Morocco might make you think of big, busy markets and even bigger deserts, but there’s so much more to this exciting country in north-western Africa than first meets the eye. Take a five-day adventure to some of Morocco’s most colourful spots, with time to check out some of the country’s best beaches and maybe catch a wave (or five) along the way. Taghazout is a magnet for Moroccan chillers thanks to some A-grade Atlantic surf, and the seaside town of Essaouira is made for kicking back and soaking up some cultural vibes. Check out some of Morocco’s best-kept secrets, like the cool beach-side towns where popular musicians spent time in the 60s, and hunt for the best rooftop bars in Marrakech in your free time to watch the sunset over Djemaa el-Fna. This relaxing but highlight-packed introduction to Morocco is sure to leave you wanting more.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Morocco. This adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 4 pm. After your meeting, you may want to head to the famous Djemaa el-Fna. This square is known as one of the largest public spaces in the world – it’s truly an unmissable part of the city. As soon as the sun sets, the square comes to life with henna painters, performers and storytellers sharing the space with street food stands. The smells of the stalls will lure you in, and the tastes will keep you coming back for more. There are all sorts of excellent pastries, fresh juices, teas and even bowls of snail soup to go round, if you’re feeling a little adventurous! As evening falls, you might want to grab dinner or explore the bustling nightlife of the city with your new travel buddies. Marrakech has some great rooftop bars – so find one with a view and order your favourite cocktail.

Day 2: Taghazout

After breakfast this morning, travel to Taghazout. This cool, laidback fishing village has quickly gained a solid reputation as one of the country’s best surfing spots. The waters stay warm all year round, and the surf is top-notch for both rookies and adept wave riders (so there’s no excuse not to catch some rolling waves). After getting your fill of the beautiful local beaches, maybe ask your leader for the best spots for a seafood dinner, before spending the night at a local surf camp.

Day 3: Taghazout

Kick off your adventures in the sleepy town of Taghazout with an early morning yoga session, to help you relieve any tension before diving into the water once again. Oddly enough, the skills required for surfing and yoga tend to complement each other, through concentration, flexibility and balance. Good news, if you were planning on hitting the waves again today! Don’t know how to ride a board or didn’t get the chance yesterday? No stress – today includes a half-day surfing course to teach you the basics, and if you already know the ropes, there’s always time to refine your skills in unfamiliar territory.

Day 4: Essaouira

Get up early today if you want to catch the sunrise, then travel to the old fishing town of Essaouira. Along the way, stop by a female-led cooperative specialising in Argan production. Learn about how these women extract the Argan from the trees, watch the beans being roasted and pressed, then taste the Argan oil and paste, all made right here! Arrive at your destination – a place where the medina brushes up against the Atlantic Ocean. The name of the town translates to ‘little picture’ – so get your camera ready! It’s safe to say you’ll be taking lots of snaps during your time in this picturesque place. Join a local guide for a walking tour through the old medina, Jewish mullah, port and by the skala (sea wall). Then head out to taste some street food, you’ll get to try harira (soup), mesman (flatbread), Moroccan sweets and sample olive oil and honey.

Day 5: Marrakech

Chat with locals on a shared bus ride back to Marrakech. With no activities planned after arriving, you’re free to leave at any time. Depart from the bus station or walk back to the hotel with your leader and depart from there. If you wish to extend your adventure, there are a range of optional activities to get to know the city better. Why not become a Moroccan MasterChef in an Urban Adventure’s cooking masterclass with a local guide? Journey through the souks of Marrakech and shop for the best ingredients before learning the insider tricks on how to whip up a deliciously authentic tagine in a classic riad setting while getting to know the family that lives there. To find out more about the Tajine Cookery Class, visit urbanadventures.com. If you need to organise additional accommodation tonight, just speak to your booking agent.

Departure Dates