Now’s the time to explore Morocco on your terms with this tour that’s affordable for young travellers. Fall in love with the desert life and Moroccan culture on this 11-day tour through the country. Guided by your trusty CEO (Chief Experience Officer), you’ll visit incredible sites like the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, spend the night in unique accommodations like a traditional mountain gîte, and hit the coast with surf lessons of the beaches of Taghazout.
Required Age: 18 – 35 Years | Group Size: 10 – 14 Pax | Nos of Days: 11 days
Trip Starts Date/Location: 4th Nov 2023 | Marrakech, Morocco
Trip Ends Date/Location: 14th Nov 2023 | Marrakech, Morocco
Meals Included: 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners
Transport: Private Van/Bus
Accommodation: Hotels (7N), Mountain Gîtes (1N), Surf House (2N)
Highlights: Stay overnight between cliff walls of Todra Gorge, Venture on a camel ride through sand dunes, Explore the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, Hike around the magnificent High Atlas Mountain, Go surfing in Taghazout, Wander around the coastal city of Essaouira
The Morocco Deserts & Beaches Experience – USD 962 + 5% GST per adult
PS: This Experience is completely managed and operated by G Adventures, Toronto and based on our association you can avail of this special discounted pricing IF booked via iTravel
Marrakech (Meals Incl. NA) (O/n Hotel Residence Amalou or similar)
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: 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.
Optional Activities: NA
Marrakech/Todra Gorge (Meals Incl. B) (O/n Hotel Auberge Royal Palmas)
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.
Private Vehicle Marrakech – Todra Gorge (7 – 8 Hrs): Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tinghir Orientation Walk: Join your CEO for a walk through the town and gain an insight into local life. Meander through the palm groves and past canals.
Optional Activities: NA
Todra Gorge/Merzouga (Meals Incl. B, D) (O/n Auberge Les Dunes or similar)
Set out 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.
Private Vehicle Todra Gorge – Merzouga (3.5 Hrs): 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.
Optional Activities: NA
Merzouga/Aït Ben Haddou (Meals Incl. B) (O/n Hotel Auberge La Baraka) or similar)
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. Opt to spend the morning further exploring the undulating golden sand of the dunes, and discovering the surrounding communities on a 4×4 excursion. You can pre-book this optional excursion when booking your tour.
Private Vehicle Merzouga – Aït Ben Haddou (6 Hrs): Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah Tour (2 – 3 Hrs): Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site and kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou. Of all the remaining kasbahs in Morocco, the walls and interior of this area are the most intact. 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.
Optional Activities
Tagine Cooking Demonstration, Aït Ben Haddou (120 MAD): 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.
Merzouga 4×4 Desert Excursion (3 – 4 Hrs) (700 MAD): View the golden dunes of the Sahara desert on a 4×4 excursion. You’ll be driven around the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, 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
Aït Ben Haddou/Aroumd (Aremd) (Meals Incl. B, D) (O/n Auberge Tafraout or similar)
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 – Imlil (4.5 Hrs/225 kms): Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hiking (Imlil – Aroumd (Aremd) (1 Hr): 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.
Optional Activities: NA
Aroumd (Aremd)/Marrakech (Meals Incl. B) (O/n Hotel Residence Amalou or similar)
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 maze like 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.
Hiking (Aroumd (Aremd) – Imlil) (1 Hr): Lace up your hiking boots and get to the next stop under your own power.
Private Vehicle Aroumd (Aremd) – Marrakech (2 Hrs/70 kms): Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities
Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit, Marrakech (1 – 3 Hrs): Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddler’s 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.
Musée de Marrakech (50 MAD): Wander around the salons of the ornate Mnebhi Palace displaying various collections of Moroccan art forms.
El Badi Palace (70 MAD): 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.
Jardins Majorelle, Marrakech (1 – 2 Hrs) (70 – 100 MAD): 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.)
Dar Si Said, Marrakech (30 MAD): 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.
Marrakech Hammam Visit (400 MAD): 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.
Marrakech (Meals Incl. B) (O/n Hotel Residence Amalou or similar)
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!
Optional Activities
Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit, Marrakech (1 – 3 Hrs): Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddler’s 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.
Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos (Optional): You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.
Marrakech (Meals Incl. B, D) (O/n Dar Surf Lodge or similar)
This afternoon 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. Opt to get up early and catch the sunrise over Marrakech by pre-booking the Hot Air Balloon excursion.
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.
Optional Activities
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.
Hot Air Balloon Marrakech: Get an early start and watch the sunrise over the red dust, palm groves, and majestic open landscapes of Marrakech from a hot air balloon. After soaking up the sights, refuel with an authentic Berber breakfast in a Moroccan tent.
Taghazout (Meals Incl. B, L, D) (O/n Hotel Residence Amalou or similar)
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 paddle-boarding. 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!
Optional Activities
Yoga, Taghazout: Learn various stretches, postures, and breathing exercises during a yoga class on the coast.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding: Grab a board and a paddle and start exploring!
Taghazout/Essaouira (Meals Incl. B) (O/n Hotel Cap Sim or similar)
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: 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.
Optional Activities
Windsurfing, Essaouira (60 EUR): Ride the waves at this windsurfer’s paradise. Try taking a lesson if you’re new to the sport. The reliable strong winds can be challenging.
Shopping, Essaouira (1 – 2 Hrs): 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: 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.
Kite Surfing (Group Lesson) (1100-1650 MAD): Join a 2-hour group lesson to get a grip on this sport, then take hold of the winds on your own.
Essaouira/Marrakech (Meals Incl. B) (O/n Hotel Cap Sim or similar)
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 – Marrakech (3 Hrs/190 kms): Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
