Nomadic Expeditions MoroccoNomadic Expeditions Morocco
Morocco Tours - Fes - Marrakech - Todra Gorge - Camel Trek
Overland truck trips with English speaking guides and all terrain expedition vehicles.
It's just a short hop to North Africa to discover the mysteries of Morocco - let us take you off the beaten track for a true adventure. Travel by truck, camel and foot to discover this unique land: skylines of Minarets and haunting calls to prayer mixed in with the aromas of the spice markets.
Traditional woman shrouded in black, white washed buildings and Moorish architecture makes Morocco a photographer's paradise. And we haven't even mentioned the desert yet. Three great adventure options await - choose the trip that suits your time and budget.
- Bargain for carpets and handicrafts in the local souks (markets)
- Camp Berber-style under the stars, eat local food around a campfire
- Sand board on the dunes of the Sahara
- Sample the delicious spices of traditional tagines (local stew)
- Trek out into the desert on camels
- Party by the beach campfire
15 Day All Morocco Adventure
There is a certain enigma about Morocco, a country so full of contrasts and yet so relatively undiscovered. A country steeped in rich culture and traditions and yet at the same time very much in the 21st century. On this tour we will encounter nomadic life at its best.
[Full Itinerary] [Route Map]
Day 1: Saturday - Arrival in Tangier and pre-departure meeting
Your tour starts at 6pm pre-departure meeting at the Tarik Hotel. Following your pre departure meeting, where you will meet your tour leader and fellow travellers, we will enjoy a traditional meal in the joining hotel before resting for an early rise. Tangier is often described as the gateway to Africa, has been inhabited for more than 2.500 years. As with most Moroccan cities Tangier is partitioned into two main areas, the Medina ( old walled city) and the Ville nouvelle (new town). Tangier with its strategic location overlooking the straits of Gibraltar and it's ancient history makes a vibrant starting / finishing point for our tour.
Day 2: Tangier - Chefchaouen
Leaving busy Tangier after breakfast on the second day, we head to the town of Chefchaouen up in the Rif Mountains. With it's breathtaking scenery and long history this is the perfect place for a gentle beginning to the tour. Here we will enjoy the culture and tradition of the local people and escape up into the mountains to enjoy the scenery and spectacular waterfalls. Chefchaouen enjoys a stunning location high up in the 'Rif Mountains' part of the Middle Atlas chain. Its name actually means 'Look at the peaks' this is so true as they tower all around us.
Day 3: Chefchaouen - Volubilis - Fes
It's the third day now and we're en route to the oldest imperial city in Morocco, Fes. However, on the way, we will take a tour of the Roman ruins at Volubilis. The city of Volubilis, set at the foot of the Zerhoun hills and is by far the most impressive of the Roman remains in Morocco. A world heritage site dating back to AD40, here we will learn some of the history of these impressive ruins and the people that built and lived there so long ago. Upon arriving in Fes, we set up camp and relax in anticipation of the next day which will be spent exploring Fes.
Day 4: Fes
Fes is the oldest of the four imperial cities and was founded more than 11 centuries ago by Moulay Idris II. It's name has long been familiar because of the crimson skull caps called Fez, which were and still are worn everywhere in the Muslem world. A visit to the Medina is a must. One fascinating feature of this old quarter is the way that each trade has its own Souk (or market) and district. Near the carpet makers for instance are the workers of hand woven cloth and this Souk exports its precious wares all over the world. Another quarter is devoted to the potters and in another the aromatic smell instantly betrays the grocers and spice sellers who are surrounded by great tubs of saffron, cinnamon and all manner of herbs. Looking down on the old quarters of Fes ,from the surrounding hills is a magical experience, the muffled sounds of the buzzing city and the contained disorder below all add to the timeless quality of this ancient city.
Continuing the historic theme of yesterday, we head then for the old city of Fes and, more specifically, the old Medina. A local guide (for you will need one) will show us through the labyrinth of alleyways to reveal the various "Souks" or markets dedicated to the different trades of the people that populate this amazing centre of production and craftsmanship. After a day exploring the dye-pits, tanneries and restaurants, we return to camp to get ready for a night of first class Moroccan entertainment and food at a restaurant in town.
Day 5: Fes - Gorge du Ziz - Meski Oasis
It's day five now and following is a long journey over the Moyan Atlas, through the Gorge du Ziz, culminating at the beautiful Meski Oasis where we will camp for the night. In the morning we will pack up and venture towards the desert, Merzouga more specifically. From here we will prepare to head out in to the desert late afternoon on camels to enjoy a night under the Saharan stars that will never be forgotten. Here we will enjoy a real berber camp with local food.
Day 6: Sahara Camel Trek
We will arrange on day 6 an overnight Camel trek into the Sahara for the group. This will be organised from Merzouga. From here we will prepare to head out in to the desert in the late afternoon on Camels to enjoy a night under the Saharan stars that will never be forgotten. The Camel ride lasts several hours making arrival at our camp all the more welcome. Here we will enjoy a real traditional Berber camp with local food and do some dune boarding. The camel ride lasts several hours making arrival at our camp all the more welcome!
Day 7: Camel trek in Sahara desert to Todra Gorge
Having left the remoteness of the desert we spend the day en-route to the Todra Gorge where we set up camp for the next two nights.Here you will have time to relax and think back over the trip so far, ready to explore the 1000 ft gorge the next day. The stunning gorge up in the High Atlas prepares us suitably for the busy few days that lie ahead as we continue through the High Atlas, climbing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass for the journey to Marrakech.
Day 8: Todra Gorge
This incredible abyss separates the High Atlas range of mountains from the Jbel Sahro and is the same kind of geographical accident, but on a smaller scale, as the Grand Canyon. With walls soaring over 300 metres skyward, the red cliffs and the brilliant blue sky form an awe-inspiring scene. The charm of Todra lies in it's changing moods and colours as the sun slowly treks from east to west. The local hoteliers have constructed huge Berber tents and provide authentic Moroccan dishes for those of us wishing to experience some of the local lifestyle.
Day 9: Todra Gorge to Marrakech
After a second night in the Todra Gorge you will leave the wilderness and head for Marrakech. Possibly the strongest cultural place in Morocco, Marrakech is rich in souks, palaces and day time activity whilst at night the Djemaa El-Fna square bursts in to life. From magicians to acrobats to open air food stalls the experience will leave you spellbound by this historic place. Here we will spend the whole of day ten being marvelled by its diversity and continue in to the evening before resting and thinking about the relaxing time ahead.
Day 10: Marrakech
In ancient times Marrakech was called 'Morocco City' and sometimes referred to as the 'Pearl of the South'. The colour of Marrakech is most remarkable, a reddish-brown describes it best. The city walls, the houses and the soil are all of the same shade and even the new French-style quarter contains houses tinted to the some colour. Marrakech has approximately 2Okms of walls enclosing gardens and lakes. Its great pride and landmark, visible from many miles, is the Koutoubia Tower, sister to the Tower of Hassan in Rabat and the Giralda Tower in Seville. It is said that after the third of these was completed, the cruel sultan had the eyes of his architect put out, lest he should build another more beautiful tower elsewhere.
One of the most striking features of Marrakech is the huge open souk, which for the past eight centuries has been the scene of parades, executions and entertainment, as well as the centre for buying and selling for hundreds of miles around. It is now the liveliest place imaginable, where all sorts of exotic entertainment can be seen, from poetry reading to snake charming to acrobatics. The enthusiastic may wish to hire a bicycle to further explore Marrakech at their own pace. Particularly of interest are the many beautiful public and private gardens.
Day 11 & 12: Marrakech - Essaouira
Next morning, we pack up and make our way across to Essaouira a lovely old Portugese fishing village with great beaches and surf. You will have a free day in Essaouira on day 12 to unwind on the beach or, alternatively explore the medina with its various souks and woodcarving workshops. We camp here before the long drive on day thirteen up to Asillah where we will relax and unwind as the tour reaches its conclusion.
Day 13: Essaouira - El-Jadida - Asilah
Today starts early as you have a long 12 hour drive ahead of you to get the Asilah. You will travel along the stunning coast line of Morocco stopping along the way in El Jadida. El Jadida is the last UNESCO site in Morocco and its ancient Medina along with the Atlantic Coast makes it one of the most beautiful places in all Moroccan Coast. Your final destination of the day will be Asilah. Asilah is one of the best stops on the North Atlantic coast. Well known for it's medieval pamparts, narrow streets and amazing beaches.
Day 14 & 15: Asilah - Tangier (Cap Spartel)
The last full day off your tour you will spend the morning exploring the town of Asilah walking the street and buying those last few souvenirs or spending your morning on one of the many beaches. Before returning to Tangier you will enjoy a night at Cap Spartel where we will have a last night bbq & campfire together. You will also have time to visit the Hercules caves carved into the rugged Atlantic coastline. Your tour finishes in Tangier after breakfast. You are free to continue your travels or return home, hopefully feeling that you have experienced a little of the wonder of Morocco.
- Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
- Departs: Tangier.
- Accommodation: 9 nights camping (1 night Berber camp) and 5 nights hotels.
- Price (May & Jun): 399.00 GBP (1049.00 AUD)
- Price (July to Oct): 429.00 GBP (1149.00 AUD)
- Local Payment: 220 Euros, Includes all accommodation, 3 meals per day and all guided tours during your trip.
| Morocco Tour 15 Day | Brochure Price | Our Price |
| Standard | £399.00 | £399.00 |
| Student (ISIC/ISE card) | £399.00 | £399.00 |
Book Here!
8 Day Marrakech & Sahara
Take a short hop to North Africa and discover the Mysteries of Morocco. Skylines of minarets and aromas from the spice markets will captivate you. Bargain for carpets and handicrafts in the local souks. Trek through the mountains, ride a camel across the desert or spend a lazy day on the beach - Morocco has it all!
[Full Itinerary] [Route Map]
Day 1: Saturday - Arrival in Marrakech & pre-departure meeting
Your tour starts and ends in the amazing city of Marrakech. On day one you will meet your guide for a pre-departure meeting in your hotel at 6pm. This evening you will have a chance to get to know your guide and your fellow travelers. In ancient times Marrakech was called 'Morocco City' and sometimes referred to as the 'Pearl of the South'. The colour of Marrakech is most remarkable: a reddish-brown describes it best. The city walls, the houses and the soil are all the same shade and even the new French-style quarter contains houses tinted to the some colour. Marrakech has approximately 20kms of walls enclosing gardens and lakes. Its great pride and landmark, visible from many miles, is the Koutoubia Tower, sister to the Tower of Hassan in Rabat and the Giralda Tower in Sevillle. It is said that after the third of these was completed, the cruel sultan had the eyes of his architect put out, lest he should build another more beautiful tower elsewhere. One of the most striking features of Marrakech is the huge open souk, which for the past eight centuries has been the scene of parades, executions and entertainment, as well as the centre for buying and selling for hundreds of miles around.
You will have more time at the end of the tour to explore Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech - Gorge du Dades
We will head out of the city this morning drive over the high Atlas mountains and through the Tizi-n-Tichka pass stopping at Ait Benhaddou. The Kasbah here is famous from the filming of "Lawrence of Arabia" and you will also find a small Berber settlement with a stunning Kasbah, which is now a World Heritage Site. Having explored for a few hours we jump back in the truck and head for Gorge du Dades where we will spend the night.
Day 3: Gorge du Dades - Sahara Desert Trek
We cross the Jbel Sarhro before heading down to the Erg Chebbi sand dunes near Merzouga. We pass through Erfoud on the way to Rissani and the gateway to the Sahara.
Day 4: Sahara Desert Trek
The morning will be spent in Risani, relaxing by the pool. From here we will prepare to head out in to the desert in the late afternoon on camels to enjoy a night under the Saharan stars that will never be forgotten. The Camel ride lasts several hours making arrival at our camp all the more welcome. Here we will enjoy a real traditional Berber camp with local food and do some dune boarding
Continuing the historic theme of yesterday, we head then for the old city of Fes and, more specifically, the old Medina. A local guide (for you will need one) will show us through the labyrinth of alleyways to reveal the various "Souks" or markets dedicated to the different trades of the people that populate this amazing centre of production and craftsmanship. After a day exploring the dye-pits, tanneries and restaurants, we return to camp to get ready for a night of first class Moroccan entertainment and food at a restaurant in town.
Day 5: Sahara Camp - Todra Gorge
Starts with our return Camel trek to Merzouga to pick up the truck and head off to Todra Gorge. Once we arrive at Todra Gorge we will settle in and relax for the afternoon, ready for an active day tomorrow. Todra Gorge is an incredible abyss separates the High Atlas range of mountains from the Jbel Sahro and is the same kind of geographical accident, but on a smaller scale, as the Grand Canyon. This is a beautiful place to spend a few nights.
Today will be spent exploring this majestic gorge with walls soaring over 300 metres skyward, the red cliffs and the brilliant blue sky form an awe-inspiring scene. We will take in the spectacular scenery and the charm of Todra which lies in it's changing moods and colours as the sun slowly treks from east to west. Perhaps going trekking through the palmeries or up the Gorge into the mountains. Alternatively you could just kick back and relax for the day, maybe do a bit of swimming. Spend a second night in the gorge where the local hoteliers have constructed huge Berber tents and provide authentic Moroccan dishes for those of us wishing to experience some of the local lifestyle.
Day 6: Todra Gorge - Marrakech
This morning you will leave the beautiful Todra gorge and spent most of the day on the truck traversing the High Atlas mountains and their stunning beauty. In the early evening you will arrive in Marrakech.
Day 7: Marrakech
We will visit Marrakech at the end of the tour. Watching as the sun sets, it casts a beautiful crimson light over the city and before we know it, the famous Djemaa el-Fna square burst into life. We head into Marrakech for a guided tour of the main square and surrounding area before having some free time to explore for ourselves. Just walk around and soak up the atmosphere, sample some of the food from the hundreds of open-air food stalls, watch jugglers, the Berber acrobats, magicians and snake charmers. It is very high on the list of spectacles not to be missed. With this flurry of colour, sound and smells your tour reaches its end. Preparing to leave this magical country behind you take with you some wonderful memories that will remain with you forever.
On the last night of the tour you will experience Marrakech by night and see the colour and vibrancy of Place Djemaa el - Fna, and the main square.
Day 8: Marrakech
Your tour finishes after breakfast on day 8. You are now free to continue your travels or return home, hopefully feeling that you have experienced a little of the wonder of Morocco.
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Departs: Marrakech.
- Accommodation: 2 nights camping (1 night Berber camp) and 5 nights hotels.
- Price (May & Jun): 329.00 GBP (869.00 AUD)
- Price (July to Oct): 339.00 GBP (899.00 AUD)
- Local Payment: 205 Euros, includes all accommodation, 3 meals per day and all guided tours during your trip.
| Morocco Tour 8 Day | Brochure Price | Our Price |
| Standard | £329.00 | £329.00 |
| Student (ISIC/ISE card) | £329.00 | £329.00 |
Book Here!
Joining PointsJoining Points
Meet your Tour Leader in the hotel reception at 6pm on day 1 of the tour. The Local Payment needs to be paid to the Guide on the first night. This payment is essentially your "food kitty", but also covers the cost of accommodation (hotels and campsite fees), guided tours in Volubilis and Fes and the Camel Trek (on the 15 day tour). Payment can be in British Pounds, Euros or US dollars. Please no Scottish bank notes - while they are legal tender, they not easy to change in Morocco.
Please Note: Morocco is 2 HOURS BEHIND Spanish time during the summer - you GAIN two hours crossing from Spain to Morocco, but LOSE two hours when returning to Spain.
Tangier
Joining Point - Tarik Hotel
Route de Malabata Tangier Morocco
The Hotel Tarik, located on the waterfront, is the joining point for the tour. You will be staying here for your first night and your room will have been pre-booked, sharing in large triple rooms. The hotel has a pool and a good bar.
and fly to Tangier.
Directions:
From the Airport, you can take a "grande taxi" to the Hotel Tarik - approx 200DH, maximum 4 share.
From the Port, make your way to the office of Marco Polo Travel. The office is about 150m from the port gates and they will will arrange a free taxi to take you to the Hotel Tarik. Walk straight out of port, turn right at bus station, then left onto the main street - you will find Marco Polo on the right-hand side.
Marrakech
Joining Point - Hotel Ali
Rue Moulay Ismail Marrakech Morocco
Located in the heart of the city, Hotel Ali Marrakech is adjacent to the world famous Djemaa El Fna in the Marrakech medina.
fly to Marrakech from London and Madrid.
Directions: You should agree a price with a licensed petit taxi to take you to your accommodation - these can be shared by upto 3 people and should cost about 90 dirham (£6) for the taxi divided by the number of people in the taxi. This cost will be re-imbursed to you at the Hotel.
Further InformationFurther Information
Bring yourself, your rucksack and a sheet to sleep in. All camping equipment is provided, including the tent, camp bed, blankets (not sheets), cooking equipment, water and food. As this is an overland style tour, passengers get to participate in the setting up of the tents of an evening, as well as the preparation of meals. The cost of accommodation is included in the local payment that you make at the start of the tour.
A valid passport is essential. Visas are not required for UK, Australian, NZ, Canadian, EU and US passport holders, but South Africans and some Asian, South American and Eastern European citizens may need a visa to travel to Morocco and should check with their local Moroccan embassy or visa office before departure.
Travel insurance is mandatory for travel with Nomadic Expeditions.
Standard travelling vaccination cover should be sufficient - speak to your GP for before departure for advice on vaccinations.
Nomadic Expeditions, who operate the tour, require the following information:
Email to info@nomadic.co.uk
- Full name (as written in your passport)
- Tour booked (8 Day or 15 Day Adventure)
- Tour departure Date
- Your Busabout Reference Number
- Email address
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Passport expiry date
Please visit the Nomadic Expeditions website for more details on these tours.
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