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C$1420 (p/p)

Moroccan Circuit Tour

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Moroccan Circuit OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

9 days

Marrakech to Marrakech

From

C$1420 (p/p)

Country(ies): Morocco

Tour type: Small Group

Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 16

Accommodation: 3 to 4-star hotels & Berber camp

Meals:

Transport: AC Minivan, Minibus or Coach

Highlights: Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca; Rabat Royal Palace; Imperial walled city of Meknes; UNESCO listed Roman ruins at Volubilis; Medina, dye-pits & tanneries in Fes; Atlas Mountains; Erg Chebbi Saharan sand dunes; Camel trek & Berber desert camp

This 9-day Morocco small-group tour uncovers both ancient cities, impressive ruins and busy medinas in the north of the country, and then crosses the Atlas mountains to discover the sand dunes of the Sahara desert. As such we get a real taste for everything that North Africa's most beutiful country has to offer.

The tour starts and finishes in Marrakech, perhaps Morocco's most famous and beguiling city. You'll have plenty of time here to explore the medina and see more of this enchanting city. Next you take in three more of Morocco's great Imperial Cities, visiting the capital Rabat, the walled city of Meknes, and the ancient city of Fes with its huge medina, tanneries and dye pits. Other stops in the north of the country include Casablanca on the Atlantic coast, and the extensive UNESCO listed Roman ruins at Volubilis.

After a full day in Fes you then head up into and across the Atlas mountains for a scenic drive to the small town of Merzouga, which sits on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here youi board camels and take a trek into the spectacular Erg Chebbi sand dunes before spending the night in an authentic Berber desert camp on the edge of the desert. Time in the deep Todra Gorge follows, with the opportunity for a short hike through the canyon and Palmerie area, or to try some rock climbing. Then you follow the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to Ouarzazate and the Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, which you may find familiar as it has appeared in several movies, some of which were also partially filmed in the nearby Atlas studios which you'll also have the opportunity to visit.

The tour then ends by crossing North Africa's highest mountain pass, the Tizi n'Tichka, before descending back into Marrakech to finish the tour. Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels and the desert camp, and the tour can also be extended by adding extra nights in Marrakech at either end if you wish. The tour can also be arranged privately if you would rather not join a small group, or if our group dates do not work for you. Please contact us for details.

For departures in 2025, please click here for our brand new Moroccan Circuit 2025 itinerary which features the addition of Chefchaouen.

ITINERARY

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Day 1:   Arrive in Marrakech, transfer to hotel

Welcome to Morocco! We will meet you on your arrival in Marrakech airport and transfer you to the hotel. Your time is then free to relax by the hotel pool, or explore Marrakech a little independently if you arrive early. We will then have a welcome meeting with the tour guide at 6.00pm where you will meet your fellow travellers. If you arrive late and miss this meeting then we will make the introductions again tomorrow morning. Dinner is included in the hotel tonight.

OVERNIGHT:

Marrakech hotel

MEALS:

Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 2:   To Casablanca, optional Hassan II Mosque visit

We will leave Marrakech this morning and drive to Casablanca, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean (approx. 3.5hrs). After arriving and having lunch, there is an optional visit to the Hassan II Mosque. This is the largest mosque in Morocco, with the world's tallest minaret (210 metres), and is also the only mosque we know of in Morocco that allows non-muslims to visit. Combined with its spectacular location with the sea waves lapping up against it, this is a highly recommended visit. (Note - visits into the mosque are not allowed during Ramadan). You'll then have some free time to explore the city centre on your own before we have a meeting at 6pm for dinner and to meet fellow travellers joining this tour in Casablanca.

OVERNIGHT:

Casablanca hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 3:   Rabat, Meknes & Volubilis

Our first stop today is the capital of Morocco, Rabat. Strategically located on the Atlantic coast, Rabat was formed way back in the third century BC and we'll visit the Oudaia Kasbah in the oldest part of the city today. We'll alsobe able to see Rabat's most famous landmark, the Hassan's Tower, as well as the Royal Palace.

Next stop is the Berber walled Imperial City of Meknes, a former capital of Morocco. The ramparts rise up to 40m tall, and inside them are many beautiful gardens and intricate gateways. Our final visit of the day is then the UNESCO listed Roman site of Volubilis, which dates back to AD40. This is the largest ancient site in Morocco and has many impressive ruins. We finish our day by making the short drive on to Fes.

OVERNIGHT:

Fes hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 4:   Full day exploring Fes

Considered the largest and oldest medieval city in the world by many, Fes is over 1,200 years old and is famous for its busy Medina. Home to 400,000 inhabitants this is packed with narrow winding streets, mosques, souks and is a heady mix of sights, smells and sounds. We'll spend plenty of time exploring the Medina, seeing various palaces and mosques (which non-Muslims will not be able to enter), and many different crafts on sale. ounds. Our guided otur will also include the Fes's famous dye-pits and tanneries, as well as a traditional Moroccan pharmacy and pottery. Finally we'll return to our hotel to relax after a long day of walking and exploring. This evening there is the option for a traditional meal inside the city with live Moroccan entertainment including music, belly dancing and magicians.

OVERNIGHT:

Fes hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 5:   Atlas Mountains & Sahara Desert Camp

Today is a long driving day, but packed with spectacular scenery as we cross the Atlas Mountains and head towards the mighty Erg Chebbi sand dunes on the edge of the Sahara Desert. During the summer months we'll aim to find a spot for a relaxing swim on the way. After descending out of the hills and arriving at Merzouga, we will transfer to camels and take a trek in to the vast Sahara Desert dunes in time for the sunset. We'll then return to an authentic Berber camp on the edge of the desert and spend the evening enjoying some local food, music before settling in for a hopefully clear night under the Saharan stars.

Please note that to ensure the well being of camels used on this tour, we have the following policies in place:

- Our camels are only used for approximately 1 hour, once per day.
- Camels are free to roam throughout the day and have access to food and water.
- No camels younger than 4 years old are used for camel rides.
- We have a policy of only 1 rider per camel.
- All camels are regularly vet checked.

OVERNIGHT:

Berber camp

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 6:   Todra Gorge

We'll leave the desert sands reluctantly this morning and travel on to the impressive Todra Gorge. With 1,000ft high vertical cliffs surrounding the base of the canyon, the gorge is popular with rock climbers and there is an option to try this during some free time here this afternoon. You can also walk through the Palmerie area or take a hike through the Gorge, enjoying the changing colours of the cliffs as the sun moves across the sky. We will also visit a favourite Berber co-operative today where you can see and buy authentic locally made Berber hand-made rugs, kilims and carpets.

OVERNIGHT:

Todra Gorge hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 7:   Ouarzazate & Ait Benhaddou

We leave the gorge this morning and follow the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs as we make our way past Ouarzazate to Ait Benhaddou. There are several options available today, including a quad biking trip on the desert sands with the Atlas Mountains in the distance, or an optional tour of the world famous film studios just outside Ouarzazate. These have helped create hundreds of famous movies and TV series, inclduing Lawrence of Arabi, The Living Daylights, The Last Temptation of Christ, The Man who would be King, The Mummy, Gladiator, Asterix & Obelisk, Kingdom of Heaven, Kundun, Legionnaire, Hanna, and Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, as well as part of the TV series Game of Throne.

The main highlight today though is our guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou. Sitting on a hill next to the Ouarzazate river, Ait Benhaddou is a fortified city or ksar (a group of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls), with clay built houses and some great examples of traditional Kasbahs crowding together on the hillside protected by the defensive walls. We'll wind our way up through the winding streets to the fortified granary at the top of the hill which affords great views over the surrounding valley and to the high mountains we'll be crossing tomorrow.

OVERNIGHT:

Ait Benhaddou hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 8:   Cross the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech

It is another beautiful morning drive today as we head up and across the High Atlas mountains , en-route stopping at the Tizi N'tichka col, which at 2,260m is the highest pass in North Africa. Snow caps the surrounding peaks for several months of the year, making for spectacular views.

After arriving in Marrakech, your afternoon is free or you can book an optional guided tour of the city with our guide. The tour will feature Marrakech's pride and main landmark, the Koutoubia Tower. A companion tower to the Giralda Tower in Seville and the Tower of Hassan in Rabat, it is said that the sultan who built them had the eyes of his architect cut out to prevent him from ever building a more beautiful tower elsewhere. Our tour of course will also take in Marrakech's UNESCO listed medina, which is packed with stalls packed with spices, crafts, and seemingly everything else under the sun. We'll finish at the Djemaa-el-Fna, which is Marrakech's famous large open square. This really comes to life at night with masses of street food stalls, entertainers and local people packing it for the evening. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax by the hotel pool, explore the markets further, or do some souvenir shopping, before we meet up for a final group evening meal. You may then wish to head back to the square for a final exciting taste of Moroccan life.

OVERNIGHT:

Marrakech hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 9:   Tour ends in Marrakech

Your Moroccan tour with us ends after breakfast today and your time is free until you depart. Our guide or the hotel will help you arrange a taxi for the short drive to the airport, or you can add extra days to explore Marrakech further if you wish.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


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Included:
  • 24hr arrival airport transfer service
  • Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels
  • 1 night in an authentic Berber Desert Camp
  • Transport in AC Minivan, Minibus or Coach
  • Meals: 8 breakfasts,6 dinners including a Berber camp dinner
  • Guided tours of Rabat, Fes, Volubillis & Ait Benhaddou
  • English speaking tour guide, plus driver
  • Sahara camel trek

Excluded:
  • International flights
  • Departure Airport Transfer
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Visas
  • Tipping kitty - USD 55
  • Tour guide tips
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks, snacks & personal expenses
  • Optional activities
Notes:

Note: If you don't have quite so much time, or if it would work better for you to fly into Casablanca instead of Marrakech, then do check our Moroccan Highlights tour which runs alongside this trip but is a day shorter.

Related Tours

If you are looking for a tour and not finding what you are looking for, have a look at our best other related tours to check out for your travel plans. At Encounters Travel, we offer a variety of tours to suit your needs. So sit back, relax, and let us help you plan the perfect getaway.

Dates and Prices

This tour has regular small-group departures running throughout the year. We can also arrange the tour privately for you starting on any other dates. Please contact us for details and prices.

Start Date
End Date
Price (P/P)
Offer price
Note

9th of Nov 2024

17th of Nov 2024

C$1420.00

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23rd of Nov 2024

1st of Dec 2024

C$1420.00

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30th of Nov 2024

8th of Dec 2024

C$1515.00

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On request


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21st of Dec 2024

29th of Dec 2024

C$1515.00

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Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Hôtel El Andalous Lounges & Spa

Hôtel El Andalous Lounges & Spa

Marrakech

Local rating

Our rating

 Hôtel El Andalous Lounges & Spa Hôtel El Andalous Lounges & Spa

coming soon

coming soon

Hotel Arena

Hotel Arena

Fez

Local rating

Our rating

 Hotel Arena Hotel Arena

coming soon

coming soon

Sahara Desert Camp

Sahara Desert Camp

N/A

Local rating

Our rating

 Sahara Desert Camp Sahara Desert Camp

coming soon

coming soon

Hotel Kasbah Amazir

Hotel Kasbah Amazir

Todra Gorge

Local rating

Our rating

 Hotel Kasbah Amazir Hotel Kasbah Amazir

coming soon

coming soon

Hotel La Rose Du Sable

Hotel La Rose Du Sable

Ait Benhaddou

Local rating

Our rating

 Hotel La Rose Du Sable Hotel La Rose Du Sable

coming soon

coming soon

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you‘re visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

Single room supplement

From C$360*

Single room supplement

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This tour is based on twin-share accommodation, with single bookers paired up with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If the final group make-up means that no room share is available, you do not need to pay this supplement. However, if you would like to guarantee yourself a single room throughout the tour, then please add this option to your booking.

Note: Single supplement prices may vary seasonally.

Locally Available Options (Moroccan Circuit)

From On Request *

Locally Available Options (Moroccan Circuit)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s



The following options are available to arrange locally, while you are on the tour. Payment should be made through your tour guide.

  • Guided city tour of Marrakech (approx. 3 hours = 200 DH)
  • Hammam spa in Marrakech (prices from 150 DH)
  • Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (130 DH)
  • Dinner and an Evening’s Entertainment in Fes (300 DH)
  • Rock Climbing in Todra Gorge (1 hour = 250 DH, 2 hours = 390 DH)
  • Quad Biking in Ouarzazate (prices from 500 DH)
  • Visit to Film Studio in Ouarzazate (80 DH)

DH = Moroccan Dirham.
Approximate conversions are: GBP 1 = DH 12 / USD 1 = DH 9.5 / EUR 1 = DH 10.5

Note: As these are booked locally, your contract for the provision of these options is with the local provider, not with Encounters Travel.

Extra day in Morocco - pre-tour

From C$120*

Extra day in Morocco - pre-tour

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option adds an extra day to the start of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability). Your airport arrival transfer is still included. Prices shown are per person and based on two people sharing.

Note: Single room and peak season supplements apply.

Extra day in Morocco - post-tour

From C$120*

Extra day in Morocco - post-tour

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option adds an extra day to the end of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability). Your airport departure transfer is not included, but can be easily arranged through your hotel or with the help if your tour guide. Prices shown are per person and based on two people sharing.

Note: Single room and peak season supplements apply.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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  1. Accommodation

We use good quality hotels rated at the Moroccan 3 and 4-star level on this tour, plus a night in the desert. Here we stay at a simple, traditional Berber camp on the edge of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. This is a great spot to enjoy sunrise and sunset over the Sahara. Accommodation is in a large shared Berber tent, or you can take your mattress outside and sleep under the stars. Blankets are provided but we recommend that you bring a sleeping bag for the colder winter months from November to April. Shared western-style flushing toilets are available. 
Local hotel star ratings may vary slightly from international standards. Accommodation is based on double or twin en-suite rooms with air conditioning. All couples will be given a private double room.
Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing and optional single supplement charges for solo travellers on this tour (please note that the tent remains shared whilst in the desert when selecting the single room supplement option).


  2. Transport

Our trips can feature a mix of different transport options. We want you to feel like you’re really experiencing the country you’re travelling through, but at the same time we want you to finish journeys refreshed enough to enjoy the next stage of the tour. The terrain, route taken and public transport options in Morocco mean that we use air conditioned private vehicles throughout this tour. These include AC minivans, minibuses or small coaches, appropriate to the size of the group. We always aim to leave a few spare seats to ensure it is comfortable for everyone. 


  3. Transfers

Many of our Morocco tours include a 24-hour airport meet & assist service in Casablanca/Marrakech airports (depending on the exact itinerary), your arrival and departure airport-hotel transfers and all other transfers. Some tours however many not include airport transfers, please check the tour inclusions/exclusions for information on which transfers are included on your specific trip. 

Where transfers are included, these are only included in our tour prices on the first and last day of the set tour itinerary. We will be happy to arrange transfers on any additional days if you book your hotel room with us. If you make your own arrangements for additional accommodation at either the beginning or the end of the tour then you will need to arrange your own airport transfers on these days.

On our Shoestring group tours we do offer optional hotel upgrades. This may mean that additional pick-up and drop-offs are required each day. We do endeavour to ensure that all hotels used are close to each other and to streamline and time arrangements to limit any extra driving time as much as possible.


  4. Group Makeup / Tour Leader / Guides

We are committed to maintaining small groups wherever possible as we feel this gives everyone in the group the best chance to get to know their fellow travellers and to hear and make the most of their guide. This tour therefore has a maximum size of 16 people. 
The minimum number of travellers required for the tour to run is 2.  

This is not a Family tour, and we therefore set the minimum age for travellers to join the tour at 15. There is no maximum age limit, but travellers need to be moderately fit and mobile. 

An English speaking guide will accompany the group throughout the tour, along with the driver. We may also use specialist local guides to give extra information at some of the sites visited during the tour. 
At Encounters Travel we aim to only use local Moroccan guides and drivers. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing and many people describe our Moroccan guides as one of the highlights of their holiday.

We may share this tour with travellers booking through other operators. 


  5. Entrance Fees

The tour price includes entrance fees to all the tourist sites mentioned in the itinerary.  You will need to cover the cost of entrance to any other extra sites that you may wish to visit.


  6. International Flights

We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don’t include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to suggest flights to go with the tour. Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we’ll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from.

Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour. Airport transfers on any days before or after the main tour will incur a supplement. Our Morocco tours either start/finish in Marrakech (RAK) or Casablanca (CMN) airports.

Some packages on our website are sold as flight inclusive and in this event you will see the departure airport listed on the Dates & Prices section. Airlines may vary on these packages, and baggage fees may be subject to an extra fee. Where these are shown on our website, prices are correct at the time of quoting, but are subject to continued availability of the fare used. Prices will be reconfirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide the flight times and airline details before tickets are issued. 
Flight inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled for reasons such as Covid-19, in which case the airlines are more flexible. More flexible ticket options, as well as Premium Economy and Business Class tickets are available on request for an additional supplement. Any changes made to flight inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline rules on your ticket. 

Check in times for international flights to Morocco are generally 2 or 3 hours before departure depending on the airline - we recommend you aim to get to the airport 3 hours before departure to allow for any delays en-route and in passing through security checks. Online check in is available with most airlines from 24 hours before departure, though low-cost airlines may allow this straight after booking. Seat selection can be done at the point of checking in, either online or at the airport, or by calling the airline direct.

We do also sometimes advertise flight inclusive packages from selected airports. 

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Traveling by air is an amazing way to explore the world, but flights also contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that impact the environment. By considering the airline's CO2 emissions when you choose your flight, you can help minimize your travel footprint.

When selecting your international flights and airline, we do therefore recommend that you try and also take into account the flight CO2 emissions. Some airlines and flight search websites (eg. Google Flights, Skyscanner) do publish this information, so you can compare between your flight options and make an informed decision. Thankfully, many airlines are working towards sustainability efforts, and choosing a greener option allows you to contribute to positive change while still enjoying your incredible adventure.


  7. Money

The local currency in Morocco is the Dirham.  We recommend you bring some cash in a hard currency (US Dollars, GB Pounds, Euros) and a good ATM card. Most major currencies can be converted at most banks, but it's not wise to carry too much.  Euros and US Dollars are welcomed more than GB Pounds. Travellers cheques are not easily exchanged. It can be awkward outside of Marrakech to find an ATM machine that takes your card as many Moroccan banks have ATMs that only work with Moroccan cards.  Don't put your card in an ATM unless you see the symbol that matches your card on the machine, as you might lose your card! We also suggest trying to avoid using Post Office ATMs.  In some smaller towns there are no ATMs that take foreign cards, so be sure you get enough cash to carry you until the next major city. BCM seems to be the best bank, accepting foreign cards in most of their ATMs. 

While in Morocco you will need sufficient funds to cover meals not included in the itinerary, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, tips and personal expenses such as laundry. These should generally all be paid for in Moroccan Dirham. It is difficult to recommend a level of personal spending money which will suit everyone as this can differ greatly, but as a guideline, we would suggest allowing USD 15-25 per person per day as a minimum. Allow more if you plan on doing lots of shopping, or buying many alcoholic drinks.


  8. Tipping

Tipping and Haggling is an accepted and usual part of life in Morocco and other countries in the region. Wages for service staff are very low and tips are a necessary supplement to meagre incomes. If you are visiting from a country where this is not the case, then we have given some guidelines below which will hopefully prove helpful. .

Tipping Kitty
On our Small Group Tours we implement a Tipping Kitty for your convenience and to remove the hassle of being asked for tips by main people you may come across during the tour. This kitty will be collected in US Dollars cash at the start of the tour, and administred by your tour guide. You may ask for information on who they are tipping along the way if you wish as often they will do it out of sight for politeness. However, the tipping kitty amount covers people like hotel porters, hotel waiters, local guides for city tours, airport drivers, Berber camel herders and restaurant tips.It does not cover your main tour guide. 
Please check the 'Not Included' section of the tour notes for details of the tipping kitty amount for your tour. This amount is payable per person (for adults only - children on family tours do not need to pay it). 
This tipping kitty system works well on small group style tours. However, due to the different numbers of people travelling, we do not use it on our Shoestring or Private/Tailor-made tours. 

Other tips
Your main tour guide is not included in our Tipping Kitty. On group tours we suggest you budget around USD 2-4 per person per day to cover the main guide's tip, subject to your personal budget, and your satisfaction with the level of service provided. On private/tailor-made tours we recommend you budget a bit higher. 
Throughout your trip you may at times also have a local guide in addition to your main guide. These are covered in the Tipping Kitty on our small group tours, but on other tours we suggest budgetting around USD2-3 per per day. The same applies to drivers on our Shoestring and Private/Tailor-made tours. 
In local markets, and basic restaurants you can leave the loose change. For more up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of the bill. 

Haggling
Haggling is a traditional necessity, so never pay too much regard to initial prices. Instead fix an item's value in your mind then negotiate towards it unhurriedly (Moroccans never rush their bargaining), and don't be afraid to simply walk away if the price isn't right. However, if you do mention a price, then you should be prepared to pay it or risk causing offence. 


  9. Time
The time in Morocco is the same as GMT (plus 0 hours). Daylight saving adjustments are generally applied between the end of March and the end of October, making the time GBP plus 1 hour. During this period the time may revert back to GMT during Ramadan. Exact dates vary from year to year and sometimes the changes may be scrapped altogether.

  10. Passports and Visas

Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities. We recommend that you contact your closest Moroccan consulate or embassy for current information for your nationality.

Currently, many nationalities (including USA, Canada, UK, European, Australian, New Zealand) do not need to obtain a visa to enter Morocco as long as your stay is for less than 3 months. Other nationalities should check with their local consulate.


  11. Health and Vaccinations

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:

South Africa: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Namibia: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Botswana: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted or travelled through an infected area.
Zimbabwe: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Zambia: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Malawi: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Tanzania: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Kenya: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Uganda: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Sudan: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area. A certificate may also be required for those departing Sudan.
Morocco: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria not normally present. Yellow Fever certificate not required.

The above information can change at short notice. For up to date health information & vaccination requirements we recommend that you contact your medical practitioner or a travel clinic.

Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting.

Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation is often required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate organised in advance and with you and to hand during the trip.

Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have.
If you are travelling on an Overland tour or your trip includes wildlife safaris then please bear in mind that you may be travelling on bumpy roads and/or rough ground for several hours at a time. This can be very uncomfortable or painful if you have a bad back, and make such conditions worse. Please contact us if you have any concerns.


  12. Voltage

Sockets are two round pronged and 220 volts (Type C/E). Universal adaptors are available in most airport shops if you don't have one already. Standard European adapters will work fine, though sometimes they may feel a little loose in the sockets. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc. Hair dryers are normally available on request from the hotel reception if not in your room already. If you have US appliances (110 volts) you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter.


  13. What to take

Luggage: Small or medium sized suitcases, rucksacks or fabric holdalls are all fine to bring with you to Morocco. You should also bring a small daypack/bag to take out during the day. Your main luggage will often be left in the hotel during your sightseeing trips - you will not need to carry it far, and there are nearly always hotel porters to assist.

Luggage limits: There is no luggage limit for this tour. However, most airlines restrict you to between 20kg and 25kg for your hold luggage and between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage. Please check with your airline before travelling to the airport.

Clothing: The Moroccan climate varies according to season and region. The coast has a warm, Mediterranean climate tempered on the eastern coast by southwest trade winds. Inland areas have a hotter, drier, continental climate. In the south of the country, the weather is very hot and dry throughout most of the year, though temperatures can drop dramatically at night, especially in desert and mountains and in the months of December and January. Rain falls from November to March in coastal areas, and the rest of the country is mostly dry with high temperatures in summer and a cooler climate in the mountains. Marrakech and Agadir enjoy an average temperature of 21°C (70ºF) in the winter. So, depending the time of year you are visiting you should pack for both hot and cooler conditions. Modesty rates highly in Morocco, especially for women, so to respect the local culture & people, please ensure all clothes are loose fitting and not revealing. Shorts (not hot-pants) are OK in tourist sites, as are T-shirts, but these should not show too much bare flesh (we suggest that your shoulders should remain covered). In the centre of towns and cities outside tourist areas, and when visiting any mosques, legs and arms should be covered.

Other items: If your tour includes a Berber desert camp then all bedding is provided. However, as sand has a nasty habit of getting everywhere, for comfort, we recommend bringing a light sleeping sheet or sleeping bag liner all year round, and a light sleeping bag in the winter months (November to February) when it can get very cold in the desert. We also recommend you bring a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, money belt, small torch, camera & charger.


  14. Booking & Payment

If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


  15. Financial Security

We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


  16. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). More information...

You may arrange your own insurance, or you can take advantage of a comprehensive policy that we can arrange for you through Endsleigh Insurance which has been designed to be suitable for our tours. The policy is available to travellers of all nationalities and you do not need to live in the UK  to take out the policy. For full details of cover provided, prices and to apply for one of our policies, please complete travel insurance application form.
Note: Any country that borders the Mediterranean is considered as 'Europe' for the purposes of travel insurance (including Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco). If you are doing a tour that visits one country in 'Europe' and one that is 'Worldwide' (for example, an Egypt and Jordan tour), then you need a 'Worldwide' policy. When completing the form you should enter your travel dates including any extra days involved in overnight flights or connecting travel between your home and the tour. Our policies are not able to cover any extra time or activities other than your tour and options booked with us and your travel to & from home.

Note - to comply with insurance sales regulations, our travel insurance policies are only available to customers booking directly with us. If you have booked through a travel agent you will need to arrange your own insurance.

If your tour includes car hire, ior if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable. Details about our own policies cover levels are given on our website


  17. Responsible Tourism

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


  18. Follow Us Online

You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


  19. Before you travel

It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign


  20. Reduce Plastic Waste with Water-to-Go Filter bottles

Traveling responsibly means minimizing plastic waste, but staying hydrated on the go is essential. At Encounters Travel we are committed to reducing single-use plastics, which is why we've partnered with Water-to-Go. Their portable filtration system removes over 99.9% of contaminants from any non-saltwater source, turning even questionable water sources into safe drinking water.

Given that tap water is un-safe to drink in many of the countries in which we operate, we recommend purchasing a Water-to-Go bottle prior to departure. This will help you avoid the use of single use plastic bottles and keep you hydrated on the go.

Save big! Get a huge 25% off your Water-to-Go bottle and other Water-to-Go products (such as filters, lids, and carriers). Use code ENCOUNTERS25 at checkout (valid in the UK, USA and Canada).

How Water-to-Go Technology works:

  • Their reusable, BPA free water bottles contain their own unique 3-in-1 filtration technology effectively providing clean safe drinking water from any non-salt water source around the world.
  • Three different (1 traditional and 2 nano) technologies are combined in one filter cartridge to remove up to 99.9999% of microbiological contaminants in water.

The three technologies used in a Water-to-Go filter are:

  • Mechanical filtration – A tiny pore size, so small contaminants can’t fit through.
  • Electrical – A positive charge reduces the pore size even further and attracts contaminants like a magnet, trapping them inside the filter.
  • Activated Carbon – Unlike most carbon based filters, instead of using adhesives to glue the carbon particles together, (which vastly reduces the carbon’s efficiency) it is contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours. Try filtering water from your tap at home and taste the difference!

Water-to-Go filter bottles deliver safe, healthy water worldwide

  • Water-to-Go filters remove bacteria, viruses, waterborne disease, protozoa, heavy metals such as lead as well as harmful chemicals.
  • Their filters remove Chlorine and Fluoride from tap water.
  • The filter will eliminate harmful contaminants from the water but allow beneficial minerals such as sodium and magnesium to pass through leaving you with the healthiest water possible.
  • Water-to-Go filters have been independently tested against internationally recognised standards by industry specialists including The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (UK), BCS Laboratories (USA), Bangalore Test House (India) and IMI (China).

Use Water-to-Go products and you’ll be healthier, wealthier and helping to make the world a better place!

  • Depending on filter size, each Water-to-Go filter is able to replace 260 or 400 single-use plastic water bottles!
  • They ensure you have access to safe water anywhere in the world without ever having to buy environmentally damaging bottled water.
  • Their water bottles deliver safe, clean drinking water at just 5p per litre.
  • The filter membrane is biodegradable and the shrouds are recyclable.
  • The water bottles are used and approved by everyone from backpackers to commuters, gym users to expecting mums. Perfect for everyday, outdoor and travel.

Reviews

POSTS FROM OUR BLOG Moroccan Circuit

Need some travel inspiration or looking for some handy travel tips? Our blog provides excellent insight into our travel destinations - from tour updates to country guides, packing lists to little known things to do, you'll find it all in our travel blog.

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https://ucarecdn.com/a9343fad-36e3-4125-8af8-38176c0262d1/ By: Danniell Saunders 2014-01-20 19:00:00

The Colours of Morocco

In Morocco

Morocco was always one of those exotic destinations that I had dreamed about but never thought I'd get the chance to visit.

https://ucarecdn.com/371e1b76-4214-44ca-88bf-9aa5616277ec/
https://ucarecdn.com/371e1b76-4214-44ca-88bf-9aa5616277ec/ By: Martin Hosie 2015-12-29 19:00:00

Morocco Travel Guide

In Morocco

A land of history, tradition and trading, Morocco has long-since captured the imagination of intrepid travellers looking to explore the myths and legends of the great Sahara Desert and the imposing Atlas Mountain range.

https://ucarecdn.com/fa8f441f-ee0d-48ba-8aae-c1df832dab57/
https://ucarecdn.com/fa8f441f-ee0d-48ba-8aae-c1df832dab57/ By: Jarred Manasse 2017-05-17 16:00:00

Best time to visit Morocco

In Morocco

Morocco is right on the doorstep of Europe. In fact, it's so close that you could hop on an hour-long ferry ride from Spain and you'll reach the Moroccan shoreline.