Key Features
• Explore Marrakech's medina & Essaouira's souks
• Discover fortified settlements of ancient empires
• Experience the majesty of the mighty High Atlas
Included
7nts Hotel and riad-style accommodation; 2nts bergerie; 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 2 dinners included.
Transport
Minibus/On foot in Atlas Mountains.
Group Size
Approx. 9 to 12.
Tour Staff
Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s).
Exotic Marrakech
We begin our journey in the 'Red City' of Marrakech. We have time to explore the historic sites and colourful souks, where carpets, ceramics and piles of exotic spices line the maze of narrow streets. Close by is the celebrated Djemma el Fna, where a melée of street vendors, snake charmers, acrobats, story tellers and jewellers congregate in the evening to ply their wares, creating a magical scene and memories that will last long after your return.
Atlas Mountains to Taroudant
From Marrakech a short drive takes us into the Atlas Mountains and the small village of Imlil. Here we walk (or you may like to ride a mule!) to the traditional berber village of Aremd before continuing to Ouirgane, where we spend time walking and exploring the local area and learning more about berber culture. Heading south-west over the Tizi n' Test pass we descend the southern slopes of the High Atlas to Taroudant. We explore this remote city, enclosed by an enormous rectangle of golden battlemented walls threaded with fortified towers.
Atlantic Ocean & Essaouira
We continue out of the mountains and drive along Morocco's dramatic Atlantic coast to reach the white-washed walls, winding streets and long, sandy beach of Essaouira. Blending Arab, French and Iberian influences, this historic and laid-back resort is a great place to end our journey, enjoying pastries at pavement cafés or fresh fish on the harbour, unhassled shopping and exploring its bright medina and walled ramparts.
Comment
Mountain walks are up to approximately two and a half hours and all are optional.