Self-guided cultural tour
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Free £150 National Trust gift card when you book by 17 September. Find out more.
This truly is an unforgettable adventure that combines breath-taking landscapes, vibrant culture, and the chance to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of history across mountains, desert and coast. Beginning in the Ochre City of Marrakech, known for its blend of tradition and modernity, Marrakech promises incomparable sensations as your guided tour leads you through the colourful Jemaa El-Fna square and into the maze of fragrant souks.
Leaving Marrakech, your private car transfer brings you to the small Berber village of Imlil where a guided moderate hike to Armed within the Atlas Mountains awaits. Journey through the enchanting landscapes of the Atlas, walking along winding mule tracks where you'll be rewarded with unmatched panorama across the tranquil valleys. After your hike, a delicious home-cooked lunch at a local family's guesthouse will be waiting for you. Engage in conversation and discover the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine, including how to bake bread and brew mint tea like a local.
Moving from the mountains to the desert, next on your Moroccan escape is an unforgettable stay in the Agafay Desert. Luxurious tents surround an outdoor swimming pool in this tranquil oasis with striking panoramic views all around. Professional chefs cater your lunch and dinner with traditional Moroccan and international cuisine. Settle in for the night, watching the sunset over the desert horizon.
Wave the desert goodbye as the coastal city of Essaouira welcomes you in with its cool sea breeze; this is were the ancient medina meets the wild Atlantic Ocean. We have included a local wine tasting here along with a guided city tour where you'll navigate the maze of market stalls and narrow streets. Your expert guide provides insights into local life within one of North Africa's most alluring destinations. We've also included a seafood market lunch in Essaouira where you select your fresh catch of the day and take it to a nearby restaurant for it be expertly grilled - a delightful meal! Return to Marrakech to enjoy dinner in a local restaurant on your last night in Morocco.
We have selected high-quality riads in both Marrakech and Essaouira. Within the Atlas Mountains, you will stay in a good quality, traditional Kasbah, and whilst in Agafay Desert, you'll stay in a luxurious tent, always with a private room and bathroom. Your luggage will be transported with you as you move between accommodations, leaving you free to discover all that this remarkable country has to offer.
Arrive at your luxurious riad in the heart of Marrakech Medina. Tonight, a delightful dinner awaits you at a nearby restaurant, where you can savour the flavours of Moroccan cuisine and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city.
You stay at Riad Cle d'or.
Riad Cle d'or, Marrakech
Nestled in the heart of the Medina, this riad is a haven of luxury and beauty. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of tranquillity that sets the stage for a wonderful stay. The rooms and suites are meticulously designed, where every detail has been carefully curated to ensure your utmost comfort.
Indulge in a gastronomic experience at their restaurant with the rich flavours of Moroccan cuisine. Skilled chefs create exquisite dishes using the finest local ingredients, ensuring each bite is a celebration of Moroccan culture and culinary artistry. Enjoy the rooftop bar with panoramic views of Marrakech as you unwind in a blissful setting. Bask in the warmth of the sun or admire the starry sky as you enjoy a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool.
There is also an onsite spa and hammam where you can immerse yourself in the centuries-old tradition of Moroccan wellness rituals. This hotel is a hidden gem amongst the noise of Marrakech.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
After breakfast, you'll embark on a morning guided tour through the streets of Marrakech, soaking up the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Your journey will include a visit to the majestic Bahia Palace, where you'll marvel at its intricate architecture and lush gardens. Next, you'll explore the bustling atmosphere of Jamaa el Fna square, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of this lively marketplace.
From there, you'll head towards the breath-taking Atlas Mountains, specifically to Imlil (approx. 2.5hrs), where the rugged beauty of the landscape awaits. Your accommodation for the night will be at Kasbah du Toubkal or a similar accommodation, nestled amidst the stunning scenery of the Atlas Mountains, offering a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration.
You stay at Kasbah du Toubkal.
Kasbah du Toubkal, Imlil
Kasbah du Toubkal is the first choice accommodation in the village of Imlil and the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The Kasbah at 1,820m high is set on a hilltop 100m above our reception in Imlil, just a 15-minute uphill walk (mules carry your luggage). The Kasbah is within in the Toubkal National Park and set dramatically below the towering flanks of Jbel Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa standing at 4,167m.
The Kasbah houses 14 comfortable en-suite rooms, three of which are family rooms. The delightful garden and large terraces offer unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. The friendly and knowledgeable local Berber team will make every effort to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as it can be.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
After breakfast, you'll meet with your local guide for a moderate hike to Armed, giving you the opportunity to explore the area and interact with the locals, gaining insights into their way of life.
Following the hike, you'll enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch at a local family's guesthouse, where you can engage in conversation and discover the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine, including how to bake bread and brew tea like a local. Afterwards, return to your accommodation for a leisurely afternoon, free to unwind as you please.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before departing from the Atlas Mountains and heading for the rocky desert of Agafay (approx. 2.hrs). Upon arrival, immerse yourself in this unique landscape, taking advantage of your delightful camp for the night with it's outdoor swimming pool.
For lunch and dinner, a la carte or set menu, Moroccan and international gastronomic cuisine will be offered to you by professional chefs. As the day draws to a close, settle into your premium tent at this distinctive desert camp for an unforgettable overnight stay.
You stay at The Pearl Camp.
The Pearl Camp , Agafay Desert
These luxurious tents are traditionally Moroccan with Berber carpets and refined decoration, all with a unique view of the Atlas mountains and the Agafay desert. Each tent meets the standards of luxury accommodation, each one has a private terrace, and private bathroom.
Located on top of a dune and decorated in a refined Moroccan style, their restaurant is a unique place with a panoramic view of the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert. For lunch and dinner, à la carte or set menu, Moroccan and international gastronomic cuisine will be offered to you by our professional chefs.
Relax away from the noise, pollution and stress of the city while enjoying the fresh air and absolute calm. Guests can also enjoy the delightful outdoor swimming pool.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Transfer from Agafay Desert towards the enchanting city of Essaouira (approx. 3.5hrs), known as the Wind City. Along the journey, pause for a delightful wine tasting experience paired with lunch.
Afterwards, proceed to your accommodation and settle in. The afternoon is yours to explore the lively streets of Essaouira at your leisure, or perhaps you might opt to visit one of the seaside restaurants for a refreshing sunset drink overlooking the ocean.
You stay at Riad Dar L'Oussia & SPA.
Riad Dar L'Oussia & SPA, Essaouira
This charming riad is located right next to the beach, with panoramic views of the sea, the port and the Medina. Their traditional spa offers guests a hammam and spa treatments. The traditionally-decorated rooms at Riad Dar L'Oussia & SPA are all situated around the central courtyard and are equipped with under-floor heating. The riad also has a restaurant which serves typical cuisine. Guests can eat inside by the fireplace or on the sunny terrace in the warmer months.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
After breakfast, immerse yourself in the laid-back ambiance of Essaouira with a guided city tour. Navigate through the maze of market stalls and narrow streets as your local guide provides insights into local life in one of North Africa's most alluring destinations.
Explore the vibrant harbour brimming with colourful boats and venture into the bustling fish souk. Here, select your fresh catch of the day and take it to a nearby restaurant, where it will be expertly grilled for a delightful meal. Your guide will also accompany you to the fresh vegetable markets, where you can choose salads and veggies to accompany your seafood lunch. The rest of the day is yours to further discover the charms of Essaouira.
Depart from Essaouira and return to Marrakech (approx. 3hrs); your afternoon is at leisure to explore more of Marrakech. You may want to return to the medina to browse for souvenirs and showcase your bargaining skills.
For your last evening, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant where you can reminisce about the wonderful moments you've experienced during your time here, bidding adieu to Morocco with fond memories.
You stay at Riad Cle d'or.
Riad Cle d'or, Marrakech
Nestled in the heart of the Medina, this riad is a haven of luxury and beauty. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of tranquillity that sets the stage for a wonderful stay. The rooms and suites are meticulously designed, where every detail has been carefully curated to ensure your utmost comfort.
Indulge in a gastronomic experience at their restaurant with the rich flavours of Moroccan cuisine. Skilled chefs create exquisite dishes using the finest local ingredients, ensuring each bite is a celebration of Moroccan culture and culinary artistry. Enjoy the rooftop bar with panoramic views of Marrakech as you unwind in a blissful setting. Bask in the warmth of the sun or admire the starry sky as you enjoy a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool.
There is also an onsite spa and hammam where you can immerse yourself in the centuries-old tradition of Moroccan wellness rituals. This hotel is a hidden gem amongst the noise of Marrakech.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Depart from Marrakech airport for your flight home.
Show prices including flights?
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £720.
These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £720.
Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.
Air prices include our standard flights/transfers
Out: EasyJet London Gatwick to Marrakech, then private car transfer to Marrakech hotel (approx. 15mins - included).
Return: Private car transfer Marrakech hotel to Marrakech airport (approx. 15mins - included), then EasyJet Marrakech to London Gatwick.
Extra legroom seats are available on request.
Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).
To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199, use our live webchat (we open again 9am Monday) or email sales@headwater.com
Should you require overnight airport accommodation, airport parking or even a uniformed chauffeur to take your car from your departure terminal and park it for you, we can arrange this for you through Holiday Extras. You can book airport parking, airport hotels and executive lounges through their website or contact us for further details. Early booking is recommended to obtain the best availability and prices.
Self-guided cultural tour
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel