Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira



Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira
Guided
On this hiking tour of Morocco along ancient caravan routes, the bread and honey are fresh, but the hospitality is centuries old.
View This TourDiscover Morocco
Stretching from its many Atlantic ports east through the Atlas Mountains, Morocco is home to an incredible range of trekking experiences for walkers and hikers of all ages and abilities. The High Atlas region in the center of the country spans dry tracts of savannah that offer some of the most dramatic and beautiful hiking you’ll find in all of Africa.
Hike across well-worn trails through the giant rock formations of the M’Goun Massif Traverse as it drops down to the Tessaout river valley giving way to views of far-reaching, untouched landscapes that seem plucked from prehistoric times. Traipse through the once-volcanic trails of Sirwa that cross through the Berber villages and their famed flat-topped stone cottages.
Ancient villages like Taliouine, recognizable by its surrounding fields of bright purple saffron fields against the otherwise arid landscape, have been welcoming visitors for centuries. Here you’ll pass through groves of walnut trees and fields of corn and barley, and are likely to get a greeting from one of the region’s many sheep and goat herders. Relish Morocco’s far-reaching culinary tradition with dishes like zaalouk—fresh eggplant, tomatoes, and garlic seasoned with locally grown spices—or makouda—deep-fried potatoes accompanied by spicy sauces that are a street food staple across Moroccan cities and towns.

Country Highlights
- Journey on foot or via camel through the Atlas Mountains, abutting the endless sands of the Sahara.
- See how Berber villages have made a life on this wild terrain for centuries.
- Ascend to the peak of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in Africa, for sweeping views of Morocco’s diverse terrain.
- Explore the lush rainforests of the Azzaden Valleys to view the magnificent waterfalls of the Tazaghart plateau.

Hot, Spicy, Sweet & Tart
Tagine—a range of Moroccan stews named for the clay vessel in which they are cooked—has evolved across years with varying cultural influences. From the classic combination of lamb with dried prunes to a spicy sampling of tomatoes, lime, and cilantro, this quintessential Moroccan culinary tradition cannot be missed.

Bustling Medinas
The twisting, turning alleys of the medina are the historic soul of every Moroccan city. Many, in fact, still house a communal bread oven. At nearby souks—traditional Moroccan outdoor markets—you can survey wares from tanners, herbalists, farmers, and metal workers.

“The Little Rampart”
Essaouira, the small fortress city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, has been an international destination for artists, musicians and bohemians since the 1960’s, when it inspired visitors such as Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens. Brimming with galleries and cafes and street musicians, it’s also home to miles of beaches inhabited by kite fliers, walkers, and children playing football.
Expert Local Guides
Experience your destination like an insider with people who call it home.

Saida Ezzahoui
A native of the former imperial city of Fès, Saida Ezzahoui is a licensed guide of this fascinating city and was one of the first female guides to accompany groups along trails through her beloved Atlas Mountains. With a degree in English Literature and fluency in three languages, Saida personifies the modern, yet traditional, Moroccan woman.
Stories from Morocco
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Moroccan cuisine is a dizzying blend of Arab spices, African traditions, and ancient nomadic cooking techniques. And while some might argue as to which delicious dish is the best, you...
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Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira

Morocco: Marrakech, Foothills of the High Atlas & Essaouira
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