Wanderlust & Desert Dust in Morocco with Amanda Bloomquist

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Duration

8 days · 7 nights

Travel Date

Oct 1 - 8, 2022

Activity Level

Light to moderate

Group Size

10 - 15

Transportation

Van, camel

Tour Price

USD 980
/ person

Your Fellow Explorers

Age range

22 - 32

Travel interest

Nature, history & culture, exploration

Your Local Guide

Guide - Under Moroccan Sun

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.

Great Value! – Under Morrocan Sun did our tours in Marrakech and Casablanca as well as our transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca. Booking online was easy and hassle free. Hassan responded promptly to our questions/requests. He provided a formal itinerary with the pricing. Once agreed, he sent us a secure link to process payment. Hassan sent us an email with the driver/guide's name, phone number and pick up time the day before our first tour. He also followed up with another email to make sure we were satisfied with the tour, guide, etc. Guides were professional and knowledgeable. Ismael, our driver was outstanding. He was nicely dressed, friendly and shared lots of information about places and traditions. He was careful and drove safely. The vehicle was in good working condition. Overall a great experience. Highly recommended Under Morrocan Sun.

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Charlie

An easy way to travel the country – We planned to spend a month in Morocco and decided to hire a guide after reading the recommendations from Trip Advisor and Lonely Planet. I contacted 4 or 5 companies listed on TA and settled on Under the Moroccan Sun because they were responsive and in our price range. A driver and a guide met us at the airport and stayed with us the entire time we were on the road. They drove us from town to town, carried our luggage, stopped whenever we wanted, taught us key Arabic words, and were very kind and generous in explaining their culture and history. They hired a local guide in each town. They made traveling around the country very easy and ensured we wouldn't run into any major problems. They had our back.

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John M
Morocco>Wanderlust & Desert Dust in Morocco with Amanda Bloomquist

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? This trip to Morocco will take you from the souks to the sands, showcasing Morocco’s history, culture, and fun along the way. You’ll start your journey in Marrakech, exploring the botanical gardens of Majorelle, the epic markets, and the historical buildings. From here, you’ll head to Aït Benhaddou for some ancient exploration as you make your way through the Atlas Mountains to the Dades Gorge. You’ll trade the van for a camel and ride into the desert where you’ll spend the night in Berber tents under the stars. Eventually, you'll make your way back to Marrakech, enjoying ample time to explore at your own pace. With private guides to show you all the local hot spots and authentic Moroccan food at every turn, plus many more stops along your scenic travels, you’ll never want to leave this vibrant paradise. Book now and start planning your epic Moroccan getaway today!

Cancellation policy

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 the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.

Your TourHero

Tourhero Logo

This is the spot for your picture and bio. Tell your travel story and get your group excited for this trip!

Duration

8 days · 7 nights

Travel Date

Oct 1 - 8, 2022

Activity Level

Light to moderate

Group Size

10 - 15

Transportation

Van, camel

Morocco>Wanderlust & Desert Dust in Morocco with Amanda Bloomquist

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? This trip to Morocco will take you from the souks to the sands, showcasing Morocco’s history, culture, and fun along the way. You’ll start your journey in Marrakech, exploring the botanical gardens of Majorelle, the epic markets, and the historical buildings. From here, you’ll head to Aït Benhaddou for some ancient exploration as you make your way through the Atlas Mountains to the Dades Gorge. You’ll trade the van for a camel and ride into the desert where you’ll spend the night in Berber tents under the stars. Eventually, you'll make your way back to Marrakech, enjoying ample time to explore at your own pace. With private guides to show you all the local hot spots and authentic Moroccan food at every turn, plus many more stops along your scenic travels, you’ll never want to leave this vibrant paradise. Book now and start planning your epic Moroccan getaway today!

Timeline

  • Day 1 · Casablanca & Marrakech
  • Arrive in Casablanca
  • Guided walking tour of Hassan II Mosque
  • Visit Rick’s Cafe
  • Transfer to Marrakech
  • Check-in at Riad Papillon (or similar according to availability)
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 2 · Marrakech
  • Breakfast
  • Guided city tour
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Free time
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 3 · Marrakech & Dades
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Atlas Mountains
  • Visit Aït Benhaddou (lunch not included)
  • Check-in at Auberge Panorama (or similar according to availability)
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 4 · Dades & Merzouga Desert
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Drive to various sites with guide
  • Camel ride into desert
  • Check-in at campsite in Merzouga Desert (or similar according to availability)
  • Dinner
  • Day 5 · Merzouga Desert & Ouarzazate
  • Sunrise on the dunes
  • Breakfast and check out of campsite
  • Camel ride out of desert
  • Transfer to Ouarzazate
  • Check-in at Hotel la Kasbah (or similar according to availability)
  • Free time
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 6 · Ouarzazate, Telouet & Marrakech
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Hike at Telouet Kasbah (lunch not included)
  • Transfer to Marrakech
  • Check-in at Riad Papillon (or similar according to availability)
  • Free time
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 7 · Marrakech
  • Breakfast
  • Visit saffron field
  • Zip-line at Terres d'Amanar
  • Free time
  • Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 8 · Departure
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Transfer from accommodation to airport
  • Journey ends

Details

Day 1

Welcome to Morocco! Enjoy some sightseeing in Casablanca before heading to Marrakech for the night

Welcome to Morocco! We are so excited to have you here for a thrilling eight days of exploration! You’ll have the option to arrive in Casablanca or Marrakech. In Casablanca, your expert local guide will meet you in the Airport, then whisk you away to see the impressive Hassan II Mosque, located on the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a guided tour here before the journey continues along the Ain Diab coastline with a quick visit to Rick’s Cafe. This romantic restaurant was inspired by the classic movie Casablanca and features picture perfect backdrops. Next, you’ll continue to Marrakech, a bustling city, home to energetic markets, chic palaces, gorgeous mosques, and lush gardens. You’ll get settled at the hotel and have the rest of the night to yourself. Peruse the local food stalls, stroll through the famed markets, and enjoy your first night in Morocco.

Day 2

Discover various parts of Marrakech on a guided tour, then enjoy a free evening to explore at your own pace

Rise and shine, travelers! We hope you had a great first night in Morocco. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at 9:00 am and take you to all the important landmarks in the city. You’ll start the day at Les Jardin Majorelle, the city's botanical gardens. Amid the chaos of the markets, you’ll find a small oasis of beautiful serenity here, the garden a result of forty years’ worth of plant collecting. This space was recently bought by the famous company Yves St. Laurent, who ensures the property is well maintained for all to enjoy. Next, you’ll head to the dramatic twelfth century Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s biggest landmark, then take in the fifthteenth century Saadian Tombs, which represent Moorish architecture at its finest. The tombs, which include several sixteenth century mausoleums, lay undiscovered until 1917. Our tour will culminate with a walk through the winding alleyways of the Old City into the souk-market and the famous square Djama El fna. Here, you can snag some souvenirs to take home with you before heading out of the city in the morning. Enjoy the rest of the night to yourself, indulging in the food and the fun of Marrakech.

Day 3

Make your way through the Atlas Mountains toward the desert with a stop at Aït Benhaddou

Today, we’ll pack up and start our journey towards the desert, enjoying a scenic drive and multiple stops along the way. Our adventure will begin as we leave Marrakech, heading for the Dades by crossing the Tizi n Tishka pass. This impressive site divides the mountains, protecting the area from the Atlantic Ocean. Here, the valleys are alive with Berber dwellers, and we’ll stop for lunch in the kasbah of Aït Benhaddou to see it for ourselves. We’ll have time to walk the incredible grounds and eat a delicious meal with our guide. The area was built with mud-clay from the banks of the river, and when you experience it for yourself, you’ll see why it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many movies were filmed here, too, such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, and Gladiator. From here, we’ll continue on through Ouarzazate, Skoura, the road of 1000 Kasbahs, the Rose Valley, and the green and fertile Gorges of Dades. Upon arrival at our next hotel, we’ll get checked in and enjoy a free night for dinner and relaxation.

Day 4

Spend the night under the stars at a Berber camp in the Merzouga Desert

We hope you’re ready for an adventure because today promises a whole lot of trekking off the beaten path! After breakfast, we’ll pack up and head to the dunes of Erg Chebbi, enjoying the panoramic views of the old mud Berber villages overlooking the valley along the way. We’ll pass by the ancient irrigation wells and our guide’s home town of Erfoud before arriving at the dunes. When we get to Merzouga, we’ll swap the van for camels and trek into the desert to our next accommodation – a Berber camp where culture, history, and fun await. After settling into camp for the night, eat a traditional meal together under the stars, enjoy some mint tea, hear the stories of the Berbers, 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 in this desert paradise.

Day 5

Watch the sunrise over the desert dunes then travel to Ouarzazate

After a peaceful sleep under the stars, we’ll watch the sunrise before climbing back on our camel friends and trek out of the desert. To get to our next destination, we’ll take the old Caravan route, passing by many southern villages and towns. Among them, we’ll see Alnif and Tazzarin, continuing across the largest river in the Valley Draa. Marvel at the palm plantations along the way before arriving in Ouarzazate. This Moroccan city is known as Africa’s Hollywood, with its bustling downtown and film studios. You’ll have the night to yourself to explore before heading back to Marrakech in the morning.

Day 6

Hike at the Telouet Kasbah before returning to Marrakech

We continue on our journey back to Marrakech by driving through the picturesque Ounila Valley. Enjoy the views until our only stop of the trip at the Telouet Kasbah, which rests along the former route of the caravans from the Sahara over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech. This kasbah was the seat of the El Glaoui family, Glaoui known as the ‘Lord of the Atlas’. Its construction started in 1860, but there were many additions after its initial completion. We’ll learn more about its history and hike around the area before jumping back in the vans and returning to Marrakech. After you check into the riad, you can enjoy a free night to roam the souks, eat some great food, and relax in this high-energy city.

Day 7

Tour a gorgeous saffron field and get wild on a zip-line course before a free night in the city

Who can believe we’ve been in Morocco for a week! However, the adventure isn’t over yet. We’ll start this last day with a tour of a saffron field in the area. We’ll explore the lands, learn about the spice, and have ample time for pictures. From here, we’ll head to Terres d'Amanar – an adventure park with all sorts of exciting activities. You’ll have time to zip-line high over the valley before returning to the city. The rest of the day is yours to cross off any bucket list items. You can explore the souks, eat your way through the markets, book an authentic Hammam and spa experience, or even partake in a cooking class. The choice is yours in Marrakech, but it’s your last day here. Live it up!

Day 8

Bid farewell to your Moroccan adventure

The last seven days have been filled with city sights, historical depth, and desert dreams, but now, it’s time to face the music and head home. After breakfast, pack up and take your transfer to the airport to catch your flight. We hope you had a stellar time in Morocco and will travel with us again soon. Be well!

Accommodation

  • Riad Papillon (or similar according to availability)

    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, plush bedding, and private baths, and you’ll find free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Relax on the rooftop terrace after your excursions around the city, pop into the dipping pool to cool off from the heat of Marrakech, and unwind like the locals do with a cup of mint tea. Room type: Multiple occupancy.

  • Auberge Panorama (or similar according to availability)

    Auberge Panorama is located in Boumalne Dades, and offers Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. The rooms are decorated in a Moroccan style and include comfortable bedding, en suite baths, and views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a continental breakfast each day and sample the local cuisine for dinner each night. Room type: Multiple occupancy.

  • Tented camping in Merzouga Desert (or similar according to availability)

    On this trip, you’ll have an experience like no other by sleeping in Berber tents on cots in the middle of a Moroccan desert. You’ll arrive by camel, enjoy a wonderful meal, and end the night star gazing during a ceremonial drum circle. Room type: Multiple occupancy.

  • Hotel la Kasbah (or similar according to availability)

    Located minutes away from the fortified city of Aït Benhaddou, Hotel la Kasbah offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities during your adventures through Morocco. The property features an outdoor pool with a terrace offering panoramic views of the Kasbah, and each suite is equipped with air conditioning and traditional Berber decor. Enjoy daily breakfast, along with a variety of Moroccan cuisine for lunch and dinner. Room type: Multiple occupancy.

Included

  • 4 nights at Riad Papillon (or similar)
  • 1 night at Auberge Panorama (or similar)
  • 1 night in tented camp in Merzouga Desert with dinner
  • 1 night at Hotel la Kasbah (or similar)
  • Shared occupancy in accommodations
  • All breakfasts
  • Airport and activity transfer
  • All tours, activities, and excursions listed in itinerary
  • English-speaking guide

Not included

  • Flights
  • All meals not mentioned in inclusions
  • Personal expenses not stipulated
  • Optional add-ons
  • Gratuities

Cancellation policy

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 the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.

USD 0
Per person