Morocco Family Trip: From ancient souks to the Sahara
OVERVIEW OF THE TRIP:
Explore the narrow streets of the walled village of Aït Ben Haddou and learn to cook traditional Moroccan tagine. Discover the sea of sand on an expedition to the dunes of Erg Chebbi, stopping to hunt for fossils and listen to the mesmerising music of Gnaoua. Enter a world of colour in Marrakech’s medina, where market stalls are filled with spices, silk and shimmering silver. Experience Morocco’s rich Amazigh (Berber) heritage during evenings of stargazing and campfire storytelling in the desert.
ITINERARY:
Explore on a journey to discover the captivating charm of Morocco, a land of breathtaking scenery. This adventure will take you through vibrant markets and towering desert dunes. You’ll have the opportunity to meet enchanting musicians and storytellers deeply rooted in the Amazigh (also known as Berber) heritage and try your hand at cooking vibrant local dishes. As you hike past stunning rock formations and climb windswept sands, you’ll discover ancient secrets in lush oases and grand palaces. Prepare to be immersed in a magical experience, a beauty that will inspire you forever.
Day 1: Welcome to Marrakech
Arrive in time to join your fellow travelers for a welcome evening. I’ve included your arrival transfer.
Day 2: Marrakech Guided Tour
After breakfast in your riad, our local guide will take you to explore Marrakech by immersing you in the red city. Your tour will include the Bahia palace, the Saadian tombs, the Koutoubia mosque, the Jamaa el Fna Square, the Majorelle Garden, and the Ben Youssef Madrasah. You’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of Marrakech as you stroll through the souks. After sunset, we suggest a walk to Jamaa el Fna, the main square in the old city, which comes alive at night with snake charmers, storytellers, merchants, and people from all over the world.
Day 3: Marrakech – Ouarzazate
Today, in our 9 days Morocco Family Friendly Tour, we will travel south through the beautiful valleys of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. We will take in the views of the red slopes and green terraces, stopping for lunch along the way. Our destination is Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, we will visit a film studio and see how the surrounding dunes have been portrayed on the silver screen.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Merzouga
Today, of our 9 days Morocco Family Friendly Tour, we will travel through jagged peaks and palm oases towards the desert town of Merzouga. We will settle into our hotel near the incredible Erg Chebbi, a sweeping sea of dunes formed by wind-blown sand. As the sun sets, we will relish a traditional Amazigh dinner and then spread a blanket on the sand for an evening of desert stargazing.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert Sightseeing
This morning, you can ride a 4×4 across the dunes and discover fossils left behind by an ancient sea. You can also enjoy the mesmerizing performance of Gnaoua musicians in a local village. Afterward, you can return to your hotel and cool off in the pool during your free time. In the evening, you can savor a delicious Amazigh dinner and then gather around a glowing bonfire for a storytelling session.
Day 6: Merzouga – Dades Valley
On this day of our 9 days Morocco Family Friendly Tour, Rise early to watch the sun rise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi. On the way, explore Rissani’s old market and Berber settlements. Hike through the towering Todra Gorges and end the day in the tranquil Dades Valley.
Day 7: Dades Valley – Ait Ben Haddou
Take a morning walk and discover the fascinating geology behind the peculiar and stunning rock formations of the Gorge. After that, drive through the Ounila Valley to reach the ancient fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site where traditional clay houses are located close together in a ksar behind sturdy walls. Explore the winding alleyways among historic buildings and climb on top of the clay brick ramparts to enjoy the breathtaking views of the green oasis surrounding the impressive fortress. Later, attend a hands-on tagine cooking class and indulge in a delicious dinner to satisfy your taste buds.
Day 8: Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
On this day of our 9 days Morocco Family Friendly Tour, We will take a scenic drive through the mountains to reach Marrakech, known as the ‘red city’ for its walls, houses, and mosques built of red clay. After arriving at your hotel and relaxing, head to a local henna workshop to experience the ancient art of temporary tattooing by having your hands painted. Later, explore the vibrant Jemaa el Fna, an ancient marketplace still serving as Marrakech’s main square. Finally, you will have plenty of free time to discover more about this beautiful city.
Day 9: Marrakech Airport
After breakfast at your hotel, there will be a transfer to the airport during your flight, end of our 9 days Morocco Family Friendly Tour from Marrakech.
What’s Included?
Private Transportation aboard a comfortable and air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or minibus
Pick up from the airport or your hotel
Drop off at the airport or your hotel
English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire tour
All nights accommodations
5 dinners & 8 Breakfast
Camel trekking in the Sahara desert
Sandboarding in the Sahara desert
Free stops when you want
What’s not included?
Lunch & drinks
Travel Insurance
Tips & Tricks
