Morocco: Sahara & Beyond
Overview
Highlights
- Visit a women's co-op and enjoy a local lunch
- Watch storytellers and acrobats at djemaa el fna square
- Learn about moroccan cuisine with a cooking class in a traditional amazigh house
- Traverse the sahara desert by 4x4
- Try to mimic a local expert's elegant sweeps in an islamic calligraphy class
What's this trip about?
Details
Travel Themes
Destinations
Attractions
Activities
Trip includes
- Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Islamic Calligraphy Class
- FèsYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Moroccan Foodie Experience
- MarrakechYour G for Good Moment: Mhaya Village Community Lunch
- MeknèsYour Foodie Moment: Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit
- Marrakech
- Arrival transfer
- Guided city tour of Meknès
- Guided tour of Volubilis
- Guided walking tour of the Fès medina including artisans' quarters and Fès tannery
- Guided night walk of Djemaa el Fna square
- Marrakech medina walk and spice shop visit
- Marrakech tour including souks
- Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs
- Visit the ancient kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou
- Sahara excursion by 4x4 including a visit to the town of Tamegroute
- Overnight in a comfortable
- traditional desert camp with dinner under the stars and sunset desert walk
- Explore the Draa region and orientation tour of Zagora
- Taroudant market visit
- Aït Mansour Gorge excursion
- Visit to Tafraoute
- Explore Essaouira
- Visit Menara Gardens and the Jardin Majorelle
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Itinerary
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Please note that this tour does not spend any time in Casablanca. You may wish to come a day early in order to explore Casablanca, and take some time to see its medina, beachfront, and classic examples of Art Dec...
Set out on a guided tour of two UNESCO World Heritage sites. venture to Volubilis and discover the soaring columns and remarkably well-preserved mosaic floors of this ancient Roman outpost. Then, visit the remains of the medieval city of Meknès, which served as Morocc...
Step back in time on a walking tour of the medina of Fez, a spellbinding World Heritage site dating back to the 9th century. Skirt past donkey carts as you take in the dazzling sights, from colourful mounds of spices to vividly painted ceramics, and observe Fez’s famo...
This morning, travel to Marrakech, a melting pot of Amazigh, West African, Mediterranenan, and Arab influences. Immerse yourself in the colour and chaos of Djemaa el-Fna, the city’s main square, where storytellers and magicians captivate passersby and vendors of all k...
Set out in the maze of tiny streets and alleyways and view the Koutoubia Minaret; then head to a spice shop to discover an array of Moroccan spices. After, visit a converted riad or traditional house for a hands-on cooking class, learning how to prepare a delicious ta...
Drive to Aït Ben Haddou, an ancient mudbrick settlement and UNESCO World Heritage site located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Explore this fascinating ksar, or fortified village, and compare the vistas of the city with scenes from the Game of Thrones series, Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator—parts of which were filmed here.
Travel through the Draa Valley towards the Sahara. Venture into the desert on 4x4s, making your way to the great dunes of Erg Chigaga. Settle into our comfortable desert camp and set off on a desert walk. Climb to the top of the dunes to catch an unforgettable sunset ...
After breakfast, head out from the desert and pause at the small town of Tamegroute to visit a library of ancient Islamic texts. Then drive to the oasis town of Zagora, where a colourful regional market is held twice a week. Enjoy a talk on the history of the Draa reg...
Head off the beaten path towards the Anti-Atlas or Lesser Atlas mountains. Stop at the town of Taliouine, a thriving centre for harvesting saffron—the world’s most expensive spice—and continue to our stunning riad in Taroudant.
Concealed within striking red walls and framed by snow-dusted peaks, the market town of Taroudant is often called “Little Marrakech.” Wander through the old town at leisure and browse its lively shops. Spend the afternoon at our riad, exploring its flower-laden paths or enjoying a book by the pool.
Venture deeper into the Anti-Atlas region, known for its spectacular natural rock formations and stark, lunar landscapes. Visit Aït Mansour Gorge, a stunning valley of pink-hued cliffs that harbour lush palm groves. Take a walk through the valley in the shade of tower...
Travel to the beautiful port town of Essaouira on the Atlantic coast. Stroll the windy beaches, soak in the leisurely atmosphere of the medina, and watch the hustle and bustle of fishermen at the port. Opt to check out the city’s happening live music scene.
Essaouira is also famous for its music scene and offers a great chance to check out a live performance.
Enjoy a day of leisure in this charming coastal city, where Jimi Hendrix, Cat Stevens, and Frank Zappa all famously travelled for inspiration. Walk along the 18th-century ramparts overlooking the Atlantic, and buy fresh fish from the market, which we’ll take to a loca...
Return to Marrakech and visit the ornate 12th-century Menara Gardens and the Majorelle Gardens, once owned by legendary French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Opt to view the beautiful collection of Amazigh artifacts at the Berber Museum, or visit the nearby Yves...
Depart at any time.
Want a tailor-made trip instead?
Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:
- You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
- Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Dates & Availability
Check Current Availability, prices, specials with G Adventures.
The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.
Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.
G Adventures Reviews & Ratings
The only exception to the excellent tour was the abysmal experience of lunch at the Hotel Jnane Ain Asserdoune
The only exception to the excellent tour was the abysmal experience of lunch at the Hotel Jnane Ain Asserdoune. The service was totally mediocre while the food was t...
Good broad spectrum of Morocco culture and life styles
Good broad spectrum of Morocco culture and life styles... explained throughout the trip. GAdventures handled everything making this trip comfortable and easy... book...
I was very happy with the whole trip
I was very happy with the whole trip. Woudlhigly recommend it to anyone and every...
Absolutely phenominal, it was the trip of a lifetime
Absolutely phenominal, it was the trip of a lifetime.
FANTASTIC
FANTASTIC. If this is the same quality of service and dedication we can get from other tours, I would be a G Adventures customer for life. (And I'm only 40, so I've ...
Other G Adventures Reviews
One of the Best Trips Taken to Europe!
We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimat...
Great itinerary filled with variety of experiences & wonderful guide
Trip exceeded my expectations - not only did we have an excellent guide who was very personable, fun, and put extra attention to everyone's needs, but the country an...
I had the experience of a lifetime - the combination of the amazing country, our amazing tour guide and an amazing group made this the best trip imaginable.
I had the experience of a lifetime - the combination of the amazing country, o...
Tour Operator
G Adventures is an adventure travel pioneer offering the planet's most awe-inspiring selection of affordable small-group tours, safaris and expeditions. Our award-winning trips embrace authentic accommodation, exotic cuisine and local transport to put travellers on a first-name basis with the planet’s people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife.
Adventure travel is more than a vacation. It’s a chance to get to know your world better by putting yourself on a first-name basis with the people, places, and things that make it worth exploring. This is your planet. Come and get it.
All G Adventures tours share a common love of adventure, but life-altering experiences come in a variety of flavors. Here are some of the Travel Styles we offer:
"Comfort": “Adventure travel” doesn’t have to mean “roughing it.” Comfort tours offer the genuine experiences you want with more extras, frills, and upgrades.
"Classic": An unbeatable mix of uncommon experiences, insider access, cultural contact, and all the must-sees and -dos, Classic is adventure perfected.
"Active": Why just see the world when you could bike, hike, kayak, and multi-sport it? Why, indeed. Active tours keep travellers who like to move on the move.
"Yolo": You’re only young once. Make the most of it with Yolo tours, fun-filled and fast-moving adventures designed just for travellers aged 18 to 39.
"Family": Just because you settled down and had kids doesn’t mean your adventuring days are through. Family makes our big planet small enough for all.
"Local Living": Want to get under the skin of some of the most gorgeous and out-there places? Local Living tours grant access that even locals don't have.
"Private Groups": Got a group of eight or more and want to keep the fun to yourselves? Try a Private Group tour. You pick the who and where, we’ll handle the what.
No matter what kind of traveller you are, we’ve got a tour (or a dozen) that’ll fit you just right.
- 100% Guaranteed Departures
- Lifetime Deposits
- 24/7 Service
- Awards include one of National Geographic Traveler's Tours of a Lifetime and one of National Geographic Adventure's "Best Adventure Tour Outfitters." Several times named Canada's Favorite Adventure Tour Operator.
To speak with G Adventure Travel Specialist call 1-855-667-9514
About Travelstride
Find your perfect trip
Save time
Save money
Travel confidently
Logistics
Accommodation
Transportation & Flights
Transportation & flights
Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE: Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. ITINERARY PACE This is a very fast paced itinerary which covers lots of ground. While this is great as it allows us to see a huge amount in the available time, it also means some early starts, some long drives in the mini van and less free time than many other G Adventures. We feel that if you enter this trip with this knowledge and expectation, you will appreciate even more the variety of locations we are able to include in this itinerary. TRANSPORT The legroom in the minivan is possibly smaller than you may be used to and taller passengers may find space a little cramped. It is important to be aware that as it is not a legal requirement in buses in Morocco, your vehicle may not be equipped with seat belts. WEATHER Please note that the climate in Morocco can be both very hot during the day in summer months (up to 50°C) and cold at night in the mountains in autumn, early spring and winter (down to -6°C). Summer months, from April to September are very hot throughout Morocco. Winter months November to March can be cool to cold, especially in the Atlas Mountains, with high probability of snowfall. Most Moroccan buildings are not equipped with heating, so without proper layers you will be cold at night. Please bring appropriate clothing for the months in which you are travelling and check temperatures before you leave. Bedding is provided in the desert camp and the gîte, but in winter months if you feel the cold you may wish to bring a sleeping bag too. RAMADAN According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall between Mar 11th - Apr 8th 2024, and Mar 1st - Mar 29th 2025. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time. AID AL-ADHA During your visit to this country, we would like to inform you about an important celebration called Aid Al-Adha. This holiday may impact your travel experience, as most shops and restaurants are closed during the celebration. Some of the historical places we visit might also be closed during this time. There will be a shorter number of staff at the hotels and less crowded streets on the day of the celebration. Aid Al-Adha will fall between Jun. 16th-17th 2024, and Jun. 6th-7th 2025.
Meals
Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. Breakfasts Moroccan breakfasts tend to be different from your usual cereal and toast morning fare – most will be very simple - a croissant or sweet roll with jam and instant coffee and some hotels will have buffets where you will have more variety. While you are experiencing what a Moroccan family would eat, some travellers do find the provided breakfasts a bit “bread heavy” and enjoy buying fruit the day before to supplement their breakfast. Lunches and Dinners Moroccan cuisine is world famous and your CEO will be taking the chance to show you the best of it. Staples include cous cous, a type of grain topped with stew, tagine which is actually the name of the pot this tasty dish is cooked in, and brochette, bbq skewers of meat. These meals will generally cost between 45- 70 MAD depending on the type of restaurant and which part of the country you are in. Other tastes not to be missed include pastilla, a sweet pasty with a savoury filling which is traditionally pigeon and harira, a delicious soup based on chick peas and filling enough when teamed with fresh bread to be a whole lunch. If you are heading to the coast the fresh seafood cooked at one of the local markets is a must eat! Snacks Morocco's fresh orange juice is highly recommended and you should not leave without trying a glass. The brave can try the tiny snails which are perhaps the local's favourite snack but you might prefer a cone of piping hot bite-size fried cake donuts.
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Become a member
- Save up to $700 per person
- Access members-only specials
- Personalize trip recommendations