At a Glance
![](https://onlyluxetravel.com/pub/media/wysiwyg/Morocco/atlas-mountain-village-draa-valley.jpeg)
Discover the magic of Northern Africa on a fascinating 6-day journey hiking through Morocco’s spectacular High Atlas Mountains and the bustling city of Marrakech. Savour the exotic tastes of Moroccan and French cuisine, experience traditional life and culture and embrace picturesque scenery as you hike at your own pace and uncover untouched treasures.
Your exciting journey starts and ends in Marrakech, a charming city full of history and tradition. Embark on a 4WD adventure and tap into the alluring cultures of Morocco from village life of Tamesloht and its olive oil production to the intricate carvings of a typical Moroccan ‘riad’. Delve deep into its wonders as you hike to a village that is only accessible on foot and engage in a traditional Moroccan community. Be immersed into the exotic delights ...
Trip Highlights
|
|
What's Included
- 5 nights accommodation in picturesque hotels on a twin share basis
- Private guided tours at sightseeing, attractions and activities as stated in the itinerary
- Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
- All meals as specified
- Baggage transfers and porterage
- Park and other entry fees
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average with additional guides and experts from the region
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
- Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
![]() |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: At 930am you’ll meet your tour leaders at Marrakech Train station main entrance. Make sure you are dressed in your hiking attire, bring your luggage and all other hiking gear you may want for today’s adventure (your luggage will be transferred to your first night’s hotel). Leave the city behind and journey on 4x4 vehicles to Tamesloh to discover a 16th century little farm village known for its olive groves and olive oil production. Visit a holy sight (‘zaouia’) and marvel at how life continues as it has for centuries – a reminder that Morocco is still unsophisticated in so many ways, albeit rich in tradition and culture. Delve deeper into cultural immersion as you uncover a typical Moroccan ‘riad’ (residence) and meet Moulay Hafid and his family (The term ‘Moulay’ is the honour given to descendants of the Prophet Mohammed.). Sip on Moroccan tea, revel at intricate carvings of his home and find connection as you gain insight into local life, traditions and culture. Journey to Ouchfil for a Berber picnic and savour local specialties with spectacular views of the valley and Atlas Mountains surrounding you. Enjoy a pleasant scenic walk into the canyon giving sweeping views of the serene N’Fiss river and Atlas Mountains as local friends bring the walk to life. |
|
![]() |
You’ll stay at Domaine de la Roseraie, idyllically nestled with tranquil mountains as its backdrop. A great haven to unwind, relax in your Moroccan styled rooms complete with a private bathroom. This evening, stroll along the rose garden pathway lined with candles and flaming torches to the hotel restaurant to savour delectable Moroccan or French dishes accompanied by local singing, drumming and dancing.
|
![]() |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Enjoy a delightful breakfast before a Land Rover journey deep into the High Atlas for an up-close encounter with traditional Berber culture. Marvel at how the village have largely assimilated into Arab culture yet maintain many of their own distinct dialects and customs. Admire the picturesque perched village of Tirfistl before journeying across a river, gardens and olive groves to the narrow alleyed path of a hidden village behind Toubkal, the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains. Be captivated by sweeping views of the broad river valley, crosshatched with irrigation canals, against a backdrop of the blue-gray hills to the east. Collide with donkeys, goats and pedestrians as we make our way from one sunbaked earthen village to the next. Follow a path uphill to a colorful settlement of adobe buildings where we're welcomed into the home of a Berber family. Reclining on cushions, sip mint tea before sharing a traditional lunch of homemade tagine (a Moroccan stew) boasting of couscous, freshly baked bread and locally grown nuts and olives. Your return journey, take in more sweeping views of jagged snowcapped crests, clustered hamlets on steep slopes and an agricultural mosaic of wheat, clover and onion fields. Tonight, be treated to traditional music and dance before an intimate dining affair in the tranquil courtyard. |
![]() |
Level 1, Approx. 5km (3 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 396m (1300 ft) The early risers can enjoy a walk through villages passing olive groves and lush gardens and rivers. Alternatively, enjoy sleeping in and indulge in a leisurely breakfast. Today we leave the mountains behind and head toward the coast. Whether it's the foothills of the Atlas Mountains or the windswept plains near the coast, there's a stark beauty to the landscape of Morocco. Taken at face value, the scenery might initially seem empty or monotonous because the colors are often the same—a series of earthy tones. But look closer. There's variation that's subtle but significant. An expansiveness so stunning that it's vibrant and alive. As we make our way toward the Atlantic, you'll begin to see and feel a distinct change in the environment. The rolling hills and whitewashed houses are a stark contrast to the jagged peaks and earth-toned adobe buildings we've left behind. Along the way we stop for a wine tasting and lunch at Val d'Argan. Cap off an incredible day at Essaouira, originally a Portuguese fortress by the name of Mogador, which translates to ‘The Prince’s City’. Essaouira's well-preserved medina, or ancient Arab city, has been a World Heritage site since 2001. We head out on a guided sunset stroll within Essaouira's crenellated ramparts, revealing narrow streets full of white homes trimmed with cheery blue doors and window frames. Once a favored hangout of Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens, this city has a wonderfully easygoing feel, which you'll discover as we amble from the cannon-studded city walls to the quayside. Meander its narrow streets to find hidden treasures including stunning cafes, exquisite oven carpets. Hand crafted jewelry and art galleries. |
|
![]() |
You’ll stay at the palatial Relais & Chateaux property of L’Heure Bleue Palais. Embracing a historic ‘riad’ indulge in luxurious facilities with a dip in its rooftop pool overlooking serene city and sea views or rejuvenate in a ‘hammam’, traditional bathhouse. Tonight, delight your tastebuds to a lavish dining affair of Moroccan delights.
|
![]() |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: This morning drive for an hour out of Essaouira to delve deep into the spectacular scenery in the region. Head out on foot across undulating terrain speckled with wheat fields and olive groves. Chance upon wildlife from camels to goats shading themselves underneath one of the trees. Enjoy views of the coast before hiking into a canyon to a hilltop village with a koranic school overlooking the canyon. Enjoy a beachfront lunch at the L’Ocean Vagabond before exploring more of the secrets and delights of Essaouria. Rub shoulders with locals and meander its alleyways scouring several stunning markets and stores that offer a variety from traditional souvenirs to exotic spices. This ancient town is a treasure trove for photographers, with women in traditional dress rubbing shoulders with barely clad sun lovers who’ve come to enjoy the beach and the sea. Engage in a temporary henna tattoo, a traditional slice of Moroccan style before retiring back at your hotel. Unwind in your elegant guestroom or be pampered at the exclusive spa before being delighted to the old town’s lively marketplace for an unforgettable traditional meal. |
![]() |
Level 1, Approx. 4.8km (3 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 122m (400 ft) This morning you travel southwards from Essaouira to experience a spectacular hike along the coast on the Ouassane Peninsula. You’ll pass a hidden gem, the secret surfing haven of La Grotte, as well as endless golden sand dunes en route to your next adventure – camel riding! Climb onto an Arabian camel with just one hump and head off along the beach into the dunes. Or those who seek a more relaxed pace can forego the ride and simply soak up the sun and serenity on the beach. A 3 hour journey takes you back to Marrakech. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Les Jardins de la Villa Maroc, a magnificently restored old farm surrounded by a forest of coniferous trees called ‘thuya’ (pronounced ‘too-ya’). These argan trees are highly revered in Morocco. The tree nuts contain a unique amber-coloured oil that is known for its exceptional healing properties, and local craftsmen use the wood to carve exquisite boxes with complicated designs. You stop off to learn all about these trees and the products produced from the oil. You’ll taste argan oil, which is popular world-wide for its medicinal, cosmetic and nutritional properties. (It’s believed to heal scars, remove wrinkles and relieve rheumatic pain and is delicious sprinkled onto salad. You can also make a delicious breakfast with it called ‘amlou’, a mix of oil, almonds and honey.) |
|
![]() |
Then you transfer to the exceptional garden sanctuary, the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech for the night, situated close to the city centre. Here you can be pampered with superb luxury facilities – laze by the pool in the gorgeous 40-acre Moorish gardens, experience the ultimate in rejuvenation and relaxation at the Moroccan spa, or relax in your own spacious well-appointed Moroccan retreat with its private terrace offering exceptional views. This evening, indulge in a dining affair at the hotel’s exquisite dining room celebrating everything you have experienced on this one-of-a-kind Moroccan quest with unsurpassed Moroccan and international fare.
|
![]() |
Level 1, 5km (3 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Minimal elevation gain Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading off to the city’s energetic Medina, a World Heritage Site. Once an impressive cultural, economic and political centre in the Arab world, the Medina has many fascinating secrets to reveal, and you will experience many of these on your hour-long walking tour. These include a number of colourful marketplaces, where you can pick up a variety of fabulous souvenirs at a wide selection of stalls selling everything from perfumes and pottery to spices, jewelry, leather goods, carpets – you name it. Hopefully you’ll get carried away with the noise and the atmosphere and bargain for some wares. Another highlight in the Medina is the incredible Peruse Jemaa el Fna, which translates to ‘Place of the Dead’. Situated in the medina’s central square, it’s filled with otherworldly snake charmers, musicians, storytellers, soothsayers, scribes and herbalists offering their wares – so have your camera ready. Your last excursion is a guided tour of the Dari Si Said Museum, the oldest in Marrakech and the city’s Museum of Moroccan Arts. Located in a vast palace, it’s full of ancient objects that tell the story of the city’s history. You’ll enjoy a light lunch on the museum terrace with stunning views of the medina. Leaving inspired shuttle to Marrakech Airport where you’ll bid farewell and embark on your onward journey. NOTE:This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Marrakech
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Marrakech. The closest major airport to Marrakech
Menara Airport which is 8 km from the center of Marrakesh.
Summers along the Ligurian coast are warm and sunny during the day with cool evenings. In Tuscany, it's typically hot, with slightly higher daytime temperatures than you'll experience on the coast. In the early spring, both areas can be chilly, so extra layers are essential. Rain is possible year-round—don't forget to bring waterproof breathable rain gear. Your trip will be much more enjoyable if you come prepared for all types of weather.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.