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| Morocco: | Marrakech, High Atlas Mountains and Essaouira |
| Duration: | 7 nights, 8 days |
| Pricing: | Starting at $2,330 per person based on two travelers |
 Download itinerary as PDF file |
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Trip Summary
This special trip to Morocco features three of the country's most scenic destinations all within close proximity of one another. Begin in the vibrant city of Marrakech with a privately-guided multi-day tour through the medina's colorful labyrinthine streets and the city's busy aroma-filled souks. Get an insiders look at sites like the frenetic Djemaa el Fnaa, the greatest square in all of Africa, full with entertainment for Moroccans and foreigners alike -- such as storytellers, healers, snake charmers, acrobats and countless food stalls. After Marrakech, head to the spectacular High Atlas Mountains for spectacular views of the surrounding mountainous landscapes. Enjoy guided hikes through the High Atlas Mountains. Next, relax in the seaside town of Essaouira and discover the spectacular blue and white medina and unique peaceful ocean-side ambiance.
Itinerary:
Day 1:
Arrive in Marrakech where you’ll be welcomed by your guide and escorted to your hotel. You’ll check into La Maison Arabe, an exquisite boutique hotel in the heart of the ancient medina. Once you get settled, you will begin your walking tour of Marrakech which includes visits to Marrakech’s defining landmarks like the 12th century tiled minaret of the Koutoubia mosque and the opulent Saadien Tombs. In the early evening, you’ll head to Marrakech’s most impressive square – the Djemaa el Fnaa.
Overnight: Marrakech
Day 2:
Continue your walking tour, visit the medieval Medersa ben Youssef (koranic university), the Musee de Marrakech (housed in the sumptuous, 19th century Mnebhi Palace), and the Dar Bellarj cultural foundation. You’ll have an opportunity to stop for tea or orange juice at the beautifully restored Dar Cherifa, which houses a cultural foundation, bookstore and art gallery. You’ll explore the colorful souks (marketplaces) where full with vendors of spices, carpets, jewelry, enamel, copper, brass, cedar and more. If you’d like, tonight we will make dinner reservations at Le Tobsil, the gourmet choice in Marrakech, owned by French chef Christine Rio.
Overnight: Marrakech
Day 3:
This morning you will be escorted south from Marrakech along a hairpin road which leads to the High Atlas Mountains where earthen Berber villages lay terraced into the mountainside. When you arrive in the village of Imlil, you will take a ten minute walk up to your hotel, the Kasbah du Toubkal. Mules will be available if you prefer to ride! Built as a summer palace for the Pasha El Glaoui, the Kasbah is situated on a hilltop with commanding views of the surrounding valley. You’ll have time at leisure to explore the vast array of hiking trails nearby. If you choose, you can enjoy a session in the hammam (steam baths) after a day of walking.
Overnight: High Atlas Mountains
Day 4:
Today you will enjoy a half-day guided hike with picnic lunch. You’ll explore the stunning landscape of these ancient footpaths while passing through Berber villages.
Overnight: High Atlas Mountains
Day 5:
This morning you will be escorted west to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Essaouira, a former Portuguese colony situated along the Atlantic Ocean. You will check in at Dar L’Oussia, a small hotel housed in a historic riad within the medina. Dar L’Oussia has a lovely rooftop terrace overlooking the old city and the port of Essaouira. You’ll have the remainder of the day at leisure to wander about the enchanting streets and alleys of Essaouira’s blue and white medina.
Overnight: Essaouira
Day 6:
You will have the day at leisure in Essaouira. You may wish to enjoy a lunch of freshly caught seafood at one of the stands by the bustling port or one of the many restaurants overlooking the busy Place Moulay Hassan.
Overnight: Essaouira
Day 7:
This morning you will be escorted back to Marrakech. In the afternoon, enjoy a farewell walking tour of the medina. Wander through the Dar Si Said Museum of traditional crafts housed in a 19th century palace; visit the nearby Maison Tiskiwin, a private collection, only recently opened to the public, of indigenous crafts started by a Swiss collector.
Overnight: Marrakech
Day 8:
You will be escorted to nearby Marrakech airport for your departing flight.
Bon Voyage!
What’s included:
- Accommodations
- Breakfast Daily
- Personalized, private touring as noted
- Transportation as noted
- All admissions on private touring
- Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
Not included:
- Air arrangements
- Sightseeing/admissions when not with an expert guide
- Meals other than breakfast, unless specified
- Transport unless listed above
- Gratuities
- Anything not noted as included
Accommodations, length of stay, guiding and route can all be modified to suit your needs and interest.
*Arrangements subject to availability
Download itinerary as PDF file
