From CAD 1,262 Was CAD 1,485
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Venture into the best of south Morocco on this 11-day adventure, where you’ll get to stay in a family gite in the Atlas Mountains, camp under the stars in the deep Sahara and experience a traditional riad in Essaouira. Visit the grand Ait Benhaddou kasbah, go on a camel safari at sunset in the desert, hike in the oasis of the palm groves and feast on tagine, couscous and fragrant Moroccan tea. This is the perfect trip to get off the beaten track and discover the charm of southern Morocco.
Highlights
- Take a guided hike through the High Atlas Mountains and spend a night with an Amazigh family’s gite.
- Travel in a camel convoy and a 4WD to Erg Chigaga in the deep Sahara – the most majestic place to watch the sunset – and spend a night in an Amazigh camp under the North African stars, away from any sound or light pollution.
- Veer off the beaten track to Tata and Tafraoute, deep in the Anti Atlas Mountain Range. Check out giant blue rocks, visit the traditional granary, meet the women at a local women’s coop producing Argan oil and duck in and out of souqs.
- Recharge with two days in seaside Essaouira where Jimi Hendrix spent time in the 60s, and explore the whitewashed houses, lively port and tiny, picturesque alleyways.
- Explore Ait Benhaddou – a UNESCO World Heritage site with a grand history and a long list of film and TV credits, on a walking tour with a local guide who knows all the local insights.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3070
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: 4x4,Private vehicle,Public bus,Taxi
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: XMSF
Starts: Marrakech, Morocco
Finishes: Marrakech, Morocco
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (10), Lunch (2), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Camp site (1 night),Gite (1 night),Hotel (6 nights),Riad (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1262 (CAD 115 /day)
Itinerary
Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Marrakech in Morocco. This vibrant city has many things to see, do, taste, smell and enjoy. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, you may want to head to the bustling public square of Djemaa el-Fna. This is the largest public square in the world where street food vendors and performers all vie for your attention. This is also one of the best spots to grab a tasty local dinner! There's not much time to explore Marrakech this, but if you arrive early there's plenty to see and do. Just speak to your booking agent to organise extra accommodation.
Optional Activities:
- Marrakech - Marjorelle Gardens (165 MAD)
- Marrakech - Palais Bahia (70 MAD)
- Marrakech - Palais Badi (70 MAD)
- Marrakech - Saadian Tombs (70 MAD)
- Marrakech - Medersa Ben Youssef (40 MAD)
- Marrakech - Museum of Marrakech (40 MAD)
- Marrakech - Hamam (public baths) (250 MAD)
- Marrakech - Photography Museum (40 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a short drive into the High Atlas Mountains to the village of Imlil. When you arrive, store your main luggage and load your overnight bags onto pack mules. Make the 1-hour trek to the peaceful village of Aroumd. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the remote village offers stunning views across the High Atlas Mountains and a unique opportunity to experience traditional Amazigh culture. Spend the night in a family-run mountain gite where, surrounded by the smell of woodstoves and bread, you’ll enjoy traditional hospitality and homecooked food. Use the rest of the day to explore the village and the surrounding farmlands. If the group is up for it and weather permits, there will be a chance to hike to the pilgrimage shrine of Sidi Chamharouch (approximately 4 hours return). Regardless of your fitness levels, the gentle pace of Aroumd makes it a special place to explore beyond the reach of the modern world.
Included Activities:
- Aroumd - High Atlas Mountains guided hike
Accommodation:
- Gite homestay (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, journey along mountain roads and over Morocco's highest pass, Tizi n'Tichka (2260 m above sea level), to Ait Benhaddou on the edges of the Sahara. Perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century, Ait Benhaddou is one of Morocco's most iconic sites and a World Heritage site. It was once an important stop for caravans passing through as they carried salt across the Sahara, returning with gold, ivory and slaves. Does it look familiar? The town has a long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator! Enjoy a leader-led walk through the winding streets of the Old Town, making your way to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy the views across the surrounding plains. Your evening is free, with the option of partaking in a local cooking demonstration and meal of Morocco's most famous dishes –couscous and tagine.
Included Activities:
- Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
Optional Activities:
- Ait Benhaddou - Cooking Demonstration & Dinner (313 MAD)
- Ait Benhaddou - Henna Tattoo (50 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll have a full day of driving as you journey south towards the Sahara Desert. After breakfast, drive through the Draa Valley to Zagora, where you’ll see the original route of the caravans. Then, travel along the rugged and desolate Jbel Tadrart ranges through seas of sand and past the occasional desert oasis of date palms to the township of Tamegroute. Here, you’ll visit a library filled with ancient scripts of science, literature and stories of the prophet Mohammed. After, join a local guide to uncover the underground Kasbah. Carry on driving to the frontier town of M'Hamid. From here, your group will jump into 4WDs to the massive Erg Chigaga dunes. This is the largest dune in the Moroccan Sahara and one of the less visited – meaning your experience will be further from surrounding towns and villages, away from the tourist trail. Arrive in the late afternoon, where you’ll get ready for the experience of a lifetime – riding on the backs on camels into the Saharan sunset. Tonight, the starry sky won’t disappoint.
Included Activities:
- Tamegroute - Ancient Library
- Tamegroute - Underground kasbah guided tour
- Sahara Desert - Sunset Camel Ride
Accommodation:
- Desert camp (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)
If you’re an early bird, you might want to head to the nearest dune this morning and watch the sunrise – this spectacle in the Sahara Desert is well worth the alarm! After breakfast, you’ll hop back into the 4WDs and drive out of the desert, switching to your private vehicle on the way to Tata. On the way, stop at the waterfall of Attiq in Tissint for a refreshing change of scenery. These waterfalls are all saltwater and the translation of ‘Tissint’ in the local language is ‘salt’! When you arrive in Tata mid afternoon, you’ll have a free evening to relax. If you like, explore downtown with your leader tonight and head out for a great local dinner.
Included Activities:
- Tata - Leader-led orientation walk
- Tissint – Waterfall of Attiq
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, drive to Tleta Tagmoute – a small village where you’ll get to see the oasis granaries, date palm plantations and fruit trees. The lifestyle and irrigation system here is quite unique to the region and you’ll get a deeper understanding of what life was like here with a visit to the old collective granary that’s still in use. After exploring, continue to Tafraoute, arriving in the afternoon. This southern Moroccan village sits in the shadows of the Anti Atlas Mountain Range. Although it’s now more of a campervan destination, Tafraoute remains authentic and a great base for exploring the Anti Atlas region. When you arrive, you’ll head out for a village walk and visit the local souqs to check out how the traditional babouche is made. Then, head to one of the most controversial sights here – the Pierres Bleues (painted rocks). The Belgian artist Jean Verame spray painted these boulders in 1984 and visitors still debate whether these rocks are an artwork or not (so you can decide for yourself!).
Included Activities:
- Tleta Tagmoute – Amazigh village and collective granary visit
- Tafraoute – village walk and souk visit
- Tafraoute - Pierres Bleues Boulders (Painted Rocks)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Go for a hike in the Ameln Valley this morning, passing through small Amazigh villages where you’ll stop to try the local Amlou (almond, Argan and honey spread) with tea. The hike will take you through palm trees, almond trees and fields of alfalfa crops used by locals to feed their animals. The area is quite rocky in general, so sturdy shoes are needed. Stop for a picnic lunch set against the beautiful view of the valley. Return to Tafraoute for a free afternoon and evening.
Included Activities:
- Tafraoute - Ameln Valley hike with tea and picnic
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today will be a bit of a long travel day as you head towards the Atlantic. Passing desert scenery, your route is actually a reserve for the Indigenous argan trees. You’ll stop at a local woman’s cooperative along the way, which specialises in Argan oil production. This coop provides women and their families in the rural area with extra income for their community, promoting independence. You’ll learn about how the Argan is extracted from the trees, how it’s produced, then you’ll get to try the freshly made Amlou paste. Carry on to Essaouira (translating to ‘pretty picture’). Within the stone ramparts, you'll find whitewashed houses with bright blue shutters, art galleries and wood workshops – the perfect spot for photos. This evening is free for you to explore or relax.
Included Activities:
- Taghazoute – Argan oil women's co-op visit
Accommodation:
- Riad (Number of Nights: 1)
Today after breakfast, join a local guide for a walking tour through the old medina, Jewish mellah, port and skala (sea wall). Essaouira is one of the oldest port cities in the country, and fishing here is still quite traditional. You’ll have the chance to meet one of the expert fishermen in the port, who will tell the group all about their story and show you some of the tricks they use, what type of fish to catch and what seasons mean to them. After, enjoy free time for the rest of the day. Jimi Hendrix spent a lot of time here during the 60s, so you know this is a great spot to sit, people watch and listen to the sound of the ocean. Maybe grab a freshly cooked plate of the day's catch at the port or browse the plentiful shops and intriguing art galleries. This is also a hotspot for surfing, so consider taking a lesson if that’s your thing. If you’d prefer to relax, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a hammam (Moroccan day spa) or local-style bath.
Included Activities:
- Essaouira - Guided walking tour
- Essaouira – Local fisherman visit
Optional Activities:
- Essaouira - Hamam (public baths) (200 MAD)
- Essaouira - Amazigh Massage (400 MAD)
- Essaouira - Horse Riding (300 MAD)
- Essaouira - Seafood Market Lunch (100 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Riad (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a free morning in Essaouira, then catch a bus back to Marrakech in the afternoon. Enjoy free time when you arrive, to explore or partake in optional activities. Walk around the famed Djemaa el-Fna – from fire dancers to performers and street food carts, this is somewhere you actually want to get lost. Maybe check out the Palais Bahia, a superb example of Muslim architecture, or the ruins of the Palais Badi. Join your group tonight for an optional farewell dinner.
Optional Activities:
- Marrakech - A Taste Of Marrakech: Inside the Medina Urban Adventure (605 MAD)
- Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure. (640 MAD)
- Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage (750 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure ends after breakfast. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring Marrakech (subject to availability). Just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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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
Deborah - Traveled, March 2024
We had a wonderful time during our trip to Morocco expertly led by Omar, our guide who had a wealth of knowledge and nothing was ever too much trouble for him. This trip covers a lot of miles so there are a couple of long driving days but really worth it for all you get to experience. I travelled with my two children aged 19 & 15 and made some fantastic memories and would not hesitate to use Intrepid again. Thank you for such a great trip, can’t wait for the next one !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/07/2024
Simon - Traveled, March 2024
Interesting trip around South Morocco with an excellent & knowledgeable guide and driver. Varied activities and places visited across mountain, desert and coastal areas with plenty of optional extra activities on offer. Gave a good flavour & experience of the country, people and landscapes
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2024
Jemimah - Traveled, March 2024
If you’re unsure about whether to book this trip… this is your sign to go for it! We had the most fantastic time. However, there is a huge amount of driving on this tour, so definitely take lots of games to play with your group and some good books too! Overall one of the best holidays I’ve ever been on.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Enid - Traveled, March 2024
The Southern Morocco trip was excellent: well organised; lots of variety; an extremely good guide; lovely accommodation; dromedary ride in the desert; interesting meals; friendly group members.; safety a company priority; a very reasonable price.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/24/2024
Kiera - Traveled, March 2024
Absolutely sensational trip. I did this tour combined with north Morocco discovery (Morocco encompassed) and 100% would recommend this tour. My advice to anyone in the fence about Morocco: just go!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/23/2024
Ghaffar - Traveled, February 2024
I was very satisfied and enchanted with this tour of Morocco. Everyday was a surprise sightseeing with every location we went. The meals were wonderfully prepared and delicious. I recommend this tour very highly to everyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/06/2024
Antonietta - Traveled, February 2024
Great trip to discover the south areas of Morocco, the Sahara and the Amazigh culture. Great accommodations for the price, good mix of activities and great organisation thanks to our great local guide Mbark.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/06/2024
Henry - Traveled, February 2024
Wow, South Moroccan Discovery was a fabulous trip, packed with amazing experiences and sights. The trip to the Sahara desert is an adventure I will never forget. Top tip, bring sturdy shoes for the Atlas Mountains hike! An incredible country and people - you won't regret booking this trip :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/07/2024
Gerald - Traveled, February 2024
An absolutely incredible, picturesque trip, and our fifth experience with Intrepid. We explored Marrakech medinas to the vast, serene Sahara Desert, and the amazing High Atlas Mountains. Our amazing tour leader Mbark was a book of knowledge and a great storyteller! This Morocco trip is a MUST for outdoor lovers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/08/2024
Hannah - Traveled, February 2024
The south discovery trip far exceeded my expectations. The trip was well organised, varied and fun! Our tour guide Hamid ensured we had an authentic Moroccan experience, was approachable, knowledgeable, fun and professional throughout and really made the trip special! The Atlas Mountains and Sahar desert experience were outstanding!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/27/2024
Ian - Traveled, February 2024
This was a wonderful tour. We were able to see and experience things we had never seen or experienced before and we also learnt so much about the country and its culture
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
cora - Traveled, February 2024
I wasn't sure if a group tour would be for me but this trip exceeded all expectations. I made great friends, saw amazing places and can't wait to organize the next adventure. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2024
Leah-Ann - Traveled, February 2024
As a solo traveller it’s a bit daunting going on a tour on your own but I have to say from start to the end (today) I have never felt alone. Our tour guide, Mohamed, was unbelievable, a kind & caring gent with deep love of Morocco & a great depth to his local understanding of culture & history. I have made friends on this tour & I am looking forward to another.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2024
Roy - Traveled, February 2024
Truly the journey of a life time. Mohammad, our guide is a wonderful person and a credit to his profession - he made the trip the most enjoyable and informative I could have ever wished it to be. So many great memories, I genuinely can't recommend it any more highly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2024
Lucie - Traveled, February 2024
Perfect for solo travelling who want to have a routine and plan. Guide sorts money, tips, water, transport. Make whole trip super enjoyable. I loved it for its adventure, local community vibe and variation of location
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/20/2024
Stuart - Traveled, February 2024
Loved this varied trip, Atlas Mountain hiking, night in the Sahara, beach days in Essaouira and a wonderful guide in Mohamed Bensaid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/20/2024
Lisa - Traveled, January 2024
Our 1st trip with Intrepid (South Discovery tour, Morocco) and we LOVED every minute. Can't recommend enough. Our leader Mo an absolute star. Also our other 3 Mohammeds were super stars. Great trip, great group, amazing country. DIdn't want to leave...
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/27/2024
Tiffany - Traveled, January 2024
Excellent trip, a once in a lifetime incredible experience. Lots of driving and long travel days but well broken up and all worthwhile.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/29/2024
Jane - Traveled, January 2024
The tour of Southern Morocco was well organised, informative and immersive. Our guide was excellent, nothing was too much trouble, and we had a real glimpse into a great many different aspects of Moroccan life, landscape, culture and history. The small group was the perfect size, everyone got on very well, which just added to the pleasure.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Miguel - Traveled, January 2024
I had a great experience on our first intrepid trip. It was very easy and organized. Our tour leader Hamid was very professional, knowledgeable and personable. It made our experience in Morocco that much better. I was very happy we chose Intrepid and that Hamid was our guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
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