large windows on the exterior walls, the courtyards can feel like a real oasis from the chaotic souks outside. No trip to Morocco is complete without staying in these characterful dwellings.

The remaining 2 nights are spent in a lovingly restored mountain gite with traditional décor and views of snow-capped mountains. This hideaway is simple yet authentic, comfortable and welcomes visitors as part of the community. Local people help to run Douar Samra and they have a vegetable garden in order to use as much local produce as possible. Every bedroom is unique and different, (each sleeps 2-4 people with basic shared washing facilities) and there is a wonderful roof terrace overlooking the mountains. Our stay in Tamatert is simply a haven as the village is inaccessible by car so all we can enjoy is the overwhelming tranquillity of the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains.

Food

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners included.

Reality Check

This trip provides a gentle introduction to Morocco. The itinerary is quite relaxed, yet there are a couple of long drives (especially from the mountains to the coast), simlpy to be able to experience three distinctly different aspects of this wonderful country.

Although there is an organised itinerary most days, all activities are optional, so you can spend your time relaxing if you prefer. The mountain walks on this trip would be described as undemanding by anyone with experience of hill or mountain walking. Those less familiar with hiking need to understand that mountain paths are stony and uneven. Morocco generally enjoys a good year round climate (sun-soaked in the summer and reasonably warm in the winter).

Please note Ramadan runs from 9th July to 7th August in 2013. During Ramadan, our local guides and drivers choose to work and so we continue to run trips in this period. However, it does need to be recognised that the energy levels of our local staff may be a bit lower and that some restaurants may be closed during the day. Having said this, Ramadan is a unique time to visit a Muslim country - each evening the streets empty for an hour while everyone breaks their fast, and there's a feeling of festivity in the air every night.

Normal group size and age

Normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age 16.

Misc

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with a central open-air courtyard, usually filled with orange or lemon trees and sometimes a fountain. They were a modification of the Roman villa, designed to offer family privacy and to shield from the harsh Moroccan weather. Many dwellings have kept their inward focus, with no large windows on the exterior walls and all rooms opening into the atrium space, despite being converted into hotels and restaurants.

Icons explained

The vast majority of Exodus adventures are adult group holidays. Groups are always small in size. We strongly believe that this adherence to small groups means a better experience for all; more time with your guide, less waiting around and a reduced impact on the communities and environments visited.
Each group is generally made up of like-minded travellers - with singles, couples and friends all joining in together. All these trips are suitable for single travellers, but if you prefer to travel with clients booking individually, please see our Solo Departures page.

Designed for people who are in good health, enjoy the outdoors and want a relaxing trip packed with interest.

Relaxed Itinerary: A range of itineraries seeking out intriguing and off the-beaten-path destinations in a little extra comfort!

Culture: Let Exodus show you a different side to many of the world's greatest cultural attractions.

Where you stay is a crucial part of a holiday, and we have gone to great lengths to find accommodation that provides extra comfort, character, convenience and value. Five-star hotels won’t feature on the agenda, but itineraries guarantee a greater degree of comfort after your day’s efforts.