Marvelous Morocco

Set out with your private guide to unravel the wonders of the red city! With its exoticism and aura of mystery, Marrakech enjoys legendary status as a tourist attraction. It has the unique distinction of being the city after which the country is named. On this tour, visit the famous Koutoubia Mosque dating back to the 12th century which is also the largest in the city. Listen to your local expert explain the origins of this mosque and its prominent minaret. Afterwards, head over to the Saadian Tombs situated near the Kasbah Mosque. Gaze in wonder at the Italian carrara marble used across the mausoleum. Alternatively visit the Madrasa Ben Youssef. This medersa stands out for the harmony of its architecture and the diversity of its construction materials, making it an architectural and artistic gem that reflects the history of authentic Moroccan art. Next, explore the 19th century El Bahia Palace featuring a blend of Islamic and Moroccan styles of architecture. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the souks at the heart of the old city that offer a variety of wares for visitors to browse through. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 7 hrs; Private Activity; Fixed Time; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note Koutoubia Mosque and El Bahia Palace close at 16:30 and the last entry is at 15:30)

Start off on your culinary journey amid the vast acres of vegetable garden and olive groves in the verdant Amizmiz Valley. Learn about the various traditional cultivation techniques in the region and pick out the ingredients that will go into your authentic two-course Moroccan meal. Follow the instructions imparted by reputed local chefs who are happy to share some trade secrets with you! As you prepare the dishes, pay close attention while chef Tarik instructs you on the art of cooking and the importance of each vegetable and herb in a dish. Learn tips and tricks on how to cook healthy meals without compromising on flavor in any way. Later, you’ll have the chance to savor the fruits of your labor too! (Duration: half day; Start and end times: 1030 – 1430 hrs; Private activity; Meal included: yes (lunch). Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy.)

Discover the art of perfume-making in this private workshop with one of the legendary names in the business, Abderrazzak Benchaabane. Visit the maestro at his private estate, Palmeraie of Marrakech, a picturesque setting where art and nature come together. Spend time with him in his private laboratory and learn the basics of perfumery. Then put your learnings to practice by trying to create your own fragrance. After that, head out for a stroll in the master’s delightful private garden. Make your way through the mature palms, from which the estate gets its name – Palmeraie. Don’t miss the art and sculptures that add to the beauty of the garden. Proceed towards the heart of the estate where the master perfumer’s art collection is proudly displayed. (Duration: 1.5 hours; Private Activity; For self drive guests no transfers included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note that you need to walk some distance; Please bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses & hats; Don’t forget to bring your camera.)

Set out in the morning to get a peek into the life of the Berbers, an ethnic group indigenous to North Africa. Hike through Berber villages that dot the Atlas Mountains, catching some natural landscapes as well as agricultural fields along the way. Learn about the people who live in these villages, understanding their history, their customs and their unique relationship with the mountains. Visit a Berber home to appreciate the simplicity of their lives and the materials they use. Have lunch with them, learning about their food habits and the traditional methods they use to cook. Return to your riad or hotel having had a glimpse of Berber hospitality, rural life and the magnificent Atlas Mountains. (Duration: half day; Time: morning; Private activity; Meal included: yes (lunch). Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: moderate, as some walking is included.)

Go on a trek up to a panoramic mountain pass in the area of Toubkal, the highest peak of the great Atlas Mountains (4.167 m). Begin from Imlil, a mountain retreat perched on a hilltop. Trek for about two hours, following a steep mule trail, till you reach the Tizi M’zik mountain pass (2.489m). Take as many breaks as you wish to rest along the way and to enjoy the glorious views. See the small villages on the sloping hillsides, near the agricultural terraces and fruit orchards – indicators of the community of Berber people living in the area. Enjoy the scent of the surrounding juniper forests, the beauty of the mountains and the spectacular views of the Imlil and Azadane valleys as you reach Tizi M’zik mountain pass. (Duration: full day 4-5 hrs of hike; Private activity; Travel time to activity: 1-1.5 hrs; Entry fees included; Fitness level: moderate, as it involves trekking through a short but steep trail.Guides are flexible to modify the trek duration based on your interest and fitness level)

In the scenic Agafay desert, hop on a dromedary camel and enjoy a leisurely 30 minutes sunset ride in the wilderness. Soak in the dramatic landscape of this rocky desert complemented by panoramic views of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains. Listen to local folklore and anecdotes courtesy of your local guide, as you navigate the stone covered dunes, sometimes dotted with wildflowers and Bedouin settlements. Later, settle down in a private nomadic tent at White Camel Lodge and join your hosts for some local entertainment and campfire conversations. Try your hand at card games and board games over rounds of mint tea and Moroccan snacks. Shortly after, savor a sumptuous spread of traditional Berber dishes under the stars, before returning to your accommodation. (Duration: 2 – 3 hrs; Time: evening; Private activity, dinner included. Drinks on your own account; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy.)

Discover the wonders of the UNESCO-listed city of El Jadida, also known as the Portuguese city of Mazagan, at your own pace. Built as one of the earliest Portuguese settlements in West Africa, the city of Mazagan stands witness to the confluence of European and Moroccan traditions, evident in its architecture, engineering, and town planning. Wander past bastions and ramparts that date back to the era of early Renaissance military design in the 16th century. Several of the structures are famed for their Gothic style, including the cistern and the Manueline styled Church of Assumption. You could also climb to the top of the historic lighthouse of Sidi Bouafi for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline. On your way back, enjoy a stroll on the picturesque Plage d’el jadida beach or check out the colorful markets of Sidi Bouzid. (Half Day Self-exploring activity; For self drive guests no transfers included, no Entrance fees and meals included)