Trip Overview

Experience Morocco in 2020 as only an Adventure Woman can!  On this spirited 14-day cultural journey in Northern Africa, explore Morocco’s traditions, visit mountain villages, local markets, discover its diverse landscapes, taste tantalizing Moroccan cuisine, then travel by camel to a secluded desert camp!

On this AdventureWomen cultural tour in Morocco, you’ll enjoy the warmth of boundless sun and sand while experiencing the kaleidoscope of colors, sights, and sounds found throughout this celebrated kingdom. Upon entering Rabat, Morocco’s walled capital, you’ll immediately encounter icons of antiquity situated right alongside elements of 21st century modernity: whitewashed walls, sculptural keyhole arches, and zellij mosaics in contrast with the pristine, palm-lined urban center. Walking from the Kasbah Oudaya, a fortified city inside Rabat with hip cafés and gardens, stand before the tallest minaret in the world, Hassan Tower. Nearby, you’ll visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, resting place of kings.

Breaking bread brings everyone together in Morocco so you and your travelling companions will share a meal with a local Moroccan family while in the “blue city” of Chefchaouen. Afterwards, you’ll tour a djellaba workshop and meet the medina’s friendly local artists. Then, since you’re an Adventure Woman, you’ll hike up one of the surrounding hills for a stunning panoramic view!

From Volubilis, do as the Romans once did: fortify yourself with local wine at Meknes. Then pass through 1,000 years of history over the next two days and enter Fes, one of the best preserved medieval Islamic cities in the world. Here, learn centuries-old Moroccan methods of tanning and dying leather outdoors. (Ask what they use to cure the hides.) Head south to Sefrou for a morning with the women of an artists’ cooperative then continue your travels while watching the changing colors, landscape, architecture, and vegetation on this vibrant cross-country journey.

At Erfoud, a luxury tented camp experience in the Sahara awaits, nestled in the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Take this evening to fully unwind together; compare travel notes, stories, and laughs with your companions, and relax together in this peaceful getaway, then ride colorfully festooned camels across the rippling sands to catch a luminous sunset; return to dine under the stars. Rise early to witness a desert sunrise over the dunes of Merzouga then head to explore Todgha Gorge in the High Atlas Mountains; listen for camel herds approaching!

At Ouarzazate and the Kasbah Ait Ben Hadou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), feel the light and landscape beloved by filmmakers. Enjoy a morning hike exploring Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains the following day, and then spend the afternoon learning from local women educators.

Complete your incredible journey to Morocco by visiting Marrakesh and its renowned Djemma el-Fna, a massive open air market famous for its snake charmers, myriad entertainers, and vendors of North African goods. Preserving the old while embracing the new, Marrakesh today exemplifies how Arab, pan-African, and European influences blend and permeate all aspects of life. It’s also vast and complex; you’ll appreciate your local expert guide’s wayfinding skills to explore this golden-hued city!

Don’t miss this two-week women’s in-depth cultural exploration to one of the most fascinating destinations ever – Morocco!

Main Attractions

  • Feel and see the harmony of old and new influences as you travel across Morocco
  • Enjoy a luxury tented camping experience in the Sahara, dining under the stars
  • Ride a camel out into the desert for a gorgeous sunset over the dunes
  • Stroll through Chefchaouen’s blue-painted Old City and medina
  • Study the iconic artistic, cultural, and architectural influences of Islam, Europe, and Spain
  • Shop the bustling medinas and explore the vast, twisting paths through Fes and Marrakesh
  • Tour women-owned artists’ cooperatives, meet their artisans, and learn from local female leaders in education

What You'll See and Do

  • Anthropology
  • Camel Trekking
  • Cooking Class
  • Crafting
  • Cultural Exploration
  • Hiking
  • Historical Sites
  • Local Delicacies
  • Spa Element
  • Walking
  • Wine Tasting
  • Women-To-Women Exchanges
Browse Detailed Itinerary

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    If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

    Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
    Email Us
    Browse Detailed Itinerary

    Download Extended Itinerary

      Browse Detailed Itinerary

      Download Extended Itinerary

        Trip Itinerary

        Day 1

        Arrive in Rabat
        You will be picked up at the Casablanca Airport by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Rabat.

        Enjoy a lively welcome dinner as you get to know your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and learn about why each woman in your trip is excited to explore Morocco!
        Dinner

        Overnight: Hotel La Tour Hassan

        Day 2

        Rabat to Chefchaouen
        Explore Rabat with your group this morning, visiting the Mohamed V. Mausoleum and Hassan Tower. Walk the narrow alleyways of Kasbah Oudaya, an old fortress.

        Drive into the Rif Mountains and enjoy lunch on your way to Chefchaouen. When you arrive, have a brief orientation of the small, blue-washed town before settling into your hotel so you know your way around!
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Ryad Lina

        Day 3

        Chefchaouen
        Enjoy a walking tour of the Medina in Chefchaouen, visiting the main sites of the city. Soak up the atmosphere of this town with so many mixed cultures, and witness the influence of the native Berbers, Muslims, and Jewish refugees from Spain. Visit a traditional workshop to learn about the djellaba, the traditional long, loose-fitting outer robe worn in the area. Most djellabas have a hood that comes to a point in the back.

        Join a local family for a traditional lunch. Learn about the family’s history, customs, and share some of your own history with your hosts!

        Take a short hike up one of the hills surrounding Chefchaouen to get a panoramic view of this unique place.

        After a day in the city, you might want to treat yourself with a Hammam (massage) at the hotel. The Hammams here are extremely traditional – it’s quite the cultural experience!
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Ryad Lina

        Day 4

        Chefchaouen to Fes
        Depart Chefchaouen and drive through the Moroccan countryside toward Fes.

        Stop to explore Volubilis, an unexpected Roman site, which lies on a rich river valley with the dark Zerhoun mountain ridge as a backdrop. It was once the capital of a Roman province and the southern border of the Imperial road. Soak in the history of the area as you see some of the most preserved mosaics of the Roman era in Morocco.

        Stop in Meknes at one of the finest vineyards in the area. Tour the vineyard and enjoy tasting some Moroccan wines with your group – not many people can say they have tried wines in Morocco!

        Arrive in Fes late this evening and settle into your room before having dinner as a group.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Riad Fes

        Day 5

        Fes
        From a small hill, enjoy a nice view of the city of Fes, one of the most preserved medieval Islamic cities in the world. Your expert native guide of Fes will accompany you to the old Medina, through the very narrow streets, to the souks and the tanneries. Explore the Karaouine Mosque, the Medersas, and the Nejjarine.

        Visit a tannery and learn how local leatherwork is still created using ancient skills – make sure to ask about the materials they use, you might be surprised! You’ll also have an opportunity to see the special blue ceramics made in Fes.

        Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant in the Medina.

        This afternoon, either take a cooking class, learning to make excellently spiced (but not spicy!) local dishes, or enjoy a pottery workshop. The cooking class is $45 per person, and the pottery workshop is $20 per person. You can pay for these directly with your guide.

        If you opt out of the cooking class and pottery workshop this afternoon, take some time at your Riad to relax.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Riad Fes

        Day 6

        Fes
        Leave Fes for Sefrou and spend the morning with a women’s cooperative that makes djellaba, fabric, scarves, and rugs. Learn how the women make cherry buttons, and learn to make them yourself!

        Enjoy lunch with the women – share your story with them, and learn about their families, their lives, and their goals.

        Head back to Fes, where you’ll arrive around midafternoon. Enjoy your lovely hotel, try a Hammam, take a dip in the swimming pool, or enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Riad Fes

        Day 7

        Fes to Erfoud
        Continue your journey to Southern Morocco with a few short stops including a picnic lunch along the way. Watch for changing colors, landscape, architecture, and the vegetation along this journey. Settle into your hotel when you arrive this evening. It’s a long drive today (nearly eight hours), but you’ll be rewarded with a much more private, off-the-beaten path experience, including the possibility of meeting a local semi-nomadic family.

        Arrive this evening at your lovely hotel in Erfoud. Settle in, enjoy dinner, and decide what you’ll do with your free morning tomorrow!
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Kasbah Chergui

        Day 8

        Erfoud to Merzouga
        Enjoy a relaxing, free morning at your hotel in this beautiful area before departing for Merzouga. Enjoy lunch along the way before transferring to your private desert camp.

        Arrive at your luxury tented camp in the dunes of Erg Chebbi.

        The camel handlers and camels will be waiting to take you on a camel ride to soak in the sunset over the vast sand dunes. Enjoy a hearty dinner outside under the starry sky with your new friends.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Luxury Tented Camp

        Day 9

        Merzouga to Skoura
        If you’re awake early enough, walk up to one of the highest sand dunes to watch the sun rise over the desert. This is a peaceful experience you won’t forget.

        Enjoy some free time at your camp before rejoining your driver to head to the Todgha Gorge.

        Explore on foot in the Todgha Gorge, a canyon in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains. The gorge is spectacular; and you will probably meet local people herding camels and goats along the way!

        Enjoy a delicious dinner as a group this evening. By now, you’ll feel like an expert on Moroccan food!
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Ksar el Kabbaba

        Day 10

        Skoura to the Atlas Mountains
        Explore the Kasbah on foot. Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a World Heritage Site, is probably the most preserved Kasbah in the south of Morocco, and is a famous film location.

        After lunch, cross the spectacular Tizi n Tichka pass, journey towards the plains, and then head up to the village of Asni at the foot of the Atlas Mountains – this will be a complete change of scenery. Today’s total drive time will be about six and a half hours, but helps you get off the beaten path to explore Morocco more deeply.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Kasbah Angour

        Day 11

        Atlas Mountains to Marrakech
        Go out on a hike to discover the traditional architecture of the Berber villages and learn about local terraced agriculture.

        Visit a local women’s group, which offers education and teaches traditional skills to local people.

        Drive about an hour to Marrakech and relax at your hotel. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight – have dinner at the hotel, or go exploring for a local
        restaurant with some of your new friends!
        Breakfast, Lunch

        Overnight: Hotel La Sultana

        Day 12

        Marrakech
        Your local expert guide will take you through the amazing alleyways of Marrakech. Explore the monuments, which will help deepen your understanding of the rich history of the city. In addition to the gardens and monuments, visit museums such as Dar Tiskwine and ‘Maison de La Photographie,’ which explain life in Marrakech during the French protectorate. Finally you will discover vibrant souks displaying a great selection of traditional Moroccan handicrafts. The skills of the artisans as well as the amount of items piled in a tiny space will stun you. Take some time to shop for art and souvenirs – do not forget to bargain! You can work with other women in your group to make the bargaining feel a bit more natural.

        The Djemaa el Fna Square gets busier in the evening with musicians, storytellers, acrobats, snake charmers, and many other performers. Enjoy the spectacle before heading with your group to dinner.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Hotel La Sultana

        Day 13

        Marrakech
        Explore Marrakech today on your own or in small groups. Optional activities include visiting the Majorelle Gardens, full of unique native plants and exotic flowers or the local art museums.

        You could also enjoy the hotel spa, which has amazing Hammam and massage options. Or just choose to explore Marrakech to do some last-minute shopping.

        Have a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends. Reminisce over all of the memories you have made and celebrate the end of an amazing journey through this truly spectacular country.
        Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        Overnight: Hotel La Sultana

        Day 14

        Marrakech and Depart
        Say goodbye to your new AdventureWomen friends as you transfer to the airport for your flights home.
        Breakfast

        If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

        Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
        Email Us
        Browse Detailed Itinerary

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          Traveling to Morocco



          September 20 Departure:

          Arrive: Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco (CMN) on September 20, 2020 before 4:00pm.

          Depart: Depart Marrakech, Morocco (RAK) on October 3, 2020.

          October 31 Departure:

          Arrive: Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco (CMN) on October 31, 2020 before 4:00pm.

          Depart: Depart Marrakech, Morocco (RAK) on November 13, 2020.

          We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. Please contact us at:

          (800) 804-8686 or (617) 544-9393
          email: info@adventurewomen.com

          If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

          Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

          Passports and Visas

          Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

          Activity Level

          We rate this trip as Moderate. You should be able to walk comfortably for two to three hours at a time, and you should be able to kayak and paddle in a raft. We have a partnership with FitForTrips, a company that will design an individualized fitness plan for you to ensure that you are prepared for the trip. Learn more here.

          Health Considerations

          Make an appointment with a travel clinic. There are no immunization requirements for travel to Morocco, however your local travel clinic may have recommendations for you based on your age, health, and past vaccination history.

          For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the page about Morocco.

          Money

          US Dollars are accepted in Morocco, but we recommend exchanging money for Moroccan currency.

          Suggested Gratuities:

          • Head guide: $5/day
          • Driver: $2-3/day

          How To Register

          Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

          If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

          Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

          Forms and Final Payment

          Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

          • Information Form
          • Booking Conditions Form
          • Copy of Flight Information
          • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (photo page)

          Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer).

          September 20 Final Payment
          Date:           June 22, 2020

          October 31 Final Payment
          Date:           August 2, 2020

          If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

          Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
          Email Us
          Browse Detailed Itinerary

          Download Extended Itinerary

            What's Included

            Included

            • All hotel accommodations throughout the trip
            • All meals as listed in the itinerary
            • All ground transportation
            • Fully-guided sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary
            • English-speaking guides throughout the trip
            • Bottled water during all drives
            • Gratuities for hotel staff and porters, restaurant staff, staff of the private luxury camp, and camelhandlers
            • One AdventureWomen Ambassador

            Not Included

            • International airfare to and from Morocco
            • Optional activities as listed in the itinerary
            • Meals not specified in the itinerary
            • Alcoholic beverages
            • Fees for passports, visas, or immunizations
            • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
            • Items of a personal nature
            • Gratuities for guides and drivers

            If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

            Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
            Email Us
            Browse Detailed Itinerary

            Download Extended Itinerary

              Accommodations

              Hotel La Tour Hassan
              This extraordinary place defies time. Everything is designed for your comfort and well-being. Luxury, calm, and serenity are all part of your stay.

              Ryad Lina
              Surrounded by magnificent cerulean mountains and nestled in the heart of the medina, this luxurious ryad enjoys a privileged position in one of Morocco’s most unique destinations. The spa with its heated indoor pool, oriental baths and Hammam will offer traditional delicious moments of relaxation.The personalized service promises a unique and unforgettable stay in an area where authentic Medina living is still preserved..

              Riad Fes
              Riad Fes is located in the heart of the ancient city of Fes. It has succeeded in combining refinement with inspiration and invites you to relax and enjoy your stay in a serene atmosphere with decor reminiscent of Arabian Nights. Riad Fes provides guests with the opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy the splendour and authenticity of the lifestyle of Fassi nobility. The prestigious history and refined civilization of this imperial city are reflected in the Spanish Moorish architecture and attention to detail seen in the decor.

              Kasbah Chergui
              Kasbah Chergui is in a quiet spot on the outskirts of Erfoud, not far from the largest and most spectacular sand dunes in Morocco. The hotel has a pool, spa, and hammam, as well as an indoor and outdoor restaurant.

              Luxury Tented Camp
              Your tented camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes is complete with stunning detail. Your tents include comfortable beds with fine linens, attached bathrooms, and soft furnishings. Your stay in the desert will be unforgettable.

              Ksar el Kabbaba
              Located in the heart of Skoura palm grove, and made with centenary old stones, Ksar El Kebbaba comes to life in the middle of lush greenness and precisely under the branches of an aged olive tree.

              Kasbah Angour
              Kasbah Angour is a gorgeous Berber castle, perched on a hill-top in the Atlas Mountains near Marrakech, with superb panoramic views. The boutique hotel and restaurant has 25 rooms & suites, spacious public areas, a wonderful swimming pool, and beautiful gardens.

              Hotel La Sultana
              La Sultana captures the charm and elegance of residences from a bygone era, offering the intimacy of a smaller hotel with unparalleled one-on-one service and experiences. Made-up of five separate riads, it feels maze-like and disguises its sprawling corridors and hidden chambers for the delight of its own guests.

              If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

              Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
              Email Us
              Browse Detailed Itinerary

              Download Extended Itinerary

                What to Bring

                Morocco generally has a tropical climate, with temperatures as high as 95°F, but it can get down to the 40's in the Sahara and in the mountains. The temperature should be moderate during the day and cool in the evenings. There is a possibility of rain, but not constant rainfall.

                You can have laundry done along the way, or wash it by hand. We recommend planning on doing laundry when you are staying somewhere for two nights or more.

                Morocco is a conservative country. Please be sure to cover your knees and shoulders.

                Clothing and Gear

                • Duffel bag or small suitcase
                • Daypack
                • 2-3 short sleeve shirts (quick dry recommended)
                • 2-3 long sleeve shirts (quick dry recommended)
                • 1 medium weight fleece sweater/jacket for cool eve- nings
                • 1-2 pairs of pants
                • 1 pair of shorts (must cover knees)
                • 1-2 sets of nicer clothes for dinner (skirts should be knee-length or longer)
                • 1 bathing suit
                • Waterproof jacket
                • Hat for sun protection
                • 5-7 pairs underwear
                • 5-7 pairs of socks
                • Comfortable walking shoes
                • Sandals

                AdventureWomen Essentials

                • Travel documents (passport, airline tickets, money)
                • 2-3 spare passport photos in case your passport is lost or stolen
                • Write down/print out travel insurance number
                • Locks for your suitcase/duffel bag
                • Water bottle
                • Travel alarm clock with spare batteries
                • Headlamp or small flashlight with spare batteries
                • Binoculars (8x40/42 models are excellent choices; center focus models are easiest)
                • Digital camera, memory cards, battery charger
                • Power adapters/power bank
                • Sunglasses, case, and strap
                • Spare glasses, contact lenses, cleaner, saline, etc.
                • Money belt or neck pouch
                • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
                • Mosquito repellent
                • Hand wipes/hand sanitizer
                • Toothbrush/toothpaste
                • Soap, shampoo, and conditioner
                • Small packet of tissues
                • Tampons and panty liners (avoid plastic applicators)
                • Earplugs: we recommend silicone earplugs
                • Assortment of stuff sacks and bags (please consider bringing reusable or silicone bags to reduce the use of disposable plastics)
                • 1-2 bandanas/Buff
                • Reading material/journal and pens

                Personal First Aid Kit

                • Prescription medicine you usually take (in original containers)
                • Personal epi pen (if you need one, don’t forget to pack it!)
                • Bandages, Gauze, Ace bandage, blister prevention
                • Antiseptic wipes/spray
                • Antibiotic ointment
                • Cotton-tipped applicators
                • Oral rehydration tablets/packets
                • Antidiarrheal medication
                • Mild laxative
                • Antacid
                • Cold remedies
                • Ibuprofen/acetaminophen
                • Eye drops
                • Tweezers, scissors (travel size), safety pins

                If you prefer to buy a complete kit, we recommend the Smart Travel first aid kit.

                If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

                Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
                Email Us
                Browse Detailed Itinerary

                Download Extended Itinerary