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4.6
| 83 reviews

Explore Moroccan Kasbahs and Camp in the Sahara

5 nights
Easy

Stroll through remarkable gorges, explore ancient kasbahs and ride camels through the dunes to a Berber camp

What's Included?

Activities & Certified Guides

All itinerary activities with expert, English-speaking local guides

All accommodation

2 nights in a riad, 2 nights in a hotel and 1 night in a Berber camp

Meals

5 breakfasts and 3 dinners

Transfers

Airport transfers and all travel on the trip

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From

excluding flights

What's it like?

4.6
| 83 reviews
A wonderful easy-going adventure
July 2024
ALICE S.
A wonderful easy-going adventure
July 2024
ALICE S.
A wonderful easy-going adventure
July 2024
ALICE S.
A real value-for-money adventure!
May 2024
Kristian Z.
A real value-for-money adventure!
May 2024
Kristian Z.
A real value-for-money adventure!
May 2024
Kristian Z.
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!
May 2024
Hilary G.
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!
May 2024
Hilary G.
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!
May 2024
Hilary G.
Well organised and locally vibrant
May 2024
Eeshwar C.
Well organised and locally vibrant
May 2024
Eeshwar C.
Brilliant Trip - thank you!!
April 2024
Mark E.
Brilliant Trip - thank you!!
April 2024
Mark E.
A Journey
April 2024
Isabella C.
A Journey
April 2024
Isabella C.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
Fantastic trip
April 2024
Natalie J.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.
This was a fantastic opportunity
April 2024
Eleanor C.

Wander the winding streets of ancient, walled kasbahs and through the pathways of dramatic deep gorges

Spend a night at a traditional Berber camp and sleep under the huge desert sky spotting shooting stars

Experience the best of Moroccan culture and nature as you soak up vast landscapes, sleep in riads and learn about ancient traditions

Key Information

Day 1

Welcome to Marrakech

Driving

15 mins

Your host will meet you at the airport and take you to your traditional riad accommodation in Marrakech’s historic medina. You'll then get the chance to spend the day exploring the city’s colourful souks, wander the UNESCO-listed main square and indulge in some amazing Moroccan food.

Day 2

From Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou

Driving

4-5hrs · 190km

You will be picked up in a modern 4x4 or minibus before setting off on a journey that will take you up and over the Atlas Mountains before descending to the desert on the other side. Along the way you'll stop at a high mountain pass, a 17th-century kasbah, and an oasis where you'll learn a bit about Berber folklore and grab lunch. The day ends in Ait Ben Haddou, a red clay city where films and shows like Gladiator and Game of Thrones have been filmed. Relax with dinner and sunset in this picturesque walled city.

Day 3

Draa River Valley and Camel Trekking in Merzouga

Driving

6-7hrs · 390km

Heading to the scenic Draa River Valley today you'll check out the area’s numerous kasbahs and oases. Calm water backed by the snowy Atlas Mountains makes this valley particularly beautiful. Later in the day you will arrive in Merzouga to meet your camels and gear up for a night in the desert. The 1.5-hour sunset camel trek will end at a traditional Berber camp in the dunes. Enjoy hot mint tea and fresh dinner around the fire, and sleep under the stars or in a comfortable Berber tent.

Day 4

Dades Valley and Todra Gorge

Driving

5-6hrs · 300km

After a leisurely breakfast in the camp (and a incredible sunrise if you're early enough) you’ll be picked up by your driver and taken to Todra Gorge, an impressive canyon with sheer 160m cliff walls. Hike around to check out the views, and when you’re done exploring continue the drive through the Dades Valley to your hotel. Known as the 'Valley a Thousand Kasbahs', this rose red landscape is spectacular.

Day 5

Ouarzazate to Marrakech

Driving

7-8hrs · 365km

This morning’s drive will take you along the Rose Valley to Skoura Oasis, a surprisingly verdant village in the desert. Continue onto Ouarzazate to have lunch at a kasbah, then finish the trip with a leisurely drive back over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech for a final night in the old town.

Day 6

Goodbye Morocco

Driving

15mins

Relax over your last Moroccan breakfast, explore the town some more if you have time, then transfer to the airport to catch your flight home.

Day 1

Riad · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3

Campsite · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 5

Riad · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 6

Departure day

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Moroccan food has a unique blend of sweet and savoury flavours. Local specialities include tajines (a stew cooked in an earthenware pot), couscous, and pastilles (flaky pastries stuffed with meat and dusted with cinnamon and sugar). Food is often spiced with cumin, turmeric and ginger.

The food is fresh and healthy. Example meals: Breakfast: Jam, bread, cookies, fruit, juice, butter, coffee, milk Lunch: Salad, tomatoes, carrots, lentils, beans, rice or pasta, fish, seasonal fruit Dinner: Soup, classic Moroccan tajine, couscous, olives, nuts, fruit

Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please just request on your passenger info form

What is the accommodation like?

Marrakech

In Marrakech, you'll stay in a beautiful riad - traditional Moroccan houses with an interior garden or courtyard. The exact riad you stay in will be confirmed nearer the time based on availability and group size. All are chosen for their excellent reputation, location, beautiful decor and welcoming service.

Ait Ben Haddou and Dades Valley

On Days 2 and 4 you'll sleep in small local hotels both featuring private rooms with unique decor and ensuite bathrooms.

Berber Camp

The Berber camp provides permanent carpeted tents with beds, or, if you prefer, blankets for sleeping under the stars.

Upgrades

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).

This trip has been rated as Easy

This is a relaxed trip that is mostly cultural exploration with a dash of activity. The camel trek, though a little uncomfortable, is easy and fun for most travellers. Any other hiking is optional and entirely up to whether you want to join or not.

The desert can get quite hot, with daytime temperatures averaging 15 - 40°C from March to October, and 5 - 20°C from November to February. Nighttime temperatures drop significantly and can even approach freezing in the winter. As much as 10mm of rain can fall in any month, particularly from October to January, but generally the desert is dry.

In the summer (June, July, August), daytime temperatures have been known to approach 45°C on occasions in the desert and in the towns and cities on this trip, so please ensure that you come prepared with sun protection, light and airy clothing and electrolytes/rehydration solutions if travelling at this time of year. If it becomes unsafe to camp in the desert due to extreme summer temperatures, your host will accommodate you in a nearby hotel instead.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Marrakech Airport (RAK)

Arrive anytime on Day 1

Ends

Marrakech Airport (RAK)

Depart anytime on Day 6

Transfers

Private transfers between the airport and your riad are included for any time you choose to arrive on day 1 and depart on day 6, or if you have booked additional pre or post trip accommodation with your host.

If you are making your own arrangements to extend your stay in Morocco, private transfers between Marrakech airport and Marrakech city are not included but can be arranged with your host for an additional cost. Please see Optional Extras for details.

Travel options

There are daily flights to Marrakech from major airports across the UK and Europe.

Please note that mobile boarding passes are not accepted at Marrakech airport. You will need to present a printed boarding pass on departure.

Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear

In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.

What's provided?

  • Bedding for the night in the camp

What do I need to bring?

  • Good walking shoes
  • Light-weight long-sleeve shirts
  • Light-weight trousers
  • A warm jacket for the evenings
  • Clothes for sleeping in
  • Underwear
  • Personal toiletries
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Hand Sanitiser
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock)
  • Camera
  • Universal plug adaptor
  • Electrolytes/rehydration solutions (Summer)
  • Medium sized rucksack for easy transportation and storage of your belongings
*Requests for optional extras can be made after booking on your “My Bookings” page

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Double/Twin Room

Payable Before Departure

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Double/Twin Room

Per Night

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Single Room

Payable Before Departure

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Single Room

Per Night

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Payable Before Departure

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Private transfer between Marrakech Airport and Marrakech City (per vehicle)

Payable Before Departure

Private transfer between Marrakech Airport and Marrakech City (per vehicle)

ALICE S.(July 2024)
A wonderful easy-going adventure
A wonderful easy-going adventure
A wonderful easy-going adventure
A wonderful easy-going adventure

My Mum & I had a truly lovely time on this trip, it was our first guided tour/adventure and it was so perfect having everything organised for us (besides the flights). Our guide (Houssaine) and driver (Youssef) were fantastic. They were incredibly warm, welcoming & knowledgeable. Youssef made the driving look effortless. In addition to the provided kit list, I took; quick dry towel, neck cushion (for the long drives), swimsuit, powder shampoo & body wash (my new fav travel items!), handheld fan & earplugs. All these extra items came in handy!

I wouldn't hesitate booking with Much Better Adventures again.

Fiona P.(June 2024)
Guide and driver very nice,

Guide and driver very nice, although would have appreciated being given more information to learn about the history and culture of Morocco. As expected it was a lot of driving but the bus was comfortable. Food in Morocco was lovely. Hotels pleasant.

Kristian Z.(May 2024)
A real value-for-money adventure!
A real value-for-money adventure!
A real value-for-money adventure!
A real value-for-money adventure!

So firstly, this was my first time doing this kind of tour, or travelling without family and friends, so I was initially a bit nervous.

However, once I had met the group and we got underway, I soon eased into it. The people were lovely, and Hussain was an excellent tour guide - he really looked after us and kept us on track.

As indicated on the webpage, there is a lot of driving, but when you consider the sheer variety of sites and landscapes you get to see, this is par for the course. Also rest stops were well scheduled, so I never felt trapped in the bus.

The Sahara desert was a clear highlight - something everyone should try and experience IMO. The camel trek, the camp, quad-biking - I was blown away.

In summary, for the quality of food, accommodation, landscapes and experiences, this tour was an absolute steal. Would recommend it to anyone, especially a first-timer.

Christopher G.(May 2024)
A superb 5 night adventure in Morocco.

Sure, the journey from Marrakech to Merzouga's Berber desert camp is a marathon, not a sprint. But with Hussain's expert guidance and Driss at the wheel, the miles melted away punctuated by drink and lunch breaks, epic photo ops, and jaw-dropping views.

The real magic unfolded under the desert's night sky. Stargazing with a fellow adventurer, these are the memories I'll treasure forever. The transition from Marrakech's vibrant chaos to this serene wilderness was simply unforgettable. Bonus points to Hussain for getting me exclusive access to the hotel terrace in the Dades Gorge for a 3 am stargazing session, for which I will be forever grateful.

Jennifer V.(May 2024)
Wow, what a fantastic experience.

Wow, what a fantastic experience. Our senses were assaulted from the minute we arrived in Marrakech, with all its hustle, bustle, noise and aromas. What a contrast with the open, barren lands through which we passed on the following days as we visited the various destinations on the tour. I couldn't pick out a highlight, it was all fantastic, from the historic sightseeing, the sunsets, the camel and quad bike rides, the film studios, the food.... I could go on, but it's always so much better to experience these things for yourself 😎 Thank you.

Hilary G.(May 2024)
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!
Marvellous Morocco made Magic with MBA!

What a fantastic break. It was a compact introduction to Morocco with a great guide in Hussain. The group was friendly which helped, the accomodation was good, activities were well thought out. All in all a great experience. In response to people’s comments re driving, there is a lot but that’s how you get to see the country and there are breaks at various locations along the way eg the fossil factory, walk along the gorge. Highlights were definitely the sunrise at the Berber camp and walking through Ait Ben Haddou. Thanks all for making it a great experience.

Eeshwar C.(May 2024)
Well organised and locally vibrant
Well organised and locally vibrant
Well organised and locally vibrant

I had a great experience! The group was diverse in age group, with likeminded people. Trip went just like it was planned and our guide Hussain was knowledgeable with local history, is a great person to talk throughout our journey! Hotel/Raid accommodations were fine in the Marrakesh , whilst others were much better and vibrant with local vibe. The food was great! The pace of the trip was just like needed and short breaks, though we have to accept it’s long way on the roads!

Mark E.(April 2024)
Brilliant Trip - thank you!!
Brilliant Trip - thank you!!
Brilliant Trip - thank you!!

Genuinely incredible trip & we were well looked after. I was wary of false reviews but genuinely our group had an incredible time. I will definitely be using this company again. Morocco itself was unbelievable with what we did, saw & learnt! You won’t regret going! Only minors out of their control is if you go Jun-Aug the heat will be unpleasant in my view otherwise amazing overall.

Isabella C.(April 2024)
A Journey
A Journey
A Journey

Solid trip. The Riad on arrival day was a bit disorganized (had a notably better experience at a different Riad on another trip), and the drives were long (though it was nice to watch the world go by, and it was a comfortable ride), but the Sahara Desert is a stunning place and worth it. The stops along the way were a bit touristy, which I suppose is to be expected (and I was, after all, one of them).

Jennifer M.(April 2024)
Great guide and tour. Lots

Great guide and tour. Lots of terrain covered and the trip to the Sahara was a highlight.

Natalie J.(April 2024)
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip

Morocco is stunning and this trip does it justice, absolutely value for money. I went with one person I knew and the rest of the group were so lovely, we all got on well. It's probably a good idea to get in on the first day with time to find an ATM as it was a bit difficult at least on the 2nd day to get money out outside Marrakesh. There is a lot of driving so I'd pack earphones to pass some of the time. It started to get warm towards the final days of the trip but not enough to need swimwear. Also, perhaps what we didn't prepare for was significant windy weather, especially in the Sahara so sunglasses and headscarf became a must.

Eleanor C.(April 2024)
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity
This was a fantastic opportunity

This was a fantastic opportunity to get a good overview of some beautiful Morrocan scenery and a great introduction to Morroco. The journeys were long but the changing landscape was stunning. The transport was very comfortable with ample room and aircon. As with any group it is the people who make it, our group was made like minded people all of whom wanted to make the most of the limited time we had. Hasan our guid was phenomenal. Part guide, part professional photographer he made sure that we had anything we needed. Food and accommodation were basic but this is reflected in the low cast of the trip. Day two was by far my favourite seeing the city of Marrakech fall away and the landscape open up beneath the Atlas mountains was breath taking. With the least amount of travel and the opportunity to walk around Ait Ben Haddou later in the evening, learning about the history of the area and the Berber people along with modern sites such as filming locations, definitely my highlight.

Michela N.(March 2024)
A Moroccan road (and camel) adventure

Many thanks to our fantastic guide and driver, Houssain and Hassan, for leading us on this on this road trip. They created a friendly and relaxed atmosphere as they introduced us to the diverse landscapes of Morocco's interior. They even taught us a few phrases that proved very useful for haggling in the souks of Marrakech on our return! Travelling with a group was fun - I would recommend this to anyone travelling solo in Morocco and wanting to get outside the main cities. The views from the Atlas mountains and the dunes of the Sahara will stay long in my memory. Tanemirt (thank you)!

Rachel T.(March 2024)
One of the best trips I’ve had!
One of the best trips I’ve had!

This trip exceeded my expectations and really was a once in a lifetime experience! There was a lot of driving but this was broken up with lunch breaks at gorgeous restaurants with views and interesting stops along the way. Our guide and driver were brilliant and made the trip completely stress free for us and the hotels were lovely; comfortable and some with balconies or great views. I’m now recommending this trip to all my friends as it was so special and hope to go back to Morocco soon!

Satyaprakash C.(March 2024)
The tour was very well

The tour was very well planned and every aspect of the tour was well thought out. Both the guide and the driver were very knowledgeable and friendly. The highlight of the tour was the time spent on the sand dunes. I would strongly recommend this tour to anyone who would like to explore this part of Morocco.

Jasmine O.(February 2024)
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!
Amazing Trip!

This trip massively exceeded my expectations! MBA were amazing with communicating in the lead up to the trip, particularly around the time of the unfortunate earthquake. Aztet Trek Team were simply wonderful! Special shout outs to Mouna, Assia, Hassan and Hussain - what a powerhouse of a team. Seamless communication before, during and after the trip. It was really life changing to see such beautiful views in the dunes, Marrakesh and the valleys we passed. Hussain was a wonderful tour guide who answered all questions we asked and was extremely knowledgable, as well as very helpful and friendly. Hassan was the best driver, always smiling and going the extra mile. Mouna and Assia were second to none at assuring we had everything we needed and were on hand to answer any questions we had so I felt very well equipped and confident on arrival to Morocco for the first time and sadly when it came to leave. Would definitely recommend and already planning on coming back!

James W.(February 2024)
A great trip to experience Morocco.
A great trip to experience Morocco.
A great trip to experience Morocco.
A great trip to experience Morocco.
A great trip to experience Morocco.
A great trip to experience Morocco.

This journey felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity, the camel ride through the Sahara surpassed my expectations. The atmosphere was surreal. Our tour guide Hussein was very friendly and helpful. This experience has definitely made me want to go back to Morocco in the future or explore further afield. The right choice for a roadtrip to experience a lot of Morocco.

Chloe P.(February 2024)
Best trip ever!
Best trip ever!
Best trip ever!

AMAZING!! such good value and I enjoyed every part of it. all of the accommodation had amazing views, the food was delicious and our tour guide Hussain was so friendly. I can’t believe I got to experience Marrakech, the desert and the atlas mountains for such a small price. Would definitely recommend to anyone considering.

Mercy(November 2023)
Highly recommended, enjoyable trip which

Highly recommended, enjoyable trip which gives you a flavour of Morocco. Take more cash than you think you need outside Marrakech. The camels are lovely.

Leanne(November 2023)
Overall this trip was really good, with the...
Overall this trip was really good, with the...
Overall this trip was really good, with the...

Overall this trip was really good, with the Sahara being the unforgettable highlight. This trip however could be improved by some better attention to details. For one I recommend bringing more money than you think, even though breakfasts and dinners are included this does not include water on the trip, therefore we were spending most of our cash buying water every day which I did not account for. I would also recommend trying to break down your exchanged cash into smaller notes where possible, it was extremely difficult to buy anything outside marakesh as places did not take card and never had any change for larger notes. A final warning is that if you are going in August (+40 degrees) you will be spending 5 hours roughly on a minibus which in our case had very poor (basically zero) air conditioning, so I would recommend a mini hand fan. The kit list is also a bit confusing about luggage stating you need a medium Rucksack, this was not the case as I brought along a checked in suitcase which was fine.

Cassidy(October 2023)
I really enjoyed this trip!! As a solo trav...
I really enjoyed this trip!! As a solo trav...
I really enjoyed this trip!! As a solo trav...
I really enjoyed this trip!! As a solo trav...

I really enjoyed this trip!! As a solo traveller you don’t need to worry - the group & guide will be close after the first day! Just be aware it is a driving/sightseeing holiday - we spent on average around 6 hours in a minibus each day. If you’re going in the summer months you should definitely take a strong handheld fan & a swimming costume (which isn’t included in the kit list). The accommodations were amazing (there is no air-con in the desert & also no hairdryers in the accommodations if you’re wondering), the pools were a welcome surprise! Breakfasts are incredible, lunches and dinners are not varied but tasty (you will spend around £10-£20 per lunch) as dinners are included. You also have to pay for drinks (£1.50) across the trip. I spent £150 with a few souvenirs included! You will also have to pay for one kasbah visit & the film studios - which are worth it but not included in the price. FYI you can take money out at the airport or at an ATM (only Marrakech accepted card payments). Overall, this is an amazing experience & worth the money.

Alice(October 2023)

We had a fantastic time on this trip! Our local guide Ibrahim and driver Youssef were so friendly, informative and eager to introduce us to Moroccan culture and it was a pleasure spending time with them. We had an intimate group of 4 people which meant we had a brilliantly bespoke experience, Ibrahim kindly adapting the itinerary to whatever experience we preferred. Our highlights included the trek into the Sahara desert and the overnight stay which was stunning and felt incredibly special, as well as the beautiful Todra Gorge walk which was off the beaten track and felt like something not a lot of tourists get to do. We also ate at local restaurants which were clearly hand-picked for their great menus and picturesque settings. We would not hesitate to recommend this trip to others. Overall, this is incredible value for money and a great way to see the country.

Richard(June 2023)
The trip was excellent - well planned and w...
The trip was excellent - well planned and w...
The trip was excellent - well planned and w...
The trip was excellent - well planned and w...
The trip was excellent - well planned and w...

The trip was excellent - well planned and well executed and the local staff were spot on with descriptions and explanations. Our guide Ibrahim was very knowledgeable and brought much more to the trip than merely facilitating a journey into the desert. The side trips were tailored to the ability of the group so we got to do a few more fun rambles up small ditches and down rocky banks. The riads were well chosen and the staff in all were very helpful with great suggestions of where to go in Marrakech/sh, printing out forgotten boarding plasses etc. Great trip and well executed - have been recommending it to friends since returning

Kirstin(June 2023)
We booked this trip and we were not disappo...
We booked this trip and we were not disappo...
We booked this trip and we were not disappo...
We booked this trip and we were not disappo...

We booked this trip and we were not disappointed. In fact, it exceeded both of our expectations!! Neither of us had been on an organised trip like this before and we are so glad we decided to do it with MBA. Everything from beginning to end was spot on from booking to getting updated information about the trip before we left to the trip itself! The Riads, hotels and Berber tent (in the desert) were great! All had WIFI, ensuite facilities and aircon (except in the desert). Most of the riads had a small plunge pool and all were all exceptionally clean and comfortable. Stops and walks were always tailored to our group and our tour guide Ibrahim, and driver Hassan, were just brilliant!

We were a group of 8 and the minibus was a good size so we could spread out. The journeys are long, but bearable as there are lots of stops along the way. We were really lucky with the group we were with as we all got on well and therefore there was lots of chat and laughter during the long rides. We felt that any more than 8 people in the group would perhaps have made the minibus feel rather cramped but it may be that for bigger groups a different (or more than one) vehicle may be used (maybe something to ask when booking?)

We had two solo travellers in our group but within minutes we had all become friends and they seemed very comfortable and well integrated in the group. We both felt that, should we ever want to travel solo, this company would be ideal to go with as everything was brilliantly organised and we always felt safe and well looked after.

Some tips: bring swimwear as there are small plunge pools at most locations. For the majority of the time, we were most comfortable in long thin trousers and cotton shirts. Bring a hat as the sun is very hot at times (a small battery operated fan wouldn’t go amiss in the 40 degree heat in the desert). Trainers are good enough so you don’t need walking boots. We also brought our own head scarfs for our time in the desert (protection from sun and sand if its windy) but there’s an opportunity to buy local scarfs from around £10 to £20 on the way. We used a European adapter plug and there were plenty of opportunities to charge phones etc wherever we stayed. The minibus also had charging points by the seats.

The camel ride into the desert was fantastic - all camels very well behaved and accommodating. There is an option to camel ride, 4x4 or quad bike back out the desert after your stay. We opted to take the quad bike option which was brilliant fun! The camels and 4x4 truck are included in the holiday price but the quads was an extra cost. That said it was only 450DH each (£37 at the current exchange rate) and was well worth the money!!

You can pay by card in many places but the local restaurants in the smaller villages prefer cash so make sure you have some with you at all times. There are opportunities to visit ATMs throughout the trip and your guide is great at letting you know when you have the opportunity to do this - but do just ask anyway so they can plan this into a stop.

We took out local currency at the airport (the exchange was 1DH/0.86p when we went) and we found that 2000DH (around £160) was enough for both of us to buy lunches for the three days we were travelling outside of Marrakech. Lunch, with a drink, was about 120DH (about £10) each on average. We also each gave our guide 200DH (about £16) on arrival as he took care of buying us bottled water and also tipping at the local rest stops and cafes/restaurants. You will obviously need more cash if you are keen to buy souvenirs in the villages. That said many of the lunch stops did take card, however it is best to have cash when you are not in the main towns as this may not always be an option.

If you are partial to a glass of wine or gin and tonic with dinner, be aware that none of the places outside the main city supply alcohol. So, talk to your guide who will let you know where you can buy alcohol to take with you. The Riads and hotels we stayed in were very accepting of BYO but it is always good to check with your guide that this is the case in all places as it is a Muslim country.

Have a great trip - you wont regret it!!

Kate and Kirstin

Teresa(June 2023)
Amazing trip which I would highly recommend...
Amazing trip which I would highly recommend...
Amazing trip which I would highly recommend...
Amazing trip which I would highly recommend...
Amazing trip which I would highly recommend...

Amazing trip which I would highly recommend. The absolute highlight was the Sahara. Houssaine and Abdul were incredible guides. Just be aware the time driving is a lot more than advertised on the website, but there are regular breaks and stops.

Graham(June 2023)

A great introduction to Marakesh, the desert and the huge variety inbetween. It takes quite a lot of time to get to the desert but it's worth it!

Claire(May 2023)

A good introduction to Morocco, but the drives are much longer than shown. You are travelling for around 9-10 hours every day with only about 1.5 hours of activities, either in the evening or split over the day, for example the gorge ‘hike’ was actually a fifteen minute stroll. Highlights were the camel trek and visit to the desert film studio.

Milena(May 2023)
I just came back from this trip and I had t...
I just came back from this trip and I had t...
I just came back from this trip and I had t...
I just came back from this trip and I had t...
I just came back from this trip and I had t...

I just came back from this trip and I had the most amazing experience. Yes, you spend a lot of time in the mini bus but there are also a lot of stops along the way. It does take 400km to get to the Sahara and 400km back to Marrakech but this is what needs to be done to take you to the camp. The scenery along the way is worth it and the Sahara experience is worth every mile on the road. Ait Benhaddou and the gorges are incredible too.

We had a really great group and the guide Hussein and the driver Abdul went out their way to accommodate everyone and make this trip the best it could be. I am really grateful. This is more of a leisure trip, or even road trip, than an active one so don’t expect much action (the most we’ve done was climb up to the fort in Ait Benhaddou, which is quite a lot of steps but you don’t need to do it - it’s super worth it if you can though).

The riads and hotels go from basics to awesome, depending on where you stay but they are all reasonably good. Camping in the desert is more like glamping - hot showers, even wifi, and proper beds. Food in the countryside can be quite disappointing - tagines in Morocco are not the same as we know as Moroccan food internationally, they can be quite bland.

As a woman, I felt like the dress code was a lot less strict than most of us expected: vests are fine, even shorts are ok if you can handle men’s attention. Having said that, Marrakech is very safe and I felt safe walking on my own. Take a scarf, which can be used for covering up when needed and as a turban in the desert.

You can find bottled spring water everywhere, so don’t worry about that. I would recommend she-wees for the ladies to be used in some road toilets (you can find them on Amazon) and headphones for the car journey. Also, remember you can’t take money out of Morocco. I exchanged £150 for the entire trip in the airport and had enough money for food, tips and a few items from the souks In Marrakech.

The countryside of Morocco is extremely poor and you will see a lot of stray animals and animals been used for transport or entertainment. I felt very sorry for them, even our camels, but remember this is the way they live, animals are currency there and they need them to get by.

Overall, Morocco is a beautiful country, the people are really nice and the views are just breathtaking. Just enjoy the ride, enjoy the views, you will have an amazing time.

Julian(May 2023)
The trip was absolutely phenomenal and exce...
The trip was absolutely phenomenal and exce...
The trip was absolutely phenomenal and exce...
The trip was absolutely phenomenal and exce...
The trip was absolutely phenomenal and exce...

The trip was absolutely phenomenal and exceeded all our expectations. From the moment we booked, everything went smoothly and effortlessly. The team at Aztat Treks made us feel at home throughout our journey.

Marrakech, with its vibrant and bustling atmosphere, was an absolute delight to explore. Every corner we turned revealed something new and exciting. We stayed at Riad View Point, where the folks (and especially Assia) were super welcoming and helpful, providing us with great tips for the city, and cooking the most delicious dinner and breakfast!

On our way to the desert, our guide Houssain and our driver Ahmed were absolute stars, providing us with a wealth of knowledge and making us feel comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings. We really can't recommend them enough!

The camel ride was an unforgettable experience, filled with a surreal sense of wonder and the cutest animals you can imagine!

However, my real highlight of the trip was the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges. The sheer beauty of the place left me speechless — it was as if I was wearing sunglasses with a breathtaking picture glued on them, but it was all real!

While we were at Aït Benhaddou, I really felt the timelessness of the place. I was looking at the sheer vastness at sunset, enjoying the breeze, and imagining how people were surviving in this place where water is scarce for thousands of years.

We really enjoyed the trip itinerary, although, have in mind, there was more driving involved than we expected — prepare to wake up early and spend quite some time in the minibus. It’s definitely worth it though.

Thanks to the team, Morocco has truly captured our hearts, and we cannot wait to return for more extraordinary adventures.

Emma(April 2023)
This was the first MBA trip and first ever...
This was the first MBA trip and first ever...
This was the first MBA trip and first ever...
This was the first MBA trip and first ever...
This was the first MBA trip and first ever...

This was the first MBA trip and first ever solo travelling trip I've ever taken and I couldn't fault it, it was amazing! Ibrahim our guide and Hassan our driver both looked after us all so so well throughout the entire trip. I had a very minor injury and Ibrahim cleaned and patched me up in no time, he then continued to check up on me to ensure I was ok for the remainder of the trip, I felt very safe and well catered for with them. The camel trek to the desert was an experience I won't forget, we then had the option of taking the camels, quad bikes or driving back from the desert the next day so it was great to have different options. Ibrahim took us on some stunning walks and was very knowledgeable about the areas we were in. I have recommended this trip to anyone who will listen to me as it was excellent value for money and has also given me a lot of confidence as a first time solo traveller! Much love to Ibrahim & Hassan <3

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 296kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Sure can. If you would like to leave anything in Marrakech, your host will look after this for you.

We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.

https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/

For current advice about travelling in Morocco, have a read of the UK Foreign Office pages here.

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/entry-requirements

Ramadan will take place from 28th Februrary to 30th March 2025. The national holiday of Eid ul-Fitr will follow for 2-3 days. Ramadan is an Islamic festival where the religious do not eat or drink during daylight hours. While this is a really interesting time to travel, especially to witness celebrations where the fast is broken in the evenings, you can expect some business hours will be shortened, alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours and some restaurants will be closed during this festival period. Activities for local people tend to be limited during the day and the nights are very active in cities with lots of different foods being sold and consumed. Ramadan will not affect the inclusions on your trip although you should be aware that dinners will be served after locals break their fast in the evenings.

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice however we suggest budgeting for a minimum of 300 Dirham per person, to be split and offered directly to the following individuals: Guides: MAD150 Drivers: MAD105 Riad staff: MAD45 (total)

Of course, you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.

Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.

Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.

We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.

Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

Private trip

Got questions? We've got answers

Our friendly and expert team is on hand to help you choose one of our adventures. So if you want answers to questions like "Who else is going?" or anything else about this trip – please get in touch.

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Guaranteed to run

All our trips are now guaranteed to run. Once you’ve booked your spot you can immediately make your travel arrangements, no uncertainty, no hanging about (excludes 'request to book' departures). Full details

Flexible payments

Secure your spot with the minimum deposit and pay off the remaining balance in as many instalments as you like, with no interest or fees. Full details

Happiness Guarantee

We’re so confident you’ll have an amazing time we’ll put our money on it. Full details

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To give you complete peace of mind we’re backed by ABTOT, ABTA and ATOL memberships. Full details

Tried & Trusted

We’re rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 900 verified trip reviews averaging 4.8/5.

Connect before you go

You'll be invited to join a WhatsApp group to get to know each other before your big adventure together. Full details

DEPARTURE DATES

September 2024

Thursday • 26th September 2024

to Tuesday • 1st October 2024
Guaranteed to run
Private trip

Go private and split the bill with ease.

Forget complex logistics, we've taken care of all the details to ensure a hassle-free get together. All of the adventure, none of the faff.

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