Atlas & Atlantic Coast
PRIVATE TOUR: Experience vibrant Marrakech, visit the beautiful Cascades D'Ouzoud waterfalls, see Lake Bin Ouidane, explore Sidi Moussa and Ait Bougamez and take the road less travelled up into the High Atlas Mountains for a taste of real Morocco. Top it all off with a relaxing break in coastal Essaouira.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Marrakech
Day 1 Marrakech
Arrival in Marrakech Airport, where you will be met by our On The Go representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel or riad. The remainder of the day and evening are free to independently explore the vibrant Djemaa el Fna Square. Full of colour, spicy aromas and traders, it’s best seen in the evening when overflowing with people, acrobats, fortune tellers, snake charmers and much more!
Day 2 Bahia Palace & the old medina
Day 2 Bahia Palace & the old medina
This morning we enjoy a guided city tour, taking in all the highlights of Marrakech including the Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps visit to the beautiful Jardins de Majorelle or wander around the souks.
Day 3 Cascades D'Ouzoud & Ait Bougemez
Day 3 Cascades D'Ouzoud & Ait Bougemez
Marrakech - Ait Bougamez. An early morning departure takes us into the High Atlas Mountains along the route, for Fes. After a short drive we turn off south and arrive at the glorious waterfall of the Cascades D‘Ouzoud for lunch. After taking some time to rest and enjoy our magnificent surroundings it’s back onto the scenic mountain road past Azilal and onward to reach the heart of the High Atlas – the valleyof Ait Bougamez.
Ait Bougemez is a hidden gem, a valley close to Ighil Mgoun, the highest summit in Morocco apart from the Toubkal Range. The area is popular for trekking, as there is a long and easy trek from the Tessaout Sources/Tarkeddid Plateau, which is reached from the Ait Bougmez Valley. Exploring the valley is easily done on foot and it can be preferable to driving, as so many places still have poor roads. The centre of the region is the village of Tabant, and from here, in less than an hour’s walk several small villages can be explored - Imelghas, Iskatafene, Ikhf-n-Ighir, Agouti, Ait Imi Iqballioun, Ifrane, and Arous. Three hours walk away is the village of Taghoulit. With incredibly striking scenery and off the beaten track location, Ait Bougmez is still unspoilt. Here, you’ll spend the next three nights in a Kasbah, exploring the beautiful surrounding area.
Day 4 Scenic walk & picnic in the hills
Day 4 Scenic walk & picnic in the hills
Today, we can take a mule ride to the dinosaur tracks at the head of the valley, the route winds through fields of grain and the apple and almond orchards. After a picnic in the hills, we return to the Kasbah via a different route, stopping for a cup of tea in a Berber house.
Day 5 World Heritage Site of Sidi Moussa
Day 5 World Heritage Site of Sidi Moussa
If you're feeling energetic, a walk up to the pass of Tizi ait Imi is well rewarded with views of Jbel Mgoun and the southern peaks of the High Atlas, otherwise it’s possible to take a walk around the village, maybe see the felt makers and carpet makers at work and have a picnic at the side of a stream watching the farmers in the fields. In the afternoon, take a walk up to the World Heritage Site of Sidi Moussa - an ancient granary and fortification.
Day 6 Lake Bin Ouidane
Day 6 Lake Bin Ouidane
Ait Bougamez - Marrakech. Descending from the mountains today, we take the route past the lake of Bin Ouidane, where many wealthier Moroccan’s go for water sports. We then descend down to the Orange farms of Beni Mellal and take the road back to Marrakech. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps wander around the souks, or enjoy a meal in one of the roof top restaurants overlooking Djemaa el Fna.
Day 7 Coastal Essaouira
Day 7 Coastal Essaouira
Marrakech - Essaouira. This morning we journey Essaouira, about 2.5 hours drive from Marrakech. Essaouira is a quiet seaside town with a long beach, an interesting little medina with souks and a grand harbour and fortifications. It's the perfect place to relax either on the beach, in a cafe on the square, or just watching the fishing boats coming in and out of the harbour.
Essaouira has avoided becoming a tourist trap and maintains the original charm which made it a firm favourite with many legendary stars, including Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley and Orson Welles who filmed Othello in Essaouira.
Day 8 Discover the Atlantic - beachside
Day 8 Discover the Atlantic - beachside
Enjoy a lazy day at leisure in Essaouira. Perhaps take a camel ride along the beach, try a spot of wind surfing or simply laze about and soak up the sun. If you fancy some retail therapy, there are plenty of souks, a jewellery quarter and some good art galleries. Tonight, why not try one of the many tasty restaurants in the medina, where seafood is the speciality.
Day 9 Marrakech - your own way
Day 9 Marrakech - your own way
Essaouira - Marrakech. After a morning in Essaouira, you'll be transferred to Marrakech. On the way back its possible to stop at an Argan oil co-operative to see how the argan nuts from all the forests around Essaouira are converted into oils and soaps. Arrive back in Marrakech, in time for some last minute souvenir shopping.
Day 10 Farewell
Day 10 Farewell
Hotel check out and included onward departure transfer to the airport.
Should you wish to further explore Marrakech or any of Morocco's other cities or sights, please enquire so we can arrange the perfect holiday for you.
For information about visas, top travel tips and much more, take a look through our travel guide.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Formerly a princely residence, the Riad Palais des Princesses is a timeless gem hidden behind the walls of the medina. Fully refurbished 5 years ago it is now an exclusive residence with just 17 rooms. Guest rooms are decorated in a charming and comfortable style with traditional furnishings and bright interiors. There is free wi-fi available throughout and fitness facilities. The rooftop terrace is a great place to sip some tea and enjoy the endless view of the city and the Atlas Mountains in the background. Well located in the centre of Marrakech close to the famous Djema El Fna souk in the city's medina.
Traditional and stylish, the Riad Imilchil is a beautiful example of boutique Moroccan accommodation. The 6 rooms and 1 suite are beautifully decorated with colourful interiors and gorgeous en suites. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and there is a stunning rooftop terrace where guests can view the whole of the city whilst enjoying a refreshing drink. At night you can view the famous Djemma El Fna pulsating in the distance. Well located, just 10 minute walk into the centre of the Medina.
Just a short walk from the medina, Dellarosa Hotel Suites & Spa tastefully blends modern architecture with Moroccan authenticity. Guest rooms are tastefully decorated with comfortable beds and excellent en suite facilities. The hotel also has a restaurant Organza serving up a delicious array of Moroccan and International dishes as well as a bar for a tasty beverage or two. Those looking for some pampering should head to the onsite spa and wellness centre.
Guests can expect a very comfortable stay at the Adam Park Hotel & Spa. Each of the elegant rooms feature a patio or balcony with views of the surrounding area. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Several restaurants offer a variety of options including Italian specialities, Moroccan favourites and international cuisine. There are also plenty of ways to unwind after a day exploring Marrakech, with an outdoor pool, fitness centre and a spa offering rejuvenating massage treatments.
Bougamez Kasbah Dar Itrane is spectacularly situated on top of a hill with views all around. This property is locally rated as a 3.5 star hotel. It is an eco-lodge built in the traditional way, and is perfect for relaxing or as a base between hikes in the nearby mountains. Connect with the local culture as you engage with the local Berber people that live around and work within the accommodation. Both full board and half board options are available. Dar Itrane is located at the foot of M'Goun in the beautiful village of Imelghas.
The elegant Atlas Essaouira & Spa is set on Essaouira's beachfront, with its own private beach. Kick back and relax at the hotel which has two swimming pools alongside a poolside bar and delightful terrace. For a spot of pampering, head to the hotel spa with its traditional hammam. There's also a fitness centre on site and the hotel has a choice of two restaurants. A traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean restaurant and a beachfront restaurant serving seafood and grilled dishes. The air-conditioned guestrooms are bright, modern and spacious, with satellite TV, WiFi and a mini bar.
Perfectly located on the beach of Essaouira, with wonderful sea views. This hotel is just a 10 minute walk from the Othello Garden and offers a private beach area, onsite restaurant, sun terrace, outdoor swimming pool and a bar. Car rental and bike hire is available for those that would like to get out and explore this picturesque area. The rooms feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV and a private bathroom. Sea view rooms are available, please enquire.
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