From CAD 1368 Was CAD 1610
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Join Intrepid on this incredible female-only adventure – an unforgettable expedition to the remote and less-travelled reaches of Morocco. Begin in Marrakech, then set off to experience the side of Morocco they don’t tell you about in the guidebooks. Break bread with Amazigh families in remote homes, see how an artist co-op is empowering female rug-weavers in small villages, take in the beauty of the far-flung M’goun Valley over four days of hiking with the region’s first local female guide, and enjoy the singing and dancing of Moroccan women in cultural ceremonies in rural communities. With all the hallmarks of a classic Intrepid adventure – local leadership, private transport, real life experiences – and an added focus on female travel and female empowerment, this is a unique opportunity for women to blaze the trail in an incredible but often conservative country.
Highlights
- Find out what it means to be female in Morocco as you travel with an all-women group, a local female leader, the M’Goun Valley’s first local female guide, and meet plenty of inspiring women along the way.
- Learn from the best as you take part in a traditional couscous cooking lesson, find out how to make fresh khobz (flatbread), and be welcomed into the home of a local woman in Marrakech for a meal you won’t forget.
- Spend four days hiking between remote villages in the M’Goun Valley, accompanied by a local female guide who will bring the region to life with her incomparable knowledge and experience.
- Dine on delicious local cuisine as you enjoy a private performance by The Houariyates, a female music band that will fill the room and your heart with joyful songs praising and celebrating women.
- Visit the historic town of Ait Benhaddou and its iconic mudbrick ksar. You’ll soon see why this eye-catching site has been used as a backdrop in many famous films.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Amal. Donations support them to provide women in Morocco with culinary skills training to help improve livelihoods. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3059
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: XMRW
Starts: Marrakech, Morocco
Finishes: Marrakech, Morocco
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (4), Dinner (6)Accommodation: Hotel (2 nights),Gite (2 nights),Guesthouse (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1368 (CAD 171 /day)
Itinerary
Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco. This Women’s Expedition begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm – please check the hotel reception for information about where and when it will be. After the meeting there's the option of joining your leader and fellow travellers for dinner. Afterwards, be sure to check out Djemaa el-Fna, the lively town square in the centre of the Medina. Huge crowds converge at night to see singers, drummers, dancers, fortune tellers, jugglers and even old medicine men and dentists mingling together in what has been called the 'greatest spectacle on earth'. If you arrive in town with some time up your sleeve before the trip starts, perhaps admire the outside view of the Koutoubia Mosque and its famous minaret, or discover the tropical gardens of the French painter Jacques Majorelle (now owned by Yves Saint Laurent).
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Board your private transport and settle in for the journey to Bou Tharar village . You'll be hosted by local women, and there will be some Amazigh music and local songs to enjoy. A tasty, traditional meal will be waiting for you on arrival. Your accommodation is a beautiful terracotta gite (rural guesthouse). From here, the views of the surrounding hills are superb, and you'll be greeted with warm hospitality from the local family who run the establishment.
Included Activities:
- Bou Tharar - Amazigh music and local songs
Accommodation:
- Gite (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off on a hike from Bou Tharar village to Agouti Village (approximately 5–6 hours). For the next four days of hiking, you’ll be accompanied by one of the region’s first local female guides. Your guide knows these parts like the back of her hand and will share incredible stories of the landscape and her nomadic past – this is sure to be one of the standout experiences of your journey. You'll be hiking in a westbound direction, passing through villages and meeting some of the locals on the way. In the afternoon, learn how to prepare some specialty dishes at a cooking demonstration. This is a really unique opportunity, so get involved and learn some new skills to take back home. Perhaps the most important part of the evening is watching how couscous is prepared in a traditional way. It's a classic and characterful component of Maghrebi cuisine. Its rice-like softness is perfect for soaking up the rich and buttery slow-cooked tagines found all over Morocco. The locals will show you the tricks to getting it just right.
Included Activities:
- Agouti - Couscous demonstration
- Bou Tharar - Hike to Agouti
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off on a morning walk through Agouti Gorge, crossing through Almdoun Village to get to Amejgag (approximately 5 to 6 hours). The dramatic red walls of the gorge make for an otherworldly sight. Note the detail of the striped mineral deposits in the landscape while your leader provides some background information on the area along the way. At some point during today’s hike, you will need to cross a river, maybe multiple times. Depending on the water levels, you may need to roll up your trousers and take your shoes off. Alternatively, bringing closed-toed sandals could be a good idea too. Your experienced leader will make sure to find the best place to cross, but come prepared to get a little wet. After arriving in Amejgag Village, gain insight into an age-old craft by attending a weaving workshop run by a local ladies' cooperative. Put your skills into practice and try the ancient art of weaving yourself (under the watchful eye of some local experts!) Afterwards, there will be a walk through the village to see some of the interesting architecture.
Included Activities:
- Amejgag - Rug-weaving workshop visit
- Agouti - Hike to Amejgag
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast comprised of a comforting homemade soup, tea, coffee, and (most importantly) olive oil served with Moroccan bread. Get involved in preparing this flatbread, otherwise known as khobz, which is widespread and almost synonymous with Moroccan food. There's nothing like making and tasting the real thing under the guidance of those who do it best. Set off to Issoumar, trekking through more of Morocco's spectacular landscape. The route crosses small hills and leads to Timtda village, where you'll take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch. From here, climb 200 metres uphill to the Tissardan pass, which offers a fantastic view of the M’Goun Valley. Then descend 300 metres to Issoumar village, where you will spend the night. This afternoon, listen to traditional folk tales and play music with the local women inside the guesthouse. Singing is a big part of local music so expect to sing along with your female host and perhaps try wearing traditional dress. This isn’t a performance, but rather a unique opportunity to get involved and be a part of the experience.
Included Activities:
- Amejgag - Moroccan breakfast preparation
- Issoumar - Folk tales and music
- Amejgag - Hike to Issoumar
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Follow the M’Goun River back to Bou Thrar (approximately 5 to 6 hours). You'll most likely see a few farmers going about their daily business along the way. After lunch, visit a farm and learn some traditional farming skills that have been practiced in this part of Morocco for centuries. Take the chance to feed the animals, often a very important part of the lives of Moroccan families, whose wealth depends on their livestock. After a long but rewarding day, take some time to rest before joining your fellow women in trying on some traditional henna and kohl makeup. You may have already learned about these skills earlier in the trip, but this evening stands out for a different reason. After having your dress picked out and make up done for you, head out to attend a very special party, imitating a Amazigh wedding. Make the most of this wonderful event while enjoying dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
- Bou Tharar - Farm visit
- Bou Tharar - Amazigh dress and make up
- Issoumar - Hike to Bou Tharar
Accommodation:
- Gite (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you will return to Marrakech,but not without a stop at Ait Benhaddou, a beautiful mudbrick ksar. Retaining its thousand-year-old allure, the UNESCO-protected ksar is southern Moroccan architecture at its finest and has been used as a backdrop famous films such as Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. Once back in Marrakech, you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of the medina and visit the home of Zineb, a local woman who will be cooking your dinner tonight. Tuck into a beautiful traditional meal as you hear how Zineb’s hard work and determination to provide for her children has led her to where she is today. A passionate and talented cook, this is sure to be a final meal to remember. To cap off your final night together, The Houariyates, a female music band that takes its inspiration from the original tribes of I'Houara and Hammadas, will perform for you. Their joyful songs praise and celebrate women and often speak of desire, sensuality and love.
Included Activities:
- Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
- Marrakech - Home-cooked dinner
- Marrakech - Houariyates performance
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Your Marrakech adventure ends this morning and you're welcome to depart your accommodation at any time in line with your hotel's check-out rules. If you would like to stay on in Marrakech, we would be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Optional Activities:
- Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride (2090 MAD)
- Marrakech - Magical Marrakech City Cycling Tour (438 MAD)
- Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage (750 MAD)
- Marrakech - Quad Biking the Rock Desert & Palmgrove (715 MAD)
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Tiffany - Traveled, March 2024
What an amazing experience! Our guide Sara made this trip. She is so kind, knowledgeable, patient and supportive of the entire group. The hike was very doable, gorgeous country, kind people and always felt safe. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Colette - Traveled, March 2024
This was a fantastic experience of Morocco, the scenery, the food, the people. Sara was the best possible leader. Mama Bia a wonderful walking guide. Touda, Malika, Fatimah and Mohamed were always kind and helpful. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Paule - Traveled, March 2024
If you are thinking of going on this trip, do it. You will be transported in a different world, travel with a group of women who share a similar interest even if they come from different walks of life. You will learn so much in such a short time. Wrap up warm as the nights are cold..
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/10/2024
Hilary - Traveled, March 2024
Wonderful trip!! Did not know what to expect going into this trip but Morocco and our leader Sara made this such an unforgettable experience! Definitely recommend this trip and loved all the women supporting women.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2024
Michelle - Traveled, March 2024
The Women's Morocco trip was the trip of a lifetime. The hiking was lovely, with just the right amount of effort. What was most wonderful was the cultural aspect of the trip. I was able to experience the life of women in this interesting country. I feel a better understanding of the people and their world. Thank you for organizing such a great itinerary. I was "changed for the better" via this vacation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/14/2024
Colette - Traveled, March 2023
This was a fantastic experience of Morocco, the scenery, the food, the people. Sara was the best possible leader. Mama Bia a wonderful walking guide. Touda, Malika, Fatimah and Mohamed were always kind and helpful. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2023
Suzanne - Traveled, October 2023
The women”s expedition to Morocco is an outstanding experience. The hikes are varied and allow a real insight into village life and stunning countryside views. Food was always freshly prepared and delicious too. Our guide Sara together with a local team were amazing throughout. Allow a day at the end or start to shop in the souks for a contrast to village life. This is a superb adventure not to be missed!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/05/2023
Louise - Traveled, October 2023
This trip gave a glimpse into life in the rural foothills of the Atlas mountains that you would never get to on your own. Sara, Mama Bia, and the mule team (Mohammed, Fatima, & Fatima) treated us to four days of walking through varied terrain with excellent food and lots of music and dancing. The walking wasn't too challenging which allowed us the time to truly appreciate the region, starting with an 8.5 km walk through the surprisingly green fields in the valley. The second day was the funnest, getting to splash through one of the gorges (9.2 km), day 3 was the more challenging day walking 18 km with a total of 600 m of elevation gain, and day 4 had my favourite scenery (13.3 km). I would recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys walking and good food, and who wants to visit a bit of Morocco that most tourists do not get to experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/06/2023
Nicola - Traveled, October 2023
This is a short but perfectly formed trip! You are immediately immersed into Moroccan Berber culture in the mountains surrounded by friendly and welcoming locals. Each day is completely different and the activities really add to the trip. The walking is at an enjoyable pace with different views each day. Our guides Sara and Mama Bia made our trip super special! I recommended having an extra day in Marrakesh either before or after the trip to see the sites and the souks.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/11/2023
Sylvia - Traveled, October 2023
This trip was full of delightful surprises. Everyday was an adventure. Our trip leader and expedition crew were supportive and knowledgeable. I met wonderful group participants and local Berber folk. This was a hands on, intimate trip hiking in beautiful terrain, truly life changing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/06/2023
Mary - Traveled, October 2023
My friends and I just got back from the most amazing trip trekking through the Atlas mountains with Sara our excellent tour leader and her amazing team - Bouchra, Mama Bia, Rkia, Mohamed, and Bassou who well well equipped and took wonderful care of us. We learned so much Sara about the Berber women, culture and lifestyle. Her team made us the most delicious healthy food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It was a truly amazing trip and I am looking forward to another Intrepid trip in Morocco with Sara as my tour guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/28/2023
Sharon - Traveled, October 2023
This was an experience of a lifetime for me. Fabulous way to immerse yourself in the culture of the Berber people. Even better doing it with women from across the world. Sara, our tour guide was exceptional with her knowledge and organization skills, and her caring/fun attitude. She had a unique way to keep us living in the moment. Can not go without mentioning our great local support team of Mama Bia, Mohamed, Bassou, and Rkia, who took great care of us and prepared wonderful meals. I would highly recommend this expedition and will carry the memories for a lifetime.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/28/2023
Donna - Traveled, October 2023
Sara and the team of Bouchra, Mohamed, Bassou, Rkia and Mama Bia were outstanding. They were a hard working, well run team. Our trails each day were diverse enough between the mountains, river and villages. Our accomodations were authentic and the food was absolutely delicious
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/28/2023
Sophie - Traveled, October 2023
Excellent trip formed by intrepid. One of the most ethical tours I have done. The guides were local including our cooking team and Hanane was Berber meaning she was able to communicate with our local guide, Mamabea. Mamabea and Hanane’s relationship with all the staff and community members made our trip more personal and fun. I have recommended more protein options for vegans/vegetarians on this trip as I felt this was lacking, but food was very food otherwise. Accomodation in basic but peaceful. The hike itself was not difficult and the team organise breaks to meet everyone’s needs. And of course the views are amazing. I would highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/05/2023
Christine - Traveled, October 2023
I really enjoyed the opportunity to experience "real life" in a country that I didn't know much about. I had these romantic notions, based on Casablanca, but interacting with women in small villages on a day-to-day basis was so much more interesting. And even though I haven't "roughed it" in traveling since my 20's, it was a super fun experience to be with other like-minded women travelers. As for gifts for the kids, think about bringing small tubes of anti-fungal cream. We had a doctor in our group, and we saw more kids than I expected who could have used that kind of medicine. Yes, candy and pens are appreciated.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Natasha - Traveled, October 2023
Highly recommend this trip. It's a wonderful way to see some of the more remote areas of Morocco and learn about Berber culture. You will not forget the smiles, laughter and readiness for dancing of the Berber team. Read the packing list carefully if you are going! Also taking some pens and paper or similar for the local children is a good idea.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Suzanne - Traveled, September 2023
Wonderful experience for this 66 and 75 y/o couple. The furthest we walked prior to trek was 8 miles and we were able to manage 4 days of 5 miles(2days), 13 and 8 miles. Trekking poles and camel packs were super helpful as well as hiking shoes and closed toed water shoes. Brought camping blanket instead of sleeping bag and were warm enough. Food was amazing and appreciated the hard work of Hafida, Mama Bia, Fatma, Mohammed and Bassou. We were always well -cared for and felt safe at all times. Amazing experience, highly recommend it to all! Met amazing women from around the globe!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/16/2023
Jacinta - Traveled, September 2023
This trip is super awesome! Had such a fun experience getting to know awesome women from all over the world. Sara and Mama Bia are such inspiring women and it was amazing learning from both of them. The hike itself isn’t too hard but be prepared for water crossings and a 20km day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/08/2023
Annalise - Traveled, September 2023
An amazing worthwhile trip that will leave you buzzing. An incredible and unique way to connect as women to the Moroccan culture and Berber way of life. Momma Bea was something special and truely made the trip so special. Sara was the best leader anyone could ask for and made the trip go to another level. The scenery is amazing and hiking was not overly hard meaning you could spend more time enjoying the incredible views. I loved loved this trip and encourage anyone to go on it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Jacinta - Traveled, September 2023
This trip is super awesome! Had such a fun experience getting to know awesome women from all over the world. Sara and Mama Bia are such inspiring women and it was amazing learning from both of them. The hike itself isn’t too hard but be prepared for water crossings and a 20km day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/08/2023
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