Ancient Empires
Day 4 Includes
- Breakfast at riad
- Day on your own
- Standard Accommodations: Dar Pangal (or similar)
- Luxury Accommodations: Dar Les Cigognes (or similar)
"So many positives about the trip"
"We’re writing to let you know about the wonderful time we had in Morocco. We both agree that we had “the time of our lives” in this beautiful, exotic country. There are so many positives about the trip, the guides, the accommodations, the history, the sites, the scenery, even the camels!"
-Nancy R
Day 4: Marrakech on your own
Today is your day to get up close and personal with the city. After breakfast at your accommodations, the rest of the day is yours. Head back into the souks for some shopping adventures, or take a break at the Garden Majorelle.
If spending too much time in one place isn't your style, then we offer day trips outside of Marrakech. One of our favorite day trips from Marrakech is into the Ourika Valley of the High Atlas Mountains. It's only an hour outside of Marrakech, but a totally different world. Green fields and orchards coat the valley floor fed by rivers flowing from the mountains. As the road rises and ends, the hiking trails start, so bring your hiking boots and your guide will lead you along mountain paths to hidden waterfalls and grottos (moderately difficult hike). Then to a Berber village for lunch and a look at their way of life.
Essaouira is a walled city perched on the rocky shores of the Atlantic. Designed by a European hired by the Sultan, it was once a major trading port, but with its sheltered long sand beach, quaint fishing harbor, and excellent seafood, it's now known as a tourist destination. With its bright, airy, narrow streets with whitewashed buildings and blue doors, Essaouira seems strangely out of place. Its laid back atmosphere is a stark contrast to other historical cities in Morocco, making it a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. If you'd like, we can even arrange for an overnight in Essaouira at the
Dar Al Bahar.
Shopping Hints: Essaouira is the only city in Morocco filled with painters producing original art. Also Tula wood objects, with its rich and beautiful grain, are everywhere at a pretty much uniform price and well worth a look.