Hey! I’m Jenn with two 'n's. I’m a writer and self-proclaimed travel-hacker who’s been budget traveling for the past 15 years. Ever since I saw Chichén Itzá and learned about the Mayan civilization as a kid, I knew I had to see all the ruins this world has to offer! I love eating my way through new cities, learning about the culture and history of each place I go, talking to locals about legends and lore, and trekking through the paths less taken to find ancient cities and beautiful vistas. I truly believe if we travel with the intention of learning, we can and will make this world a better place for all.
Duration
14 days · 13 nights
Travel Date
Sep 19 – Oct 2, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
8 - 16
Transportation
Car, bus, camel, ferry
Age range
21 – 40
Travel interest
Food, culture, sightseeing, history, nature, hiking, adventure
Fellow Travelers
Under Moroccan Sun was founded by Hassan El Amrani, a native Berber from the Sahara Desert of Morocco. Making both the United States and Morocco his home, Hassan has a clear understanding of what travelers expect. His company’s specialty is Morocco, which allows them to focus on the relationship they build with their travelers after helping them dive into the sights, scents, and secrets of this exotic kingdom. Over the years, Under Moroccan Sun Tours has passionately served travelers from all over the world and has grown to include professional, licensed, multilingual guides and drivers who will help you navigate the exotic kingdom of Morocco at your own pace. Their extensive experience and the unique cultural perspective of Moroccan natives will ensure that your voyage through Morocco will be safe, stimulating, and unforgettable.
A 14-day trip to Morocco will give you the adventure of a lifetime! One of the most diverse countries in Africa, you’ll take in its major city destinations including Marrakech, Taroudant and Tangier over the course of your journey. Here you’ll experience the country’s intricate architecture, traditional markets, mosques and vibrant atmosphere, with mint tea being served wherever your feet take you. You’ll find a completely different culture as you set off into the Atlas Mountains, with winding roads, hairpin bends, extraordinary colors and hilltop villages. Marvel at the clay buildings still found intact in these serene places and at the wonders of nature as you navigate the cliffs and canyons. Your adventure will also take in Morocco’s world-famous Sahara Desert, with its swathes of untouched sand dunes, incredible sunsets and skies brimming with stars. And that’s without mentioning the country’s beautiful beaches, clear blue water and vibrant musical nightlife! Come see Morocco and treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a credit towards a future trip. You will receive a credit equivalent to 100% of your trip payment to be used anytime within the next 2 years from the date the credit note is issued.
A full credit will also be issued if the tour is canceled due to COVID-19 travel restrictions (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Hey! I’m Jenn with two 'n's. I’m a writer and self-proclaimed travel-hacker who’s been budget traveling for the past 15 years. Ever since I saw Chichén Itzá and learned about the Mayan civilization as a kid, I knew I had to see all the ruins this world has to offer! I love eating my way through new cities, learning about the culture and history of each place I go, talking to locals about legends and lore, and trekking through the paths less taken to find ancient cities and beautiful vistas. I truly believe if we travel with the intention of learning, we can and will make this world a better place for all.
Duration
14 days · 13 nights
Travel Date
Sep 19 – Oct 2, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
8 - 16
Transportation
Car, bus, camel, ferry
A 14-day trip to Morocco will give you the adventure of a lifetime! One of the most diverse countries in Africa, you’ll take in its major city destinations including Marrakech, Taroudant and Tangier over the course of your journey. Here you’ll experience the country’s intricate architecture, traditional markets, mosques and vibrant atmosphere, with mint tea being served wherever your feet take you. You’ll find a completely different culture as you set off into the Atlas Mountains, with winding roads, hairpin bends, extraordinary colors and hilltop villages. Marvel at the clay buildings still found intact in these serene places and at the wonders of nature as you navigate the cliffs and canyons. Your adventure will also take in Morocco’s world-famous Sahara Desert, with its swathes of untouched sand dunes, incredible sunsets and skies brimming with stars. And that’s without mentioning the country’s beautiful beaches, clear blue water and vibrant musical nightlife! Come see Morocco and treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Welcome to Morocco and get set for the adventure of a lifetime! Your base for the next 14 days is home to spectacular architecture, ever-changing landscapes, mountain ranges and the famous Sahara — the world’s largest subtropical desert. Your expert local guide will meet you in Casablanca Airport, then whisk you away to see the impressive Hassan II Mosque, located by the Atlantic Ocean and a real taste of the sights to come. The journey continues along the Ain Diab coastline before a visit to Rick’s Cafe, a romantic restaurant inspired by the classic movie Casablanca. You’ll continue to Marrakech, and take in the Majorelle Botanical Gardens. Amid the chaos of the city, you’ll find a small oasis of beautiful serenity here, with the garden the result of forty years’ worth of plant collecting. Take the evening to catch your breath. Stroll the Jemaa el-Fna Square and discover the market, musicians, acrobats and magicians. Maybe now it’ll sink in that you’re in glorious Morocco and that an amazing trip awaits you!
After shaking off your travel head and enjoying a hearty breakfast, prepare to see Marrakech Medina, the city’s vibrant, historical old town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, Medina is home to market stalls, religious buildings and some of the country’s most impressive architecture. You’ll start at the dramatic 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s biggest landmark. Move on to see the stunning Bab Agnaw gate in the Kasbah District, then take in the 15th century Saadian Tombs. Meander the intricate alleyways leading to the el-Badi Palace and enter through the Mellah region, formerly the city’s Jewish Quarter. Finish a first day’s fabulous tour with a stroll around the bustling souks market, and be sure to make the most of your guide’s local knowledge. Recharge your batteries back at your hotel and get your appetite going — you’ll spend the evening on a food tour of the local area, learning and tasting all the fabulous flavors Morocco has to offer.
Pinch yourself! You’re already on day three of your Moroccan adventure! It’s time to leave the sights and sounds of Marrakech behind and head off into the wilderness. Today you’ll be heading south to the dramatic Ait Benhaddou Village, taking a route through the spectacular Atlas Mountains. Separating the Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines from the Sahara Desert, the mountains stretch for more than 2,500 kilometers over North-West Africa. You’ll be entering into another world in this mountainous region! See a completely different landscape with its own flora, fauna and culture. Discovering the village of Ait Benhaddou for the first time is a sight to behold. Known as the Ksar, you’ll enjoy a tour around the earthen buildings and hear about its history as an ancient stopping point for travelers heading to the Sahara. Enjoy a free evening to unwind and gather yourself for another day in the high mountains.
Another halcyon day in the Atlas Mountains awaits as your journey continues to wind its way south. You’ll take in Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, a fortified city dating back to the 17th century and one of the most impressive you’ll find in all of Morocco. Emerging from the forest as you approach from a distance, you may recognize the kasbah from the classic movie Lawrence of Arabia. With breathtaking scenery around every corner, you’ll head into the Dades Valley and meet your local hosts for the night. They’ll be happy to show you their way of life and let you join in with food preparation and cooking. And your guide will be on hand to offer translations and keep the conversation flowing!
After a wonderful doze in a local house, you’ll enjoy breakfast with your new friends before saying your goodbyes. One of the world’s most spectacular canyons awaits, in the shape of Todra Gorge. These extraordinary paths in the rock were carved by the Dades and Todra Rivers, to a height of nearly 2,000 meters. You’ll disembark from your vehicle to enjoy a gentle hike and take in the best of the scenery. From here, the desert awaits. Upon your arrival, stretch your camel-legs, for you’ll be riding one of these magnificent creatures across the sands, accompanied by a stunning Sarahan sunset. After settling into your camp for the night, eat dinner under the stars and take part in a drum session. The Merzouga region is famed for its relaxing, trance-like rhythms and you’ll enjoy a night’s sleep unlike no other.
An early start for day six, but it’ll be worth it — climbing the sand dune to see the sunrise wash the desert in color is nothing short of a miracle! After breakfast at camp, it’s back on the road as you head through the Anti-Atlas Mountains on a journey to Ouarzazate. You’ll pass the quaint and peaceful towns of Alnif and Nkob and their beautiful oasis and palm-tree forest, before landing in Ouarzazate. This Moroccan city is known as Africa’s Hollywood, and tomorrow you’ll have the chance to see why!
Wake up to a different vista in Ouarzazate, often called the ‘door of the desert’ due to its close proximity to the Sahara. Many of the country’s film studios are based here, and movie-goers may recognize scenes from The Mummy, Gladiator, and The Hills Have Eyes... not to mention Game of Thrones! Resume your journey through the Atlas Mountains to Taliouine, famed for its excellent saffron, and continue to Taroudant. Sometimes referred to as a smaller version of Marrakech, its appearance is similar in places, only you can explore without the bustling crowds. With a laid-back atmosphere, friendly markets and lovely architecture, Taroudant is a delightful city to relax in for the night as you reach the halfway point of your Moroccan adventure.
Your journey continues through the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains to Agadir, a city on the Atlantic coastline. With a laid-back vibe and miles of glorious golden sand, Agadir also has a vibrant market scene and kasbah ruins on its hilltop. After exploring the city’s highlights and taking in some fresh sea air, you’ll journey to the port city of Essaouira with its 18th century ramparts. Essaouira’s old town is a UNESCO heritage site with a lively music scene and friendly atmosphere. Take the evening to soak up some local vibes ahead of tomorrow’s full day in the city.
The bohemian city of Essaouira is yours for the day! An excellent place for exploring on foot, take your time to see its various highlights and soak up the local flavor. Don’t miss the fishing port, ramparts and cannons still fixed in the walls. Explore the winding streets and alleyways, drop in at the fish market and mingle with the locals. Consider a guided horse or camel ride, or maybe relax in a hammam. These are public steam rooms inspired by ancient Roman baths, and a great way to unwind and exfoliate. After all that traveling, make the most of the city’s position on the coast and chill out on the sands. Given the winds coming in from the Atlantic here, it’s also a surfer’s paradise!
After a night in Essaouira, it’s time to get going again — true adventurers never stay in one place for too long! You’ll travel to Marrakech, grab a bite to eat and then take the journey to Tangier. Now’s the perfect opportunity to catch up on some rest, fill in your journal or start making plans for your time in Tangier.
Following yesterday’s traveling and relaxation, you’ll be perfectly recharged to get going again! Tangier is a fabulous place to find yourself for the day, with its interesting history, varied architecture and clear blue sea. You’ll take a drive through the city’s urban district to reach the promontory Cap Spartel and take in a glorious panoramic view of the city. Next, you’ll visit the prehistoric Hercules Caves, a mysterious cave complex once believed to be the resting place of Hercules himself. Take in the city’s beautiful kasbah and its accompanying museum, before heading to the American Legation Museum, which celebrates the relationship between the US and Morocco. Finish up in the city’s old town and grab a souvenir or two. Look out for the snake charmers working in the streets!
Wave goodbye to the coast for now and get set for a return to the mountains! This time you’ll be taking a journey through the Rif Mountains, and you'll stop for a gentle hike to the charming Akchour Waterfalls. These cascades are a turquoise delight to witness, and one of the country’s hidden gems. Continue through the mountains to Chefchaouen, famed for its blue-washed buildings, and look out for the cats — Chefchaouen has a healthy population of feline creatures, and you’ll likely see them lining the steps and keeping out of the sun. Visit the kasbah and take in the magnificent views from the Ras el-Ma Spring before relaxing in Utta el-Hammam Square, a great place for people-watching with its many cafes and restaurants.
All great adventures have to end some time, and now it’s time to say your goodbyes. After breakfast, take a final look at Tangier and prepare to catch the ferry to Spain. As you glide across the clear blue sea, take in your experiences from the past few days and always keep a piece of Morocco close to your heart.
The Riad Papillon makes for a magical stay in Marrakech with its beautifully-decorated traditional interior. Located in the old town, you’ll find all the city’s highlights just a short walk away. All ensuite rooms offer supreme comfort with air-conditioning. There’s a rooftop terrace to relax in after your excursion around the city. Pop into the dipping pool to cool off from the heat of Marrakech and unwind like the locals do! Complimentary WiFi can be found throughout the building. Room type: Shared occupancy.
In the heart of Ait Benhaddou, the Auberge Kasbah is just a short drive from the magnificent Ksar earthen village. Your hosts will welcome you with open arms and be delighted to share their knowledge of the region for those who like to go exploring! On-site, you’ll find spacious and comfortable rooms, yoga classes, WiFi and evening entertainment. There’s also a restaurant, bar, shared lounge and garden to chill out in. Room type: Shared occupancy.
The La Vallee Hotel offers supreme comfort in stylish settings in the Moroccan city of Ouarzazate. With an on-site restaurant, you won’t have to go far to eat, and you’ll find other amenities just a short walk away. Relax outside around the pool, or cool off in the water and admire the beautiful courtyard as you paddle around. With free WiFi throughout the building, La Vallee is a perfect refuge for all weary travelers. Room type: Shared occupancy.
Enjoy a mellow stay in Taroudant, Morocco’s ‘mini-Marrakech’! Dar Randigaba is a wonderful haven after your time in the high-hills and all that exploring. Find the terrace to kick back and relax in, and a living room beautifully made out in a traditional Moroccan style. With free WiFi throughout the building, coffee and tea readily available, and the friendly host’s huge music collection to admire, Dar Randigaba will make every moment of your stay in Taroudant a pleasure. Room type: Shared occupancy.
Unwind after a day exploring Essaouira’s bohemian city with the perfect beach location. The sands are just a minute’s walk away, and you’ll have a magnificent view of the sunset across the ocean from the hostel’s comfy rooftop terrace. You'll find shops and restaurants on your doorstep, fresh sea air in abundance, and WiFi throughout. The hostel also offers surf equipment, trips, and classes for those looking for something a little extra. Room type: Multiple occupancy.
Found in the delightful old town, you’ll have all of Tangier’s main attractions and historical sites within a short walk, including the city’s famous kasbah. Within the hostel you’ll find a terrace with an outdoor kitchen and barbecue area, a book exchange and common room. You’ll also be able to pick up a free city map, play board games and dine at the on-site restaurant. Free WiFi can be found throughout the building. Room type: Multiple occupancy.
Close to the kasbah, Spanish Mosque and Ras Elma Park, Dar Dadicilef offers calming surroundings after your time in the mountains. You’ll find scrumptious Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Moroccan meals in the nearby restaurants. A garden, terrace and barbecue facilities can be found on-site, with free WiFi availabile throughout the premises. Take a jaunt to the nearby El Hammam Square and see the sun set as you mingle with the locals. Room type: Multiple occupancy.
We know many of you are yearning to travel, but also want to do it in a safe and enjoyable way.
To ensure your wellbeing, we’re working with each of our partners to ensure that exhaustive precautionary health and safety measures are in place. This includes reducing group sizes, incorporating more outdoor adventures, and closely monitoring the spread on the ground.
At the same time, we also know that this is a holiday for you and that you want to experience the best of each location, with minimal inconvenience. We’re confident that each of our trips will be both safe and enjoyable, but if we cannot keep to either of those promises, we will defer or cancel the trip if necessary and gladly issue you credit for a future tour to be used towards any tour within 2 years.
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a credit towards a future trip. You will receive a credit equivalent to 100% of your trip payment to be used anytime within the next 2 years from the date the credit note is issued.
A full credit will also be issued if the tour is canceled due to COVID-19 travel restrictions (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.