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Morocco Family Adventure & Beach

12 days

Take your family on an adventure from the Sahara Desert to the beaches of the Atlantic coast visiting ancient Marrakech, Unesco listed Ait Benhaddou, the High Atlas mountains and a night under the stars in a Berber camp before a chance to relax in laid back Essaouira. This tour is designed for children aged 5 and over.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

12 days

Starts

Marrakech

Ends

Marrakech

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour guide

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 16

Minimum age

5 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Saturdays

Hotel Rating

3 star

Countries

Morocco

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 11, Lunch: 3, Dinner: 7
Per person from
NZD$2,005.00
Total From
NZD$4,010.00
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$1,414.00
$3,303.00

Tour Highlights

Marrakech - Browse the souks of Djemaa el Fn and explore the charming medina independently or join an optional guided tour
Ait Benhaddou - Wander the streets of this famous UNESCO-listed kasbah, which has starred in many movies and TV shows
Sahara Desert - Ride a camel past the dunes of Erg Chebbi to our traditional Berber camp, for a night under the stars
Essaouira - Spend two days in this laid back coastal city - swim in the sea, delve into the medina or go shopping at leisure
N'kob - Taste local dates and explore this beautiful Berber oasis, then enjoy tea with a local Berber family
Todra Gorge - Explore this towering gorge known as 'Morocco's Grand Canyon', which is more than 1,000-feet high in places
Roses Valley - Pass through this lush region, stopping to see and smell some of the roses which grow here
Ouarzazate - Opt to visit the famous film studios in this pretty town, known as the 'Hollywood of Morocco'

Included

Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 7 dinners inclusive of a Berber camp dinner
10 nights 3 - 4 star hotels and 1 night camping at a Berber desert camp in the Sahara
Guided tour of Ait Benhaddou
Camel trek into the Sahara Desert
Essaouira - Beachside bliss and free time
Sightseeing and entrance fees to all included sites
Escorted by an English speaking tour leader
Specialist local guides at some sites
Arrival transfer from Marrakech Airport on day 1
All transportation and transfers in private 4x4 or mini van/touring vehicle

Not Included

International flights and visa
Note: Children under 12 years of age are not required to pay the <i>Tipping Kitty</i>
Gratuity for your tour leader. We recommend USD$30 – 40 per adult for the entire tour. Tipping your tour guide is an entirely personal gesture
Tipping Kitty: USD$60-70 per adult, paid in USD or local currency
Tipping is not a natural part of many Western cultures and many of us feel uncomfortable, or unsure, about when, or how much, to tip. However, in the places you will visit, tipping makes up a significant part of many people's wages so it's important that we get it right. For this reason we've developed a very simple system to take all the hassle out of tipping. With our 'tipping made easy' policy, a nominal pre-determined amount is collected from all group tour participants to cover tips en route. This then saves you the hassle of when and how much to tip bellhops, luggage handlers, local guides and other support staff through the tour. Our 'tipping made easy' doesn't include a tip to your group tour leader. Naturally, though, the amount is up to you as tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Marrakech

Saturday. Upon arrival at Marrakech airport you will be met and transferred to our hotel. The Welcome Meeting at 18:00 this evening provides the opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travellers before dinner.

Overnight: Marrakech
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - UNESCO World Heritage - Ait Benhaddou

Marrakech - Ait Benhaddou. This morning we travel across the High Atlas Mountains en route to legendary Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Granted UNESCO World Heritage listing, this ancient site has been the setting for many films including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. After lunch there's time to relax by the hotel pool before we enjoy a guided tour of this remarkable site, exploring the ancient winding alleys, towers and kasbahs - a handful of which remain inhabited today.

Overnight: Ait Benhaddou
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 - Berber Oasis of Nkob

Ait Benhaddou - N'kob. After breakfast, we travel to the Berber Oasis of N'kob, located at the foot of the Jebel Saghro mountains, nestled amongst the exotic palmeries. The journey will take us through the Anti Atlas ranges to cross The Draa Valley which is famous for its dates and we can stop and try some fresh ones en route. Upon arrival we have time to explore N’kob’s 45 mudbrick ksour’s (fortified village) and learn about Ait Atta Nomad’s and their way of life. We can also take a walk through the Palmerie where you can soak up the stunning views and then have tea in a local family’s home or you can head back to the hotel to relax for the afternoon.

Overnight: Nkob
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 - Sahara camel trek & camp

N'kob - Merzouga. This morning we head towards the Sahara Desert, stopping for lunch en route and in the summer there may be time for a relaxing swim. In Merzouga we transfer to our camels for an incredible trek across the vast Erg Chebbi dunes for a night at our authentic Berber Camp. An experience that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on travellers young and old! We enjoy a relaxing evening in the desert; we can scale the giant sand dunes and watch an incredible sunset before settling down to enjoy local food and listen to Berber music. Tonight we camp under the glittering Saharan stars.

Overnight: Berber Camp - Sahara Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Todra Gorge

Merzouga - Todra Gorge. Leaving the desert, we continue our journey to Todra Gorge. This 1000ft gorge is hemmed in on all sides by vertical limestone cliffs and is known as Morocco’s Grand Canyon. From its plunging depths to dizzying heights, the charm of Todra lies in its changing colours as the sun slowly moves from east to west. This afternoon there will be time to explore the gorge and we visit a Berber cooperative to see how Berber carpets are made.

Overnight: Todra Gorge
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 - Ouarzazate

Todra Gorge - Ouarzazate. This morning we head off along the road of The Roses Valley en route to Ouarzazate - the Hollywood of North Africa. The Roses Valley is famous for its roses and there will be the opportunity to stop to see the variety of the rose products which are produced. This afternoon there's an optional visit to Ouarzazate's famous film studios which have been used for films such as The Kingdom of Heaven, Alexander the Great, The Last Temptation of Christ and The Living Daylights.

Overnight: Ouarzazate
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - Famous Djemaa el Fna Square

Ouarzazate - Marrakech. Today we make an incredible journey over the Atlas mountains back to Marrakech. The afternoon is free to spend at leisure before we head out for dinner at one of the restaurants in Djemaa el Fna Square, the exuberant market place which literally springs to life in the evenings. Filled with spicy aromas, exotic music, market stalls, snake charmers, magicians, storytellers and more, it is undoubtedly the liveliest and most captivating attraction in Morocco!

Overnight: Marrakech
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 - Marrakech city tour

Marrakech. This morning you can enjoy an optional guided tour of Marrakech, alternatively you can explore the city yourself or relax by the pool. Marrakech has some amazing places to explore, the winding streets and bustling souks, visiting Bahia Palace, the Jewish Quarter and the beautiful Koutoubia Mosque - the landmark of Marrakech, which towers over the ancient Medina.

Overnight: Marrakech
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Coastal town of Essaouira

Marrakech - Essaouira. This morning we take a public bus to Essaouira (private transfer for larger groups). With a laid-back feel Essaouira is Morocco’s hippest coastal town. The windswept fishing port, broad beaches and ancient walled medina with ramparts built into the cliff have long been a favourite refuge for artists, sculptors, food lovers, surfers and backpackers. The medina surrounded by a fortress with 5 main gates you can navigate by, has retained its traditional styles and is laden with quirky shops, coffee houses, antiques, art studios, calligraphers, t-shirt designers and souvenir curios.

There’s a relaxed feel to the place and shopping here is a real delight. Locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling along the ramparts as the sun sets. The port is a hive of activity with fishing boats hauling in their daily catch.

Opt for a swim in the Atlantic, a game of football on the beach with the locals, an afternoon at the hammam, wind surfing or kite surfing (very cool to watch, even if you’d rather not participate yourself). The beach is also great for a stroll and since it runs for about 6 miles (10km) there’s plenty of it. By nightfall sit back and relax at any one of the many al fresco cafes, pubs or bars serving cold beer and the freshest seafood. Free time to explore Essaouira, try a hammam and practice your bargaining skills in the souks.

Overnight: Essaouira
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Explore your way

Enjoy a free day relaxing on the beach, topping up your tan, shopping in the quaint village souk or choose from a number of exciting optional activities such as quad biking, horse riding, surfing or wind surfing available about town.

Overnight: Essaouira
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - One last swim in the Atlantic

Essaouira - Marrakech. This morning offers free time for you relax before we leave mid-morning for our return to delightful Marrakech (by public bus for small groups) for the final night. Take the opportunity for a final spot of shopping in Djemaa el Fna or head out with the group for a final dinner.

Overnight: Marrakech
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Farewell...

Our Moroccan adventure finishes after breakfast, goodbyes and farewells to new found friends.

Meals: Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre Tour Accommodation Marrakech (From price)

Double

$155per passenger

Twin

$155per passenger

Single

$215per passenger

Post Tour Accommodation Marrakech (From price)

Double

$155per passenger

Twin

$155per passenger

Single

$215per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

El Andalous Hotel & Spa
Marrakech

Just 10 minutes from the airport, the El Andalous Hotel and Spa offers a welcome respite from the hubub of the city. Evoking the golden age of Arab-Andalusian culture; exotic and romantically rich. Guest rooms are well furnished with excellent en suite facilites as well as private balconies. The hotel pool is great place to relax by and enjoy a tasty beverage or two. The medina is just a 20 minute walk from here or a cab can get you there in a few minutes!

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
La Rose Du Sable
Ait Benhaddou

La Rose Du Sable is a Kasbah-style property located within minutes of the fortified town of Air Benhaddou. Each traditionally decorated guestroom is ensuite and boasts spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can relax by the pool or on the Berber lounge terrace, while enjoying delicious local specialties such as tagine and couscous.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Kasbah Amazir
Todra Gorge

Nestled in a small oasis surrounded by palm trees, the traditional-style Kasbah Amazir is the perfect haven for those looking to relax. Guestrooms feature Berber carpets and bamboo furniture, with some also offering a private terrace. Enjoy a dip in the swimming pool or take a stroll in the gardens. For those looking to fill their holiday with a spot of adrenaline, hikes and climbs can be arranged nearby. After a long day you can enjoy a drink and traditional Moroccan dishes in the on-site restaurant.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Les Jardins
Ouarzazate

A fairly new hotel in Ouarzazate, the Hotel les Jardins is in the traditional style of a Moroccan kasbah, with spacious rooms. The hotel is set in exquisitely manicured gardens, which provide guests with a much needed breath of fresh air. The experience is complete with a pool and restaurant, where visitors can while away the hours in the warm, starry evenings. The hotel is on the outskirts of Ouzarzate and has numerous restaurants and shops nearby.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hotel Miramar
Essaouira

Enjoying an enviable location just a 15-minute walk from the beach and some of the city’s key sights, Hotel Miramar combines comfort with local convenience. Each of the 45 guest rooms’ benefit from a separate sitting area, room service and satellite television, there’s also free WiFi throughout the property. After a day of sightseeing guests can unwind in the on-site spa, which offers a variety of treatments or visit the pool.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Child' prices are for children aged between 5 - 15 yrs. We also offer a triple share option on this tour, please contact us via the 'Book Now' button above. All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons.

On all of our family tours parents' and kids' rooms are interconnecting or side by side. This trip is for families only, including grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins who’d like to come along. As long as you’re travelling with a person under 18 years of age, you’re a family in our eyes.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
23 Nov - 4 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
22 Dec - 2 Jan
Adult - $2,115Child - $1,595
$2,825
2025
Twin/Double
Single
18 Jan - 29 Jan
Adult - $2,355Child - $1,845
$3,065
8 Feb - 19 Feb
Adult - $2,355Child - $1,845
$3,065
15 Feb - 26 Feb
Adult - $2,355Child - $1,845
$3,065
15 Mar - 26 Mar
Adult - $2,475Child - $1,965
$3,175
5 Apr - 16 Apr
Adult - $2,475Child - $1,965
$3,175
12 Apr - 23 Apr
Adult - $2,475Child - $1,965
$3,175
24 May - 4 Jun
Adult - $2,355Child - $1,845
$3,065
19 Jul - 30 Jul
Adult - $2,475Child - $1,965
$3,175

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