Classic family tour of Morocco

Marrakech

Day 1: Welcome to Marrakech

Welcome to Marrakech! From the international airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and some time to settle down.

Then, head on out to explore your surroundings with an excursion to Jemaa El Fnaa Square - the heart of Marrakech, near the Koutoubia Mosque. Lively at all times of the day, it really becomes exciting at night, with food stalls, jugglers, musicians, and people vying for space to attract the crowds. After some time exploring, sit down on a cafe terrace to enjoy a drink and watch the activity in the square.

Marrakech

Day 2: Deep-dive into the magic of Marrakech

This morning, you will enjoy a private guided tour of the old medina in Marrakech, spanning old palaces, souks, hidden gardens, and ancient buildings. This square is a real entertainment hub which evolves throughout the day. At morning, onlookers will hear the sounds of snake-charmers, while at dusk, the square bustles with musicians, acrobats and storytellers. Take time to discover the wonderful souks and alleyways; visit the magic souk with its lotions and powders, or perhaps spend some time in the music or date and olive souks.

In the afternoon, you'll have time to explore further, perhaps strolling along the Boulevard Mohamed VI in the new town of Gueliz, or relaxing in one of the gardens and parks.

Marrakech - Demnat - Imelghas

Day 3: Journey to the heart of the High Atlas

Today, leave Marrakech behind as you hop on a private minibus transfer to the town of Demnat, via the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. The journey is expected to take between four and five hours, but it is scenic and very special.

In Demnat, visit the caves of Imi n'Ifri before carrying onwards to the remote Aït Bouguemez (Happy Valley). This valley was only fairly recently discovered by the public in 2001. It is now known for its beautiful scenery and flora and fauna, which make it a great walking destination. Within it, you'll reach your accommodation in Imelghas and check-in to spend the rest of the day unwinding at leisure.

Imelghas - Tabant - Imelghas

Day 4: Soak up village life in the High Atlas

Today, take a mule ride and walk through the apple and almond orchards of the valley of Aït Bouguemez. The mountain views are truly breathtaking, and there's no better way to catch them than by mule and on foot.

Next, you'll make a trip to the village of Tabant. If you're visiting on a Sunday, explore the main souks and shopkeepers' tents, and soak up the sounds of haggling that fill the air. Carry on to Rabat to marvel at dinosaur prints, before returning to Imelghas for dinner and an overnight stay.

Imelghas

Day 5: Experience traditional Berber life

A very special excursion is on the cards today: you'll have the chance to visit a Berber family. Explore their house and perhaps help with the cooking, before sitting down to enjoy a meal with them. You'll get to partake in a range of traditional activities for a unique snapshot of life in these parts - whether you're gathering feed for the livestock, leading the cows out to the well, gathering the harvest (depending on the time of year), having a go at making a rug, or learning about felt-making with the women’s cooperative in the village.

Imelghas - Azilal - Marrakech

Day 6: Witness mighty waterfalls

Leaving Imelghas behind, travel down through the gorges and mountains to the town of Azilal, and then onwards to the Cascades d'Ouzoud waterfalls. The journey is expected to take around five hours, but will be well worth it as you come to marvel at this mighty natural attraction. Watch the waterfalls up-close and climb down to the bottom pool, perhaps spotting some resident Barbary macaques as you go.

From there, you'll transfer back to Marrakech for an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel, preparing for your onward trip to the coast the following morning.

Marrakech - Essaouira

Day 7: Journey to Essaouira

Transfer from Marrakech to coastal Essaouira, one of Morocco's most enchanting places with Berber, Portuguese and French roots. This old fortified city has been an important trading port throughout its history and still has a thriving fishing harbour: take a wander down to the seafront, and you'll be stunned by the dazzling mass of fishing boats, all painted a vibrant blue. Recline on golden sands, drift between craft shops on the blue cobbled streets, relax in a hammam, or try your hand at windsurfing and other water sports.

Essaouira enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year and offers lots of cultural draws. You could discover wooden boat building activities in the harbour, join a traditional cooking class, or admire copious displays of products made from thuya wood and argan. The seafood here is to die for, too, so don't leave without giving it a try!

Essaouira

Day 8: At leisure on the coast

Enjoy a free day at leisure to discover Essaouira. Formerly a Portuguese town, and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, this windy seaside spot is perfect for pottering around, eating, and strolling along the beach. Wander through charming alleyways in the medina, walk the historic ramparts and fortifications built to defend Essaouira, or visit a traditional souk for an experience that overwhelms the senses. For an immersive and lesser-known experience, head to the town of Had Draa to witness the sale of livestock and fresh vegetables.

Essaouira - Marrakech

Day 9: Return to Marrakech

Hop on a private minibus transfer from Essaouira to Marrakech. Along the way, see the foothills of the High Atlas and watch the scenery change from the green scrub near the coast to the dry desert plains around Marrakech.

On arrival, you'll get to explore more of Marrakech at leisure. Meander the glorious souks and visit one of the beautiful mosques. Admire the Hispano-Moresque architecture of the Ben Youssef Medersa, or visit the Hivernage neighbourhood for its outdoor restaurants, cafes and boutique shops. For a dose of art and culture, pop into the Matisse Art Gallery to discover local artistic talent. For some well-needed respite from the city's hustle and bustle, find calm in the Jardin Majorelle - a beautiful garden that boasts over 300 species of plants.

Marrakech

Day 10: Farewell, Morocco!

It's time to say goodbye to Morocco. Check out of your accommodation and transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport, where your onward flight home awaits.