Southern Morocco & Western Sahara

Ahlan wa sahlan and welcome to Morocco! On arrival at Marrakech Airport, your guide and driver will meet you outside the arrivals hall holding a signboard with your name on it. You will then transfer to your hotel to settle in. Situated to the north of the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and fringing the famed Sahara, the bustling UNESCO-listed city of Marrakesh is an enchanting travel destination. Marrakesh is also home to the largest traditional Berber market in Morocco and one of the busiest squares in the world, known as Djemaa el Fna. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this square in the evening, as it transforms into an enormous, open-air restaurant, and browse through exquisite carpets, spices and a myriad of other items. Art, design and architecture enthusiasts flock to the city to see its incredible artisan achievements, so beautifully expressed at the glorious Bahia Palace, Dar Si Said and Saadian Tombs, as well as at several museums. The other-worldly Jardin Majorelle is also unmissable. After some time to freshen up, it is time to set off on your amazing food adventure in the heart of Marrakech Medina. This is a colourful melting pot, where European modernity meets ancient vibes. Follow your taste buds through the medina, as you learn about culinary habits, history and culture, as you taste samples of Moroccan food. Venture behind the scenes of the markets with your local guide, who will provide an insight into Moroccan specialities at hidden stalls in the medina offering fresh olives, to stops by a neighbourhood oven – a bakery where locals cook their bread! Taste some freshly baked bread, before sitting in a local café to try mssemen (Moroccan pankcakes) & sfenj (Moroccan donuts), all washed down with a sweet cup of mint tea. Continuing on, head to the next group of stalls to have a delicious roasted lamb and local famous dish known as Tanjia. Wrap up your foodie adventure with a very special spicy herbal tea known as khoudenjal! MealsDinnerAccommodationRiad Nashira Marrakech or similarServicesAirport transfer

After breakfast, depart for the quaint Berber village of Imlil, in the Atlas Mountains. Taking up most of Africa’s north-western corner, the Atlas Mountains extend for roughly 2400 kilometres across Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, reaching to over 4000 kilometres above sea level at their zenith, Toubkal Mountain. The Atlas range is exceptionally scenic and known for the many rare and endangered plants and animals occurring there, some of which are found nowhere else on earth. Here, you will explore some of North Africa’s most remote villages tucked away in the deep valleys of the rugged range and hike through the spectacular scenery.  Crossing a vibrant green valley that is fresh and lush even during the hottest days of summer, from Douar Samra (1700m), spend the day following trails to Aremd on foot, the highest village of Ait Mizane, before climbing to the sacred sanctuary of Sidi Chamarouch. Todays hike is moderate. Along the way, you’ll see locals going about their daily lives, as they have for centuries. The walk to the shrine takes 2.5 hours. Learn about the fascinating history of this shrine. There are beautiful places to picnic for lunch nearby (not included), either by the river or with a panoramic view of the mountains and the valley below. Transfer to Tamatert for a walk around the village, before arriving at a small riad where you will spend the evening. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationOvernight Domaine De La Roseraie or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideHiking from Imlil, Aroumd to Tamatert with local lunch and professional mountain guideApproximate Distances and Journey TimeMarrakesh to Imlil: 67 km | 1.75 hrsWalking Distance: 11-12 km | 4-5 hrsDifficulty: Moderate

After breakfast, depart Imlil and head towards Taroudant, often referred to as ‘Little Marrakech’ and known as the silver capital of Morocco. Once the seat of the Saadi Dynasty, Taroudant is nestled in the lush Souss Valley of southern Morocco, at the base of the High Atlas Mountains.The city is encircled by striking red-clay walls, similar to those of the capital, which have remained largely intact since their construction in 1528. Inside these historic walls lies a bustling trading hub rich with both Arab and Berber cultural influences. The two markets flanking the main square offer vibrant shopping experiences, with Place Assareg being particularly renowned for its local handicrafts, including jewellery, carpets, leather goods, and terracotta items. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationOvernight in Hotel Dar Zitoune or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Distances and Journey TimeImlil to Taroudant: 303 km | 4 hr 40 min

Today, depart from Taroudant and head towards the coastal city of Agadir.AgadirHere, explore Agadir’s authentic kasbah and bustling port. Renowned for its golden beaches and ideal weather, Agadir is a favourite summer spot for locals. Visit the vibrant Souk el Had, one of Morocco’s largest and busiest markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce and snacks to souvenirs and clothing.TaghazoutNext, transfer to Taghazout, a charming fishing village famed for its surfing, yoga, and laid-back atmosphere. Located near Agadir, Taghazout has long been a haven for surfers from around the globe. Enjoy some leisure time at your hotel and savour a delicious dinner there. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationOvernight in Hyatt Regency or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Distances and Journey TimeTaroudant to Agadir: 82 km | 1 hr 20 minAgadir to Taghazout: 24 km | 30 mins

Paradise ValleyThis morning, after breakfast around 0830hrs, you’ll set off to Paradise Valley. Nestled in Agadir’s hinterland, which extends over the Western High Atlas foothills, Paradise Valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes. This area, characterised by its steep limestone walls and riverbed canyon, is a true haven with its charming palm grove and picturesque rock pools.The valley offers a network of labyrinthine routes that lead to a natural retreat, rich with the fragrance of lavender and thyme. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the rocky pools and hiking trails, guided by a professional mountain expert. Choose to follow established pathways through lush argan trees, junipers, oaks, and acacias, or embark on a trek to the more remote corners of the argan biosphere reserve.Cool off in the natural pools or beneath a waterfall in the valley below. As lunchtime approaches, you’ll transfer back to the hotel to enjoy a relaxing meal. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure at the hotel. MealsBreakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodationOvernight in Hyatt Regency or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideParadise Valley hiking with a professional guideApproximate Distances and Journey TimeTaghazout to Paradise Valley: 35 km | 50 minsParadise Valley to Taghazout: 35 km | 50 mins

Enjoy some leisure time until lunch. After a meal in Taghazout, transfer to Agadir.AgadirStart your exploration at the Agadir Kasbah, a historic fortress perched on a hill with panoramic views of the city and coastline. En route, make a brief stop at the Oufella ruins to gain insight into the city’s history and its recovery from the 1960 earthquake.Souk El HadNext, immerse yousself in the vibrant atmosphere of Souk El Had, one of Morocco’s largest markets. Wander through its bustling stalls, where you’ll find an array of spices, textiles, traditional crafts, and fresh produce. It’s a fantastic spot to experience local life and pick up some unique souvenirs.Agadir Beach PromenadeConclude your tour at the Agadir Beach Promenade, a lively area with restaurants, cafés, and stunning ocean views. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores or unwind at a beachfront café. This coastal city tour offers a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making for a brief yet enriching experience.Agadir to DakhlaAround 1600hrs, transfer to Agadir airport for a domestic flight to Dakhla. Situated in Western Sahara, a disputed territory administered by Morocco, Dakhla is renowned for its excellent windsurfing and surfing conditions throughout the year. Here, you can indulge in stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, boat trips to Dragon Island, wakeboarding, fishing, yoga, and desert excursions. The gorgeous lagoon, home to pink flamingos, dolphins, and occasionally orcas, is a fantastic spot for picnicking and photography. In the town centre, explore historic sites such as the Spanish Cathedral, Old Mosque, and New Mosque. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour fresh local oysters and traditional Saharawi tea, served in a delightful ceremony. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation4 nights in Hotel Caravan by Habitas Dakhla or similarServicesAirport transferPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideDomestic flight to DakhlaKayaking from Dakhla bay to Dragon IslandApproximate Distances and Journey TimeTaghazout – Agadir: 24 km | 30 minutesAgadir – Dakhla: 2 hours by domestic flight

This morning you will set off to Dragon Island across the lagoon. Experience Dakhla’s beach and desert landscapes from the water on a shared comfortable catamaran ride. Soak in the beauty of this region as you relax, swim and even test your navigation skills while learning to sail! MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationHotel Caravan by Habitas Dakhla or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideShared Catamaran ride from Dakhla Bay to Dragon Island

Dakhla is a true kitesurfing paradise. The wind stats in this area are just astounding, so you can sail the whole year in Dakhla! The water is perfectly flat with huge shallow areas; just perfect for beginners. You will meet your kitesurfing instructor, who will be teaching you all the basics of kitesurfing and will provide a safety brief, along with detailed guidelines for this activity. You will then have the opportunity to practice on the sand. (To practice on the water, training should be done for a minimum of three days). The remainder of the day is at leisure. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationHotel Caravan by Habitas Dakhla or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideKitesurfing introduction semi-private for 4 hrs

Today is yours at leisure. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationHotel Caravan by Habitas Dakhla or similar

Today is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. MealsBreakfastServicesAirport transfer