HIGH ATLAS ADVENTURER FAMILY HOLIDAY

Itinerary

• Flight Inclusive itinerary
• Land Only itinerary

Day 1

Fly to Marrakech.

Day 2

Marrakech to Terre d'Amanar. In the morning we have a one-hour transfer by minibus to the outdoor adventure centre of Terre d'Amanar which is in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and our base for the next two nights. Soon after our arrival, we shall be shown round the exercise course which we are free to use at any time during our stay. After lunch, there will be the opportunity to try a range of high-flying activities like the zip-wire, monkey bridge and suspended bridge (helmets and harnesses are provided and are regulated to EU standards, as are the professionally-trained team of staff). Other activities nearer to the ground range from petanque and henna tattooing to archery, swimming and cycling. We shall be staying in comfortable Bedouin-style tents on a plateau above Marrakech, with a stunning backdrop of panoramic mountain scenery. We have dinner in a large and beautiful communal tent and during the cooler months, a large bonfire is lit afterwards.

Day 3

Mountain walk. Today we head off into the magnificent landscape of the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains for a trek of about 5 hours. On trek, we shall visit a village house and perhaps be invited to try out a cup of 'Berber whisky' (mint tea). After a picnic lunch, we continue our walk, returning to camp in time try out more of the activities on offer, or simply to relax by the pool. Before dinner, why not try a Hammam steam bath instead of a shower? Then after dinner, check out the night sky and look out for shooting stars

Day 4

To Essaouira. We say goodbye to the mountains and head back towards Marrakech, stopping off en-route for a brief visit to the Terre des Jeunes project. We continue our journey to the Atlantic coast town of Essaouira, stopping off for a spot of lunch (in total it is a 4-hour drive). On the way, look out for goats in the Argan trees eating the nuts and leaves! Essaouira is a pretty old Portuguese fishing port with a picturesque harbour and a very long beach. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore this charming old town. The settlement dates back to the fifteenth century, but the present town was constructed around 1760 by Sidi Mohammed ben Abdullah, who needed a base from which to suppress a revolt from Agadir. Today, the town is extremely relaxed and its whitewashed houses with painted shutters, artisan's workshops, boatyards and fishermen provide a marked contrast to the bustle of Marrakech. There is time for shopping or just to wander along the sandy beach. There are many pleasant cafes and some outstanding seafood restaurants to choose from for your evening meal

Day 5

Free time in Essaouira. Today we have a full day at leisure in Essaouira and there is no shortage of things to do. Check out the ramparts overlooking the Ocean, bargain for souvenirs in the medina or pick out a freshly-caught fish to be barbecued for you at a seafood stall. The pretty harbour is worth a visit, as is the beach which stretches for miles. There's normally a game of football taking place, so why not join in? Windsurfing and kite surfing are usually available, as well as the opportunity to ride a horse or a camel! Then in the evening, check out another of the many restaurants; good pizza is available if you fancy a change from seafood.

Day 6

Essaouira to Marrakech. This morning, we return to Marrakech and the afternoon is free for you to start your exploration of this historic Berber trading city. Don't miss an evening visit to the Djemma el Fna, the open-air central square around which Marrakech revolves. The name literally means 'place of death' as it was the place where the Sultans used to display the heads of their enemies. Now, with the foodstalls, snake charmers, water-sellers, travelling musicians and acrobats, the square is a place of entertainment for both Moroccan and overseas visitors.

Day 7

Marrakech guided tour. Our morning is spent on a guided tour (on foot) of Marrakech. The town is a maze of bustling bazaars, palaces and mosques. The afternoon is free for your own exploration; maybe a short Calèche (horse drawn carriage) ride, potter around the souks bartering for souvenirs or a refreshing dip in the hotel pool or perhaps a hammam. You could visit the peaceful Majorelle Gardens which is decorated throughout in Indigo Blue and houses a small museum of Islamic Art in the grounds

Day 8

Fly to London.