Trips & Tours: Marrakech, High Atlas & Essaouira

The tour starts today in Marrakech. In the early evening our local representative will be available to meet and brief you on arrangements and logistics for the forthcoming trip.
 

With a wide range of attractions in Marrakech, today is completely at leisure. For first time visitors, a great way of getting to grips with this magical city is to perhaps hire an informative city guide and take a walking tour of some of the major attractions such as the Koutoubia Mosque and Minaret, the medieval square of Djemma el Fna, and the Saadien Tombs. You can of course tailor a walking tour to suit your interests. A choice of optional experiences are also available including a scenic balloon flight.
 

Clearly visible from Marrakech, and snow-capped during winter months, the peaks of the High Atlas are little over a 1 hour drive from the city centre. As we head deeper into the mountains, North Africa's highest peak, Jebel Toubkal, comes into view. We reach the typical Berber village of Imlil, start point of many trekking circuits which weave through remote Atlas landscapes, pass mountain-hugging villages, orchards and streams. At Imlil we follow a mule path up to the dramatically situated Kasbah du Toubkal - our base for the next two nights. Once at Kasbah du Toubkal, day treks and strolls can be organised, accompanied by a local Berber mountain guide.
 

A choice of walks is available today or you could simply relax in the comfort of the Kasbah, enjoying breathtaking views and fresh mountain air. The High Atlas is perhaps the most beautiful and intriguing region of Morocco. With a way of life that has changed little for centuries, the High Atlas contains numerous small villages inhabited by the hardy Berber people. Regardless of levels of fitness, this area is accessible to all. From a short walk through villages that surround the Kasbah, to more demanding 6 to 7 hour day walks, the options are many.
 

From Kasbah du Toubkal we return to our awaiting vehicle to make the half day drive (approx 4.5 to 5 hours) to the old Portuguese stronghold of Essaouira. Despite seeing an increase in visitors over the years, this town remains one of Morocco's best-kept secrets. Complete with an historical heart, surrounded by ancient city walls, Essaouira is a delightful place to unwind and relax for a couple of days. The medina has several old historic buildings now converted into atmospheric accommodation only a short walk from fabulous seafood restaurants, bustling souks and an impressive sandy beach.
 

Today you are free to explore the atmospheric alleyways of the ancient medina, and the old ochre ramparts which now provide protection from the wind-assisted waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Other local attractions include the Sidi Med Ben Abdallah Museum, the medina and old city gates of Essaouira, and the impressive sqalas (fortified sea bastions). You could round your evening off with a glass or two of chilled wine whilst watching the setting sun over the Atlantic. For those that fancy trying their hand at water-based activities, the town has a reputation as a fine place for kite and windsurfing.
 

Today we drive back to Marrakech. The rest of your day is free for further independent sightseeing in Marrakech. You could perhaps enjoy a scrub-up and massage in a local hammam, take in a local 'Arabian Nights' evening performance or enjoy a meal in one of the local restaurants overlooking the atmospheric Djemma el Fna.
 

Services end upon check out from your accommodation in Marrakech.