Imperial Splendor of Morocco. Escape to Sahara Desert

Marrakesh, Morocco

ST
Safarika Travel
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58 reviews
Oct 10 - 19, 2024
Group size: 8 - 12
Imperial Splendor of Morocco. Escape to Sahara Desert
Marrakesh, Morocco

Safarika Travel
  • Email address verified
  • Facebook verified
58 reviews

Oct 10 - 19, 2024
Group size: 8 - 12

About this trip

 * The day-by-day itinerary of this trip is currently in work, and will be updated shortly *


Embark on a journey of discovery through the enchanting country of MOROCCO, where nature, ancient history, architecture, vibrant culture, and traditions converge in a mesmerizing blend! 🇲🇦🌟🏝


Experience the ULTIMATE COMFORT during your stay in Morocco at premium-class hotels along the way and a night at the luxury desert camp in the middle of nowhere...


Imagine GLAMPING in the heart of the desert with exceptional service fit for Kings! 👑

Relax in a spacious lavish dome furnished with comfortable beds, soft linens, traditional decor, and delicious Moroccan cuisine.  Stargaze around a cozy bonfire while sipping on mint tea for an unforgettable experience!


This trip is a GREAT OPPORTUNITY to discover the beauty of Morocco, where you can explore vibrant cities, beautiful nature, and learn about the rich historical heritage, indulge in delicious food, and experience the warm hospitality of local people!


With so much to explore, here are just a few highlights of the tour that will allow you to experience the magic of Morocco: 


HIGHLIGHTS:

🐪 Start in Marrakech, the Red City, and explore its vibrant markets and bustling streets

🐪 Take an optional day hike in the Atlas Mountains. followed by home-made lunch at the Berber family

🐪 Escape to the Sahara desert: experience sunset and sunrise on a camelback

🐪 Spend a night under the stars with the exceptional comfort of a Luxury desert camp 

🐪 Enjoy the delicious Moroccan cuisine 

🐪 Experience Moroccan hospitality: meet locals, learn about their traditions, lifestyle, arts and crafts 

🐪  Go local: experience a Moroccan cooking class, a pottery workshop, and a Hammam visit!

🐪 Visit Quarzazate, the backdrop for the famous movies: Kingdom of Heaven, Gladiator, Babel, and The Game of Thrones

🐪 Get lost in the all shades of blue in Chefchauen, the Blue city and the gem of Morocco

🐪 Explore traditional arts and crafts in the ancient imperial city of Fes 

🐪 Travel to the Straight of Gibraltar, the city of Tangier the crossroads of Africa and Europe

🐪 From the capital of Morocco- Rabat, travel to Casablanca, finishing your adventure on the beaches of the Atlantic coast


In conclusion, with the guidance of our knowledgeable and fun local guide, this tour will take you on an adventure of a lifetime! 🌟

Trip Cancellations Policy

If the trip is canceled by the Participant due to any personal reason, the following penalties will be applied: 

Cancellation outside of 91 calendar days before departure - registration deposit is fully REFUNDABLE

Cancellation 90 to 45 days before departure - registration deposit is non-refundable but can be transferrable to another participant 

Cancellation 44 to 0 calendar days before departure – up to 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable

Things you need to know before visiting

 WEATHER

October is one of the best months to visit Morocco, as temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. This is a great month for hiking in the mountains and visiting the Atlantic coast. Expect an average of 68 F in the daytime and close to 50 F most nights. 

The average temperature in Marrakesh and desert areas in October for a typical day ranges from a high of 84°F (29°C) to a low of 59°F (15°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze.


WHAT TO PACK

DRESS CODE. General suggestions:

Morocco is very tolerant and welcoming to visitors; you’re not expected to act or look exactly like a local. You can wear whatever is familiar and comfortable to you. However, it’s always a good idea for both men and women to avoid revealing clothing or shorts, especially in rural areas. For women, it's recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and knees; consider bringing a scarf or shawl. 


Windbreaker jacket or lightweight puffy vest for evenings and mornings

Fleece sweater or hoodie

Hiking pants or trainers

Comfortable outfit for tours and city walks that keeps you cool during the day

Sunglasses

Sunhat

Shoes: you may need both sandals, comfortable closed-toe shoes & trekking shoes for hiking days

Change of loose T-shirts 

Long sleeve loose shirt or tunica

Warm comfy pajamas for overnight in the desert

A scarf or shawl (for women)

A day-pack (for tours and hikes)

Reusable water bottle (1-1.5L)

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Lip balm with UV protection

Eye drops (air in the desert can be too dry)

Your personal first aid kit (personal medications, Imodium or similar, motion sickness (Dramamine), band-aid, etc.

If you bring a photo camera: a charger and extra memory cards


MONEY & CURRENCY

The Moroccan Dirham (1 USD = 10 MAD)

You can exchange money in a bank (8:30-15:45 Mon-Fri), “bureau de change” (open till late), or at the front desk of your hotel.

There is no commission and you will be issued a receipt which you must keep to exchange any Moroccan currency left at the end of your visit back into foreign currency.

Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs in larger towns. If you plan to go to the countryside make sure you have enough cash for your trip. 

We recommend exchanging cash in Marrakesh; the equivalent of $500 USD will be enough for the trip. 

You may take a maximum of 1000 dh out of Morocco but anything exceeding that must be reconverted at the airport prior to departure.


CREDIT CARDS

All major credit cards are widely accepted in the main cities and towns: VISA, MASTERCARD... although their use often incurs a commission of 5%.

Most restaurants accept credit cards, In the Souks (marketplace) it's imperative to pay with cash, mostly in the Moroccan currency (Dirham), but occasionally Euros are accepted.


TIPPING

Tipping is welcomed but remains up to you according to how well you have been served. 

We also usually tip local guides and drivers (suggested $5/day for guide, $3/day driver per traveler). In restaurants and bars, the tip is around 10%. 


ELECTRICITY

The electrical output in Morocco is 220V, European style sockets (2 holes in the power outlet)


CELLPHONE RECEPTION & Wi-Fi

Using free Wi-Fi hotspots in your hotel, our vehicles, or in other establishments such as cafes, bars, and restaurants, is a great way to keep connected. Make sure your phone settings are on Wi-Fi instead of your home network, otherwise, you may still be charged. 

The local SIM card is also available for purchase, make sure your phone is unlocked.

WiFi is available everywhere on our itinerary

Cellphone connection is limited or can be partially not available in rural areas


SAFETY

The crime rates are low in Morocco but pick-pocketing and minor theft is very common. 

Look after your belongings at all times and don’t show valuables. 

Avoid poorly lit areas, don't travel alone at night

Be on the lookout for scammers: very friendly-looking street helpers who promise to charge you “nothing” for their “generosity” in guiding you or showing you directions. 


WATER

Tap water is safe for brushing teeth. Use bottled water for drinking. 

Stay hydrated.

We recommend that you have your meals in reliable restaurants and avoid street food, please


PUBLIC RESTROOMS

Be ready for squat toilets outside of hotels, and bring paper tissues with you as locals use water instead of toilet paper for self-hygiene 


RIDING A CAB

“Petit taxis” are small cabs that take a maximum of 3 passengers and are ideal for short journeys within the city. They use meters but often prefer to set a price for the journey which you should agree to before getting in the car. An average fare for a one-way journey is between 50 dhs in the daytime to 100 after 8:00 pm. 


TAKING PICTURES OF LOCALS

It is prohibited to take pictures of the police, soldiers, and military installations. If you are 

taking photos of people, please ask them first. Some people, such as performers and snake charmers, will ask you for a tip. if you take their picture. About 20 dhs is the usual tip in these cases. 


SHOPPING 

The rule of thumb - is always to bargain, it’s a part of Moroccan culture.

Bargaining while shopping is a way of life in Morocco and can be an enjoyable experience

If you are using your credit card, and shipping your purchase, make sure you are doing this in a reliable shop and insist on having an invoice as well as the accurate address and contact of the establishment. 

In the Souks (marketplace) it's imperative to pay with cash, mostly in the Moroccan currency (Dirham), but occasionally Euros are accepted.

What’s included

  • Upscale Lodging
    Premium-class hotels in the cities
  • Ground Transportation
    Comfortable van with AC and WiFi
  • Assistance
    Knowledgeable english-speaking local guide
  • All tours and admissions
    All admission tkts to historic sites
  • Meals
    Breakfasts in hotels, Full board in the Desert Camp
  • All activities
    all activities mentioned in itinerary except for optional ones
  • Luxury Desert Camp
    2 nights at Luxury Domes or ensuites, with exceptional comfort and PRIVATE facilities (AC, hot shower, flushing toilet in the rooms)

What’s not included

  • International flights
    On average $800-1200 USD round trip from SFO
  • Optional activities
    Quad rental in the desert , SPA & Hammam visits,
  • Meals
    lunches and dinners in towns (where not inlcuded, allow $30USD per meal in an upscale restaurant in the cities)
  • Tips
    Optional. Suggested $5 USD/day (guide), $3 USD (driver) per traveler

Available Packages

Early Bird
Available until July 31, 20246 left
$3,800
Deposit: $600
Count Me In!
6 left
$3,950
Deposit: $1,000

Available options

Your Organizer


ST
Safarika Travel
58 reviews
Safarika Adventure Club (Safarika Travel Inc.) was founded in Los Angeles (CA) in the year 2013. Legal travel provider on the territory of United States (California Seller of Travel License # 2112795-40) since 2013. Founder & CEO - Karina Safari, professional adventure travel organizer and team leader since 2011. Specialization: in small group hiking trips in South America and beyond, as well as private eco-adventures for families.

Reviews

Had an amazing time on a trip! Great and busy itinerary and we managed to see a lot of things in a short period of time. Thank you for organizers for making it smooth and interesting!
By Anna R for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 12, 2024
SC
What an amazing experience! I was eager to visit Patagonia, knew it'd be great and had quite high expectations for it - but all these expectations were exceeded with a huge margin. Where to start? Hikes with breathtaking views around El Chalten and El Calafate (by far the most beautiful places I've even been), rugged beauty of Terra del Fuego, vibes of Buenos Aires - this is something that'll be remembered for life. Another thing worth noting is flawless organization of the trip, and the care we got from Karina and our tour lead Masha. We've never had to worry about transportation, accommodation or any other logistics and could fully focus on experiencing the beauties around. Last but not the least, as already noted in another review, we started as a group of strangers and ended as a group of friends for life. Karina and Masha - thank you for an amazing and very well-organized trip and for one of the best experiences in my life!
By Sergey C for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 07, 2024
MS
Amazing trip! Spotless organization and communication, Spanish speaking guide who has become our dearest friend. This trip has started as a group of starangers and ended by a group of friends for life. The trip itself consisted of a perfect combination of moderate-to-challenging physical activity amid unimaginable scenery of southern Argentina, where no day was like any other. Thank you Karina for exceptionally well researched and organized trip.
By Misha S for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 06, 2024
Patagonia trip was an unforgettable experience. Great people, stunning views, excellent food and convenient lodging. Everything was organized extremely well, and our team leader Masha went above and beyond taking care of all logistics, so all that was left for us was relax and enjoy Argentina. Highly recommended!
By Roman B for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 06, 2024
Morocco trip was one of the best trips I've ever had! I got everything I dreamed of and even more. The trip was organized in a way that we didn't have to worry about anything. We stayed in great hotels, tried authentic delicious food in fancy restaurants, the local guide showed us the most beautiful places. Thank you, Karina, for helping us to see and feel this beautiful country!
By IRINA L for All colors of Morocco. Escape to Sahara Desert on Nov 13, 2023
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References

YM
One of the best trips I've done! I am mainly either a solo traveler or prefer to go with my family But 4 days hiking trip to Montana Glacier NP has changed my preferences :) Thank you very much, it's been a pleasure and FUN Met so many interesting intelligent people, would highly recommend if you enjoy active vacations
By Yelena M on 10 Sep, 2020
GL
I traveled with Karina to Patagonia in 2020 and it was awesome! Perfect planning & organization throughout the trip, including dealing with the unexpected (e.g. lost luggage). I really liked other folks in the group and made several new friends in this trip. I highly recommend Karina's trips to casual and semi-serious hikers, and plan to be a return customer myself.
By Grigory L on 14 Mar, 2020
Thank you, Karina, for a wonderful first time experience of active adventure trip! Everything is well thought and organized. Would recommend to anyone!
By Aizhan T on 20 Jun, 2019