From CAD $1,480
Guarantee
Small Group
Easy
Rating
(10 reviews)
Experience Overview
From the foothills of the Atlas Mountains to the windswept Atlantic Coast, our 8-day walking tour covers Morocco's most breathtaking landscapes. Experience life in the High Atlas, sitting down to lunch with a Berber family, trekking in Toubkal National Park and through the oasis gardens of the Afensou Valley. Wind up on the coast, in Essaouira, with its seafront ramparts, labyrinthine medina and picturesque seafront. Bookended by nights in Marrakech - and with plenty of fragrant tagine and mint tea along the way - this walking adventure captures the true spirit and diversity of Morocco.
Hike in the Atlas Mountains - Leave the world behind in the High Atlas, where we trek though dramatic valleys and Toubkal National Park.
Marrakech and Essaouira - Explore the medinas, souks and sites of two of Morrocco's most iconic cities.
Experience Berber hospitality - Immerse yourself in the ways of the Berber communities that call the Atlas home.
Highlights
- A week long walking trip combining the foothills of the High Atlas with the Atlantic Coast|Unwind in the charming coastal town of Essaouira with its lively historic medina|Trek through mountain-side villages and deserted stretches of coastline on the Atlantic
- A week long walking trip combining the foothills of the High Atlas with the Atlantic Coast20|Unwind in the charming coastal town of Essaouira with its lively historic medina|Trek through mountain-side villages and deserted stretches of coastline on the Atlantic
Trip Details
Product Code: 20411
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Bus
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Budget
Supplier Code: MAA
Starts:
Finishes:
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Easy
Includes
Explore Tour LeaderAccommodation
- Hotel Ayoub (or similar)
- Ksar Shama (or similar)
- Riad Dar Dzahra (or similar)
- Riad Al Madina (or similar)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1480 (CAD $185 /day)
Itinerary
Our tour of Morocco starts in the Red City. With its dusty rooftops, maze-like streets and bustling souks, Marrakech encompasses the essence of Morocco. Head to the medina and people watch while you sip a mint tea in Jemaa el-Fna (the main square) or visit the Jardin Majorelle, just a short walk from our hotel.
There are no activities planned for today, so you're free to arrive at any time. If you'd like an airport transfer, you'll need to arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), which is around a 20-minute drive from our hotel. Our Explore Leader will meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for a welcome meeting and then an optional dinner. If you arrive later, they'll catch you up as soon as possible.
Accommodation:
- Type - Hotel
- Accommodation Name - Hotel Ayoub (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - No
- Breakfast Provided - No
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - No
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: None
This morning, we leave the bustle of Marrakech behind and journey into the beauty of the High Atlas, arriving in the peaceful village of Ouirgane. Nestled within Toubkal National Park, this hidden gem is framed by red-earth hills, fragrant pine forests and a sense of calm that feels worlds away.
On arrival, we set out on foot, crossing the Assif Azaden River and winding through ancient olive groves toward a panoramic viewpoint. From here, the landscape opens up to reveal the shimmering waters of Yacoub Al Mansour Lake far below, a perfect moment to pause and take it all in.
Descending along a gentle, winding path, we pass through the traditional villages of Torort and Anraz, walking beneath pine and juniper trees whose distinctive scent lingers in the mountain air. Following a quiet trail, we eventually reach the village of Marigha, where a warm welcome awaits in a local Berber home. Here, we'll sit down to a freshly prepared lunch, giving us a true taste of mountain hospitality.
After lunch, we'll have a short transfer to our hotel, set among landscaped gardens with the Atlas peaks rising behind. There's time to relax, perhaps with a dip in the outdoor pool, as the day winds down.
Today's walk covers 8 kilometres/4.5 miles and is expected to take around three hours. It has a total ascent and descent of 250 metres/820 feet.
Accommodation:
- Type - Hotel
- Accommodation Name - Ksar Shama (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - Yes
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch
Today, we venture deeper into Morocco's mountain heartland, travelling towards the serene Oued Nfis Valley. Here, history and landscape intertwine around the ruins of a 12th-century mosque - once a spiritual and political centre of the powerful Almohad dynasty, whose influence stretched from North Africa into Spain. Though damaged in the 2023 earthquake, the site still carries a quiet sense of its former grandeur.
Setting out on foot, we follow a circular trail through the village of Tgoundaft and the surrounding valley. The scenery shifts gently as we walk: olive trees and almond groves line the fertile valley floor, giving way to orchards and, higher up, forests of pine and juniper. In spring, the landscape bursts into life, with wildflowers and crops adding colour to the already picturesque setting.
After our walk, we continue by road on one of Morocco's most spectacular drives, crossing the High Atlas via the Tizi n'Test Pass. Climbing through a series of dramatic switchbacks, we're rewarded with sweeping views back toward the towering Toubkal Massif. As we descend into the Souss Valley, the rugged mountains soften into a fertile plain, where orange groves stretch as far as the eye can see.
Our destination is Taroudant (often called "Little Marrakech") a vibrant, walled market town where Berber traders gather to sell fresh produce and handcrafted goods.
Tonight, we'll stay in a traditional riad set within a 300-year-old building in the heart of the medina, just steps from the bustling souks. With its tranquil courtyard garden, inviting terrace restaurant, and refreshing outdoor pool, it's the perfect place to unwind and soak up the atmosphere of southern Morocco.
Accommodation:
- Type - Riad
- Accommodation Name - Riad Dar Dzahra (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - No
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast
Today, we set off on a scenic drive north into the Western High Atlas, journeying towards the peaceful Afensou Valley, around 40 kilometres/25 miles from Taroudant. As the landscape unfolds, we'll pause at a panoramic viewpoint where the valley stretches out below - an inviting patchwork of greenery framed by rugged mountain slopes.
From here, we begin our gentle descent on foot towards the village of Afensou, following paths that weave past small farms and terraced fields. Along the way, we'll catch glimpses of daily life as local families tend their crops, harvesting vegetables by hand in this fertile corner of the Atlas.
In the village, we'll head to our family-run guesthouse and sit down to a traditional lunch. A fragrant tagine takes centre stage (slow-cooked in its distinctive clay pot and rich with the sweet and savoury flavours of dates and spices) served alongside freshly baked khobz - a staple of Moroccan cuisine. Today's walk covers 4 kilometres/2.5 miles and is expected to take around two hours. It has a total descent of 100 metres/328 feet.
Accommodation:
- Type - Riad
- Accommodation Name - Riad Dar Dzahra (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - Yes
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch
This morning, it's time to say goodbye to the Atlas Mountains and journey west towards the coast, heading for Agadir before continuing along the Atlantic shoreline to Sidi Mbarek.
As the road hugs the ocean, we'll pass through a landscape of small villages, banana plantations, and wide sandy beaches dotted with surfers - and, occasionally, camels. Keep an eye out for one of Morocco's most unusual sights: goats perched high in argan trees, nimbly climbing the branches in search of the fruit's sweet pulp.
Arriving at the quiet village of Sidi Mbarek, we'll set out on foot, following a trail that leads us down to the shore. Our walk continues along vast, unspoilt beaches, where the rhythmic sound of the waves and sweeping ocean views create a real sense of escape. We finish at Plage Azrou, where our vehicle will be waiting to take us further up the coast, passing the laid-back surf spot of Sidi Kaouki.
By late afternoon, we'll arrive in Essaouira, a charming fishing town framed by 15th-century Portuguese ramparts and a breezy Atlantic atmosphere. Tonight, we stay at Riad Al Madina, a beautifully restored 19th-century palace tucked within the historic medina walls. With its leafy central courtyard, trickling fountains, and rooftop terrace overlooking the medina, it's an oasis of calm after a day by the sea.
Today's walk covers 7.5 kilometres/4.6 miles and is expected to take around two hours along a flat route.
Accommodation:
- Type - Riad
- Accommodation Name - Riad Al Madina (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - No
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast
Essaouira became something of an artistic hub during the 60s and 70s, hosting icons such as Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens. That sense of creativity prevails in the ancient port city, and we'll head out on a walking tour to take it all in.
Stepping into the walled medina, we'll weave through narrow streets and hidden alleyways alive with the hum of daily life, where skilled artisans craft and sell everything from intricate woodwork to colourful textiles.
Climbing up onto the town's ramparts, we're rewarded with sweeping views across the Atlantic Ocean, where waves crash against the ancient walls and seabirds wheel overhead. Below, the bustling port comes into view, filled with a sea of iconic blue fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, as local fishermen haul in their nets and sort the day's catch. This afternoon, you're free to explore more of the captivating city at your own pace. You might like to dive back into the Medina in search of souvenirs, or stroll along Essaouira's wide, golden beach, soaking up the fresh ocean breeze and laid-back atmosphere.
Accommodation:
- Type - Riad
- Accommodation Name - Riad Al Madina (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - No
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast
After breakfast, it's time to head back to Marrakech - around a three-hour drive.
On arrival, we'll dive straight into the heady delights of the Red City with a guided walking tour. We'll pass by the rose-coloured Koutoubia (booksellers) Mosque on the way to Bahia Palace, an open-air museum that's famous for its decorated stucco walls and marble floors.
Heading into the medina on foot, we'll be guided through the labyrinth of spice-scented souks, passing by craftsmen selling rugs, leather goods and crockery before dropping by a spice shop along the way. Finally, we'll navigate our way out into the energetic Jemaa el-Fna Square.
With time to spare, there might be the opportunity to pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy a final mint tea.
Accommodation:
- Type - Hotel
- Accommodation Name - Hotel Ayoub (or similar)
- Grade - Comfortable
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - No
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast
Our tour of Morocco ends at our hotel in Marrakech.
There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer, you need to depart from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK).
Accommodation:
- Type -
- Accommodation Name -
- Grade -
- All Inclusive - No
- Any Meal Provided - Yes
- Breakfast Provided - Yes
- Dinner Provided - No
- Lunch Provided - No
- Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast
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Tour Operator
Explore Worldwide
A prominent adventure travel company with over four decades of experience, this business that offers a comprehensive array of unique and thrilling experiences worldwide. Catering to various interests, they provide small group journeys, walking and cycling trips, solo holidays, and family adventures.
In Business Since 1981
Reviews
Shelly - Traveled, May 2025
I had a great time in my tour. We were a small group of 4, ably led by our tour leader, Ibrahim, who was fantastic. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and religions of Morocco. I particularly enjoyed my time in Essouira, the Atlas Mountains and Afensou Valley hikes, and lunches at the homes of the local families. The pace of the hikes was just right and the landscapes and itinerary were interesting. Explore however, needs to revisit the itinerary. It was a little disappointing to have the Tinmel mosque that was destroyed in the recent earthquake still on the itinerary when it's mostly now rubble. With respect to accommodations, the single room at the riad in Essaoira was not suitable. Additionally, the trip notes and joining instructions were generic and not specific to our tour. Finally, parts of the tour felt geared towards making us buy things, but I guess that's par for the course in tourism. Overall, it was a great trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/15/2025
Anonymous - Traveled, May 2025
Our tour leader was excellent, very knowledgeable and attentive. He knew some great restaurants too. The itinerary was varied and gave a great flavour of Morocco, beyond the beach or Soulja which most visitors probably see.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/14/2025
Sue - Traveled, May 2025
A great tour full of variety. Although there was a fair amount of travelling involved, it was definitely worth it for all the different experiences we had . Visiting local families and eating with them , alongside walking in the mountains were a highlight for me. Hassan was a wonderful guide, informative, kind and caring to all. He took us to some amazing local restaurants every night, which we would never have found!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/15/2025
Anonymous - Traveled, November 2024
An excellent way to get to see a country and learn about it with a very experienced and affable guide. A mixed itinerary which yielded something for everyone in the group. A very hassle free experience. Loved it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/14/2024
Marie - Traveled, October 2024
Fabulous holiday, one of the best we've been to with explore. Our guide Mohammed was amazing, nothing was too much trouble, he was knowledgeable, thoughtful, kind and funny. Our drive over the Atlas mountains was memorable for many reasons, our driver Abdul was outstanding, we always felt safe in his hands, he even stopped for us to take photos of the famous goats in the argon trees!! Every place we visited was magical and beautiful, the only exception was Marrakech market where we saw poor animal welfare and exploitation. Would definitely recommend this holiday and you don't have to be serious hikers to enjoy to walks.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/10/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, September 2024
Brilliant trip all round and would have been 5/5 if the we hadn't stayed at the Hotel Almas in Marrakesh. Hotel was very tired and the air conditioning was useless - even on the coolest setting, it simply blew warm air around the room and then packed up completely around 2.00am -our room temperature hit 30 degrees. The hotel staff were difficult to say the least (we were the problem, not the air conditioning) and we weren't able to contact anyone at explore to assist.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/08/2024
Isabel - Traveled, October 2024
As an introduction to Morocco, this made a good trip. All the organisation worked well, the hotels were nice and we got to see Marrakesh, Essaouria, Taroudant and some of the rural mountain areas. This did however involve a lot of minibus travel, so be prepared. Excellent value, but as well as meals and flights be prepared for vaccinations, tips and bottled water costs. The Dirham is a closed currency (change when you arrive) and many places didn't take cards.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2024
Maureen - Traveled, May 2024
This holiday provided a very good overview of Morocco as it covered Marrakech, the town of Essaouria, walking in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and visiting Berber villages. Obviously you do need a certain level of fitness to cope with walking in hot temperatures. I found that my Nordic Walking poles were an invaluable aid. Mohammed, our Guide for the week, was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable, caring and friendly. We also had different local Guides on several days. These were also excellent. We learnt a lot about the Country and the Berber culture. Very interesting. We covered many miles by minibus and I think it is true to say that we all felt very safe with our drivers. I have scored the accommodation as "average" because it was variable. Overall I was happy with all places but they cannot be compared to the standards found in European hotels. The Riads were all beautiful buildings but allowances do have to be made due to their age. Having said that there was always plenty of hot water and the beds were comfortable (possibly too firm for some people). The Riad in Essaouria is in the heart of the Medina and is very interesting and quirky. My room was quite dusty/dirty but I feel it would be difficult to keep surfaces clean. The bathroom however was clean. We ate here one night and the food was very good. My favourite overnight stay was at The Eco Lodge in Ouirgane - a very beautiful place. Sad to see earthquake devastation in the villages. I want to go back to Morocco!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2024
Mo - Traveled, May 2024
Finding out about Moroccan culture along with the plight of those in the earthquake zone and the increasingly important issue of water. Wandering the streets and beaches of Essouria. Walking the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Accommodation was much better than I expected - well done Explore - that means a lot. the group and leader were lovely people, so easy to get along with.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2024
Anthony - Traveled, May 2023
The tour was good, but needs have more to it, Tinmel mosque this is closed for the rest of the year, so do not know why we were taken there a bit disappointing, we were meant to go to the tombs on the way back to Marrakesh this did not happen, guide could have put a lot more effort in, tour of bazaar good, but group brought in to a spice shop by the quide, and there was a bad selling experience, tip never buy any thing, until you have proper time to think and work out the exchange rate properly first.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/02/2023
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