Welcome to Morocco! Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and take included transportation to your beautiful riad, a traditional Moroccan home converted into a guesthouse, in the heart of the old medina.
Later this afternoon, go for an orientation walk in the old narrow streets of the medina then to the great square of Jemaa el Fna, one of the largest public spaces in the world and unique to Marrakech. Henna painters, performers, and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar packed with stalls loaded with Moroccan delicacies.
Enjoy the local cuisine during the opening dinner with your group.
After breakfast, start your morning with a guided walking tour of Marrakech. You will have the opportunity to visit the Bahia Palace and the Photography Museum as well.
After lunch, the rest of the day is free to explore further or shop in the bazaar. Perhaps visit the tropical gardens of the French painter Jacques Majorelle or check out the ruins of the Palais Badi, once one of the most beautiful palaces in the world.
This evening enjoy a home-cooked dinner with a local Moroccan family in their house in the old medina.
Today, make your way to the High Atlas Mountains with a stop in the town of Tahenouat. Experience Moroccan cuisine with a hands-on cooking class led by a private chef.
In the afternoon, hit the road to Imlil and hike to the village of Aroumd, which offers incredible views across the High Atlas Mountains and a unique opportunity to experience traditional Berber culture.
Spend the night in a family-run mountain guesthouse where you will enjoy a traditional dinner.
Enjoy breakfast, complete with a bread cooking demonstration, before taking an early morning walk around the village.
Spend the rest of the day making your way to Ouarzazate, considered Morocco's little Hollywood. Take the opportunity to visit the Kasbah Taourirt or the film studios.
Round off the day by relaxing at your hotel and enjoying dinner with your group.
Today, you will make your way to the desert of Merzouga, passing through Agdz, and the village of Nkob. You will see the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the world's iconic landscapes, with towering dunes up to 150 meters in height.
Upon arrival, drop off your luggage at camp then ride camels to the edge of the Sahara Desert, enjoying a spectacular sunset along the way.
Camp in a traditional desert camp and have the chance to try some local cuisine. Sit around an open fire, enjoy some live music, and dance under the stars.
Wake up early and enjoy another camel ride to experience the sunrise across the desert.
After breakfast, drive to Todra Gorge through Dades, which is a massive trench that rises over 800 feet to form one of the most dramatic and spectacular natural sights in Morocco. Upon arrival stretch your legs with a short walk through the canyon.
Continue your adventure by driving on the famous ‘Road of 1000 Kasbahs’ where you’ll stop at Skoura Oasis and Ait Benhaddou, one of Morocco's most iconic sites, and where the movies Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator were filmed.
Start your morning with a walk through the streets of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, making your way up to a beautiful hilltop view of the surrounding plains.
Head back to Marrakech passing through the beautiful High Atlas Mountains again. After relaxing a bit at your riad in Marrakech, head out for your final dinner at a local restaurant in the medina.
On the final day of our Moroccan adventure, wake up early to soak in the last morning in Marrakech together.
Enjoy some free time to explore the town or opt for an unforgettable hot air balloon experience overlooking the city of Marrakech.
Ask your Trip Leaders for suggestions if you choose to spend more time in Marrakech.
"I just returned from an unforgettable journey through Morocco, and I can confidently say it was a trip of a lifetime. From Tangier to the serene landscapes of the Sahara and the markets of Marrakech every moment was magical. Our trip leader, Youssef B., was absolutely fantastic. His deep knowledge of Moroccan culture and history brought every experience to life. He was not only organized and attentive but also made sure everyone felt included and engaged. His passion for his country was infectious, and he went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable experience. Traveling with a wonderful group added to the joy of the trip. We shared laughter, stories, and countless adventures, creating bonds that will last well beyond our time in Morocco." -Katherine H.
"My friend and I agree that this is the best vacation we have ever been on and the best travel company we have ever experienced. There was not one moment of disappointment and I literally laughed until it hurt. [Our trip leader] ensured that everything we did was effortless and enjoyable. The accommodations were stellar, the staff was local, the excursions were unforgettable, and the other travelers enhanced the experience tenfold. I can't say enough good things. If you are even slightly considering traveling with this family of amazing people, do it." -Ana A.
"I had an affordable trip of a lifetime thanks to U30X, made new great friends, and joined an expansive and powerful alumni network." -Colby R.