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We've given each of our tours a comfort rating and a tour pace, walking or cycling grade to give you a general idea about the level of activity on each tour and the standard of accommodation you will be staying in at the end of your day's adventure.
Often you'll stay in different styles of accommodation during your tour; so we make an average rating across the entire tour. For more information on where you'll stay each night, please refer to the day by day tour itinerary.
Back to topThere may be some variation to the basic trek, depending on weather, local conditions, and the interests of the group.
Back to topPlease note that showers are available in the gites however there is a charge of 10 Dirhams.
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The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these trip notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.
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Marrakech Walking tour of the city £6; Hammam £6.
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Local Crew: Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, the Tour Leaders may organise a group’s tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
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Accordingly, you should allow approx. £20 for tipping of crew and local guides used on this tour.
Tour Leader: At your discretion you might also consider tipping your Tour Leader in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive.
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Local Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
Recommended Currency for Exchange: US Dollars, Sterling and Euros are readily exchangeable. We recommend you take a mixture of cash and credit cards.
Where to Exchange: Most major towns - your Tour Leader will advise you.
Foreign Exchange Receipts: Please keep your foreign exchange receipts. You can change any excess local currency into either Euros or Sterling at Marrakech airport before immigration.
ATM Availability: ATMs are available in main towns/cities, though can be unreliable.
Credit Card Acceptance: Not all places.
Travellers Cheques: Travellers cheques are difficult to exchange and are not recommended.
Additional Information: Scottish bank notes and Australian dollars are not accepted in Morocco.
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Up-to-date information on global exchange rates can be obtained at www.oanda.com
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| UK | Morocco | |
|---|---|---|
| Tea/Coffee | £1.50 | £0.80 |
| Soft Drink | £1.50 | £0.80 |
| Bottled Water | £1.50 | £0.60 |
| Bottle of Beer | £3.50 | £2.50 |
| 2 Course Meal* | £15.00 | £15.00 |
| 3 Course Meal** | £20.00 | £20.00 |
| Bottle of Wine | £14.50 | £11.00 |
| Breakfast | £5.00 |
*Cheap local fare in a small cafe or restaurant.
**Typical food in a simple, reasonably comfortable mid-range restaurant.
It is a condition of joining any of our tours that you must have valid travel insurance. It must indicate that you have cover for (at least) medical expenses and emergency repatriation in the event of illness or injury. We also strongly recommend your policy includes cancellation protection as all deposit paid are non-refundable.
If you require travel insurance for your tour, Explore Worldwide is an appointed representative of Campbell Irvine Limited, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services authority. Our travel insurance policy is specially tailored to the needs of the adventure traveller and will cover you for any included activity on any Explore trip. You can either purchase this at the time of booking or call us 0844 499 0901 after you have booked.
Back to topVisas are not required by U.K., CAN, US, AUS and NZ citizens. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.
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All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
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Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against tetanus, typhoid, infectious hepatitis and polio. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice.
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The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at http://www.explore.co.uk/Travelhealth/ and from your local healthcare provider.
Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.
Back to topWe strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs, including advice re: the legality of and local attitudes towards same-sex relationships. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice follow the link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
Back to topA complete list of clothing and personal gear is contained in Explore’s ‘General Information Booklet’, available only after a booking has been accepted. Here we make a few specific recommendations with regard to your tour.
Back to topTo enjoy any trek such as the exciting High Atlas Trek it is essential to be in shape before you arrive. It is not wise to regard a trek as a means of getting into shape or losing excess weight. Start a programme of conditioning well before departure – in fact as soon as you book – and be aware that short walks on the flat do little to prepare you for the gradients involved on this trek. Running, hill walking and other more active sports are suitable.
Back to topNote on Altitude: In the High Atlas our average altitude is around 2500m and the ascent from Toubkal refuge (3206m) at the base of Jebel Toubkal to the mountain’s summit is over 900m and therefore strenuous. Your tour leader will ensure that during your stay in the mountains you acclimatise enough before an ascent (optional) of Jebel Toubkal. At high altitude, you will find yourself moving slower than usual, but this gives an excellent opportunity to admire the spectacular views.
Insurance: Please ensure that your insurance policy covers you to the altitude indicated before you come on tour. If you have Explore insurance you will be covered to this altitude.
Medical Examination: You should visit your GP and specifically mention the maximum altitude the trek reaches, i.e. 4167m. Bear in mind that the final trek to the summit is optional and can be omitted if so wished.
Back to topGradient Chart
Skies are usually clear in mountain areas and weeks can go by without a cloud. However it can cloud over in the afternoon and this brings a welcome relief from the hot sun. There is usually a refreshing breeze which makes walking conditions more comfortable. Snowfalls can occur at any time of year. The amount of snow on high ground varies from year to year, but usually reaches its maximum in March. May-June is pleasant for those interested in mountain flowers; by July-August, all winter snows have gone; in Sept-October, the summer’s heat moderates and first light winter snows begin to fall. Come prepared for quite cold conditions at higher altitudes. Particularly if travelling in May, June or Sept.
Back to topSeasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable. For up-to-date information on the weather worldwide please visit www.bbc.co.uk/weather.
Back to topUnfortunately it does occasionally happen that luggage does not always reach its destination on the same flight as its owner, or possibly it may be damaged in transit. If you are unlucky enough for this to occur, it is important that you file a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) with the airline before leaving the airport. This is essential when you come to make a claim either against the airline or from your travel insurance company
Back to topLuggage: We suggest that you bring a kitbag/barrel bag that will be carried by mules on trek; a stuff-sack to store surplus belongings while on trek and a daysac. Maximum weight on trek 15kg/33 lbs. Pack mules are used to carry equipment, food and most personal gear. Pack heavy/dense items into your kitbag. It will be possible to store surplus baggage not required on the trek at the hotel in Marrakech.
Back to topTrek Kit Bag
Before leaving Marrakech there is plenty of time to re-sort luggage into what you need on trek and what can be left in Marrakech. Think about what you are taking on trek (remember your sleeping bag) and then think how big your kit bag needs to be. An ex-army type can usually be obtained cheaply. A nylon or canvas bag with a zip along the top is also suitable. Whatever you choose, it must be strong, as porters are not very gentle with baggage. Soft luggage is preferable! Framed rucksacks are unsuitable. The weight limit for the bag AND its contents is 15kg but you will probably find that you do not need this much. Please note there are occasional opportunities to hand wash clothing whilst on the trek.
For an exclusively designed Explore Trek Bag, follow the relevant link at www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore.
Small Rucksack/Daysac
During the course of a trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage which is being carried for you by the mules. In any mountain region the weather can change rapidly and you must be equipped for this eventuality. Your daysac should, therefore, be large enough to carry the following: waterproofs, sweater, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun hat, sun cream, water bottle (at least 2litre), tissues and your packed lunch. Most people normally find that this adds up to about 2 to 3kg. Camera equipment can be heavy so think carefully when deciding what to take. Remember to carry spare film with you during the day. Other optional items in a day pack might be binoculars, a diary or a book to read at lunch time. It is usually more comfortable to carry a slightly larger pack which is not full than to carry a small pack which is overfull or with ‘bits’ tied on the outside. Something between 20 and 25 litres capacity is probably the most suitable. A shoulder bag is not a practical alternative.
Plastic Bags
If you pack your gear in plastic bags inside your kit bag they will stay dry in case of rain. It will also be easier for you to sort through. Remember, the less you have to unpack in the evening, the less you have to repack each morning! A bin liner to pack inside your daysac is also a good idea.
Back to topMorocco is a Muslim country and it is important to dress with respect for local customs. People may be offended by shorts or revealing dresses, which can attract unwelcome attention. We advise that in general both men and women should cover shoulders, upper arms and knees. Transparent, ‘plunging’ necklines and tightfitting clothes should be avoided. Women should also cover their heads when entering a sanctuary, though in general, mosques are forbidden to non-Muslims. For those clients on a cycling holiday please bear this information in mind for times that you are not on the bikes. While cycling it is no problem for both men and women to wear your regular cycling gear, tight fitting or not.
Back to topWalking Boots
Probably the trickiest part of all. We strongly recommend walking in good boots. Trainers, tennis shoes or shoes of a similar ilk simply do not give the ankle support afforded by a decent pair of boots. Many people now trek in the lighter weight Goretex or leather boots They have the advantage that they take little breaking in. The slightly heavier traditional leather walking boots are also good. Avoid the types often found in high street shoe shops which are simply cheap trainers with a higher canvas side sewn on – they give little support and will probably not last the trek. Above all, your boots must be well broken in and comfortable. We do not recommend borrowing or renting boots. It is a good idea to carry your boots in your hand luggage on international flights or wear them – should your luggage be delayed, your well broken in boots are the one thing which will be irreplaceable. Gaiters are useful to keep snow out of your boots.
Trainers or Trekking sandals
Useful around the villages and when travelling.
Socks
It is best to wear a pair of liner socks under a pair of fairly thick loop stitch socks. This helps to protect your feet against blisters. Avoid nylon socks, they are abrasive, don’t breathe well and can cause blisters.
Down Jacket
After sunset, temperatures can fall below freezing. A down jacket is the lightest and most convenient way of keeping warm when the temperature drops.
Waterproofs
Breathable waterproofs made from material such as Goretex not only protects against rain and wind but also stops you from overheating. They ‘breathe' and avoid condensation which you will experience from nylon waterproofs.
Long Trousers
For everyday walking, light cotton trousers are the most suitable. Jeans are not recommended as they are often difficult to walk in over longer distances and become cumbersome when wet.
Thick sweater/fleece jacket
A thick sweater or fleece jacket is necessary as nights can be very cold at altitude. Make sure that your waterproof jacket is loose enough to wear over your sweater or fleece.
Track suit
Comfortable around the villages and much more practical (and warmer) to sleep in than pyjamas. Alternatively, thermal underwear is good.
Shorts
Shorts can be very comfortable to walk in but you must carry long trousers with you in case you get either sunburned or cold! Follow your tour leader’s advice on local sensitivities to wearing shorts during the trek.
Hat & Gloves
Especially useful in the morning and in the evening at higher altitudes. Also bring a scarf to cover your face and a warm hat/balaclava.
Ice Axe and Crampons
Please note that an ice axe and crampons can be hired locally for MAD240 (approx. £20) each for the duration of the trip.(This is in the event of snowfall only)Swimsuit
You may wish to bring swimwear for the hotel in Marrakech
Back to topThe following equipment is provided by Explore once you are on the trek:
All cooking and kitchen gear.
Sleeping mat.
Back to topSleeping Bag
As you do not carry it yourself this may be down or synthetic, but it must be 4-season (temperature –10°C to –5°C). A cotton liner helps to keep your bag clean.
Walking Stick/Pole
Walking sticks and poles are recommended.
Water Bottle
Water along the trail must never be considered as drinkable. Take at least a 2 litre personal water bottle, preferably insulated and a personal supply of water purification tablets/drops not available locally. Powdered fruit juice can be used to disguise the taste. It may be possible to buy bottles water in some places along the way. Energy snacks, including chocolate and sweets, are also recommended whilst on trek.
Sunglasses/Snow Goggles
A good pair of sunglasses are essential for protection against UV rays and glare at high altitudes.
Sun Hat, High Factor Sun Cream/Block & Lip Salve
Choose a high factor suncream (Factor 15 or more) to protect your skin against the sun at high altitudes. A combination sunblock/ lipsalve is ideal for facial protection.
Swimming costume
You may like to bring a swimming costume to use at the hotel in Marrakech
Torch/Batteries/Bulb
A small torch is essential for finding things at night. Often a head torch is useful for the early ascent to the summit. Remember to bring some spare batteries.
Toiletries
Keep heavy cosmetics to a minimum. Essentials are toothbrush/paste, soap, small towel, small nail brush. ‘Wet Wipes’ are great for a quick clean up, so bring a pack of those (non-perfumed to avoid rashes!).
Personal First Aid Kit
On each trek a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials. Please do not give medicines to local people without consulting the tour leader. See the list in the General Information Booklet for more information.
For an exclusively designed Explore Medical Kit, visit www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore.
Need help on clothing or equipment?
Then we suggest you contact Nomad Travel, our equipment partner, who specialise in kitting people out for adventurous travel. You receive a special 10% discount in-store or online. Visit one of their stores, phone 0845 260 0044, or visit their website www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore for further information.
Back to topBeing properly equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. Use the Explore 'General Information Booklet' for guidance on everyday needs for the tour. Please use the following ckeck-list to be sure that you have what you need for the actual trek. If you are without any equipment for this trip, go to www.explore.co.uk/trader or email explore@nomadtrader.co.uk or telephone 0845 260 0044.
Back to topRAMADAN 2013 - 9th July to 8th August
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 restrictions to services and minor amendments to the itinerary. Restaurants may have limited supplies of fresh food available during this period.
EID AL ADHR 2013 - 15th to 17th October
The 'Festival of Sacrifice' or Greater Eid is the 2nd most important celebration in the Muslim calendar and is a public holiday. This means that many shops and restaurants may be closed during this period so that families may join together to enjoy the festival. There may also be some restrictions to services and minor amendments to the itinerary.
Back to topFor comprehensive information regarding voltages and plug types in use in the countries visited, follow the relevant link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
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