Marrakech & Essaouira in 7 nights

Highlights

  • Uncover Marrakech's hidden gems, bustling souks, and historic landmarks
  • Discover Essaouira through its narrow alleys, vibrant art scene, and historic fortifications
  • Embark on a thrilling horse ride along Essaouira's beautiful beach.
From £1241 pp
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7 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Morocco with a three-night stay in Marrakech, followed by four tranquil nights in the coastal town of Essaouira.

Summary of Tour
Days 1-4: Marrakech
Days 4-8: Essaouira

Begin your adventure in Marrakech with a three-hour local guided tour, uncovering the city’s hidden gems, bustling souks, and historic landmarks that make Marrakech a captivating destination. Follow this with a culinary adventure through Marrakech, where you’ll be blessed with a rich tapestry of flavours.

After your enriching experience in Marrakech, head to Essaouira for a rejuvenating four-night stay. This picturesque coastal town invites you to relax and soak in its laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy a guided three-hour tour through Essaouira’s charming medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, discovering its narrow alleys, vibrant art scene, and historic fortifications. The town’s unique blend of Portuguese, French, and Berber architecture will leave you spellbound.

To add a touch of adventure to your stay, embark on a thrilling horse ride along Essaouira’s beautiful beaches. Feel the ocean breeze and admire the stunning views as you gallop along the shore. This perfect blend of cultural exploration, relaxation, and adventure ensures that your Moroccan journey will be filled with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

*from pricing based on 2 people travelling, sharing a twin or double room. For larger groups or solo travellers cost please enquire directly to hello@nitgb.com

Arrive in Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech and be transferred to your traditional Riad in the heart of the medina. Feel the pulse of the city as you embark on an evening exploration of Djemaa el-Fna, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and sampling local delicacies.

Marrakech Medina Immersion & Food Tour with Dinner

This morning you will join a guided tour of Marrakech’s medina, delving into its historical and cultural gems. Visit the Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, and the Saadian Tombs, each unveiling a chapter of the city’s rich history. Dive into the souks, where skilled artisans craft intricate wares.

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Marrakech, providing a deep dive into its historical and cultural gems. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about Moroccan culture, this tour is designed to give you a comprehensive and memorable experience of the medina.

This evening on a culinary adventure through Marrakech, where you’ll savour a rich tapestry of flavours. Delight in the unique Chicken & Almond Pastilla, a savory pie for special occasions, and indulge in local pastries like Briwate and Kaab Ghzal from the city’s oldest bakery. Enjoy comforting Harira Soup, aromatic Babbouche (Moroccan snails), and pan-fried Msemmen pancakes with honey and cheese. Refresh with iconic Moroccan Mint Tea and freshly pressed seasonal juices. Sample olives at the bustling market, and share festive Fakya (dried fruits and nuts). Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, featuring a fresh Moroccan salad and the slow-cooked traditional dish, Tanjia.

Day in the Atlas Mountains

After breakfast, you’ll take a private transfer from Marrakech to the charming Berber village of Imlil, nestled in the High Atlas Mountains at an altitude of 1,700 meters. The landscape around Imlil is dominated by towering 4,000-meter peaks, some of which are snow-capped for part of the year. From here, you’ll be able to spot the majestic Mount Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa, standing at 4,167 meters.

This beautiful area is perfect for walking and soaking in the natural beauty and local culture. Make sure to wear comfortable sports shoes as you embark on a moderate hike, guided by a local expert. You’ll enjoy a delicious, traditional lunch in a Berber house, experiencing the authentic flavors of the region.

After lunch, you’ll head back to Marrakech. The journey from Imlil to your accommodation in Marrakech will take about 1.5 hours.

 

Journey to Essaouira

Today you will check our of your accommodation in Marrakech and ravel to the picturesque coastal town of Essaouira, with a fascinating stop along the way at an Argan oil cooperative. Here, you’ll learn about the production process and its cultural significance in Morocco. Upon arriving in Essaouira, take a leisurely stroll through the UNESCO-listed medina, exploring its charming alleys and historic landmarks. Spend the evening at your leisure, enjoying the coastal breeze and sampling local delicacies.

Artistic Essaouira Exploration

After a leisurely breakfast, your guide will meet you for a three-hour tour of Essaouira. Visit the Essaouira Citadel and its historical monuments, uncovering the city’s fascinating past. Explore the local arts scene with stops at art galleries and workshops, where you’ll meet talented local artisans. Spend the afternoon at your leisure—perhaps indulge in a seafood feast by the beach, savouring the culinary delights alongside the coastal ambiance.

Option activity: Pastry Making Cooking Class

You will be introduced to the rich history and significance of Moroccan confections like Ghriba, Kaab el Ghazal, and Msemen, before engaging in hands-on pastry crafting using local ingredients such as almonds, honey, and orange blossom water. Under the guidance of an experienced local chef, they learn techniques for kneading, shaping, and baking, culminating in a tasting session where everyone enjoys the freshly made pastries with tea. The class ends with take-home recipes and often some of the sweets they’ve created.

Horse Ride on the Beach

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the Ranch for your horse riding experience. Upon arrival, the staff will greet you and introduce you to your horses.

Embark on a two-hour ride, leaving the equestrian center on horseback. You’ll head towards the beach, following the banks of the Kassob River, and visit the Sultan Moulay Abdallah Palace. Continue your ride through the dunes to the beautiful beach, where you’ll have the opportunity to gallop. Admire the Portuguese Castle and get a close view of Mogador Island, with its mosque and ancient prison.

Don’t fancy a horse ride, why not swap this for a day trip to a coastal village and spend lunch with locals.

Once you ride is complete you will have the rest of the day to explore Essaouira or relax at your leisure.

Essaouira's Relaxing Vibes

Today is your last full day in Morocco, experience the relaxed pace of Essaouira with a day at leisure. Why not indulge in a spa treatment, participate in beachside yoga, or take another horseback ride along the shore. Maybe visit the Skala de la Ville for stunning views of the Atlantic.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a seaside restaurant, celebrating your enchanting journey.

Departure

Enjoy your last breakfast before checking out of your accommodation and return to Marrakech by private transfer for departure, reflecting on the captivating experiences of your trip. Depart with cherished memories and a longing to return to the enchanting embrace of Morocco.

What's included

Included

  • 3 nights, B&B accommodation in Marrakesh
  • 4 nights, B&B accommodation in Essaouira
  • Food Tour in Marrakech (Dinner inc)
  • Half-Day trip Imlil Village in Atlas Mountains (Lunch with Berber Family inc)
  • Horse Ride for 2 hours (Lunch inc, alternative available)
  • 3hr locals guide to Marrakesh
  • 3hr locals guide to Essaouira
  • Visit an Argan Oil cooperative
  • Private Transfers

Accommodation

Riad Dar Sara, Marrakech (or similar)

Located in the heart of Marrakech, Riad Dar Sara is a Moroccan riad that offers guests an authentic experience. All rooms and suites feature elegant and refined decor, with traditional Moroccan lighting. Facilities and services available to guests include a restaurant, a wellness spa, a swimming pool, laundry services and free Wi-Fi.

Médina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa Sea and Spa (or similar)

A luxurious oceanfront hotel located in the heart of Essaouira's historic Médina. This elegant property blends modern comfort with traditional Moroccan design, offering a serene retreat with stunning views of the Atlantic. The hotel features an extensive Thalassotherapy spa, multiple dining options, a swimming pool, and easy access to the beach. Perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, it provides a peaceful atmosphere while being within walking distance of Essaouira's vibrant markets, ramparts, and cultural attractions.

Your local host

Brahim

My name is Brahim, born and raised in the vibrant coastal city of Agadir, where the influx of tourists paints a colourful tapestry of cultures. Tourism pulsates through the veins of this dynamic city, shaping its identity and livelihood. I started my career in the tourism industry 10 years ago, and dedicated myself to orchestrating unforgettable journeys that traverse from the sea to the desert and fostering connections with the local community along the way, it is my passion to ensure that each traveller departs, not just with souvenirs, but with treasure memories and boundless joy.

My name is Brahim, born and raised in the vibrant coastal city of Agadir, where the influx of tourists paints a colourful tapestry of cultures. Tourism pulsates through the veins of this dynamic city, shaping its identity and livelihood. I started my career in the tourism industry 10 years ago, and dedicated myself to orchestrating unforgettable journeys that traverse from the sea to the desert and fostering connections with the local community along the way, it is my passion to ensure that each traveller departs, not just with souvenirs, but with treasure memories and boundless joy.

Location

Upon your arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to a charming central Riad in Marrakech. Settle into your accommodations and begin to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

On Day 4, you will be transferred from Marrakech to your accommodation in Essaouira, where you can enjoy the coastal town’s relaxing ambiance and historic charm. As your journey concludes on Day 8, you will be transferred back to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, leaving with cherished memories of your Moroccan adventure.

FAQs

What do I need to know and what equipment is include on the horse riding experience?

On arrival, the staff who will show you the equestrian safety instructions, and you can fill out the rental contract and get to know your instructor who will help you choose the cap of your size.

The recommended clothing is long trousers and closed shoes, and the rider's weight must not exceed 90kg (14 stone) to preserve the health of the Berber Arabian horses.

How long is the transfer time from Marrakesh to Essaouira?

The transfer time is approximately 3 hours.

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