Marrakech & Atlas Mountains
PRIVATE TOUR: Discover the best of Marrakech, exploring bustling and vibrant souks before travelling over the High Atlas Mountains to the historic kasbah and UNESCO World Heritage Listed Ait Benhaddou. Take the road less travelled into the heart of the High Atlas Mountains for a taste of real Morocco on this 5 day short stay.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Morocco
Day 1 Welcome to Morocco
Welcome to Morocco! Arrival into Marrakech and transfer to your hotel close to the Medina. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore Marrakech - why not head to the medina and discover the delights of Djemaa el Fna, the exuberant market place, which is a hive of activity, sights and smells at both day and night.
Day 2 Marrakech city tour
Day 2 Marrakech city tour
Spend the morning with your Marrakech town guide to get an overview of this wonderful city and its bustling souks. Stretching over the medieval part of Marrakech, the souks are winding streets of stalls and small businesses. Interspersed are palaces, madrassa (Qur'anic schools) and many cafes and restaurants.
The rest of the day is free for you to independently explore Marrakech at your own pace. Perhaps visit Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs or head to the Jardins de Majorelle. This evening, consider visiting the Hivernage with its upmarket cafes.
Day 3 Ait Benhaddou
Day 3 Ait Benhaddou
Marrakech - Ait Benhaddou. This morning we depart, across the plain of Haouz and into the rugged High Atlas Mountains where you can admire the views enroute to the famous UNESCO World Heritage Listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, which is situated in Souss-Massa-Draa on a hill along the Ouarzazate River. Films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth and more recently, Gladiator were all filmed at Ait Benhaddou, which was once a significant stop for traders carrying gold, salt and slaves along the famous Southern Caravan Route moving through the Sahara. After exploring this incredibly well-preserved site, we head to our hotel.
Day 4 Atlas Mountains
Day 4 Atlas Mountains
Ait Benhaddou - Marrakech. Head into the heart of the Atlas Mountains to the Palace of the Glaoui in Telouet - the once palatial residence and headquarters of the powerful Glaoui Tribe. This remote and crumbling palace made out of mud brick, with ornate marble and cedar decoration, has a dramatic history. Continuing on the road back to Marrakech, via the Tizi n Tichka pass. Returning to Marrakech in the evening.
Day 5 Farewell
Day 5 Farewell
Our holiday comes to an end. After breakfast and hotel check out, there is an included transfer to the airport to meet your onward flight. 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
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.
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.
Built 40 years ago, Dar Mouna is a restored Dar (country house) and styles itself as a high class house. Guest rooms are simply furnished in a traditional Berber Moroccan style with high ceilings and colourful bedspreads. The Maison boasts a natural spring water piped pool which is perfect for a refreshing dip in the midday heat. Wi-fi is available at the Maison for guests. It also has stunning views of famed Ait Benhaddou - a great place to sit and contemplate whilst sipping on Berber tea. The accommodation is located a stone's throw from Ait Benhaddou.
Discover the charm of Riad Maktoub in Ait Ben Haddou. With its traditional decor, the 23 rooms offer an authentic experience. Indulge in local specialties at the generous cuisine restaurant. Located opposite the old kasbah, a UNESCO heritage site, Riad Maktoub is surrounded by a natural setting that has inspired iconic adventure films like Lawrence of Arabia. The riad is perfectly situated for exploring the region's activities. Organize individual or group excursions to the village, valley, and mountains for an unforgettable adventure.
Tour Reviews
The tour was good, but we lost one day as Glaui Palace, our day 4 visit, has been shut for a year. This should not be part of your advertised tour, and no replacement was offered. Essentially our 4-day tour was 3 days, with the 4th day a scenic drive. Not impressed
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